Program Manager

Dana Incorporated•Maumee, OH

14d

About The Position

The Program Manager leads and oversees development programs for Light Vehicle Drive Systems within the Ford Business Team, including new product launches, replacements, footprint activities, and major resourcing initiatives. The role manages programs from concept through launch and ensures execution meets customer expectations and business objectives. It requires leadership, cross-functional coordination, and a strategic approach to program delivery. The Program Manager coordinates teams and stakeholders across Engineering, Quality, Operations, and Purchasing; manages program plans, schedules, scope, budgets, and deliverables; and serves as the primary liaison with customers. The role also oversees production equipment and tooling design, installation, and validation, supports supplier negotiations and program cash flow, and leads functional and senior-management Stage Gate reviews. The position provides extended support to operations, quality, and engineering as needed.

Requirements

At least 5 years of experience as a Program Manager in a multinational, matrixed organization.
Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Business, Operations, or a related field.
Strong knowledge of APQP and program management methodologies.
Proficiency in financial analysis and budget management.
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 and presentation tools.
Proven ability to manage complex negotiations and achieve successful outcomes.
Skills in cross-functional team leadership and matrix management.
Comfort operating at senior management levels.
Strong organizational, problem-solving, planning, and decision-making skills.
Self-driven, proactive, and committed to continuous improvement.
Demonstrates ownership, accountability, and a collaborative team spirit.

Nice To Haves

Multilingual capabilities in French, German, Spanish, or Italian.

Responsibilities

Lead and manage Light Vehicle Drive Systems programs from concept through launch, including footprint and resourcing activities.
Assemble and guide cross-functional program teams and develop program plans and work breakdown structures.
Ensure program deliverables meet design, quality, production, financial, and timing requirements.
Maintain project schedules and timing charts aligned with customer and internal expectations.
Facilitate team meetings and program status reviews, driving accountability across Engineering, Quality, Operations, and Purchasing.
Communicate program status across the organization and with external stakeholders.
Identify and resolve program issues using root cause analysis and change management processes.
Serve as the primary customer liaison, represent program interests, and participate in customer meetings.
Monitor program scope, budget, and schedule for compliance with customer specifications.
Coordinate staffing needs with functional departments.
Oversee the design, installation, and validation of production equipment and tooling, ensuring compliance with relevant codes and standards.
Collaborate with Purchasing on pricing, warranty, and delivery targets and support supplier negotiations as needed.
Optimize program cash flow through timely purchase order coordination and budget management.
Provide extended support to operations, quality, and engineering beyond typical program requirements.
Schedule and lead Functional Stage Gate reviews and senior management Stage Gate presentations.