Premier Investments has privately said it sacked the chief executive of its stationery brand Smiggle because of allegations he inappropriately communicated with staff and interfered in human resources investigations.

John Cheston was terminated as CEO in September after 12 years at the retailing giant founded by billionaire businessman Solomon Lew. He denies any wrongdoing, and had flagged his intention to step down and join Lovisa, the jewellery chain that is controlled by a rival billionaire, Brett Blundy.