United Way CEO Steps Down; Claims He Was Bullied, Discriminated Against

Thursday, November 1, 2018 at 10:17 AM

Michael Johnson became the first African-American CEO in organization history when he was hired in July.

Michael Johnson. File photo.

(Cincinnati, Oh.) – The United Way of Greater Cincinnati is looking for a new leader.

CEO Michael Johnson stepped down Wednesday, just days after taking a leave of absence, and months after taking the job, reports WCPO-9. When his was hired in July, Johnson became the first African-American CEO in the organization's history.

His tenure didn't last long as Johnson claimed in a letter to the non-profit’s board that he was being bullied and discriminated against by its chairperson.

A United Way spokesperson stated that the claims of discrimination don’t represent what United Way stands for.

However, Johsnon and United Way have agreed to split "amicably" and Johnson is expected to assist with the leadership transition, as Ross Meyer will step in as interim CEO.

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