Lead Buyer Rail Assets - Logistics

Job description

Assets & Strategic Projects Team Within the European Procurement Organization (EPO) Land Logistics, the Assets & Strategic Projects Team negotiates long term contracts for the private wagon and locomotive fleet of ArcelorMittal. Our team is committed to excellence in every aspect of our operations. We believe in fostering a collaborative environment where every team member can contribute to our success. About the Role We are seeking a sharp, proactive, and strategic Lead Buyer/ Project Manager to manage procurement operations and supplier relationships across critical rail freight assets and industrial services — including wagon leasing, modular solutions, and steel logistics.

This role plays a key part in shaping the company’s transport and capital investment strategies to support sustainable growth and cost control in a complex European market. This position is based in Luxembourg.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Procurement & Sourcing Identifying Needs: Work closely with various departments to understand their requirements and forecast future needs.

Market Research

Conduct research to identify potential suppliers, evaluate their offerings, and compare them against organizational needs.

Supplier Relationship Management

Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to ensure a reliable supply chain. Develop and implement sourcing strategies for rolling stock and modular assets tailored to cyclical steel industry demands. Lead competitive tenders (RFI/RFP), negotiations, and supplier evaluations with a focus on total lifecycle cost. Drive contract structuring and renegotiations, ensuring flexibility, long-term value, and risk mitigation.

Negotiation

Negotiate contracts, pricing, and terms with suppliers to secure the best possible deals for the organization.

Cost reduction and fleet management strategy

• Develop the procurement strategy for your portfolio based on TCO method (Total Cost of Ownership)
• Monitor wagon contract, usage & cost date and coordinate with relevant teams to gather this data which will be used to ensure an optimal wagon fleet.

Supplier & Market Intelligence Build strong knowledge of wagon suppliers, lessors, and OEMs active in the European steel transport ecosystem. Track market offerings, regulatory compliance (UIC, TSI, EN), and supplier risk exposure. Benchmark supplier performance, cost drivers, and technical capabilities (including modular fleets and retrofit programs).

Quality, reporting & compliance Quality Assurance

Contribution to the Assets team inputs to the organization's quality standards and processes.

Reporting

Prepare regular reports on purchasing activity, cost savings, and supplier performance. Follow-up of the contracts (KPI, contract review, improvement...)

Compliance

Ensure all procurement activities comply with relevant regulations and organizational policies. Working Conditions The Buyer will work primarily in an office setting, with occasional visits to suppliers' facilities. The role may require travel to attend industry conferences, trade shows, and supplier/ site meetings.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Procurement, Engineering, Supply Chain, or Business. 8+ years' experience in strategic purchasing, transport procurement, or industrial asset sourcing. Deep knowledge of rail logistics, steel supply chains, and supplier contracting. Experience in negotiation, contract law basics, and safety compliance frameworks (UIC, TSI, NSA/ERA). Having an inclusive and collaborative team spirit Able to form good relationships with supplier and be able to manage key stakeholders.

Able to prepare strategy, to establish partnership with key accounts.

Skills

Strong analytical, interpersonal, and commercial decision-making skills. Excellent negotiation and communication skills. Self-driving and motivated Able to manage key stakeholders Strong analytical and decision-making abilities. Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

Languages

Fluent in English; other European languages (e.g., French, German) are a plus. Valid Driving license.

Nice to Have

Experience handling modular wagon systems, retrofits, or multimodal procurement. Exposure to litigation support or regulatory case management. Familiarity with European rail safety regulations and technical documentation (UIC Leaflets, EN standards).

What We Offer

Strategic ownership and impact in a highly visible procurement role. Cross-border exposure across leading European markets. Strong mentoring, development, and long-term career growth in transport and industrial procurement. PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CV IN ENGLISH