Program Manager, Automation

Role Description

The Program Manager, Automation, North America (Contract Logistics) is responsible for leading the strategy, design and delivery of cost-effective, scalable, and end-to-end innovative automation and mechanized technologies for both existing and prospective DSV clients that enhance operational efficiency, productivity, and overall solution competitiveness.

This leader ensures alignment between technical design and operational execution, driving successful deployments from concept through go-live while maintaining a strong focus on operational performance, cost optimization, and continuous improvement. Acting at the intersection of technology and operations, this role combines expertise in automation systems, warehouse management systems (WMS), system integration, engineering design, and project and change management. The position oversees the implementation of automation solutions by partnering with cross-functional teams across engineering, operations, IT, and external vendors to ensure seamless integration into new and existing client operations.

• Lead the analysis, design, and deployment of innovative automation and mechanized solutions for new and existing operations.
• Partner with Solution Design teams to develop competitive RFP responses, including automation selection, budgeting, and productivity modeling.
• Own end-to-end automation lifecycle: solution design, vendor selection, capital planning, building uplift, layout development, and implementation.
• Conduct ROI analysis to identify and justify automation investments that improve efficiency and meet financial targets.
• Manage vendor relationships across design, design and SLA contracting, installation, testing, and post-go-live support.
• Oversee cross-functional implementation, including vendor integration, system configuration, testing, and operational readiness.
• Serve as liaison between vendors and internal stakeholders to ensure alignment on design, scope, and execution.
• Lead automation design reviews, detail engineering discussions, and cross-functional alignment on system functionality and workflows, including exception handling.
• Develop and execute test strategies, including functional and technical validation, and performance verification.
• Drive training programs across operations, safety, maintenance, and support teams for new automation systems.
• Support go-live execution, hypercare, and transition to steady-state operations.
• Establish and maintain project governance, documentation, and change management processes.
• Identify and implement automation continuous improvement opportunities and capture lessons learned.
• Evaluate emerging automation technologies, robotics, and AI solutions to enhance operational performance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5+ years of experience in the warehouse/logistics industry, including 3+ years in automation engineering or a closely related role.
• Proven experience designing and deploying automated warehouse solutions, including expertise in material flow, information flow, intelligent automation, and cognitive platforms.
• Strong blend of business, operations, system integration, and technology design experience, with a focus on developing scalable and resilient automation solutions within warehouse environments.
• Demonstrated success in developing and presenting business cases and ROI analyses to support executive-level decision-making.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex data and drive informed decisions.
• Experience leading end-to-end automation implementations in both greenfield and brownfield environments.
• Proven ability to lead and collaborate with cross-functional teams from concept design through implementation and go-live.
• Hands-on experience with automation integration infrastructure, including networks and communication systems.
• Experience developing and executing automation test plans, including system validation and performance testing.
• Broad exposure to warehouse automation technologies, including sortation systems, AMRs/AGVs, voice picking, pick-to-light, and conveyor systems.
• Working knowledge of Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and their integration with automation platforms.
• Self-driven with the ability to work independently while contributing effectively in team environments.
• Proven ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

Requirements

• Proficiency in understanding programming logic.
• Microsoft Project, Excel, Visio, AutoCAD LT, Word & PowerPoint, PowerBI.

Communication Skills

• Fluent in English (reading, writing, and verbal communication).
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to actively listen, convey complex ideas clearly, and engage diverse audiences.
• Strong facilitation skills with the ability to lead discussions, drive alignment, and influence stakeholders across all levels of the organization.
• Proven ability to build collaborative relationships with cross-functional teams, vendors, and leadership through clear, professional, and effective communication.

Physical Demands

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee uses his/her hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, or crouch; talk or hear.
• The employee uses computer and telephone equipment. Specific vision requirements of this job include close vision and distance vision.
• May require physical effort associated with using the computer to access information, or occasional standing, walking, lifting needed to carry out everyday activities.
• Travel is required for this role domestically and internationally.

Work Environment

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee rarely is exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate.

Compensation

For this position, the expected base pay range is $130,000.00 – $145,000.00 Annually. Actual compensation will be determined based on job-related factors such as relevant experience, skills, education, certifications, and geographic location, in accordance with applicable laws and company policy.