Senior Program Manager – Vehicle Product Development
Location: Nappanee, Indiana (Onsite)
Seeking an experienced Senior Program Manager to lead complex vehicle product development programs across multiple platforms. This role is ideal for a hands-on program management leader with strong people leadership, deep understanding of vehicle systems, and a passion for driving programs from concept through launch.
Key Responsibilities
Program Management Leadership
- Lead the Program Management function, managing and mentoring 2–3 Program Managers / Project Coordinators
- Allocate programs and resources to ensure balanced workload and optimal execution
- Standardize program management processes, templates, documentation, and reporting
Program & Portfolio Execution
- Oversee execution of multiple product development programs across vehicle platforms
- Drive alignment across scope, schedule, cost, quality, and risk with cross-functional teams
- Act as the escalation point for program-level risks, issues, and critical decisions
- Ensure adherence to the stage-gate product development process from concept through post-launch review
Stage-Gate Governance
- Lead gate review preparation and milestone planning
- Facilitate decision-making forums and executive reviews
- Ensure high-quality, consistent deliverables across all development phases
- Implement process improvements and maintain compliance with PMO standards
Communication & Executive Reporting
- Provide consolidated program status updates to senior leadership
- Prepare and deliver executive-level presentations
- Serve as a key interface with internal teams, customers, and external stakeholders
Industry-Specific Execution
- Guide execution across vehicle systems including interior, exterior, electrical, and chassis
- Ensure compliance with FMVSS, RVIA, and other applicable regulations
- Oversee prototype builds, pilot production, and launch readiness activities
Continuous Improvement
- Identify opportunities to improve execution efficiency and resource utilization
- Recommend enhancements to PMO tools, processes, and stage-gate frameworks
- Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or related field
- 5+ years of experience in project or program management
- Prior experience in automotive, heavy truck, RV, or complex manufacturing environments preferred
- Proven ability to lead teams and mentor direct reports
- Strong experience with stage-gate / NPI product development frameworks
- Solid understanding of vehicle systems and development lifecycles
- Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills
- Proficiency with program management tools such as MS Project, Smartsheet, or Jira
- Ability to manage multiple complex programs in a fast-paced environment
