The individual recently appointed as head of BBC Sport, Mark Hughes, is reportedly causing concern among staff, leading to multiple visits to Human Resources.
In just three months since taking the role, employees have apparently approached HR on four separate occasions, raising issues about his assertive leadership approach.
Beyond concerns about his style, Hughes is also facing criticism for what some perceive as “a slight lack of sports knowledge,” particularly concerning disciplines outside of football.
Hughes transitioned to the BBC in March, having previously served as head of news at the Daily Telegraph.
These internal issues emerge following recent allegations of a difficult work environment, including toxicity and bullying, within the team producing the BBC Breakfast show.
According to an insider, “Mark is a superb journalist and many people like him. He is direct and quite confrontational.”
The source added, “He expects high standards from his team, but some staff members have found this intimidating and have escalated their worries.”
HR is said to be aware of the situation and has engaged with the relevant individuals, though no formal complaints have been officially filed.
While his expertise in football is widely acknowledged, staff members reportedly question his grasp of other sports.
Examples mentioned include his handling of rugby player Danny Care`s retirement from club rugby, which occurred a year after he retired from international play, and an apparent misunderstanding regarding the British and Irish Lions rugby team`s fixture format.
Conversely, another source within the organization believes Hughes is significantly enhancing the depth and exclusivity of stories being reported by BBC Sport.
The BBC itself issued a statement confirming that they have “effective procedures in place to manage any concerns related to the workplace environment.”
