Launch Manager

Cooper-Standard Automotive•Spring Lake, MI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

As a key member of the plant leadership team, the Launch Manager is responsible for driving strategic direction and execution of all new business and product launches. This role leads cross-functional teams, aligns launch activities with organizational goals, and ensures that all deliverables meet or exceed company and customer expectations. The Launch Manager is a visible leader, championing operational excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement throughout the plant.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in manufacturing or industrial engineering or related field
8 years in manufacturing or program management in the production environment
Demonstrated success in leading complex product launches and cross-functional teams
Strategic thinking and leadership
Advanced knowledge of lean manufacturing and process optimization
Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making skills
Outstanding communication and stakeholder management abilities
Proficiency in project management and digital manufacturing tools (Word, Excel, Project, AutoCAD)

Responsibilities

Provide vision and leadership for all launch activities, ensuring alignment with plant and corporate strategy.
Serve as a key advisor to the Plant Manager and executive team on launch readiness, risk mitigation, and resource allocation.
Lead, mentor, and develop high-performing teams across engineering, manufacturing, quality, and supply chain to deliver successful launches.
Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Oversee the quoting-to-launch process, ensuring all activities are executed with precision, timeliness, and financial discipline.
Manage complex program timelines and resolve critical issues impacting launch success.
Champion the development and implementation of advanced manufacturing methods, equipment, and processes.
Drive adoption of lean principles, digital tools, and best practices to optimize efficiency and quality.
Serve as the primary point of contact for customers during launch phases.
Ensure customer requirements are understood, communicated, and met.
Lead critical events such as run-at-rate, PPAP, and MRDs.
Ensure all manufacturing and process engineering documentation is created, updated, and maintained to the highest standards.
Oversee preventive maintenance, process flow diagrams, PFMEA, and tooling authorization.
Apply statistical methods and data-driven decision-making to solve problems and drive improvements.
Lead cost reduction initiatives and support ISO 9001 & IATF 16949 certification efforts.
Uphold and advance health, safety, and housekeeping standards.
Ensure compliance with all corporate and plant-level policies and regulations.