Program Manager - Automotive Passenger-Car / Heavy-Duty (On-Road)

Role Summary

Job Description

This is a Hybrid position based at our locations in either Portage, MI OR Gastonia, NC.

• No Visa sponsorships are available for this position.

The Program Manager will oversee and execute customer development projects, managing all commercial and program-related tasks. This role involves implementing business strategies, maintaining strong business relationships, leading internal teams, managing timelines, and overseeing customer interactions and assigned projects.

Job Responsibilities

• Provide ongoing support to customers for technical issues and ensure high-quality service, including order follow-ups, customer visits, cost/revenue analysis in collaboration with project controlling, and preparing and conducting customer presentations
• Act as a liaison between customers and MANN+HUMMEL departments / production plants for assigned programs
• Prepare and lead price negotiations for assigned projects in partnership with the sales team
• Support customer projects from a technical and commercial perspective, ensuring adherence to budget and deadlines throughout the project lifecycle
• Plan and coordinate all project activities in line with the MANN+HUMMEL development process (xSEP), ensuring compliance with quality specifications
• Define project organization and lead a cross-functional project team
• Conduct feasibility studies with the project team
• Analyze project risks regarding profitability, timing, technical requirements, and environmental considerations
• Plan project resources and budget, ensuring compliance with the project timeline and budget constraints
• Define Quality Gates and detailed time planning for the project
• Organize kick-off meetings, regular team meetings, and individual communication with stakeholders
• Provide escalation support and necessary decision-making in the steering committee
• Report on Quality Gates in the local steering committee according to the project plan
• Present project updates to customers
• Serve as the primary point of contact for customers regarding the assigned project
• Regularly review project status, identify deviations from Quality Gates, and implement corrective actions
• Continuously coordinate and follow up on open tasks with the project team

Requirements

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field, OR 5 years minimum related experience with no degree

Experience:

• Minimum of 2 years of relevant program management business experience in the Automotive Passenger-Car and/or Heavy-Duty (On-Road) industry

Required Skills:

• Strong customer orientation and project coordination abilities
• Self-starter who works well independently
• Must have excellent organizational communication skills
• Ability to perform under pressure and manage conflicts effectively
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, ERP systems, and other relevant project management tools

Preferred:

• Experience in the filtration industry is a plus
• SAP ERP experience
• Working knowledge of MANN+HUMMEL products and customer business processes