Program Manager-Automotive/Tier 1

Program Manager Automotive/Tier 1

Location- Pune, Maharashtra

Qualification- B.E. / B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering
(Post-graduation in Project/Operations Management is an added advantage)

Experience

8–15 years of experience in automotive product / program management
(Engine, Powertrain, Vehicle Systems, Aggregates, or Automotive Components)

Job Purpose

The Program Manager will be responsible for end-to-end ownership of automotive programs, from concept and development through SOP and lifecycle management, ensuring cost, quality, delivery, and performance targets are achieved while coordinating cross-functional teams and customer interfaces.

Key Responsibilities

Program & Project Management

• Lead automotive programs from RFQ / nomination to SOP and post-launch support
• Define and manage program timelines, milestones, deliverables, and budgets
• Track and control program cost, investment, and change management
• Ensure adherence to APQP, PPAP, and product development processes

Cross-Functional Coordination

• Act as the single point of contact for internal stakeholders (Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, SCM, Finance, Sales)
• Coordinate with suppliers and manufacturing teams to ensure on-time readiness
• Resolve cross-functional issues impacting QCD (Quality, Cost, Delivery)

Customer Interface

• Lead customer communication for program status, risks, and change requests
• Manage technical and commercial discussions with OEM / customer teams
• Support customer audits, reviews, and program gate meetings

Risk & Issue Management

• Identify program risks early and implement mitigation plans
• Drive resolution of technical, quality, supply chain, and launch issues
• Ensure corrective and preventive actions are implemented effectively

Launch & Lifecycle Management

• Ensure manufacturing readiness, SOP compliance, and ramp-up support
• Monitor post-SOP performance and drive continuous improvement initiatives
• Manage product changes, cost reduction, and value engineering activities

Key Skills & Competencies

Technical & Domain Skills

• Strong understanding of automotive product development
• Knowledge of engines, powertrain, vehicle systems, or automotive components
• Familiar with APQP, PPAP, FMEA, DFMEA, PFMEA, Control Plans
• Understanding of manufacturing processes and supply chain dynamics

Program Management Skills

• Expertise in project planning, scheduling, and tracking
• Experience with cost management and investment control
• Strong risk management and problem-solving capabilities

Behavioural & Leadership Skills

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to lead cross-functional and multi-location teams
• Strong decision-making, negotiation, and conflict-resolution skills
• Customer-focused mindset with high ownership and accountability

Tools & Systems

• MS Project / Windchill / equivalent project management tools
• ERP systems (SAP preferred)
• MS Excel, PowerPoint for program reporting and reviews