Program Manager, Special Projects

Zwiesel Fortessa Americas LLC, a leading global tableware company, seeks a Program Manager to lead special project initiatives from concept through delivery. This role manages concurrent projects, ensuring timelines, deliverables, and approvals stay on track across cross-functional teams (Sales, Marketing, Product, Vendor Relations, Quality Control, Creative, Finance, Operations, Supply Planning) and external vendors. The Program Manager acts as a connector—driving alignment, removing obstacles, and maintaining project momentum with strong attention to detail, proactive communication, and risk management. As a daily representative of Zwiesel Fortessa, the role reflects the company’s professionalism, reliability, and core values. Responsibilities Manage assigned special projects from start to finish. Develop and maintain detailed timelines; ensure milestones such as samples, costing, reviews, and inspections are met. Lead regular status meetings and milestone reviews to drive accountability. Proactively identify risks, escalate concerns, and present timely, practical solutions. Collaborate across internal functions and with external vendors to ensure project success. Coordinate with Sales Leadership to incorporate margin targets and pricing feedback early in development. Maintain alignment with brand quality standards and ensure documentation is accurate and up to date. Coordinate review of samples and prototypes; document and route internal feedback; address feasibility challenges without compromising design integrity. Communicate specifications clearly to vendors and track approvals and deliveries to keep projects on schedule. Support sourcing diversification and vendor transitions in line with company goals. Represent Zwiesel Fortessa professionally in all external communications. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree required; preferred in Business, Product Development, or related field. 3–5 years of relevant experience in project or product management, ideally in consumer goods. Proven success managing cross-functional development projects from concept to launch. Strong organizational and project management skills with exceptional attention to detail. Clear, concise communicator across written, verbal, and visual formats. Technical & Tool Proficiency Proficient in Microsoft Office; experience with project management tools (e.g., Asana, Smartsheet). Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite and technical drawings preferred. Comfortable using ERP, PLM, and BI systems for product and business data. Other Requirements Occasional domestic and international travel required. Ability to work beyond standard hours during peak project periods; reasonable accommodations apply. Ability to lift and handle product and packaging samples up to 40 lbs as needed. Key Competencies & Behaviors Proactive, detail-oriented problem solver with strong follow-through. Collaborative team player with ability to manage across levels and functions. Customer- and brand-centric mindset with high personal ownership. Adaptable, self-motivated, and focused in a dynamic, evolving environment. Professionalism and integrity in all interactions. Compensation & Benefits The anticipated salary range for this position is $60,000–$75,000 annually. Actual compensation will be determined based on scope, responsibilities, experience, and current market conditions. Eligible employees may receive quarterly bonus opportunities based on individual and company performance. Benefits include medical, life, and disability insurance; a 401(k) plan with company match; company-paid holidays; and paid time off (PTO). All information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. #J-18808-Ljbffr