In this Nov 20, 2019, file photo, Recording Academy President/CEO Deborah Dugan participates in the 62nd Grammy Awards nominations news conference at Studio 43 at CBS Broadcast Center in New York. In a move announced late Jan 16, 2020, the Recording Academy has placed Dugan on administrative leave following an allegation of unspecified misconduct by a senior leader. (CHARLES SYKES / INVISION / AP)

The Recording Academy, whose members choose the Grammy winners, has placed its president and chief executive, Deborah Dugan, on administrative leave with immediate effect, it said on Thursday, just days before the Jan. 26 awards ceremony.

Board chairman Harvey Mason Jr. will serve as interim president and chief executive until the investigation is complete

The action was taken “in light of concerns raised to the board of trustees, including a formal allegation of misconduct by a senior female member of the Recording Academy team,” the organisation said in an email statement.

ALSO READ: Rap artists, women take center stage at Grammys

Board chairman Harvey Mason Jr. will serve as interim president and chief executive until the investigation is complete, it said, adding that two independent third-party investigators had been retained to look into the accusations.

Dugan took the helm on Aug. 1 as the organisation’s first female president and chief executive.

Reuters could not immediately reach Dugan or a representative to seek comment.

READ MORE: Grammys fashion include sparkles, sequins and statement hats