Director of Strategy – Locomotive

Job Purpose

The Strategy Leader for the Locomotive Division of Progress Rail is responsible for shaping and driving the division’s strategic agenda in close collaboration with functional business leaders (Engineering, Operations, Commercial, Digital, and Services). This role combines vision-setting, analytical rigor, and cross-functional leadership to ensure alignment between enterprise priorities and divisional objectives. The Strategy Leader will lead strategic planning cycles, evaluate growth opportunities, and oversee transformation initiatives that deliver sustainable competitive advantage.

Reports to: EVP, Locomotive

Travel: :20–30% (corporate sites, customer engagements, industry forums)

Position may be located in Albertville, AL or La Grange, IL

Req ID

11513BR

Work Location Options

May also be located in La Grange, IL

City

Albertville

State:

Alabama

Company Description

Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation—driving the future of rail with a pioneering spirit. Since its founding in 1983, the company has grown to become one of the world’s largest and most trusted providers of railroad products, services, and technologies. Today, Progress Rail delivers a comprehensive portfolio of cost-effective solutions to railway customers around the globe. From the rails themselves to the EMD® locomotives that ride them, the company’s products are in operation across more than 100 countries—powering progress and connecting communities. In 2006, Progress Rail joined Caterpillar Inc., further strengthening its ability to lead the rail industry with cutting-edge technology, unmatched expertise, and a commitment to excellence. At Progress Rail, the team is not just building the future of rail—they are making history every day.

Key Job Elements

Strategic Planning & Vision

• Partner with functional leaders to define and communicate a clear strategic roadmap for the Locomotive Division;
• Lead annual and multi-year strategic planning processes, including growth playbook, market analysis, scenario modeling, and investment prioritization;
• Translate corporate strategy into actionable divisional objectives and KPIs;
  
  
  

Growth & Transformation Initiatives

• Identify and assess new market opportunities, partnerships, and technology trends (e.g., alternative propulsion, digital rail solutions);
• Drive execution of strategic initiatives, ensuring alignment with financial targets and operational capabilities;
• Monitor progress and adjust plans based on performance data and external dynamics;
  
  
  

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Facilitate alignment workshops with Engineering, Operations, Commercial, and Digital teams to ensure integrated execution;
• Serve as a liaison between the Locomotive Division and corporate teams for consistency and governance;
  
  
  

Executive Advisory & Communication

• Prepare executive-level presentations, board materials, and strategic updates;
• Provide insights on competitive positioning, risk management, and resource allocation;
  
  
  

Leadership & Culture

• Model enterprise leadership behaviors: create vision, lead change, and inspire trust;
• Build a culture of accountability and collaboration across strategy, finance, operations, and commercial teams;
• Mentor high-potential talent and develop future leaders.
  
  
  

Education / Training

• BS in Engineering or related field; MBA preferred.
  
  
  

Qualifications And Experience

Required:

• 10 years in strategy, corporate development, or business transformation roles;
• Proven experience in strategic planning, financial modeling, and executive communication;
• Strong business acumen with ability to synthesize complex data into actionable insights;
• Track record of leading cross-functional initiatives in a global or industrial context;
  
  
  

Preferred:

• Background in rail, heavy equipment, or industrial sectors.
• Familiarity with digital transformation and sustainability strategies.
  
  
  

Success Metrics

• Delivery of annual strategic plan and alignment across functional leaders.
• Execution of priority initiatives within scope, schedule, and ROI targets.
• Improved competitive positioning and market share growth.
• Positive engagement scores and talent development outcomes.
  
  
  

Essential and Physical Activities Functions:

• Strength – Position involves work in a standard office environment. Constant sitting. Rare standing, walking. Rare lifting;
• Motion – Position requires standard repetitive motions and hand/eye coordination associated with research and central office communications;
• Vision/Hearing Requirements – Constant communications, including both talking and hearing;
• Work Environment – Position will typically be located in an office environment;
• Emotional Demands – Ability to work with a team to accomplish the mission;
• Safety – Position is primarily limited to general office safety requirements.
  
  
  

Benefits

Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance, and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Progress Rail.**

• Competitive Salary
• 401(k) plan with up to 6% company match (no waiting period with immediate vesting)
• Medical/Dental/Vision/Life/Disability Insurance
• Supplemental Accident, Critical Care, and Hospital Insurance available along with an HDHP and HSA with seed money
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Paid Vacation
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Time-Off (PTO)
• Employee Assistance Plan
• Education Assistance Program
• Employee Recognition Programs
• Site specific Production and Incentive Plans
• Site specific Step and Skill Level Wage Adjustment Plans
• Site Specific Relocation and Sign-on Bonus Programs
• Benefits eligibility varies by job position, full-time/part-time and regular/temporary status. The provisions of the plan documents control such benefits.
• Subject to position, eligibility, and plan guidelines. EEO Progress Rail is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities.
  
  
  

Job Category

Executive

PRS Facility Location

Albertville, AL (PRSC Corp HQ) - 001

Summary Pay Range

$150,000 - $265,000