Employment contract signed but doesn't want job?

A relative is leaving his job soon. He was offered and accepted another job, and has signed a contract. Both are large multinationals.

For various reasons, he now doesn't want to take it up - can he just notify the employer that he doesn't want the job any more, or is there any recourse the employer may take to either compel him to take up the job, or sue for damages/compensation?


While I think he is okay to do it, employment law is not my area, and I don't want to misdirect him.
I'm hoping for some advice - it is causing him considerable stress and lack of sleep.

In theory, he has a contract and they could insist that he start on the appointed day. He could, of course, then hand in his notice.

In practice, the employer will be disappointed and probably annoyed, but won't do anything about it.

He should call them as soon as possible and tell them. He should also give them the "various reasons.".

By the way, if he is staying in his current job because they have counter-offered, he should not accept the counter-offer. If they don't appreciate him now, they probably won't appreciate him in the future.

Thanks - no it's not a counter-offer, it's a quality of life decision.

Did he mention leaving to his current employers? Hand in notice?

Notice has been handed in, and he's happy enough to go through with it.

He needs to just inform them asap with 'unforeseen circumstances' excuse. Probably should make it clear that he is not staying in his present position as well.

That's the approach he's going to take.

Thanks all.