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** * 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