VP Gov & Industry Affairs

GATX is an industry leader in railcar leasing with 120+ years of success—success powered by our people. We hire the best and offer our employees a dynamic, energetic, collaborative environment to enable them to make an impact from day one. Here, you will enjoy the perks and benefits of a global company but the close-knit culture and community of a much smaller one.

We have a rare opportunity for a knowledgeable rail professional to lead the government and industry affairs function for GATX. In this role, you will lead GATX’s advocacy efforts with legislators, regulators, and industry associations to advance the GATX’s business objectives. You will report directly to the President of GATX’s Rail North America division.

This role, which has a high level of interaction a variety of rail industry stakeholders and with government entities, will have these key responsibilities:

• Develop annual Advocacy Plan for Rail North America. Lead key initiatives, adjust strategies/tactics as necessary and report on progress at least quarterly. This includes developing and maintaining relationships with federal legislators and with regulators such as the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), and the Surface Transportation Board (STB) in the United States, as well as with Transport Canada. Manage the GATX Washington DC external advisor.
• Provide leadership to the Railway Supply Institute (RSI) Committee on Tank Car activities. Actively participate in developing strategies and monitoring progress on critical initiatives. Lead task force activities when appropriate.
• Provide leadership to RSI Equipment Leasing Committee activities. Actively participate in developing strategies and monitoring progress on critical initiatives. Lead task force activities when appropriate.
• Lead GATX activities related to the American Association of Railroads (AAR). Develop and implement actions to have GATX employees selected to serve on key committees. Facilitate information sharing among GATX committee representatives to ensure alignment on key issues. Evaluate effectiveness of the Associates program and lobby AAR for changes to improve the program.

• 15+ years of experience in the rail industry, preferably with leadership experience
• Experience in railcar leasing/manufacturing/maintenance a plus
• Bachelor’s degree required
• Understanding of regulatory and legislative processes a plus
• Experience working with the AAR is a plus
• The role will be located in Chicago, IL, or Washington, D.C.

GATX embraces diversity, and we are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.