Project Manager- Carts

Position OverviewThe Project Manager is primarily and directly accountable for the development of scope, schedule, cost estimates, and execution of cross-functional product development projects. The PM will lead, manage, plan, and administer the operational activities for one or more global project teams, driving direction and implementing project management best practices. This role will organize project activities and project team meetings including resources and stakeholders; ensures communication facilitates completion of the program/project on schedule and within budget constraints.WNA may have multiple product development projects ongoing at any given time which are cross-functional, resourced internationally, and involve customers, partners, and other stakeholders related to the development of products for North America. Development projects will cover the entire product development cycle, from ideation through production. Various teams and team members may be located across Europe, China, and/or North America, and therefore close coordination and management of the global team is required. The ideal candidate will have a keen understanding of product development for durable goods, including a strong understanding of injection molding and associated tooling, metalworking, welding and assembly methods, and production.The PM may also manage other projects and programs (revenue generating and/or capital improvement projects) as assigned by the Company.This position will be located in Newton, NC.Company and Opportunity OverviewWNA’s vision is to be a leading entrepreneurial player in terms of market share, agility, and game-changing solutions. WNA is a solution provider, creating value along the supply chain of our customers, from online purchase to their customers.WNA is headquartered in the Charlotte Metro Area, North Carolina. With around 500 employees and ~$200M of sales, WNA focuses on the retail and distribution market segments with marquee customers such as Walmart, Amazon, and the majority of large grocers and retailers.In addition to being the largest manufacturer of shopping carts in North America, WNA has three additional main product segments as well as a Service business, providing turnkey solutions for customer guidance (Access Systems), Shelving & Fixtures, and Material Handling products.Access Solutions provides sophisticated customer guidance and loss prevention systems for major retailers. With German-engineered products and a strong installed base, this segment focuses on protecting existing market share while expanding into adjacent opportunities in smart retail, autonomous store technology, and digital integration.Additionally, WNA offers a range of digital solutions integrated into our products, including advanced shopping cart containment systems, smart exit gate technology, and innovations for autonomous and semi-autonomous retail stores. We are continuously expanding and enhancing our digital offerings to meet evolving customer needs and drive industry advancement.WNA is part of the Wanzl Group, headquartered in Germany, and has 12 plants in 8 countries, providing comprehensive, solutions-driven service and expert knowledge of local markets for customers across the globe through their 360° service.Duties and Responsibilities:Manage all project phases, including initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and closureCreate project plans, including deliverables, activities, timelines and budgetsAnticipate problems, roadblocks and major obstructions, and plan accordinglyEnsure milestones are successfully met through oversight and coordination of project resources Coordinating project management activities throughout the Wanzl global network to ensure accurate tracking of all inter-project dependenciesCreate and deliver presentations to customer, leadership team, as well as the Management Board in Germany, demonstrating ownership of the entire processLead communication with stakeholders and team members through completion of the projectProvide scheduled and on-demand status reports and updatesDirect project timelines and budgetsAssess, manage, resolve and escalate risks and issues if necessary Understanding of creative development and design processMake decisions based on information and input in a timely mannerCoordinates and responds to requests for changes from original specifications.Monitors project results against technical specificationCreate and maintain comprehensive project management documentationSkills and Experience:Bachelor’s degree; Engineering or Engineering technology, or other technical degree6+ years of work experience; 3+ years of practical project management experience; 2+ years of project management experience within Product DevelopmentPMP certification and or MBA is preferredDemonstrated ability to close projects on time and within budgetDemonstrated experience with plastic injection tooling and production preferredProactive, independent, and strong work ethicAbility to adapt and succeed in a changing environmentAbility to convey information in an organized and easy to understand mannerSolid time management, planning and organization skillsExcellent facilitation, communication, interpersonal, planning, and negotiating skills.Demonstrated ability to motivate and communicate with others at all levelsAble to lead, set direction, energize and harness resources of multiple teams