Job Title

Deputy Manager - Launch - MRS Launch

Job Details

Location: Pune

Business Unit: Tenneco - Monroe Ride Solutions (MRS)

Reports To: Plant Head / Program Management Director

Role Overview

The Launch Manager - MRS Launch is responsible for end-to-end execution of new product/program launches for suspension systems (dampers, shock absorbers) at the Chakan facility. This role ensures on-time, on-cost, and on-quality launches while coordinating cross-functional teams including Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, Quality, and Customers (OEMs). The role is critical to ensure flawless program industrialization in a fast-paced automotive manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead end-to-end program launch lifecycle from RFQ handover to SOP (Start of Production).
- Develop and manage detailed launch timelines, milestones, and risk mitigation plans.
- Drive APQP deliverables and PPAP approvals with customers.
- Act as the single point of contact between internal teams and ensure alignment across teams for seamless industrialization.
- Ensure production line setup, process validation, and capacity readiness.
- Oversee trial builds, pilot runs, and ramp-up activities.
- Ensure zero-defect launch mindset.
- Handle customer audits and launch reviews with OEMs (e.g., Tata Motors, Mahindra, VW, etc.).
- Track and control program budgets, capex, and launch costs.
- Drive cost optimization without compromising quality or delivery.
- Ensure adherence to target costing and profitability goals.




- Identify and mitigate launch risks (technical, supply chain, quality, timing).
- Maintain a robust risk register and escalation mechanism.
- Drive issue resolution with urgency and accountability.
- Work with suppliers to ensure supplier PPAP and development activities.
- Capture lessons learned from launches and institutionalize best practices.
- Drive standardization across MRS launch processes.
- Support future platform scalability and repeat business wins.

Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in mechanical / automotive / production engineering
- MBA / PG in Operations or Program Management preferred
- 10-15+ years in automotive (Tier 1 preferred)
- Minimum 5+ years in program/launch management
- Experience in suspension systems/ Chassis components preferred
- Strong exposure to OEMs in Pune/ Chakan region

Technical Skills
- APQP / PPAP / FMEA / Control Plans
- Recent product introduction (NPI)
- Manufacturing process setup
- Lean Manufacturing / Six Sigma

Leadership & Behavioral Skills
- Strong stakeholder & customer management
- High accountability & execution focus
- Excellent problem-solving and decision-making
- Ability to thrive in high-pressure launch environments

Key Stakeholders
- Internal: Plant Head, Engineering, Operations, Quality, SCM, Finance
- External: OEM customers, Tier-2 suppliers, tooling vendors

Success Metrics
- On-time SOP achievement
- PPAP approval timelines
- Launch cost vs budget adherence
- Zero launch defects / customer complaints
- Ramp-up efficiency & productivity

📌 Deputy Manager - Launch (Pune)
🏢 Tenneco
📍 Pune