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Rachel Corp has stepped down as CEO of ITN just weeks after the broadcaster became embroiled in a high-profile employment tribunal linked to Dan Walker. She is being replaced by Ian Rumsey, who is currently ITN chief content officer. According to reports, the chief executive left the company following the fallout surrounding claims brought by former Channel 5 News presenter Claudia-Liza Vanderpuije. The presenter, 47, had launched legal action alleging racism, sexism and bullying during her time at the broadcaster while co-hosting alongside Walker. The case was due to be heard at an employment tribunal before a last-minute settlement was reached between both parties.

After more than 30 years at ITN, Corp shared a statement reading: "After a great deal of reflection, I have decided that the time is right for me to step down as CEO and pursue new opportunities. ITN has been a huge part of my life and career for more than three decades, and it has been a privilege to work alongside so many talented colleagues. I am incredibly proud to have led ITN during such a critical period for public service journalism and trusted content in a rapidly changing industry. Ian knows and cares deeply about ITN, and I cannot think of a better person to lead the organisation forward. I am excited for what comes next, and I wish Ian and everyone at ITN every success for the future."

Now, speaking to The Sun, an insider has claimed that senior figures within the organisation were unhappy about the public attention surrounding the row.

They said: "Bosses were deeply uncomfortable about the way the whole debacle played out, with a lot of adverse attention brought to an organisation which prides itself on its reputation and integrity."

The source added: "Even though she didn't instigate the chain of events directly, someone had to take the fall for what happened."

Vanderpuije had fronted programmes with former BBC Breakfast presenter Walker between 2022 and 2023 before leaving the broadcaster.

Her claims reportedly included unfair dismissal, discrimination, harassment and breach of contract.

Legal documents connected to the case alleged she had been subjected to a "sham redundancy" after raising concerns about an alleged toxic workplace culture.

The claims included accusations of racism, sexism, misogyny and bullying within the Channel 5 newsroom. Last month Vanderpuije withdrew her case after what was described as a "mutual agreement" was reached.

Walker had strongly denied wrongdoing and was reportedly prepared to submit more than 50 character witness statements in his defence, including testimony from television figures, journalists and sports stars.

Neither ITN nor Rachel Corp have publicly commented on the reports surrounding her departure. Express.co.uk has approached Corp's representatives for comment.