Principal Program Manager - Turnkey Projects LATAM

A career at Hitachi Rail will help create a legacy. With operations in every corner of the world, our work goes to the cutting-edge of digital transformation and technology. From the multi-cultural strength of our global organisation to the sustainable and innovative ways we work to bring people together, there’s something for everyone to get stuck into. And that’s where you come in.

Lead and manage large-scale, complex turnkey projects across Latin America, ensuring successful delivery from conception to completion. This role requires a strategic leader capable of driving execution, managing diverse teams, and fostering strong client relationships.

- Oversee the full project lifecycle of multiple turnkey projects simultaneously, including planning, execution, monitoring, control, and closure, ensuring adherence to scope, budget, and schedule.
- Develop and implement project strategies, methodologies, and best practices tailored for the Latin American market.
- Lead and mentor cross-functional project teams, including engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning, ensuring effective collaboration and performance.
- Manage client relationships and expectations, serving as the primary point of contact for project communications and issue resolution.
- Identify and mitigate project risks and issues proactively, developing contingency plans and implementing corrective actions.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant safety, quality, environmental, and regulatory standards.
- Prepare and present regular project status reports, financial forecasts, and performance metrics to senior management and stakeholders.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance project delivery efficiency and effectiveness.
- Negotiate contracts with vendors, suppliers, and subcontractors, ensuring favorable terms and conditions.
- Travel extensively within Latin America to project sites and client meetings as required.

- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field. Master's degree or MBA preferred.
- Minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in program or project management, with a significant portion dedicated to large-scale, complex turnkey projects, ideally within industrial, infrastructure, or energy sectors.
- Proven track record of successfully delivering projects in Latin America, demonstrating an understanding of regional business practices, cultural nuances, and regulatory environments.
- Fluent in English and Spanish (written and spoken) is required; Portuguese is a strong asset.
- PMP certification or equivalent project management certification is highly desirable.
- Proficiency in project management software and tools (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6).
* Willingness and ability to travel frequently across Latin America.