Internal investigation challenges high-profile allegations
A former employee of JPMorgan Chase has been accused by sources of filing fabricated sexual harassment allegations against a senior executive after an internal investigation reportedly found no evidence supporting the claims. The allegations were initially brought forward in a lawsuit filed earlier this week under a pseudonym, intensifying scrutiny within the financial sector.
Lawsuit details and withdrawn court filing
The individual identified by sources as Chirayu Rana, 35, now working as a principal at investment firm Bregal Sagemount, had accused executive director Lorna Hajdini, 37, of severe misconduct, including coercion and abuse of authority. The lawsuit included graphic claims, but court documents containing those details were later withdrawn for corrections, raising further questions about the credibility and handling of the case.
Executive denies allegations as firm responds
Through legal counsel, Hajdini firmly denied all accusations, stating she had never engaged in inappropriate conduct and had no connection to the location where the alleged incidents were said to have occurred. Meanwhile, JPMorgan issued a statement emphasizing that a comprehensive internal review—covering emails, phone records, and employee interviews—found no merit in the claims.
Workplace hierarchy contradicts claims
People familiar with the matter said that Hajdini and Rana worked in the same leveraged finance team but did not share a reporting relationship. Hajdini reported to managing director Brandon Graffeo, while Rana was supervised by Jon Wolter. This structure, according to sources, undermines claims that Hajdini had influence over Rana’s compensation or career progression.
Ongoing legal and reputational implications
Rana had previously filed an internal complaint in May 2025, alleging harassment and seeking a financial settlement reportedly in the millions before leaving the firm. However, JPMorgan stated that the complainant declined to participate fully in the internal investigation and failed to provide supporting evidence. Colleagues described Hajdini as a strong performer within the firm, while some expressed concern over the reputational damage caused by the allegations.
The case remains under legal consideration, with broader implications for corporate governance, workplace investigations, and accountability in the financial industry.
