Procurement Manager - Railcar Equipment

See yourself at Odyssey.

Join the team as our new Procurement Manager – Railcar Equipment!

Who We Are & Why We’re Hiring

Odyssey Logistics & Technology Corporation (Odyssey) is a global logistics provider. Our adaptive approach to solving modern logistics challenges differentiates us in the markets we serve. Odyssey Logistics & Technology’s specialized multimodal expertise is the strategic foundation that provides clients with a full-service offering across our four operating divisions including intermodal, freight forwarding, transport & warehousing, and managed services.

Odyssey’s multimodal services offer cost-effective, end-to-end freight solutions equipped to deliver on evolving customer requirements.  Combined, Odyssey delivers innovative, high-value logistics services & technology solutions to support diverse customer requirements. In addition to being certified by the American Chemistry Council as a Responsible Care® partner company we consistently exceed customer expectations by integrating analytics, carrier relationships, specialized assets, sustainability strategies and deep international expertise. Our unique approach ensures that customer shipments keep moving at full speed, even in the face of ever-changing market headwinds.

Based in vibrant Charlotte, NC Odyssey is on a journey to constantly innovate logistics. We’re actively recruiting for this key, high profile role in the company because we have experienced tremendous growth and would love for you to join us!

Visit us at: www.OdysseyLogistics.com/careers

About the Job:

The position of Procurement Manager – Railcar Equipment will have primary responsibility for managing the procurement process of railcar equipment, ensuring that all purchases meet the required specifications and quality standards, and are cost effective. This role involves building detailed specifications, sizing the fleet according to operational needs, and maintaining strong commercial relationships with suppliers. The role will collaborate closely with various departments and external clients within the Chemical industry to ensure efficient and cost-effective sourcing of railcar equipment.

In This Role, You Will:

• Sourcing and Procurement:
  • Identify and source railcar equipment and materials from qualified suppliers.
  • Evaluate supplier performance based on quality, delivery, and cost metrics.
  • Develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to ensure reliable supply chains.
  • Manage the end-to-end procurement process, from requisition to issuing requests for proposals (RFPs) to contract award and equipment delivery.
• Negotiations:
  • Conduct negotiations with suppliers to secure the best terms, including pricing, delivery schedules, and payment terms.
  • Manage contracts and agreements with suppliers to ensure compliance and mitigate risks.

• Develop Specifications:
  • Collaborate with external engineering and operational teams to build detailed specifications for railcar equipment, including tank and covered hoppers
  • Ensure that all specifications meet industry standards, safety regulations, and operational requirements.
• Railcar Fleet Sizing:
  • Assess operational needs to determine the appropriate size and composition of the railcar equipment fleet.
  • Analyze usage data and project future needs to optimize fleet efficiency and effectiveness.

• Customer Relationship Management:
  • Maintain and nurture relationships with key customers to understand their needs and requirements.
  • Collaborate with customers to ensure the timely and accurate delivery of railcar equipment.
  • Address any customer concerns or issues related to procurement promptly and effectively.
  • Address and resolve technical issues related to equipment conditions or failures between clients and railcar vendors.
• Cost Analysis:
  • Perform cost analysis and market research to identify cost-saving opportunities.
  • Track and report on key metrics to measure the effectiveness of procurement activities.
  • Create railcar equipment fleet budgets and provide performance reports on them.

• Quality Assurance:
  • Ensure that all procured railcar equipment meets the required quality and performance standards.
  • Coordinate with railcar maintenance teams to conduct inspections and tests on received equipment
• Documentation and Reporting:
  • Maintain accurate records of procurement activities, contracts, and supplier performance.
  • Maintain specification and contract details of each piece of equipment.
  • Prepare regular reports on procurement metrics, fleet status, and cost savings.

• Compliance and Risk Management:
  • Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, industry standards, and company policies.
  • Stay informed about changes in laws and regulations affecting railcar equipment procurement.
  • Identify and mitigate potential risks in the supply chain.
• Continuous Improvement:
  • Implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
  • Stay updated with industry trends and advancements in rail equipment and procurement practices.
  • Establish and provide regular updates on agreed-upon KPIs.

• All other duties and projects as assigned.

Qualifications

We recognize not all applicants have every skill or qualification to match a job description exactly. Odyssey values diverse experiences in other industries, and we encourage everyone who meets most required qualifications to apply. While having “desired” qualifications make for a strong candidate, we encourage applicants with alternative experiences to also apply. We are always looking for people who will bring something new to the table!

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Logistics or other related degree is required.
• Minimum of ten (10) years of proven experience in procurement within the rail industry or a related sector.
• Strong understanding of railcar equipment specifications, standards, and regulatory knowledge is required.
• Knowledge of hazardous materials regulations, including the appropriate assignment of car types to specific materials and other related regulations is required.
• Knowledge of AAR requirements and rules is required.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and relationship management skills.
• Ability to analyze data and make informed decisions regarding fleet sizing and procurement strategies.
• Proficiency in procurement software and tools.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Suite and SAP, or similar industry systems, is required.
• Must be at least 18 years of age or older.

Location: This is an in-office role in Charlotte, NC

We offer a generous compensation and benefits package including:

• Choice of medical plans with FSA, HRA and HSA options
• Company-paid dental and life/disability Plans
• 401K with company match
• Preferred vendor discounts
• Competitive Paid Time Off

No relocation allowance will be considered unless specifically addressed. All applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.