Ethical Dissonance in Client Deliverables

Question

Tell me about a time you identified a potential ethical risk or data integrity issue in a client project that others had overlooked. How did you bring this to the attention of leadership, and what was the outcome for the client relationship?

Accepted Answer

During a 2025 engagement for a financial services client, I noticed that the data model used for risk assessment was inadvertently utilizing proxy variables that could lead to biased lending decisions. The project was near completion, and flagging this risked delaying the 'Go-Live' date. Understanding Deloitte’s 'Shared Values'—specifically 'Lead the Way' and 'Serve with Integrity'—I compiled a brief report demonstrating the long-term regulatory and reputational risks the client would face if the bias went uncorrected. I presented this to my Senior Manager first, then together we approached the client’s Chief Risk Officer. I proposed a two-week 'Bias Mitigation Sprint' to recalibrate the model. While the delay was initially unpopular, the client eventually thanked us for preventing a potential compliance violation that could have resulted in millions in fines. This reinforced the client's trust in Deloitte as a partner that prioritizes their long-term safety over short-term project timelines. It taught me that integrity is the bedrock of professional services.

Ethical Dissonance in Client Deliverables

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