Program Manager Jobs 2026 (Now Hiring) – Smart Auto Apply

About Us:

CDK Global is a leading provider of cloud-based software to dealerships and Original Equipment Manufacturers ("OEMs") across automotive and related industries. The Company's cloud-based, software as a service ("SaaS") platform enables dealerships to manage their end-to-end business operations including the acquisition, sale, financing, insuring, repair, and maintenance of vehicles. By automating and streamlining critical workflows, the integrated platform of modern solutions enables dealers to sell and service more vehicles by creating simple and convenient experiences for customers and improves their financial and operational performance.

Position Summary:

CDK Global is seeking a Lead Technical Program Manager to lead strategic OEM and Enterprise initiatives, including both short- and long-term project-based engagements as well as ongoing OEM certification and compliance programs. This role serves as the primary liaison between OEM partners, CDK business stakeholders, Product Management, and Technology teams to ensure successful planning, execution, and delivery of complex cross-functional programs.

The ideal candidate combines strong program management discipline with technical acumen and executive communication skills to drive alignment across internal and external stakeholders. This individual will own end-to-end program execution, develop executive-level communications and program artifacts, manage dependencies and risks, and ensure delivery of solutions that meet both OEM and CDK business objectives.

Additionally, the Senior Technical Program Manager will evaluate OEM enhancement requests, identify strategic opportunities, and partner with Product and Engineering teams to define and deliver scalable solutions that support long-term business goals.

Deliverables / Task Overview

Program Planning & Execution

• Track and sustain integrated program plans, roadmaps, and milestone schedules.
• Define and track project deliverables, dependencies, risks, and success metrics.
• Drive execution of complex technical initiatives from planning through launch.
• Ensure alignment between business objectives, technical solutions, and delivery timelines.

Cross-Functional Program Management

• Coordinate activities across Product Management, Engineering, UX, Security, Operations, and Business stakeholders.
• Manage cross-team dependencies and facilitate resolution of blockers impacting delivery.
• Establish clear ownership, accountability, and execution plans across participating teams.
• Drive decision-making and communication to maintain program momentum.

Risk & Issue Management

• Identify, assess, and proactively mitigate program risks.
• Maintain RAID logs (Risks, Assumptions, Issues, and Dependencies).
• Escalate critical issues and provide leadership with recommended mitigation strategies.
• Conduct impact assessments related to scope, schedule, and resource changes.

Technical Delivery Oversight

• Partner with engineering and architecture teams to review technical designs and implementation plans.
• Ensure technical solutions meet scalability, reliability, security, and performance requirements.
• Monitor delivery progress against sprint commitments and program milestones.
• Support release planning, launch readiness reviews, and post-launch assessments.

Stakeholder Communication & Reporting

• Deliver regular program status updates to executives and stakeholders.
• Develop concise executive communications, dashboards, and reporting materials.
• Track and communicate key decisions, program health indicators, and delivery progress.
• Facilitate program reviews, leadership updates, and governance meetings.

Process Improvement & Operational Excellence

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance delivery predictability and operational efficiency.
• Establish and optimize program management frameworks, tools, and best practices.
• Lead retrospectives and implement lessons learned across programs.
• Improve visibility, reporting, and execution processes across teams.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Monitor program health, schedules, milestones, and delivery commitments.
• Facilitate daily and weekly program, engineering, and stakeholder meetings.
• Track action items and ensure follow-through across teams.
• Remove blockers and resolve cross-functional challenges impacting delivery.
• Review project status, identify risks, and drive mitigation plans.
• Coordinate technical reviews, architecture discussions, and release readiness activities.
• Maintain project documentation, dashboards, and stakeholder communications.
• Partner with engineering leadership to ensure successful execution of strategic initiatives.
• Analyze program metrics, delivery performance, and operational KPIs.
• Support strategic planning, roadmap development, and prioritization activities.

Success Measures

• Consistent on-time delivery of program milestones and releases.
• Effective management of cross-functional dependencies and risks.
• High stakeholder satisfaction through clear communication and execution transparency.
• Improved predictability, efficiency, and scalability of delivery processes.
• Successful launch and adoption of strategic technical initiatives.

Compensation: $90,000 - $120,000

CDK Global is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. Compensation packages are based on several factors, including but not limited to skills, experience, certifications, and work location. The total compensation package for this position may also include annual performance bonus, benefits and/or other applicable incentive compensation plans.We offer Medical, dental, and vision benefits in addition to:

• Paid Time Off (PTO)

• 401K Matching Program

• Tuition Reimbursement

At CDK, we believe inclusion and diversity are essential in inspiring meaningful connections to our people, customers and communities. We are open, curious and encourage different views, so that everyone can be their best selves and make an impact.

CDK is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating an inclusive workforce where everyone is valued. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, creed or religion, age, disability (including pregnancy), results of genetic testing, service in the military, veteran status or any other category protected by law.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future employment-based visa sponsorship.

The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship. CDK retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position as needed.