Network Design Manager - Finish Vehicle Logistics

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Network Design Manager - Finished Vehicle Logistics

Company: Stellantis

Location: Auburn Hills, Michigan, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Supply Chain & Logistics Operations

Date Posted: 2026-04-17

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design and continuous optimization of a complex, end-to-end finished vehicle logistics network, ensuring scalability and cost-efficiency.

• Drive strategic initiatives through advanced network modeling, scenario analysis, and data-driven insights to support new product introductions and market dynamics.

• Implement and monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) across transportation, warehousing, and distribution to achieve service level targets and minimize damage rates.

• Foster strong cross-functional collaboration with Manufacturing, Sales, Procurement, and external logistics partners (3PLs, carriers) to align network strategies with business objectives.

• Develop and manage risk mitigation strategies and ensure strict compliance with trade regulations and OEM standards within the logistics network.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is classified under Supply Chain & Logistics Operations, focusing on the strategic design and execution of a physical goods distribution network for a major automotive manufacturer. The emphasis on "Finished Vehicle Logistics" indicates a specialized area within supply chain, requiring expertise in managing the final leg of product delivery to customers or dealerships. The "Network Design Manager" title implies a leadership position with responsibility for strategic planning and team management.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain sophisticated network models for finished vehicle distribution, encompassing plant-to-port, port-to-yard, and yard-to-dealer flows.

• Conduct comprehensive scenario planning and simulation to assess the impact of market shifts, new product launches, and operational changes on the logistics network.

• Design and implement multimodal transportation strategies, effectively integrating road, rail, and sea freight to optimize cost, speed, and reliability.

• Evaluate and recommend optimal locations for distribution hubs, yards, and ports, considering factors such as proximity to manufacturing, market demand, and infrastructure availability.

• Analyze transportation spend, lead times, and service performance metrics to identify opportunities for cost reduction through route optimization, load consolidation, and modal shifts.

• Monitor critical KPIs including delivery lead time, damage rates, dwell time, and yard utilization, implementing corrective actions to address deviations.

• Leverage advanced optimization tools and software (e.g., Llamasoft, SAP TM, OTM) for network analysis, demand forecasting, and capacity planning.

• Construct robust business cases and ROI analyses to justify proposed network enhancements and strategic investments.

• Collaborate closely with Manufacturing, Sales, Procurement, and Regional Logistics teams to ensure seamless integration of the logistics network with broader business operations.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with third-party logistics providers (3PLs), ocean carriers, rail operators, and trucking companies, providing data-driven support for contract negotiations.

• Proactively identify and assess risks within the logistics network, including capacity constraints, geopolitical factors, and port congestion, developing contingency and resilience plans.

• Ensure strict adherence to trade regulations, safety standards, and specific Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) requirements across all logistics operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic planning, analytical rigor, and operational execution. Specific mention of "multimodal transportation" and "plant → port → yard → dealer" flows indicates a deep dive into the complexities of automotive logistics. The requirement to build "business cases and ROI analyses" points to a need for strong financial acumen and the ability to justify strategic investments in network design.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in logistics network design, supply chain planning, or a related operations management role.

• Demonstrated experience in managing complex distribution networks, preferably within the automotive or manufacturing sector.

• Proven track record of successfully identifying and implementing cost-saving initiatives within logistics operations.

Required Skills:

• Network Design & Optimization: Expertise in designing, modeling, and optimizing complex logistics networks, including route and mode selection.

• Supply Chain Management: Deep understanding of end-to-end supply chain principles, particularly in finished goods distribution.

• Data Analysis & Modeling: Advanced proficiency in quantitative analysis, statistical modeling, and the ability to translate complex data into actionable insights.

• Excel Modeling: Strong, demonstrated expertise in advanced Excel functions, pivot tables, and financial modeling for complex logistics scenarios.

• Transportation Management: In-depth knowledge of multimodal transportation (road, rail, sea) and carrier management.

• Cost Management: Ability to analyze transportation costs, identify savings opportunities, and manage budgets effectively.

• Problem-Solving: Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach to decision-making.

• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly to diverse stakeholders.

• Change Leadership: Proven ability to lead and manage change initiatives within an operational environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Network Design Software: Hands-on experience with specialized network design and optimization software such as Llamasoft (now Coupa), SAP TM, OTM (Oracle Transportation Management), or similar tools.

• Business Intelligence Tools: Proficiency with data visualization and business intelligence platforms like Power BI, Tableau, or similar for reporting and dashboard creation.

• Demand Forecasting & Capacity Planning: Experience in developing accurate demand forecasts and associated capacity plans for logistics operations.

• Risk Management: Familiarity with risk assessment methodologies and the development of contingency plans for supply chain disruptions.

• Contract Negotiation: Experience supporting or participating in contract negotiations with logistics service providers.

• Automotive Logistics: Specific experience within the finished vehicle logistics or automotive supply chain sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "8+ years of network design experience" combined with a Bachelor's degree suggests a mid-to-senior level role. The emphasis on specific software like Llamasoft, SAP TM, and OTM, alongside Excel and Power BI, indicates a technically oriented operations role that requires proficiency in specialized logistics planning tools. The "change leadership attributes" points to the need for someone who can drive strategic shifts in how the company manages its vehicle distribution.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Network Optimization Case Studies: Showcase detailed examples of past projects where you designed, optimized, or redesigned logistics networks. Highlight the initial state, the methodology used, the specific tools applied, and the quantified improvements achieved (e.g., cost savings, lead time reduction, service level enhancement).

• Data Analysis & Modeling Examples: Provide evidence of your ability to build complex analytical models, particularly in Excel, to support network decisions. This could include models for cost-benefit analysis, scenario planning, or capacity forecasting.

• Process Improvement Documentation: Include documentation or examples of processes you have developed or improved within logistics operations, demonstrating your understanding of workflow design and efficiency gains.

• ROI Demonstration: For any proposed or implemented network changes, clearly articulate the Return on Investment (ROI) and the key financial metrics that were used for evaluation and justification.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate your ability to map existing logistics workflows, identify bottlenecks, and propose optimized processes that enhance efficiency and reduce costs.

• System Implementation Standards: If applicable, showcase experience in implementing or integrating new logistics software or systems, detailing the implementation approach and post-implementation performance.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Provide examples of how you have established performance measurement frameworks, defined KPIs, and conducted regular analysis to track network performance against strategic goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Network Design Manager role, a portfolio showcasing quantitative results and strategic thinking is crucial. Candidates should prepare to present case studies that clearly articulate the problem, their analytical approach, the solutions implemented, and the measurable impact on cost, service, or efficiency. Demonstrating proficiency with specific network modeling tools is also a key expectation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Given the location (Auburn Hills, Michigan), experience level (8+ years), and the specialized nature of automotive logistics network design for a major OEM like Stellantis, the estimated salary range for a Network Design Manager is competitive. Based on industry benchmarks and regional data for similar roles in the automotive and logistics sectors, a typical range would be $110,000 - $150,000 per year.

📝 Enhancement Note: This salary estimate is derived from research on similar Network Design Manager or Senior Logistics Analyst roles within the automotive industry in the Detroit metropolitan area. Factors considered include the high demand for specialized supply chain skills, the complexity of finished vehicle logistics, and the leadership responsibilities associated with managing a team and strategic network design. Stellantis's global presence and the critical nature of this function would support compensation at the higher end of the range for highly qualified candidates.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and eligible dependents.

• Retirement Savings Plan: 401(k) plan with company matching contributions, offering a strong pathway to retirement security.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays to promote work-life balance.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Employer-provided life insurance and short-term/long-term disability coverage.

• Employee Vehicle Programs: Potential for employee discounts on Stellantis vehicles and related services.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and continued education in supply chain and logistics management.

• Performance Bonuses: Potential for annual performance-based bonuses tied to individual and company achievements.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week.

• While the role is primarily on-site, occasional flexibility may be required to accommodate project deadlines, critical network issues, or collaboration with global teams across different time zones.

📝 Enhancement Note: Benefits for employees at large automotive OEMs like Stellantis are generally robust, aiming to attract and retain top talent in specialized fields like logistics and network design. The inclusion of vehicle programs is a significant perk specific to the automotive industry.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Automotive Manufacturing

Company Size: Large Enterprise (over 10,000 employees)

Founded: Stellantis was formed in 2021 through the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) and PSA Group. The legacy companies have a long history in automotive innovation.

Team Structure:

• The Network Design team likely operates within the broader Global Supply Chain or Vehicle Logistics division of Stellantis.

• It is expected to be a team of analysts and designers, reporting to a Director or Senior Manager of Logistics Network Strategy.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using quantitative analysis, network modeling tools, and performance metrics to guide strategic and operational decisions.

• Continuous Improvement: A culture that promotes ongoing evaluation and optimization of the logistics network to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service levels.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Strong focus on ensuring that logistics network strategies are aligned with and support the objectives of other business functions.

• Global Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with diverse teams across different geographic regions and business units.

Company Website: https://www.stellantis.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: As a major global automotive manufacturer, Stellantis operates within a highly competitive and dynamic industry. This necessitates a focus on efficiency, cost control, and innovation within its supply chain. The company culture likely values data-driven insights, operational excellence, and strong cross-functional teamwork to manage the complexities of vehicle production and distribution.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a management-level position, overseeing a specialized function within the broader logistics operations. It carries significant responsibility for strategic planning, team leadership, and impacting the company's bottom line through efficient network design.

Reporting Structure: The Network Design Manager will likely report to a Director or Senior Manager of Global Logistics or Supply Chain Strategy. They will manage a team of network analysts and designers.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct and substantial impact on Stellantis's profitability and customer satisfaction. Effective network design leads to reduced transportation and warehousing costs, faster delivery times, lower damage rates, and improved inventory management. This directly influences the cost of goods sold and the overall competitiveness of Stellantis's vehicles in the market.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Senior Management: Potential to move into roles such as Director of Logistics Network Strategy, Head of Vehicle Logistics, or broader Supply Chain Director positions.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of logistics, such as international freight management, cold chain logistics (if applicable to certain components or services), or advanced supply chain analytics.

• Cross-Functional Moves: Opportunities to transition into related roles within Manufacturing Operations, Global Procurement, or Sales Operations, leveraging a strong understanding of the end-to-end value chain.

• Leadership Development: Access to internal leadership training programs and opportunities to mentor junior team members, building a strong foundation for future leadership roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within a large, established organization like Stellantis. Success in managing complex logistics networks and driving efficiency can lead to significant leadership opportunities within the company's global supply chain operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, indicating a traditional office-based work environment within Stellantis's Auburn Hills campus.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is 1000 Chrysler Drive, Auburn Hills, Michigan. This is a major corporate campus for Stellantis, likely offering extensive facilities and resources.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office is expected to foster collaboration, with opportunities for regular interaction with team members, cross-functional partners, and management.

• Technology & Tools: Access to state-of-the-art logistics software, analytical tools, and IT infrastructure necessary for network modeling and data analysis.

• Professional Setting: A corporate office environment that supports focused work, team meetings, and presentations.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, typically Monday through Friday.

• While core hours are expected, flexibility may be necessary to accommodate global team interactions or urgent operational demands, especially given Stellantis's international presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: An on-site role at a major automotive OEM's headquarters often provides a stable and resource-rich work environment. The Auburn Hills location suggests a hub for engineering, design, and corporate functions, offering ample opportunities for professional development and networking within the industry.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter conducts a preliminary review of your resume and qualifications, assessing basic requirements and fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the hiring manager focusing on your experience in network design, logistics optimization, team leadership, and strategic thinking. Expect behavioral questions and scenario-based inquiries.

• Technical/Analytical Assessment: This may involve a case study, a presentation of a past project from your portfolio, or a technical exercise to assess your skills in data analysis, modeling (e.g., Excel), and use of logistics software.

• Cross-Functional Interview(s): Interviews with key stakeholders from departments you would collaborate with (e.g., Manufacturing, Sales, Procurement) to gauge your ability to work cross-functionally and understand business needs.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader (e.g., Director of Logistics) to assess overall fit, strategic vision, and leadership potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Everything: For each project in your portfolio, clearly state the problem, your solution, and the measurable results using hard numbers (e.g., "Reduced transportation costs by 15%", "Decreased average delivery lead time by 2 days", "Improved yard utilization by 10%").

• Highlight Tool Proficiency: Be prepared to discuss your experience with specific tools mentioned in the job description (Llamasoft, SAP TM, OTM, Power BI, advanced Excel). Showcase how you've used these tools to drive insights and solutions.

• Structure Your Cases: Use a clear structure for your case studies: Situation/Problem, Task, Action (your approach, methodology, tools used), and Result (quantified outcomes).

• Tailor to Stellantis: If possible, research Stellantis's current logistics challenges or stated goals and subtly align your portfolio examples to demonstrate how your skills can address those specific needs.

Challenge Preparation:

• Network Modeling Exercise: Be ready for a scenario where you might need to analyze a sample dataset and propose network adjustments, or discuss your approach to modeling a specific logistics challenge.

• Excel Proficiency Test: Expect questions or tasks that test your advanced Excel skills, such as building a functional model or performing complex data manipulations.

• Strategic Thinking: Prepare to discuss your approach to developing a logistics network strategy, considering factors like cost, service, risk, and sustainability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is structured to assess technical skills, strategic thinking, leadership potential, and cross-functional collaboration. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly demonstrates quantifiable achievements and tool proficiency will be critical for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Network Design Software: Llamasoft (now Coupa), SAP TM (Transportation Management), OTM (Oracle Transportation Management) - Experience with at least one of these is highly preferred.

• Spreadsheet Software: Microsoft Excel (advanced proficiency required for modeling, data analysis, and scenario planning).

• Data Visualization & BI Tools: Power BI, Tableau, or similar platforms for creating dashboards, analyzing trends, and presenting performance data.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Statistical Analysis Tools: Potentially R, Python (for data scientists), or advanced Excel functions for statistical analysis of logistics data.

• Database Querying: SQL knowledge may be beneficial for extracting data from various systems.

• Reporting Suites: Internal Stellantis reporting systems and BI dashboards for tracking KPIs.

CRM & Automation:

• ERP Systems: Experience with enterprise resource planning systems (e.g., SAP) that integrate with logistics modules.

• Workflow Automation Tools: While not explicitly mentioned, familiarity with process automation concepts or tools could be advantageous for identifying efficiency improvements.

• Integration Platforms: Understanding how different logistics and enterprise systems connect (e.g., EDI, APIs) can be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with specialized network design software and advanced Excel is paramount. The ability to leverage data visualization tools like Power BI is also a key requirement for presenting insights to stakeholders. Knowledge of broader ERP systems that interface with logistics is also valuable.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Data-Driven Excellence: A strong emphasis on leveraging data, analytics, and modeling to inform all strategic and operational decisions within the logistics network.

• Efficiency & Cost Consciousness: A core value focused on continuously seeking ways to optimize processes, reduce waste, and drive down costs without compromising service quality.

• Collaboration & Partnership: A commitment to working closely and effectively with internal departments and external logistics partners to achieve shared goals.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: An environment that encourages the exploration of new technologies, methodologies, and strategies to enhance the logistics network.

• Accountability & Results: A focus on delivering measurable results, meeting performance targets, and taking ownership of outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive Engagement: Regularly engaging with stakeholders across different departments to understand their needs and ensure logistics strategies are aligned.

• Data-Informed Dialogue: Using data and analytical insights as the foundation for discussions and decision-making with internal and external partners.

• Constructive Feedback: A culture that encourages open and honest feedback exchange, fostering continuous improvement of processes and team performance.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and expertise across the team and with other departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: Stellantis likely fosters a culture of operational excellence and data-driven decision-making, common in large automotive manufacturers. The emphasis on collaboration is key, given the complexity of global vehicle logistics and the need to coordinate with numerous internal and external entities.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Global Network Complexity: Managing a vast, international logistics network with diverse regulations, infrastructure, and market conditions presents significant challenges in terms of coordination and optimization.

• Supply Chain Volatility: The automotive industry is susceptible to disruptions from geopolitical events, economic fluctuations, and unforeseen circumstances (e.g., pandemics, natural disasters), requiring robust risk management and agility.

• Cost Pressures: Continuous pressure to reduce logistics costs while maintaining or improving service levels requires innovative solutions and rigorous optimization.

• Technology Adoption: Keeping pace with evolving logistics technologies and integrating them effectively into existing systems can be a challenge.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Ensuring alignment and buy-in from various departments with potentially competing priorities requires strong communication and negotiation skills.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Logistics Modeling: Opportunities to deepen expertise in sophisticated network design and simulation software, potentially leading to specialized analytics roles.

• Supply Chain Strategy: Exposure to broader strategic planning initiatives within Stellantis's global supply chain, offering a pathway to higher-level strategy roles.

• Leadership Training: Access to Stellantis's internal leadership development programs, focusing on management skills, strategic execution, and talent development.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Support for attending industry events and pursuing relevant certifications (e.g., APICS CSCP, CLTD) to enhance professional knowledge and network.

• Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by senior leaders within the organization or to mentor junior analysts, fostering leadership growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers significant challenges inherent to managing a global automotive supply chain, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and skill development in areas like risk management, advanced analytics, and strategic leadership.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you redesigned a complex logistics network. What was your process, what tools did you use, and what were the key outcomes?" (Focus on your methodology, data analysis, and quantifiable results.)

• "How would you approach optimizing multimodal transportation routes for finished vehicles across North America and Europe?" (Demonstrate your understanding of route planning, cost factors, and trade-offs.)

• "Imagine a significant port strike is imminent. What steps would you take to mitigate its impact on our finished vehicle distribution network?" (Assess your risk management and contingency planning abilities.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Stellantis's current logistics operations or challenges?" (Research recent news, annual reports, or supply chain initiatives.)

• "How do you foster collaboration between logistics and other departments like manufacturing or sales?" (Provide examples of successful cross-functional partnerships.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select High-Impact Cases: Choose 2-3 portfolio examples that best showcase your network design, optimization, and problem-solving capabilities, ideally with strong, quantifiable results.

• Tell a Story: Structure your presentation around a clear narrative: the business problem, your analytical approach, the solution implemented, and the tangible benefits achieved.

• Focus on Metrics: Be prepared to discuss the specific KPIs you used, how you measured success, and the ROI of your initiatives.

• Demonstrate Tool Usage: If presenting a modeling exercise, be ready to briefly show how you used specific software or Excel to arrive at your conclusions.

• Anticipate Questions: Be ready to answer detailed questions about your methodology, assumptions, and the challenges you faced.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to demonstrate both technical proficiency with logistics modeling tools and strategic thinking. The ability to communicate complex analytical findings clearly and persuasively, backed by quantifiable results, will be a key differentiator.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Network Design Manager position:

• Navigate to the Stellantis careers portal via the provided URL and locate the job listing.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in logistics network design, supply chain optimization, data analysis, and any specific software mentioned (Llamasoft, SAP TM, OTM, Power BI, advanced Excel). Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that demonstrate your expertise in network design, optimization, and delivering quantifiable results. Ensure you can articulate the problem, your solution, and the impact (cost savings, efficiency gains).

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse presenting your portfolio case studies, focusing on clarity, conciseness, and highlighting measurable achievements. Be prepared for a technical assessment or case study.

• Research Stellantis: Familiarize yourself with Stellantis's global operations, its position in the automotive market, and any publicly available information on its supply chain strategy or challenges.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.