Project Manager

We are seeking a results-driven Project Manager to direct automotive manufacturing programs from initiation through production launch. In this role, you will oversee program scheduling, financial management, supplier sourcing, and cross-functional team coordination to ensure all customer milestones, cost targets, and quality standards are met. Key Responsibilities Project Governance & Execution: Direct overall program planning, scheduling, and financial control to achieve client milestones and hit business gross margin targets. Implement and enforce standardized project management gate systems. Supplier & Sourcing Management: Issue and analyze Requests for Quotations (RFQs) for component tooling, materials, and packaging. Lead sourcing decisions, negotiating pricing, payment, and delivery terms with key suppliers. APQP & PPAP Oversight: Initiate and monitor supplier APQP processes, vendor production readiness reviews, and Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) submissions for new award programs. Cost Engineering & Change Management: Drive Value Analysis / Value Engineering (VA/VE) and cost-reduction initiatives in collaboration with engineering and supply chain teams. Manage engineering change requests and cost-impact tracking. Client & Stakeholder Communication: Serve as a primary technical and financial liaison to customers, arbitrating project conflicts and conducting regular program status reviews. Cross-Functional KPI Tracking: Partner across plant management, quality, manufacturing, and logistics to ensure project Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are achieved. Key Qualifications Education & Certifications: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Management, or a related field (MBA or PMI/PMP certification is a strong plus). Experience: Minimum of 5+ years of project management experience with hands-on operational knowledge. Program Management Tools: Strong proficiency in APQP, Stage-Gate program management, and PPAP submission processes. Leadership & Problem-Solving: Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams in a matrixed organization and handle technical/financial conflict resolution. Preferred / Nice-to-Have Prior program management experience within the automotive manufacturing sector. Hands-on familiarity with stamped metal components, welded assemblies, and associated tooling processes. Fluency in English (if non-native speaker). #J-18808-Ljbffr Focus