Program Director

Our client is a leader in developing and manufacturing cutting edge anode material for lithium-ion batteries. They’re looking for a highly qualified and seasoned Program Director to drive the scale-up and launch of their next generation silicon anode material. This position will lead the end-to-end program execution, helping to advance the production of their innovative silicon anode technology.

The ideal candidate will bring extensive experience in the battery industry, particularly in areas of scale-up, product launches, and process optimization. In this pivotal role, the Program Director will contribute significantly to the company’s growth by steering the development and commercial launch of their advanced material.

Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, this role will act as a central link between Business Development, R&D, Battery Cell Development, and Operations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Program Management: Oversee successful new product launches by managing commercial timelines, supply chain scale-up, and production equipment readiness. Develop timelines, manage resource allocation, and oversee process development and optimization. Ensure alignment of technical and project roadmaps with company goals.
• New Business Support: Drive new business initiatives by managing program scope, scheduling, and cost/price proposals. Lead negotiation efforts to support the company's business goals.
• Contract Management: Administer multiple contracts related to next-generation anode materials, overseeing cost, scheduling, milestones, and customer sampling. Coordinate testing, qualification, and material deliveries.
• Project Management: Manage CAPEX projects for Contracts and New Product Launches, including design, vendor selection, construction, and production ramp-up.
• Champion Best Practices: Establish and promote best practices for program management, covering scope, schedule, costs, revenue, and risk/opportunity management.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaborate with R&D, business development, operations, quality control, and supply chain teams to ensure seamless integration and alignment on technical strategies. Promote a collaborative and innovative culture.
• Team Leadership: Offer strong guidance and mentorship to the engineering team, fostering a culture of learning and development. Set clear objectives, monitor progress, and drive team success.

Required Qualifications:

• Battery Industry Experience: Candidates with experience in companies that manufacture or sell battery materials or cells are preferred. Familiarity with the battery materials sector and its unique requirements is highly valued.
• In-Depth Battery Knowledge: Knowledge of battery technologies, industry trends, and market dynamics is preferred, with 5 years of experience in the field.
• Program Management Expertise: Strong background in program management, with experience overseeing customer, government, and other program plans. Proven ability to manage development, scale-up, and product launches.
• Scale-Up & Product Launch Success: Demonstrated success in process scale-up and product launches, including selecting and implementing larger-scale equipment and overcoming scale-up challenges. Ideally, the candidate will have hands-on experience with scalable battery equipment and a track record of successful commercial product launches.
• Strategic & Holistic Thinking: Ability to assess a range of factors—including technology, equipment, supply chain, and customer needs—to make informed decisions that align with company goals and timelines.
• Problem-Solving & Analytical Skills: Excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities, with strong attention to detail and a data-oriented approach to decision-making.
• Leadership & Team Collaboration: Demonstrated ability to inspire and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders, fostering a culture of innovation.
• Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills, along with strong organizational abilities for managing multiple priorities.
• Education: A bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field is required. An advanced degree in a relevant area is preferred.

**Professionals with a proven track record in program and project management, scale-up, product launches, and battery industry qualifications are encouraged to apply for this Program Director opportunity.