Planning Solution Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Planning Solution Design Manager

Company: Pfizer

Location: Collegeville, PA, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Supply Chain Operations / Technology Solutions

Date Posted: March 03, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid (2-3 days in office per week)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the architecture, configuration, and optimization of Kinaxis Supply Planning solutions to ensure alignment with business objectives and best practices in supply chain management.

• Design and standardize end-to-end supply network and production planning processes, leveraging Kinaxis capabilities for advanced demand-supply balancing, capacity planning, and scenario modeling.

• Develop and execute a strategic roadmap for simplifying existing architecture and application design, reinforcing operational execution of critical supply chain systems.

• Manage and mentor a team of technical professionals, providing guidance and leadership to ensure high-quality solution delivery and robust operational excellence.

• Drive cross-functional collaboration with supply chain, Digital, and business stakeholders to identify process gaps, develop integrated planning solutions, and promote the adoption of new technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a "Manager" level within the "Planning Solution Design" function, indicating a blend of technical solution architecture and team leadership responsibilities. The emphasis on "Kinaxis Supply Planning" and specific modules like "Maestro" points towards a highly specialized role within supply chain technology. The company's "digital and 'data first' strategy" suggests a strong focus on data-driven decision-making and integration of advanced technologies.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Architect, configure, and continuously optimize Kinaxis Supply Planning solutions, ensuring robust alignment with Pfizer's global business objectives and pharmaceutical supply chain best practices.

• Design and standardize end-to-end supply network and production planning processes, effectively utilizing Kinaxis functionalities for demand-supply balancing, capacity planning, and complex scenario modeling to mitigate risks and optimize outcomes.

• Develop and implement a strategic roadmap focused on simplifying the current architecture, application design, and integration points, thereby reinforcing the operational execution of supply chain systems and enhancing overall efficiency.

• Lead, manage, and mentor technical teams responsible for Kinaxis solution development and maintenance, providing clear guidance, technical training, and inspirational leadership to foster high-quality solution delivery and sustainable operational excellence.

• Oversee comprehensive project management activities for multiple concurrent initiatives, including meticulous planning, agile execution, proactive stakeholder engagement, and successful on-time, on-budget delivery of supply chain technology projects.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including Supply Chain, Digital, Manufacturing, and Commercial to proactively identify process gaps, conceptualize innovative solutions, and drive the successful adoption and utilization of integrated planning tools across the organization.

• Ensure the integrity of supply chain data, perform advanced analytics to derive actionable insights, and present findings to stakeholders using Kinaxis and related analytical platforms to inform strategic decision-making.

• Lead comprehensive change management and training initiatives to upskill relevant teams, foster a strong community of Kinaxis "super users," and ensure effective knowledge transfer and adoption of new planning methodologies.

• Stay abreast of the latest industry trends, Kinaxis product updates, and emerging supply chain technologies to continuously drive innovation, identify opportunities for improvement, and maintain Pfizer's competitive edge in supply chain planning.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strategic focus on both the technical design of Kinaxis solutions and the operational execution and adoption within a complex pharmaceutical supply chain. The mention of "simplifying existing architecture" and "reinforcing operational execution" suggests a need for process re-engineering and stabilization efforts.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Computer Science, or a closely related field.

Experience:

• Minimum of 4 years of experience specifically with Kinaxis Supply Planning application architecture.

• Proven expertise in end-to-end supply network and production planning processes within a complex operational environment.

• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing technical teams, including mentoring and talent development.

• Substantial experience in project management, with a preference for those holding formal certifications such as PMP.

• Experience with data integration techniques like ETL (Extract, Transform, Load), APIs (Application Programming Interfaces), and major ERP systems (e.g., SAP, JDE) is highly beneficial.

Required Skills:

• Deep expertise in Kinaxis Supply Planning solution architecture and configuration.

• Proficient in designing and optimizing end-to-end supply network and production planning processes.

• Strong technical team leadership and people management capabilities.

• Proven project management skills, with a track record of successful delivery.

• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management abilities.

• Robust problem-solving and analytical skills with a focus on data integrity.

• Understanding of change management principles and experience in driving user adoption.

Preferred Skills:

• Kinaxis certifications (Author, Contributor, Admin, Solution Architect).

• Relevant pharmaceutical industry experience, understanding its unique supply chain dynamics and regulatory environments.

• Experience with ERP systems such as SAP or JDE in conjunction with planning applications.

• Management consulting experience, particularly in supply chain transformation.

• Experience with Agile Software Delivery and/or Scrum Master Certification.

• Ability to mentor and guide colleagues, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

• Strong collaboration and team facilitation skills.

• Ability to analyze support trends and lead process improvement initiatives.

• Experience utilizing common AI tools, including generative technologies like ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot, for problem-solving and productivity enhancement, with an understanding of responsible AI practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The education requirements offer flexibility, emphasizing relevant experience alongside formal degrees. The distinction between "Minimum Requirements" and "Bonus Points" clearly outlines essential versus desirable qualifications. The inclusion of AI tools as a "Bonus Point" reflects a forward-thinking approach to technology adoption within the role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase detailed case studies of Kinaxis Supply Planning solution designs, highlighting architectural decisions and their impact on business objectives.

• Present examples of end-to-end process optimization projects, demonstrating improvements in demand-supply balancing, capacity utilization, or scenario modeling efficiency.

• Include documentation or descriptions of system integrations designed or managed, particularly those involving Kinaxis with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, JDE) or other planning tools.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate experience in designing and documenting complex supply chain planning workflows, including requirements gathering, solution mapping, and user acceptance testing (UAT) phases.

• Illustrate proficiency in creating process flow diagrams and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for Kinaxis-based planning processes, emphasizing clarity and actionable guidance.

• Show examples of how processes were measured, monitored, and improved post-implementation, including the use of KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) and performance analytics.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Solution Design Manager role, a portfolio should not just list projects but demonstrate a strategic approach to problem-solving, system design, and process improvement within the Kinaxis ecosystem. Emphasis should be placed on quantifiable business impact and leadership in process transformation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Bonus & Long-Term Incentives:

• Eligible for participation in Pfizer’s Global Performance Plan with a target bonus of 12.5% of base salary.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive and generous benefits programs designed to support healthy living and life's moments.

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with Pfizer Matching Contributions and an additional Pfizer Retirement Savings Contribution.

• Time Off: Paid vacation, holiday, and personal days.

• Leave: Paid caregiver/parental and medical leave.

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage.

Working Hours:

• Standard work hours are approximately 40 hours per week.

• Flexibility is required to support business needs during solution deployments, upgrades, or issue resolution, which may include non-standard office hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific to the US market and may vary based on the exact location of hire within the US. The bonus and long-term incentive structure indicates a performance-driven compensation model. The benefits package is extensive, reflecting Pfizer's commitment to employee well-being.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology. Pfizer is a global leader in healthcare, focusing on discovering, developing, manufacturing, and marketing innovative medicines and vaccines. This industry context implies a high degree of regulatory oversight, a focus on patient outcomes, and a commitment to scientific advancement.

Company Size: Large Enterprise (Pfizer is a global pharmaceutical giant with tens of thousands of employees worldwide). This scale means extensive resources, complex organizational structures, and a significant impact on global health.

Founded: 1849. With a long history, Pfizer has a deep-rooted legacy of innovation and adaptation in the healthcare sector.

Team Structure:

• The role likely sits within Pfizer's Information & Business Technology (IBT) division, specifically within a team focused on Supply Chain Technology or Digital Supply Chain.

• This team will likely collaborate closely with the Global Supply Chain organization, including planning, manufacturing, logistics, and procurement functions.

• The structure will involve reporting to a Director or Senior Manager of Supply Chain Solutions, with direct reports consisting of Kinaxis Solution Architects, Analysts, or Developers.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: A strong emphasis on leveraging data analytics to inform strategy, optimize processes, and measure performance across the supply chain.

• Agile and Hybrid Methodologies: The company embraces Agile Development practices, suggesting a flexibility in project execution and iterative development cycles, potentially blended with traditional project management for larger deployments.

• Process Excellence and Continuous Improvement: A culture that prioritizes the identification and implementation of process improvements, aiming for greater efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness in supply chain operations.

• Digital Transformation Focus: Actively pursuing digitalization and data-first strategies to enhance operational capabilities and drive innovation across all functions.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Pfizer's position as a major pharmaceutical company dictates a culture of rigor, compliance, and innovation. The "digital and 'data first' strategy" is a key driver for roles like this, emphasizing the integration of technology to solve complex business problems.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a Managerial level, indicating significant responsibility for solution design, technical leadership, and team management within the supply chain technology domain. It bridges the gap between hands-on technical expertise and strategic business alignment.

Reporting Structure: The Planning Solution Design Manager typically reports into a Director or VP within the Information & Business Technology (IBT) or Digital organization, with potential dotted-line reporting to senior leaders within the Global Supply Chain function. This dual reporting structure highlights the collaborative nature of the role.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct and substantial impact on the efficiency, responsiveness, and resilience of Pfizer's global supply chain. By optimizing planning solutions, this role influences inventory levels, production schedules, delivery times, and ultimately, the ability to get critical medicines to patients worldwide. Effective solution design directly contributes to cost savings, risk mitigation, and improved patient access.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in Kinaxis solutions, becoming a recognized subject matter expert (SME) for advanced modules or specific supply chain planning areas (e.g., network design, advanced analytics).

• Leadership Advancement: Progress into senior management roles, such as Director of Supply Chain Solutions, Head of Planning Technology, or a broader Digital Transformation leadership position.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Transition into strategic roles within the Global Supply Chain organization, leveraging a deep understanding of planning systems to drive broader supply chain strategy and transformation initiatives.

• Industry Expertise: Develop specialized knowledge in pharmaceutical supply chain planning, which is highly valued and transferable across the industry.

• Mentorship and Training: Take on a more prominent role in mentoring junior team members and developing internal training programs, enhancing leadership and knowledge-sharing skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth trajectory for this role is clearly defined, moving from a specialized technical manager to a broader strategic leader within supply chain technology or operations. The emphasis on direct impact on patient access provides a strong sense of purpose.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is designated as hybrid, requiring 2-3 days per week in a Pfizer office, with flexibility for additional presence as needed for deployments or issue resolution. This suggests a dynamic work environment that balances remote flexibility with in-person collaboration.

Office Location(s): Collegeville, Pennsylvania, USA. This location likely houses significant R&D, manufacturing, or corporate functions, providing a hub for collaboration with relevant business units and IT teams.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The office environment will likely feature collaborative workstations, meeting rooms equipped with advanced AV technology, and potentially dedicated project war rooms to facilitate team-based problem-solving and solution design sessions.

• Technology Access: Employees will have access to robust IT infrastructure, including high-speed networks, secure development environments, and a comprehensive suite of collaboration tools (e.g., Microsoft Teams, SharePoint).

• Cross-Functional Interaction: The hybrid model is designed to encourage focused individual work at home and collaborative, strategic engagement in the office, fostering strong working relationships with colleagues across different departments and functions.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is approximately 40 hours per week.

• Flexibility is a key requirement, with the expectation to support critical business activities such as solution deployments, system upgrades, or urgent issue resolution. This may necessitate working outside of standard business hours, including evenings and weekends, on an as-needed basis.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model is a standard offering, but the explicit mention of flexibility for "deployments, upgrades, or issue resolution" underscores the critical nature of supply chain technology operations and the need for on-call readiness.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review applications and conduct an initial screening call to assess basic qualifications, experience with Kinaxis, and alignment with the role's core responsibilities.

• Technical Interview(s): Expect one or more in-depth interviews focusing on Kinaxis Supply Planning architecture, solution design principles, supply chain planning concepts, and technical leadership capabilities. These may involve whiteboard sessions or scenario-based problem-solving.

• Case Study/Presentation: A common step for this level of role involves a prepared case study or presentation. Candidates will likely be asked to present a past project demonstrating their solution design, process optimization, and leadership skills, focusing on quantifiable results and challenges overcome.

• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: Interviews designed to assess leadership style, collaboration skills, problem-solving approach, and alignment with Pfizer's values and culture. This may involve questions about managing teams, stakeholder engagement, and handling complex situations.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership (e.g., Director/VP of IBT or Supply Chain) to discuss strategic vision, long-term impact, and overall fit for the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Impact: For each project or case study presented, clearly articulate the business problem, your specific role and contributions, the solution implemented, and most importantly, the measurable business outcomes (e.g., cost savings, efficiency gains, improved forecast accuracy, reduced lead times).

• Structure Your Narrative: Organize your portfolio items logically, perhaps chronologically or by functional area. For each piece, use a STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or similar framework to tell a compelling story about your accomplishments.

• Highlight Kinaxis Expertise: Explicitly showcase your experience with Kinaxis Supply Planning features, modules (like Maestro), configuration, and optimization. Detail any complex integrations or custom development.

• Demonstrate Leadership: Include examples where you led technical teams, managed projects, mentored colleagues, or influenced stakeholders. Showcase your ability to drive change and adoption.

• Tailor to Pfizer: Research Pfizer's supply chain challenges and strategic priorities. If possible, subtly tailor your presentation to show how your experience and skills can address their specific needs.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss how you would approach designing or optimizing a specific planning process within Kinaxis (e.g., capacity planning for a new drug launch, scenario analysis for a supply disruption).

• Practice articulating complex technical concepts in a clear, concise manner suitable for both technical and non-technical audiences.

• Anticipate questions about managing technical debt, implementing new technologies (like AI/generative tools), and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within a team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes both technical depth in Kinaxis and strong leadership/project management skills. A well-prepared portfolio and presentation are crucial for demonstrating impact and strategic thinking.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Kinaxis Supply Planning: The core platform for this role. Expertise in Maestro, RapidResponse, and associated modules for demand planning, supply planning, capacity planning, network design, and scenario modeling is essential.

• ERP Systems: Experience with major Enterprise Resource Planning systems like SAP or Oracle (specifically S/4HANA, ECC, or similar) is critical for understanding data integration points and business processes. JDE (JD Edwards) is also mentioned as a plus.

• Integration Technologies: Familiarity with ETL tools, APIs, and middleware for connecting Kinaxis with other enterprise systems is highly valued.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Kinaxis Analytics: Proficiency in utilizing Kinaxis' built-in reporting and analytics capabilities.

• Business Intelligence (BI) Tools: Experience with tools such as Tableau, Power BI, or QlikView for creating dashboards and visualizing supply chain performance data.

• Data Warehousing & Databases: Understanding of data warehousing concepts and experience with SQL for data extraction and analysis.

CRM & Automation:

• While not explicitly stated as primary for this role, understanding how CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) integrate with supply chain planning for demand signals can be beneficial.

• Workflow Automation: Familiarity with process automation tools or scripting (e.g., Python) could be advantageous for streamlining tasks and data management.

• AI/Generative Technologies: Experience with tools like ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot is listed as a bonus, indicating an openness to leveraging AI for productivity and problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily centered around Kinaxis and its integration with core ERP systems. Proficiency in data management, analytics, and emerging AI tools will set candidates apart.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Patient Focus: At Pfizer, the ultimate value is improving patient lives. All operational decisions and technology implementations should ultimately serve this mission by ensuring the reliable supply of medicines.

• Integrity and Ethics: A strong commitment to ethical conduct, transparency, and compliance with all regulatory requirements governing the pharmaceutical industry.

• Innovation and Agility: A culture that encourages new ideas, embraces technological advancements (like AI), and adapts quickly to changing market dynamics and business needs.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: Emphasis on working together across functions and geographies to achieve common goals, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.

• Excellence and Accountability: A drive for high performance, continuous improvement, and taking ownership of responsibilities to deliver impactful results.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role requires extensive collaboration with diverse teams, including Supply Chain Planning, Manufacturing Operations, Digital Technology, Quality Assurance, and Commercial. Effective communication and a partnership mindset are key.

• Data-Driven Dialogue: Discussions and decision-making are expected to be grounded in data and analysis, leveraging insights from planning systems and performance metrics.

• Process-Oriented Approach: A shared focus on defining, documenting, and optimizing processes to ensure consistency, efficiency, and compliance across all supply chain operations.

• Knowledge Sharing: An environment that promotes sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise, particularly within the Kinaxis user community.

📝 Enhancement Note: Pfizer's values are deeply embedded in its mission. Successful candidates will demonstrate how their work contributes to patient well-being and aligns with the company's commitment to integrity, innovation, and collaboration.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Pharmaceutical Supply Chains: Navigating the intricate regulatory landscape, global distribution networks, and unique product requirements (e.g., cold chain, shelf life) inherent in the pharmaceutical industry.

• System Integration Complexity: Ensuring seamless and reliable integration between Kinaxis and various ERP systems (SAP, JDE) and other enterprise applications, which can be technically challenging.

• Driving Adoption and Change Management: Overcoming resistance to change and effectively training diverse user groups across different geographies and functional areas to adopt new planning processes and tools.

• Balancing Innovation with Stability: Implementing new technologies and optimizing processes while maintaining the stability and reliability of critical supply chain operations, especially during deployments.

• Leveraging AI Effectively: Exploring and integrating emerging AI and generative technologies responsibly and effectively into planning processes to enhance productivity and decision-making, while managing associated risks.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Kinaxis Training: Opportunities for specialized training and certifications in advanced Kinaxis modules and functionalities.

• Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Expertise: Gaining deep knowledge of the specific challenges and best practices within the pharmaceutical sector's supply chain.

• Leadership Development Programs: Access to Pfizer's internal leadership development programs to hone management, strategic thinking, and communication skills.

• Industry Conferences and Networking: Participation in relevant supply chain and Kinaxis user conferences to stay current with industry trends and engage with peers.

• Cross-Functional Project Exposure: Involvement in high-impact, cross-functional projects that offer exposure to different areas of the business and broad operational challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges reflect the inherent complexities of a global pharmaceutical supply chain and the leading-edge nature of supply chain technology. The growth opportunities are geared towards building deep expertise and advancing into strategic leadership roles.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex supply chain planning challenge you've solved using Kinaxis. What was the problem, your approach, the technical solution, and the quantifiable business impact?" (Focus on process improvement case study structure and storytelling for operations results).

• "How would you approach designing a new capacity planning process in Kinaxis for a new drug launch, considering regulatory constraints and volatile demand?" (Focus on process examples guidance and efficiency strategy demonstration).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Pfizer's 'data first' strategy is key to our operations. How have you used data analytics to drive improvements in previous planning roles?" (Focus on research and cultural fit assessment).

• "Describe a time you had to influence stakeholders who were resistant to adopting a new planning process or technology. How did you manage the situation and achieve buy-in?" (Focus on preparation guidance and collaboration examples).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your presentation around 1-3 key projects. For each, clearly define the business problem, your role, the solution (emphasizing Kinaxis architecture and design), the implementation process, and the measurable results (ROI, efficiency gains, risk reduction).

• Visuals: Use clear diagrams (e.g., process flows, architecture diagrams) to illustrate your points. Keep slides concise and focused on key messages.

• Storytelling: Frame your experience as a narrative. Highlight the challenges, your strategic thinking, the collaborative efforts, and the ultimate success, demonstrating your problem-solving and leadership capabilities.

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to dive deep into the technical aspects of your Kinaxis solutions, integrations, and data management strategies when asked.

• Pfizer Context: Connect your experience to Pfizer's mission and potential challenges. Show an understanding of the pharmaceutical industry's unique demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong command of Kinaxis, a strategic approach to supply chain planning, proven leadership abilities, and a clear understanding of how technology drives business value, particularly within the pharmaceutical sector.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Planning Solution Design Manager position:

• Submit Your Application: Complete and submit your application through the provided link on the Pfizer Careers portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight your specific experience with Kinaxis Supply Planning, solution architecture, project management, team leadership, and any relevant pharmaceutical industry experience. Use keywords from the job description to ensure ATS compatibility.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: If requested, or as a proactive measure, curate a portfolio showcasing your most impactful Kinaxis projects. This should include case studies demonstrating your design rationale, process optimization efforts, integration experience, and quantifiable results. Be ready to present key projects clearly and concisely.

• Research Pfizer: Gain a thorough understanding of Pfizer's business, its supply chain operations, its digital strategy, and its company values. This will enable you to tailor your responses and demonstrate a genuine interest in the role and organization.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples (using the STAR method) and scenario-based questions related to Kinaxis, supply chain planning challenges, and leadership. Practice articulating your experience and impact effectively.

⚠️ 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.