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Lead Program Manager
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Wuxi-CN
What you will do:
Johnson Controls is seeking a strategic and experienced Program Manager to lead a team of Program Managers within the Chiller business unit, which develops innovative products for the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) market. This role is responsible for overseeing the successful execution of complex, cross-functional programs and for managing a high-performing team. The Lead Program Manager will also serve as the local champion for Johnson Controls’ Rapid Closed Loop Process (RCLP)—our phase-gate product development framework—driving adoption, continuous improvement, and organizational alignment with this critical methodology. This role will be based in the Johnson Controls China Wuxi Center and will report to the Director of Program Management for the HVACR business.
How you will do it:
Team Leadership & People Management
· Directly manage a team of five Program Managers, providing leadership, coaching, and performance management
· Lead all aspects of people development, including hiring, onboarding, goal setting, development planning and career progression
· Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement
Program Oversight & Execution
· Provide strategic oversight for the planning, execution, and delivery of key programs within the Chiller product portfolio
· Lead or support large, strategic programs or initiatives as needed, ensuring alignment with global business priorities and cross-regional collaboration
· Ensure alignment of program objectives with business goals and stakeholder expectations
· Monitor program performance, manage risks, and implement mitigation strategies
· Promote the use of standardized tools, templates, and methodologies to ensure consistency and quality
Process Leadership and Operational Excellence
· Act as the local champion for the Rapid Closed Loop Process (RCLP), Johnson Controls’ phase-gate product development framework
· Coach and train team members and cross-functional stakeholders on effective RCLP implementation
· Lead local initiatives to improve RCLP adoption, maturity, and effectiveness
· Develop and share best practices, tools, and templates to support consistent application of the process
· Promote program management excellence through continuous improvement initiatives
· Ensure compliance with internal policies, standards, and regulatory requirements
· Contribute to strategic planning and organizational development efforts
Stakeholder Engagement
· Collaborate closely with the Director of Program Management to ensure alignment with global program strategies and priorities
· Serve as a key liaison between local teams and regional/global leadership
· Communicate program status, risks, and opportunities clearly and effectively
What we look for:
Required
· Bachelor of Science (BS) in Engineering or related field
· Typically requires 8+ years of experience in project or program management. Candidates with less than the minimum experience in project/program management may also be considered if they possess strong leadership capabilities through prior experiences leading teams, cross-functional initiatives, or complex projects in other functional management roles
· Strong knowledge of and first-hand experience with phase-gate product development processes
· Demonstrated ability to lead change and drive process improvement
· Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills
· Knowledge of and ability to situationally leverage appropriate project management methodologies (Predictive, Agile)
· Skilled in using project management planning tools (such as Microsoft Project) and the Microsoft O365 software suite
· Willingness and ability to travel (within China and the United States) as necessary
· Fluency in English
Preferred
· Master’s degree (e.g., MBA or a related advanced degree)
· Project management certification (e.g., PMP)
· Proven experience managing and developing high-performing teams
· Prior experience in the HVAC industry, particularly in chiller or related product development
