Solutions Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Solutions Design Manager

Company: Culina Group

Location: Desborough, England, United Kingdom (with travel to Midlands or North area depots) / Warrington, England, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Revenue Operations / GTM Operations (Solutions Design focus)

Date Posted: April 07, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (estimated 5-10 years)

Remote Status: On-site (with travel requirement)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end solution design process for complex warehouse and transport tender opportunities within the FMCG logistics sector.

• Develop and present commercially viable operational and financial models, leveraging deep understanding of logistics best practices, including warehouse processes, layouts, equipment, IT systems, and shift planning.

• Drive business development by analyzing customer requirements, assessing new business opportunities, and collaborating cross-functionally to deliver compelling and competitive tender responses.

• Utilize advanced analytical and IT skills, particularly in Microsoft Excel, to manage complex data, build detailed cost models, and identify potential automation opportunities.

• Act as a key point of contact for customers throughout the tender process, building strong relationships and communicating proposals effectively up to Board Level.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Solutions Design Manager," the responsibilities and required skills strongly align with a GTM Operations or Revenue Operations function focused on pre-sales, proposal development, and operational strategy for new business acquisition within the logistics industry. The role requires a blend of operational expertise and commercial acumen, making it a strategic position within the Business Development function.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the design and development of comprehensive warehouse and transport solutions for new business tenders, ensuring commercial competitiveness and operational excellence.

• Conduct in-depth analysis of customer requirements, tender documents, and existing operational data to assess business development opportunities and provide executive summaries with strategic recommendations.

• Manage the planning and coordination of project and tender responses, liaising effectively with Regional Operations Directors, operations teams, and specialist functions across the business.

• Design optimized warehouse processes, layouts, and equipment configurations, alongside detailed transport routing and shift planning strategies, integrating industry best practices.

• Develop and execute robust resource models (people, equipment, property, IT, transport) to accurately feed into financial models and P&L budgets, working collaboratively with finance teams.

• Manage the procurement and integration of sub-contracted non-core services essential to the tender scope, ensuring seamless delivery.

• Prepare detailed financial and operational comparisons of alternative solutions, clearly articulating risks and mitigation strategies to stakeholders.

• Craft compelling tender response documentation and presentations, effectively communicating complex solutions and value propositions to clients.

• Maintain a current and forward-thinking knowledge of industry developments, including automation technologies, through professional bodies (e.g., CILT), industry events, and continuous learning.

• Support the mentorship and development of junior members within the business development and solutions design team.

• Provide crucial support during the implementation phase of newly secured contracts, ensuring a smooth transition from design to operation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a structured approach to solution design and tender management, typical of roles that bridge operational capabilities with commercial objectives. The inclusion of "supporting implementation" suggests involvement beyond just the sales cycle, a common characteristic in GTM operations roles that aim for successful customer onboarding.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Formal education in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or a related field is advantageous.

Experience:

• Proven track record in a logistics solutions design role, with demonstrated commercial accountability and experience in the UK third-party logistics (3PL) sector.

• Operational experience within logistics, warehousing, or distribution is highly advantageous, providing a practical foundation for solution design.

• Experience in managing complex data sets and translating them into actionable insights and robust financial models.

Required Skills:

• Commercial Awareness: Deep understanding of the UK third-party logistics sector, including market rates and profit & loss dynamics.

• Solutions Design: Expertise in designing integrated warehouse and transport solutions, encompassing processes, layouts, equipment, IT, and staffing.

• Analytical & IT Proficiency: Technically proficient in advanced Microsoft Office Excel (macros, pivot tables, data links, lookups) for complex data management and financial modeling.

• Stakeholder Management: Confident communication and presentation skills for engaging with Senior Management, Key Stakeholders, and customers up to Board Level.

• Project Management: Ability to plan, coordinate, and manage multiple tender responses and projects under pressure, meeting critical deadlines.

• Problem-Solving: Strong capability to analyze complex requirements, identify operational challenges, and develop innovative, cost-effective solutions.

• Automation Awareness: Familiarity with current automation technologies relevant to warehouse and logistics operations.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience using industry-recognized simulation and modeling tools (e.g., CAD, CLASS, CAST, Paragon).

• Experience with transport planning and route optimization software.

• Knowledge of warehouse management systems (WMS) and their integration capabilities.

• Familiarity with Lean or Six Sigma methodologies for process improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on advanced Excel skills and the mention of specific modeling tools (CAD, CLASS, CAST, Paragon) indicates a need for deep analytical capabilities beyond basic spreadsheet use. The "commercial awareness" and "profit & loss" requirements highlight the financial acumen expected, aligning with revenue-generating operations roles.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case Studies of Successful Solutions: Detailed examples of past tender responses and implemented solutions, showcasing the design process, challenges overcome, and quantifiable business outcomes (e.g., cost savings, efficiency gains, service improvements).

• Financial Modeling Examples: Demonstrations of complex financial models created to support tender bids, including P&L projections, resource costings, and ROI calculations.

• Process Mapping & Optimization: Visual representations of designed warehouse and transport processes, highlighting improvements made from baseline operational states.

• Data Analysis & Reporting Samples: Examples of how data was analyzed to inform solution design, including customer requirement analysis and operational performance assessments.

• Presentation Materials: Samples of client-facing presentations developed for tender proposals, demonstrating clarity, impact, and strategic communication.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to document the entire solution design lifecycle, from initial customer engagement and requirement analysis through to final solution proposal and handover.

• Proficiency in creating clear, concise, and comprehensive tender response documentation that accurately reflects the designed solution and its commercial viability.

• Experience in developing business cases and justification documents for proposed operational changes and technology investments.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Solutions Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just list achievements but demonstrate the process of solution design, from data analysis and problem identification to model building and strategic proposal. The ability to articulate the ROI and commercial impact of designed solutions will be a key differentiator.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated £55,000 - £75,000 per annum, depending on experience and proven track record.

Benefits:

• Annual Leave: Competitive entitlement of 25 days plus bank holidays.

• Company Bonus: Performance-based bonus scheme for achieving company goals.

• Private Medical Cover: Comprehensive cover provided by Bupa.

• Pension Scheme: Generous scheme with 5% employee and 8% employer contribution.

• Life Assurance: 4x annual salary coverage.

• Company Car or Car Allowance: Provided based on business needs.

• Wellness Support: 24/7 confidential Employee Assistance Programme offering counselling and legal information.

• Eye Care Vouchers: Discounts on eye tests and prescription glasses.

• Reward & Recognition: Schemes for employee achievements, including Employee of the Month/Year and long service awards.

• Everyday Discounts: Access to a benefit platform with over 50 retailer discounts.

Working Hours:

• Monday to Friday, 40-hour week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is a professional estimate for a UK-based Solutions Design Manager with the described responsibilities and experience level. The provided benefits package is extensive and competitive, reflecting a commitment to employee well-being and recognition, which is attractive for operations professionals seeking long-term stability.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Logistics & Supply Chain (specifically Third-Party Logistics - 3PL) within the FMCG sector.

Company Size: Culina Group is a large organization, with Great Bear operating as a significant part of it. This implies a robust organizational structure, established processes, and opportunities for significant impact.

Founded: Culina Group was founded in 2004. Great Bear Distribution was acquired by Culina Group in 2016. This history suggests a company with established roots that is also actively growing and integrating acquisitions.

Team Structure:

• The Solutions Design Manager reports to the Senior Solutions Development Manager within the Business Development function.

• This role requires extensive collaboration with Regional Operations Directors, site-level operations teams, finance, IT, HR, and facilities management.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on analyzing customer data, operational metrics, and financial information to inform solution design and business case development.

• Customer-Centric Approach: Direct communication and engagement with customers throughout the tender process to understand and meet their specific requirements.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: A methodology that relies heavily on leveraging expertise from various departments to build comprehensive and feasible solutions.

• Best Practice Integration: Commitment to incorporating industry best practices in warehouse and transport operations, as well as exploring innovative automation opportunities.

Company Website: https://www.culina.co.uk/ (Culina Group)

📝 Enhancement Note: Culina Group's focus on a "winning culture" and employee empowerment suggests an environment that values proactive contributions and a collaborative spirit. As part of a larger group, the solutions design function likely plays a critical role in driving growth and operational efficiency across diverse client portfolios.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-to-senior level, requiring significant autonomy and expertise. It's a step beyond an analyst role and a precursor to senior leadership within Business Development or Operations Strategy.

Reporting Structure: Reports to the Senior Solutions Development Manager, indicating a clear line of progression and mentorship within the Business Development function. The role also acts as a lead for project teams, requiring influence over peers and operational staff.

Operations Impact: The Solutions Design Manager has a direct and significant impact on the company's revenue growth by securing new contracts. The quality and competitiveness of the solutions designed directly influence the company's ability to win tenders and expand its market share. Furthermore, well-designed solutions lead to more efficient and profitable operations, contributing to long-term financial health.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Progression: Potential to advance to Senior Solutions Development Manager, Head of Solutions Design, or even Director-level roles within Business Development or Operations.

• Specialization: Opportunities to develop deep expertise in specific areas such as automation integration, complex network design, or particular industry verticals (e.g., temperature-controlled logistics).

• Cross-Functional Moves: The broad exposure gained can lead to opportunities in broader operational management, strategic planning, or commercial roles within the wider Culina Group.

• Continuous Learning: Encouragement to maintain industry knowledge through professional bodies and training, fostering ongoing skill development and career relevance.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear pathway for career advancement within a large, growing logistics organization. The blend of strategic thinking, analytical rigor, and customer interaction provides a strong foundation for future leadership roles in operations or business development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at one of Great Bear's depots in the Midlands or North area, suggesting a dynamic, operational office environment. While there will be office-based work for analysis and presentation development, it is situated within a logistics hub.

Office Location(s):

• Primary locations mentioned are within the Midlands or North area of England. Specific depots are not listed but include Desborough and Stretton Green Distribution Park, Warrington.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role necessitates close collaboration with operations teams on-site, finance, IT, and business development colleagues. This suggests a team-oriented workspace where open communication is key.

• Tools & Technology: Access to necessary IT infrastructure, including advanced Microsoft Office suite, and potentially specialized modeling/simulation software.

• Operational Immersion: Working within or near operational depots provides direct exposure to the realities of warehouse and transport activities, informing practical solution design.

Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour week, Monday to Friday. While structured, the nature of tender deadlines may occasionally require flexibility or extended hours to meet critical project milestones. The company culture emphasizes employee well-being, suggesting a balance will be sought.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be comfortable with a role that is primarily office-based but requires regular travel and interaction within an operational logistics environment. The ability to adapt to different site contexts and collaborate effectively with diverse teams is essential.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruitment team will review applications and CVs against the core requirements.

• First Interview: Likely with the Senior Solutions Development Manager, focusing on experience, technical skills (Excel, modeling), and understanding of logistics operations. Expect questions about past tender experiences and problem-solving approaches.

• Technical Assessment/Case Study: A potential exercise to assess analytical capabilities, financial modeling skills, or the ability to quickly analyze a logistics scenario and propose a solution. This could involve a presentation of findings.

• Second Interview: May involve senior management or cross-functional stakeholders (e.g., Operations Director, Finance Manager) to assess strategic thinking, communication, and cultural fit.

• Final Offer: Subject to satisfactory references and background checks.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Impact: For each case study, clearly articulate the problem, your proposed solution, the implementation, and the quantifiable results (e.g., % cost reduction, % throughput increase, lead time reduction).

• Showcase Process: Detail your methodology for analyzing requirements, designing solutions, building models, and collaborating with teams.

• Highlight Excel Proficiency: Be prepared to discuss your advanced Excel techniques and how you used them to solve specific problems or build complex models. If possible, provide anonymized examples.

• Demonstrate Commercial Acumen: Explain how your solutions directly contributed to winning tenders or improved profitability.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize experience relevant to FMCG logistics, warehouse operations, and transport planning.

Challenge Preparation:

• Excel Mastery: Brush up on advanced Excel functions, macros, pivot tables, and data linking. Practice building cost models and P&L statements.

• Logistics Scenarios: Consider common challenges in warehouse operations (e.g., space utilization, labor efficiency, peak season management) and transport (e.g., route optimization, fleet utilization, last-mile delivery).

• Tender Response Structure: Familiarize yourself with the typical components of a logistics tender response and how to present a compelling case.

• Company Research: Understand Culina Group's services, client base, and recent news. Be prepared to discuss how your skills align with their strategic objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating tangible results and a clear understanding of the solution design process is paramount. Candidates should be ready to discuss their technical proficiency in Excel and their ability to translate complex operational scenarios into profitable business solutions.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Excel is non-negotiable. Word and PowerPoint are essential for documentation and presentations.

• Modeling & Simulation Software: While not essential, experience with tools like CAD (for layouts), CLASS, CAST, or Paragon (for transport planning/simulation) would be highly advantageous.

• Data Analysis & Visualization Tools: Familiarity with tools that can help process and present data effectively, potentially including BI tools like Power BI or Tableau, or even advanced features within Excel.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Tools for analyzing operational data (e.g., WMS data, TMS data, productivity reports) to identify trends, bottlenecks, and opportunities for improvement.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly managing CRM/automation systems, understanding how solutions integrate with existing systems (e.g., WMS, TMS, ERP) and how automation can be leveraged is key. Experience with implementing or designing solutions that incorporate automation technologies is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirement is advanced Excel. However, exposure to specialized logistics modeling and simulation software significantly strengthens a candidate's profile, indicating a deeper technical capability in solution design and optimization.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A strong commitment to understanding and exceeding customer expectations through well-designed and efficient logistics solutions.

• Excellence & Continuous Improvement: A drive for high performance, consistently seeking ways to optimize processes, reduce costs, and enhance service levels.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing the input and expertise of colleagues across different departments to achieve shared goals.

• Innovation: An openness to exploring and implementing new technologies and methodologies, particularly in automation, to stay ahead in the industry.

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

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role thrives on seamless collaboration with operations, finance, IT, and commercial teams, requiring strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport across diverse functions.

• Proactive Communication: Regularly engaging with stakeholders to provide updates, gather input, and ensure alignment throughout the tender and design process.

• Solution-Oriented Problem Solving: A collaborative approach to tackling challenges, encouraging input from all relevant parties to find the most effective solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "winning team" culture at Culina Group suggests an environment that rewards high performance, teamwork, and a proactive, customer-centric approach. Candidates who can demonstrate these values will likely integrate well.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Cost vs. Service: Designing solutions that are both commercially competitive and meet high customer service level agreements (SLAs) in a demanding FMCG market.

• Data Complexity & Availability: Working with potentially disparate or incomplete data from clients, requiring strong data cleansing and analytical skills to build accurate models.

• Managing Stakeholder Expectations: Aligning the needs and expectations of internal departments (operations, finance, IT) with customer demands throughout the tender process.

• Rapidly Evolving Technology: Keeping pace with advancements in automation, WMS, TMS, and other logistics technologies to ensure solutions remain cutting-edge.

• Time Pressure: Meeting tight deadlines for tender submissions while ensuring the quality and accuracy of the proposed solutions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Formal Training: Access to training programs for advanced Excel, modeling tools, and potentially project management methodologies.

• Industry Exposure: Opportunities to attend industry events, conferences (e.g., Intralogistics, transport conferences), and engage with professional bodies like CILT to stay abreast of trends.

• Mentorship: Learning from experienced senior managers within the Business Development and Operations functions.

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Working on a variety of tender opportunities for different clients and operational complexities, broadening skill sets and experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges that are also potent growth opportunities. Successfully navigating these complexities will build resilience, strategic thinking, and deep operational and commercial expertise, preparing individuals for senior leadership roles.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex logistics solution you designed for a tender. What were the key challenges, how did you overcome them, and what was the commercial outcome?" (Focus on your process, problem-solving, and quantifiable results.)

• "How do you approach analyzing a client's operational data to identify potential cost savings or service improvements?" (Highlight your analytical methodology and data interpretation skills.)

• "Walk me through your process for building a financial model for a new warehouse operation, including key assumptions and variables." (Be prepared to discuss Excel techniques and P&L elements.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Culina Group and the FMCG logistics sector?" (Show you've done your research.)

• "How do you align your solutions with a company's culture and values, particularly concerning efficiency and customer service?" (Connect your approach to their stated values.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, clearly define the problem, your analytical approach, the solution designed, the implementation, and the measurable impact (ROI, efficiency gains, client satisfaction).

• Visual Aids: Use clear, concise slides or documents. For financial models, highlight key drivers and outputs. For process designs, use flowcharts or diagrams.

• Quantify Everything: Whenever possible, use numbers and percentages to demonstrate the value of your work.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific Excel functions used, assumptions made, and alternative solutions considered.

• Showcase Collaboration: Briefly mention how you involved other teams and stakeholders in your process.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a candidate who can not only design solutions but also articulate their value proposition compellingly, both internally and externally. Demonstrating a blend of analytical rigor, commercial sense, and strong communication skills is key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on SmartRecruiters.

• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a concise portfolio showcasing 2-3 key solutions design projects. Focus on projects with quantifiable results in warehouse or transport optimization, ideally within FMCG or similar sectors. Ensure it highlights your advanced Excel capabilities and commercial impact.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in logistics solutions design, tender management, financial modeling, and cross-functional collaboration. Use keywords from the job description such as "solutions design," "tender management," "logistics," "commercial awareness," "financial modeling," and "Microsoft Excel."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Be ready to walk through your portfolio projects in detail and answer technical questions on Excel and logistics principles.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Culina Group, Great Bear Distribution, and the UK logistics market. Understand their client base, service offerings, and any recent news or strategic initiatives. This will enable you to tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

⚠️ 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.