Customer Program Manager 3

Description

Customer Program Managers (CPMs) serve as the primary point of contact for customers and are responsible for managing one or more customer programs. They coordinate with both internal teams and external stakeholders to implement and monitor contract requirements, while maintaining regular communication with the customer.

CPMs are focused on achieving both customer and Kontron objectives. Within defined limits, they act as the key decision-makers for their assigned programs. They are also accountable for ensuring that all relevant Kontron departments complete their assigned tasks in a timely and effective manner.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Establish Program Objectives: Define program goals and deliverables in collaboration with customers, internal departments, and key stakeholders.
• Scope, Schedule, and Cost Management: Develop and manage the overall program scope, timelines, and budgets to ensure successful delivery.
• Contract Review and Execution Leadership: Drive the execution of contract review and approval processes in alignment with Kontron North America (KNA) Contract Guidelines. Responsible for execution of contractual requirements.
• Program and Lifecycle Oversight: Maintain comprehensive program schedules, manage issue logs, and facilitate both internal and external meetings. Manage all phases of a customer program from product development through end of life.
• Customer Engagement: Lead regular customer meetings, including daily stand-ups, weekly reviews, monthly updates, and Quarterly Business Reviews (QBRs).
• Purchase Order (PO) Management: Oversee the full PO lifecycle—from receipt to product shipment—ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Product Development Coordination: Collaborate with Project Managers on new developments and product changes, leading the end-to-end process.
• Financial Forecasting and Execution: Provide accurate forecasting, revenue tracking, and margin projections to support business planning.
• Cross-Functional Liaison and Leader: Act as the central point of communication between the customer, sales, and internal departments (including Quality, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, R&D, Finance, and Customer Service). This may include suppliers and contract manufacturers.
• Strategic Alignment: Ensure alignment with both customer and Kontron business objectives throughout the program lifecycle.
• Risk Management: Proactively identify, escalate, and report any obstacles or risks that may impact program success.
• Program Ownership: Serve as the Leader, Owner, and Accountable Party for all assigned programs. Works and keeps communication with the KAM (Key Account Manager) on any Customer aspect and new opportunities.

Qualifications:

• Experience: Minimum of 3 years in customer program management or a related role.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience.
• Additional Experience: in Electronics or Embedded Computers preferred.
• 6 Sigma: Green or Black belt training preferred.
• Customer Engagement: Proven ability to interact effectively with customer managers and executives promoting an excellent Customer Experience.
• Program Management: Demonstrated experience in project and program management, with a solid understanding of program management methodologies and best practices.
• Problem Solving: Skilled at navigating ambiguity, incomplete information, and conflicting priorities to drive results.
• Leadership: Strong ability to structure, lead, and motivate teams, including cross-functional teams without direct reporting authority.
• Collaboration: Effective at leading and influencing across departments and organizational levels.
• Technical Proficiency: Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Project.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills.