The Executive Program Manager will lead the planning, execution, and successful delivery of large-scale HVAC projects for naval and commercial vessels. This senior role requires strategic oversight of multiple concurrent projects, managing cross-functional teams, budget control, risk management, and ensuring compliance with maritime standards and client requirements.
The ideal candidate combines deep technical knowledge of marine HVAC systems with proven leadership in managing complex shipbuilding or retrofit programs.
Oversee the entire program lifecycle for HVAC system design, installation, testing, and commissioning on naval and commercial vessel projects.
Develop and execute program plans, including schedules, budgets, resource allocation, and milestone tracking.
Coordinate multi-disciplinary teams comprising design engineers, procurement, fabrication, quality assurance, and installation contractors.
Ensure all HVAC projects comply with applicable naval specifications, IMO standards, classification society rules, and client technical requirements.
Drive risk management processes, identifying potential project risks and implementing mitigation strategies.
Liaise with clients, shipyards, suppliers, and regulatory bodies to ensure alignment on project scope, timelines, and quality expectations.
Lead technical reviews, design validation, and integration planning to ensure HVAC systems meet operational and environmental performance goals.
Monitor program KPIs, prepare progress reports, and present status updates to senior leadership and stakeholders.
Champion continuous improvement initiatives, applying lessons learned to enhance project delivery and cost efficiency.
Manage contract negotiations, change orders, and dispute resolution related to HVAC scope and deliverables.
Mentor and develop project managers and engineers within the program team.
Program Leadership & Strategic Oversight
Manage multiple HVAC projects simultaneously, ensuring on-time, on-budget delivery.
Technical Compliance & Quality Assurance
Guarantee HVAC system compliance with military/naval standards (e.g., MIL-STD, NAVSEA), IMO, and class society requirements.
Stakeholder Engagement & Communication
Build strong relationships with clients, regulatory agencies, and internal teams to foster collaboration.
Risk & Change Management
Proactively identify and mitigate risks; manage scope changes and ensure impact assessments.
Resource & Budget Optimization
Optimize use of personnel, equipment, and financial resources across projects.
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Marine Engineering, or related discipline.
10+ years of program/project management experience with at least 5 years focused on marine HVAC or shipboard systems projects.
Proven track record managing large-scale naval or commercial vessel HVAC installations or upgrades.
Strong knowledge of naval specifications, IMO regulations, and classification society requirements.
Project Management Professional (PMP) or equivalent certification preferred.
Exceptional leadership, negotiation, and communication skills.
Proficient in project management tools (MS Project, Primavera P6, or equivalent).
Ability to work in fast-paced, complex environments with multiple stakeholders.
Experience with naval shipbuilding or defense contracts.
Familiarity with integrated ship systems and HVAC automation controls.
Knowledge of sustainability initiatives and energy-efficient HVAC technologies in maritime applications.