Automotive Launch Manager

Position Summary

The Launch Manager is responsible for leading and coordinating new product launches from program award through successful production ramp-up within a Tier 1 automotive manufacturing environment. This role ensures production readiness, cross-functional alignment, and flawless execution of APQP and PPAP requirements while meeting customer timing, cost, and quality expectations.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Launch & Execution

• Lead new product launch activities from design release through SOP (Start of Production)
• Develop and manage launch timing plans, milestones, and deliverables
• Coordinate cross-functional teams including Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Operations
• Serve as primary plant interface for OEM and customer launch teams

• Support and ensure completion of APQP deliverables:
• • PFMEA / DFMEA participation
  • Process Flow Diagrams (PFD)
  • Control Plans
  • MSA & SPC implementation
• Lead PPAP preparation, submission, and approval activities
• Coordinate Run Rate and capacity validation events
• Manage Safe Launch / GP-12 containment activities
• Capture and implement lessons learned for continuous improvement

• Coordinate installation, validation, and commissioning of production equipment and tooling
• Support tooling kickoff, mold tryouts, and tool debug (T0–T3 trials)
• Validate manufacturing processes and ensure readiness for production ramp-up
• Develop work instructions and support standard work creation
• Participate in line balancing, cycle time optimization, and OEE improvement initiatives
• Verify manufacturing feasibility and capacity planning

• Collaborate with suppliers to ensure tooling and component readiness
• Support supplier APQP and supplier PPAP activities
• Participate in customer launch readiness reviews and on-site support as required
• Provide regular status updates to customers and internal leadership
• Support TS16949 Initiatives.

• Maximize company profitability while providing high value to the customer.
• Maintain the confidentiality of the company and its business.
• Participate in the sourcing of tooling and equipment for new programs, working with the Production Buyer, Tooling Engineer, Quality Engineer & Process Engineer.
• Advise Program Manager to invoice customer when appropriate.

• 3 years of experience in automotive manufacturing or Tier 1 supplier environment
• Strong knowledge of APQP, PPAP, and automotive core tools
• Experience launching new products into production
• Excellent project management and cross-functional coordination skills
• Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven manufacturing environment

With over 30 years of industry experience and a footprint spanning 10 United States locations, Creative Liquid Coatings is a powerhouse in integrated manufacturing. We bridge the gap between complex plastic injection molding and world-class automated finishing, utilizing a fleet of over 150 machines ranging from 85 to 5,000 tons. Our versatile paint lines accommodate a wide range of component sizes, providing a seamless, end-to-end production solution that combines massive scale with precision engineering for the most demanding industrial applications.