Program Manager

Job Description Job Description The Program Manager is responsible for leading the execution and performance of one or more programs within Safran's Actuation business. This role serves as the primary interface between customers and internal cross-functional teams, ensuring delivery of commitments related to quality, cost, schedule, and customer satisfaction. Following Safran's recent acquisition of the Actuation business, the Program Manager will also play a key role in supporting business integration, product transfers, and operational stabilization activities. This position requires strong coordination across global teams, including international production sites, the UK Actuation leadership team, and Safran France leadership organizations. Key Responsibilities

• End-to-End Program Leadership
• Lead assigned programs across the full lifecycle, including development, production, and sustainment
• Own program performance across Quality, Cost, Delivery (QCD) metrics
• Establish and manage program scope, schedule, and financial plans to ensure successful execution
• Drive accountability across cross-functional teams to meet program commitments Production & Sustaining Program Execution
• Manage execution of production programs, ensuring on-time delivery (OTD) and quality performance
• Coordinate with operations and supply chain teams to manage: o Line of balance deliveries o Material shortages and production constraints o Backlog recovery plans and prioritization
• Interface with customers on delivery schedules, priorities, and issue resolution Business Integration & Product Transfers
• Support execution of product and industrial transfer activities associated with Actuation integration into Safran
• Coordinate cross-functional and cross-site activities to ensure: o Continuity of supply o Quality performance o Customer delivery commitments
• Contribute to broader business transformation and integration initiatives, including process alignment and operational improvements Technical and Operational Oversight
• Partner with engineering, manufacturing, quality, and supply chain teams to ensure technical and operational execution remains on track
• Support resolution of technical or industrial issues through structured problem-solving and cross-functional coordination
• Monitor program milestones and proactively address risks to schedule and performance Financial and Risk Management
• Manage program financial performance, including: o Cost tracking and control o Variance analysis o Margin performance
• Identify and mitigate program risks and opportunities
• Support development and execution of recovery plans where performance gaps exist Customer & Stakeholder Engagement
• Serve as the primary interface with assigned customers
• Lead program reviews, status updates, and escalation discussions
• Communicate program performance clearly and proactively to both internal and external stakeholders Job Requirements Education /

Experience:

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or related field
• Experience in program management, project management, or a related role within aerospace, manufacturing, or industrial environments
• Strong cross-functional leadership and communication skills
• Ability to manage complex programs with multiple stakeholders Preferred
• Experience in aerospace systems, actuation, or electromechanical products
• Experience supporting industrial transfers, integration efforts, or business transformations
• Experience working with global teams and international stakeholders

Skills and Abilities:

Program Execution & Leadership

• Strong ownership mindset with ability to drive results across functions
• Ability to manage competing priorities and complex program dynamics Technical & Business Acumen
• Understanding of manufacturing, engineering, and supply chain processes
• Financial awareness including cost control and margin performance Communication & Influence
• Ability to communicate effectively with both technical teams and executive stakeholders
• Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills across a global organization Adaptability & Change Management
• Ability to operate effectively in a dynamic, transforming environment
• Comfortable managing ambiguity and driving structure during periods of change

Certifications & Security:

• PMP, Lean, or Six Sigma certifications are a strong plus
• U.

S. citizen with eligibility for obtaining U.S. government clearances, if needed (not required) But what else? (advantages, specific features, etc.)

Additional Information:

• Travel may be required (up to ~25%) to support customer engagements, supplier coordination, and global site alignment
• This role is based in Rockford, IL and supports both local and global program activities Company Information Safran is an international high-technology group, operating in the aviation (propulsion, equipment and interiors), defense and space markets.

Its core purpose is to contribute to a safer, more sustainable world, where air transport is more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Safran has a global presence, with 100,000 employees and sales of 27.3 billion euros in 2024, and holds, alone or in partnership, world or regional leadership positions in its core markets. Safran is in the 2nd place in the aerospace and defense industry in TIME magazine's "World's best companies 2024" ranking. Safran Electronics & Defense offers its customers onboard intelligence solutions allowing them to understand the environment, reduce mental load and guarantee a trajectory, even in critical situations, in all environments: on land, at sea, in the sky or space. The company harnesses the expertise of its 13,000 employees towards these three functions: observe, decide and guide, for the civil and military markets. Locate your future workplace 4747 Harrison Ave, M/S 298-6 61108 Rockford Illinois United States Copy Address