Hi-tech expert wins top damages for unfair dismissal

A London-based computer software expert is thought to have become the first person to receive the maximum 50,000 compensation award for unfair dismissal.

The award followed the dismissal of Mervyn Boyd from his post at software company Tibco in 1999.

Although Mr Boyd secured another job, the award was made to compensate him for lost share options.

According to his solicitor, Andrew Relton of Devon firm Nash & Co, the value of his client's lost share options was in the region of 90,000.

City firm Baker & McKenzie acted for Tibco.

The unfair dismissal award limit was raised from 12,000 to 50,000 in October 1999.

Employment Lawyers Association chairman Jane Mann said the case showed the willingness of tribunals to make the maximum award where losses were in excess of 50,000.

Claimants could recover the value of lost share options where a contract claim might be impossible because of exclusion clauses.

Sue Allen