Audi has launched a voluntary, temporary employee-leasing programme that will let selected staff work at Airbus and other Bavarian defence companies while remaining on Audi contracts. The scheme is centred on Ingolstadt and targets indirect tariff employees, with demand reported to be strong.
The regional deployment plan also covers Diehl, MBDA and KNDS, and is limited to 24 months. Engineers, quality engineers, project managers and employees in technical development and quality assurance form the main target group. Participants keep their Audi pay and employment terms for the duration of the assignment.
The move comes as the automotive industry faces weak conditions while defence-related manufacturers in the region continue to look for skilled workers. Audi framed the programme as a way to broaden career prospects for employees, support local labour shortages and manage industrial change with partners in the Bavarian metal and electrical sector. Airbus has expressed support and remains in close contact as details are coordinated.
An information event for interested employees is planned for the end of October. Audi has not disclosed how many staff may take part, and it remains unclear whether a similar arrangement will be extended to the company’s Neckarsulm site.