Leadership in times of transformation: Employee-centered focus
Dr. Ricarda Engelmeier
Managing Director MMK, Founder and CEO MyCollective
Prof. Dr. Dr. h. c. mult. Horst Wildemann
Managing Director TCW, Technical University of Munich
Outstanding case studies on employee-related transformations
Due to the tripartite division of the world, we are experiencing an unprecedented shift in production. But how do you remain competitive when production costs are rising as a result? The answer is automation and digitalization! This technological change is not only transforming workplaces, but also the way we communicate and structure our teams. This is where the biggest challenge comes into play: the right leadership. Only those who manage to keep employees at the center of attention while implementing innovative solutions will master these challenges, especially in times when skilled workers are becoming one of the scarcest resources.
Case study: MAN Truck & Bus SE
Michael Kobriger
Member of the Executive Board of MAN Truck & Bus SE
In view of the expected decline in the working population and the continuing shortage of skilled workers, particularly in the fields of information and communication technology, MAN has developed a strategy that puts people at the center. By promoting a positive employee experience and maximizing the potential and commitment of every employee, MAN creates a working environment that is both productive and motivating. A key element of this employee-centered transformation is the continuous training and upskilling of employees. MAN invests heavily in training programs and professional development. In addition, MAN is focusing on employees using generative artificial intelligence as a matter of course. MAN expects these measures to lead to a significant increase in productivity in the coming years, as employees will be able to expand their skills and better adapt to the constantly changing requirements of the industry. Another important aspect of MAN's employee-related transformation is the creation of an inclusive and supportive corporate culture. MAN actively promotes diversity and inclusion in the workplace by creating an environment in which all employees feel respected and valued. This not only contributes to employee satisfaction and motivation, but also promotes the company's innovative strength by bringing in different perspectives and ideas.
Case study: Diehl Stiftung & Co. KG
Dr. Klaus Richter
Spokesman of the Executive Board Diehl Stiftung & Co. KG
In view of the shortage of skilled workers, particularly in the STEM subjects, Diehl has responded proactively to this challenge by significantly strengthening its recruiting in these areas. Through targeted measures to recruit talent, Diehl has been able to attract the specialists it needs and thus secure its competitiveness. A central aspect of Diehl's employee-related transformation is the implementation of a comprehensive employee retention program. This program is based on creating attractive working conditions that offer employees a pleasant and supportive work environment. In addition, Diehl prioritizes the career development of its employees. The company offers clear and transparent career development paths that show employees prospects for their professional future. Diehl supports the personal and professional development of its employees through regular training and further education opportunities, enabling them to continuously expand their skills and take on new challenges.
Case study: Schneider Electric
Dr. Ali Haj Fraj
Senior Vice President, Digital Factory Line of Business, Schneider Electric
Schneider Electric has developed a comprehensive employee-centric transformation program that focuses on the integration of technology and human needs. The cornerstones of this transformation include the implementation of IoT and AI technologies to optimize work processes and improve collaboration, as well as the use of digital twins to visualize and optimize processes and improve decision-making. Furthermore, sustainability is promoted through the introduction of energy management solutions that reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions. The company is committed to promoting the circular economy and energy efficiency through the use of modern technologies. In addition, Schneider Electric has introduced a Unified Operations Center to centrally monitor and control all company processes in order to use real-time data to improve efficiency and promote transparent decision-making.
Lessons Learned
Employee-related transformation in companies is proving to be the key to sustainable success by effectively integrating technological innovations and human needs.
- Automation and digitalization are essential for increasing productivity and meeting the challenges of production relocation. These technologies optimize work processes, promote collaboration and enable better decision-making through real-time data.
- The shortage of skilled workers, particularly in information and communication technologies, poses a serious threat. Companies such as MAN and Diehl are successfully tackling this problem by Targeted measures for employee development and retention. Companies that offer clear prospects for the professional future of their employees create a pleasant and supportive working environment that increases employee satisfaction and loyalty.
- The example of Schneider Electric shows that the Integration of IoT and AI technologies, the use of digital twins and a unified operations center promotes efficiency and transparency in decision-making, which improves the company's overall performance.
- Finally, it is important to emphasize the need for managers to must combine technological change with care for employees. Only through employee-centered leadership can companies successfully master the challenges of the modern working world and ensure sustainable success.