Program Manager

Company: #1 market share leader globally in their product area. Position Summary The Program Manager is responsible for the successful planning, execution, and launch of Ford customer programs. This role serves as the primary customer interface and internal program leader to ensure on-time, on-budget, high-quality delivery while meeting all Ford-specific requirements. Key Responsibilities Lead cross-functional program teams from RFQ/award through production launch and continuous improvement for Ford programs. Develop, maintain, and drive program timing plans, budgets, open issues lists, and risk mitigation plans. Serve as the primary point of contact with Ford; manage customer meetings, status reporting, change management, and relationship development. Coordinate activities across Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, Purchasing, Sales, and Finance (U.S. and global sites as needed). Ensure compliance with Ford-specific requirements, APQP, PPAP, and IATF 16949 processes. Identify and resolve program issues promptly, driving root-cause analysis and corrective actions. Prepare and present program status updates to internal leadership and Ford stakeholders. Support launch readiness reviews, gate reviews, and post-launch performance monitoring. Contribute to continuous improvement of program management processes and tools. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree (4-year degree) in Engineering, Business, Supply Chain, or related field. Minimum 5 years of program/project management experience in the automotive industry, preferably with Tier 1 suppliers. Demonstrated experience managing OEM customer programs, ideally with Ford. Strong working knowledge of APQP, PPAP, and automotive product launch processes. Excellent communication, organization, problem-solving, and customer-facing skills. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and program management tools. Ability to travel as required within the Detroit metro area and occasionally to customer or plant locations. Must be a U.S. Citizen, Permanent Resident, or Green Card holder. Preferred Qualifications Experience with anti-vibration systems, rubber products, or chassis/NVH components. PMP certification or equivalent project management credentials. This position is based in the Detroit metroplex and requires regular on-site presence to support Ford program activities and cross-functional collaboration. #J-18808-Ljbffr