Dental Pension Fund Sues Ex-Director for 50 Million Euros Amid Jurisdiction Dispute

Berlin's dental chamber pension fund (VZB) is pursuing a substantial claim of around 50 million euros against its former director, whom it has fired. The VZB alleges that the ex-manager abused his position, leading to significant financial losses for the organization.

A crucial labor court hearing, intended to address the damages claim, was abruptly canceled. This postponement stems from the VZB's challenge to the labor court's jurisdiction. The pension fund has formally requested that the case be transferred to a civil court, arguing that the dispute does not solely arise from the former director's employment relationship.

This jurisdictional dispute means the labor court will now decide whether it or a civil court is the appropriate venue. Both parties have until the end of the month to submit their statements before a decision is made without a public hearing. The labor court had previously deemed the termination of the director's employment valid, but this ruling is under appeal.

Adding further complexity, Berlin's public prosecutor's office has launched its own investigation into suspicions of bribery and corruption related to the case. Separately, the VZB is also engaged in civil litigation against former executives, the state of Berlin, an auditor, and a bank, seeking further damages through a separate lawsuit filed at the Berlin Regional Court.