Optare has started a consultation process to move part of its workforce to in-house contractor status as part of its ongoing business transformation.
Around 30 members of staff are expected to be affected by the move, transferring to an existing supplier, and will continue to work full-time at Optare’s North Yorkshire plant.
Graham Begum, CEO says: “For Optare and its employees, our adoption of contract working for a portion of our workforce forms part of our overall business transformation programme as we target sustainable profitability.
“Given the disruption in our industry and the impact of COVID, we must reduce our fixed costs while striving to preserve jobs wherever possible.
“This proposed transfer to full-time contractor status will mean better salary security and improved career prospects for those employees involved.
“Contractors play an important part in contributing to our operating efficiency and flexibility already at our plant. The transferring employees will be able to continue to work at Optare and will also have the opportunity to work on additional automotive projects.”
The proposed changes will be subject to a consultation period that is expected to be completed before year end.
