Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by The Negotiator. Read the original article for full details.
Former Connells Group CEO Wins Age Discrimination Case Against Skipton
David Livesey, the former Chief Executive of Connells Group, has won an age discrimination and unfair dismissal claim against Skipton Building Society, the owner of the estate agency group. Livesey, aged 67, spent 16 years as CEO and announced his retirement in 2023 at the age of 64.
The Employment Tribunal found that Livesey received less favourable treatment regarding his Connells shares compared to another former executive. The tribunal heard that Skipton sent Livesey a cheque for 46p for Connells shares that had cost him £420,000, while another former group chief executive, David Plumtree, received £1.6 million for a smaller stake. The tribunal ruled that this less favourable treatment was not justified.
Judge R Wood upheld Livesey's claims for unfair dismissal and age discrimination but rejected a claim for bullying. A hearing to determine redress is scheduled for October.
A spokesperson for Skipton Building Society stated that they were pleased all bullying claims were rejected and that they take workplace culture seriously, but expressed disappointment with the tribunal’s full decision and said it would be reviewed carefully.
This case may be of interest to UK letting agents and inventory clerks as it highlights the importance of fair treatment and robust workplace policies within large property groups.
Source: The Negotiator