Regional Solution Design Manager, APAC

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Regional Solution Design Manager, APAC Company: Rhenus Logistics Location: Bangkok, Thailand Job Type: Full-time Category: Logistics & Supply Chain Operations Date Posted: February 11, 2026 Experience Level: 5-10 years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Leads the design and development of innovative warehouse and distribution solutions across the APAC region, aligning with core Rhenus Warehousing Solutions Delivery Model (RWSDM) products and templates.
• Conducts in-depth analysis of customer operational workflows and data from RFx packages to propose optimized solutions, including storage systems, material handling equipment (MHE), and manpower allocation.
• Partners with Sales, Business Development, and Operations teams to develop competitive selling rates, support financial negotiations, and ensure the profitability and cost recovery of proposed solutions.
• Ensures compliance with Rhenus Warehousing Solutions Delivery Model (RWSDM) standards and contributes to the development of future solution design talent through coaching and training.
• Utilizes advanced software like CLASS and AutoCAD for warehouse layout design and analysis, alongside strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel for cost modeling and financial projections.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior-level Solution Design position within the logistics and supply chain industry, specifically focused on the APAC region. The emphasis on "RWSDM" and "ONE SD" suggests a structured, process-driven approach to solution design within Rhenus Logistics, requiring a candidate who can not only design but also ensure adherence to established methodologies and potentially mentor junior team members. The inclusion of "less 2 years experiences will be considered as SD Analyst" indicates a talent development pipeline, making this role critical for building future design capabilities.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and develop comprehensive warehouse and distribution solutions tailored to specific customer needs, integrating technology and innovation within the Rhenus Warehousing Solutions Delivery Model (RWSDM) framework.
• Analyze customer RFx packages, conduct site visits, and interpret workflow information to identify optimization opportunities and propose actionable improvements.
• Analyze customer data to recommend appropriate storage systems, material handling equipment (MHE), and optimal manning levels for proposed solutions.
• Collaborate closely with Sales, Business Development (BD), and Operations teams to develop competitive pricing models, simulate selling rates, and support financial negotiations to ensure target MIRR and EBIT.
• Determine estimated costs for proposed solutions by liaising with internal departments, existing vendors, and through direct sourcing.
• Develop detailed cost models based on RFx requirements, ensuring projected revenue meets or exceeds targeted Minimum Internal Rate of Return (MIRR) and Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT).
• Design internal warehouse layouts using CLASS, AutoCAD, or similar supply chain design software.
• Ensure strict compliance with the Rhenus Warehousing Solutions Delivery Model (RWSDM) for all solution design steps and guidelines within the "ONE SD" initiative.
• Provide coaching and training to junior team members or analysts to develop their solution design capabilities.
• Travel regionally as required for project-based work and customer engagements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on technical solution design and commercial acumen. The role requires not only the ability to architect operational workflows and layouts but also to translate these into financially viable proposals, directly impacting the company's ability to win new business and maintain profitability. The emphasis on RWSDM and ONE SD points to a need for process adherence and potential contributions to process refinement.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics and Supply Chain, Industrial Engineering, Business Management, or a relevant technical field.

Experience:

• A minimum of 5-10 years of relevant working experience in solution design within the logistics and supply chain industry, with a strong preference for experience in a 3PL environment.
• Proven experience in designing modern warehouse and supply chain solutions, including a solid understanding of automation technologies, robotics, and digitalization trends.
• Experience with Value Stream Mapping (VSM) and/or Six Sigma methodologies is considered a significant advantage.
• Practical working experience with CLASS, AutoCAD, or other supply chain design software/tools is highly desirable.

Required Skills:

• Solid analytical skills with a strong commercial and technical understanding of Warehouse Solutions (WS).
• Structured approach to project management, with a demonstrated ability to deliver results on time, within budget, and to high standards.
• Proficiency in warehouse solution design, capable of developing operationally feasible solutions that meet complex customer requirements.
• Excellent command of spoken and written English. Proficiency in other Asian or European languages is beneficial.
• Strong organization skills, enabling effective management of multiple projects and priorities.
• Exceptional problem-solving abilities, with a proactive and initiative-driven attitude to overcome challenges effectively.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while also coordinating and motivating teams under pressure.
• Excellent proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including advanced functions like VLOOKUP and Pivot Tables, for data analysis and cost modeling.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in VSM and/or Six Sigma methodologies.
• Knowledge of specific industry sectors such as Consumer, Retail (including E-commerce), and Electronics.
• Familiarity with 3PL operations and best practices.
• Proficiency in additional Asian or European languages.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement specifies a range that allows for both seasoned professionals and those with slightly less direct experience to be considered, with a clear pathway for development into a qualified Solution Design talent. The emphasis on analytical, commercial, and technical skills, coupled with software proficiency, is critical for this role. The preference for specific industry experience and language skills further refines the ideal candidate profile.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio showcasing successful warehouse and distribution solution designs, highlighting the process from initial customer requirement analysis through to final implementation recommendations.
• Include case studies that detail process optimization initiatives, quantifying improvements in efficiency, cost reduction, or service level enhancements.
• Present examples of system integration considerations and how technology was leveraged to meet specific customer operational needs.
• Provide evidence of financial analysis and cost modeling, demonstrating the ability to project revenue, costs, and profitability (MIRR, EBIT) for proposed solutions.

Process Documentation:

• Exhibit clear documentation of solution design methodologies, including workflow mapping, data analysis techniques, and system selection criteria.
• Showcase experience in documenting the implementation phases of designed solutions, including collaboration with operational teams and MHE vendors.
• Include examples of performance measurement frameworks used to track the success of implemented solutions against initial objectives and KPIs.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Solution Design role, a portfolio is crucial. Candidates should be prepared to present detailed case studies that not only illustrate their design capabilities but also their understanding of the financial implications and operational feasibility of their proposals. The ability to articulate the process, from initial RFx analysis to financial modeling and potential implementation considerations, is key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Regional Solution Design Manager with 5-10 years of experience in Bangkok, Thailand, the estimated salary range is between ฿1,500,000 - ฿2,500,000 per annum. This range accounts for the specific responsibilities, regional scope, and the specialized nature of solution design in the logistics sector.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement savings plan with potential company matching contributions.
• Paid time off, including annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development, including training programs, workshops, and potential for regional and international travel.
• Performance-based bonuses and incentives tied to successful project wins and profitability.
• Employee assistance programs offering confidential support for personal and professional well-being.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours, typically 40 hours per week, with potential for extended hours during critical project phases or peak business periods. Flexibility may be offered to accommodate project deadlines and regional time zone collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on market research for similar roles in Bangkok, Thailand, considering the logistics industry and the seniority of a "Regional" position. Benefits are standard for multinational corporations in the region, with a focus on professional development and performance incentives relevant to a sales-support and solution design function.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Logistics & Supply Chain Services (specifically Warehousing & Distribution). Rhenus Logistics is a global player in the logistics industry, offering a wide range of services from contract logistics to freight management. The company's operations are deeply rooted in efficiency, reliability, and customer-centric solutions. Company Size: Rhenus Logistics is a large, global organization. While specific employee numbers for the APAC region might vary, the parent company employs over 33,000 people worldwide, indicating a robust corporate structure and extensive operational network. Founded: 1898. With over a century of history, Rhenus Logistics has a long-standing reputation and deep expertise in the logistics sector, suggesting a culture that values experience, stability, and long-term growth.

Team Structure:

• The Solution Design team likely operates as a specialized unit within the broader Sales, Business Development, or Operations departments, serving as a crucial bridge between commercial pursuits and operational execution.
• This role reports into a regional or national Solution Design leadership, with close collaboration expected with country Sales/BD Managers, Operations Directors, and potentially global solution design centers.
• Cross-functional collaboration is paramount, involving frequent interaction with sales teams, operational site managers, IT, finance, and procurement to gather requirements, validate designs, and negotiate terms.

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is core, utilizing customer data, operational metrics, and financial modeling to inform solution design and pricing strategies.
• A structured, process-oriented approach to solution design is mandated through the Rhenus Warehousing Solutions Delivery Model (RWSDM), emphasizing consistency and best practices.
• Innovation is encouraged, particularly in the application of technology, automation, and digitalization to create competitive advantages and meet evolving customer needs.

Company Website: https://www.rhenus.group/

📝 Enhancement Note: As a large, established global logistics provider, Rhenus Logistics likely fosters a culture that balances structured processes and global standards with regional adaptability. The Solution Design Manager will be instrumental in translating these global standards into localized, customer-specific solutions within the APAC region.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a mid-to-senior level, designated as a "Regional Solution Design Manager." It signifies a leadership position responsible for a critical function across multiple countries within the APAC region. The role requires a blend of technical expertise in warehouse operations, sophisticated analytical and design skills, and strong commercial understanding. Reporting Structure: Typically, this role would report to a Director or Vice President of Solution Design, Sales Operations, or a similar senior leadership position within the APAC region. The manager will likely have direct reports or be responsible for guiding junior analysts or engineers within the solution design function. Operations Impact: The Solution Design Manager plays a pivotal role in the Go-To-Market (GTM) strategy by ensuring that Rhenus Logistics can accurately and profitably design solutions that meet complex customer requirements. Successful solution design directly translates into winning new business, securing long-term contracts, and driving revenue growth for the company. The accuracy of cost models and pricing simulations directly impacts profitability and the company's competitive positioning.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization & Seniority: Potential to advance into a Senior Regional Solution Design Manager, Head of Solution Design for APAC, or a global solution design leadership role, overseeing larger teams and more complex projects.
• Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunities to transition into senior roles within Sales, Business Development, Operations Management, or even strategic planning, leveraging the broad understanding of customer needs and operational capabilities gained in this role.
• Skill Development: Continuous learning in advanced automation, digitalization, supply chain technologies, and financial modeling. Potential for certifications in project management (PMP), Lean Six Sigma, or specialized supply chain design software.
• Global Exposure: As part of a global organization, there may be opportunities for international assignments or participation in global initiatives, further broadening professional experience and network.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Regional" title and the explicit mention of mentoring junior staff indicate a significant growth trajectory. Candidates should view this role not just as a design position but as a stepping stone to broader leadership within Rhenus Logistics' GTM and operational strategy.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This position is based in an office environment, likely within a Rhenus Logistics regional office in Bangkok. This setting typically offers structured workspace, meeting rooms, and access to corporate resources. Office Location(s): The primary location is "THBKK06 - Bangkok (Rhenus Assets & Services Co., Ltd.)", indicating a specific Rhenus entity within Bangkok, Thailand. This location likely serves as a hub for regional operations and customer engagement. Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be collaborative, fostering interaction with sales, operations, and other functional teams. Dedicated project rooms or shared office spaces will facilitate brainstorming and solution development.
• Access to necessary technology and software is a given, including high-performance computers for design software (CLASS, AutoCAD), Microsoft Office Suite, and potentially specialized CRM or business intelligence tools.
• Opportunities for team interaction will be ample, with regular meetings, project reviews, and cross-functional workshops essential for developing and presenting solutions.

Work Schedule: The role adheres to a standard on-site work schedule, typically Monday to Friday, with 40 hours per week. However, given the regional scope and the nature of solution design often tied to sales cycles and project deadlines, there may be an expectation for occasional flexibility to accommodate client meetings across different time zones or to meet critical project milestones.

📝 Enhancement Note: While primarily an on-site role, the regional nature implies that remote collaboration tools and practices will be in use for communication with teams and clients across APAC. The emphasis on "customer meetings" and "site visits" suggests that the office environment is a base for preparation and collaboration, but the role extends beyond the immediate office walls.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will conduct an initial phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience alignment, and cultural fit.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the hiring manager (likely a Director of Solution Design or similar) focusing on technical expertise, solution design methodologies, and project experience. Be prepared to discuss specific case studies.
• Technical/Case Study Assessment: Candidates may be given a practical exercise or a complex case study to solve, simulating a real-world customer requirement. This could involve analyzing data, proposing a solution, and outlining a cost model. This is where your portfolio will be crucial.
• Cross-Functional Interviews: Interviews with key stakeholders from Sales, Operations, and potentially Finance to assess collaboration skills, understanding of commercial aspects, and ability to integrate solutions into existing operations.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior regional leader to discuss strategic alignment, career aspirations, and final decision-making.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio by project type, industry, or complexity. For each project, clearly outline: the customer's challenge, your role, the proposed solution, key design elements, technology used, financial impact (cost savings, revenue projection), and the outcome.
• Quantify Impact: Use metrics and data wherever possible. For example, "Reduced operational costs by 15%," "Increased throughput by 20%," or "Secured a 5-year contract valued at $X million."
• Highlight Process: Explain your methodology. Detail how you approached data analysis, workflow mapping, stakeholder engagement, and risk assessment. Emphasize your adherence to or adaptation of frameworks like RWSDM.
• Showcase Tools: Explicitly mention and, if possible, visually demonstrate your proficiency with CLASS, AutoCAD, Excel (VLOOKUP, Pivot Tables), and any other relevant supply chain design or analytics software.
• Tailor to Rhenus: Research Rhenus' core WS products and solution templates. If possible, tailor your portfolio presentation to show how your skills and experience align with their known offerings and methodologies.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Core Business: Deeply research Rhenus Logistics, its services, target industries (Consumer, Retail, E-commerce, Electronics), and its competitors. Understand the typical challenges faced by 3PL clients.
• Practice Excel Modeling: Be ready to quickly build a basic cost model in Excel, incorporating elements like MHE, labor, facility costs, and overheads to derive selling rates and profitability.
• Solution Design Scenarios: Practice thinking through hypothetical customer scenarios. For instance, "A large e-commerce retailer needs to scale its operations by 50% in the next 18 months. How would you approach designing a solution for them?" Focus on identifying key drivers, potential bottlenecks, and innovative solutions.
• Commercial Acumen: Be prepared to discuss how you balance operational feasibility with profitability. Understand concepts like MIRR and EBIT and how they influence design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a role like this is rigorous, involving multiple stages and stakeholder interviews. A strong, well-prepared portfolio is not just an asset but a near necessity for demonstrating the breadth of skills required. The case study assessment is a key differentiator.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Warehouse & Supply Chain Design Software: CLASS and AutoCAD are explicitly mentioned as desirable. Proficiency in these tools for creating detailed warehouse layouts, simulating material flow, and visualizing operational processes is key.
• Microsoft Excel: Essential for data analysis, cost modeling, financial projections (including VLOOKUP, Pivot Tables), and creating business cases. Advanced proficiency is a must.
• Presentation Software: Microsoft PowerPoint or similar for developing and delivering solution proposals and case studies.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: While not explicitly named, the role requires analyzing customer data from RFx packages. This implies familiarity with data manipulation and analysis, potentially using Excel, or possibly BI tools if integrated into the Rhenus ecosystem.
• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate reports that clearly communicate solution designs, cost implications, and projected performance metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: Understanding how CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics) are used to manage customer relationships and sales pipelines, as the Solution Design Manager works closely with sales teams.
• Automation Technologies: Familiarity with modern warehousing innovations, including robotics, automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS), automated guided vehicles (AGVs), and digitalization trends is crucial for designing future-proof solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on CLASS and AutoCAD, alongside advanced Excel skills, defines the core technical requirements. Familiarity with modern automation technologies is also critical for designing competitive and innovative solutions.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer-Centricity: A strong focus on understanding and meeting customer needs is paramount, as the role directly supports sales in winning and retaining business. Solutions must be tailored and add tangible value.
• Efficiency & Optimization: A core value is the relentless pursuit of operational efficiency through process improvement, automation, and intelligent design. This drives cost competitiveness and service quality.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Solutions and pricing are grounded in thorough data analysis and financial modeling, ensuring objectivity and accuracy.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: The role necessitates close collaboration across departments (Sales, Operations, Finance, IT) to ensure seamless solution development and implementation.
• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: A forward-thinking approach, embracing new technologies and methodologies to enhance solutions and maintain a competitive edge in the dynamic logistics market.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive Engagement: Actively engaging with sales and operations teams early in the sales cycle to understand customer requirements and operational constraints.
• Transparent Communication: Maintaining open and clear communication regarding design proposals, cost implications, and potential risks with all stakeholders.
• Solution-Oriented Problem Solving: Working collaboratively to overcome challenges identified during the design or negotiation phases, finding mutually agreeable solutions.
• Knowledge Sharing: Contributing to a culture of shared learning, potentially mentoring junior team members and sharing best practices in solution design and analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture likely reflects a blend of a large, established global corporation's structure with the dynamic, customer-focused demands of the logistics industry. A candidate who can navigate complex internal structures while remaining agile and customer-focused will thrive.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Cost and Innovation: The primary challenge will be designing solutions that are both highly innovative and technologically advanced, yet also cost-effective and profitable for Rhenus Logistics. This requires a keen understanding of ROI and customer budget constraints.
• Regional Complexity: Adapting standard solutions and methodologies (RWSDM) to diverse market conditions, regulations, and operational capabilities across the APAC region.
• Data Availability and Quality: Dealing with potentially incomplete or inconsistent data from RFx packages or customer operations, requiring strong analytical skills to make informed assumptions.
• Stakeholder Alignment: Ensuring buy-in and alignment from various internal stakeholders (Sales, Operations, Finance) who may have differing priorities or perspectives.
• Rapid Technological Evolution: Keeping abreast of the fast-paced advancements in warehouse automation, robotics, and digital logistics solutions to ensure Rhenus remains at the forefront.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepening Industry Expertise: Gaining extensive exposure to diverse customer operations across various sectors (Consumer, Retail, E-commerce, Electronics) within the APAC region.
• Advanced Technology Exposure: Working with cutting-edge automation and digitalization solutions in warehouse design.
• Financial Acumen: Sharpening skills in financial modeling, ROI analysis, and complex pricing negotiations.
• Project Management Skills: Enhancing project management capabilities through the end-to-end process of solution design and proposal development.
• Leadership Development: Opportunities for formal leadership training and mentoring, preparing for future management roles within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to a senior solution design role in a global logistics company. The growth opportunities are significant, positioning this role as a key development path for future leaders in the GTM and operations functions.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex warehouse solution you designed for a client in the [mention target industry, e.g., e-commerce] sector. What were the key challenges, how did you address them, and what was the financial outcome?" (Focus on your process, tool usage, and quantifiable results).
• "How do you balance the need for innovative automation with cost constraints when designing a solution for a new client?" (Demonstrate your understanding of ROI, MIRR, EBIT, and commercial negotiation).
• "Walk me through your process for analyzing an RFx package and developing a preliminary solution proposal." (Highlight your structured approach, data analysis techniques, and stakeholder engagement).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Rhenus Logistics and our core Warehousing Solutions Delivery Model (RWSDM)?" (Research RWSDM and Rhenus's offerings thoroughly).
• "How would you ensure compliance with Rhenus's established solution design guidelines while also tailoring solutions to unique customer needs in the APAC region?" (Show your ability to adhere to standards while being adaptable).
• "Describe a time you had to collaborate with a challenging stakeholder from Sales or Operations. How did you manage the relationship and achieve a positive outcome?" (Focus on communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Storytelling: For each case study, tell a clear story: Problem -> Your Solution -> Tools Used -> Impact (Financial & Operational). Aim for 3-5 key projects that showcase your best work and range of skills.
• Visual Aids: Use clear diagrams, layout schematics (if possible and non-confidential), and financial summary charts to illustrate your points. Keep slides clean and professional.
• Quantify Everything: Be ready to discuss the numbers behind your projects – cost savings, revenue generated, efficiency improvements, ROI, payback periods.
• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your methodology, the specific software features you used, and the assumptions made in your financial models. Know your portfolio inside and out.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of technical design capability, commercial acumen, and strong communication/collaboration skills. The portfolio is your primary evidence; ensure it's polished and directly relevant to the requirements of this role at Rhenus Logistics.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link: https://rhe.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/R1111/job/Bangkok-Thailand/Regional-Solution-Design-Manager--APAC_JR117631
• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 of your most impactful solution design projects. Ensure each case study clearly details the client's challenge, your proposed solution, the tools and methodologies used (highlighting CLASS, AutoCAD, Excel, VSM, Six Sigma if applicable), and quantifiable operational and financial outcomes. Prepare visual aids for presentation.
• Tailor Your Resume: Update your resume to explicitly highlight experience in warehouse and supply chain solution design, automation, cost modeling, financial analysis (MIRR, EBIT), and cross-functional collaboration. Use keywords from the job description (e.g., RWSDM, CLASS, AutoCAD, 3PL, APAC region).
• Prepare Your Narrative: Practice articulating your experience and qualifications using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Be ready to discuss your approach to solution design, problem-solving, and stakeholder management.
• Research Rhenus Logistics: Thoroughly understand Rhenus's services, target markets, global presence, and especially their Warehousing Solutions Delivery Model (RWSDM). Familiarize yourself with their company values and recent news.

⚠️ 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.