So this is happening to a co-worker of mine.
He spent $1700 out of pocket to go to a conference that our CEO actually suggested to attend. The costs were for conference registration, travel, hotel and maybe $75 of that was food too.
He submitted to be reimbursed as company usually covers these things. The CEO denied it saying that “company doesn't reimburse alcohol expenses”.
Here's the thing, no alcohol reimbursement was requested. Here's the other thing, this guy is Mormon and it is widely known he doesn't drink. So more background, co-worker is an executive and the CEO and him have been butting heads lately over project expectations. Co-worker is a former CEO himself, very professional and knows what he is doing. Needless to say though he's been in the CEO's crosshairs and this is clearly a case of the CEO being vindictive.
What recourse is there (if any) to get the $1700 reimbursed?
Also the CEO doesn't normally even approve reimbursements, Finance dept does. I would have to think he inserted himself into this purposely? Unless there is some rule that if you don't use the company card, personal reimbursement requests go to him perhaps? no idea…..