Rere

Case #3

“The Road to Hell”

1. What was the purpose this meeting between Renalls and Baker?

Baker wanted to talk to Renalls last time before he leaves Caribbean Bauxite. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the complaint of an employee and Renall’s general attitude against European employees. Baker tried to persuade Renall about the importance and contribution of these employees to the company’s success and advised him to leave a better impression in the company.  

2. Was it conducted properly?  If not, what should have been done differently?

I think it was conducted properly but it was also a little bit late. Baker wanted Renall to review his racial prejudice but a few days before he leaves his chair to Renall. Besides he could call other European employees in a separate meeting to learn Renall’s general attitude against them. Besides Baker and Renalls couldn’t be able to break the barriers while discussing the issue which is an important sign of doubt.

3. Renalls sent a follow-up memo to Baker (see below).  Should Caribbean Bauxite just hope this situation cools out over time or should they do something?  What should they do?

In my opinion Caribbean Bauxite should do more than letting it rest and expect the situation to cool over time. Racial discrimination should be considered as a serious  problem and it may damage the company’s overall reputation against public, government and investors if they don’t struggle to change what is believed. So it is important to clarify things and focus on possible solutions.