Both parties reach 'confidential agreement' to resolve dispute
The Tasman Rugby Union (TRU) and its former CEO, Steve Mitchell, have agreed to settle their employment dispute that recently led to Mitchell's interim reinstatement under the orders of the Employment Relations Authority (ERA).
A joint statement from both parties said TRU and Mitchell have reached a "confidential agreement" to resolve the employment proceedings between them.
The TRU is now withdrawing its serious misconduct claim against Mitchell in connection with his dismissal, while Mitchell is withdrawing his personal grievance claim, according to the statement, as shared with HRD by Mitchell's counsel.
"The parties acknowledge that they have different perspectives on the future direction of Tasman Rugby Union and how best to achieve the Union's objectives," the statement read.
Employment dispute between Mitchell, TRU
The settlement ends the employment dispute between Mitchell and TRU after the former's summary dismissal as CEO in March.
TRU had accused Mitchell of serious misconduct, including an intimidating conversation with a staff member, breaches of confidentiality regarding a potential restructuring, unauthorised extension of fixed-term staff contracts, and unpaid travel costs for his wife.
While the ERA has yet to decide on the serious misconduct allegations, it ordered in July the interim reinstatement of Mitchell after determining that his dismissal was predetermined by the union's board.
Central to the interim reinstatement ruling was the disclosed internal board communications made before and during the disciplinary process, where Mitchell was described by other board members as a "skant" and "aka 67. Which means he is a nothing."
A substantive hearing was initially scheduled for the week of 12 October to deal with the serious misconduct claims, but will no longer proceed following the settlement.
According to the parties, Mitchell's employment with the TRU will now conclude by agreement.
"TRU acknowledges Steve's significant contribution to rugby throughout the Tasman region, particularly as Operations Manager and more recently as CEO," the joint statement read.
"The parties agree that Steve leaves TRU with his head held high. TRU thanks Steve for his service and wishes him every success in his future professional and community endeavours."
