Case: Rick Bob

Rick Bob is a partner in a public accounting practice. His practice is popular with the local community because his senior partner is local. One of Ricks clients, an elderly businessmen called Rob Greenwater insists that Rick always comes to his office to discuss his financial arrangements. While there, Rob always insists on sharing coffees with Rick while they discuss business.

Rick has realised for a long time that this is normal with this client. He is very proud of his firm, his staff and the fact that the firm was still earning good fees. Part of Ricks success is the effort he has put into nurturing the relationship with Rob. Due to this relationship Rob always felt comfortable with Rick and his accountants.

However, there was a negative side to this approach. Ricks firm has become more dependent on Robs business. Rick observed that Rob has been becoming more demanding, and Rick is concerned about the issue. In the past Rob overruled Ricks accountants on small matters. Currently one junior accountant from Ricks firm identified a window dressing issue in Robs accounts and discussed the issue with Rob. Rob was unhappy about it and called Rick and demanded that Rick should accept the accounts presented by Rob. Rob tells Rick that he has an exciting new business venture in the pipeline and will tell him all about it at his next visit and is planning to appoint Ricks accounting practice to manage the accounts of the new venture as well. Rob insists that Rick visit his house for dinner one night, where he will discuss the new business in detail.

What you have to do?

Part B: Using an ethical decision-making model (500 words max)

Take Rick Bob through the AAA decision-making model step-by-step and arrive at the best ethical outcome for him.