Program Manager

Introduction: A Career at HARMAN AutomotiveWe're a global, multi-disciplinary team that's putting the innovative power of technology to work and transforming tomorrow. At HARMAN Automotive, we give you the keys to fast-track your career.Engineer audio systems and integrated technology platforms that augment the driving experienceCombine ingenuity, in-depth research, and a spirit of collaboration with design and engineering excellenceAdvance in-vehicle infotainment, safety, efficiency, and enjoymentAbout The RoleOverall responsibility for the realization of large and complex programs within the CAM VW Program Management organization. The Program Manager leads cross-functional and international teams to deliver programs that are strategically relevant and several brands, regions, and technical domains. The role goes beyond operational project coordination and includes executive-level customer interaction, strategic contributions, and high-level decision-making authority.Your TeamLeads large cross-functional teams and external suppliers, managing 100–200 project team members. Coordinates virtual, multi-location teams with a consistent and structured management approach.What You Will DoFull accountability for major customer programs of high strategic relevance within the VW Group portfolioPrimary customer interface at the management level (Audi, Porsche, VW, CARIAD)Leads complete programs across brands, regions, and technical domainsConducts system testing independently and leads global troubleshooting across hardware/software teamsDrives and owns change and risk management processesMakes independent decisions on priorities, resources, and escalation measuresIdentifies and communicates strategic customer insights and future trendsOwns and drives all program processes, including documentation and application of lessons learnedActs as de-escalation lead during critical project phases, bridging internal teams and customer organizationsServes as a single point of contact for status reporting, risk assessment, escalation handling, and executive communicationResponsible for delivering the product according to agreed targets (schedule, Product costs, budget costs, quality)Technical interface towards OEM-customer for all aspects of technical status, program progress, and product alignmentSingle point communication for project status reporting, risk assessment, change management, escalation, and action plans to HARMAN leadership and customers.Active steering during RFI/RFQ phases (feasibility, technical specification alignment)Top-level planning and controllingAligns both technical and commercial goals with internal stakeholders and external OEMsLeads the cross-functional Team 1What You NeedUniversity degree in engineering (Electrical Engineering, Information Technology, Mechanical Engineering, or appropriate graduation) or equivalent Project Management experience.Minimum 10 years of experience in project or line management (team size >150 members)Demonstrated excellence in Harman Core Competencies (Results driven, Team Player, Change Orientation, Customer Focus, and Self Awareness)Strong understanding of Automotive Program Management processes, including IATF16949, Automotive SPICE, and PMIProficient in development lifecycle methodologies and program management toolsDecision-making and problem-solving abilityConfident decision-making and problem-solving in complex, dynamic environmentsAbility to manage very large, multifunctional teams in worldwide locationsStrong customer focus requiredFundamental knowledge in terms of methodologies in project managementFluent in technical and commercial German and English skillsAbility to motivate and communicateAbility to mediate between conflict parties.What Makes You EligibleWillingness to travel 25%.Willingness to work in an office.What We OfferHARMAN offers a diverse and inclusive work environment that fosters and encourages career development opportunities, professional training and competitive market base compensationYou will also receive top-notch employee discounts on Harman's Consumer Audio (JBL, AKG, HARMAN Kardon) and Samsung productsFlexible work schedule with a culture encouraging work life integration and collaboration in a global friendly working atmosphere and good work-life-balanceAttractive salary packageProfessional development opportunities through HARMAN University's business and leadership academies which also includes extensive technical trainingsInternal talent management leadership acceleration programs"Be Brilliant" employee recognition and rewards program