Disclosed board communications calling ex-CEO a 'nothing' undermined case for his sacking, ERA finds
The Employment Relations Authority has ordered Tasman Rugby Union Incorporated (TRU) to reinstate former chief executive Steven Mitchell to its payroll on an interim basis, finding he has a strongly arguable case that his dismissal was predetermined by the union's board.
Mitchell was employed as TRU's CEO from June 2024 until his summary dismissal on March 20, 2026, following allegations of serious misconduct. He has challenged the dismissal as unjustified and is seeking compensation, lost earnings, and reinstatement.
The dispute traces back to a late-2025 organisational review of TRU, which included brief but critical commentary describing the CEO as lacking in "vision, strategy, and effective communication" and referencing "low visibility and engagement from CEO and senior management."
Following the review, TRU sent Mitchell a letter on December 17, 2025 raising performance concerns, including his attendance and leave patterns.
Two days later, a further letter alleged serious misconduct, including an intimidating conversation with a staff member, breaches of confidentiality regarding a potential restructuring lead, unauthorised extension of fixed-term staff contracts, and unpaid travel costs for his wife.
Mitchell was suspended pending investigation and was summarily dismissed in March 2026 after TRU found the allegations against him substantiated.
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