Audi UK is implementing a new leadership and change management programme across its dealerships, designed by Alliance Manchester Business School.

The new Audi Leadership Excellence and Development (LEAD) programme will support more than 350 Audi leaders and aspiring future leaders working in the German car maker’s UK retail network.

Emerging trends such as electric cars, connected cars and digitalisation open up new opportunities to businesses, they also add a layer of complexity that needs to be addressed. This programme is designed to equip Audi employees with the skills to effectively manage change, innovate and lead others so that they remain competitive in the market.

“The new Audi LEAD programme represents a major investment in existing and emerging talent across our retail network. We are tapping into Alliance Manchester Business School’s expertise to deliver a robust leadership programme that will help our people to identify future business challenges and devise solutions to address them effectively, which will ultimately make a significant contribution to the continued success of all Audi Centres,” said Heather Davies, people development manager at Audi UK.

Professor Graham Winch, academic director of executive education at Alliance Manchester Business School, added: “We’ve worked with a number of organisations to deliver management and leadership programmes, helping businesses to navigate today’s changing business landscape. The Audi LEAD programme has been specifically tailored to help each centre meet current and potential business challenges.

“It will combine online study, residential modules, action learning and reflective practice. We hope the syllabus will help to build confidence in Audi delegates to come up with solutions to tackle obstacles in business.”

The programme runs for eight months and covers three leadership modules on the business, the role of an individual employee and their respective teams.

Rather than focusing on theoretical business problems, participants will solve real-time issues or business challenges affecting their Audi Centre, with support from experienced business experts and personal coaches.