The company behind major retail brands like Rebel and Supercheap Auto has fired its chief executive Anthony Heraghty after receiving additional information about an alleged romantic relationship he had with the company’s former head of resources.
The board of Super Retail Group issued a statement on Tuesday informing shareholders Heraghty’s employment had been terminated with “immediate effect”.
“The Board made this decision after receiving new information from Mr Heraghty regarding his relationship with the company’s former Chief Human Resources Officer,” the company said.
“In light of this new information, the Board has concluded Mr Heraghty’s prior disclosures were not satisfactory.”
“The Board has exercised its discretion to lapse Mr Heraghty’s incentives, which includes all unvested incentives and vested but unexercised rights,” the statement said.
It comes as the Super Retail Group has faced a high-profile court case from two former employees, who claimed there was a culture of bullying at the company. The legal action includes allegations about a romantic relationship between Heraghty and the company’s former human relations head, Jane Kelly.
Super Retail Group owns some of Australia’s biggest retail brands, including Rebel Sport, BCF, Supercheap Auto, and Macpac.
The company’s Chief Financial Officer David Burns, has been appointed Interim Chief Executive Officer while the company undertakes a search for a permanent replacement.