What are the responsibilities and job description for the Automotive Program Manager position at Essex Solutions?
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced Program Manager to lead complex, cross-functional programs serving our automotive customers. In this role, you will act as the primary interface between internal teams and key OEM and Tier 1 automotive clients—driving project execution, ensuring delivery excellence, and fostering long-term partnerships.
The ideal candidate has a strong background in program management, automotive industry experience, and the ability to balance technical, commercial, and operational priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities
Required:
We are seeking an experienced Program Manager to lead complex, cross-functional programs serving our automotive customers. In this role, you will act as the primary interface between internal teams and key OEM and Tier 1 automotive clients—driving project execution, ensuring delivery excellence, and fostering long-term partnerships.
The ideal candidate has a strong background in program management, automotive industry experience, and the ability to balance technical, commercial, and operational priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Customer Management: Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned automotive customers, ensuring satisfaction through proactive communication and high-quality delivery.
- Program Leadership: Plan, execute, and deliver programs from concept through launch—meeting quality, cost, and timing objectives.
- Cross-Functional Coordination: Collaborate with engineering, supply chain, manufacturing, quality, and sales teams to ensure alignment and successful execution.
- Project Planning & Tracking: Develop and manage detailed program timelines, budgets, and risk mitigation plans.
- Change Management: Manage engineering change requests (ECRs) and ensure scope changes are effectively controlled and communicated.
- Performance Reporting: Track KPIs, report progress to leadership and customers, and drive issue resolution to closure.
- Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities to streamline program processes and enhance customer satisfaction.
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or related field.
- 5 years of program or project management experience, preferably in the automotive industry.
- Proven track record managing complex, multi-disciplinary programs.
- Strong understanding of automotive product development cycles (APQP, PPAP, etc.).
- Excellent communication, presentation, and customer relationship skills.
- Proficiency in project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Monday.com or equivalent).
- Customer-focused mindset with strong sense of accountability.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
- Data-driven problem solver with strategic thinking skills.