Program Manager

Job Summary

The Program Manager is responsible for leading assigned programs in alignment with Tenneco program management processes and performance expectations. This leadership role drives cross-functional execution from customer quote thru SOP, and includes launch planning to ensure program timing, quality, financial, safety, and delivery targets are achieved.

Job Responsibilities

• Lead assigned programs in compliance with Tenneco program management processes from Gate 1 through Gate 7, including Gate closure objectives.
• Drive flawless launch performance and achievement of program targets, including safety, quality, delivery, financial objectives
• Serve as the central communication point across program teams, ensuring alignment with Engineering, Sales, Finance, Quality, Purchasing, plants, and Launch Managers
• Lead effective program team meetings and customer review meetings to support execution, issue identification and resolution, and decision-making
• Identify program risks early, develop mitigation plans, execute the Red Flag process when needed, and escalate issues to leadership in a timely manner
• Manage program scope change process and approval, with emphasis on customer changes
• Manage program trade-off analysis by balancing cost, timing, product, and resources
• Develop and maintain high-quality timing plans with strong cross-functional buy-in to support on-time Gates and customer milestones achievement
• Ensure customer MRDs are met on time with high-quality deliverables
• Maintain positive working relationships with teams, plants and customers, including face-to-face visits as needed
• Support achievement of program financial targets by validating business cases, reviewing CAR assumptions, and driving execution of financial roadmaps
• Partner with program teams to develop and execute quality roadmaps that support launch and customer expectations
• Support sourcing execution by ensuring make-versus-buy decisions are completed appropriately and purchased components are PPAP-ready on time with high quality suppliers
• Take an active go-and-verify approach through plant and supplier visits at key points in the program lifecycle
• Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, speed, and continuous improvement consistent with Tenneco core values

Job Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or equivalent required. Master of Business Administration preferred. PMP certification preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience in the automotive industry, with up to 8 years preferred. 3 to 5 years of experience in another functional area such as Engineering, Operations, Finance, Quality, Sales, or Purchasing. Experience in at least 2 key functional areas, including Program Management, Engineering, Quality, Finance, Operations, or Sales. Proven knowledge of program management methodology, tools, and techniques. Experience participating in or leading cross-functional teams.
• Requirements/Certifications: Strong leadership skills with the ability to lead, motivate, and drive cross-functional teams. Strong written, verbal, and presentation communication skills. Strong execution, problem-solving, and quality focus. Fluent in English; additional language capability is a plus. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and MS Project. Ability to travel up to 25% as required, including international.

Physical Demands

Often required to sit and use hands and fingers to handle or feel. Occasionally required to stand, walk, reach with arms and hands, climb or balance, and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. Vision abilities required include close vision. Occasional exposure to moving mechanical parts and vehicles. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet to moderate.