Program Director

Job Title: Program Director

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly skilled Program Director to oversee the planning, execution, and completion of various automotive projects at Bodycote. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in the automotive industry, with a strong background in Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP), heat treatment processes, and tooling purchasing and management.

• Project Management: Lead and manage automotive projects from initiation through completion, ensuring all project objectives are met.
• APQP Implementation: Oversee the implementation of APQP processes to ensure that all product quality planning activities are executed effectively.
• Heat Treatment Processes: Manage projects involving heat treatment processes, ensuring adherence to industry standards and company specifications.
• Tooling Purchasing and Management: Oversee the procurement, maintenance, and management of tooling required for automotive projects.
• Budget Management: Develop and manage project budgets, ensuring projects are completed within financial constraints.
• Timeline Management: Create detailed project schedules and manage timelines to ensure the timely completion of deliverables.
• Cross-Functional Coordination: Coordinate with various departments including engineering, production, quality assurance, and procurement to ensure seamless project execution.
• Risk Management: Identify potential project risks and develop mitigation plans to address them proactively.
• Customer Interaction: Serve as the primary point of contact for customers, addressing their needs and concerns throughout the project lifecycle.
• Reporting: Provide regular project status updates to senior management and stakeholders, highlighting key milestones and any issues that may arise.
• Continuous Improvement: Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance project management processes and outcomes.

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Management, or a related field. A Master's degree or PMP certification is a plus.
• Experience: Minimum of 7 years of experience in program management within the automotive industry.
• APQP Knowledge: In-depth knowledge and hands-on experience with APQP processes.
• Heat Treatment Expertise: Proven experience managing projects involving heat treatment processes.
• Tooling Expertise: Experience in purchasing and managing tooling for automotive projects.
• Project Management Skills: Strong project management skills with a track record of successfully managing complex automotive projects.
• Microsoft Project Proficiency: Demonstrated proficiency in using Microsoft Project for planning, scheduling, and tracking project activities.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with customers, team members, and senior management.
• Leadership: Demonstrated leadership abilities with experience managing cross-functional teams.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to make sound decisions under pressure.
• Technical Proficiency: Proficient in project management software, including Microsoft Project, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Reading and Writing Skills: Ability to read blueprint specifications and write metallurgical reports.
• Computer Skills: Proficient in computer applications, basic math, and accurate typing skills. Computer programs required include Microsoft Projects, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Adobe.
• Soft Skills: Ability to multi-task, self-motivated, and detail-oriented.
• Language Skills: Ability to communicate in English orally and in writing.
• Interpersonal Skills: Ability to deal professionally and pleasantly with all stakeholders – getting along with people while remaining assertive.
• Flexibility: Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends, as required.
• Travel: Ability to travel up to 40-50% or more, as required.

• Automotive Quality Standards: Familiarity with automotive quality standards and regulations.
• Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma: Experience with Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.
• CAD and Engineering Software: Knowledge of CAD and other engineering software tools.