Research by: Sandeep Puri, Bindu Gupta, & Rakesh Singh
Summary
In this case, students analyze the ethical dilemma faced by Jai Prakash Chaubey, the managing director of the pharma company, Pharmakon Biotec Inc. (Pharmakon). Chaubey was informed that Joey Paras, the national sales manager, had falsified her resumé and manipulated the reference check when she applied for the national sales manager position three and a half years ago. After first denying all allegations, Paras later confessed. However, her pregnancy may have complicated the situation for the company. Given that the company had planned to promote her, would firing her be appropriate? Dismissing her could jeopardize the company’s relationship with major customers and five orders totaling over US$20 million. Under these circumstances, how can a company that upholds attitude, skills, and integrity and prides itself on its robust recruitment system balance its core values with potential business impacts and the manager’s well-being?
Learning Objectives
This case is designed for an MBA-level marketing course with a segment on ethics in marketing or a sales management course analyzing ethics in selling. It can also be used to introduce the basic concepts of sales leadership in a leadership course on ethical business conduct.
The learning objectives are as follows:
- Understand the importance of ethical perspectives such as integrity, honesty, and fairness in professional settings.
- Evaluate the potential consequences of unethical actions on various stakeholders including the company, employees, and customers.
- Develop critical thinking and decision-making skills when faced with complex ethical dilemmas.
- Create and implement policies that prevent ethical breaches and promote integrity.
To cite this case: Puri, S., Gupta, B., & Singh, R. (2024). Pharmakon Biotec Philippines: To sack or to save. Ivey ID: W40080. London, Canada: Ivey Publishing.
To access this case: https://www.iveypublishing.ca/s/product/pharmakon-biotec-philippines-to-sack-or-to-save/01tOF000006VevNYAS
