Program Manager

Lead and execute complex automotive program launches from award through production, ensuring on-time delivery, quality standards, and customer satisfaction. This role requires an experienced professional who can coordinate cross-functional activities, navigate APQP/PPAP processes, manage customer relationships with OEM clients, and drive launch readiness while maintaining visibility across all program milestones and deliverables within a Tier 1 automotive supplier environment.

• Lead full program lifecycle from award to launch, ensuring timing, quality, and customer satisfaction.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams to align objectives, deliverables, and timelines.
• Serve as the main customer contact, managing communication, updates, and issue resolution.
• Oversee APQP and PPAP processes, ensuring compliance with IATF and OEM requirements.
• Track program status using tools like Smartsheet; report progress and elevate risks as needed.
• Break down complex launches into clear, actionable steps for team execution.
• Facilitate problem‑solving and implement corrective actions to maintain launch schedules.
• Collaborate with suppliers to ensure readiness, quality, and timely delivery of components.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or related field / or 10+ years of relevant automotive launch experience without a degree
• 5+ years leading multiple manufacturing program launches with proven success
• Experience with Tier 1 automotive suppliers and OEM program launches
• Strong knowledge of APQP and PPAP processes and compliance standards
• Proficient in ERP systems (IQMS, SAP, Oracle, etc.) and advanced Excel skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication across all levels
• Familiarity with IATF 16949, FMEA, Control Plans, and other quality tools
• Skilled in leading cross‑functional teams to meet milestones
• Onsite presence in Zeeland, MI with occasional travel as needed

• Smartsheet or similar project management tool experience
• PMP or other project management certifications
• Technical background or engineering experience
• Lean or Six Sigma training and continuous improvement experience
• Spanish language proficiency for effective communication with diverse teams and suppliers

Ventura Manufacturing is a global manufacturer of automotive, furniture, appliance, and other products. We believe we have a unique vision that goes beyond the usual business goals. We aspire to be a growing community that loves work and cares for people. Our goal is to improve lives by producing beneficial products, providing employment, growing people, and giving generously. We encourage entrepreneurial ownership, balanced by common sense standards and systems that we follow as a baseline for improvement.

Ventura has a global footprint and is growing in size and capability. If our culture appeals to you and you meet the requirements, we would love to talk to you about joining our team.

Because of our high standards and continual strides for excellence in service and performance, it is most important that we are staffed with the best qualified individuals for each position. In keeping with these high standards, it is our policy to grant equal employment opportunity to all qualified persons based on merit and qualifications, without regard to sexual orientation, gender identity, race, color, religion, national origin, age, height, weight, marital status, pregnancy, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification or characteristic protected by law.