Launch Manager

​Main purpose of the job:

• To provide support to the Plant through the management and coordination of all launch related activities

Main objectives and results:

• Lead cross functional on time, on cost product launches

• Successful co-ordination of running changes

• Implementation and team adherence to company Project Management Systems

• Manage plant interface in support of Program targets

• Demonstrate an understanding of JIT/Lean Manufacturing System, general manufacturing, and application of the PFMEA/DFMEA/FMEA

• Write and follow up detailed and effective timing and action plans

• Foster an effective personal working relationship with all departments

• Direct cross functional team to ensure prompt responses to program needs

• Maintain company and personal credibility with the customer and balance of customer relationship and company profitability

• Interface and co-ordinate responses with company Commercial team

• Ensure Launch Readiness Reviews are complete and updated every month

• Launch Readiness Documents - identify and lead to resolution of key issues

• Ensure Phase Reviews are held on time, regardless of whether or not exit can be achieved

• Exit exceptions are documented and progress to completion is monitored

• Clearly identify and follow up issues requiring management intervention

• Maintain launch timing plans

• Continually update progress and incorporate contingency plans and risk mitigation strategies into master timeline

• Apply, execute and maintain function related Project Milestones/Timing Plans

• Any other tasks, activities and responsibilities that may be individually defined.

  Preferred Skills and Experience:

• BSc / HND in an Engineering or Business discipline

• Extensive experience in automotive manufacturing, ideally a Tier 1 supplier.

• Proven experience of managing multiple projects from development to launch

• Proven experience of managing cross functional project teams in a matrix organisation

• Evidence of achieving results through focused leadership and mentoring

• Evidence of effective budget management

• Excellent customer and Supplier relationship management

• Working knowledge of costing/quoting process

• Program management knowledge

• Knowledge of automotive development, drawings, production & logistics

• Business, commercial and financial understanding

• MS Project, MS Office

• Excellent organisational and communicational skills as well as a strong sense of urgency and an ability to work under pressure.

• Confident decision maker and proactive problem solver, with a hands-on approach.

• Strong leadership capabilities and proven management experience with the ability to work as

• an individual or as part of a team.