Magna

Program Launch Manager

Magna • $90K — $120K *
Muncie, IN 47304In-Person
Manufacturing & Automotive
8 - 10 years of experience
Today
Be an Early Applicant
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Business, Program Management, or related field; Master's Degree preferred.
  • 8-10 years of experience in automotive program management or related roles.
  • 3-5 years of leadership experience managing Program Managers or cross-functional teams.
  • Strong technical background in automotive systems and manufacturing processes.
  • Demonstrated success in managing complex customer programs from acquisition through production.
  • Strong financial acumen for managing program budgets and commercial negotiations.
  • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with program management tools.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and mentor Program Managers to enhance team performance.
  • Establish objectives and development plans for team members.
  • Promote accountability and continuous improvement within the team.
  • Oversee program execution throughout the entire product lifecycle.
  • Ensure adherence to Magna's Global Program Management System and customer requirements.
  • Monitor program performance and address risks proactively.
  • Drive cross-functional collaboration for successful product launches.

Benefits

  • Regular permanent position with stability and career growth opportunities.
  • Access to continuous learning and development initiatives.
  • Involvement in strategic business planning and long-term growth activities.
  • Opportunity to lead significant customer relationships and projects.
  • Comprehensive approach to compliance and operational excellence.
Full Job Description
Job descriptions may display in multiple languages based on your language selection.

Job Responsibilities:

Scope of Position
  • The Manager, Program Management provides strategic and technical leadership to the Program Management function and is responsible for overseeing the successful execution of customer programs throughout the entire product lifecycle. This role leads a team of Program Managers, ensuring programs are delivered on time, within budget, and in accordance with customer requirements and Magna standards.
  • The Manager, Program Management drives operational excellence by developing program management capabilities, standardizing processes, and implementing continuous improvement initiatives across the organization. The position serves as a key liaison between customers, executive leadership, engineering, operations, sales, purchasing, quality, and finance to ensure alignment of business objectives and successful program execution.
  • Primary objectives include ensuring profitable program launches and sustained production performance, strengthening customer relationships, enhancing program management processes and systems, and developing a high-performing Program Management team that consistently delivers results exceeding customer and organizational expectations.


Minimum Requirements
  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Business, Program Management, or related field required. Master's Degree preferred.
  • Minimum 8-10 years of progressive experience in automotive program management, product development, operations, or related technical leadership roles.
  • Minimum 3-5 years of leadership experience managing Program Managers or cross-functional teams.
  • Strong technical background with knowledge of automotive systems, manufacturing processes, product development, and launch management.
  • Demonstrated success managing complex customer programs from acquisition through production.
  • Strong financial acumen with experience managing program budgets, profitability, business cases, and commercial negotiations.
  • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) and familiarity with program management, ERP, and customer systems.
  • Thorough understanding of APQP, PPAP, IATF 16949, launch management, and automotive customer requirements.
  • Exceptional communication, leadership, organizational, and conflict-resolution skills.
Job Specific Responsibilities
  • Provide leadership, coaching, mentoring, and performance management to Program Managers and associated personnel.
  • Establish clear objectives, priorities, and development plans for Program Management team members.
  • Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, continuous improvement, and customer focus.
  • Ensure adequate succession planning, cross-training, and capability development within the Program Management organization.
  • Oversee program execution across all phases of the product lifecycle, from acquisition and quoting through production and end-of-life activities.
  • Ensure adherence to Magna's Global Program Management System (GPMS) and customer-specific requirements.
  • Review program timing, financial performance, resource allocation, risk assessments, and escalation plans.
  • Lead management reviews and steering committee meetings for critical programs and strategic customer initiatives.
  • Ensure successful launches by coordinating resources and removing barriers impacting program objectives.
  • Monitor program health metrics and proactively address risks related to timing, quality, cost, capacity, and customer satisfaction.
  • Research, recommend, and lead implementation of enhancements to program management processes, products, tools, and systems.
  • Develop and implement best practices to improve program execution, launch performance, customer satisfaction, and profitability.
  • Analyze trends, lessons learned, and performance data to identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
  • Support strategic business planning activities and long-term growth initiatives.
  • Maintain executive-level customer relationships and support Program Managers in resolving critical customer concerns.
  • Participate in strategic customer reviews, negotiations, and escalation activities.
  • Ensure quotations and business cases align with company profitability objectives and strategic goals.
  • Support contract reviews, change management activities, claims management, and commercial negotiations throughout program life cycles.
  • Partner with Sales, Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Purchasing, Finance, and Operations to ensure alignment and execution of business objectives.
  • Drive cross-functional collaboration to support successful product launches and production performance.
  • Facilitate resolution of complex technical, commercial, operational, and customer issues.
  • Compliance & Operational Excellence
  • Support and adhere to policies, procedures, and operational guidelines related to the Quality Management System (IATF 16949), customer requirements, and EH&S standards.
  • Ensure MAFACT standards are planned and implemented within areas of responsibility to support world-class manufacturing.
  • Maintain compliance with OSHA, ISO, ANSI, and all applicable legislative requirements.
  • Prepare and present program performance updates to executive leadership.
  • Lead strategic initiatives supporting customer growth, operational excellence, and organizational effectiveness.
  • Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Worker Type:

Regular / Permanent

Group:

Magna Powertrain

About Magna

Magna Careers

Join Magna’s dynamic team of professionals and be part of a company that’s leading the way in automotive innovation. At Magna, we offer unparalleled job opportunities in an environment that values diversity, leadership, and growth. Work You’ll Do At Magna, we are committed to fostering an inclusive culture where every team member is empowered to contribute, innovate, and excel. We believe that diverse perspectives lead to groundbreaking ideas and better decisions. Joining our team means you’ll work alongside some of the industry’s most talented professionals, using state-of-the-art technology to create revolutionary automotive solutions. Lead in a Unique Market Position Magna stands at the forefront of the automotive industry, combining advanced technology, deep industry expertise, and a commitment to innovation that drives us forward. As a leader in our field, we offer careers that are not just jobs, but pathways to personal and professional growth. Explore Magna’s Job Opportunities Whether you’re looking for a position in engineering, design, production, or management, Magna has a place for you. Our global presence offers a wealth of opportunities for career advancement, professional development, and networking. From internships that provide real-world experience to leadership roles that challenge your skills, Magna is dedicated to helping you reach your full potential. Innovative Work Environment Magna is committed to innovation and excellence. Our team is constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the automotive world, making it an exciting place to grow your career. We encourage creativity and initiative, and we reward our employees with the benefits and support they need to succeed both professionally and personally. Be Part of a Great Team At Magna, you’ll find a collaborative environment that values teamwork and open communication. Our employees share a common goal: to lead the industry through innovation, efficiency, and sustainability. With diversity training and a focus on inclusive employment practices, Magna is a place where everyone can thrive. Future-Proof Your Career With Magna, you’re not just finding a job; you’re building a career. We offer extensive training and development programs to help you continue learning and evolving as a professional. With opportunities for advancement and a culture that promotes from within, Magna empowers you to design a career path that meets your ambitions. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search for open positions that match your skills and interests. We are always on the lookout for passionate, curious, and innovative team players. Explore the possibilities that Magna offers. SEARCH MAGNA JOBS Keep Up to Date Stay informed with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can use today—all from the people who work here. READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts, the latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that await at Magna.
Learn more about Magna
Size
161,000 employees
Market Cap
$15.9 billion
Industry
Manufacturing & Automotive
5 Year Trend
-0.1%
NASDAQ
MGA
* Ladders Estimates

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