Programme Manager

Main Purpose of the Role The Programme Manager is responsible for managing the scope and introduction of new programmes and running changes across the company's product portfolio, while supporting the development and implementation of VA/VE initiatives and partnering with Sales and Business Management on programme-related RFQ activity.The role champions disciplined change control across the organisation and leads Cross Functional Teams (CFTs) through the full GDLS/ProLink lifecycle, providing clear status reporting to leadership. A strong customer focus is central to ensuring successful product launches and programme delivery that align with commercial, operational, and strategic objectives.Main Responsibilities Directly accountable for the successful launch of programmes/projects, ensuring delivery against scope, timing, cost, and quality targets, and achievement of agreed company metrics.Develop, approve, report, and monitor programme sales pricing, cost status, tooling investment (TAR & Cash Flow), capital investment (CAR), engineering development and design (PDP) costs against standard company metrics or those established at business case sign-off and programme/project award.Ensure all aspects of the programme/project are maintained and developed to meet the required quality objectives.Establish and lead Cross Functional Teams (CFTs) as required to meet the changing demands of programmes/projects.Schedule and facilitate regular CFT meetings to ensure effective communication and alignment.Monitor and manage CFT member responsibilities relating to GDLS/ProLink, RASIC, key deliverables, and milestones, including maintaining a central repository of programme/project evidence and documentation within ProLink.Foster a supportive, inclusive team culture that encourages open collaboration and contribution.Act as the primary cross-functional interface between customers and internal teams to define the full scope of programmes/projects.Programme and Project Management Develop and agree Statements of Work, Requirements, and Assumptions documents with customers and internal stakeholders.Manage, maintain, and adapt programme/project timing plans and budgets in conjunction with key stakeholders and customers to support successful programme delivery and launch.Define and manage all key programme milestones, including but not limited to: Programme/project lifecycle timing and approvals.Engineering and design development activities.Design freeze, sign-off, and release.PDP preparation and approval.Customer and internal build dates.Customer order requirement dates.TAR, Cash Flow, and CAR preparation and approval.Tooling development and implementation timing.Make-versus-buy evaluations and approvals.Promote transparent communication, ensuring risks, issues, and trade-offs are identified early and communicated effectively.Reporting and Governance Manage, maintain, and communicate programme/project status reporting and sign-off requirements to support quality and delivery objectives, including: Monthly programme/project reviews.GDLS Phase Management Gateway Reviews, Fresh Eyes Reviews, and Gateway Sign-Offs.Monthly Operating Reports (MOR).Programme/project timing, financial reporting, and cash flow updates.Ensure timely escalation and reporting of programme/project risks and issues.Continuously identify opportunities to improve programme delivery processes, tools, and cross-functional ways of working.Maintain a high level of attention to detail across programme documentation, evidence packs, and milestone deliverables.Identify and resolve operational, commercial, and technical issues using structured problem-solving methodologies.Preferred Skills and Experience Bachelor's degree in Project Management, Programme Management, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related discipline (preferred), or substantial experience in programme management within the automotive industry.Professional Project or Programme Management accreditation (IPMA Level C minimum or equivalent recognised qualification).Experience in programme management within a regional or global automotive organisation, or extensive automotive project management experience.Demonstrable commitment to honest, respectful, and effective communication in high-pressure programme environments.Proven track record of taking ownership and accountability for programme outcomes.Good working knowledge of industry standards, methodologies, and procedures.APQP, PPAP, and IATF 16949 training and/or significant practical experience.Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills, with the ability to secure commitment across customer and internal teams.Willingness to travel for business as required.Flexibility to adapt priorities in response to changing programme demands.Intermediate to advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including data analysis, pivot tables, reporting, and chart creation.TPBN1_UKTJ