Intel Corp (INTC)

[Windsock]

I think that a major reason or perhaps the reason, for Bruce Sewell's departure was money. Apple is a lot more generous with executive pay than Intel. It's stock is also a much better bet for appreciation than Intel.

Your theory about a conflict on the merit of settlement at this time makes no sense to me. The decision to settle was not made by Andy Bryant. It was certainly a collective decision of executives at the highest leve, probably including Brant, and the Board.

Andy Bryant was designated as lead negotiator to replace Bruce Sewell after he announced his departure and left for Apple.

http://www.businessweek.com/technology/content/nov2009/tc20091115_692400.htm