Program Manager

Must Have Automotive Program Management Experience

Role Overview

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.

Key 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

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