Unreasonable Request

Sassybot

I'm a designer for a large public sector owned company.

Yesterday, the CEO asked me to scan in and edit a letter from the company he previously worked for, leaving just the letterhead and signature.

I explained I was unhappy to do this so the CEO asked me to remove the signature. I felt very pressured but did as I was told.

This morning I was again asked to include the signature of the person who I believe is the current CEO of that company. I've also been asked to remove the address, contact number, email address and line about directors which includes my CEO. I'm really unhappy with this and have asked the PA why. The PA has said the CEO just wants to write a reference but I cannot understand why he needs someone else's signature and his previous companies letterhead to do so unless something dodgy is going on.

There is a lot of pressure on me to do this but I am concerned I'm being asked to be part of something that is possibly fraudulent.

Can anyone offer some advise? I'm worried if I do this I could end up in trouble, but if I don't do it the CEO (who my department reports to directly) is going to turn on me.

I was thinking of speaking to our HR department but I'm worried they will say I have to do it even though I know this isn't right.

Comms69

Speak to your union. HR work for your employer.

Sassybot

I don't have a union

Sassybot

I should also point out that that CEO is classing this as a 'favour' as it's not work related.

Comms69

Sassybot wrote: »

I should also point out that that CEO is classing this as a 'favour' as it's not work related.

I know that being owed a favour by the Chief Exec definitely has it's bonuses... just saying

Sassybot

He owes me already for a number of things, including doing his daughter's wedding invitations. So far it's only lead to being asked to do more favours...

Comms69

Sassybot wrote: »

He owes me already for a number of things, including doing his daughter's wedding invitations. So far it's only lead to being asked to do more favours...

Have you asked for anything though?


"Hi X, been meaning to ask; can you authorise a work from home for me for 1 day a week?"

ohreally

I would send him a confirmation email detailing what he want you to do (I'm sure you can word it carefully. I don't know the relationships and dynamics but you could very carefully consider bcc ing in an appropriate person, but tread carefully in doing this.

Sassybot

A couple of things. The latest being a day working from home due to a dodgy timed GP appointment. Was told no.

I've also asked to go on a training course which was turned down and to, at least, have my job title amended as I now look after a team of people. Again, no.

He did bring me in a coffee once though

Seems very one sided AND a bit fraudulent really.

ohreally

Since you're clearly uncomfortable with the situation, is there a reason he can't simply do it himself?

System

Get them to put it in an email. If they refuse, you've got your answer. No - you may be a scapegoat if all goes south.