Solution Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Solution Design Manager Company: A.P. Moller - Maersk Location: Germany or Poland (Remote flexibility within these countries) Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Revenue Operations / GTM Operations (Solution Design Focus) Date Posted: December 23, 2025 Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years) Remote Status: Hybrid (with flexibility)

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and develop comprehensive logistics solutions, including warehouse layouts, staffing, equipment, IT requirements, and operational processes, to support customer proposals and drive contract logistics growth.
• Act as a trusted technical advisor within the sales process, ensuring the operational viability and HSSE/quality compliance of proposed solutions for large-scale opportunities.
• Develop and refine new logistics concepts and value propositions, integrating automation and best-in-class technical and organizational solutions.
• Build and disseminate market and product knowledge across relevant stakeholders and teams to foster a shared understanding of capabilities and opportunities.
• Leverage a data-driven approach and strong analytical skills to translate customer needs into actionable solutions and strategic plans.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Solution Design Manager," sits at the intersection of Go-To-Market (GTM) strategy and operational execution. The focus on designing solutions for sales proposals and ensuring operational viability positions it within the broader GTM Operations and Revenue Operations ecosystem, emphasizing the critical link between sales wins and seamless operational delivery. The emphasis on contract logistics and 3PL services indicates a need for deep understanding of operational workflows and efficiency.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Collaborate with sales teams to understand customer requirements and translate them into detailed, viable logistics solutions for contract logistics proposals.
• Design optimal warehouse layouts, including space utilization, material flow, and equipment placement, to maximize efficiency and safety.
• Calculate staffing requirements, equipment needs, and operational resources based on projected volumes and service level agreements (SLAs).
• Define IT requirements for warehouse operations, including WMS capabilities, integration needs, and data flow for effective management and reporting.
• Develop and document comprehensive operational processes and flows, ensuring alignment with HSSE (Health, Safety, Security, Environment) and quality standards.
• Assist in the creation of new logistics concepts and value propositions by identifying and integrating innovative technical solutions, including automation technologies.
• Provide technical expertise and support to the sales organization during the entire sales cycle, safeguarding the operational feasibility of sold solutions.
• Conduct cost analysis for proposed solutions, including operational expenses, capital expenditures, and potential ROI for clients.
• Maintain and expand market and product knowledge, sharing insights with internal stakeholders, including sales, operations, and management teams.
• Support the implementation and handover of designed solutions to the operational teams post-sales.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a crucial role in bridging the gap between sales commitments and operational realities. The emphasis on HSSE, quality, and automation suggests a need for a forward-thinking approach to solution design that prioritizes safety, efficiency, and technological advancement within the contract logistics domain.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.
• A Master's degree or relevant certifications in Supply Chain/Logistics would be advantageous.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in Contract Logistics, preferably within a 3PL environment.
• Proven experience in International Supply Chains, with a deep understanding of supply chain value drivers and how they impact customer business objectives.
• Demonstrated experience in designing and developing logistics solutions, including strong proficiency in warehouse operations and distribution processes.

Required Skills:

• Contract Logistics & 3PL Expertise: Deep understanding of 3PL operations, service offerings, and customer engagement models.
• Supply Chain Acumen: Strong grasp of international supply chain dynamics, value drivers, and customer business impact.
• Data-Driven Analysis: Ability to analyze complex data sets, identify trends, and translate insights into actionable solutions and strategic plans.
• Warehouse & Distribution Operations: Extensive knowledge of warehousing processes, distribution networks, and operational best practices.
• Technology & Automation: Proven understanding of technologies supporting warehousing processes, including WMS functionalities, automation solutions, and modeling techniques.
• Logistics Processes & Solution Design: Numerate, financially astute, and analytical with a solid foundation in logistics processes and solution design methodologies.
• WMS Proficiency: Comprehensive understanding of Warehouse Management System (WMS) requirements and functionality.
• Collaboration & Relationship Building: Proven track record of building strong relationships and networks in matrix, multicultural organizations.
• Agility & Self-Starting: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, versatile environment, demonstrating initiative and proactivity.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specific automation technologies (e.g., robotics, AGVs, automated storage and retrieval systems).
• Vertical-specific knowledge in key Maersk target industries (e.g., automotive, retail, pharmaceuticals).
• Experience with supply chain modeling and simulation software.
• Proficiency in project management methodologies.
• Knowledge of HSSE regulations and quality management systems in logistics.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of deep operational understanding, strategic thinking, and technical acumen. The specific mention of WMS requirements and automation technologies points to a need for candidates who can not only design but also envision and articulate the integration of advanced systems. The "agile and self-starter" attribute is crucial for a role that supports growth and innovation in a dynamic market.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Solution Design Case Studies: Showcase detailed examples of logistics solutions designed for complex customer requirements, highlighting warehouse layouts, process flows, and resource allocation.
• Process Optimization Examples: Present documented instances where your solutions led to measurable improvements in efficiency, cost reduction, or service levels within warehouse or distribution operations.
• Technology Integration Proposals: Include examples of how you've specified and integrated WMS or other relevant technologies into solution designs.
• Costing & ROI Analysis: Demonstrate your ability to develop financial models for proposed solutions, including cost breakdowns and projected ROI for clients.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Evidence of designing clear, efficient, and compliant operational workflows for various logistics functions.
• Implementation Planning: Examples of outlining the steps and resources required for implementing new operational processes or technologies.
• Performance Measurement Frameworks: Demonstrations of how you've defined key performance indicators (KPIs) and measurement strategies to track the success of designed solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Solution Design Manager, a portfolio is critical. It should not just list responsibilities but visually and quantitatively demonstrate the candidate's ability to architect and articulate effective logistics solutions. The focus should be on tangible outcomes and the strategic thought process behind the design.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Solution Design Managers with 5-10 years of experience in Germany and Poland, a competitive salary range is estimated between €60,000 - €90,000 annually in Germany and PLN 200,000 - PLN 350,000 annually in Poland. This range can vary based on specific experience, qualifications, and the exact location within these countries, considering regional cost of living differences.

Benefits:

• Hybrid Working Flexibility: Ability to blend remote work with on-site collaboration, offering a good work-life balance.
• World-Class Learning Programmes: Access to extensive training and development opportunities to enhance skills and accelerate career growth.
• Diverse and Inclusive Culture: Employment within a company that values diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a welcoming environment.
• Industry-Leading Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package typically including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and potentially performance-based bonuses.
• Global Opportunities: Potential for international exposure and collaboration within Maersk's extensive global network.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, typically around 40 hours per week. While core hours will apply, the hybrid nature of the role offers flexibility in structuring the workday, accommodating project deadlines and team collaboration needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary ranges are estimated based on current market data for similar roles in Germany and Poland, factoring in the experience level and the specialized nature of solution design within logistics. Maersk, as a global leader, is expected to offer a robust benefits package.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Global Integrated Logistics and Shipping. Maersk is a dominant force in the shipping and logistics industry, undergoing a significant transformation to become a comprehensive end-to-end logistics provider. Company Size: Over 100,000 employees globally. This large scale indicates a robust organizational structure with ample resources and opportunities for cross-functional collaboration. Founded: 1904. With over a century of history, Maersk has a strong legacy and deep-rooted expertise in maritime and logistics operations.

Team Structure:

• The Solution Design team likely operates as a specialized unit supporting the sales and commercial functions, working closely with operational teams across various business units.
• Reporting structures will likely involve a hierarchy within the solution design or commercial operations department, with potential dotted-line reporting to regional sales leads.
• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving close partnerships with sales, operations management, IT, finance, and HSSE departments.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Employs data-driven methodologies to analyze customer needs, market trends, and operational performance to inform solution design.
• Process Optimization: Focuses on designing efficient, standardized, and scalable operational processes that align with best practices and customer requirements.
• Automation & Technology Integration: Actively explores and integrates automation and advanced technologies into solutions to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service quality.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Maersk's transformation towards an integrated logistics provider means that roles like Solution Design Manager are pivotal in shaping this new identity. The company culture likely balances a strong heritage with a forward-looking, innovative approach to logistics challenges.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-to-Senior Management. This role requires significant experience and the ability to independently design and validate complex solutions, indicating a leadership track within operations or commercial support functions. Reporting Structure: Likely reports to a Head of Solution Design, Commercial Operations, or a senior executive within Contract Logistics for the region. This position will involve close collaboration with sales directors and operational managers. Operations Impact: The Solution Design Manager directly influences revenue generation by enabling the sales team to win large contract logistics deals. Their designs ensure that the operational capabilities can meet and exceed customer expectations, thereby safeguarding client retention and driving profitable growth.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific industry verticals or advanced automation technologies within logistics.
• Leadership: Transition into roles managing larger solution design teams, leading commercial operations, or moving into senior operational management positions.
• Strategic Development: Contribute to the strategic development of Maersk's contract logistics offerings and value propositions.
• International Mobility: Leverage the global nature of Maersk for opportunities in different regions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a strategic pivot point for professionals looking to blend technical design with commercial impact. The growth path is clear, moving from designing individual solutions to shaping broader service offerings and leading teams.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid. Employees are expected to work from a designated office location some days of the week, with the flexibility to work remotely on other days. This fosters collaboration while allowing for focused individual work. Office Location(s): The role is open to candidates based anywhere in Germany or Poland, with specific office hubs likely in major logistics centers such as Philippsburg, Bremerhaven, Hamburg, Duisburg (Germany), and Mszczonów (Poland).

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model and emphasis on cross-functional work encourage a collaborative atmosphere where ideas are exchanged freely.
• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard and advanced software for design, modeling, and communication. This includes sophisticated CAD tools for layouts, WMS simulation software, and robust project management platforms.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities to interact with diverse teams, including sales professionals, operational experts, IT specialists, and senior management, providing broad exposure to different facets of the business.

Work Schedule:

• Standard business hours apply, but the hybrid arrangement allows for flexibility. The nature of solution design often requires periods of intense focus, which can be managed within the flexible framework. The role demands responsiveness to sales cycles and customer needs, which may occasionally necessitate working outside of standard hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work arrangement at Maersk is designed to balance the need for in-person collaboration essential for complex solution design with the flexibility sought by modern professionals, particularly those in analytical and design-focused roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A call with an HR representative or recruiter to assess basic qualifications, cultural fit, and understanding of the role.
• Hiring Manager Interview: In-depth discussion with the hiring manager focusing on experience, technical skills, and approach to solution design. Expect questions about contract logistics, WMS, automation, and customer engagement.
• Technical/Case Study Interview: A practical assessment where candidates may be asked to analyze a hypothetical logistics scenario, design a solution, or present a case study from their portfolio. This could involve a presentation or a live problem-solving exercise.
• Cross-Functional Interview: Meeting with key stakeholders from sales, operations, or IT to evaluate collaboration skills and ability to work within a matrix organization.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader to discuss strategic fit, career aspirations, and final alignment with company values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each case study, clearly define the customer challenge, your proposed solution, the key design elements (layout, process, tech), the implementation considerations, and the quantifiable results or benefits achieved.
• Highlight Process Improvement: Emphasize how your designs led to measurable improvements in efficiency, cost savings, safety, or service quality. Use metrics and data to back up your claims.
• Showcase Technical Acumen: Clearly articulate your understanding of WMS functionalities, automation possibilities, and how you integrated these into your designs.
• Tailor to Maersk: If possible, research Maersk's current offerings and target industries. Frame your experience and portfolio examples to align with their strategic goals and operational needs.
• Presentation Clarity: Be prepared to walk through your portfolio confidently, explaining your thought process and decision-making.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario Analysis: Practice analyzing complex logistics problems under time constraints. Focus on identifying key constraints, opportunities, and potential solutions.
• Solution Design Framework: Develop a consistent framework for approaching solution design challenges, covering data gathering, analysis, solution ideation, validation, and presentation.
• Stakeholder Communication: Prepare to articulate your solutions clearly and persuasively to different audiences (sales, operations, finance), addressing their specific concerns and priorities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly assess a candidate's technical expertise, commercial acumen, and collaborative capabilities. A strong, well-presented portfolio is paramount for showcasing the practical application of their skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Warehouse Management Systems (WMS): Deep understanding of WMS functionalities, configurations, and integration requirements. Experience with leading WMS platforms (e.g., Manhattan Associates, Blue Yonder, Oracle WMS, SAP EWM) is highly valuable.
• Logistics Simulation Software: Proficiency in tools used for modeling warehouse operations, testing different layouts, and analyzing process flows (e.g., Arena, AnyLogic, FlexSim).
• CAD Software: Familiarity with computer-aided design tools for creating warehouse layouts and visualizing material flow (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks).
• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Excel (for financial modeling, data analysis), PowerPoint (for presentations and proposals), and Word.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Business Intelligence (BI) Tools: Experience with BI platforms (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) for data analysis, visualization, and reporting on operational performance metrics.
• Data Analysis Tools: Skills in using tools for data manipulation and analysis, potentially including SQL or Python for more advanced capabilities.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: Understanding of how logistics solutions integrate with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) to support the sales process.
• Automation Technologies: Familiarity with various automation solutions relevant to warehousing, such as Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS), Conveyor Systems, Pick-to-Light, Voice Picking, and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) for administrative tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong command of WMS and simulation/modeling tools is critical for this role. The ability to translate operational needs into system requirements and then visualize their impact through design and simulation is a core competency.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Centricity: A commitment to understanding and exceeding customer expectations through well-designed, reliable logistics solutions.
• Integrity & Safety: Upholding the highest standards of health, safety, security, and environmental responsibility in all designs and operational plans.
• Efficiency & Continuous Improvement: A drive to optimize processes, reduce waste, and implement innovative solutions that enhance operational performance.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive and collaborative environment where diverse perspectives are valued and leveraged to achieve common goals.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Relying on data and analytics to inform design choices, measure success, and drive informed business decisions.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively partners with sales, operations, IT, and finance to ensure holistic solution development and successful implementation.
• Constructive Feedback: Open to receiving and providing constructive feedback to refine designs and improve processes.
• Knowledge Sharing: Encourages the sharing of best practices, market insights, and technical knowledge across teams to uplift collective expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: Maersk's stated values likely emphasize reliability, customer focus, and a commitment to sustainable and ethical practices, which would be reflected in the operations team's approach to solution design and execution.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Scope and Feasibility: Designing solutions that are ambitious and meet complex customer needs while remaining operationally feasible, cost-effective, and compliant.
• Rapid Technological Advancements: Keeping pace with the evolving landscape of automation and logistics technology to integrate the most effective solutions.
• Global Complexity: Navigating diverse regulatory environments, market conditions, and operational standards across different regions.
• Integrating New Concepts: Successfully introducing and gaining buy-in for novel logistics concepts and automation technologies within a large, established organization.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Solution Design Training: Access to specialized courses and workshops on logistics design, automation, and supply chain optimization.
• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining relevant certifications in supply chain management, logistics, or project management.
• Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to learn from experienced leaders within Maersk's global operations and commercial teams.
• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gaining deeper insights into sales strategies, operational execution, and IT infrastructure through close collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges inherent in this role are significant, requiring a blend of innovation, pragmatism, and adaptability. These challenges also present substantial opportunities for professional growth and skill development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex contract logistics solution you designed. What were the key challenges, your approach, and the outcome?" (Focus on detailing your process, problem-solving, and quantifiable results.)
• "How do you balance innovative automation solutions with operational practicality and cost-effectiveness in your designs?" (Prepare to discuss trade-offs and your decision-making criteria.)
• "Walk me through how you would approach designing a new warehouse solution for a client in the [specific industry Maersk targets, e.g., automotive] sector." (Demonstrate your structured approach, data needs, and key considerations.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Maersk's transformation into an end-to-end logistics provider, and how does this role contribute to that vision?" (Show you've researched the company's strategic direction.)
• "How do you foster collaboration when working with sales teams who may have different priorities or timelines?" (Prepare examples of successful cross-functional partnerships.)
• "How do you ensure your solutions align with HSSE and quality standards?" (Highlight your understanding of compliance and risk management in design.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Start with the 'Why': For each case study, clearly articulate the business problem or customer need.
• Show, Don't Just Tell: Use visuals (diagrams, flowcharts, mock-ups) to illustrate your designs. Quantify impacts with metrics (e.g., X% efficiency gain, Y% cost reduction).
• Explain Your Role: Be clear about your specific contributions to the solution.
• Address Potential Challenges: Be prepared to discuss any limitations or trade-offs in your designs and how you addressed them.
• Conciseness: Aim for clarity and brevity, focusing on the most impactful aspects of each project.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparing specific examples that demonstrate your analytical skills, process design capabilities, and ability to integrate technology into viable solutions will be key. Emphasize how you translate complex requirements into actionable, efficient, and cost-effective operational designs.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Solution Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Maersk Careers portal via the provided URL.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience in contract logistics, 3PL, international supply chains, warehouse operations, and solution design. Use keywords from the job description and Maersk's industry.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 strong case studies showcasing your most impactful solution designs, focusing on process improvements, technology integration, and quantifiable results. Be ready to present these.
• Research Maersk: Understand their current business strategy, focus industries, and recent developments in their integrated logistics transformation.
• Practice Interview Questions: Prepare thoughtful answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples and scenario-based responses that highlight your skills and experience.

⚠️ 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.

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