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

Date Posted: August 5, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (Implied 2-5 years, based on AI analysis of skills and responsibilities)

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 GTM strategy through tailored logistics offerings.

• Manage complex, multi-stage solution design projects, acting as a critical link between Business Development, Operations, IT, and Procurement to ensure client needs are met with operational excellence.

• Develop robust commercial models, rate cards, and detailed operational costings to support compelling customer proposals and strategic business growth initiatives.

• Analyze customer data to identify and implement operational improvements, optimizations, and cost efficiencies, leveraging advanced analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Produce comprehensive solution documentation, including process flows and supporting materials, to facilitate seamless implementation and ensure client success.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role sits at the intersection of Sales Operations and GTM Strategy, focusing on the pre-sales solution design phase. The "Solution Design Manager" title, combined with responsibilities like developing commercial models, rate cards, and operational costings, and working closely with Business Development, clearly indicates a GTM-aligned operations function. The emphasis on data analysis for optimization and the use of transport management systems suggests a strong operational analytics component. The implied experience level of 2-5 years is based on the expectation of managing complex projects and having advanced analytical skills.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and detailed design of integrated transport and supply chain solutions tailored to the specific needs of new and existing enterprise-level customers.

• Manage a portfolio of complex solution design projects concurrently, navigating various stages of the sales lifecycle from initial qualification to proposal submission.

• Develop and refine commercial models, including accurate rate cards and comprehensive operational costings, to support profitable and competitive customer proposals.

• Present sophisticated solution designs and proposals to internal stakeholders and external customers, demonstrating strong communication, professionalism, and technical expertise.

• Conduct in-depth analysis of customer operational data to identify opportunities for process optimization, efficiency gains, and cost reduction within their supply chains.

• Create detailed solution documentation, including process maps, workflow diagrams, and supporting materials, to ensure clarity and facilitate effective handover to operations and implementation teams.

• Proactively research and champion the adoption of innovative technologies and best-practice process improvements to enhance the value proposition of CEVA's customer solutions.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with Sales, Operations, IT, Procurement, and Finance teams to ensure the feasibility and alignment of designed solutions with business objectives and capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed are expanded to emphasize the strategic and operational impact of the Solution Design Manager. For instance, "Lead the design of innovative end-to-end transport and supply chain solutions" is broadened to "Lead the conceptualization and detailed design of integrated transport and supply chain solutions tailored to the specific needs of new and existing enterprise-level customers" to highlight the strategic client focus. The mention of "seamless implementation" implies a critical handover process, which is a core operations function.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field is typically expected for this level of role. A Master's degree or relevant certifications may be advantageous.

Experience: Demonstrated experience in Solutions Design, Transport Planning, Supply Chain Management, or Logistics operations is crucial. Experience within a 3PL environment is highly preferred given CEVA's business model.

Required Skills:

• Solution Design: Proven ability to conceptualize and architect complex, end-to-end logistics and transport solutions.

• Advanced Microsoft Excel: Mastery in data analysis, financial modeling, building commercial models, and generating accurate costings. This includes proficiency with complex formulas, pivot tables, and data visualization.

• Transport Management Systems (TMS): Advanced knowledge and hands-on experience with Paragon routing and TMS software is a mandatory requirement.

• Analytical & Problem-Solving: Exceptional ability to dissect complex data sets, identify root causes, and develop practical, efficient solutions.

• Commercial Acumen: Strong understanding of logistics pricing, cost structures, profitability drivers, and commercial negotiation principles.

• Stakeholder Management: Experience in building relationships and effectively communicating with internal teams (Sales, Ops, IT) and external customers at various levels.

• Project Management: Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously, adhering to strict deadlines and ensuring successful delivery.

• Process Mapping & Documentation: Proficiency in creating clear and concise process flows, documentation, and operational blueprints.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with other supply chain planning or optimization software.

• Familiarity with WMS (Warehouse Management Systems) and other relevant logistics technologies.

• Knowledge of international freight forwarding, contract logistics, and ground transportation services.

• Experience in bid management and proposal writing within the logistics sector.

• Data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) for enhanced reporting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The AI-identified skills are categorized into Required and Preferred, with specific examples to illustrate the depth of expertise needed. "Advanced Microsoft Excel" is elaborated to include specific functionalities expected by operations professionals. The mandatory mention of "Paragon routing and transport management systems" is highlighted as a critical technical skill. The experience level is inferred from the complexity of responsibilities and the need for advanced skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Solution Design Case Studies: Showcase 2-3 detailed case studies of complex logistics or transport solutions you have designed. Each case study should clearly articulate the customer's challenge, your proposed solution, the methodologies used (including data analysis and system integration), and the quantifiable benefits achieved (e.g., cost savings, efficiency gains, service level improvements).

• Commercial Modeling Examples: Provide anonymized examples of commercial models, rate cards, or costings you have developed. Highlight your approach to incorporating operational costs, risks, and profitability targets.

• Process Flow Diagrams: Include examples of process maps or workflow diagrams created to illustrate proposed solutions, demonstrating your ability to visualize complex operational processes clearly and logically.

• Data Analysis Outputs: Present anonymized samples of data analysis performed on customer datasets, showcasing your ability to extract insights, identify optimization opportunities, and support solution design recommendations.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate experience in documenting existing workflows and designing optimized future-state processes that leverage technology and best practices.

• Implementation Support: Show evidence of creating documentation that facilitates a smooth transition of designed solutions to operational teams for implementation.

• Metrics & Performance Analysis: Include examples of how you define and track key performance indicators (KPIs) for designed solutions to measure success post-implementation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is critical for operations roles. The portfolio requirements are detailed, focusing on quantifiable achievements and demonstrating the candidate's ability to translate complex analysis and design into tangible business outcomes. The emphasis is on showcasing the entire solution design lifecycle, from problem identification and data analysis to proposal development and implementation readiness.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Solution Design Manager in the UK with 2-5 years of experience, particularly within the logistics sector, the estimated salary range is likely between £45,000 - £65,000 per annum. This can vary based on the specific complexity of projects managed, the candidate's precise experience, and negotiation.

Benefits:

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

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

• Pension Scheme: Company-contributed retirement savings plan.

• 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, Travel, and Hospitality Discounts: Savings on a wide range of consumer goods and services.

Working Hours: The role is full-time, with an estimated 40 hours per week. While the core hours are typically standard business hours (e.g., 9 AM to 5 PM), flexibility may be required to accommodate customer needs, project deadlines, and international time zones where applicable.

📝 Enhancement Note: A salary range is estimated based on typical UK compensation for similar roles and experience levels in the logistics industry. The provided benefits are listed and slightly elaborated upon to highlight their value to professionals. Working hours are stated as standard full-time with a note on potential flexibility, which is common in solution design roles that interact with global clients or critical project phases.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Logistics and Supply Chain Management, specifically within the global transportation and contract logistics sector. CEVA Logistics is a Top 5 global 3PL, part of the CMA CGM Group, a world leader in shipping and logistics. This context implies a fast-paced, dynamic, and globally interconnected work environment focused on efficiency, reliability, and customer service.

Company Size: CEVA Logistics operates with over 110,000 employees across more than 1,500 sites in 170+ countries, indicating a large, multinational organization. This size offers opportunities for diverse career paths and exposure to a wide range of operational challenges.

Founded: CEVA Logistics has a history rooted in various acquisitions and mergers, with its current form and brand established in recent decades, building on decades of logistics expertise. Its integration with the CMA CGM Group signifies a commitment to comprehensive end-to-end supply chain solutions.

Team Structure:

• Operations-Centric: The Solution Design team likely operates within or very closely aligned with the commercial and operations departments, serving as a bridge.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Team members frequently collaborate with Business Development, Operations Managers, IT specialists, Procurement, and Finance to develop cohesive solutions.

• Project-Based Work: The team is structured to manage multiple concurrent projects, with individuals often assigned to specific bids or customer opportunities.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Solutions are grounded in rigorous analysis of customer data, operational metrics, and market trends.

• Customer-Centricity: The primary focus is on designing solutions that deliver tangible value and address specific customer pain points.

• Continuous Improvement: A culture that encourages identifying and implementing innovative technologies and process enhancements to elevate service offerings.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context is enriched by referencing its position as a Top 5 3PL and its affiliation with CMA CGM Group, highlighting the scale and scope of operations. The team structure and methodology are inferred based on the role's responsibilities and typical operations within large logistics firms, emphasizing collaboration and data-driven approaches.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Solution Design Manager role represents a mid-to-senior level position within the operations or GTM support functions. It requires a blend of technical expertise in logistics and systems, analytical prowess, commercial understanding, and strong interpersonal skills. The role is pivotal in securing new business and shaping how CEVA delivers services.

Reporting Structure: The Solution Design Manager likely reports to a Head of Solution Design, Commercial Director, or a senior Operations leader within the relevant business unit or region. They will work closely with sales teams and operational leaders.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts revenue generation by enabling the sales team to present compelling, cost-effective, and innovative solutions. Successful solution designs lead to new client acquisition and revenue growth, while optimized designs improve operational efficiency and profitability for both CEVA and its clients.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Solution Design/Lead: Progression to a Senior Solution Design Manager or Lead role, managing larger, more strategic opportunities or mentoring junior team members.

• Operations Management: Transition into operational leadership roles (e.g., Operations Manager, Cluster Manager) leveraging the deep understanding of client needs and operational workflows gained in solution design.

• Business Development/Sales Engineering: Move into roles with direct sales responsibility, focusing on technical pre-sales or complex account management.

• Specialization: Develop expertise in specific areas like network design, technology integration, or a particular industry vertical.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career trajectory is detailed, showing clear pathways for advancement within operations, sales, and specialized design roles, which is a key consideration for ambitious operations professionals. The impact on revenue and profitability is explicitly stated to underscore the strategic importance of the role.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site in Ashby-de-la-Zouch, England. This suggests a professional office environment typical of a logistics company's regional hub or headquarters, designed to support operational planning, sales support, and administrative functions.

Office Location(s): Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Leicestershire, England. This location provides access to a skilled workforce and is part of the UK's logistics network.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The workspace will likely facilitate close collaboration with sales, operations planning, and IT teams, encouraging real-time problem-solving and solution refinement.

• Technology-Enabled: Access to necessary IT infrastructure, including high-performance computing for data analysis, specialized logistics software, and communication tools.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular team meetings, project huddles, and informal discussions to foster knowledge sharing and a cohesive team spirit.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours (approx. 40 hours/week) are expected. While the core schedule is likely Monday to Friday, the nature of working on customer bids and supporting sales may occasionally require flexibility to meet urgent deadlines or engage with international stakeholders in different time zones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is described to reflect a typical on-site office setting for a logistics company, emphasizing collaboration and the tools necessary for solution design. The mention of flexibility acknowledges the demands often placed on GTM and operations support roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application, likely conducted by HR or a Talent Acquisition specialist, to assess alignment with the core requirements.

• Hiring Manager Interview: An in-depth discussion with the Hiring Manager (likely Head of Solution Design or Commercial Lead) focusing on your experience in solution design, commercial modeling, data analysis, and TMS proficiency (especially Paragon).

• Technical/Case Study Assessment: You may be asked to complete a take-home assignment or a live case study. This could involve analyzing a sample dataset, designing a basic solution for a hypothetical scenario, or costing a particular transport lane. This is where your portfolio will be crucial.

• Cross-Functional Panel Interview: Meet with representatives from Sales, Operations, and potentially IT to assess your collaboration style, communication skills, and ability to integrate diverse perspectives into your solutions.

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

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Everything: For each case study, clearly state the measurable outcomes achieved (e.g., "Reduced transportation costs by 15%", "Improved delivery success rate by 10%", "Streamlined order processing time by 20%").

• Showcase Paragon Expertise: If possible, include anonymized examples or detailed descriptions of how you utilized Paragon to model, optimize, or cost solutions.

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by demonstrating specific skills (e.g., a section for commercial models, a section for process flows).

• Highlight Collaboration: Be prepared to discuss how you worked with different teams and stakeholders to develop and present your solutions.

• Focus on ROI: Emphasize how your solutions delivered a strong Return on Investment for previous clients.

Challenge Preparation:

• Data Analysis Practice: Practice analyzing datasets in Excel to identify trends, anomalies, and optimization opportunities. Be ready to articulate your findings and recommendations verbally.

• Costing Scenarios: Familiarize yourself with common logistics cost components (e.g., fuel, labor, vehicle maintenance, tolls, overheads) and practice building cost models.

• Process Mapping: Be ready to sketch out or describe a typical logistics process (e.g., order fulfillment, route planning, last-mile delivery) and identify areas for improvement.

• Presentation Skills: Practice presenting your solutions concisely and persuasively, anticipating potential questions from sales, operations, and customer perspectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is detailed to guide candidates through typical stages for such a role. Portfolio review tips are action-oriented, focusing on demonstrating quantifiable results and specific technical skills like Paragon usage, which is critical for this role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Paragon Routing & Transport Management Systems: A core requirement; deep expertise in its capabilities for route optimization, scheduling, dispatch, and cost analysis is essential.

• Microsoft Excel: Advanced proficiency for data manipulation, complex financial modeling, and scenario planning.

• Microsoft PowerPoint: For creating and delivering compelling presentations of solutions to stakeholders.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Internal CEVA Logistics Systems: Likely proprietary or customized systems for operational data and customer information.

• Data Analysis Software: While Excel is primary, familiarity with other analytical tools or BI platforms (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, SQL for data extraction) would be beneficial for deeper analysis.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: Understanding how CRM data (e.g., Salesforce, Dynamics 365) informs sales opportunities and customer requirements.

• Workflow Automation Tools: Familiarity with concepts of process automation within logistics is a plus, though not explicitly required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is focused on the tools explicitly mentioned (Excel, Paragon) and other relevant systems for a Solution Design role in logistics, emphasizing their application in analysis, modeling, and presentation.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A commitment to understanding and exceeding customer expectations through innovative and efficient logistics solutions.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding high ethical standards and demonstrating professionalism in all interactions, especially when presenting to clients.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with diverse teams across departments to achieve common goals and deliver integrated solutions.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Relying on data analysis and objective insights to inform solution design and operational improvements.

• Continuous Improvement: A proactive mindset towards identifying opportunities for innovation, efficiency, and service enhancement.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively seeking input and buy-in from Sales, Operations, IT, and Finance to ensure solutions are comprehensive, feasible, and aligned with business strategy.

• Partnership Approach: Building strong working relationships with sales teams to understand client needs and with operations teams to ensure successful implementation.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share insights, best practices, and learnings from solution design projects across the team and broader organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's values are inferred from its industry position and the nature of the role, focusing on aspects relevant to operations and client-facing functions. The collaboration style emphasizes the need for strong interpersonal skills and cross-departmental synergy.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Complexity and Simplicity: Designing solutions that are innovative and sophisticated yet practical and easily implementable by operations.

• Data Quality & Availability: Dealing with potentially incomplete, inconsistent, or fragmented customer data, requiring strong data cleansing and imputation skills.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Navigating diverse priorities and perspectives among internal teams and external clients to gain consensus on solution design.

• Rapidly Evolving Logistics Landscape: Keeping pace with new technologies, market trends, and regulatory changes impacting supply chain design.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced System Training: Deepen expertise in Paragon and explore other advanced logistics and analytics software.

• Industry Certifications: Pursue certifications in Supply Chain Management (e.g., APICS CSCP, CLTD) or specific logistics disciplines.

• Mentorship: Benefit from guidance from senior leaders within CEVA's extensive logistics network.

• Exposure to Global Operations: Gain insights into diverse international logistics challenges and solutions through CEVA's global presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: Potential challenges are identified based on the inherent complexities of solution design in a large, dynamic industry. Growth opportunities are framed around skill enhancement and career progression within the logistics sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you designed a complex transport solution for a challenging customer. What was your process, what tools did you use (especially Paragon), and what were the key outcomes?" (Focus on process, data analysis, Paragon usage, and quantifiable results).

• "How do you approach developing commercial models and costings for logistics services? What factors do you consider, and how do you ensure accuracy and profitability?" (Highlight your understanding of cost drivers, pricing strategies, and risk assessment).

• "Imagine a customer wants to reduce their last-mile delivery costs by 20% while maintaining current service levels. How would you approach analyzing their data and designing a solution?" (Demonstrate your analytical methodology, problem-solving approach, and ability to think creatively within constraints). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about CEVA Logistics and the CMA CGM Group, and why are you interested in contributing to our growth through solution design?" (Research their services, recent news, and how your role fits into their strategy).

• "How do you manage conflicting priorities when working on multiple bids simultaneously? Describe your project management approach." (Emphasize organization, prioritization techniques, and communication).

• "How do you ensure buy-in from operations teams when presenting a new or optimized solution you've designed?" (Focus on collaborative communication, understanding operational constraints, and demonstrating mutual benefits). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling with Data: Frame your case studies as compelling narratives, starting with the client's problem, detailing your analytical journey and solution design, and concluding with the impactful, quantified results.

• Highlight Paragon's Role: Clearly articulate how Paragon was instrumental in achieving the outcomes. Be prepared for technical questions about its features and application.

• Concise and Visual: Use clear, concise language and well-designed visuals (charts, process maps) to convey complex information effectively. Avoid jargon where possible, or explain it clearly.

• Focus on ROI: Always tie your solutions back to business value, demonstrating how you helped clients save money, increase efficiency, or improve service.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview questions are crafted to probe for specific competencies required for a Solution Design Manager, with an emphasis on practical application, problem-solving, and the use of key tools like Paragon. Portfolio presentation advice focuses on making a strong, data-driven case for the candidate's capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Solution Design Manager position:

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

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your CV and any accompanying cover letter to highlight your experience with solution design, advanced Excel, Paragon TMS, commercial modeling, and data analysis. Select 2-3 of your most impactful solution design case studies for potential portfolio submission or discussion.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines achievements using quantifiable metrics and keywords relevant to solution design, logistics, and supply chain optimization, including "Paragon" and "transport management systems."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience with the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result), focusing on challenges related to logistics solution design, data analysis, and stakeholder management. Prepare to discuss your portfolio in detail.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research CEVA Logistics, its services, its position in the market (Top 5 3PL, CMA CGM Group affiliation), and any recent news or strategic initiatives. Understand their customer base and operational footprint.

⚠️ 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.