What do you think this means? I replaced a person only to find out she's due back in ! ?

Question

I was very recently hired in a entry level management position, I was told the person who was in it was NOT management material and that they removed her from that position as she was really just a worker who was "filing in" but she appears to have been at that desk for years from what I can see!

Yesterday the office got an email from the highest manager who said that this person is due back to work in November! OK>>>> should I be concerned?

Answer 1

Take your concerns to your supervisor/manager.  Have that email saying the person is due back with you.  Ask them what their plans for you are, in light of the return of this other person.  If they insist you're keeping your position, ask they give you a written agreement.   It shouldn't be a problem, if they plan to keep you in that position, right?  That way no one will be "confused" when the other person returns.  

If you can't get a commitment from them, I'd be job hunting and get something else lined up by November.  The employer always wants your 100% loyalty.  They have to always look out for themselves, so they aren't loyal to you - at all - unless they need you until November.

It just sounds too fishy to me.  I got burned once, and don't want you to do the same.  Good luck!

Answer 2

This person can either be your friend or a major pain in the rear.  When she comes back try to get to know her.  sounds like she did something to shake up some higher ups.  So don't avoid her but get to know her.  She might be able to help you in your career.  Or she could be coming back with vengeance.  If that's the case try to ignore her and just do your job to the best of your ability.