He also said that he thinks “there is no such thing as unconscious prejudice” and that the concept is ‘complete and utter shit’ – a term that the Daily Mail reported in the video but was widely reported by British media.
A KPMG spokesman said they could not confirm the words Michael used, but they did confirm to CNN that the video published on the Daily Mail was from Monday’s town hall meeting. The spokesman said that Michael was asked at the meeting about some of his personal reflections on a wide range of topics, including life in the lock.
“I’m sorry my words hurt my colleagues and the impact this week’s had on them,” Michael said in a statement on Friday. “In view of that, I consider my position to be untenable and that is why I have decided to leave the firm.”
Councilor Bina Mehta acts as acting chair, and Mary O’Connor, head of clients and markets, has taken on Michael’s day-to-day executive responsibilities.
KPMG has said it will launch a leadership election in due course.
CNN contacted Michael for comment.