Voting with their feet

Last week, Employers and Manufacturer's Association Chief Executive Alasdair Thompson exposed himself as a sexist dinosaur, then kept on digging, and digging, and digging. The body he represents, the EMA, was left with a clear choice: take strong action against Thompson, or be seen to tacitly endorse his comments. They dithered. And now they're paying the price. Air New Zealand has withdrawn from the EMA over Thomson's comments. Other members may follow. Which is what happens to membership organisations if your chief executive turns your brand toxic and you fail to act: people may no longer wish to be associated with you.