Director of Railroad Relations and Operations RRA

The Director of Railroad Relations and Operations is responsible for overseeing the operational and strategic relationship between the company and railroad partners and our running repair agents. This role involves managing day-to-day operations for to running repair agents at multiple locations, ensuring compliance with industry regulations, improving efficiency, and fostering strong partnerships with railroad companies. The Director will also lead efforts to ensure that service levels meet company and customer expectations.

Key Responsibilities

1. Relationship Management:

• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key railroad partners.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all railroad-related inquiries, and conflicts.

• Act as a liaison between the company and railroad stakeholders, including government agencies, regulatory bodies, and industry associations.

2. Regulatory Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations related to rail transportation, including safety, environmental, and operational standards (e.g., FRA, AAR).

• Stay updated on industry regulations, trends, and best practices to maintain compliance and mitigate potential risks.

• Oversee the company’s adherence to safety standards, conducting regular audits and safety inspections

3. Operational Efficiency and Process Improvement:

• Continuously evaluate the efficiency of operations and identify areas for improvement.

• Implement process improvements, technology solutions, and best practices

• Analyze operational data to identify trends, bottlenecks, and areas for optimization.

4. Budget and Resource Management:

• Develop and manage budgets for railroad operations, ensuring cost-effective solutions and alignment with overall financial goals.

• Oversee the allocation of resources for running repair agents, including equipment, personnel, and infrastructure.

5. Customer Service and Problem Resolution:

• Work with internal teams to address customer requirements, ensuring that repairs are aligned with customer expectations and needs.

7. Strategic Planning and Growth:

• Contribute to the development of long-term strategies for the company’s running repair agents operations, identifying opportunities for expansion, growth, and increased market share.

• Collaborate with senior management to align running repair agents operations with overall business goals and objectives.

• Monitor market trends and competitor activities to identify new opportunities for optimization or partnerships.

8. Team Leadership and Development:

• Lead and develop a team of running repair agent professionals, ensuring they are adequately trained and equipped to handle operational challenges.

• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement within the team.

• Provide mentoring and guidance to junior staff and ensure the ongoing development of the team’s skills.

9. Reporting and Communication:

• Prepare and present regular reports to senior management on running repair agent operations, performance metrics, cost analysis, and strategic initiatives.

• Communicate operational updates, challenges, and successes to internal stakeholders, ensuring alignment and transparency.

Required Qualifications:

• Experience: Minimum of 8-10years of experience in the railcar repair industry and 6 years management experience with a strong knowledge of quality assurance, and safety management. (OSHA,AAR,FRA)

• Skills:

• Strong knowledge of regulatory standards (e.g., OSHA, AAR,FRA).

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Analytical skills with the ability to identify issues and implement solutions.

• Strong leadership and team building/ management abilities.

•Proven experience in operations management or a similar role.

• Strong leadership and organizational skills.

• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

Not required but preferred qualifications:

•  Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field (Master’s preferred).

·       Lean six sigma Experience 

Working Conditions:

• Full-time position, with travel required to visit running repair agent sites. 

• May require flexibility in working hours to manage cross-timezone communications or time-sensitive operational issues.

This job description outlines the key responsibilities and qualifications for a Director of Railroad Relations and Operations RRA, emphasizing leadership, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of the railcar repair industry.