Tony Danker, director-general of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), has stepped aside amid an investigation into complaints about his conduct.

The CBI has hired a law firm to investigate allegations against the Belfast-born Mr Danker after a formal complaint was made in January by a female CBI employee alleging “unwanted conduct” which she deemed to be sexual harassment.

Mr Danker, 51, a former chairman of the Union of Jewish Students, who worked for the late chief rabbi, Lord Sacks from 1994 to 1996, has said he will stand down while the investigation into his conduct takes place.

Though there has been only one formal complaint, it is understood that other employees are unhappy that he allegedly had oversight of CBI staff’s personal Instagram profiles.

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Tony Danker pictured with former prime minister Boris Johnson in November 2021 (Photo by Owen Humphreys / POOL / AFP via Getty Images)

Danker reportedly continued in his role after a formal complaint was filed, and he represented the business lobbying organisation at public events and in the media, including a conference last Wednesday that hosted Education Secretary Gillian Keegan, who delivered the keynote address.

Responding to the Guardian, which initiated inquiries about the formal complaint, Mr Danker said: “It’s been mortifying to hear that I have caused offence or anxiety to any colleague. It was completely unintentional, and I apologise profusely”.

He added: “The CBI is the employers' organisation and I am very proud to be its leader.

“We always strive for the highest standards. I therefore support the decision we've taken to review any new allegations independently. And I have decided to step aside while the review takes place and will cooperate fully with it”.