RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK – IBM scored a victory of sorts in its battle with former senior human resources Lindsay-Rae McIntyre. The UNC-Chapel Hill graduate and Morehead Scholar can become the top diversity officer at Microsoft – but not until July.
“We’re pleased the court granted IBM’s motion for a temporary restraining order, protecting IBM’s confidential information and diversity strategies,” Big Blue said in a statement Monday after the settlement was disclosed in a court filing.
“We’re glad the action has been resolved to the satisfaction of all parties and that Ms. McIntyre will not begin her new responsibilities until July.”
IBM sought the restraining order, citing protection of trade secrets and violation of a non-compete agreement.
The dispute erupted on Feb. 11 when Microsoft announced the hiring of McIntyre, who earned her MBA at Duke, as its chief diversity officer.
IBM sought a restraining order in federal court the next day.
Law360 reported Monday that McIntyre resigned from IBM on Jan. 14, and Microsoft told IBM “it intended to have her start work Jan 30.”
“Ultimately the two sides were able to agree to a settlement and have now asked the court to dismiss the case with prejudice, essentially ending the court battle,” according to The Register tech news site. “Each side will bear its own costs.”
Talks had begun on Feb. 23.
Microsoft welcomed the settlement.
“We’re pleased this matter is resolved and we’re thrilled that Lindsay-Rae McIntyre will be joining Microsoft as our chief diversity officer,” a Microsoft spokesperson said.
