Vice President & General Manager, Bus Product Line

Wabtec•Buffalo Grove, IL

2d•$199,100 - $283,600

About The Position

The leader of the Bus Product Line will embark on shaping the strategic vision for the product line, aligning it with broader company objectives while spearheading innovation and the optimization of the product portfolio to adeptly respond to market demands. Assuming full responsibility for the Product Line’s P&L, focusing on operating margin and EBIT for allocated sites. Directing the planning, execution, and accountability measures for the Product Line’s strategic, tactical, and annual planning (STRAP) and budget, focusing on critical areas such as order intake, sales, delivery, profitability, and cash flow. Directing product strategy from conceptualization to market launch, encompassing product management, design, and development to ensure market competitiveness. Managing the IMS, which includes the Quality Management System, Quality Assurance, and Environmental, EHS standards, upholding product integrity and compliance. Leading the advancement of operations footprints toward smart, lean, and environmentally sustainable manufacturing practices. Overseeing the management and development of talent within the Product Line, prioritizing the growth of high-potential individuals and efficient resource allocation.

Requirements

Relevant bachelor's or master's degree preferably in Engineering or Economics.
10-15 years of professional background in general management, site management, having led a product line with P&L responsibility
Experience in a leadership roles in industrial environments, with products development and strong involvement in commercial and business development
Capability in guiding global teams to success, performance oriented
Strategic thinker, a business developer capable of designing and building opportunities of growth
Leadership in areas encompassing operations, engineering, procurement, financial forecasting, and strategic business planning.
Fluent in English
Capability to inspire team members by offering clear guidance and mentorship, cultivating a culture dedicated to defining, attaining, and fulfilling business objectives.
Exhibiting advanced interpersonal and supervisory competencies, including emotional intelligence, effective feedback delivery, assessment of team performance, and the encouragement of staff towards meeting or exceeding performance goals.
Agility in resolving conflicts, adeptness in negotiation, and proficiency in managing customer relationships.
Proficient in structuring and orchestrating tasks and workflows, with a strong aptitude for independently overseeing multiple initiatives and adhering to deadlines.
Possessing analytical prowess, sound judgment, and the ability to execute intricate business choices through thoughtful strategic planning.

Responsibilities

Building and propelling the strategic plan and annual financial budget for the Product Line.
Validating the Sales and Orders forecasts for the Product Line and ensuring the Sales, Inventory, and Operations Planning is aligned with operational capabilities across sites and regions.
Fostering the development of competitive products that incorporate customer service and aftermarket considerations within the Product Management process, and approving product and R&D plans.
Initiating and driving OE solution development, business development, and tendering processes, while expanding aftermarket sales.
Challenging and guiding Operations to refine Product Line development costs and TMC.
Coordinating the functional areas within the Product Line - Sales, Engineering, Sourcing, Quality Assurance, Product Management, and Local Sourcing - to align with the Transit segment’s overarching strategy and processes.
Acting as a primary escalation point for Product Line customers, cultivating close relationships, and forging strategic partnerships, including with external Partners.
Assuming accountability for the Product Line's P&L outcomes, focusing on Operating Margin and EBIT for allocated sites, as well as overseeing operational performance. This includes making decisions on Make or Buy, Time of Payment/Time of Transfer, and localization strategies in collaboration with Operations and assigned Operating Units (if applicable).