Hobby turned into professionChristian Lindner joins the automotive industry
After the end of the traffic light coalition, Christian Lindner abandoned his political career. The former Federal Finance Minister and FDP leader withdrew and applied for approval for several mandates. Now it’s clear what’s next for him professionally.
Former FDP leader and Finance Minister Christian Lindner moved to the automotive industry. Starting in January he will become deputy chairman of the board of Autoland AG, the company announced. Lindner wrote in a Facebook post that he wanted to work where the heart of the German economy beats. “The fact that this is the automotive industry will not surprise anyone who knows my personal interests.”
Lindner went on to write that he was enjoying his “new freedom.” “Many doors have opened. Now I have decided which one I will go through professionally.” Autoland AG claims to be Germany’s largest brand-independent car trading group.
The company employs approximately 1,500 people at more than 30 locations. The company’s headquarters are in Sandersdorf-Brehna in Saxony-Anhalt. “Christian Lindner is one of the most prominent advocates of individual mobility,” said company founder Wilfried Wilhelm Anclam, according to the statement. With him, Autoland AG will increase its popularity significantly.
Lindner continued: “In addition to my professional focus at Autoland AG, I am also involved as a supervisory board member and advisor to companies and foundations whose people, topics and visions inspire me.” Lindner did not provide any details.
The Federal Cabinet had decided in October on the approval required because of Lindner’s waiting period. Among other things, the 46-year-old will join the board of shareholders of digital personnel services provider Stepstone Group, a joint investment of private equity funds KKR and Axel Springer SE, as an independent member. It is known from Lindner’s circle that he has applied for approval for these and other mandates.
