Program Manager Job Description

Role Overview:

We are seeking a seasoned Programme Manager to lead a multi-year Trade Programme, a strategic initiative within a transformation roadmap. The programme is entering its Build Phase in October 2025, following a successful tender and planning cycle. The selected candidate will be responsible for end-to-end programme delivery, ensuring alignment across divisions, vendors, and internal stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the execution of the Trade Programme across its full lifecycle: Build, Test, Rollout, and Sustain phases.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams, including internal divisions and external partners.
• Manage cost governance.
• Drive programme governance, reporting, and risk management in line with standards.
• Ensure timely delivery of programme milestones, managing dependencies with related initiatives.
• Oversee resource planning and onboarding.
• Facilitate alignment workshops and technical integration across programmes.
• Represent the programme in executive forums and ensure stakeholder buy-in.

Required Qualifications:

• Proven experience managing large-scale, multi-year transformation programmes in complex, matrixed organisations.
• Strong background in IT programme delivery, ideally within the automotive or manufacturing sectors.
• Demonstrated ability to manage vendor relationships and multi-country delivery teams.
• Expertise in SAP S/4HANA implementations and cross-system integration is highly desirable.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Fluency in English; additional European languages are a plus.

Desirable Attributes:

• Familiarity with internal systems, governance structures, and transformation initiatives.
• Ability to manage programme interdependencies and shared development objects across initiatives.

Contract & Logistics:

• Start Date: ASAP
• Duration: Multi-year engagement aligned with the Trade Programme roadmap.
• Expected on-site presence: 60% (3 days/week), with flexibility for business travel.
• Location: Primarily based in Gent, with hybrid working.