Department of Corrections Launches Inquiries Into Second Senior Executive Following Staff Complaints

The Department of Corrections is investigating a second deputy chief executive following staff complaints about tone and behavior, amid wider bullying allegations.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 8, 2026, 8:21 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

Preliminary Inquiries into Executive Communication

Corrections' chief executive Jeremy Lightfoot confirmed that the department is currently examining a Microsoft Teams message sent by the deputy chief executive in late March. A staff member formally raised concerns with their manager, citing discomfort with the nature of the instructions provided. This follows a February incident where a different staff member was overheard expressing distress regarding the same executive’s communication style. At that time, the acting chief executive intervened, leading to a formal apology from the deputy chief executive.

A Growing Pattern of Leadership Friction

The scrutiny of this unnamed executive follows the recent announcement that another high ranking official, Leigh Marsh, is currently the subject of an external independent investigation. The allegations against Marsh specifically involve bullying and management processes within the employment relationship. With two of the department’s eight deputy chief executives now under official review, questions are being raised about the internal culture and professional standards at the highest levels of the agency, which employs more than 11,000 people across New Zealand.

Regulatory Response and Internal Accountability

Jeremy Lightfoot has emphasized that it is his "clear expectation" for all senior leaders to be mindful and considered in their interactions. The department has established an "Integrity team" to handle such complaints, and the current inquiries will determine whether a formal employment investigation is warranted. Lightfoot noted that while the majority of staff operate with professionalism, the agency has worked to foster a culture where employees feel safe to call out behavior they find uncomfortable, regardless of the rank of the individual involved.