The interim manager's client had decided to close a small plant of the group within six months. The interim manager was to prepare all relevant measures for the target date and implement the closure in coordination with the group. The site (NRW) had around 100 employees who were primarily involved in development and sales tasks in the automotive segment.
Project group and steering committee for negotiations with the employee side
The interim manager began his mandate by quickly preparing all the necessary measures in terms of sequence and level of detail for collective and individual legal aspects. This included assessing the individual measures in terms of content, time and financial risks. To provide information and prepare for talks and negotiations with the works council and trade union, he prepared a white paper and cost scenarios at very short notice.
To coordinate and implement the measures, the interim manager set up a project group and established a steering committee. He also defined internal and external communication channels and responsibilities. The regular provision of information to employees, the works council and the trade union as well as personal contact with the employees were very important aspects.
Balancing of interests and social plan as well as transfer company negotiated
In personal discussions with the employees, the interim manager actively addressed their fears and concerns about the future in order to alleviate them as much as possible. He showed those affected possible professional and personal future prospects at an early stage. The interim manager also made timely contact with the employment agency and the integration office.
Finally, the interim manager led the negotiations with the works council and trade union on a reconciliation of interests and social plan and moderated a conciliation committee. The negotiations on the closure ultimately resulted in the establishment of a transfer company. The redundancies were announced and the site was closed on the targeted date.
Successful closure on the targeted date
The project involved a total of 30 working days. With this manageable effort, the closure was completed within a tight timeframe and without any disruptions.
