Sr. Manager, Vehicle Program Operations

Overview
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Senior Manager to lead cross-functional teams in the execution of vehicle programs and the continuous improvement of our Product Development Process (PDP). This role combines a blend of strategic program oversight with people management responsibilities. You will work with engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and other stakeholders to update and implement the next PDP revision, enabling the delivery of industry-leading electric vehicles that exceed customer expectations. 

Responsibilities

• Lead the cross-functional vehicle product development process from conceptual design to market introduction.
• Drive adoption and continuous improvement of the Product Development Process across engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and other departments.
• Manage a prioritized PDP program portfolio aligned with vehicle program objectives.
• Collaborate with Marketing, Sales, and Strategy teams to align long-term product plans and prioritize workload.
• Oversee technical product descriptions, ensuring timely development, integration, and validation of features.
• Manage vehicle financials including bill of materials, prototype budgets, and resource allocation.
• Define and maintain dashboard KPIs aligned to vehicle program and product OKRs.
• Facilitate cross-functional workshops and training programs to support process improvements.
• Implement program management best practices and tools, including configuration management.
• Lead a team of program managers and provide mentorship and performance oversight.
• Report program performance to executive leadership and proactively identify and mitigate risks.
• Drive continuous improvement using Six Sigma, Lean, APQP, and other methodologies.

Skills and Qualifications

• Proven experience in leading or supporting system implementation and digitization initiatives, including evaluating business needs, selecting appropriate technologies, and driving successful adoption across teams.
• 8+ years of experience in technical leadership, systems engineering, or program management.
• 10+ years of professional experience in the automotive industry.
• Strong organizational and communication skills with a proven ability to deliver projects on time.
• Experience in hardware development, integration, and validation.
• Proficiency in project management tools such as Jira, Confluence, and Smartsheets.
• Demonstrated ability to influence and secure buy-in from executives and cross-functional leaders.
• Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability in dynamic environments.
• Ability to travel as needed.
  
  

Education

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, business management, or a related technical discipline.
• Master’s degree in engineering or business management/administration is advantageous.