ERIC SUTHERLAND
Richland,MI
Summary
Dynamic Program Manager with a proven track record of results and earned responsibility, leading multimillion-dollar launches, and achieving record-setting Launch Readiness scores. An expert in quality, problem-solving methodologies, and a certified product safety and conformity representative, I parlay my passion for reading and learning into understanding the unique personalities of my team and developing them into an effective force.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
PROGRAM MANAGER
Summit Polymers
Portage, MI
02.2023 - 02.2025
- Oversaw multiple program launches valued between $10 and $65 million for premium & luxury vehicles; leading teams of 10-30+ people.
- Achieved record high Launch Readiness score (1160 out of 1300), an 81% improvement over prior launches.
- Ensured supply-chain resilience by relocating Chinese operations to US manufacturing facilities.
- Certified VDA Product Safety & Conformity Representative (PSCR).
- Mentored plant quality teams to improve problem solving and effective customer communication.
- *Laid off due to company downsizing.
ENGINEERING PROGRAM MANAGER
Sturgis Molded Products
Sturgis, MI
02.2022 - 02.2023
- APQP Owner, launched over 20 new products with combined responsibilities from Quality, Project, and Tool Engineering.
- Delivered on diverse industry launch specifications, including automotive, consumer goods, and pharmaceutical products.
- Modernized Quality Management documentation through comprehensive review of ERP database.
- Received commendation from VP of Engineering while frequently working late during 4-week notice period: “You’ve been working hard, and that speaks to your character.”
- *Left SMP to improve 65 min commute upon wife becoming pregnant.
QUALITY ENGINEER
Mann+Hummel
Portage, MI
04.2017 - 02.2022
- Quality lead for new production site expansion in 2017.
- First Quality Engineer to receive zero findings as representative for an IATF audit.
- Grew responsibility throughout tenure, assuming oversight for two-thirds of plant production and an off-site facility.
- Earned an unrequested 30% raise in 2020 to match professional worth.
ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE CLERK
Perrigo Pharmaceuticals
Allegan, MI
01.2015 - 04.2017
- Introduced automation to improve efficiency of unsaleable processing - reducing total required keystrokes from 80+ down to 6.
PROCESS ENGINEERING INTERN (Summers)
Perrigo Pharmaceuticals
Allegan, MI
06.2009 - 08.2011
- Improved line clearance effectiveness in response to FDA warning letter.
- Completed multiple efficiency improvements to granulation and packaging process flows within GMP environment.
Education
BBA - FINANCE
Skills
- Project Management
- Quality Management
- VDA Product Safety & Compliance Representative (PSCR)
- APQP, PPAP
- Problem Solving (8D, A3, 5Why, Fishbone, etc)
- Kaizen Continuous Improvement
- New Product Development
Personal
Hobbies & Interests:
- Photography
- Hiking
- Wine/Cider making
Books:
- Atomic Habits - James Clear
- Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World - Cal Newport
- Emotional Agility: Get Unstuck, Embrace Change, and Thrive in Work and Life - Susan David
- Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals - Oliver Burkeman
- Ethics 101: What Every Leader Needs To Know - John Maxwell
- How to Win Friends and Influence People - Dale Carnegie
Timeline
PROGRAM MANAGER - Summit Polymers
02.2023 - 02.2025
ENGINEERING PROGRAM MANAGER - Sturgis Molded Products
02.2022 - 02.2023
QUALITY ENGINEER - Mann+Hummel
04.2017 - 02.2022
ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE CLERK - Perrigo Pharmaceuticals
01.2015 - 04.2017
PROCESS ENGINEERING INTERN (Summers) - Perrigo Pharmaceuticals
06.2009 - 08.2011
Eastern Michigan University - BBA, FINANCE
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