An appeal tribunal heard yesterday that Switalski, who alleges that she was forced from her job at F&C as a result of sexual discrimination and harassment, is seeking the massive compensation figure.
The case is currently being heard by the Employment Appeal Tribunal, with F&C contesting the Central London Employment Tribunal’s decision in February this year to uphold Switalski’s discrimination claim.
McDermott Will & Emery is advising F&C on the appeal, with former City chief David Dalgarno (pictured) leading the team as it attempts to overturn the decision. The firm has instructed Blackstone Chambers’ Monica Carss-Frisk as counsel.
Switalski meanwhile is being advised by Withers employment partner Elaine Aarons. Devereux Chambers’ Suzanne McKie has been instructed as counsel.
Switalski claims she was left a mental and physical wreck after being forced out of her £140,000 a year job as head of the legal team at F&C Asset Management. Her initial claim was understood to be for more than £13m for psychiatric damage, loss of earnings, pension rights and career prospects.
In a statement relating to the claim, F&C said earlier this year: “[We are] disappointed in the breakdown in trust between the company and Switalski which has resulted in an employment tribunal. Switalski made a number of claims against the company... the majority of which were not upheld. We vigorously refute all of the claims made against the company.”