151 officer set to begin ‘constructive dismissal’ tribunal
0A section 151 officer suspended after being accused of bullying will this week bring her claim for constructive dismissal before an employment tribunal.
Liz Wilkinson resigned from her position as executive director for finance at Bournemouth Borough Council in October last year after complaints about her behaviour were made by senior officers.
However, Wilkinson claims that she was constructively dismissed after raising concerns about value for money relating to a contract the council signed with supplier Mouchel in 2010.
The council denies the claim, and has appointed lawyers to fight the claim at the tribunal, which begins on Thursday (27 August) at Southampton Magistrates Court.
Tribunals are normally heard by three people including a legally qualified employment judge, and two lay members.
Generally, witnesses are called for both sides with witness statements supplied to the tribunal in advance.
The case is expected to last until 2 October with a week’s break in the middle of proceedings.
Full details of Wilkinson’s claim to the tribunal will not be made available until proceedings start.
In January, the council said that it “rigorously disputed” Wilkinson’s claim that she was constructively dismissed and is “preparing a comprehensive response for presentation” at the tribunal.
Bournemouth’s 10-year partnership with Mouchel (now part of Kier) covers benefits, ICT facilities management, finance, human resources and payroll services, while a separate strand is targeted at supporting the council’s efficiency and transformation programme and saving 40% of the council’s budget.
The contract also covers other commitments including job creation and shared services.
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