Customer Program Manager
The Customer Program Manager at Wayve will lead and oversee programs with OEM customers, ranging from early-stage advanced development initiatives to full-scale production programs. This role involves close collaboration with customers to define and manage project plans, ensuring seamless integration of requirements into the internal development pipeline and timely delivery. A deep understanding of the automotive industry and embodied AI systems is essential to guide these programs effectively, identify potential risks, and implement robust change management strategies. The position is based in Yokohama or Tokyo, Japan, depending on the candidate's place of residence.
Key responsibilities include leading cross-functional teams to execute complex customer programs, establishing and maintaining comprehensive project management frameworks encompassing project planning, risk management, change management, and task coordination. The role also involves engaging with customers to understand and address their technical requirements, collaborating with Product, R&D, and other departments to translate customer demands into actionable technical requirements, ensuring efficient reporting both externally and internally, aligning customer requirements with internal milestone planning and execution, and providing first-level support to customers to meet their needs promptly and effectively.
The ideal candidate will have extensive program management experience in complex automotive software development, proficiency in program management tools such as Jira to optimize workflow efficiency, robust technical expertise with comprehensive knowledge of the automotive industry, a proactive problem-solving mindset, exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams, and a willingness to travel as needed. Fluency in Japanese and business-level English is required for collaboration with international teams and stakeholders.
Desirable qualifications include knowledge of current AI advancements, including Generative AI, AV 2.0, and Large Language Models (LLMs), hands-on experience in software development, and a Master’s degree in Engineering or Computer Science.
Wayve offers a hybrid working policy that combines time in offices and workshops to fuel innovation, culture, relationships, and learning, with time spent working from home. Core working hours are operated so that employees can determine the schedule that works best for them and their team. The company is committed to creating an inclusive interview experience and encourages applicants to inform them of any accommodations or adjustments needed to participate fully in the interview process. Wayve values diversity, embraces new perspectives, and fosters an inclusive work environment, backing each other to deliver impact.