The board of directors of American Apparel this week ousted its controversial chairman Dov Charney and notified him of its intent to terminate his employment as president and chief executive officer in connection with several sexual harassment lawsuits against him.

“We take no joy in this, but the board felt it was the right thing to do,” said Allan Mayer, who has been a board member since the company went public in 2007 and has served as its lead independent director for the past three years.

Effective immediately, the board appointed Mayer and David Danziger as co-chairmen to replace Charney as chairman. The board also appointed John Luttrell as interim CEO. Luttrell, who has been with American Apparel since February 2011 and currently serves as CFO, will continue in those positions as well.

In a statement, the company said the termination will be effective following a 30-day cure period required under the terms of Charney's employment agreement.

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