Program Manager

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

• Bachelors degree in Engineering or technical field


• 49 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