Leadership Program Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Wahl Empowers People To Be Their Best!Lead Programs That Bring Ideas to LifeAt Wahl, innovation doesn't happen by chance-it's driven by people who can turn complex ideas into real, market-ready products. As a Program Manager, you'll lead cross-functional product development programs from concept through launch, ensuring every detail-from engineering to execution-comes together seamlessly.You'll operate at the center of it all-balancing technical complexity, timelines, and business priorities while guiding teams toward high-quality outcomes. If you thrive on solving problems, aligning teams, and delivering results in fast-moving environments, this is where your leadership makes an impact.This position may sit in the Sterling Headquarters location or our Rosemont, IL location.What You'll DoAs a Program Manager, you'll lead product development programs end-to-end while ensuring alignment, visibility, and execution across teams. Your day-to-day will include:Lead end-to-end product development programs from initial concept through production launch, managing scope, schedule, budget, and quality objectivesFacilitate cross-functional collaboration across Engineering, Industrial Design, Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, Marketing, and Finance teamsDevelop and maintain comprehensive project plans, including work breakdown structures, resource allocations, critical path analysis, and milestone trackingChair project review meetings and stage-gate reviews, preparing materials and facilitating decision-making at appropriate organizational levelsManage multiple concurrent projects, prioritizing resources and resolving conflicts to optimize portfolio performanceWork closely with Engineering teams to understand technical requirements, constraints, and risks associated with new technologies and design approachesTranslate technical concepts and trade-offs for non-technical stakeholders, ensuring informed business decisionsIdentify technical dependencies and integration points across mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing workstreamsSupport technical teams in developing validation plans, design verification testing, and production qualification activitiesUnderstand manufacturing processes (injection molding, assembly, electronics integration) well enough to identify schedule and cost risks earlyProactively identify program risks related to technology readiness, supplier capability, regulatory compliance, and market timingMaintain CRAID logs (Change Requests, Risks, Actions, Issues, Decisions) and drive resolution through appropriate channelsEscalate critical issues to leadership with recommended solutions and decision frameworksManage engineering change processes during development and launch phasesFacilitate root cause analysis for program delays or failures and implement corrective actionsServe as the primary point of contact for program status, communicating progress, risks, and decisions to executive leadershipPrepare executive-level presentations, business cases, and decision communicationsBuild strong relationships with global manufacturing partners and suppliers, coordinating activities across time zonesFoster a collaborative team environment that encourages innovation, problem-solving, and accountabilityMentor junior project coordinators and support development of project management capabilities across the organization What You BringBachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial) or related technical discipline; MBA or advanced degree preferred 5-7 years of project/program management experience in consumer products, appliances, or related hardware industriesDemonstrated track record of successfully leading product development projects from concept to production launchTechnical KnowledgeStrong understanding of product development processes and stage-gate methodologies, include Waterfall and Agile (Scrum, KanBan, SAFe ,etc.)Working knowledge of mechanical design principles, injection molding, electronics integration, and manufacturing processesAbility to read and interpret technical drawings, CAD models, and engineering specificationsUnderstanding of design validation, reliability testing, and production qualification requirementsFamiliarity with regulatory requirements for consumer electrical products (UL, ETL, CE, FCC)Project Management ExpertiseProficiency with project management tools (Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, Jira, or similar)Experience with both Waterfall/Stage-Gate and Agile methodologies; ability to adapt approach based on project needsStrong understanding of critical path analysis, resource leveling, and schedule optimization techniquesExperience managing projects with Asian manufacturing partners and contract manufacturersPMP, PMI-ACP, or equivalent certification preferredProfessional CompetenciesExceptional organizational skills with ability to manage complexity and ambiguityStrong analytical and problem-solving abilities with data-driven decision-making approachOutstanding communication skills-both written and verbal-for technical and executive audiencesProven ability to influence without direct authority and build consensus across diverse stakeholdersResults-oriented mindset with strong business acumen and customer focusComfortable with international travel (20-25%) and working across multiple time zones Preferred QualificationsExperience in professional or consumer grooming products, beauty appliances, or personal care devicesKnowledge of battery technologies, BLDC motors, and cordless product developmentExposure to Lean principles, Design Thinking, or Lean UX methodologiesExperience leading innovation or advanced technology development programsSix Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification a plusExperience with US-China collaborative development modelsCore Competencies Ensures AccountabilityPlans & alignsManages complexityDevelops talentCourage Why You'll Love Wahl Clipper We offer a competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being and growth, including:Low-cost BCBSIL medical, dental, and vision plansA generous company-matched 401(k) and profit sharingTuition support to fuel your learningPaid holidays and a vibrant, casual work environmentBut that's just the beginning. At Wahl, you'll also enjoy:A legacy of quality and innovation.A team that values your expertise and ideas.Opportunities to grow and contribute to meaningful projects.A culture built on respect, precision, and progress.Ready to Lead What's Next?If you're a program leader who thrives on driving alignment, solving complex challenges, and delivering innovative products to market, we'd love to meet you. Apply today and help bring the next generation of Wahl products to life.