An employee review at EY has revealed claims of bullying, harassment and overwork. 

In an internal review, staff at the big four consulting firm EY have voiced their grievances, shedding light on the realities of working within the company. 

A voluntary and anonymous survey, complemented by consultation measures across EY's Oceania region, has revealed an unsettling pattern of bullying, harassment, and overworking, leaving many employees feeling trapped and afraid to report misconduct.

Reports say that more than 4,000 workers and partners participated in the online survey, while the firm also conducted 216 “listening sessions” and 21 “informant interviews” and received 159 written submissions, all aimed at improving the workplace. 

The findings expose a litany of complaints ranging from oppressive management practices and excessive work hours to issues of corporate culture.

While the report did acknowledge that “the vast majority of staff and partners feel safe” and believe that “people behave in a respectful manner towards others” within the firm, it was clear that these positive experiences were not universally shared. 

Female employees and minority groups, in particular, expressed feeling marginalised and less included in EY Oceania.

Employees described an intense work environment that often demanded well over 80 hours per week. This gruelling schedule left many feeling overwhelmed and unable to maintain a work-life balance, with some admitting they worked late into the night to meet unrealistic expectations.

Furthermore, instances of bullying and harassment were shockingly prevalent. 

Workers detailed experiences of verbal abuse, intimidation, and even sexual harassment, creating a toxic atmosphere that some felt unable to escape. 

The fear of reprisal from higher-ups has resulted in many employees remaining silent about these issues, further perpetuating the cycle of abuse.

Alarming instances of sexism and racism within the organisation were also reported. 

Female employees cited a lack of tolerance for different life experiences and spoke about gendered language used by partners that demeaned women. 

Meanwhile, racist incidents targeting individuals based on their cultural backgrounds were concerningly common.

Leadership within the company faced criticism as well. 

Many employees expressed feeling unsupported by senior management, highlighting a lack of empathy and understanding for urgent and time-sensitive issues. The emphasis on billables and bottom-line results sometimes overshadowed the well-being of employees, who felt undervalued and dispensable.

The report calls for immediate action to address these systemic issues.