Answer: Here an executive grapples with the delicate balance between transparency, which relies on the free flow of information, and accountability, ensuring decision-makers fulfill their duties. This case study delves into the age-old tension of meeting both professional obligations and ethical considerations, demanding consistent standards across all stakeholders

Stakeholders Involved:

• Executive of national bank
• Bank
• Colleague
• Bank Manager
• Father of colleague

(a) Ethical issues involved:

• Confidentiality and Privacy: The bank manager's decision to release funds from a dormant account raises concerns about the confidentiality and privacy of account holders

• Abuse of Authority: The bank manager has used his position to facilitate the release of funds without proper authorization or ethical considerations.

• Fairness and Equal Treatment: The preferential treatment given to the colleague in accessing funds may raise concerns about fairness and equal treatment of all bank colleagues.

• Transparency: In this situation, the bank manager as well as colleagues are not transparent about their actions.

• Accountability: The colleague and the bank manager do not seem to be accountable to higher authorities as well as to rules and regulations of the bank. The bank manager has flouted obligations of his/her position.

• Professional Integrity: The apparent breach of professional integrity by both the bank manager and colleague raises ethical concerns regarding their adherence to the bank's policies and principles.

(b) Evaluation of the behaviour of the bank manager from an ethical point of view.

Positive Aspect:

• Compassionate and empathic: The bank manager's compassion and willingness to help in a medical emergency demonstrate a humane approach and also foster a caring workplace environment.
• Responsibility towards Bank: The bank manager’s insistence on repayment reflects a sense of responsibility towards the bank and adherence to financial accountability.

Negative Aspect: 

• Lack of Authorization: Facilitating the release of funds from a dormant account without proper authorization or adherence to standard procedures raises ethical concerns.
• Confidentiality and Transparency Breach: The promise of confidentiality could be seen as a positive aspect, but it raises concerns about transparency and adherence to banking regulations.
• Breach of Professional Ethics: Using bank resources, even for compassionate reasons, may be viewed as unprofessional and contrary to established ethical standards.
• Precedent Setting: The behavior may set problematic precedents, leading to inconsistent decision-making and perceptions of favoritism.
• Erosion of Trust: The perception of partiality could erode trust within the organization, contrary to principles of impartiality and fairness.

(c) My reaction to the situation

• Appreciate Compassion: Acknowledge and appreciate the bank manager's compassion and the positive outcome of supporting a colleague in need.
• Legal Compliance: I would recommend that the colleague and the bank manager seek legal advice to ensure that the actions taken are in compliance with banking regulations and do not expose the bank or individuals involved to legal risks.
• Advocacy for Transparency and Accountability:
• Encourage the colleague to ensure full transparency in the repayment process and adhere to any legal or ethical obligations associated with the use of the funds.
• As an executive, I would emphasize the importance of strict transparency and accountability measures in the bank's board meetings.
• The bank's reputation hinges on maintaining the trust of its customers and stakeholders, and any deviation from established protocols can erode that trust.
• Discourage Secrecy:
• I would propose a clear policy that disallows the secretive authorization of funds to employees, irrespective of their position in the hierarchy.
• This ensures a fair and consistent approach to financial matters within the institution.
• Employee Health Insurance:
• Recognizing the unpredictability of health crises, I would push for the introduction of health insurance accounts sponsored by the bank for all employees and their immediate families.
• This not only acts as a safeguard for the employees but also reduces the chances of financial improprieties due to personal emergencies.
• Medical Emergency Fund:
• As a long-term solution to prevent such incidents, I would advocate for the establishment of a medical emergency fund for all employees.
• Such a fund could be accessed in dire circumstances, ensuring that employees don't resort to potentially unethical means to address personal crises.
• Compassionate Accountability:
• While the actions of the colleague and the manager were driven by desperation, it's crucial to hold them accountable.
• However, keeping in mind their intent and the unique circumstances, I would refrain from pressing legal charges, opting instead for internal measures to ensure repayment and prevent recurrences.
• Seek Guidance: If unsure about the appropriate course of action, seek guidance from higher authorities or the bank's ethical committee to address the situation in a manner consistent with ethical standards.

The objective of the bank manager to help the colleague has been done in a good way, however, against transparency and accountability. However, it would have been better if such action were followed according to the rules and regulations of the organisation.