12. Duty to avoid a conflict of interest

Abstract

This chapter discusses the director’s duty to avoid a situation in which he has, or can have, a personal interest conflicting, or which possibly may conflict, with the interests of those whom he is bound to protect (the no-conflict rule); and the equally inflexible rule that, without consent, a person in a fiduciary position is not entitled to profit from that position (the no-profit rule or, more accurately no secret profit rule). These key obligations are discussed in detail, exploring the extent of the strict duty to avoid a conflict and the judicial attitude to breaches of duty. The need for disclosure and authorisation is discussed. Benefits from third parties and conflicts from proposed transactions with the company are also addressed.