Program Manager - Automotive

ECARX (Nasdaq: ECX) is a global leader in mobility tech, partnering with top OEMs to shape the future of automotive innovation. Our solutions—ranging from central computers to software stacks—are already integrated into over five million vehicles worldwide. As the industry moves toward electric and smart mobility, ECARX is at the forefront of this transformation, continually developing cutting-edge technologies for next-generation in-car experiences.About the RoleThe Program Management Team leads cross-functional efforts to deliver customer programs on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. Reporting to senior leadership, the Program Manager will be a key driver from the bidding phase through project closure, ensuring both exceptional customer satisfaction and maximized company value. This role involves significant interaction with global teams (Brazil, China, Germany) and senior stakeholders, requiring an individual capable of coordinating across multiple time zones and cultural contexts.What You Will DoCustomer AdvocacyServe as the primary liaison between external customer stakeholders and internal cross-functional teams.Understand customer requirements deeply to ensure solutions are aligned and issues are escalated/resolved promptly.Program ExecutionPlan and deliver complex automotive programs, particularly in the area of intelligent cockpit systems (e.g., infotainment, connectivity, user interfaces).Own standalone project workstreams while coordinating seamlessly within the broader organization.Balance technical acumen with strategic decision-making to meet critical milestones.Delivery ManagementNavigate the challenges of large-scale, cross-border projects involving multiple functional groups (software, hardware, and external suppliers).Define tactical approaches to maintain deliverables and timelines, motivating global teams to meet or exceed objectives.Performance TrackingEstablish and track key metrics to measure program success, reporting progress to senior leadership and customers.Provide actionable insights for continuous improvement and risk mitigation.Team CollaborationFoster collaboration across engineering, product development, and cross-functional teams.Demonstrate strong leadership by managing through influence, empowering teams, and balancing deadlines with team well-being.Risk ManagementIdentify and manage risks in complex automotive development cycles, from supplier and OEM constraints to internal resource challenges.Develop and implement effective mitigation strategies, keeping all stakeholders informed.Senior Stakeholder & Executive InterfacePresent program updates, challenges, and successes to top-level executives.Manage upward effectively, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and immediate program needs.Pre-Sales SupportCollaborate with sales/pre-sales teams to analyze customer requirements and propose technical solutions.Contribute to cost estimations and resource planning to support new business acquisition.What You NeedKey Criteria7–8 years of automotive industry experience, preferably in IVI (infotainment) or ADAS systems.7–8 years of program management experience, covering software, hardware, and manufacturing processes.PMP certification is highly preferredEducationMaster’s degree in Engineering or a related field preferred (or equivalent experience).ExperienceMinimum 10+ years of professional experience, including significant exposure to global automotive projects with OEMs, suppliers, or Tier 1s.Demonstrated success managing complex, cross-functional automotive programs from concept to production.ExpertiseHands-on background with intelligent cockpit systems (IVI, connectivity, user interfaces).Strong familiarity with automotive standards (IATF 16949, ASPICE).Knowledge of Agile frameworks (SAFe, LeSS) is an advantage.Leadership & Soft SkillsProven ability to lead by influence, adapting to diverse cultures/time zones, and effectively interacting with senior leadership.Skilled at balancing strict deadlines with the need to maintain team morale and flexibility.Excellent communication skills (oral and written) for engaging at all levels of the organization.LanguagesFluency in German and English is required; additional languages (e.g., Portuguese or Chinese) are a plus given the global scope.OtherWillingness to collaborate across multiple regions (Brazil, China, Germany) and travel occasionally if needed.A proactive mindset that thrives in a fast-paced, innovative environment.

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