Outbound Rail Buyer

You will act as a critical liaison between internal stakeholders—specifically Material Planning & Logistics (MP&L)—and external suppliers to ensure that program requirements, capacity needs, and service levels are consistently met. In this role, you will drive value through strategic sourcing, complex contract negotiations, and proactive relationship management to optimize the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of our outbound finished vehicle network. 

• Serve as the lead commercial representative and subject matter expert for outbound rail procurement.
• Manage and update commodity strategies within the Commodity Strategy System to ensure alignment with long-term corporate objectives. 
• Develop and maintain comprehensive category business plans, ensuring synergy with related transportation commodities.
• Negotiate Transportation Service Agreements (TSAs), administer detailed Statements of Work (SOWs), and establish robust KPI metrics and supplier governance processes. 
• Manage the end-to-end Request for Proposal (RFP) process, including bid analysis, supplier selection, and contract execution.
• Communicate effectively with executive management through the creation and delivery of high-level strategic presentations and detailed operational reports. 
• Lead strategic initiatives, including Business Unit Reviews (BURs), to drive continuous improvement and supplier accountability. 
• Conduct thorough market analysis and benchmarking to demonstrate competitiveness and identify opportunities for cost savings or process optimization.
• Monitor industry and data analytical trends to inform sourcing decisions and advocate for system enhancements.
• Interpret and communicate data from various sources including Ford dashboards, supplier monthly metrics, freight payment system, and benchmarking systems. 
• Ensure Indirect Spend and Risk dashboard is up to date with accurate information from supplier
• Collaborate cross-functionally with MP&L and other internal teams to support daily operational requirements and long-term network planning.
• Identify and mitigate supply chain risks related to rail capacity, labor, and infrastructure.

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.

• 3+ years of experience in procurement, transportation, or logistics management. 

• Desire to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment
• Strong organizational, project management, and planning skills. 
• Ability to comprehend strategic direction and support consistent implementation
• Resourceful with excellent attention to detail, converting ambiguity into clarity
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Proficiency in business operations systems (SharePoint, MS365 Tools, & Dashboards)
• Strong leadership skills to interface with MP&L, and cross-functional teams. 

 

Preferred Qualifications

• MBA 
• Direct experience working with or for a Class I railroad or within a finished vehicle logistics network.