The Role
At General Motors, we’re committed to designing, building, and selling the world’s best vehicles. Our vision is rooted in a customer-first culture and powered by innovation, collaboration, and excellence. As a Global VAA Lead – Execution, you will play a critical role in ensuring flawless launches of Value-Added Assembly (VAA) programs by working closely with suppliers and cross-functional GM teams. You’ll be the central point of contact for VAA execution, driving alignment, accountability, and results across the launch lifecycle.
What You'll Do
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Act as the single point of contact for all VAA process-related issues
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Lead technical reviews and provide VAA subject matter expertise
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Support eSOR kick-off processes with VAA Strategy & Planning and Manufacturing Integration Management teams
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Provide cost target estimates for VAA modules during sourcing
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Oversee and mentor VAA Program Manufacturing Engineers (MEs)
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Ensure VAA Suppliers have access to all necessary documentation (e.g., Control Drawings, MPD, PFEP, BOMs, ECRs)
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Develop and maintain standardized VAA processes and documentation (TISs, RASIC, forms, timelines)
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Contribute to business case development and cost input for MPS studies
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Support approval of sequence racks, PCPs, tooling, equipment, and plant layouts
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Collaborate with Execution MEs and QEs to review VAA quality plans
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Coordinate with Strategy & Planning to secure Start-Up funds for VAA Pre-Production
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Lead System Validation Build Audits at key program phases
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Facilitate recurring meetings with VAA Suppliers and attend weekly MIT meetings
Your Skills & Abilities (Required Qualifications)
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8–10 years of experience in automotive manufacturing, including JIT assembly and sequencing of VAA modules
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Minimum 4 years in project or program management
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Deep understanding of tooling, equipment, material flow, and quality systems in high-volume environments
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Proficient in time studies, line balancing, and throughput analysis
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Skilled in PFMEA development and error-proofing techniques (e.g., vision systems, part presence sensing)
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Strong verbal and written communication skills in English
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Excellent interpersonal, team-building, and organizational abilities
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Self-motivated with effective time management
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Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
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Confident presenter with the ability to clearly convey technical concepts
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Proficient in the use of Microsoft products (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Access)
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Willingness to travel to GM assembly plants and supplier facilities
What Can Give You a Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)
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Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related field preferred; equivalent experience in automotive manufacturing may also be considered
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Extensive hands-on experience with VAA module assembly processes, including tooling and mistake-proofing
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Knowledge of cost estimation, budgeting, and financial impact analysis
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Ability to influence cross-functional teams and communicate with senior leadership
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Familiarity with body dimensional analysis, GD&T, and part data interpretation
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Understanding of GM’s Global Vehicle Development Process (GVDP) or similar frameworks
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Experience using GM systems such as eMerge, TeamCenter, GPIM, and APM
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Prior experience in automotive manufacturing plants with strong supplier integration knowledge
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