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If an employer had provided "meaningful support" to improve a new manager's performance, it likely wouldn't have sacked him, the Fair Work Commission has commented in ordering maximum compensation for unfair dismissal.

Dismissal was a disproportionate response to the allegations against the manager, who had been "repeatedly promoted" during his unblemished 12-year tenure, Commissioner Adam Walkaden said.

The manager began working as a floor salesman at Metcash Trading's Mitre 10 store in Katoomba NSW in September 2013, and progressed through the ranks until he was promoted to store manager in June last year.

Less than two months later, on 26 August, two superiors met with the manager to discuss concerns about his conduct and performance. A follow-up email said: "Nobody is doubting your giving 100% or your best Dave. We are trying to work with you to provide clear metrics and then support you in completing (sic)."

The manager went on annual leave on 8 September and, when he returned on 20 October, he was immediately suspended and required to attend an informal meeting...