Courts / Kerry / Report

Outgoing Ryanair exec has information competitors would "kill to have", court hears

Summary

In a High Court hearing, Eddie Wilson, former chief people officer of Ryanair, testified that outgoing COO Peter Bellew possessed confidential information that competitors would "kill to have". Wilson claimed Bellew had insights into Ryanair's cost‑saving strategies and long‑term contracts, information normally shared in senior management meetings called 'Zs'. Bellew had not attended these meetings since late July, after announcing his departure, and no longer had access to confidential reports. Ryanair alleges Bellew breached a 12‑month non‑compete clause by accepting a role at easyJet, its main rival in the low‑fare sector. Bellew denies the breach and argues the clause is unenforceable. Ryanair seeks an order enforcing the non‑compete and an injunction against Bellew's employment with easyJet. The case continues before Mr Justice Senan Allen, with a judgment expected before Christmas.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Outgoing Ryanair exec has information competitors would "kill to have", court hears. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• Christmas Other
• 2019-12-06 Publication

Why: In a claim denied by Mr Bellew, Ryanair says he cannot commence work with what it considers to be its main rival in the low fares aviation sector because of a clause in his contract of employment. CNI source report

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial

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Read the original CNI report