Project Launch Manager

Overview In this program management role, you will drive end-to-end plant infrastructure and capital equipment readiness for automotive launches, coordinating cross-functional teams to meet launch milestones. You’ll serve as the main plant liaison, manage risk, and translate customer needs into actionable plans, with a focus on cost, manufacturability, and reliability. Based in Southfield, MI for the initial phase, you will support the Detroit launch and ensure seamless transition from development to plant operations. This is an opportunity to shape complex automotive electronics programs and lead continuous improvement across launches. ResponsibilitiesOwn end-to-end program lifecycle from award to post-SOP supportCo-develop and maintain program plans, timelines, budgets, and risk registersLead the plant team across engineering, manufacturing, quality, supply chain, purchasing, and financeServe as primary plant interface to customer for status, escalation, and deliverablesLead production launch planning including plant readiness, infrastructure, tooling, capacity, and ramp-upCoordinate pilot builds, PPAP, Run@Rate events, and launch metricsTransition program leadership from development site to plant during launchDrive launch issue resolution using structured problem solving and escalationSupport system-level trade-offs between performance, cost, manufacturability, and reliabilitySupport platform Manager with program financials and budget adherenceLead change management assessments and implementation for the plant teamSupport platform team on contract compliance and commercial discussionsIdentify and escalate technical, schedule, financial, and launch risksEnsure adherence to APQP and IATF requirementsDrive lessons learned and continuous improvement across launches Key requirements8-10 years of program or project management experience, or manufacturing experience in automotive, preferably electronicsExperience launching automotive programsStrong understanding of automotive development lifecycles (APQP, PPAP, EPC)Manufacturing launch processesCross-functional team leadershipProven ability to manage complex programsWillingness to transition work location from Southfield to Detroit during launch phaseExperience with power distribution modules, high current electronics, or EV architecturesExposure to liquid cooled electronic systemsWorking knowledge of ISO 26262 functional safetyOEM customer facing experience (GM, Ford, Stellantis, etc.)PMP or equivalent project management certificationExperience working with global teams and suppliersExperience launching electronic control units (ECUs) or power electronicsCross-functional leadershipProblem solving and escalationEffective communication with customers and internal teamsAPQPPPAPIATF