A finance manager who moved to France against her employer's instructions has had her unfair dismissal claim rejected by a tribunal. Iryna Malyk was terminated by Teleperformance Contact after relocating to France despite being given express instructions that she must work from the UK.
Ms. Malyk argued that her role was fully remote and therefore her relocation should not have resulted in dismissal. However, the tribunal found that she had been explicitly told she would lose her job if she moved abroad due to potential tax and legal complications. She proceeded with the move, stating she disagreed with the company's policy, leading to her dismissal.
The case highlights the complexities surrounding remote work arrangements, particularly when employees choose to work from different countries. It raises questions about whether companies should permit their staff to work from abroad in the post-pandemic era, considering the legal and tax implications for both the employer and the employee.