Evans’ sudden departure from the industry giant after three years in the top job provoked widespread speculation as to the nature of what the company is referring to as “the cessation of his employment.”

The company has issued a statement to the ASX saying that no payment has been made to Evans (pictured) and that it will defend itself in the matter, retaining law firm Blake Dawson to do so.

Evans’ departure in January this year was initially described as being “by mutual agreement”, with the company saying it was “reviewing the structure of its senior executive team” in light of the global financial crisis.

Chief financial officer Richard Allely has stepped into the role on an interim basis, with the company saying it expected to have a full-time replacement by the end of April.

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