JLL apologises for cultural and leadership failures after sexual harassment probe

Global real estate services giant JLL has publicly apologised and admitted to cultural and leadership failings following an external investigation into its handling of sexual harassment allegations within its Australian business.

The New York-listed company said on Monday that it fully accepted the findings of an independent report by law firm Clyde & Co, which identified serious issues in the firm’s culture, leadership behaviour, and adherence to internal protocols.

JLL’s former Australia and New Zealand CEO, Dan Kernaghan, was dismissed in August for what the company described as “poor judgement” in managing the allegations. Several other employees were also terminated after the misconduct came to light.

In a statement, Richard Bloxam, a member of JLL’s global executive board, said, “We acknowledge there were significant shortcomings in certain areas of our business, especially related to inappropriate behaviours, which were exacerbated by poor executive decision-making and lack of compliance with established policies. For that, we apologise to our people, our clients and the Australian business community.”

The company announced a series of reforms in response to the report, including stronger leadership oversight, clearer governance frameworks, enhanced training, and more transparent internal communication.

JLL has appointed company veteran Luke Billiau—previously head of capital markets—as interim CEO for Australia and New Zealand while it searches for a permanent leader and a new head of HR.

“Our immediate focus is on supporting our people and rebuilding trust with our clients, partners, and stakeholders,” Billiau said. “We are committed to creating a safer, more accountable organisation for the long term.”

The Clyde & Co review involved interviews with more than 50 staff and examined complaints dating back to 2022.