The Daily Telegraph

Dyson settles legal wrangling with former chief

- By Alan Tovey

DYSON and its former chief executive have settled legal claims, ending the prospect of a bitter court dispute that could have exposed the inner workings of the privately owned technology firm.

Last month, billionair­e Sir James Dyson’s company filed a claim in the High Court against former boss Max Conze. Dyson was attempting to sue Mr Conze in relation to allegation­s that he leaked the company’s secrets. It was claimed that while chief executive, Mr Conze breached the company’s confidenti­ality rules by giving informatio­n to third parties.

It is understood the legal claim against Mr Conze, who joined the company in 2010 and was promoted to the top job a year later, relates to allegation­s he passed on informatio­n about yet-to-be launched products. The claim is also understood to have said he breached his duties as a chief executive by using Dyson resources and informatio­n to evaluate an investment for the benefit of himself and a venture capital firm, rather than for his employer. A further claim related to allegation­s that Mr Conze failed to adhere to lawful and reasonable instructio­ns over his conduct and focus of attention. Mr Conze was dismissed in October. He denied any wrongdoing and said he would hit back with a counter-claim.

Speaking at the time, he called Dyson’s claim a “ridiculous allegation”. Details of the settlement have not been revealed, but it is thought Mr Conze could receive millions as part of the deal.

A spokesman for Dyson said the company had never formally received a countercla­im from Mr Conze.

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