Program Manager

Overview As a Program Manager in Aptiv’s Robotics and Drones division, you lead the end-to-end development, commercialization, and delivery of hardware and software systems for AMRs and drones. You manage a team of Project Managers and coordinate with engineering, product, manufacturing, and business leaders to align programs with strategic objectives. You will drive lifecycle processes from concept to deployment, balancing technical ambition with schedule, budget, and quality. This role offers impact across a growing robotics portfolio in a global, cross-functional environment. ResponsibilitiesLead a portfolio of robotics and drone development programs spanning hardware, software, autonomy, and integrated systemsMentor and manage a team of Project Managers with clear priorities and accountable execution standardsTranslate strategy, roadmaps, and customer requirements into executable program plansOwn program performance including schedules, budgets, resources, risks, and outcomesOversee the full product lifecycle from concept through deployment and post-deployment supportAlign engineering, product, operations, manufacturing, and commercial teams to meet objectivesDevelop and maintain program plans, milestones, and execution roadmapsGuide cross-functional teams to deliver on schedule, budget, quality, and safety requirementsEnsure readiness for design reviews, manufacturing readiness, product launches, and customer deploymentsLead risk management, issue resolution, and executive escalationBalance scope, technical innovation, resources, and commitments with engineering leadershipChampion development process compliance and continuous improvementServe as a customer-facing program leader for strategic initiativesBuild relationships with customers, suppliers, partners, and executivesLead reviews, technical discussions, status updates, and escalation activitiesUnderstand customer roadmaps and identify growth opportunitiesDevelop governance, KPIs, and reporting; establish scalable PM practicesEnsure regulatory, quality, and process compliance across programsDevelop budgets, staffing plans, and resource forecasts; monitor profitability and investmentsFoster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and professional developmentPromote servant leadership and scalable program management practicesDrive organizational capability through scalable processes Key requirementsBachelor’s degree in a technical or related field10+ years leading complex engineering, product development, or technology programs5+ years leading Project Managers or cross-functional teamsProven track record delivering hardware and software products through full lifecycleStrong understanding of product development, systems engineering, risk management, and commercializationExperience managing multiple concurrent programs and stakeholdersStrong customer-facing leadership with executive communication experienceExperience budgeting, scheduling, and performance metricsExcellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skillsAbility to influence across a matrixed organizationProficiency with project, portfolio, and product lifecycle management toolsStrategic problem solvingEmpowering leadershipOperational disciplineHardware-software integrated system developmentSystems engineeringRisk management and regulatory compliance