Solution Design Manager (Warehouse Automation)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Solution Design Manager (Warehouse Automation)

Company: Toll Group

Location: Sydney Olympic Park, New South Wales, Australia; Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Laverton North, Victoria, Australia

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Operations - Supply Chain & Logistics Solutions Design

Date Posted: 2025-11-17

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

🚀 Role Summary

• Develop and implement innovative warehouse and distribution solutions, focusing on intralogistics and automation, to meet customer and business objectives.

• Lead the end-to-end design process for complex logistics projects, from initial concept and data analysis through to commercial viability assessment and stakeholder presentation.

• Utilize advanced analytical and modeling skills to create cost models, process flows, and business cases that drive operational efficiency and competitive advantage.

• Collaborate extensively with sales, operations, implementation, and project management teams to ensure seamless solution delivery and customer satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within Toll Group's Retail, Consumer & Auto (RCA) division, indicating a focus on contract warehousing and distribution for consumer-facing industries, specialty retail, automotive, and FMCG. The emphasis on "warehouse automation" and "intralogistics design" suggests a need for deep expertise in modern warehouse technologies and operational flow optimization within a 3PL context. The mention of "commercial due diligence" and "tender responses" highlights the strategic and business development aspects of the role.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead high to low complexity intralogistics design projects, encompassing warehouse layout, process optimization, and automation technology integration.

• Conduct thorough operational data analysis, including labor, space, and equipment utilization, to develop accurate cost models and compelling business cases.

• Design detailed process flows and operational blueprints that align with customer requirements and Toll Group's operational capabilities.

• Prepare and deliver comprehensive tender responses, quotations, and persuasive presentations to internal stakeholders and prospective clients.

• Collaborate with sales teams during the pre-sales phase to understand customer needs and co-create tailored solutions.

• Partner with implementation and project management teams to ensure smooth handover and successful execution of designed solutions.

• Proactively identify opportunities for innovation, cost savings, and continuous improvement within existing and future logistics operations.

• Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with customers, vendors, and internal cross-functional teams to foster a solutions-oriented approach.

• Ensure all proposed solutions are commercially viable, align with Toll Group's strategic business goals, and deliver demonstrable ROI.

• Stay abreast of industry trends in warehouse automation, logistics technology, and supply chain best practices to inform solution design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of technical design, analytical rigor, and commercial responsibility. The role requires not just designing efficient warehouse operations but also ensuring these designs are financially sound, aligned with sales objectives, and executable by implementation teams. This suggests a need for strong project management and communication skills alongside technical expertise.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in the logistics or supply chain sector.

• At least 2 years of dedicated experience in a solutions design, analytical, or engineering role specifically focused on warehouse operations.

Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data analysis, modeling, and financial forecasting.

• Expertise in developing compelling presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint.

• Strong understanding and practical application of warehouse design principles and methodologies.

• Proven experience with various warehouse automation technologies (e.g., WMS, WCS, AGVs, AS/RS, sortation systems).

• Exceptional analytical and quantitative problem-solving skills, with a keen eye for detail and accuracy.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical and commercial concepts clearly.

• Demonstrated ability to present complex information effectively to diverse audiences, including senior management and clients.

• A highly collaborative mindset with proven experience working effectively across multiple departments and functions.

• Strong commercial acumen, understanding of financial metrics, and the ability to translate operational designs into business value.

Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Visio for process mapping and workflow design.

• Familiarity with AutoCAD or similar CAD software for warehouse layout design.

• Experience with simulation software for logistics and warehouse operations.

• Knowledge of Supply Chain Planning (SCP) and Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) functionalities and best practices.

• Experience in the Retail, Consumer & Auto, Specialty Retail, or FMCG sectors.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "Advanced Microsoft Excel skills" is critical, suggesting that candidates will be expected to build complex financial models, cost-benefit analyses, and operational simulations. Proficiency in PowerPoint is also essential for presenting these findings. The explicit mention of Visio and AutoCAD indicates a need for strong capabilities in process visualization and physical layout design, respectively, which are core to warehouse solution design.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio of successfully designed warehouse or intralogistics solutions, showcasing a range of complexities and industry applications.

• Provide detailed case studies that clearly outline the problem statement, your analytical approach, the proposed solution, and quantifiable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, efficiency gains, throughput improvements).

• Include examples of cost models, operational flow diagrams, and business cases developed for logistics projects.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of creating clear, concise, and actionable process documentation for logistics operations, including standard operating procedures (SOPs) and workflow diagrams.

• Demonstrate experience in documenting the design and implementation phases of automation projects, highlighting key decision points and risk mitigation strategies.

• Showcase an understanding of how to measure and report on the performance of designed solutions post-implementation, linking back to initial design objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Solution Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not only display the breadth of projects undertaken but also the depth of analytical and design thinking. Candidates should be prepared to walk through their portfolio, explaining their role, methodologies, challenges encountered, and the tangible business impact of their solutions. Emphasis should be on quantifiable results and the strategic rationale behind design choices.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $120,000 - $170,000 AUD per annum (estimated)

Benefits:

• Competitive base salary and potential for performance-based bonuses.

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage (medical, dental, vision).

• Generous paid time off (annual leave, personal/carer's leave).

• Retirement savings plan (e.g., Superannuation contributions).

• Opportunities for professional development, training, and certifications in logistics and automation.

• Employee assistance programs for well-being support.

• Access to corporate discounts and employee benefits programs.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 38-40 hours per week.

• Flexibility may be available, with a focus on project deadlines and business needs, potentially requiring occasional work outside standard hours for critical project milestones or customer engagements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry benchmarks for Solution Design Managers with 7+ years of experience in warehouse automation and logistics in major Australian metropolitan areas (Sydney, Melbourne). It considers the specific nature of the role within a large, established logistics company and the specialized skills required. Benefits are typical for a full-time professional role at a company of Toll Group's size and scope.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing, and Distribution. Toll Group operates in a dynamic and competitive global market, with a significant presence in the Asia-Pacific region.

Company Size: 16,000+ employees globally. This indicates a large, established organization with structured processes and opportunities for career progression.

Founded: Over 130 years ago. Toll Group has a long history, suggesting stability, deep industry knowledge, and a robust operational framework.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the Intralogistics Solutions team, part of the Retail, Consumer & Auto (RCA) division. This team likely comprises specialized analysts, designers, and engineers focused on optimizing warehouse and distribution operations.

• The team structure will likely involve reporting to a Head of Solutions Design or similar senior operational leadership. Collaboration will be extensive with Sales, Operations Management, Implementation Teams, and Project Managers.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Solutions are developed based on rigorous analysis of operational data, including throughput, labor, space utilization, and cost metrics.

• Customer-Centric Process Planning: A focus on understanding specific customer needs and designing tailored solutions that address their unique supply chain challenges.

• Automation & Efficiency Focus: Continuous exploration and integration of automation technologies and process improvements to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service levels.

• Commercial Viability Assessment: Solutions are evaluated not only for their operational efficiency but also for their commercial feasibility and alignment with business objectives and profitability targets.

Company Website: www.tollgroup.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Toll Group's long history and large global footprint suggest a culture that values experience, reliability, and structured processes, while also embracing innovation to remain competitive. The RCA division's focus on specific industries implies specialized knowledge and tailored service offerings within those sectors.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a mid-to-senior level position, typically referred to as a Manager or Senior Analyst, focusing on specialized solutions design within operations. It requires significant technical expertise, analytical capability, and project leadership.

Reporting Structure: The Solution Design Manager will likely report to a senior leader within the Solutions Design or Operations Strategy function, such as a Head of Solutions Design, Director of Operations, or VP of Supply Chain. They will collaborate closely with Sales Directors, Operations Managers, and Project Managers.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and significant impact on Toll Group's ability to win and retain business by designing compelling, cost-effective, and efficient logistics solutions. Successful designs translate directly into revenue generation, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction, contributing to the company's overall profitability and market position.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization Advancement: Deepen expertise in specific areas of warehouse automation, such as robotics, AI in logistics, or advanced WMS/WCS implementations.

• Leadership Progression: Advance into senior management roles, such as Head of Solutions Design, Director of Supply Chain Strategy, or VP of Operations, leading larger teams and broader initiatives.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunities to move into related fields like Project Management (for large automation implementations), Operations Management, or Business Development within the logistics sector.

• Industry Expertise Development: Gain extensive experience across diverse industries (Retail, Consumer, Auto, FMCG), building a broad and valuable skill set.

• Global Exposure: Leverage Toll Group's international presence for potential assignments or collaborations on global projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a crucial stepping stone for operations professionals looking to specialize in logistics solutions design and automation. Its impact is strategic, influencing business wins and operational excellence. The growth path offers clear progression into leadership or deeper specialization within the complex world of supply chain solutions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily office-based, with potential for site visits to existing or prospective customer warehouses and Toll Group facilities. The office environment will be professional, supporting collaboration and focused analytical work.

Office Location(s): The position is open to be based in Sydney Olympic Park (NSW), Melbourne (Victoria), or Laverton North (Victoria), Australia. This offers flexibility to candidates in these major Australian logistics hubs.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be an open-plan office or a dedicated team area, fostering interaction and knowledge sharing among solutions design professionals.

• Access to standard office technology, high-performance computing for modeling, and relevant software licenses (Microsoft Office Suite, Visio, AutoCAD) will be provided.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with sales, operations, and implementation teams, facilitating a holistic understanding of the logistics lifecycle.

Work Schedule: A standard full-time work schedule (approx. 40 hours/week) is expected. However, the nature of solutions design and project-based work may require flexibility, including occasional evening or weekend work to meet critical deadlines, client presentation schedules, or site visit requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role, combining office-based analytical work with essential site visits, requires adaptability. Candidates should be comfortable with both desk-based problem-solving and on-the-ground assessment of operational environments. The multiple location options are a significant advantage for candidates in Australia.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application by a recruiter to assess basic qualifications and experience. Be prepared to highlight your experience with warehouse automation and solutions design.

• Hiring Manager Interview (Phone/Video): A discussion with the hiring manager to delve deeper into your experience, technical skills, and understanding of logistics design principles. Focus on your quantifiable achievements and problem-solving approach.

• Technical Assessment/Case Study: You may be asked to complete a technical assessment or a case study. This could involve analyzing a sample dataset, designing a conceptual warehouse layout, or developing a high-level cost model for a hypothetical scenario. Prepare to showcase your analytical and design thinking.

• Panel Interview: A meeting with key stakeholders, potentially including sales leaders, operations managers, and project managers. This interview will assess your collaboration skills, commercial acumen, and ability to present complex solutions effectively.

• Final Interview: A concluding discussion, possibly with a senior executive, to confirm cultural fit and overall suitability for the role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your most impactful projects that best demonstrate your capabilities in warehouse automation and solutions design.

• Structure Your Stories: For each project, clearly articulate the "Situation" (customer need/problem), "Task" (your objective), "Action" (your design process, analysis, and tools used), and "Result" (quantifiable outcomes and business impact).

• Highlight Metrics: Emphasize the data and metrics used to justify your design choices and the results achieved (e.g., % reduction in operational costs, % increase in throughput, ROI).

• Visual Aids: Use clear diagrams, flowcharts, and layout examples where appropriate to illustrate your designs. Ensure they are easy to understand.

• Be Prepared to Defend: Be ready to discuss your design decisions, assumptions made, potential risks, and alternative approaches you considered.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand Toll's Business: Research Toll Group's services, target industries (RCA division specifically), and recent news. Understand their position in the logistics market.

• Brush Up on Automation: Review common warehouse automation technologies, their pros and cons, and typical implementation considerations.

• Practice Modeling: Be ready to discuss or perform basic modeling tasks related to warehouse capacity, operational costs, or labor requirements.

• Presentation Skills: Practice presenting your portfolio and technical concepts concisely and engagingly. Tailor your communication style to different audiences (technical vs. commercial).

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess a candidate's technical depth, analytical capabilities, commercial awareness, and interpersonal skills. A strong portfolio is paramount, serving as tangible evidence of their ability to design effective and valuable logistics solutions. Candidates should prepare to articulate the "why" behind their design choices and the business impact they delivered.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft Excel: Advanced functions, pivot tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, financial modeling, data analysis, charting.

• Microsoft PowerPoint: Creating professional presentations for internal and external stakeholders, showcasing designs and business cases.

• Microsoft Visio: Process mapping, workflow design, creating detailed operational flow diagrams.

• AutoCAD: Designing warehouse layouts, optimizing space utilization, and visualizing physical infrastructure.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Experience with data analysis tools and techniques is essential. While specific tools aren't listed, familiarity with general BI concepts or data manipulation tools would be beneficial.

• Ability to extract, manipulate, and analyze data from various sources (e.g., WMS, ERP, operational logs) to inform design decisions.

CRM & Automation:

• WMS (Warehouse Management System): Understanding of WMS functionalities, data structures, and how they interact with operational processes and automation. Examples include Manhattan Associates, Blue Yonder (JDA), Oracle WMS.

• WCS (Warehouse Control System): Knowledge of WCS for controlling automated equipment.

• Automation Technologies: Familiarity with common automation systems such as Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS), Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), conveyor systems, sortation systems, and pick-to-light/voice technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Excel, PowerPoint, Visio, and AutoCAD indicates these are core technical requirements. Experience with WMS and WCS is also critical, as these systems are central to warehouse operations and automation. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their proficiency and experience with these specific tools and system categories.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A strong commitment to understanding and exceeding customer expectations through effective and tailored logistics solutions.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: A drive to explore new technologies and methodologies to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and deliver superior service.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Reliance on accurate data and thorough analysis to inform design choices and measure performance.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively across departments and with stakeholders to achieve shared goals and deliver integrated solutions.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding high ethical standards and taking ownership of the solutions designed and their outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The team operates by integrating with sales, operations, implementation, and IT departments to ensure a holistic approach to solution design and delivery.

• Feedback-Rich Environment: Solutions are often reviewed and refined based on feedback from various stakeholders, promoting a culture of constructive criticism and continuous refinement.

• Knowledge Sharing: A willingness to share expertise, best practices, and lessons learned within the solutions design team and across the broader organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Toll Group's stated values and the nature of this role suggest a culture that is both customer-centric and forward-thinking, balancing established operational practices with a drive for innovation. Collaboration is key, requiring individuals who can build consensus and communicate effectively across diverse teams.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Customer Needs with Commercial Viability: Designing solutions that meet complex customer requirements while ensuring profitability for Toll Group.

• Integrating Diverse Automation Technologies: Understanding and effectively integrating various automated systems within existing or new warehouse infrastructures.

• Managing Stakeholder Expectations: Aligning the expectations of different internal teams (Sales, Operations, IT) and external clients regarding solution scope, timelines, and outcomes.

• Adapting to Rapid Technological Advancements: Staying current with the fast-paced evolution of warehouse automation and logistics technology.

• Data Availability and Quality: Ensuring access to reliable data for accurate modeling and analysis, often requiring work to improve data collection processes.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Automation Training: Access to training on emerging automation technologies and their application in logistics.

• Supply Chain Certifications: Opportunities to pursue professional certifications in supply chain management, logistics, or operations.

• Project Leadership Skills: Developing skills in managing complex design projects and leading cross-functional teams.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining deep insights into the operational nuances of the Retail, Consumer & Auto, and FMCG sectors.

• Mentorship Programs: Potential to be mentored by senior leaders in operations strategy and logistics design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a senior solutions design role in a rapidly evolving industry. They offer significant opportunities for professional growth and skill development, particularly in areas of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and stakeholder management.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex warehouse automation solution you designed. What were the key challenges, your approach, and the quantifiable results?" (Focus on Situation, Task, Action, Result framework, and data-driven justification).

• "How do you approach building a cost model for a new warehouse operation? What data points are critical, and how do you account for variables?" (Demonstrate analytical rigor and understanding of operational drivers).

• "Imagine a sales team needs a solution for a new client with specific throughput and cost targets. Walk me through your process from initial engagement to presenting a viable design." (Showcase your end-to-end solutions design methodology and stakeholder collaboration).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Toll Group, and specifically our Retail, Consumer & Auto division? How do you see your skills contributing to our success in these sectors?" (Show research and alignment).

• "Describe a time you had to collaborate with a difficult stakeholder. How did you manage the relationship and ensure project success?" (Assess collaboration and communication skills).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Conciseness is Key: For each project, aim for a 3-5 minute overview, focusing on the most critical aspects and outcomes.

• Visual Storytelling: Use your prepared visual aids (diagrams, charts) to guide the narrative and make complex information accessible.

• Quantify Everything: Wherever possible, present results using specific numbers, percentages, and ROI figures.

• Explain Your 'Why': Be ready to articulate the rationale behind your design choices, the trade-offs considered, and how your solution specifically addressed the client's needs.

• Engage Your Audience: Ask clarifying questions, invite feedback, and be prepared to discuss alternatives or further details.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of technical expertise, strategic thinking, commercial awareness, and strong communication skills. Candidates should be ready to "show, don't just tell" through their portfolio and well-structured examples.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Toll Group careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a concise portfolio that highlights 3-5 of your most relevant warehouse automation and solutions design projects. Focus on projects demonstrating analytical rigor, innovative design, and quantifiable business impact. Tailor the examples to align with the industries Toll Group serves (Retail, Consumer, Auto, FMCG).

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your experience in logistics, supply chain, warehouse design, automation, and solutions development. Use keywords from the job description and quantify achievements with specific metrics (e.g., "Reduced operational costs by 15% through optimized warehouse layout").

• Interview Practice: Rehearse your responses to common interview questions, focusing on the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) and practicing your portfolio presentation. Prepare to discuss your technical skills with Excel, Visio, and AutoCAD, as well as your understanding of WMS/WCS.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Toll Group, its RCA division, and its position in the Australian and global logistics market. Understand their values, culture, and recent business activities to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment.

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