Full Breakdown
Employment Tribunal Awards £400,000 to Real Estate Manager for Unpaid Holiday Days
4/11/2026, 1:54:42 AM
Overview of the Case
Mossadek 'Moss' Ageli, a real estate manager for the Libyan-owned firm Sabtina Limited, has been awarded nearly £400,000 by an employment tribunal after accumulating 827 unpaid holiday days over 25 years. The Watford Employment Tribunal ruled that Ageli was owed £392,000 for these accrued days, in addition to £105,000 for a successful unfair dismissal claim.
Background of Employment
Ageli joined Sabtina Limited in 1987, initially serving as deputy managing director before becoming commercial manager. His holiday entitlement increased from 30 to 45 days in 1996. However, due to operational demands, he was unable to take his annual leave. Between 1988 and 1996, the company directors refused 200 of his holiday requests. In 1998, Ageli formalized an agreement with the company to receive payment for his untaken holidays, which was acknowledged by the non-resident managing director.
Agreement and Payment History
Ageli stated that he could have signed off his holiday payments himself but chose not to, relying on the established agreement. He received payments in lieu of holiday in 2001 and 2004, reinforcing the legitimacy of the arrangement. The agreement allowed his unused holiday days to roll over each year, but this practice changed in May 2022 when a new board of directors was appointed.
Dismissal and Tribunal Findings
In March 2024, Ageli was dismissed for alleged gross misconduct without being provided details or an opportunity to appeal. He contested the dismissal, asserting that he had not been informed of any prior concerns regarding his conduct. The tribunal found that Sabtina did not conduct a reasonable investigation and lacked grounds for the dismissal. Employment Judge George Alliott ruled that Ageli's treatment was unfair, stating that the company had failed to notify him of the charges against him and did not allow him to represent himself.
Implications of the Ruling
The tribunal ordered Sabtina to pay Ageli the full amount owed for his unpaid holiday days, along with additional compensation for unfair dismissal. The judge emphasized that the agreement for holiday pay was established from the start of Ageli's employment and that the company had not acted in good faith regarding his dismissal.
Criticism and Opposition
Ageli's wife, Anisa, expressed her concerns about the treatment her husband received, noting that his inability to take holidays affected their family life. She described the situation as unfair, highlighting the strain it placed on their personal life.
Conclusion
The case of Mossadek Ageli underscores the importance of adhering to employment agreements and the rights of employees regarding holiday entitlements. The tribunal's ruling serves as a reminder of the legal obligations companies have towards their employees, particularly in terms of fair treatment and compensation.
