ER&D Manager – Program Controlling

The ER&D Manager – Program Controlling leads the organization responsible for end-to-end financial controlling of engineering development programs assigned to the North American market, regardless of the geographic location where development activities are performed.

The position oversees financial controlling activities across Main Programs, including vehicle development (Top Hats/Platforms), Propulsion Systems (Engines/Transmissions), and Modules (Connected Services, Autonomous Driving, Electrical and Electronic Architecture, and Audio & Infotainment Systems).

The Manager leads a team of 10 direct reports, responsible for program financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, expenditure monitoring, funding governance, and financial performance management. The position reports directly to the Director, ER&D Controlling – North America and partners with Program Chief Vehicle Engineers (CVEs) and their teams, as well as with other ER&D NA Controlling members.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Lead the North America Main Program Controlling organization, providing managerial direction, performance oversight, and operational guidance to a team of 10 Project Economic Controllers (PECs)
• Oversee end-to-end financial controlling of engineering development programs assigned to the North American market, including expenditures incurred across global engineering locations
• Direct multi-year budgeting, rolling forecasts, monthly closing coordination, and financial performance reviews for vehicle, propulsion, and module development programs
• Ensure financial governance of approved program investments, including budget monitoring, expenditure tracking, variance analysis, financial risk identification, and corrective action recommendations
• Oversee program funding management, including SAP Checkbooks/WBS structures, funding availability, and purchasing requisition validation in accordance with corporate policies
• Support Chief Vehicle Engineers, Program Management, and Engineering leadership through financial reviews, investment analysis, management reporting, and business decision support
• Establish standardized financial controlling procedures, reporting methodologies, forecasting practices, and internal controls to improve data reliability and financial transparency across development programs

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, or a related field
• Minimum of 10 years' experience in Finance or Accounting
• Demonstrated experience in financial controlling, budgeting, forecasting, and financial performance management
• Previous experience leading teams and coordinating cross-functional financial activities
• Strong analytical, financial management, communication, and stakeholder management skills
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and ERP systems

Preferred Qualifications

• MBA, CPA, or equivalent advanced qualification
• Experience with SAP, financial planning, and reporting systems (OneStream, HFM, Essbase, or Power BI)
• Experience in automotive engineering controlling, FP&A, or program financial management
• Experience coordinating financial activities across international and cross-functional organizations