Program Manager

Program ManagerThis 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 presentationsAct as a liaison between customers and MANN+HUMMEL departments / production plants for assigned programsPrepare and lead price negotiations for assigned projects in partnership with the sales teamSupport customer projects from a technical and commercial perspective, ensuring adherence to budget and deadlines throughout the project lifecyclePlan and coordinate all project activities in line with the MANN+HUMMEL development process (xSEP), ensuring compliance with quality specificationsDefine project organization and lead a cross-functional project teamConduct feasibility studies with the project teamAnalyze project risks regarding profitability, timing, technical requirements, and environmental considerationsPlan project resources and budget, ensuring compliance with the project timeline and budget constraintsDefine Quality Gates and detailed time planning for the projectOrganize kick-off meetings, regular team meetings, and individual communication with stakeholdersProvide escalation support and necessary decision-making in the steering committeeReport on Quality Gates in the local steering committee according to the project planPresent project updates to customersServe as the primary point of contact for customers regarding the assigned projectRegularly review project status, identify deviations from Quality Gates, and implement corrective actionsContinuously coordinate and follow up on open tasks with the project teamRequirements:Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field, OR 5 years minimum related experience with no degreeExperience: Minimum of 2 years of relevant program management business experience in the Automotive Passenger-Car and/or Heavy-Duty (On-Road) industryRequired 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 toolsPreferred: Experience in the filtration industry is a plus. SAP ERP experience. Working knowledge of MANN+HUMMEL products and customer business processes