Global Defense Vehicle Program Lead

Ford Motor Company; Dearborn (MI); Hybrid; USD 142,000 - 268,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision coverage

Parental leave & family care days

Tuition assistance

Vehicle discount program

Community service PTO

Job summary

Ford Motor Company is seeking a Program Manager to lead and mentor a high-performing team, driving critical processes and on-time delivery for tactical defense vehicle programs. You will advise the Chief Program Engineer (CPE) and navigate a regulated defense environment, shaping requirements and cross-functional execution.

You will work with government and defense partners, manage budgets, and oversee governance, risk, and performance in a globally distributed program setting.

Qualifications

• Experience leading defense or defense ground vehicle programs.
• Proven ability to manage complex, cross-functional initiatives.
• Knowledge of DoD acquisition processes and defense contracting.
• Familiarity with ITAR, CUI and export controls in programs.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end program execution from capture through delivery and sustainment.
• Identify, quantify, and mitigate program risks and issues with owners and dates.
• Interface with government and defense partners; support capture activities.
• Foster compliance with defense regulations and drive continuous improvement.
• Direct program management staff and collaborate with cross-functional teams.

Skills

Program leadership

Defense experience

Stakeholder management

Executive communication

Budget & forecasting

Cross-functional collaboration

Regulatory compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Ford Motor Company is seeking a Program Manager to lead and mentor a high-performing team, driving critical processes and on-time delivery for tactical defense vehicle programs. You will advise the Chief Program Engineer (CPE) and navigate a regulated defense environment, shaping requirements and cross-functional execution.

You will work with government and defense partners, manage budgets, and oversee governance, risk, and performance in a globally distributed program setting.