Program Manager
Belleville, ON | Full-Time, Permanent
Compensation : $90,000–$100,000
Vacancy Status : This posting is for an existing vacancy
About The Role
Our automotive client is seeking an experienced Program Manager to lead complex automotive programs from early concept through full production launch. This role sits at the intersection of Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, Quality, and Customer teams, and plays a critical role in ensuring programs are delivered on time, within scope, and to cost and quality targets.
This position is ideal for a hands‑on Program Manager with deep automotive launch experience who understands how to translate customer requirements into executable manufacturing and material flow solutions.
Key Responsibilities
Program Leadership & Execution
- Own end-to-end program management for assigned automotive programs, from quotation and pre-production through PPAP and full production ramp-up
- Develop and manage detailed program timelines, deliverables, and milestone tracking
- Lead cross‑functional program teams including Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, and external suppliers
- Chair regular program reviews and open‑issue meetings with internal stakeholders and customers
- Identify program risks early and drive mitigation plans to ensure launch success
Launch & Manufacturing Readiness
Support new program launches including pilot builds, pre‑production trials, and production validationEnsure readiness across Man, Machine, Material, and Quality prior to SOPCoordinate PPAP activities in collaboration with Quality and Engineering teamsSupport capacity planning, staffing readiness, and production ramp‑up activitiesWork closely with Operations to ensure programs transition smoothly into steady‑state productionClient & Supplier Interface
Act as the primary point of contact for customers on program‑related mattersManage communication with Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers to ensure alignment on timing, scope, and deliverablesSupport sourcing activities, supplier selection, and supplier performance trackingPresent program status, risks, and financials to customer and senior leadership forumsMaterial Flow, Logistics & Process Design
Support the development and implementation of lean material flow solutions (Kanban, FIFO, JIT)Collaborate with Industrial Engineering and Logistics teams on PFEP, packaging design, and line‑side layoutsEnsure material flow systems are designed to support production volumes, quality, and cost targetsFinancial & Performance Management
Track program budgets, investment roll‑ups, and cost targetsMonitor program KPIs related to delivery, quality, and costSupport financial reporting, change management, and cost recovery initiatives as requiredRequired Qualifications
8+ years of experience in automotive manufacturing, with direct Program Management or Launch leadership experienceProven background managing programs through pre‑production, PPAP, and full productionStrong understanding of automotive manufacturing environments, including assembly, machining, stamping, or related processesExperience working cross‑functionally with Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and OperationsFamiliarity with IATF 16949, ISO 9001, and structured launch frameworksStrong communication skills with the ability to present to customers and senior leadershipDemonstrated ability to manage multiple programs in parallel within fast‑paced environmentsPreferred / Asset Qualifications
OEM or Tier 1 automotive experience (FCA / Stellantis, Magna, or similar)Exposure to pilot builds, vertical launches, or new product introductionsExperience with material flow design, PFEP, Kanban, or lean manufacturing systemsBackground in Production, Industrial Engineering, or Quality prior to Program ManagementFormal training or certification in Project or Program ManagementBachelor’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Technology, or related discipline(Master’s in Engineering Management or Operations considered a strong asset)Why Apply?
High‑visibility role supporting complex automotive programsStrong collaboration across Engineering, Operations, and Leadership teamsStable, long‑term manufacturing environment with advanced technologyCompetitive compensation and benefits packageOpportunity to influence programs at a plant and enterprise level#J-18808-Ljbffr
