Solution Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Solution Design Manager

Company: CEVA Logistics (part of CMA CGM Group)

Location: Waalwijk, North Brabant, Netherlands

Job Type: Full-time / Part-time (32-40 hours)

Category: Revenue Operations / Sales Operations / GTM Strategy (Solution Design focus)

Date Posted: April 23, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (2-5 years implied)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and develop innovative, scalable, and efficient logistics solutions within the Device Lifecycle Services (DLS) business unit, focusing on translating complex client needs into actionable operational frameworks.

• Act as a key strategic partner to Business Development teams, providing essential support during commercial bid and sales cycles through robust solution design and compelling business cases.

• Leverage advanced data analysis and modeling capabilities to create accurate cost models and financial justifications for proposed logistics solutions, directly influencing revenue generation and client acquisition.

• Present and defend complex logistical concepts, process flows, and strategic design choices to both external clients and internal stakeholders, demonstrating strong communication and persuasive skills.

• Drive continuous improvement and innovation within existing DLS offerings by actively monitoring industry trends, technological advancements, and best practices in supply chain and logistics.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Solution Design Manager," the core responsibilities and emphasis on commercial bid support, business cases, and cost models place this role firmly within the GTM and Sales Operations spectrum, with a strong emphasis on the "pre-sales" technical and strategic design phase that directly impacts revenue. The experience level is inferred as mid-senior due to the "Manager" title and the expectation of independent solution design and client-facing activities.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design innovative logistical concepts, including detailed process flows and operational blueprints, specifically for Device Lifecycle Services (DLS) such as inbound logistics, configuration, repair, returns, financing, and redeployments.

• Translate intricate client requirements and business challenges into scalable, cost-effective, and compelling logistics solutions that align with CEVA Logistics' DLS value proposition.

• Develop and rigorously analyze comprehensive cost models and business cases to support sales and tender processes, quantifying the value and ROI of proposed solutions for prospective clients.

• Present and articulate detailed solution designs, including rationale for design choices, trade-offs, and operational implications, to clients and internal stakeholders with clarity and conviction.

• Provide expert content and technical support to Business Development teams throughout the entire bid and sales lifecycle, ensuring accurate and persuasive proposal development.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including IT, Finance, Operations Excellence, and external partners to ensure seamless integration and feasibility of designed solutions.

• Contribute to the ongoing optimization, enhancement, and innovation of existing DLS solutions for current clients, driving efficiency and value.

• Proactively research and stay abreast of emerging trends, technological advancements, and innovations within the logistics and broader supply chain industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic design, financial modeling, and client-facing communication, typical of a Solution Designer or Sales Engineer within a logistics context. The emphasis on DLS specific services indicates a need for specialized industry knowledge.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field. Master's degree is a plus.

Experience: Minimum 3 years of progressive experience in Solution Design, Logistics Engineering, Supply Chain Planning, or a comparable role within a warehousing or complex supply chain environment. Proven track record in commercial bid and sales support is essential.

Required Skills:

• Minimum 3 years of experience in Solution Design, Logistics Engineering, or a comparable role within a warehouse or supply chain environment.

• Demonstrable experience with commercial bid and sales engagement processes.

• Strong analytical and conceptual thinking capabilities to dissect complex problems and formulate strategic solutions.

• Proficiency in data analysis and modeling tools, such as Qlik Sense or similar platforms, for developing cost models and business cases.

• Excellent command of the English language, both written and verbal, for effective client and stakeholder communication.

• Ability to work flexibly, maintain structured workflows, and perform effectively under pressure and tight deadlines.

Preferred Skills:

• Fluency in Dutch language is a significant advantage.

• Experience with specific Device Lifecycle Services (DLS) operations (e.g., repair, returns, configuration, refurbishment).

• Familiarity with CRM systems and sales enablement tools.

• Project management skills for coordinating solution development activities.

• Knowledge of automation technologies and their application in logistics.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "at least 3 years of experience" combined with the "Manager" title suggests a candidate who can operate independently and lead solution design efforts, making the 2-5 year range a reasonable interpretation for the implied mid-senior level.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 detailed case studies demonstrating the design of complex logistics solutions, preferably within supply chain, warehousing, or DLS contexts.

• For each case study, clearly articulate the client's challenge, your proposed solution, the design process, and the quantifiable business impact (e.g., cost savings, efficiency gains, revenue growth).

• Include examples of cost models, business case summaries, and process flow diagrams developed for previous projects.

• Demonstrate proficiency in translating business requirements into technical or operational specifications and process designs.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of structured approach to documenting logistics processes, from initial concept to final operational handover.

• Examples of creating clear, concise, and actionable process maps and operational guidelines.

• Demonstration of how process documentation was used to drive efficiency, reduce errors, or facilitate training.

• Ability to adapt documentation standards to meet client-specific requirements or internal best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Solution Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just list past projects but demonstrate the candidate's ability to systematically design, model, and communicate logistics solutions, directly linking their work to business outcomes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: €4,158.68 - €6,021.71 per month (Gross)

Benefits:

• 8% holiday pay.

• 25 standard vacation days per year.

• Opportunity to earn up to 4 additional vacation days based on attendance.

• A competitive gross monthly salary, with initial placement dependent on experience.

• A one-year contract with the strong prospect of transitioning to a permanent employment agreement.

• Flexible working hours, empowering employees to manage their own schedules.

• Option to work from home, supporting a hybrid work model.

• Exposure to a dynamic and international working environment within a leading logistics service provider.

Working Hours: Typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility and potential for part-time arrangements (32 or 36 hours per week).

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific and stated as gross monthly. This is a significant advantage for candidates. The range is considered competitive for a Solution Design Manager role in the Netherlands, aligning with mid-senior level expectations and the cost of living in the region. This estimate considers typical compensation for specialized logistics roles in Western Europe, factoring in the specified salary band.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Logistics and Supply Chain Services, specifically focused on Device Lifecycle Services (DLS) within the broader CEVA Logistics (CMA CGM Group) network. The DLS sector requires specialized expertise in managing the end-to-end journey of electronic devices.

Company Size: CEVA Logistics is a large, international organization with over 11,000 employees across more than 30 locations in the Benelux region alone, and a global presence as part of the CMA CGM Group. This scale offers significant opportunities for diverse project work and career progression.

Founded: CEVA Logistics has a long history, evolving through mergers and acquisitions, with its roots tracing back to various logistics pioneers. Its current form as a major global player under CMA CGM signifies a commitment to innovation and expansion in the logistics sector.

Team Structure:

• The Solution Design team likely operates as a specialized unit within the commercial or operations excellence departments, supporting Business Development and Operations.

• Reporting to a higher-level manager (e.g., Head of Solution Design or Commercial Director), with close collaboration across sales, operations, IT, and finance.

Methodology:

• Data-driven approach to solution design, utilizing analytics and modeling tools to build robust business cases and cost structures.

• Emphasis on customer-centric design, translating client needs into practical and efficient logistics solutions.

• Collaborative methodology involving stakeholders from various departments to ensure comprehensive and integrated solution development.

• Continuous improvement mindset, actively seeking opportunities to optimize processes and leverage new technologies.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's industry and size are crucial context. CEVA Logistics' global reach and specialization in areas like DLS suggest a need for candidates who can navigate complex, international operations and understand niche service offerings. The emphasis on innovation and technology is also a key cultural indicator.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-senior level. A Solution Design Manager is expected to lead the design of complex logistics solutions independently, influence commercial outcomes, and mentor junior team members if applicable. It sits between a purely technical engineer and a commercial sales executive, requiring a balanced skill set.

Reporting Structure: The role reports to a senior leader within the commercial or operations excellence functions. This structure suggests direct exposure to strategic decision-making and significant influence on sales pipeline success.

Operations Impact: The Solution Design Manager directly impacts revenue by crafting compelling proposals that win new business and by optimizing existing solutions to retain and grow client accounts. Their work is foundational to the commercial success of CEVA Logistics' Device Lifecycle Services.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise within Device Lifecycle Services or expand into other specialized logistics domains.

• Leadership: Progress to a Senior Solution Design Manager, Head of Solution Design, or transition into a Business Development or Operations Management role.

• Skill Development: Enhance capabilities in advanced analytics, financial modeling, specific logistics technologies, and client relationship management.

• International Exposure: Leverage the global network of CEVA Logistics for diverse project opportunities and international career paths.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path from Solution Design Manager is typically towards more strategic leadership, broader commercial responsibility, or deeper technical specialization. The "Manager" title implies a level of autonomy and potential for team leadership or project ownership.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work model, combining office-based collaboration with remote work flexibility. This suggests a modern approach to work-life balance and trust in employees.

Office Location(s): Waalwijk, Netherlands. This location is likely a hub for logistics operations and commercial activities in the Benelux region, offering good connectivity.

Workspace Context:

• The office environment likely supports collaborative work, with meeting rooms and shared spaces for team brainstorming and client presentations.

• Access to necessary technology, including data analysis and modeling tools (like Qlik Sense), communication platforms, and potentially specialized logistics software.

• Opportunities for interaction with Business Development, Operations, and IT teams, fostering a dynamic and integrated work experience.

Work Schedule: Flexible working hours are offered, allowing individuals to manage their schedules effectively. While a full-time role is 40 hours, part-time options (32 or 36 hours) are available, indicating a focus on employee well-being and accommodating diverse needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid and flexible work arrangement is a significant perk, common in modern professional roles. It indicates a company culture that values autonomy and work-life integration, which is attractive to operations professionals who often deal with complex schedules.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A conversation with the Corporate Recruiter (Donja Beuting) to assess basic qualifications, cultural fit, and interest.

• Hiring Manager Interview: In-depth discussion with the hiring manager focusing on experience in solution design, commercial acumen, and understanding of DLS. Expect questions about past projects and problem-solving approaches.

• Technical/Case Study Interview: A potential practical assessment or case study presentation. This might involve designing a simplified logistics solution for a given scenario or analyzing a dataset to build a cost model. Prepare to walk through your portfolio.

• Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with key internal stakeholders (e.g., from Business Development, Operations, IT, Finance) to evaluate collaboration skills and the ability to integrate solutions across departments.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader to discuss strategic alignment and long-term fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 2-3 of your strongest projects that best showcase your solution design, analytical, and client-facing skills, with a preference for DLS or similar complex logistics projects.

• Structure for Impact: For each project, clearly outline: The Client's Challenge, Your Role & Responsibilities, The Solution Designed (including processes, flows, technology), The Business Case/Cost Model, and The Quantifiable Results/Impact.

• Highlight Key Skills: Explicitly demonstrate your analytical ability, conceptual thinking, data modeling proficiency (mentioning tools like Qlik Sense if applicable), and presentation skills.

• Quantify Everything: Use metrics and data to support your achievements. Focus on ROI, cost savings, efficiency improvements, or revenue impact.

• Be Ready to Discuss Trade-offs: Explain the decisions you made and why, including any compromises or alternative solutions considered.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand DLS: Research CEVA Logistics' Device Lifecycle Services offerings and common challenges in this sector (e.g., managing reverse logistics, refurbishment processes, data security).

• Practice Case Studies: Work through hypothetical logistics design problems. Focus on breaking down the problem, identifying key variables, proposing solutions, and justifying your approach with data and logic.

• Cost Modeling Basics: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach building a cost model for a logistics operation, including identifying cost drivers and assumptions.

• Presentation Skills: Practice articulating complex ideas clearly and concisely, anticipating questions, and engaging your audience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio, case studies, and business cases is critical for this role. Candidates should treat the application process as an opportunity to demonstrate their strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities through tangible examples.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Data Analysis & Modeling: Qlik Sense (specifically mentioned), or similar BI/data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI). Proficiency in Excel for financial modeling and data manipulation is also assumed.

• Process Design Software: Tools like Visio, Lucidchart, or similar for creating process flows and diagrams.

• CRM Systems: Familiarity with CRM platforms like Salesforce or Microsoft Dynamics could be beneficial for understanding sales pipelines and client data.

• Project Management Tools: Experience with tools like Asana, Jira, or Trello for managing project timelines and tasks.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Experience using analytics platforms to extract, analyze, and interpret data to inform solution design.

CRM & Automation:

• Understanding of how CRM systems support sales processes and how logistics solutions integrate with them.

• Familiarity with automation concepts in logistics, such as Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS), and their potential impact on solution design.

📝 Enhancement Note: Qlik Sense is explicitly mentioned, making it a key tool to highlight. Beyond that, the role implies a need for strong analytical and visualization tools, alongside process mapping software. Understanding of broader logistics software (WMS/TMS) is beneficial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Centricity: A strong focus on understanding and meeting client needs, translating them into effective and tailored logistics solutions.

• Innovation & Efficiency: Driving continuous improvement, embracing new technologies, and optimizing processes for greater efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

• Collaboration: Working seamlessly with cross-functional teams, fostering open communication and shared problem-solving.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizing data analytics and modeling to inform design choices, build robust business cases, and measure impact.

• Accountability & Ownership: Taking responsibility for the design and successful proposal of solutions, ensuring they are robust and deliverable.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive and communicative, engaging with stakeholders early and often to gather requirements and validate designs.

• Partnership-oriented, working alongside Business Development, Operations, and IT to co-create solutions.

• Open to feedback and constructive criticism, using it to refine designs and improve processes.

• Emphasis on clear documentation and knowledge sharing to ensure alignment across teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes a results-driven approach with a human touch. For operations roles, this translates to a focus on measurable outcomes, efficiency, and strong interpersonal skills for effective collaboration.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Complexity: Effectively simplifying highly complex client requirements and operational nuances into clear, scalable, and cost-effective logistics solutions.

• Balancing Stakeholder Needs: Navigating competing priorities and expectations from clients, sales teams, operations, and IT to arrive at optimal designs.

• Data Scarcity/Quality: Working with potentially incomplete or inconsistent data for analysis and modeling, requiring strong data validation skills.

• Pace of Change: Staying current with rapid technological advancements and evolving client demands in the dynamic logistics and DLS sectors.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Logistics Knowledge: Deepen expertise in Device Lifecycle Services and other niche supply chain areas.

• Advanced Analytics & Modeling: Enhance skills in data science, financial modeling, and advanced simulation tools.

• Commercial Acumen: Develop a stronger understanding of sales strategies, tender management, and client negotiation.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to lead larger projects, mentor junior team members, or move into management roles.

• Industry Certifications: Pursue relevant certifications in supply chain management, logistics engineering, or project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Identifying potential challenges allows candidates to prepare for them and demonstrate their problem-solving capabilities. Growth opportunities highlight the long-term potential and development pathways within CEVA Logistics.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex logistics solution you designed for a client. What were the key challenges, your approach, and the quantifiable outcomes?" (Focus on process, data, and impact).

• "How would you approach building a cost model for a new Device Lifecycle Service offering, considering variables like inbound logistics, repair turnaround time, and reverse logistics?" (Demonstrate analytical and financial modeling skills).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about CEVA Logistics' Device Lifecycle Services, and how do you see your role contributing to its growth?" (Show research and strategic alignment).

• "How do you balance the need for innovative solutions with the practical constraints of operational feasibility and cost-effectiveness?" (Address your approach to trade-offs).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame each case study as a narrative – the problem, the journey of designing the solution, and the successful resolution with measurable impact.

• Visual Aids: Use clear and concise slides with process flows, diagrams, and key data points. Avoid text-heavy slides.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly state the ROI, cost savings, efficiency gains, or revenue impact achieved. Use percentages and absolute figures where possible.

• Focus on Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions, decisions, and the skills you applied.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about your methodology, assumptions, and alternative approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparing for these types of questions, and practicing the portfolio presentation, will significantly increase a candidate's chances of success. The focus should be on demonstrating not just technical capability but also strategic thinking and commercial impact.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Solution Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the CEVA Logistics careers portal via the provided link.

• Tailor your Resume: Highlight experience in solution design, logistics engineering, commercial bid support, and data analysis. Use keywords from the job description, such as "Device Lifecycle Services," "cost modeling," "business case development," and "Qlik Sense." Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 strong case studies that showcase your ability to design logistics solutions, develop business cases, and present complex ideas. Ensure these examples clearly demonstrate your analytical skills and the business impact of your work.

• Research CEVA Logistics & DLS: Familiarize yourself with CEVA Logistics' global presence, their Device Lifecycle Services offerings, and any recent news or initiatives in the DLS sector. Understand their values and culture.

• Practice Interview Questions: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, particularly those related to solution design, commercial support, and cross-functional collaboration. Practice presenting your portfolio concisely and effectively.

⚠️ 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.