A Program Manager manages ongoing program activity or a group of related projects for a company or organization. Responsibilities include developing program plans, defining project objectives, allocating resources, managing budgets, and monitoring program progress. They may work in production, administration, advertising/marketing, human resources, technology, finance, and other technical areas such as engineering.
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 #LI - Hybrid