Program Manager

About the role

Leads cross-functional teams to successfully deliver programs by meeting customer Statement of Work (SOW), timing, cost, and quality requirements. Manages projects in a matrix environment using structured processes and standard project management tools.

Responsibilities

• Project Initiation & Planning
  • Assess project feasibility with stakeholders using historical data and risk analysis
  • Define project scope, deliverables, risks, and assumptions
  • Develop comprehensive project plans (scope, schedule, cost, quality, risk, resources, communication)
  • Build and baseline project schedules with cross-functional alignment and leadership approval
  • Lead project kick-off and establish stakeholder communication plans
• Execution
  • Manage cross-functional teams and allocate resources to meet project goals
  • Execute project plans, ensuring alignment with quality and safety standards
  • Implement change management and risk mitigation strategies
  • Drive team performance through leadership, coaching, and collaboration
• Monitoring & Controlling
  • Track project performance against timeline, budget, and KPIs
  • Manage scope, schedule, and cost changes using formal processes
  • Identify variances, implement corrective actions, and communicate status to stakeholders
  • Ensure on-time delivery through coordination with procurement and manufacturing
  • Capture and apply lessons learned for continuous improvement
• Project Closure
  • Ensure all deliverables and launch requirements are completed
  • Obtain final stakeholder acceptance of project outcomes
  • Conduct lessons learned reviews and archive project documentation
  • Transition program ownership to manufacturing/operations teams

Requirements

• Must Have Automotive Program Management Experience
• Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or technical field
  • 4–9 years of program/project management experience
  • Strong Microsoft Office skills (Excel, Project, PowerPoint, Word)
  • Ability to travel up to 25%
• Core Skills & Expertise
  • Project management (scope, cost, timing, risk, quality)
  • Financial acumen and budgeting oversight
  • Experience with new product launches and gated development processes
  • Customer and supplier relationship management
  • Strong negotiation, presentation, and communication skills
• Leadership & Competencies
  • Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams in a matrix environment
  • Strong organizational, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
  • Effective communicator with stakeholders at all levels
  • Self-driven with ability to manage ambiguity
  • High ethical standards and commitment to safety
  • Skilled in stakeholder alignment and consensus building
• Work Environment
  • Hands-on involvement in manufacturing and launch activities
  • Ability to work on production floor and at customer locations
  • Capable of lifting up to 35 lbs
• Preferred Certification
  • PMP (Project Management Professional) – completed or in progress