For Executives
Exiting well
Negotiating a dignified departure and favourable separation, including equity, bonus and deferred entitlements.
A senior exit should be assessed as a complete commercial position. Notice, leave, incentives, equity, restraints, confidentiality, references and announcements may interact.
Before proposing terms, identify the contractual baseline, the claims or risks each side is managing and the outcomes that matter after departure. A realistic negotiation is more useful than an inflated opening that obscures priorities.
OWL advises on strategy, conducts negotiations and reviews separation documents before obligations become final.
Common questions
- Is a deed of release standard?
- Deeds are common in negotiated exits, but their terms are not automatically standard. Releases, warranties, confidentiality, non-disparagement, restraints, tax and enforcement provisions need individual review.
- What happens to bonus or equity?
- The answer depends on the contract and plan rules, the reason and date of cessation, board discretion and any negotiated outcome. Those documents should be obtained early.
Discuss this matter in confidence.
Early advice preserves options. Request a consultation to discuss the practical next step.