Program Manager I

26th June, 2024

Position Summary

The Program Manager holds a pivotal role in leading the organization towards fulfilling diverse customer expectations while ensuring operational efficiency and profitability. They oversee and coordinate all aspects of program execution, engaging various teams including Engineering, Purchasing, Manufacturing, Finance, Quality, Sales, R&D, and HR. Acting as the primary liaison between customer design engineers and our multifunctional team, they ensure seamless collaboration and delivery.

Key Functions & Responsibilities

• Provide authoritative leadership to the program team.
• Utilize escalation protocols effectively to resolve issues promptly.
• Interface with customers, overseeing all customer-related activities and support.
• Establish program structure and delegate responsibilities accordingly.
• Ensure adherence to organizational processes and tools.
• Authorize necessary work to support program objectives.
• Review staffing and organizational plans during project initiation.
• Regularly assess technical, cost, and scheduling performance.
• Identify and address critical issues promptly.
• Offer coaching, training, and support to individuals and teams on Program Management techniques.
• Ensure timely preparation of program status reviews and design-related documentation.
• Manage tooling and associated accounts, liaising with relevant departments.
• Establish and manage budgets for various customer-related activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Experience, Skills, & Abilities

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or Economics.
• CAPM or PMP certification HIGHLY preferred.
• Ford customer experience ideal, other OEM's a plus.
• 1-3 years of project management experience with direct customer interaction.
• Technical training in product development.
• Proficiency in project planning and related tools.
• Strong team-building, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent customer relationship and communication skills.
• Knowledge of risk management.
• Strong leadership and organizational abilities.
• Capacity to manage multiple projects with minimal supervision.
• Familiarity with AIAG, APQP, and IATF procedures.
• Proficiency in quality tools and Program Management Systems.
• Experience in managing Program progress and KPIs.

Additional Skills

• Experience in automotive manufacturing or Tier One system integration.
• Background in Engineering, Design, and Testing.
• Financial analysis proficiency with understanding of Profit and Loss, Balance Sheet, and cost drivers.
• Experience in creating Business Cases and implementing cost reduction plans.
• Ability to envision and implement profitable scenarios.
• Ability to cultivate strong customer relationships.
• Experience in business negotiation with external stakeholders.
• Proficient in management by objectives and matrix team management.
• Skilled in conflict resolution and quick decision-making.
• Analytical approach to problem-solving and crisis management.
• Able to navigate internal networks and escalate issues effectively.

Computer Skills

• Proficiency in MS Office Suite, Project, PowerBI, Siemens Team Center, and SAP.
• Familiarity with internet tools and email communication.

This role requires working under pressure, often facing deadlines and interruptions. Travel, both domestic and international, may be required to visit customers and manufacturing sites. The job description aims to outline primary duties, with additional responsibilities as needed.