Former legal chief Meaghan Simpson has filed a lawsuit against Webjet, alleging that she was dismissed for bringing attention to discrepancies in the CV of the company’s chief executive, Katrina Barry. The case is unfolding in the Victorian Federal Court following Simpson’s departure from the travel company in June 2023. She claims that Barry misrepresented her work experience, particularly regarding her tenure at Westpac Bank and Virgin Australia.
Simpson’s legal action seeks compensation for unfair dismissal, asserting that her termination occurred shortly after she informed three Webjet directors of her intention to seek legal advice about Barry’s alleged CV exaggerations. The details of her claims include a statement that Barry had never practiced law, contradicting public announcements about her legal background, as reported by HR Leader.
Webjet Responds to Allegations
Operating with a market valuation of approximately $1.7 billion, Webjet has firmly rejected Simpson’s allegations. A spokesperson for the company stated that her dismissal was due to under-performance, insisting that they will vigorously defend against her claims. “Webjet’s Board conducted appropriate reviews of Ms Barry’s CV and is confident in her leadership of the company. The case is not about Ms Barry’s CV,” the spokesperson said.
New documents filed in court reveal that Simpson has also alleged that Barry did not take potential breaches of the company’s internal share trading policy seriously. In response, Webjet has denied these allegations, emphasizing that they will refrain from making further comments while the matter is ongoing.
According to a report from The Australian Financial Review, Webjet’s defense includes assertions that Simpson struggled to accept feedback regarding her performance. Simpson has countered these claims, stating that Barry has not provided concrete examples of any alleged deficiencies in her work.
Context and Broader Implications
Simpson is represented by the law firm Maurice Blackburn, known for its expertise in workplace law. Although the firm declined to comment on the case, Simpson’s LinkedIn profile highlights her career trajectory at Webjet, where she began as company secretary and legal counsel in May 2024 before being promoted to general counsel in July 2024.
Simpson’s situation is part of a growing landscape of legal disputes in the corporate world. Other notable cases include a claim by a former trader against ANZ Bank and a dispute involving Metcash, where former employees allege bullying by the chief financial officer.
Webjet recently spun off its business-to-business operations into Web Travel Group, while the remaining Webjet Travel Group is currently navigating a takeover bid from rival HelloWorld and private equity firm BGH Capital. The outcome of Simpson’s lawsuit could have significant implications not only for her but also for the broader corporate governance standards within the travel industry.
