Program Manager Jobs in South Bend, IN (NOW HIRING)

Description

Associate Program Manager

Internal Opportunity for Current POLYWOOD Employees 

Full Time | Syracuse, IN

Turn complex customer programs into seamless execution and lasting retail partnerships.

At POLYWOOD, we're redefining outdoor living through innovative products, sustainable manufacturing, and strong retail partnerships. As the industry pioneer in outdoor furniture made from recycled plastics, we've built our success by investing in exceptional people who are passionate about collaboration, continuous improvement, and delivering outstanding customer experiences.

We're looking for an Associate Program Manager who enjoys solving complex problems, building cross-functional relationships, and helping bring customer programs to life. This role offers an opportunity to develop strategic account management skills while working alongside experienced Program Managers and Business Development leaders, with a clear path for career growth.

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The Work You'll Lead

As Associate Program Manager, you will serve as the operational hub for assigned customer initiatives. Working closely with Program Managers and Business Development Managers, you will coordinate across departments to launch programs successfully, exceed customer expectations, and achieve business objectives. You'll become an expert on assigned accounts while balancing strategic thinking with detail-focused, day-to-day execution.

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Where You Will Make an Impact

• Supporting strategic customer programs from initial planning through implementation and ongoing management
• Coordinating cross-functional activities so projects remain on schedule and meet customer expectations
• Monitoring timelines, deliverables, and milestones while proactively identifying and resolving risks
• Helping execute product launches, assortment updates, merchandising initiatives, promotions, and other key program activities
• Partnering across Business Development, Marketing, Product, Supply Chain, Operations, Customer Experience, Finance, and Manufacturing to share information and remove roadblocks
• Developing deep expertise in assigned customer strategies, processes, systems, and contractual requirements
• Supporting strong customer relationships through timely communication, reliable follow-through, meetings, business reviews, trade shows, and onsite visits
• Identifying, documenting, and implementing process improvements that increase efficiency and enhance the customer experience
• Supporting assortment management, promotional planning, forecasting, and performance reviews while identifying opportunities to improve sales and execution

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What You Bring

• You enjoy organizing complex projects, bringing clarity to moving pieces, and taking ownership through completion.
• You build trust quickly and communicate confidently with teammates, customers, and leaders across the organization.
• You are naturally curious, proactive in solving problems, and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment where priorities can shift.
• You balance strategic thinking with strong attention to detail and look for better, more efficient ways of working.

The strongest candidates will likely bring:

• A bachelor's degree in Business, Project Management, Supply Chain, Marketing, or a related field, or equivalent experience
• 2-5 years of experience in project management, program management, account management, operations, or a related business role
• Strong organizational and project management skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• The ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency with Google Workspace or Microsoft Office, especially Excel or Sheets
• Experience supporting retail customers or national accounts preferred
• Experience working with cross-functional business teams
• Familiarity with project management tools and CRM systems preferred
• Experience in manufacturing, consumer products, or retail industries preferred

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About POLYWOOD

At POLYWOOD, we design and build outdoor furniture that brings people together and stands the test of time.

Our genuine POLYWOOD lumber is made from recycled and reusable plastics, and our furniture is built with durability, quality, and sustainability in mind.

Behind every product we make is a team of people who care about doing things the right way. This role connects customer goals with the cross-functional execution needed to deliver successful programs and lasting retail partnerships.

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Why This Role Matters

This is more than a project coordination role. You will work with some of the country's largest retail partners, collaborate across nearly every department, and gain exposure to strategic customer planning. The experience you build here will prepare you for future Program Manager and leadership opportunities in a culture where ideas, ownership, and continuous improvement are valued.

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If you are energized by customer programs, cross-functional collaboration, and turning complex plans into action, this could be a great next step. Apply today! 

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POLYWOOD is an equal opportunity employer. POLYWOOD evaluates qualified applicants without regard to characteristics protected by federal, state, or local laws.