VW Human Resources Director Gunnar Kilian surprisingly dismissed – new era begins!

VW Human Resources Director Gunnar Kilian surprisingly dismissed – new era begins!

The Volkswagen Group is facing an unexpected upheaval: On July 4, 2025, Gunnar Kilian, the labor director, unexpectedly resigned from his position. This was first reported by news38 reported. Kilian, who has worked for the group since 2000 and sat on the board since 2018, played a key role in the digital transformation and overcoming the Corona crisis. His departure marks the end of an eventful term in office that was marked by challenges such as the diesel crisis and the current conversion to electromobility.

Daniela Cavallo, chairwoman of the works council, commented on the separation in an internal communication. She described the farewell as hard, but emphasized the positive outcome of Kilian's seven years of work. “It was no longer possible to plan a future together,” she explained, after increasing differences in recent months. A turning point was the break in the VW tariff family last year, which Cavallo described as a historic breach of taboo.

Change in leadership and new challenges

Thomas Schäfer, the brand manager, is now temporarily taking over Kilian's duties. Arne Meiswinkel, the Chief Human Resources Officer, will also be included in the extended Group Management and will temporarily be responsible for human resources issues. The search for a new labor director is already in full swing. Traditionally, the employee side, represented by the works council and IG Metall, is integrated into the proposal process. We are looking for a leader who can fulfill the role of labor director in times of change.

What are the reasons for this separation? daily news reports fundamental differences between Kilian and the supervisory board in Wolfsburg, particularly on key issues affecting the group. This included different ideas about the control of investment companies. All of these key points meant that Kilian lacked the support to consider extending his contract.

Effects of the double transformation

Gunnar Kilian's departure comes at a time when the Volkswagen Group and the entire automotive industry are undergoing profound change. The gradual switch to electromobility and digital transformation are challenges that are constantly becoming more important. According to an investigation WSI The dynamics of transformation in the industry are enormous and require a differentiated view of technologies. The research shows that the breadth of digital innovation and ecological adaptation is diversified along key characteristics such as gender, age and qualifications.

In this highly dynamic phase of the automotive industry, it is crucial that Volkswagen develops a clear vision in order to successfully meet the challenges of the double transformation. A new beginning in terms of personnel seems to be essential in order to set the course for the future.

Overall, the separation from Gunnar Kilian is a significant step for Volkswagen, which not only affected the internal structures, but also has far-reaching consequences for the workforce and the future of the company.