It`s all about failure of leadership from the top.

That`s how the Toronto Ombudsman summarizes her report “Unrule(y) Behaviour“, into hiring practices at the Toronto Community Housing Corporation.

Fiona Crean says much of the blame lies with CEO Gene Jones, who felt the human resource policies didn`t apply to him and others took their cue.

She adds the policies created a climate of fear among employees at the largest landlord in the country.

Since Jones took over 18 months ago, 88 staff left, most involuntarily and close to 100 new staff were hired.

In fact, the ombudsman found the day after being appointed, Jones promoted a director to interim VP of Human Resources without receiving resumes, applications or interviewing candidates.

That person was made permanent one month later without a competition.

Crean has made twelve recommendations that the TCHC has accepted.