Senior Program Manager
8 days ago
Livonia
Job Description Eldor Automotive Powertrain USA is searching for a Senior Program Manager to join our team at the Sales and Technical office located near the outskirts of Detroit, Michigan. The position is responsible for managing the entire product development process, from the initial feasibility study through full industrialization and mass production. The Program Manager plans and oversees all product development activities, ensuring that project timelines, standards, business processes, and customer requirements are met. The role acts as the main interface between Headquarters, customers, and internal functions such as Sales and Operations, while progressively building program management autonomy and capabilities within the North American region. In addition, the Program Manager is responsible for developing and growing a local team over time, in order to strengthen regional autonomy and progressively offload the Headquarters central team. The position reports functionally to the Global R&D Director (based at Headquarters) and operationally to the local Engineering/Technical Director. The position also leads and manages the Program Management (PM) team. Main Responsibilities • Planning and scheduling project activities: In coordination with functional managers, define project plans, timelines, and milestones. Ensure alignment with internal and customer commitments, monitor adherence to schedules, and drive timely execution of all project phases (Yearly Plan with monthly progress updates)., • Tracking and reporting progress: Continuously monitor project timing, deliverables, and key performance indicators to ensure full compliance with program commitments. Identify risks or deviations early and implement corrective actions as needed., • Coordinating with the PMO and steering committee: Work closely with the PMO to organize and manage the regional Program Steering Committee, ensuring transparent communication of project status, risks, and recovery plans to regional and global leadership., • Leading project team operations: Oversee the day-to-day coordination of the project team in accordance with Eldor APQP and Customer-Specific APQP requirements. Manage internal and external project meetings, monitor the execution of planned activities, and report weekly/monthly to the Technical Director., • Acting as main technical interface with the customer: Serve as the primary technical contact for the customer during both development and acquisition phases, supporting Sales during new business pursuits and ensuring consistent alignment between customer expectations and internal capabilities., • Preparing and maintaining project documentation: Ensure proper preparation, maintenance, and storage of all project documentation in compliance with corporate procedures and IT standards., • Collaborating with sourcing functions: During the development phase and until start of production, interface with the responsible sourcing teams to secure materials and components that meet quality and timing requirements., • Fostering teamwork and communication: Promote effective communication and collaboration across project teams, ensuring alignment among internal departments, Headquarters, and customers., • Driving continuous improvement: Encourage and lead continuous improvement activities, including design reviews, quality assessments, and process optimization initiatives., • Travel requirement: The position requires travel of approximately 20% of the time, primarily for customer and supplier meetings or coordination with Headquarters. Education Requirements • Mechanical Engineering Degree (other technical degree considered), • PMP certification desired Experiences Required • 10+ years as a Program Manager at a Tier 1 automotive supplier, • Proven track record managing programs from feasibility to mass production, delivering on time, within scope and quality standards., • Strong knowledge of automotive OEM processes, APQP, and customer-specific requirements., • Experience leading cross-functional teams and interfacing with customers and global stakeholders., • Experience with Tesla is a strong plus; otherwise, the ability to work with customers like Tesla—flexible, agile, and out-of-the-box thinking—is required. Technical Knowledge and Skills • Knowledge of Quality Standards IATF *, • General knowledge of internal combustion engines with a particular focus on ignition systems and engine systems *, • General knowledge of the architecture of hybrid electric vehicles with particular focus on energy recovery propulsion systems and related electronic management *, • Project Management *, • System standards and quality methodologies typical of the automotive sector: APQP *, • Knowledge of Customer Specific Requirements (Ford, GM, FCA, Nissan, VW), • Ability to draft clear and effective reporting *, • Aptitude for Process engineering Benefits • Competitive pay based on experience., • Climate-controlled environment (AC throughout the plant), • Performance reviews and opportunities for raises, • Quarterly bonuses + MBO, • Health, dental, vision insurance options, HSA account w/ match, • Short-Term/Long-Term Disability, • 401K with company match, • Paid Time Off, • Opportunities for advancement and professional development., • A positive and supportive work environment., • Company celebrations and events for holidays/milestones EOE – Equal Opportunity Employer.