Customer Program Manager

Location: Bangalore/Gurugram Experience: 10+ Years Job Summary: We are seeking an experienced Customer Program Manager from the automotive domain to drive and manage programs involving hardware, firmware, cloud, and mobile applications. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of the automotive sector, strong expertise in hardware development, and proven experience in stakeholder management—including customers, development teams, and ODMs. Prior experience working with Indian OEMs is a plus. Key Responsibilities: Strong technical expertise in both hardware and software development to lead complex automotive programs from concept to launch Program Ownership: Lead and manage end-to-end program execution, ensuring alignment with customer requirements, timelines, and business objectives. Stakeholder Management: Act as the primary interface for customers, internal development teams, and ODMs, ensuring smooth communication and issue resolution. Cross-Functional Coordination: Collaborate with hardware, firmware, cloud, and mobile application teams to ensure seamless integration and timely delivery. Hardware Development Understanding: Work closely with hardware engineering teams, ensuring alignment with automotive standards, certification requirements, and quality expectations. Background in embedded systems, ECU design, and software engineering Deep knowledge of automotive standards: ISO 26262, ASPICE, AUTOSAR, MISRA, ISO/SAE 21434. Collaborating with HIL/SIL environments, Vector tools (CANoe, CANalyzer), and requirements management tools (DOORS, Polarion, Jira). Customer Relationship Management: Develop strong relationships with OEMs, understanding their needs and ensuring program success. Risk & Issue Management: Identify potential risks in program execution and implement mitigation strategies. Tracking & Reporting: Define and track key program KPIs, providing regular updates to internal leadership and customers. Supplier & ODM Engagement: Manage engagement with ODMs, suppliers, and third-party vendors, ensuring component availability, quality, and on-time integration. Regulatory & Compliance: Ensure the program aadheres to automotive standards, safety regulations, and compliance requirements. Ideal Candidature: Relevant experience in automotive product development & program management. Strong knowledge of hardware development processes within the automotive sector. Experience with embedded systems, ECU development, software integration, and hardware validation. Collaborate with engineering teams on embedded software, hardware (ECUs, sensors, microcontrollers, PCBs), and system integration. Provide guidance to resolve technical challenges during design, development, and testing. 8+ years of experience in automotive product development with a mix of hardware and software background. Review technical specifications, architecture, and validation plans to ensure compliance with automotive standards (ISO 26262, ASPICE, AUTOSAR, etc.). Experience managing programs that involve cloud, mobile applications, firmware, and hardware. Proven ability to manage multiple stakeholders, including customers, internal teams, and ODMs. Experience working with Indian automotive OEMs is a plus. Strong problem-solving, risk management, and communication skills. Familiarity with automotive industry standards and compliance frameworks Preferred Qualificaons: Experience with connected vehicle solutions and IoT-based automotive products. Hands-on experience in automotive hardware and software integration. PMP or equivalent program management certification (preferred but not mandatory).