Our client was a senior executive reporting to the board of a UK-based business, with long service and established internal relationships.
During her maternity leave, the client became aware that a proposed restructure would result in her removal from her role and demotion, linked directly to her time away from the business. Despite attempting to resolve the situation informally, her employer failed to provide a satisfactory response as her return to work approached. The matter was time-sensitive, emotionally charged, and complicated by her seniority, long-standing relationships within the organisation, and initial reluctance to pursue formal legal advice. The client needed clear guidance on her options and a realistic assessment of how best to protect her position and future.
We worked closely with the client to explore all available options and provide clear, practical advice on the likely outcomes. Following careful assessment, we advised that negotiating a severance package was the most appropriate course, as returning to the workplace was no longer realistic given the circumstances. We led a robust and strategic negotiation process, grounded in the strength of the client’s legal position. This included rejecting an initial offer that did not reflect the merits of her claim and requiring the employer to reconsider on more reasonable terms. We advanced her case firmly in both open and without prejudice discussions, maintaining pressure where the employer failed to provide a coherent defence. Throughout, we kept the client closely informed, explained each step in plain language, and provided ongoing advice on costs, risk, and proportionality to support confident decision-making.
The matter concluded with a promptly agreed exit package worth more than a year’s pay, exceeding the client’s expectations. Settlement was achieved without the delay, cost, and uncertainty of Employment Tribunal proceedings. The employer agreed to cover our legal fees in full, allowing the client to retain the entire severance sum. This outcome provided financial security and enabled the client to focus on securing her next role.
Anthony Purvis commented: “The client was very happy with the result, which is why we do our job. We want the best outcomes for our clients and, when we are able to deliver them, it is a great feeling.”
Employment & HR Law