Overview
Piston Interiors- Program Manager to lead automotive interior programs from award through launch and production. This position serves as the primary liaison between the customer, internal cross-functional teams, and manufacturing operations to ensure successful execution of program objectives related to quality, cost, timing, and profitability.
Responsibilities
- Facilitate the PMT process by calling the PMT meetings and Gate review meetings and following up on issues before and after the PMT meetings; Ensure proper Plant personnel are informed and attend.
- Maintain all PM schedules and customer documents as required. Use the database when appropriate.
- Translate customer program requirements into achievable program plans that satisfy both Piston Interiors and the customer. Inform customers in writing when program milestones are in jeopardy and provide recovery plans.
- Ensure program meets cost targets for each build event and/or ensuring cost recovery for engineering changes.
- Manage pre-production build events with timelines, material orders/trackers and sample requests to support build quantities/trackers.
- Manage the engineering change process by tracking the associated quoting, PI, EO, tool completion, and plant readiness activities.
- Develop plans and track the completion of APQP and PPAP information.
- Adhere to and promote the quality certification process.
- Resolve cross-functional issues by taking charge and making timely decisions based on facts; maintain team stability by keeping the team focused on the appropriate issues and engage Piston Interiors PM management as required.
- Use sound judgment and provide risk assessment/viable countermeasures to Piston Interiors PM management early enough to allow for proper assistance when required.
- Active interface with OEM and Tier 1 customers and suppliers.
- Visit customer locations & plants during major milestone events to support the teams when required. Some travel to Mexico and locally.
- Participate in improving the Program Management Department by performing special projects and achieving agreed upon objectives.
- Participate and drive to closure of cost savings and PIP projects, annually.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Supply Chain, or related field.
- 3–5 years of Program Management experience within a Tier 1 or Tier 2 automotive supplier.
- Experience managing programs for OEM customers such as Ford Motor Company, or Stellantis.
- Knowledge of APQP, PPAP, FMEA, and automotive launch processes.
- Strong project management and organizational skills.
- Experience leading cross-functional teams.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and customer-facing skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and project management tools.
Preferred:
- Experience with automotive interiors, seating, trim, textiles, or soft goods.
- Familiarity with IATF 16949 and OEM customer-specific requirements.
- Experience managing multiple programs simultaneously.
