Solutions Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Solutions Design Manager

Company: Culina Group (Great Bear)

Location: Desborough, England, United Kingdom (with potential for other Great Bear depots in the Midlands or North area)

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Operations / Supply Chain / Logistics Solutions Design

Date Posted: 2026-04-07

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

Remote Status: Primarily On-site, with travel required

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end solution design for tender responses within the UK third-party logistics (3PL) sector, focusing on warehouse and transport operations.

• Develop commercially competitive and operationally sound solutions by analyzing customer requirements, market best practices, and internal capabilities.

• Collaborate extensively with internal stakeholders (Operations Directors, specialist functions) and external clients throughout the tender and implementation lifecycle.

• Leverage advanced analytical and financial modeling skills to build robust cost models, P&L budgets, and risk assessments for proposed solutions.

• Drive innovation by identifying and evaluating suitable automation opportunities to enhance operational efficiency and client value.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Solutions Design Manager within the Business Development function, indicating a strategic focus on crafting new business proposals. The responsibilities suggest a blend of technical operations knowledge, commercial acumen, and client-facing skills, typical of a senior operations specialist involved in growth initiatives. The emphasis on "commercially competitive solutions" and "profit and loss budgets" points towards a significant impact on the company's revenue generation and profitability.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Directly engage with prospective and existing customers throughout all tender phases, ensuring clear understanding and communication of requirements.

• Conduct thorough analysis of tender documents, customer data, and business development opportunities to assess suitability and provide executive summaries and recommendations.

• Plan, coordinate, and manage complex project and tender responses, ensuring alignment with Great Bear's operational capabilities and strategic objectives.

• Design comprehensive warehouse and transport solutions, incorporating best practices in warehouse processes, layouts, equipment selection, vehicle routing, shift planning, IT systems, and management structures.

• Develop and execute detailed resource models (personnel, equipment, property, IT, transport) to inform financial modeling and P&L projections.

• Manage and procure sub-contracted services where necessary to fulfill tender scope requirements.

• Prepare detailed profit and loss budgets in close collaboration with finance teams, ensuring accuracy and commercial viability.

• Provide rigorous financial and operational comparisons for alternative solution designs, clearly articulating risks and benefits.

• Develop compelling tender response documentation, including detailed proposals and persuasive presentations for senior management and client stakeholders.

• Contribute to the development of company marketing materials, showcasing capabilities and successful solutions.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry developments, best practices, and emerging technologies in logistics and supply chain management, potentially through professional body membership (e.g., CILT) and industry event participation.

• Mentor and support other members of the business development and solutions design team to foster skill development and knowledge sharing.

• Provide critical support during the implementation phase of new contracts, ensuring a smooth transition from design to operational reality.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a requirement for end-to-end ownership of the solution design process, from initial client engagement and data analysis through to detailed operational and financial modeling, proposal creation, and implementation support. The role demands a proactive approach to identifying operational efficiencies and potential cost savings, directly influencing the commercial success of new business wins.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field is typically expected. A Master's degree or relevant professional certifications (e.g., CILT) would be advantageous.

Experience:

• A proven track record of at least 5-10 years in a logistics solutions design role, with direct commercial accountability.

• Operational experience within the third-party logistics (3PL) or FMCG sectors is highly advantageous.

• Demonstrated experience in leading complex tender processes and delivering high-quality, successful outcomes.

Required Skills:

• Deep understanding of the UK third-party logistics (3PL) sector, including commercial awareness and market dynamics.

• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and translate it into actionable solutions.

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel (macros, pivot tables, data links, VLOOKUPs, complex data management).

• Strong grasp of warehouse processes, layouts, equipment, transport planning, IT systems, and operational best practices.

• Comprehensive knowledge of commercial warehouse rates and profit & loss (P&L) management.

• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to confidently engage with senior management, key stakeholders, and customers up to Board Level.

• Proven ability to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities, and meet critical deadlines.

Preferred Skills:

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

• Familiarity with project management methodologies and tools.

• Knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, or other process improvement methodologies.

• Experience in developing company marketing materials.

• Mentorship or team leadership experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on advanced Excel skills and familiarity with specific logistics modeling tools (even if advantageous rather than mandatory) indicates a need for strong quantitative and technical capabilities. The requirement to communicate at Board Level underscores the importance of strong business acumen and persuasive communication skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrable examples of successful warehouse and transport solution designs, showcasing innovative approaches and operational efficiency.

• Case studies detailing the process of analyzing customer requirements and translating them into robust, commercially viable proposals.

• Evidence of financial modeling and P&L development capabilities, including detailed cost breakdowns and risk assessments.

• Documentation illustrating the design of warehouse layouts, process flows, and resource allocation for complex logistics operations.

Process Documentation:

• Portfolio items should clearly articulate the process followed for solution design, from initial tender analysis to final proposal submission.

• Highlight the methodologies used for data analysis, financial modeling, and risk assessment.

• Showcase the steps taken to collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to refine and validate solutions.

• Include examples of how proposed solutions were presented and defended to clients and senior management.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Solutions Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just list projects but detail the process of solution design, the tools used (especially Excel and any modeling software), the challenges overcome, and the measurable outcomes (cost savings, efficiency gains, risk mitigation). Candidates should be prepared to walk through a complex solution design case study in detail.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the seniority of the role (Solutions Design Manager), the required experience (5-10 years), and the UK logistics sector, a competitive salary range is expected. For a Midlands/North England location, this could typically fall between £50,000 - £75,000 per annum, depending on specific experience, qualifications, and the precise scope of responsibilities.

Benefits:

• Competitive Holiday Entitlement: 25 days plus bank holidays.

• Company Bonus Scheme: Performance-related bonus for achieving company goals.

• Private Medical Cover: Via Bupa, offering choice, flexibility, and timely access to care.

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

• Life Assurance: 4x annual salary coverage.

• Company Car or Car Allowance: Provided based on business need, typical for roles requiring significant travel.

• Wellness Support: 24/7 confidential Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for counselling and legal information.

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

• Reward & Recognition Programs: Employee of the Month/Year, special recognition, and long service awards.

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

Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 40-hour week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in the UK logistics sector and the provided experience level. The extensive list of benefits, particularly the company car/allowance and bonus scheme, highlights the company's investment in its employees and the demands of a role that involves significant client interaction and travel.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Logistics and Supply Chain Management, specifically within the FMCG distribution sector. Culina Group is a prominent player, with Great Bear being a key part of its operations.

Company Size: Culina Group is a large organization, with Great Bear likely contributing significantly to its workforce and operational footprint. This implies a structured environment with established processes but also opportunities for impact.

Founded: Culina Group was founded in 2005, indicating a relatively modern and growth-oriented company with a strong market presence.

Team Structure:

• This role reports to the Senior Solutions Development Manager, indicating a clear hierarchy within the Business Development function.

• The Solutions Design Manager will work closely with Regional Operations Directors, operations teams at various depots, and specialist functions across the business (e.g., IT, HR, Finance).

Methodology:

• A data-driven approach is paramount, involving the analysis of customer data, operational metrics, and financial information to build robust solutions.

• Workflow planning and optimization strategies are central to designing efficient and cost-effective warehouse and transport operations.

• Automation and efficiency practices are encouraged, reflecting a forward-thinking approach to logistics challenges.

Company Website: https://www.culina.co.uk/ (Culina Group) and likely a dedicated site for Great Bear.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture at Culina Group, as described, emphasizes a "winning culture" that values, challenges, and inspires employees. The "site-level empowered culture" within Great Bear suggests a decentralized approach to operational execution, which the Solutions Design Manager must understand and integrate into their designs.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role sits at a mid-to-senior management level, requiring significant expertise in logistics solutions design and commercial strategy. It's a critical position within the Business Development function, directly contributing to the company's growth.

Reporting Structure: The Solutions Design Manager reports to the Senior Solutions Development Manager, indicating a clear career progression path within the solutions design and business development domain. This structure allows for mentorship and guidance from a more experienced leader.

Operations Impact: The Solutions Design Manager has a direct and substantial impact on the company's revenue and profitability by securing new business through compelling and cost-effective solutions. Their designs influence operational efficiency, client satisfaction, and the overall competitive positioning of Culina Group.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of logistics solutions design, such as automation, advanced analytics, or particular industry verticals.

• Leadership: Progress to a Senior Solutions Development Manager or Head of Solutions Design role, taking on greater strategic responsibility and team leadership.

• Cross-Functional Moves: Transition into senior operational management roles, leveraging a strong understanding of business development and solution design to lead operational divisions.

• Industry Expertise: Become a recognized expert in logistics solutions by staying abreast of industry trends, technologies, and best practices, potentially through professional bodies and conferences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear pathway for career advancement within a large, established logistics group. Success in this position can lead to greater strategic influence, team leadership, and broader operational responsibility, making it an attractive opportunity for ambitious operations professionals.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily office-based, but with the flexibility to be based at various Great Bear depots across the Midlands or North of England. This suggests a hybrid approach where core office-based work is complemented by site visits and client meetings.

Office Location(s): Potential locations include various Great Bear depots in the Midlands or North of England, along with the specified address in Desborough, NN14 2WB. Travel between sites and to client locations is a requirement.

Workspace Context:

• The work environment is likely to be dynamic and collaborative, requiring close interaction with operations teams, finance, IT, and business development colleagues.

• Access to standard office technology, analytical software (especially advanced Excel), and potentially specialized modeling tools will be provided.

• Regular opportunities for cross-functional collaboration and problem-solving are expected.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour week, Monday to Friday, is specified. However, the nature of tender responses and client deadlines may occasionally require flexibility and working beyond standard hours to meet critical deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "based at any of our Great Bear depots" aspect suggests a degree of flexibility in work location within a defined geographical area, appealing to candidates who might prefer to be closer to specific operational sites. The requirement for travel indicates a need for adaptability and efficient time management.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of CV and application, focusing on demonstrable experience in logistics solutions design, commercial acumen, and key technical skills (e.g., Excel proficiency).

• First Interview: Likely with the Senior Solutions Development Manager to assess technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, understanding of the logistics sector, and cultural fit. A discussion around previous solutions design projects and challenges is probable.

• Second Interview/Assessment: May involve a presentation of a case study or a detailed walk-through of a past project from their portfolio. This stage will likely assess analytical skills, presentation capabilities, financial modeling understanding, and stakeholder management approach.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership or department heads to confirm strategic alignment, leadership potential, and suitability for the role and company culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type (e.g., warehouse solutions, transport solutions) or by the stage of the solution design process.

• Detail is Key: For each project, clearly outline the client's challenge, your role, the solution designed, the methodologies used (data analysis, modeling, tools), the challenges encountered, and the quantifiable results achieved (e.g., cost savings, efficiency improvements, ROI).

• Showcase Excel Mastery: Include examples or descriptions of complex Excel models, macros, or data analysis techniques you've employed.

• Automation Focus: Highlight instances where you've identified or implemented automation technologies.

• Presentation Readiness: Be prepared to present a detailed case study from your portfolio, simulating a client proposal or internal business case. Focus on clarity, conciseness, and the impact of your design.

Challenge Preparation:

• Expect a case study or a problem-solving exercise that requires you to design a logistics solution for a hypothetical client scenario.

• Practice developing a structured approach to analyzing the problem, identifying key variables, proposing solutions, and estimating resources and costs.

• Be ready to discuss your assumptions, potential risks, and mitigation strategies.

• Prepare to articulate your thought process clearly and confidently, demonstrating your analytical and strategic thinking skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and case study presentation strongly suggests that candidates will need to actively demonstrate their capabilities rather than just stating them. A well-prepared portfolio is a critical differentiator for this role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Excel is explicitly required, including macros, pivot tables, data links, and lookups for complex data management and financial modeling. PowerPoint will be essential for presentations.

• Logistics Modeling Software (Advantageous): Experience with industry-recognized tools such as CAD (for layout design), CLASS, CAST, or Paragon (for transport planning and optimization) would be a significant advantage.

• Project Management Software: While not explicitly mentioned, familiarity with tools like Microsoft Project, Asana, or Trello would be beneficial for managing tender timelines and project coordination.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Beyond Excel, familiarity with business intelligence tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) might be helpful for visualizing data and creating reports, though not explicitly stated as a requirement.

• CRM Systems: Understanding how CRM data can inform solution design and customer engagement is valuable.

CRM & Automation:

• Automation Technologies: A forward-thinking understanding of automation opportunities in warehousing and logistics is required. This could include knowledge of automated guided vehicles (AGVs), robotics, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) with automation modules, and advanced planning systems.

• WMS/TMS Knowledge: Familiarity with the capabilities and integration points of Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and Transport Management Systems (TMS) is crucial for designing effective solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of advanced Excel functionalities points to a heavy reliance on this tool for financial and operational modeling. While specialized modeling tools are listed as advantageous, demonstrating strong Excel skills is non-negotiable and should be a focus for candidates.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Centricity: A strong focus on understanding and meeting customer requirements is essential, as highlighted by direct communication throughout the tender process.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Solutions must be grounded in thorough analysis of data, operational metrics, and financial projections.

• Innovation & Efficiency: A proactive approach to identifying and implementing process improvements, including automation, to drive efficiency and competitive advantage.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: The ability to work effectively with diverse internal teams and external stakeholders is critical for successful solution design and implementation.

• Commercial Acumen: A keen understanding of profitability, cost management, and market competitiveness is fundamental to designing viable business solutions.

Collaboration Style:

• The role requires a highly collaborative approach, acting as a bridge between sales/business development, operations, finance, and IT.

• Effective communication and the ability to influence stakeholders at various levels are key.

• A consultative style, working with teams to find the best solutions rather than dictating them, will be most effective.

• Openness to feedback and iterative refinement of designs is important, especially when working with operations teams who have deep on-the-ground knowledge.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "winning team" and "team culture thrives" suggests a positive, high-performance environment. Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of how their role contributes to the broader success of the business and how they foster strong working relationships.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Commercial Viability with Operational Feasibility: Designing solutions that are both cost-effective for the client and profitable for Culina Group, while also being practical to implement and run.

• Managing Complex Stakeholder Needs: Effectively navigating the diverse requirements and expectations of internal departments, senior management, and external clients.

• Keeping Pace with Industry Evolution: Continuously learning about new technologies, automation, and best practices in a rapidly changing logistics landscape.

• Data Integrity and Availability: Ensuring that the data used for analysis and modeling is accurate, complete, and readily accessible.

• Time Pressure: Working within tight deadlines inherent in tender processes, often requiring rapid analysis and solution development.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Logistics Modeling: Opportunities to gain expertise in specialized simulation and modeling tools.

• Automation Technologies: Deepen knowledge of current and emerging automation solutions for warehousing and transport.

• Commercial Negotiation & Strategy: Develop skills in commercial strategy, pricing, and negotiation through direct involvement in tender processes.

• Leadership Development: Potential for mentorship from senior leaders and opportunities to lead larger, more complex projects or teams.

• Industry Engagement: Opportunities to attend industry events, join professional bodies (like CILT), and stay at the forefront of logistics innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is ideal for someone who thrives on complex challenges and enjoys continuous learning. The company's commitment to employee development suggests that support will be provided for acquiring new skills and advancing within the operations and logistics domain.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex logistics solution you designed for a new business win. What were the key drivers, your process, the challenges, and the quantifiable outcomes?" (Focus on structure, data, modeling, and impact).

• "How do you approach balancing aggressive commercial targets with operational realities when designing a warehouse solution?" (Assess understanding of trade-offs and practicality).

• "Walk me through your process for analyzing a customer's tender document and identifying critical requirements for a logistics solution." (Demonstrate analytical rigor and attention to detail).

• "How would you leverage automation technologies in a solution for a high-volume FMCG distribution centre?" (Showcase forward-thinking and industry awareness).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Culina Group and Great Bear's operations in the UK logistics market?" (Research the company's services, clients, and recent news).

• "How do you see your role contributing to Culina Group's 'winning culture' and commitment to customer-centricity?" (Align your values with the company's stated culture).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select a Strong Case Study: Choose a project that best showcases your end-to-end solution design capabilities, including complex analysis, financial modeling, and successful outcomes.

• Tell a Story: Structure your presentation like a narrative: the client's problem, your approach, the solution, the challenges, and the results.

• Quantify Everything: Use specific numbers, percentages, and financial metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work.

• Highlight Your Process: Clearly explain the steps you took, the tools you used (especially Excel), and your decision-making rationale.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your assumptions, methodologies, and calculations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be rigorous, testing both technical proficiency and strategic thinking. Candidates should prepare thoroughly by reviewing their past projects, understanding the company's business, and practicing their presentation skills, especially for the portfolio review.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the SmartRecruiters platform.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight specific achievements in logistics solutions design, tender management, financial modeling, and client engagement, using keywords from the job description. Prepare a concise portfolio that showcases 2-3 key projects with detailed process descriptions and quantifiable results.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your experience with advanced Microsoft Excel, any logistics modeling software, and your track record in the UK 3PL sector. Quantify achievements wherever possible (e.g., "Designed a solution that reduced operational costs by X%").

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your solutions design process and presenting a case study from your portfolio. Be ready to discuss your approach to commercial analysis, operational planning, and stakeholder management. Research Culina Group and Great Bear thoroughly.

• Company Research: Understand Culina Group's market position, key services, and typical client base. Familiarize yourself with the company's stated values and culture to demonstrate alignment during the interview process.

⚠️ 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.