I left the job as I had some work permit issues and had a period where my new work permit was delayed and I was unable to return to work for a few months. The relationship between my employer and I broke down, and when I got back into the country I decided not to return to work there.
The employer did agree to be a verbal reference, however since then has also accused me of a number of mistakes that have cost the company money. I have not been working there so have no idea if these are my mistakes or if I am being used as a scapegoat.
I had a number of interviews recently and was unsuccessful in the positions after the reference stage. My 2 other references gave glowing reports, so I have a suspicion that this person has given me a bad reference.
I have been freelancing as well so it has been suggested that I remove this company and replace it with my freelance accounts. However I feel it is lying by omission if I completely remove this job from the resume.
I can leave the job on the resume and remove him from my reference list, but it does not stop a potential employer from contacting the company on their own account.
Should I include this previous employer?