Manager, PMO

Samuel, Son & Co.; Southwestern Ontario; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automation firm in Southwestern Ontario is seeking a Manager, PMO. The successful candidate will lead the Project Management Office, oversee project execution, and enhance processes while ensuring customer satisfaction. The role requires over 10 years of experience in project management, strong leadership skills, and familiarity with automation systems. Competitive benefits and opportunities for professional growth are offered.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in custom automation or machinery project management.
• 5+ years in a leadership role with people management responsibility.
• Valid passport and driver's license for travel.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Project Management Office for successful project execution.
• Define and implement annual PMO objectives based on corporate priorities.
• Manage departmental resources and promote continuous improvement.

Skills

Strong leadership capabilities

Technical understanding of automation systems

Experience in managing complex projects

Proficiency in MS Project and Excel

Skilled in interpreting technical documentation

Knowledge of ISO standards

Excellent communication skills

Education

Post-secondary education in engineering, business, or related field

PMP certification

Tools

MS Project

Excel

AutoCAD

Job description

Overview

As the Manager, PMO at Samuel Automation, Waterloo, you will lead the Project Management Office to ensure the successful execution of complex custom automation projects from concept through to commissioning. Reporting to the Vice President, Operations, you will oversee all aspects of project leadership, governance, and continuous improvement, ensuring projects are delivered on-time, on-budget, and to specification while maintaining a strong focus on customer satisfaction and internal team alignment.

What You’ll be Doing

• Define and implement annual PMO objectives based on corporate priorities, with regular tracking and reporting of progress.
• Lead and mentor a team of Project Managers, conducting performance reviews, coaching, and supporting career development.
• Develop, optimize, and standardize project management processes, tools, and documentation.
• Maintain and enhance ISO-compliant procedures within the PMO.
• Establish and maintain short- and long-term capacity plans to support project delivery timelines.
• Participate in key meetings including production updates, design reviews, and pull planning sessions.
• Ensure team compliance with health and safety requirements and lead department-specific safety training.
• Manage departmental resources, including equipment planning and readiness.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement using KPIs and data to drive performance.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Sales, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain to remove barriers to delivery.
• Serve as a key liaison between the PMO and senior leadership, communicating portfolio status and risk.

Position Requirements

• Strong leadership capabilities with a track record of developing high-performing project teams.
• Solid technical understanding of automation systems (robotics, controls, pneumatics, etc.) and custom machinery.
• Demonstrated experience in managing complex, multi-disciplinary projects.
• Proficiency in MS Project, Excel, and document management systems; familiarity with AutoCAD is an asset.
• Skilled in interpreting mechanical and electrical drawings and technical documentation.
• Experienced in capacity planning, resource allocation, and balancing project constraints.
• Knowledge of ISO standards, project risk mitigation, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong communicator with excellent organizational and problem-solving skills.

Education, Experience, and Qualifications

• Post-secondary education in engineering, business, or a related technical field.
• PMP certification (or equivalent) strongly preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in custom automation or special-purpose machinery project management.
• 5+ years in a leadership role with direct people management responsibility.
• Valid passport and driver’s license with ability to travel to customer sites domestically and internationally.

Autonomy and Authority

• Operates with significant autonomy in managing the PMO’s execution and strategic direction.
• Responsible for hiring, training, development, and performance management of PMO staff.
• Makes decisions aligned with organizational objectives and project commitments.
• Accountable for customer satisfaction, team performance, and on-time project delivery.

Special Requirements

• Frequent presence on the shop floor and in engineering areas.
• Ability to walk, stand, and move through a manufacturing facility as needed.
• Occasional travel to customer sites, vendors, or other company locations.
• Comfortable working in a dynamic, evolving environment with competing priorities.