HMRC manager wins unfair dismissal claim

A former HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) manager, Ka Wong, has won an unfair dismissal claim at an employment tribunal in Manchester. Mr. Wong was previously sacked for gross misconduct following allegations of bullying, discrimination, and sexual harassment after he implemented a strict management style with a new team.

The tribunal heard that Mr. Wong’s approach, described as “robust” and “no-nonsense,” clashed with a team accustomed to a more relaxed management style and flexible working policies. One specific incident involved Mr. Wong monitoring an employee whom he suspected of abusing her breaks to visit a Greggs bakery.

While staff members lodged formal grievances, the tribunal found that the internal investigation into Mr. Wong’s conduct was of “poor quality” and “devoid of cogent reasoning.” The judge noted that HMRC had effectively predetermined his dismissal, despite an initial recommendation that his behavior only warranted a final written warning.