At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting programmes, ensuring successful launches and managing cross-functional teams.
- Company: Dynamic automotive company focused on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth opportunities, and a supportive team culture.
- Other info: Opportunity to travel and work in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the automotive industry while developing your project management skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in Project Management or related field, with experience in programme management preferred.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Main Purpose of the Role
The Programme Manager is responsible for managing the scope and introduction of new programmes and running changes across the company's product portfolio, while supporting the development and implementation of VA/VE initiatives and partnering with Sales and Business Management on programme-related RFQ activity. The role champions disciplined change control across the organisation and leads Cross Functional Teams (CFTs) through the full GDLS/ProLink lifecycle, providing clear status reporting to leadership. A strong customer focus is central to ensuring successful product launches and programme delivery that align with commercial, operational, and strategic objectives.
Main Responsibilities
- Directly accountable for the successful launch of programmes/projects, ensuring delivery against scope, timing, cost, and quality targets, and achievement of agreed company metrics.
- Develop, approve, report, and monitor programme sales pricing, cost status, tooling investment (TAR & Cash Flow), capital investment (CAR), engineering development and design (PDP) costs against standard company metrics or those established at business case sign-off and programme/project award.
- Ensure all aspects of the programme/project are maintained and developed to meet the required quality objectives.
- Establish and lead Cross Functional Teams (CFTs) as required to meet the changing demands of programmes/projects.
- Schedule and facilitate regular CFT meetings to ensure effective communication and alignment.
- Monitor and manage CFT member responsibilities relating to GDLS/ProLink, RASIC, key deliverables, and milestones, including maintaining a central repository of programme/project evidence and documentation within ProLink.
- Foster a supportive, inclusive team culture that encourages open collaboration and contribution.
- Act as the primary cross-functional interface between customers and internal teams to define the full scope of programmes/projects.
Programme and Project Management
- Develop and agree Statements of Work, Requirements, and Assumptions documents with customers and internal stakeholders.
- Manage, maintain, and adapt programme/project timing plans and budgets in conjunction with key stakeholders and customers to support successful programme delivery and launch.
- Define and manage all key programme milestones, including but not limited to:
- Programme/project lifecycle timing and approvals.
- Engineering and design development activities.
- Design freeze, sign-off, and release.
- PDP preparation and approval.
- Customer and internal build dates.
- Customer order requirement dates.
- TAR, Cash Flow, and CAR preparation and approval.
- Tooling development and implementation timing.
- Make-versus-buy evaluations and approvals.
- Promote transparent communication, ensuring risks, issues, and trade-offs are identified early and communicated effectively.
Reporting and Governance
- Manage, maintain, and communicate programme/project status reporting and sign-off requirements to support quality and delivery objectives, including:
- Monthly programme/project reviews.
- GDLS Phase Management Gateway Reviews, Fresh Eyes Reviews, and Gateway Sign-Offs.
- Monthly Operating Reports (MOR).
- Programme/project timing, financial reporting, and cash flow updates.
- Ensure timely escalation and reporting of programme/project risks and issues.
- Continuously identify opportunities to improve programme delivery processes, tools, and cross-functional ways of working.
- Maintain a high level of attention to detail across programme documentation, evidence packs, and milestone deliverables.
- Identify and resolve operational, commercial, and technical issues using structured problem-solving methodologies.
Preferred Skills and Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Project Management, Programme Management, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related discipline (preferred), or substantial experience in programme management within the automotive industry.
- Professional Project or Programme Management accreditation (IPMA Level C minimum or equivalent recognised qualification).
- Experience in programme management within a regional or global automotive organisation, or extensive automotive project management experience.
- Demonstrable commitment to honest, respectful, and effective communication in high-pressure programme environments.
- Proven track record of taking ownership and accountability for programme outcomes.
- Good working knowledge of industry standards, methodologies, and procedures.
- APQP, PPAP, and IATF 16949 training and/or significant practical experience.
- Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills, with the ability to secure commitment across customer and internal teams.
- Willingness to travel for business as required.
- Flexibility to adapt priorities in response to changing programme demands.
- Intermediate to advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including data analysis, pivot tables, reporting, and chart creation.
Programme Manager in Birmingham employer: Gerrell & Hard
As a Programme Manager at our company, you will thrive in a dynamic and inclusive work culture that prioritises collaboration and innovation. We offer competitive benefits, opportunities for professional growth, and a commitment to your development within the automotive industry, all while being part of a team that values transparency and effective communication. Join us in a role that not only challenges you but also allows you to make a meaningful impact on our product portfolio and customer satisfaction.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Programme Manager in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1: Get Involved in Consulting Case Competitions
Look for case competitions hosted by universities and consulting firms. They’re a fab way to showcase your problem-solving skills and meet industry players. Plus, winning one can seriously boost your CV, which we know is key when applying for roles like Programme Manager at Gerrell & Hard!
✨Tip Number 2: Leverage Alumni Networks
Tap into your university’s alumni network; many consultants love to help out new talent. Reach out to alumni who are working in management consulting, they might have insider knowledge about openings at firms like Gerrell & Hard or be willing to refer you for that Programme Manager position!
✨Tip Number 3: Attend Industry Events and Conferences
Keep an eye on management consulting events, workshops, or panels. These are prime opportunities to network with top professionals and get your name out there. You might even bump into someone from Gerrell & Hard who’s on the lookout for their next Programme Manager star!
✨Tip Number 4: Polish Your Consulting Skills Online
Engage with online platforms that offer consulting simulations or courses. Prove your chops by completing relevant projects — this not only beefs up your experience but also gives you concrete examples to chat about during interviews for that full-time Programme Manager role at Gerrell & Hard!
We think you need these skills to ace Programme Manager in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Problem-Solving Skills:In management consulting, it's all about problem-solving—so make sure your CV highlights your analytical and critical thinking skills. Include examples from your studies or previous roles where you tackled complex issues or came up with innovative solutions. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to demonstrate your impact!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to explain why you're a perfect fit for the consulting world. Focus on your motivation for joining the industry and how your skills align with the requirements of the role at Gerrell & Hard. Remember to mention any relevant coursework or projects that showcase your understanding of strategic frameworks or business models!
Highlight Team Experience:Consultants often work in teams, so it's vital to showcase your collaborative skills. Include experiences where you've worked effectively with others, whether in academic group projects or internships. Discuss your role in the team and how you helped achieve common goals, demonstrating you can thrive in a consultancy environment.
Professionalise Your Online Presence:Make sure your LinkedIn and any other professional profiles are up to date, reflecting your career aspirations in management consulting. Connect with industry professionals and follow relevant groups—show you’re serious about entering this field. Applying through our website is a great way to get noticed, so showcase your personality and enthusiasm there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gerrell & Hard
✨Master the Case Study Game
In management consulting, case study interviews are all the rage. Make sure to practice structuring your thoughts and analysing data on the fly. Use resources like example case studies to get comfortable with frameworks and solutions. Remember, it’s not just about getting the right answer but showcasing your thought process, so talk us through your reasoning!
✨Know Your Numbers
Be prepared for some numerical and analytical questions. Brush up on your mental math and be ready to interpret data from charts or graphs. We might throw some business scenarios at you that require a quick turnaround on numerical analysis, so practice these skills to feel confident and swift!
✨Show Your Leadership Flair
As this is a full-time role, we want to see your potential as a seasoned consultant. Be ready to discuss experiences where you've led a project or a team. Think about times you've influenced decisions or navigated challenges—this is your chance to show how you can thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
✨Be a Cultural Fit
We’re not just looking for brains; we want to see if you vibe with our company culture at Gerrell & Hard. Prepare to share how your values align with ours. Have a think about what makes a great team environment for you and how you can contribute to that. A good cultural fit goes a long way in management consulting!
