Role Summary
Job Description
This is a Hybrid position based at our locations in either Portage, MI OR Gastonia, NC.
- No Visa sponsorships are available for this position.
The
Program Manager will oversee and execute customer development projects, managing all commercial and program-related tasks. This role involves implementing business strategies, maintaining strong business relationships, leading internal teams, managing timelines, and overseeing customer interactions and assigned projects.
Job Responsibilities
- Provide ongoing support to customers for technical issues and ensure high-quality service, including order follow-ups, customer visits, cost/revenue analysis in collaboration with project controlling, and preparing and conducting customer presentations
- Act as a liaison between customers and MANN+HUMMEL departments / production plants for assigned programs
- Prepare and lead price negotiations for assigned projects in partnership with the sales team
- Support customer projects from a technical and commercial perspective, ensuring adherence to budget and deadlines throughout the project lifecycle
- Plan and coordinate all project activities in line with the MANN+HUMMEL development process (xSEP), ensuring compliance with quality specifications
- Define project organization and lead a cross-functional project team
- Conduct feasibility studies with the project team
- Analyze project risks regarding profitability, timing, technical requirements, and environmental considerations
- Plan project resources and budget, ensuring compliance with the project timeline and budget constraints
- Define Quality Gates and detailed time planning for the project
- Organize kick-off meetings, regular team meetings, and individual communication with stakeholders
- Provide escalation support and necessary decision-making in the steering committee
- Report on Quality Gates in the local steering committee according to the project plan
- Present project updates to customers
- Serve as the primary point of contact for customers regarding the assigned project
- Regularly review project status, identify deviations from Quality Gates, and implement corrective actions
- Continuously coordinate and follow up on open tasks with the project team
Requirements
Education:
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field, OR 5 years minimum related experience with no degree
Experience:
- Minimum of 2 years of relevant program management business experience in the Automotive Passenger-Car and/or Heavy-Duty (On-Road) industry
Required Skills:
- Strong customer orientation and project coordination abilities
- Self-starter who works well independently
- Must have excellent organizational communication skills
- Ability to perform under pressure and manage conflicts effectively
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, ERP systems, and other relevant project management tools
Preferred:
- Experience in the filtration industry is a plus
- SAP ERP experience
- Working knowledge of MANN+HUMMEL products and customer business processes
- Hybrid
US
