Program Manager

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 validation
• Ensure readiness across Man, Machine, Material, and Quality prior to SOP
• Coordinate PPAP activities in collaboration with Quality and Engineering teams
• Support capacity planning, staffing readiness, and production ramp-up activities
• Work closely with Operations to ensure programs transition smoothly into steady-state production

Client & Supplier Interface

• Act as the primary point of contact for customers on program-related matters
• Manage communication with Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers to ensure alignment on timing, scope, and deliverables
• Support sourcing activities, supplier selection, and supplier performance tracking
• Present program status, risks, and financials to customer and senior leadership forums

Material 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 layouts
• Ensure material flow systems are designed to support production volumes, quality, and cost targets

Financial & Performance Management

• Track program budgets, investment roll-ups, and cost targets
• Monitor program KPIs related to delivery, quality, and cost
• Support financial reporting, change management, and cost recovery initiatives as required

Required Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in automotive manufacturing, with direct Program Management or Launch leadership experience
• Proven background managing programs through pre-production, PPAP, and full production
• Strong understanding of automotive manufacturing environments, including assembly, machining, stamping, or related processes
• Experience working cross-functionally with Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and Operations
• Familiarity with IATF 16949, ISO 9001, and structured launch frameworks
• Strong communication skills with the ability to present to customers and senior leadership
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple programs in parallel within fast-paced environments

Preferred / Asset Qualifications

• OEM or Tier 1 automotive experience (FCA/Stellantis, Magna, or similar)
• Exposure to pilot builds, vertical launches, or new product introductions
• Experience with material flow design, PFEP, Kanban, or lean manufacturing systems
• Background in Production, Industrial Engineering, or Quality prior to Program Management
• Formal training or certification in Project or Program Management
• Bachelor'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 programs
• Strong collaboration across Engineering, Operations, and Leadership teams
• Stable, long-term manufacturing environment with advanced technology
• Competitive compensation and benefits package
• Opportunity to influence programs at a plant and enterprise level