It has been 5 years since I served as an "Associate" of operations at this company. Since my departure, that position has been filled by 3 different employees. I now work in R&D as a Project Manager.

The newest associate, who was trained by her predecessor, has left the company. Now, this recent associate has been hospitalized, and they are falling behind on errands and assignments. The VP of Operations approached me, asking that I fill the role in her absence until she recovers and returns. He asserted that I am the perfect backup because of my previous experience as an associate.

I informed him that it's not feasible, as I have pressing deadlines to meet and ongoing projects with contractors that cannot be delayed. Moreover, the business processes have changed so substantially that I'm uncertain where to begin; it would be akin to undergoing training all over again.

I typically pride myself on being reasonable and accommodating at work, but this request falls outside my current responsibilities. I believe the VP won't accept that their department has failed to devise a contingency plan, instead relying on my past experience to restore order. Had I not been so occupied, I would have offered assistance.

Now, the VP has lodged a complaint with the CEO, penning an extensive paragraph to explain why I was their optimal choice to serve as a backup. The CEO responded, affirming that this matter falls within the VP's department and that I should not be involved. The VP must hire a temporary replacement or assume the responsibilities themselves. The VP of Operations is now furious and has ceased communicating with me. We once enjoyed a productive working relationship, and he was instrumental in my career advancement, having hired me and promoted me twice. I appreciate his recognition of my work, but I suspect this is why he's upset that I did not honor his request when he sought me for the favor.

I feel a mixture of guilt and regret over how the situation unfolded, but I cannot neglect my current responsibilities either.

TLDR: Five years after leaving an operations role, the VP asked me to fill in temporarily due to an emergency. I declined due to current responsibilities, leading to the CEO's support and a strained relationship with the VP. Despite guilt, I stand by my decision.