Regional Vice President: Sub-Saharan Africa

Wabtec is a leading global provider of equipment, systems, digital solutions, and value-added services for the freight and transit rail sectors. Drawing on more than 150 years of experience, we are leading the way in safety, efficiency, reliability, innovation, and productivity. Whether it’s freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise, technologies, and people together – are accelerating the future of transportation. With roots that date back to George Westinghouse, Thomas Edison, and Louis Faiveley, Wabtec has always built technologies and implemented solutions for a variety of sectors that are critical to meeting the needs of customers and governments alike.

Our global team of about 30,000 employees worldwide delivers performance that moves the world forward. We’re lifelong learners, obsessed with better. Learn more at www.WabtecCorp.com.

**This role must be based in South Africa**

Lead Transformation. Drive Growth. Shape the Future of Mobility.

 

Who will you be working with? P&L leaders and Functional leaders

Reports to: Regional Senior Vice President, Operations for CIS, Middle East and Africa

Why This Role?

This is not just another leadership position—it’s a chance to define the future of transportation in one of the world’s fastest-growing regions. As VP Regional Leader for SSA, you will lead and execute a strategy that impacts economies, communities, and industries. You’ll have the autonomy to influence policy and build partnerships that unlock sustainable growth.

What Makes This Opportunity Unique?

• Industry Impact: Rail and transportation are at the heart of economic development. Your leadership will accelerate modernization and connectivity across SSA.
• Global Platform: Wabtec is a global leader in freight and transit solutions, operating in over 50 countries. You’ll leverage this scale while shaping a region-specific strategy.
• Executive Influence: Engage directly with governments, industry leaders, and key stakeholders to drive policy and investment decisions.
• Innovation & Sustainability: Lead initiatives that bring cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices to emerging markets.

What will your typical day look like?

Mission & Responsibilities

• Set the Vision: Define and execute a regional strategy that drives growth and operational excellence.
• Lead with Impact: Inspire and develop a diverse, cross-functional team to deliver results.
• Drive a consistency: “One Wabtec” approach to driving commercial growth, operational efficiencies approach including engagement with governments, customers, and employees. 
• Build Strategic Alliances: Forge partnerships with governments, customers, and industry stakeholders to expand market presence.
• Accelerate Innovation: Elevate the customer voice and bring new ideas to market faster.
• Grow Talent: Work cross-functionally to develop regional talent and succession plans
• Drive Performance: Partner with P&L’s and functions to leverage Wabtec’s resources and scale to improve how we operate, achieve profitable growth and ensure compliance and operational rigor.
• Deliver Key Metrics:
• Ensure execution of financial business metrics: Cash, EBIT, and Orders.
• Ensure and implement a growth plan including CAPEX. Define and approve key projects to support growth in the region.
• Execute and expand localization efforts across various business segments.

Why Join Us?

• Impact at Scale: Your decisions will shape the future of mobility in SSA and influence global transportation trends.
• Inclusive Culture: We value diversity, equity, and inclusion—and believe great ideas come from everywhere.
• Career Growth: This role offers visibility and influence across a global organization.
• Purpose-Driven Work: Help create safer, greener, and more connected communities.

 

 

What do we want to know about you?

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited institution
• 10+ years of global leadership experience managing cross-functional teams
• 12 to 15+ years in commercial, product management, program management, or finance
• Proven ability to deliver results in complex, matrixed environments

Desired Qualifications

• Track record of setting and executing strategic priorities at scale
• Strong ability to build partnerships and influence senior stakeholders
• Expertise in global commercial operations and financial management
• Exceptional communication and executive presence
• Strategic thinker with courage to innovate and lead change
• Inclusive leader who inspires, motivates, and develops diverse teams

What could you accomplish in a place that puts People First?

At Wabtec, it’s not just about a job - it’s about the impact you make. When our people come together, we’re Expanding the Possible by continuously improving what we do and how we do it - for our clients and each other.

If you’re ready to revolutionize how the world moves for future generations, Wabtec is the place for you.

 

Who are we?

Wabtec is a leading global provider of equipment, systems, digital solutions, and value-added services for the freight and transit rail sectors. Drawing on more than 150 years of experience, we are leading the way in safety, efficiency, reliability, innovation, and productivity. Whether it’s freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise, technologies, and people together – are accelerating the future of transportation. With roots that date back to George Westinghouse, Thomas Edison, and Louis Faiveley, Wabtec has always built technologies and implemented solutions for a variety of sectors that are critical to meeting the needs of customers and governments alike.

Our global team of about 30,000 employees worldwide delivers performance that moves the world forward. We’re lifelong learners, obsessed with better. Learn more at www.WabtecCorp.com.

Culture powers us and the possibilities.

We believe the best ideas come from a mix of experiences and backgrounds. At Wabtec, we strive every day to create a place where everyone belongs. We’re building a culture where leadership, inclusion and your unique perspective fuel progress.

We’re proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome talent of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities, including race, gender, age, disability, veteran status and more.

Need accommodation? Just let us know - we’ve got you.