Police are still investigating the complaints.
In recent months, Xero has engaged Maria Dew KC to review the company’s handling of the 2017 whistleblower complaint, which is now complete.
Today, Xero board chair David Thodey and chief executive Sukhinder Singh Cassidy issued an apology.
“On behalf of Xero and its current board, we unreservedly apologise to Ms Naylor and any former employee whose experience at that time did not reflect the standards we expect at Xero today,” their statement said.
“Xero regrets any historical actions taken, or not taken, that fell short of the expectations and standards we now hold ourselves to.”
Xero chief executive Sukhinder Singh Cassidy.
In their joint statement, they said Xero had made a range of changes to its Code of Conduct and people practices following the 2017 complaint.
It has also introduced “clear policies on workplace relationships” and strengthened its governance and reporting.
“We can always seek to do better,” the statement said.
“These actions build on the changes Xero has already made to its workplace practices over the last eight years and are intended to ensure that our approach continues to reflect leading practice.
“We remain focused on ensuring Xero’s workplace now, and in the future, continues to be a safe, inclusive and respectful environment for every Xero.”
Since Naylor’s allegations were published, several other former staff have come forward alleging inappropriate behaviour from Drury.
A second complainant, referred to as Amy, has alleged Drury made sexual advances when she was an employee at the company.
Amy alleged Drury invited her to his apartment to discuss a job opportunity, but when she arrived, the meeting quickly turned inappropriate.
His former private chef Megan Ruddle become the third woman to allege he made unwanted advances towards her – claiming he repeatedly kissed her on the lips while she worked for him.
Drury founded Xero in 2006 and stepped down as CEO in 2018.
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