Blue Origin CEO Bob Smith sent an email companywide to employees Jeff Bezos“Venture” is an internal response to claims of a toxic workplace and discriminatory work environment, made in an essay by an ex-employee

Published Thursday was the essay signed by former Blue Origin head of employee communications Alexandra Abrams. It stated that 20 employees, current or former, had endorsed it. They were not named. Two instances of sexual harassment by Blue Origin senior leaders were cited. The company also stated that it insists on strict confidentiality agreements and raised concerns about safety and environmental impacts.

CNBC received Smith’s email in which he sought to “reassure the company” that Blue Origin’s satellites and rockets were safe. He also stated that there is “no tolerance whatsoever for harassment or discrimination.”

Smith stated in an email that Thursday, “I encourage and welcome any member of Team Blue” to contact me directly if they have concerns about any topic.”

CNBC reached out to the space company for comments on Smith’s email.

Below is Smith’s complete email.

Blue team

Today you might have observed that certain claims were levelled against our team.

It is difficult to listen to any kind of criticism. To discern what is valuable and what not, it takes reflection and humility.

Particularly difficult and distressing for me is hearing claims made that try to describe our whole team in a manner that does not align with my daily experience at Blue Origin.

One of our Blue Leadership Principles says that leaders are open-minded and humble in their convictions. Since different views can result in new ideas, leaders value diversity. Their openness enables them to trust those around them – and to earn the trust of others in turn.”

This principle was published and we wrote it. We will continue to be self-critical today and in the future.

We reflect upon what we could learn from each other and make improvements, but I also want to remind the team of a few key points.

First, First Human Flight certified our New Shepard vehicle through an extensive and meticulous process. Anybody who says otherwise is ignorant and completely wrong. This team deserves to be proud of their work and so should we.

Also, it should be stated emphatically that we do not accept any discrimination and harassment. Our employees have many options, including a 24-hour anonymous hotline. Any findings are investigated and acted upon. If there is a new claim of misconduct, it will be promptly investigated. Any member of Team Blue is welcome to contact me at any time with any questions.

Last but not least, we are proud of our amazing team. They do amazing work. We have the most brilliant professionals working in aerospace. We need people who work hard, are committed and passionate about the mission.

This team will continue to grow rapidly, remain focused on their efforts and work together. We will continue to make greater progress, one step at a time.

Gradatim Ferociter,

Bob