Bad mouthing an employee who wants to leave is hardly logical. Presumably if he/she is causing a problem then (as a Chief Pilot) you would rather they just left?
Of course, if pilot retention is a problem for your company bad working practices may be a factor.
Good selection procedures exist that don't require a patronage culture. For good employers hearsay should not necessary.
I started this thread and thought it would be popular. Its at the back of a lot of pilots minds that senior management can cause personal disadvantage through misplaced comment.
Aircraft Commanders must never feel their judgement is undermined; perceived pressure from management can adversely affect safety.