PROGRAM MANAGER - AUTOMOTIVE MANUFACTURING
Hybrid / Site-Based Role
£55,000 - £65,000

We are recruiting on behalf of a specialist automotive manufacturing business seeking an experienced Program Manager to take ownership of key customer programmes across a fast-paced and growing production environment.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys working closely with customers, engineering and production teams, and who can confidently manage multiple complex automotive programmes from award through to launch and manufacturing handover.

The business operates across moulding, chrome plating, paint and assembly, supplying into well-known automotive OEMs including premium and luxury manufacturers.

THE ROLE

As Program Manager, you will be responsible for the end-to-end delivery of multiple automotive programmes, ensuring all internal functions are aligned to meet customer expectations, cost targets and delivery milestones.

You will act as the key link between the customer and internal teams, ensuring programmes are delivered on time, to specification, and in line with commercial and operational requirements.

This role requires strong visibility on the shop floor as well as confidence in customer-facing meetings and programme reviews.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage programmes from initial award through to production launch and handover

• Act as the primary customer interface for assigned programmes

• Coordinate cross-functional teams including Engineering, Quality, Logistics and Production

• Ensure programme timelines, milestones and deliverables are clearly defined and met

• Provide regular communication on programme status, risks, issues and recovery actions

• Support feasibility reviews and ensure manufacturability of new and changing projects (ECRs)

• Attend customer meetings and support build events and launch activity

• Track programme performance and drive accountability across all stakeholders

• Support commercial and sales teams during early-stage programme development

• Maintain strong visibility across both customer sites and internal operations

ABOUT YOU

We are looking for a hands-on and commercially aware Automotive Program Manager who thrives in a fast-moving manufacturing environment.

You will likely have:

• Experience in automotive programme or project management

• Strong background managing OEM/customer relationships

• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams to tight deadlines

• Experience working in manufacturing or production-led environments

• Ability to manage multiple programmes at different stages simultaneously

• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills

• A proactive, solutions-focused approach to problem solving

This role will suit someone who enjoys being close to both customers and production operations, and who can confidently balance delivery, risk and communication.

THE BUSINESS

The business is a well-established but growing automotive supplier with a strong order book and increasing programme complexity. With several major tooling and launch programmes underway, this is a key time to join and play a pivotal role in shaping successful programme delivery going forward.

WHAT'S ON OFFER

• Competitive salary of £55,000 - £65,000

• Hybrid working model (approx. 80% site / 20% remote)

• Opportunity to work on high-profile automotive programmes

• Long-term development within a growing organisation