Manager of Programs (Simpson)

Summary:

The Manager of Programs role is a highly experienced and autonomous Program Management professional who serves as a subject matter expert (SME) in all aspects of program management for the organization. This role is designed for individuals who excel in high-paced, dynamic factory operations environment, where innovation, adaptability, and technical expertise are critical to meeting the assigned programmatic cost, schedule, and performance requirements. The Manager of Programs, as a SME in all programmatic matters, operates independently while supervising a team of project and program managers, driving complex, high-impact programs to successful outcomes while providing thought leadership and technical guidance across Gentex’s Helmet and Optics Value Streams in Carbondale, PA.

Duties / Responsibilities:

• Foster effective communication channels with peers, stakeholders, and the wider business to ensure engagement, support, and successful delivery of project outcomes.
• Collect and consolidate project status updates, providing inputs for key project management tools such as Integrated Master Plans, Risk Registers, Monthly Status Reports, Executive Program Reports, and Financial Reports. Lead program teams through program monitor and control activities.
• Organize and lead bid and proposal activities for both domestic and foreign solicitations.
• Conduct detailed contract review and support contract negotiations prior to contract award(s).
• Support contract and program budgeting, development of basis of estimate and established execution of overall programmatic baselines.
• Lead customer interaction and support for externally funded efforts IAW contracted scope.
• Ensure adherence to proper procedures for managing project risks (opportunities and threats), issues, and dependencies. Drive risk mitigation after thorough analysis and establish burn down plans.
• Clearly communicate project status, decision requests, identified risks/issues, and recommended actions to relevant stakeholders.
• Deliver regular status and reporting updates to Product Management, Engineering Management, and Business Development upon request.
• Coordinate the compilation of inputs for monthly status reports at the project and program levels.
• Execute assigned tasks in strict accordance with established company procedures and work instructions, adhering to ISO 9001/AS 9100 standards.
• Fulfill any other duties as assigned by the organization.

The Preferred experience for this role is: 

Experience: 15+ years of experience in program management, with a strong focus on aerospace R&D in high-paced environments (experience with Military or Law Enforcement products is a must)

Certifications: PfMP (Portfolio Management Professional) or equivalent certification is highly desired.

Technical Expertise: Deep understanding of program management methodologies and tools (e.g. schedule management, risk registers, and enterprise resource planning systems)

Education: Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Business Management, or a related field, or demonstrated equivalent professional experience (typically 15+ years) in program management. Master’s degree preferred

Knowledge and Skills of the Ideal Candidate:

1. Team Leadership: The Manager of Programs primarily operates both as an independent subject matter expert while also delivering supervisory responsibilities to ensure effective team collaboration and alignment with Value Stream(s) objectives. These duties include:

• Provide guidance and mentorship to Senior Program Managers, Program Managers, Senior Project Managers and Project Managers within the Helmet and Optics Value Streams.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive team environment that encourages innovation, professional growth, and accountability.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive feedback to team members
• Define program objectives, success criteria, and deliverables in alignment with requirements
• Ensure programs are delivered on time, within scope, and budget, while meeting performance requirements and quality standards

2. Subject Matter Expertise: Serve as the go-to expert in all areas of program management methodologies, tools, and best practices.

• Provide technical and strategic guidance to cross-functional teams, ensuring alignment with program goals and customer requirements
• Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and advancements in program management

3. Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including engineering teams, operations managers, executives, and customers.

• Act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership, providing insights and recommendations on program strategy and execution
• Facilitate effective communication and collaboration across diverse teams and departments

4. Innovation and Problem Solving: Drive innovation within programs by identifying opportunities for process improvements, cost savings, and efficiency gains.

• Solve complex problems and address challenges proactively, leveraging technical expertise and creative thinking
• Develop and implement risk mitigation strategies to prevent issues from impacting success

5. Independent Operation: Operate with a high degree of autonomy, managing priorities and making decisions in fast-paced, ambiguous environments where direction is needed the most.

• Take ownership of program outcomes, demonstrating accountability and a results-driven mindset.
• Balance competing demands and adapt to changing circumstances with agility and resilience.

6. Knowledge Sharing and Mentorship: Share knowledge and expertise with peers and junior team members, fostering a culture of continuous learning.

• Contribute to the development of program management standards, tools, and frameworks within the organization.

7. Results-Driven: A strong focus on delivering tangible outcomes and achieving measurable results in a proactive and efficient manner.

8. Adaptability in a Fast-Paced Environment: The ability to thrive and perform effectively in a dynamic and fast-paced organizational setting, skillfully managing competing priorities and demands.

9. Business Acumen: Confidence and capability in engaging with individuals at all levels of a business, demonstrating professionalism, credibility, and sound judgment.

Communication with Others:

• Internal: Regularly collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, quality staff, and various departments within the organization daily, fostering effective communication and teamwork.
• External: Engages in necessary communication with external parties, including Government personnel, suppliers, subcontractors, and customers, ensuring clear and concise interactions that uphold professional standards and facilitate productive relationships.

Physical/Mental Requirements:

• Desk-based Work: The ability to perform primary job tasks while seated at a desk for extended periods.
• Physical Mobility: Occasional requirements to stand, walk, and move within the office environment.
• Manual Dexterity: Proficiency in using hands for typing, operating computer systems, and handling documents and office equipment.
• Visual Acuity: Strong visual abilities, including close vision for reading documents and computer screens, and the ability to adjust focus as needed.
• Mental Focus: Ability to concentrate and maintain mental clarity while working in a primarily desk-based environment.

Work Environment:

Works majority of the day in a climate-controlled environment, with the exception of occasionally performing work in the warehouse, which is subject to moderate changes in temperature.

TRAVEL:

Limited travel required

LOCATION:

Gentex’s Carbondale facility is located in Northeastern Pennsylvania in Lackawanna County. Carbondale, PA is about twenty miles north of Scranton, PA, 50 miles south of Binghamton, NY, and about 125 miles from New York City and Philadelphia. The area hosts numerous nearby state parks, nature preserves and local colleges and universities, including The University of Scranton and Marywood University. Northeast Pennsylvania is a beautiful area and offers an excellent cost of living. It is a great place to work, meet people, raise a family and live!

Gentex Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard for any applicable state or federal protected class. Gentex is an E-Verify Participant. Pre-employment drug/alcohol/background screening is required.

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