Indian Motorcycle has eliminated approximately 70 positions across several business functions as it restructures following its separation from Polaris, while planning to add up to 60 manufacturing employees at its Spirit Lake, Iowa, plant.
In an Oct. 28 company announcement, Indian says the reductions follow a seven-month review of overlapping responsibilities and organizational inefficiencies as it establishes independent operations.
The company is also filling as many as 10 existing positions in finance, corporate administration, and other functions previously handled by employees who remained with Polaris. Indian describes the combined staffing changes as net-neutral, although the announcement does not specify a hiring timetable or identify the departments and locations affected by the layoffs.
Expanding manufacturing capabilities and jobs in Spirit Lake
“Expanding manufacturing capabilities and jobs in Spirit Lake and building a team dedicated to the needs of this business are critical aspects of our long-term plan,” Indian Motorcycle CEO Mike Kennedy explains. “That said, we are also making some difficult organizational decisions that are reducing some positions.”
Indian recently added engine manufacturing and expanded paint capabilities at Spirit Lake. The planned manufacturing hires will support those operations as the company builds the production and administrative capabilities needed to operate separately from its former parent.
Indian Motorcycle CEO Mike Kennedy said that expanding manufacturing capabilities and jobs in Spirit Lake, and building a team dedicated to the needs of the business, are critical to its long-term plan. (File photo: Mike Kennedy/Indian Motorcycle)
“Spirit Lake is strategically foundational for our future,” Kennedy notes.
The restructuring continues Indian’s transition under Carolwood ownership,
The restructuring continues Indian’s transition under Carolwood ownership, which began in February. The company says its priorities include strengthening U.S. manufacturing, establishing independent business functions and positioning Indian and its dealers for long-term profitability.
Kennedy acknowledged the impact on employees losing their jobs.
“This is an unfortunate and difficult aspect of this process, because these decisions affect people who have contributed to Indian Motorcycle over the years; and we recognize the impact on them and their families,” Kennedy says. “We are incredibly grateful for their work and are committed to treating them with the utmost care and respect throughout this process.”
For dealers, the changes place more manufacturing and corporate responsibilities directly within Indian. The company says the revised structure is intended to improve its responsiveness to dealerships and customers while supporting sustained profitability and growth.
