The business development manager was awarded $15,000 in lost wages for the two months it took to find new employment after resigning. She also received $20,000 in compensation for humiliation, loss of dignity, and injury to feelings.
The Authority acknowledged that “although [the business development manager] had not provided any medical evidence associated with her stress, I accept she suffered distress because of [the employer’s] actions.” Her evidence showed she suffered stress leading to weight loss and hair loss.
The branch manager received $30,000 in lost wages for three months without employment, plus $20,000 in compensation. The ERA noted that “given the situation she was in and how her employment ended, she was upset and became very angry” and as a solo parent, the sudden end of employment created financial strain that forced her to withdraw her KiwiSaver due to hardship.
These cases highlight the importance of properly supporting employees, clearly communicating performance expectations, and following correct procedures when terminating employment, particularly when using trial periods.
