Program Manager – Manufacturing Consulting

Design Systems, Inc. is seeking an experienced Program Manager to lead complex manufacturing consulting projects and build strong, lasting relationships with our clients.

We are looking for a hands-on, organized leader with 10+ years of manufacturing experience who can manage multiple stakeholders, solve complex problems, and drive projects from planning through successful completion. Experience with new plant builds, storage commissioning, supply chain optimization, or manufacturing operations is highly valued.

This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned manufacturing professional who enjoys leading teams, working directly with clients, and making a measurable impact on complex projects.

What You'll Do

Program & Project Management

• Lead end-to-end programs and projects within the manufacturing industry.
• Manage complex initiatives such as new plant builds, storage commissioning, supply chain optimization, and process improvement.
• Develop project plans, schedules, budgets, milestones, and deliverables.
• Coordinate manufacturers, suppliers, contractors, consultants, and internal teams.
• Monitor project progress and ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and on budget.
• Identify project risks and develop practical mitigation and recovery plans.
• Manage scope changes and ensure client expectations remain aligned with the Statement of Work (SOW).
• Drive continuous improvement in manufacturing processes, quality, efficiency, and cost.
• Map end-to-end supply chains, including sub-components and critical suppliers, to identify bottlenecks and risks.
• Prepare project updates, dashboards, and presentations for senior leadership.
• Provide leadership, mentoring, and support to project managers and cross-functional teams.

Client Management

• Serve as a trusted primary contact for assigned clients.
• Build strong working relationships and develop a clear understanding of client goals and needs.
• Lead regular client meetings and communicate project status, milestones, risks, and next steps.
• Address client questions and resolve issues quickly and professionally.
• Manage expectations related to scope, schedule, budget, and deliverables.
• Look for opportunities to strengthen client relationships and support future business opportunities.

Team Leadership

• Lead and mentor cross-functional project teams.
• Establish clear priorities, responsibilities, and expectations.
• Promote accountability, teamwork, and open communication.
• Coordinate activities across engineering, operations, manufacturing, supply chain, suppliers, and leadership.
• Help teams overcome challenges and maintain momentum toward project goals.

What We're Looking For

• 10+ years of program or project management experience in manufacturing.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, Supply Chain, Business, or a related field preferred.
• Experience managing complex manufacturing programs with multiple stakeholders.
• Experience with new plant builds, plant launches, commissioning, storage/warehouse commissioning, or supply chain projects preferred.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and operations.
• Knowledge of Lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and quality management systems.
• Experience with supply chain mapping, supplier management, and risk assessment.
• Strong project planning, organization, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Strong client relationship and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to lead teams and influence others in a cross-functional environment.
• Experience using project management software and tools.
• Ability and willingness to travel to client and manufacturing sites as needed.

Preferred Skills

• Strategic thinking and business acumen
• Manufacturing program management
• Supply chain optimization
• Risk management and mitigation
• Change management
• Lean manufacturing
• Continuous improvement
• Cross-functional leadership
• Client relationship management
• Executive-level communication
• Project scheduling and budget management
• New facility/plant implementation
• Commissioning and operational readiness

Why Join Design Systems, Inc.?

At Design Systems, Inc., you'll have the opportunity to work on challenging, high-impact manufacturing projects while partnering with leading organizations to solve real operational and business challenges.

You'll work with talented professionals across engineering, manufacturing, operations, and supply chain while having the opportunity to make a direct impact on our clients' success.

Schedule & Travel

• Full-time position
• Travel to client and manufacturing sites is required as project needs dictate.
• Candidates should be comfortable working in manufacturing and industrial environments.

Education

Bachelor's degree preferred in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, Supply Chain, Business, or a related field.

Experience

10+ years of manufacturing program or project management experience required.

Design Systems, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.