Solution Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Solution Design Manager

Company: CEVA Logistics (part of CMA CGM Group)

Location: Ashby-de-la-Zouch, England, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Operations - Solution Design & Logistics Strategy

Date Posted: 2026-08-05

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (implied by "Manager" title and responsibility scope)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the strategic design and development of innovative, end-to-end transport and supply chain solutions for key customer opportunities, driving operational excellence and customer value.

• Manage complex, multi-stage solution design projects, integrating commercial viability with operational efficiency and technical feasibility.

• Leverage advanced data analysis and modeling to identify optimization opportunities, develop robust commercial models, and accurate operational costings.

• Act as a primary interface for customer engagement on solution proposals, demonstrating technical expertise, professionalism, and strategic insight.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role of "Solution Design Manager" in a global 3PL like CEVA Logistics is inherently a strategic operations role. It bridges the gap between sales/business development and operational execution, requiring a deep understanding of logistics networks, transport management, and commercial frameworks to craft compelling and cost-effective solutions for clients. The emphasis on "innovative transport and supply chain solutions" and "operational excellence" signifies a strong focus on GTM strategy support through robust operational design.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the design of comprehensive, integrated transport and supply chain solutions for new and existing large-scale customer engagements.

• Simultaneously manage a portfolio of complex solution design projects throughout the entire sales lifecycle, from initial scoping to proposal presentation.

• Develop detailed commercial models, pricing structures (rate cards), and accurate operational costings to support compelling customer proposals and bids.

• Confidently present and articulate complex logistics solutions to diverse customer stakeholders, including senior management, emphasizing value proposition, efficiency gains, and technical expertise.

• Conduct in-depth analysis of customer operational data to identify areas for improvement, optimization, and significant cost efficiencies within their supply chains.

• Produce meticulous solution documentation, including detailed process flows, operational blueprints, and supporting materials to ensure a smooth and effective handover for implementation teams.

• Continuously research and integrate innovative technologies, automation, and process improvement methodologies to enhance the value and competitiveness of CEVA's customer solutions.

• Collaborate closely with internal departments such as Business Development, Operations, IT, and Procurement to ensure solutions are technically sound, operationally feasible, and commercially aligned.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic thinking, analytical rigor, and client-facing communication. The focus on "end-to-end transport and supply chain solutions" and managing "multiple complex solution design projects" indicates a need for strong project management and an ability to grasp diverse logistical challenges. The requirement to "develop commercial models, rate cards and operational costings" underscores the critical financial and commercial aspect of this operations role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

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

• Demonstrable experience in Solutions Design, Transport Planning, Supply Chain Management, or a related logistics operational role.

• Proven track record of managing and delivering complex projects within tight deadlines, particularly in a bid or proposal context.

• Experience in analyzing large, complex datasets to derive actionable insights and inform strategic decisions. Required Skills:

• Advanced Microsoft Excel Skills: Proficiency in data analysis, financial modeling, building complex spreadsheets, and creating accurate costings. This is a critical tool for developing commercial models and operational budgets.

• Paragon Routing & Transport Management Systems: Demonstrable experience and advanced knowledge of Paragon TMS is a key technical requirement, essential for designing and optimizing transport operations.

• Exceptional Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to dissect complex logistical challenges, identify root causes, and develop data-driven, effective solutions. A keen eye for detail is paramount.

• Solution Design Methodologies: Understanding of frameworks and best practices for designing integrated logistics and supply chain solutions.

• Commercial Acumen: Ability to understand and develop commercial models, pricing strategies, and cost-benefit analyses that support business objectives.

• Stakeholder Management & Presentation Skills: Proven ability to engage, influence, and present complex technical and commercial solutions confidently to both internal teams and external customers at various levels.

• Project Management: Strong organizational and time management skills to effectively manage multiple concurrent projects and meet strict deadlines.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with other Transport Management Systems (TMS) or Warehouse Management Systems (WMS).

• Knowledge of supply chain optimization software and techniques beyond routing.

• Familiarity with Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.

• Experience in a global 3PL or freight forwarding environment.

• Understanding of various transport modes (air, ocean, ground) and their operational nuances.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of "Paragon routing and transport management systems" is a significant technical requirement. Candidates must possess hands-on experience with this specific technology to be considered. The emphasis on "Advanced Microsoft Excel skills" highlights its central role in financial and operational modeling within this position. The required skills are directly tied to the core responsibilities of designing, costing, and presenting logistics solutions.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Solution Design Case Studies: Candidates should prepare detailed case studies showcasing their experience in designing end-to-end logistics and transport solutions for complex customer scenarios. These should highlight the problem, the designed solution, the processes involved, and the quantifiable outcomes.

• Commercial & Costing Models: Examples of commercial models, rate cards, and operational costings developed for previous projects, demonstrating an understanding of pricing strategies and financial justification for solutions.

• Process Flow Documentation: Samples of detailed process maps and flowcharts created to illustrate operational workflows, highlighting efficiency improvements and system integration points.

• Data Analysis & Optimization Examples: Demonstrations of how data was analyzed to identify operational bottlenecks, cost-saving opportunities, or efficiency gains, with clear metrics and results.

• Customer Presentation Materials: Examples of presentation slides or proposals used to pitch logistics solutions to clients, showcasing clarity, professionalism, and persuasive communication.

Process Documentation:

• Experience in creating comprehensive process documentation that clearly articulates the steps, inputs, outputs, and decision points within a logistics operation.

• Ability to document new or optimized processes in a way that facilitates seamless handover to operational teams for implementation and ongoing management.

• Proficiency in using tools and techniques for process mapping and visualization (e.g., Visio, Lucidchart) to support solution design.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Solution Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial. It serves as tangible proof of a candidate's ability to translate theoretical knowledge into practical, impactful logistics solutions. The emphasis should be on demonstrating a structured approach to problem-solving, analytical capabilities, and the ability to quantify benefits.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Solution Design Managers in the UK logistics sector, with significant experience in transport management systems and commercial modeling, the estimated salary range is likely between £55,000 - £75,000 per annum. This estimate accounts for the mid-senior level, specialist skills (Paragon TMS), and the strategic nature of the role within a large global organization like CEVA Logistics. Factors such as specific years of experience, depth of Paragon expertise, and the complexity of past projects will influence the final offer. Benefits:

• Competitive Annual Leave: Generous entitlement to paid time off.

• Holiday Buy Scheme: Opportunity to purchase additional annual leave days.

• Pension Scheme: Contribution towards retirement savings.

• Life Assurance: Financial protection for beneficiaries.

• Employee Benefits Platform: Access to a portal offering various discounts and perks.

• Gym Membership Discounts: Reduced rates for fitness facilities.

• Retail Discounts: Savings on purchases from a wide range of retailers.

• Travel Discounts: Opportunities to save on travel bookings.

• Hospitality Discounts: Special offers at various hospitality establishments.

Working Hours:

• The standard working hours are likely to be around 40 hours per week, typical for a full-time managerial role in the UK. While the role is based on-site, there may be an expectation for flexibility to meet project deadlines or customer demands, which could occasionally involve working beyond standard hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimation is based on publicly available data for similar roles in the UK, considering the specified location and the seniority implied by the "Manager" title. The benefits listed are directly extracted from the job description and are standard for many corporate roles, with specific emphasis on savings and discounts through the employee platform.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Logistics and Supply Chain Management (specifically within Freight Forwarding and Contract Logistics). CEVA Logistics is a major player in the global 3PL market, operating as a subsidiary of the CMA CGM Group, a world leader in shipping and logistics. This industry context means a fast-paced, global, and highly competitive environment focused on efficiency, reliability, and customer service.

Company Size: CEVA Logistics operates globally with over 110,000 employees across 1,500 sites in 170+ countries. This indicates a large, established organization with significant resources, complex internal structures, and a broad international reach. For operations professionals, this means opportunities for exposure to diverse markets and large-scale operations, but also potentially more structured processes and reporting lines.

Founded: CEVA Logistics has a history tracing back to the late 19th century through its predecessor companies, with the current CEVA Logistics brand formed in 2007. Being part of the CMA CGM Group (founded in 1978) provides a strong heritage and significant backing. This legacy suggests a company with deep industry knowledge, established operational practices, and a long-term strategic vision.

Team Structure:

• The Solution Design team is likely structured to support the Business Development function, working closely with sales teams to craft proposals for new and existing clients.

• Team members will typically report to a Head of Solution Design or a Director of Operations/Commercial Strategy.

• Close collaboration is expected with various internal departments, including Sales, Operations (ground, air, ocean, contract logistics), IT, Procurement, and Finance, to ensure holistic and viable solution development. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Solutions are developed based on thorough analysis of customer data, operational metrics, and market trends.

• Customer-Centric Approach: Focus on understanding and addressing specific customer needs and challenges to deliver tailored value.

• Process Optimization: Continuous identification and implementation of improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and increase service quality.

• Technology Integration: Leveraging logistics technology, including TMS and potentially WMS, automation, and data analytics tools, to build effective solutions.

Company Website: https://www.cevalogistics.com/ (Note: The provided URL was for job applications, this is the general company site)

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding CEVA's position as a major global 3PL and part of CMA CGM is key. This implies that the solutions designed will be large-scale, complex, and often involve multi-modal transport. The "Rise in Motion" slogan suggests a culture that values career progression and dynamism, which is a positive signal for ambitious operations professionals.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-to-senior management level, focusing on specialized design and strategic planning within the logistics operations domain. It requires a blend of technical logistics knowledge, analytical prowess, commercial understanding, and project management skills. The scope involves developing solutions for significant customer opportunities, indicating a high level of responsibility and impact.

Reporting Structure: The Solution Design Manager will likely report to a senior leader within the Solution Design department, such as a Director of Solution Design or Head of Commercial Operations. They will collaborate extensively with Business Development Managers and operational leads, but their primary reporting line will be within the strategic design function.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and significant impact on revenue generation and client acquisition. By designing compelling and cost-effective logistics solutions, the Solution Design Manager enables CEVA Logistics to win new business and retain existing clients. The quality of the designed solutions directly influences operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and ultimately, the profitability of contracts.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization Advancement: Deepen expertise in specific areas of logistics design, such as e-commerce fulfillment, temperature-controlled logistics, or advanced transportation optimization.

• Leadership Progression: Advance into roles such as Head of Solution Design, Director of Commercial Operations, or senior positions within Operations Management, leading larger teams and more strategic initiatives.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Transition into broader operational leadership roles, business development management, or strategic planning positions within CEVA Logistics or the wider CMA CGM Group.

• Continuous Learning: Opportunities to stay abreast of industry trends, new technologies, and best practices in supply chain design through training, conferences, and on-the-job development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Solution Design Manager" title implies a role that is pivotal in the Go-To-Market strategy for logistics services. Growth opportunities are likely tied to expanding responsibilities in handling larger accounts, developing more complex solutions, or moving into leadership of the design function itself.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site in Ashby-de-la-Zouch, indicating a professional office environment. This setup is typical for roles requiring close collaboration with internal teams and direct customer engagement for presentations.

Office Location(s): Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Leicestershire, England. This location offers a base for operations within the UK, likely serving clients across the region and potentially supporting international bids. Accessibility information would typically be available via company intranet or HR, but it's a well-established town with transport links.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be a modern office environment designed to foster collaboration. This would include meeting rooms for team discussions and client presentations, and individual workstations equipped with the necessary technology.

• Access to IT infrastructure, including high-performance computers for data analysis, access to internal systems (like TMS, CRM, ERP), and standard office software suites, is expected.

• Opportunities for interaction with a diverse team of logistics professionals, business development managers, and operational experts will be frequent, supporting knowledge sharing and problem-solving.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, likely around 40 hours per week. While primarily office-based, the demands of managing complex projects and supporting sales cycles may necessitate some flexibility to meet deadlines or accommodate international client schedules. This flexibility is common in strategic roles supporting global operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: An on-site role in a company of CEVA's size suggests a structured yet collaborative office environment. The focus will be on enabling efficient work through dedicated spaces and robust IT infrastructure, facilitating the complex analysis and collaboration required for solution design.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or HR representative will likely conduct an initial phone screen to assess basic qualifications, cultural fit, and salary expectations.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A more in-depth discussion with the Hiring Manager focusing on your experience in solution design, logistics, and project management. Expect questions about your approach to problem-solving and managing complex projects.

• Technical/Skills Assessment: This may involve a practical exercise or case study focused on analyzing logistics data, developing a basic costing model, or outlining a solution design for a hypothetical scenario. Proficiency with Excel and Paragon TMS will likely be assessed here.

• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will be asked to present one or more detailed case studies from their portfolio, demonstrating their ability to design, cost, and articulate logistics solutions. This is a critical stage to showcase your analytical and communication skills.

• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: You may meet with potential colleagues from the Solution Design team, Business Development, or Operations to assess team fit and cross-functional collaboration potential.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader (e.g., Director of Commercial Operations) to discuss strategic alignment and overall suitability.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Impact: For each case study, clearly articulate the problem, your proposed solution, the implementation process, and most importantly, the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings achieved, efficiency improvements, service level enhancements, revenue secured). Use specific metrics and data.

• Structure Your Narrative: Organize your case studies logically. A good structure includes: Customer Challenge -> Your Solution Approach -> Key Design Elements (Processes, Technology, Commercials) -> Implementation Considerations -> Outcomes/ROI.

• Highlight Paragon Expertise: If your portfolio includes projects where Paragon TMS was central to the solution, make this explicit. Detail your specific contributions and how the system enabled the design.

• Demonstrate Commercial Acumen: Showcase your ability to build financial models, develop rate cards, and justify solutions from a commercial perspective.

• Visual Aids are Key: Use clear process flows, charts, and graphs to illustrate complex concepts and data. Ensure your presentation materials are professional and easy to follow.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about your design choices, assumptions made, and alternative solutions considered.

Challenge Preparation:

• Data Interpretation: Practice analyzing sample logistics data sets (e.g., transport volumes, delivery times, costs) to identify trends and areas for optimization.

• Costing Scenarios: Be ready to walk through the steps of building a basic costing model for a transport or warehousing operation.

• Solution Pitch: Practice articulating a logistics solution concisely and persuasively, focusing on the customer's pain points and how your design addresses them.

• Paragon TMS Scenarios: If possible, familiarize yourself with common use cases or challenges that might be addressed using Paragon TMS.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a Solution Design Manager is heavily weighted towards demonstrating practical application of skills. A well-curated portfolio is essential, and candidates must be prepared to articulate their design process, commercial rationale, and quantifiable outcomes.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Paragon Routing & Transport Management System (TMS): This is explicitly mentioned as a required skill and will be a core tool for designing and optimizing transport networks. Proficiency in its functionalities for route optimization, fleet management, and scheduling is expected.

• Microsoft Excel: Essential for advanced data analysis, financial modeling, building complex rate cards, costings, and creating impactful presentations. Proficiency beyond basic formulas is a must.

• Microsoft PowerPoint: Crucial for developing and delivering compelling solution proposals and presentations to internal and external stakeholders.

• Microsoft Visio/Lucidchart (or similar): Likely used for creating detailed process flows, network diagrams, and workflow visualizations to document designed solutions.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Internal CEVA Analytics Platforms: Expect to use company-specific or integrated analytics tools for accessing customer data, performance metrics, and operational KPIs.

• Business Intelligence (BI) Tools: Potentially exposure to BI tools like Tableau, Power BI, or QlikView for data visualization and reporting, depending on how CEVA structures its analytics.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) System: Likely Salesforce or a similar enterprise CRM for managing customer data, sales pipelines, and proposal tracking.

• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems: Understanding of how logistics solutions integrate with broader ERP systems (e.g., SAP) is beneficial.

• Automation Tools: Familiarity with workflow automation concepts and tools that can streamline operational processes within logistics.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on specialized logistics software (Paragon TMS) and robust data analysis/presentation tools. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their expertise in these areas.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A deep commitment to understanding and exceeding customer expectations through tailored, efficient, and reliable logistics solutions.

• Innovation: A drive to continuously seek and implement new technologies and process improvements to enhance service offerings and operational effectiveness.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding high ethical standards in all dealings with customers, partners, and colleagues, and maintaining a professional demeanor in client interactions.

• Collaboration: A belief in the power of teamwork, encouraging cross-functional cooperation to deliver holistic solutions and support business objectives.

• Efficiency & Cost-Effectiveness: A dedication to optimizing operations for maximum efficiency, minimizing waste, and delivering cost-competitive solutions that provide strong ROI.

Collaboration Style:

• The team likely operates with a collaborative, cross-functional approach. Solution designers must be adept at working with sales to understand client needs, with operations to ensure feasibility, and with IT to integrate systems.

• Open communication and constructive feedback are probably encouraged, especially during the solution design and review phases, to refine proposals and ensure alignment.

• A culture of knowledge sharing is important, where best practices, successful design elements, and lessons learned are disseminated across the team and relevant departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: CEVA's slogan "Rise in Motion" and emphasis on global connectivity suggest a dynamic and forward-thinking culture. Values will likely revolve around agility, customer-centricity, and a commitment to driving progress in the logistics industry.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Global Logistics: Designing solutions that effectively integrate diverse transport modes, customs regulations, and operational requirements across different geographies.

• Balancing Cost and Service: Finding the optimal balance between delivering high-quality, reliable service and meeting aggressive cost targets for clients in a competitive market.

• Rapidly Evolving Technology: Keeping pace with advancements in logistics technology, automation, and data analytics to ensure solutions remain cutting-edge and efficient.

• Data Quality & Availability: Dealing with potentially inconsistent or incomplete customer data, requiring strong data cleansing and analytical skills to build reliable models.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Navigating the needs and priorities of multiple internal departments and external customer stakeholders to gain consensus on proposed solutions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced TMS Training: Deepening expertise in Paragon TMS and potentially other logistics software.

• Supply Chain Optimization Techniques: Access to training or certifications in advanced modeling, network design, and simulation tools.

• Commercial & Financial Acumen: Opportunities to enhance skills in financial modeling, pricing strategies, and business case development.

• Industry Conferences & Webinars: Staying current with trends in logistics, technology, and supply chain management.

• Mentorship Programs: Potential for guidance from senior leaders within Solution Design or Operations to foster career growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to a senior role in a complex, global industry. The growth opportunities are substantial for individuals looking to build a career in strategic logistics operations.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex transport or supply chain solution you designed from scratch. What was the customer's challenge, how did you approach the design, what were the key components of your solution, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your structured approach, use of data, and quantifiable results.)

• "How do you typically build a commercial model and operational costing for a new logistics contract? Walk me through your process and the key inputs you consider." (Highlight your understanding of pricing, risk assessment, and financial justification.)

• "Imagine a customer wants to reduce their warehousing costs by 15% while maintaining service levels. What steps would you take to design a solution for them?" (Demonstrate your problem-solving methodology, analytical approach, and ability to think critically about operational levers.)

• "How do you ensure your designed solutions are not only innovative but also operationally feasible and implementable by the operations team?" (Show your understanding of bridging the gap between design and execution.)

• "Describe a time you had to present a complex logistics solution to a challenging stakeholder. How did you tailor your message and what was the result?" (Focus on communication, persuasion, and stakeholder management skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about CEVA Logistics and the CMA CGM Group, and why are you interested in working here?" (Research recent news, company values, and their position in the market.)

• "How do you see your role contributing to CEVA's 'Rise in Motion' philosophy?" (Connect your aspirations and work style to the company's ethos.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with sales teams and operational departments?" (Emphasize your ability to work cross-functionally and build strong working relationships.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select High-Impact Examples: Choose 2-3 diverse case studies that best showcase your skills in solution design, costing, and presentation, ideally including examples where you used Paragon TMS.

• Quantify Everything Possible: For each case study, clearly state the problem, your solution, the key metrics, and the tangible business impact (e.g., % cost reduction, % service improvement, ROI).

• Focus on Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions and responsibilities within each project.

• Be Prepared for Technical Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about your assumptions, methodologies, and the specific functionalities of tools like Paragon TMS.

• Practice Your Narrative: Rehearse your presentation to ensure it flows logically, is concise, and effectively communicates the value you brought to each project.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of strategic thinking, analytical rigor, technical proficiency (especially with Paragon TMS), and strong communication skills, all within the context of logistics operations.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Solution Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the CEVA Logistics careers portal.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 of your most impactful solution design case studies. For each, clearly outline the customer challenge, your proposed solution, the methodologies and tools used (especially Paragon TMS), and the quantifiable business outcomes (cost savings, efficiency gains, ROI).

• Tailor Your CV: Ensure your resume highlights relevant experience in solution design, transport planning, supply chain management, and specifically mentions your advanced skills with Microsoft Excel and Paragon TMS. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Presentation: Practice presenting your portfolio case studies concisely and persuasively. Be ready to articulate your design process, commercial rationale, and technical approach.

• Research CEVA Logistics: Understand their services, market position, company values ("Rise in Motion"), and recent achievements. This will help you tailor your answers 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.