Being on “leave of absence” seems to be an issue for everybody. I’ve been on a leave of absence, and you basically SIGN OUT of the company. Contrary to what you say, YOU ARE NO LONGER AN EMPLOYEE.
The only advantage to doing an LOA is the possibility of returning to work. But, an LOA is NOT A GUARANTEE OF CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT.
People don’t understand how an LOA works .. so they’re willing to try to make a connection that no longer exists.
I too have been on a LOA. My ability to return to my position was SECURE until, and not until, I said I would not be returning. She is not some low skilled Walmart greeter, she is ‘skilled’ upper management at Goldman Sachs with influence. You are kidding yourself if you don’t think GS would bring her back if she desired so. .