Job Description

The primary function and responsibility of the Program Manager are to ensure the plant is well-prepared for the launch of new products, mid-cycle enhancements, and other major projects as identified. We are seeking an experienced and knowledgeable Program Manager to oversee all phases of programs, from inception through completion. This role involves managing the program life cycle, directing activities to meet business goals, and driving program execution to achieve key business and financial objectives. The Program Manager will be accountable for cost, schedule, and technical performance of company programs and will serve as the primary customer contact for program activities.

Responsibilities:

• Act as the key point of contact and provide support to sales on customer account projects.
• Manage New Product Projects, defining, maintaining, and monitoring program and project scope and objectives.
• Ensure adherence to APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) and PPAP (Production Part Approval Process).
• Rigorously manage scope to achieve commitments within agreed-on time, cost, and quality parameters.
• Validate financial forecasts and reconcile resources and project expenditures.
• Ensure timely and documented Gate reviews, serving as a guarantor of the New Product Development Process.
• Directly manage strategic/critical projects concurrently, balancing customer needs with time-to-market considerations.
• Provide technical support to Marketing and/or Sales for the promotion of new products.
• Conduct risk management to minimize project risks and resolve critical problems as they arise.
• Manage relationships with key stakeholders and create/maintain comprehensive project documentation.
• Lead the project team, coordinate day-to-day activities, secure task planning, and monitor progress against deadlines.
• Report regularly to the leadership team on project status and present periodic reports on assigned programs and projects.
• Coordinate multiple launches simultaneously and provide input into new products, processes, standards, or operational plans.
• Resolve problems in assigned programs using innovative solutions, interface with others in the company, and escalate to executive management when needed.
• Take responsibility for Safety and Environmental policies and adherence.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business Administration, or a related field (Master's degree is a plus).
• Experience: Minimum of 8 years of prior relevant experience.
• Automotive Program Management experience.
• Powdered Metal Technology background is a plus.
• Proven track record of leading multiple concurrent programs.
• Previous program management and launch experience is a must.
• General knowledge of operations, including scheduling, procurement, manufacturing, test engineering, and quality systems.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• General knowledge of finance, including the ability to read and understand financial data such as product income statements, ROI analysis, and net-present value analysis.
• Strong presentation skills.
• Strong attention to detail and follow-through skills.