5 October 2009: Kevin Keegan has stated that there were ‘no winners’ in his dispute with Newcastle United owner – Mike Ashley. Keegan, who won his claim for constructive dismissal and £2m in compensation but said that he felt like a loser as he was no longer the manager of a club he loved. Keegan looked on the judgement as vindication but felt that the loss of his job – as well as Newcastle losing their premier League statues – meant that no one had emerged unscathed.

The dispute was typical of the type if fall outs that happen in organisations up and down the UK every day. In summary, it transpired that the Clubs Executive Director – Dennis Wise forced the signing of a player on Keegan.

In the workplace, it is always beneficial to have up front difficult discussions with colleagues. When relationships break down, mediation can be a tool that allows all parties to achieve a win-win. Mediation allows for all parties to have a say and express what they wan and why they want it.

Globis is encouraging executives across all line manages to realise the benefits of mediation and collaboration to help reduce the £24bn per year bill that comes from conflict being present in the workplace.