Senior Program Manager

At Toyota Research Institute (TRI), we're on a mission to improve the quality of human life. We're developing new tools and capabilities to amplify the human experience via high-risk, high-reward, use-inspired research. To lead a dynamic shift in mobility for Toyota, we've built a world-class team in Energy & Materials, Human-Centered AI, Human Interactive Driving, Large Behavioral Models, and Robotics.

Toyota is launching a new company-wide initiative to unlock innovation with Artificial Intelligence. This Global AI Accelerator (GAIA) initiative will invest billions of dollars in AI research, development, production, education, and computing. Toyota has long been passionate about how innovation impacts people and how new technologies can improve the quality of life of our customers and workers. Building on this legacy, we are taking a uniquely human-centric approach to AI.

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Senior Program Manager to help Toyota scale this initiative. As a Senior Program Manager, you will help manage the system for selecting which AI research projects Toyota should undertake, and you will directly support the research managers who lead all aspects of the portfolio of AI research projects. Ultimately, you will bring value to Toyota by enabling a global set of partners to accelerate high-impact AI research.

• At the global program level, help manage the overall system for fielding research proposals, selecting projects, and getting projects off the ground. Build detailed project plans for phases of the program that outline key administrative achievements, timelines, and resource allocation. Coordinate with cross-functional teams across different geographies to ensure alignment and smooth execution of the overall program. Ensure that the initiative is adequately resourced and equipped to meet its goals while staying within budgets.
• At the research project level, provide support for research topic managers to supervise their portfolios of research projects. There are numerous managers overseeing portfolios of projects within different topic areas. Assist these leaders and serve as a liaison between the research managers and the central administrative team.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for stakeholders, including researchers and business leaders. Facilitate regular updates and meetings to ensure all parties are informed about project progress, challenges, and changes. This includes writing email updates, hosting meetings, and publishing website updates.
• Cultivate effective collaboration and communication between various divisions across international borders. Implement strategies to bridge cultural and operational differences, ensuring cohesive partnership and the successful integration of global perspectives into the initiative.
• Ensure that all project activities adhere to the company’s quality standards and regulatory requirements. Implement processes to monitor and evaluate the quality of the research outputs, ensuring they meet the necessary compliance standards.

• Bachelor's degree in business, finance, or a related field with 6-10 years of proven experience in Program Management or a related role
• Proven experience managing sophisticated projects, preferably within the technology or research sectors. Experience with AI or data science projects is a significant advantage.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively collaborate with diverse teams and present information to stakeholders at various levels of the organization.
• Ability to analyze complex situations, identify problems, and develop strategic solutions. Self-motivated to operate independently and make decisions in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Experience working in a global business environment with an understanding of different cultural perspectives. The ability to navigate and lead projects across diverse geographical locations is essential. Insight and an ability to bridge boundaries are also essential to cultivate team collaboration. Proficiency in English is required, and proficiency in Japanese is a plus.

The pay range for this position at commencement of employment is expected to be between $148,000 and $222,000/year for California-based roles; however, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Note that TRI offers a generous benefits package (including 401(k) eligibility and various paid time off benefits, such as vacation, sick time, and parental leave) and an annual cash bonus structure. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.

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