As the Program Manager - Engineering Operations at Bose, you will oversee various aspects of engineering operations within the Automotive Systems Business Unit. This includes managing R&D inputs, facilitating project management processes, engaging with cross-functional teams to drive effective collaboration, and participating in Quarterly Business Reviews (QBR). You'll lead change management initiatives and ensure that engineering practices align with both industry standards and Bose's commitment to transformative sound experiences.

To be considered for the Program Manager - Engineering Operations position at Bose, candidates must hold a technical undergraduate degree in Software, Computer, Electrical, or Systems Engineering. An advanced degree in Engineering or Business is a plus. Additionally, applicants should have at least 7 years of experience in technical roles and 5 years in leadership positions focusing on process ownership. Familiarity with business processes, finance, and project reporting is also required.

A successful Program Manager - Engineering Operations at Bose should possess strong written and verbal communication skills to lead presentations and engage executives effectively. In-depth knowledge of software and hardware development lifecycles, including methodologies such as Agile, Scrum, and Waterfall, is crucial. Familiarity with project management tools such as Jira, Jama, and Power BI, along with data analysis abilities, are also key to driving decision-making and resource estimations within the team.

The Program Manager - Engineering Operations plays a pivotal role in Bose's automotive strategy by ensuring that operations align with the company’s vision of redefining the driving experience. By managing engineering processes, facilitating communication across teams, and leading change management initiatives, this role helps streamline product development and enhance sound technology in vehicles, ultimately contributing to a superior user experience.

At Bose, the working environment for a Program Manager - Engineering Operations is dynamic and collaborative. You will be part of a passionate team deeply invested in redefining sound experiences in the automotive sector. The culture thrives on innovation and collective effort, with opportunities to engage in cross-functional teams and manage projects that span across multiple locations, all while upholding Bose's commitment to diversity and inclusion.

When responding to this question, highlight specific projects where you successfully led engineering operations. Discuss your approach to streamlining processes, your experience with cross-functional collaboration, and how you measure the success of your initiatives in enhancing engineering practices.

Mention any project management tools you have used in your previous roles, such as Jira, Jama, and Power BI. Emphasize how you leveraged these tools to improve team performance, communication, and project tracking.

Discuss your strategic approach to task prioritization. You might mention using frameworks like the Eisenhower Matrix or Agile methodologies to assess urgency and importance, ensuring that project deliverables align with business objectives.

Share specific experiences where you implemented Agile practices or Lean Six Sigma principles to enhance engineering processes. Explain how these methodologies helped improve efficiency and quality within the teams you managed.

Describe how you approach conflict resolution, emphasizing open communication and collaboration. Provide an example of a situation where you successfully mediated a disagreement to achieve a productive outcome.

Talk about your communication style and techniques, such as using visual presentations or concise reports, to keep executives informed and engaged. Highlight the importance of tailoring your message based on the audience’s interests and needs.

Provide a concrete example of a change management initiative you led. Explain your methodology, the challenges you faced, and how you achieved buy-in from stakeholders to drive successful change.

Discuss key performance indicators (KPIs) you use, such as project completion rate, resource utilization, and customer satisfaction. Explain how these metrics can inform future decision-making within engineering operations.

Share your strategies for professional development, such as attending industry conferences, participating in online training, or joining relevant professional associations. Highlight any specific trends you are currently following that could impact Bose's strategies.

Reflect on your passion for sound technology and your desire to enhance user experiences. Discuss how Bose's commitment to innovation and improving sound resonates with your personal and professional values.