Solution Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Solution Design Manager

Company: Maersk

Location: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States

Job Type: Full time

Category: Operations / Logistics Solution Design

Date Posted: August 10, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead end-to-end solution design for complex Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) opportunities, including specialized services like white glove, threshold delivery, and pool point programs, ensuring operational feasibility and technical integration.

• Act as a critical partner to commercial and pricing teams, defining key solution criteria early in the lead-to-agreement process and delivering comprehensive Business Requirements Documents (BRDs) to facilitate seamless implementation.

• Navigate and fluidly manage a parallel deal process where solution design and pricing often occur concurrently, proactively flagging risks and ensuring quality without becoming a bottleneck.

• Evaluate and manage technical integration requirements, assessing data exchange compatibility, technical feasibility, and third-party readiness as integral components of solution development.

• Contribute to the maturation of Maersk Global Logistics (MGL) and Maersk's scalable solution design capabilities by developing standardized templates, frameworks, and documentation standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is described as "solution-design agnostic," indicating a need for broad expertise across both operational/CX and technical solution design facets, rather than deep specialization in one area. This implies a strategic understanding of the entire solution lifecycle.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Own the end-to-end solution design process for specialized LTL opportunities, from initial requirements intake to the delivery of a complete Business Requirements Document (BRD).

• Translate customer requirements, RFP specifications, and commercial objectives into meticulously structured solution packages, detailing operational flows, service level parameters, customer experience (CX) touchpoints, exception handling protocols, and technical integration needs.

• Collaborate closely with commercial and pricing teams in a parallel, iterative deal process, ensuring critical solution criteria are documented before initial pricing phases and the full solution is captured in the BRD before implementation handoff.

• Assess and manage third-party integration requirements, evaluating data exchange compatibility, technical feasibility, and partner readiness, while proactively escalating risks and open questions.

• Validate operational capability and capacity across network, service centers, carriers, and staffing as a prerequisite for all solution designs, surfacing gaps and coordinating cross-functional resolution or flagging.

• Lead implementation handoffs alongside the commercial owner, serving as the primary solution explainer to implementation teams, operations, CX, and other downstream stakeholders, ensuring continuity between design and execution.

• Develop and maintain scalable solution design tools, including templates, capability assessment checklists, pricing intake review procedures, and BRD documentation standards, to enhance consistency and reduce cycle times.

• Support MGL's expansion into multi-Maersk-product solution design by building familiarity with adjacent Maersk product capabilities, constraints, and integration requirements.

• Define the CX layer of complex solutions, ensuring customer-facing service level structures, communication protocols, escalation paths, and exception workflows are specific, feasible, and aligned with MGL's operational model.

• Provide structured, actionable product feedback to product and commercial leadership based on recurring patterns, capability gaps, or unmet customer requirements identified during solution design work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "parallel, iterative deal process" suggests a dynamic environment where the Solution Design Manager must be adept at managing ambiguity and shifting priorities, common in fast-paced sales and operations environments. The role requires strong communication to bridge potential gaps between sales promises and operational realities.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field. A Master's degree or relevant professional certifications (e.g., PMP, CSCP) are advantageous.

Experience: 5-10 years of progressive experience in solution design, operations management, or business analysis within the logistics, freight forwarding, or supply chain industry, with a specific focus on LTL operations.

Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in Solution Design for complex logistics offerings, particularly LTL, specialized deliveries, and multi-product solutions.

• Proficiency in developing comprehensive Business Requirements Documents (BRDs), translating business needs into technical and operational specifications.

• Strong understanding of LTL Logistics operations, including network design, service level agreements (SLAs), and exception management.

• Demonstrated experience in Technical Integration assessment, understanding data exchange protocols, API capabilities, and system compatibility.

• Skilled in Operational Validation, assessing network capacity, service center capabilities, and carrier readiness to ensure solution feasibility.

• Proficient in Risk Management, identifying, assessing, and communicating integration risks, operational gaps, and technical challenges.

• Experience in defining and structuring Customer Experience (CX) workflows and service level structures for external clients.

• Ability to conduct Process Improvement analysis and develop scalable documentation standards and templates.

• Excellent Stakeholder Management skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate effectively across commercial, pricing, operations, and technical teams.

• Experience with RFP Management processes, understanding how to respond to complex customer requirements. Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with adjacent Maersk product lines and their integration capabilities.

• Experience with Lean, Six Sigma, or other process optimization methodologies.

• Knowledge of transportation management systems (TMS) and their integration capabilities.

• Data analysis and visualization skills for presenting solution proposals and identifying trends.

• Project management experience, particularly in the handover phase from commercial to implementation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the "solution-design agnostic" nature, candidates should highlight experience across both operational and technical solution aspects. The emphasis on LTL and specialized services suggests a need for deep domain expertise in this niche.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio showcasing end-to-end solution design projects, particularly for complex LTL or specialized logistics services.

• Include examples of detailed Business Requirements Documents (BRDs) that clearly outline operational flows, service levels, CX touchpoints, and technical integration specifications.

• Present case studies illustrating how you translated customer needs and RFP requirements into validated, feasible solutions.

• Showcase documentation of operational capacity assessments and risk mitigation strategies developed during solution design.

• Provide examples of process improvement initiatives or the development of reusable solution design tools (templates, checklists, SOPs) that enhanced efficiency or consistency. Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their approach to developing and documenting solution designs, including workflow mapping and service level definition.

• Demonstrate familiarity with creating process documentation that supports the handover of solutions to implementation and operations teams.

• Be ready to articulate how you would ensure the quality and completeness of solution documentation to minimize post-handoff rework.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is crucial for this role. Candidates should prepare to walk through specific examples of solution designs, highlighting their methodology for operational validation, technical assessment, and stakeholder alignment, especially for LTL and specialized offerings.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $125,000 - $130,000 annually. This range is the anticipated starting salary, subject to adjustment based on market conditions and other factors. The final salary will be determined in accordance with applicable laws.

Benefits:

• Medical Insurance

• Dental Insurance

• Vision Insurance

• 401k Retirement Plan with Company Match

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Flexible Work Schedules (where feasible)

• Additional benefits as offered by Maersk.

Working Hours: The role is listed as full-time, typically equating to 40 hours per week. While flexible work schedules are mentioned as a benefit, the "On-site" designation suggests a primary need for physical presence, with flexibility applied as "when possible."

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is explicitly stated. For this location (Charlotte, NC), this range is competitive for a senior-level Solution Design Manager role in logistics, reflecting the specialized nature and responsibilities. The inclusion of "Flexible Work Schedules (when possible)" indicates a hybrid approach might be considered, though the primary designation is on-site.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Logistics and Shipping (specifically within Maersk's Global Logistics division). Maersk is a global leader in integrated logistics, aiming to connect and simplify supply chains.

Company Size: Maersk is a very large, publicly traded multinational corporation, employing tens of thousands of individuals globally. This implies a structured environment with established processes but also opportunities for impact within specialized divisions.

Founded: 1904. Maersk has a long history, signifying stability and extensive experience in the shipping and logistics industry.

Team Structure:

• The Solution Design Manager operates as a senior individual contributor within Maersk Global Logistics (MGL), likely part of a broader commercial or operations strategy team.

• The role reports into a management or directorial level within the solution design or commercial excellence function.

• Close collaboration with commercial, pricing, implementation, operations, CX, and technical teams across various departments and potentially geographies is expected. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Solutions are expected to be grounded in customer requirements and operational data.

• Process Optimization: A key focus is on developing scalable and repeatable solution design processes and documentation.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role necessitates seamless partnership across diverse internal teams to ensure comprehensive and validated solutions.

• Customer-Centricity: Designing solutions that meet specific customer needs and enhance their experience is paramount.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Maersk's global scale and focus on integrated logistics mean this role operates within a complex ecosystem. Understanding Maersk's broader strategy, including its digital transformation and sustainability initiatives, can provide valuable context for solution design.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior individual contributor role, positioned as a "Solution Design Manager." It requires a high degree of autonomy and expertise, often serving as a subject matter expert (SME) for specialized LTL opportunities. This level typically signifies significant experience and the ability to handle complex, high-stakes projects independently.

Reporting Structure: The role acts as a critical partner to commercial and pricing teams and leads implementation handovers. While an individual contributor, the "Manager" title suggests a level of authority and responsibility akin to managing the solution design process for significant deals. Reporting is likely to a Director or VP within Commercial Excellence, Operations Strategy, or a similar function.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on revenue generation by enabling the successful closure of complex, specialized deals that might otherwise be too challenging to scope and price accurately. By ensuring solutions are operationally validated and technically feasible, it reduces implementation risks and improves customer satisfaction, contributing to long-term client retention and Maersk's reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific LTL niches or expand into designing solutions for other modes or multi-product offerings within Maersk.

• Leadership: Transition into a team lead or management role overseeing a group of solution designers, or move into broader operational strategy or product management roles.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunities to move into areas like commercial strategy, implementation management, or key account management, leveraging a deep understanding of customer needs and operational capabilities.

• Industry Influence: Contribute to shaping Maersk's solution design methodologies and potentially industry best practices through internal development and external engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The title "Manager" for an individual contributor role emphasizes a high level of responsibility and strategic contribution. Growth paths likely involve either deepening specialization within solution design or moving into leadership and broader strategic roles within Maersk's extensive logistics network.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is designated as "On-site" in Charlotte, North Carolina. This suggests a traditional office environment where physical presence is expected for collaboration and daily operations. Maersk likely offers modern office facilities designed to support team collaboration.

Office Location(s): 9300 Arrowpoint Boulevard, Charlotte, NC. This address points to a business park environment, common for corporate offices in major cities. Proximity to transportation networks and amenities would be relevant for daily commuters.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The on-site nature facilitates direct interaction with commercial, pricing, and operations teams, crucial for the iterative deal process and solution validation.

• Tooling and Technology: Expect access to standard office productivity tools, collaboration platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Slack), CRM systems, and potentially specialized logistics/solution design software.

• Team Interaction: Regular face-to-face meetings, workshops, and brainstorming sessions are likely part of the daily routine, fostering a dynamic and responsive work environment.

Work Schedule: While the core is full-time (40 hours/week), the mention of "Flexible Work Schedules (when possible)" suggests some latitude. However, the on-site requirement means flexibility would likely be around daily start/end times rather than remote work. Given the parallel deal process and need for quick turnarounds, responsiveness during core business hours is critical.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Charlotte is key. Candidates should consider the commute and local work culture. While flexibility is mentioned, the emphasis on collaboration points to a structured office environment where team dynamics are central to success.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will likely conduct a preliminary call to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the hiring manager focusing on your experience in solution design, LTL logistics, and ability to manage complex deals. Expect behavioral questions.

• Technical/Case Study Interview: This is where your solution design skills will be rigorously tested. You may be given a scenario or a simplified RFP to develop a solution outline, assess feasibility, or identify risks. This is also where your portfolio will be heavily scrutinized.

• Cross-Functional Interviews: Interviews with key stakeholders from commercial, pricing, or implementation teams to assess collaboration and communication skills.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader (Director/VP) to confirm strategic alignment and overall fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects, focusing on LTL and complex solutions.

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline:

  • The Client/Opportunity Challenge
  • Your Role and Responsibilities
  • The Solution Designed (including operational, CX, and technical aspects)
  • Key Challenges Encountered (e.g., integration issues, capacity constraints)
  • How Risks Were Mitigated
  • The Outcome/Impact (e.g., deal won, improved efficiency, customer satisfaction)

• Quantify Results: Use metrics whenever possible (e.g., percentage improvement in cycle time, revenue secured, cost savings).

• Highlight Process: Explain your methodology for requirements gathering, validation, documentation (BRDs), and handover.

• Prepare for Deep Dives: Be ready to answer detailed questions about your design choices, assumptions, and the trade-offs you made.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based: Anticipate a hypothetical LTL opportunity where you'll need to outline a solution approach, identify key considerations, and flag potential risks.

• BRD Structure: Be prepared to discuss the essential components of a BRD and how you would tailor it for different types of solutions.

• Integration Focus: Understand common integration challenges in logistics (e.g., data formats, API limitations, real-time updates) and how to address them.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Practice articulating complex solutions clearly and concisely to different audiences (e.g., a salesperson vs. an operations manager).

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely heavily emphasize practical application of solution design principles. A well-prepared portfolio and the ability to articulate your thought process through case studies and hypothetical scenarios are critical for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System (e.g., Salesforce): For managing customer interactions, deal pipelines, and commercial data. Proficiency in using CRM for opportunity tracking and collaboration is essential.

• Microsoft Office Suite / Google Workspace: For creating presentations, documents, spreadsheets, and managing communications. Advanced Excel skills for data analysis and modeling are often required.

• Collaboration Platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Slack): For real-time communication, virtual meetings, and team project management.

• Project Management Software (e.g., Asana, Monday.com, Jira): While not explicitly stated, experience with PM tools is beneficial for tracking deal progress and managing documentation workflows.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Business Intelligence (BI) Tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau): May be used for analyzing operational performance data, customer trends, and solution effectiveness. Ability to interpret data to inform solution design is valuable.

• Spreadsheet Software (Excel/Google Sheets): Essential for data manipulation, basic analysis, and creating financial models for pricing support.

CRM & Automation:

• Transportation Management Systems (TMS): Familiarity with TMS functionalities and how they integrate into broader logistics solutions is a significant advantage.

• Integration Platforms/APIs: Understanding the principles of system integration and data exchange (e.g., EDI, REST APIs) is crucial for assessing technical feasibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools aren't listed, the role implies a need for strong analytical skills, proficiency in standard office productivity suites, and an understanding of how various logistics systems (CRM, TMS) interact. Familiarity with data exchange principles (EDI, APIs) is key for the technical integration aspect.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Centricity: A core value likely emphasizes understanding and meeting customer needs with tailored, effective solutions.

• Integrity & Transparency: Operating with honesty, especially in defining solution capabilities and limitations to clients and internal teams.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a cooperative environment where diverse teams work together to achieve common goals.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging new approaches to solution design and actively seeking ways to enhance processes and services.

• Accountability: Taking ownership of solution design outcomes and ensuring commitments are met.

Collaboration Style:

• Partnership: Working closely with commercial and pricing teams as a trusted advisor to shape winning proposals.

• Cross-functional Alignment: Building strong relationships with operations, IT, and CX to ensure solutions are practical, technically sound, and customer-friendly.

• Proactive Communication: Regularly sharing insights, risks, and updates to keep all stakeholders informed and aligned.

• Problem-Solving Orientation: A collective approach to identifying and resolving challenges that arise during the solution design and implementation phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: Maersk's global presence often means a culture that values diversity and inclusion, alongside a strong focus on operational excellence and customer service within the demanding logistics industry.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Speed and Quality: The parallel deal process requires delivering high-quality, validated solutions quickly without becoming a bottleneck.

• Navigating Complexity: Managing diverse LTL requirements, multiple Maersk products, and third-party integrations presents significant complexity.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Ensuring buy-in and accurate input from various departments (sales, pricing, operations, IT) can be challenging due to differing priorities.

• Evolving Technology & Services: Staying current with Maersk's expanding service offerings and the latest logistics technologies to design optimal solutions.

• Risk Management in Ambiguity: Identifying and mitigating risks effectively in situations where information may be incomplete or evolving rapidly.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deep Dive into Maersk Portfolio: Gain comprehensive knowledge of Maersk's extensive range of logistics services and products beyond LTL.

• Advanced Solution Design Techniques: Develop expertise in sophisticated modeling, simulation, and design thinking methodologies.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Work closely with experts in pricing, operations, technology, and customer experience to broaden understanding of the end-to-end logistics value chain.

• Industry Best Practices: Engage with industry trends and best practices in logistics solution design, potentially through training or industry events.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced leaders within Maersk's global logistics network.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge lies in the dynamic, fast-paced nature of the role, requiring a blend of strategic thinking, detailed execution, and exceptional communication to bridge different functional areas and ensure successful deal outcomes.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to design a solution for a complex LTL requirement with significant integration challenges. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on methodology, risk assessment, and results.)

• "How do you balance the need for speed in deal cycles with the requirement for thorough operational validation and technical assessment?" (Highlight process efficiency and risk management.)

• "Walk me through your approach to creating a Business Requirements Document (BRD) for a specialized logistics service. What are the key components you always include?" (Demonstrate structured documentation skills.)

• "Imagine a situation where sales has committed to a service level that operations deems difficult to achieve. How would you navigate this?" (Focus on communication, negotiation, and finding feasible alternatives.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Maersk's strategy in integrated logistics, and how does solution design contribute to it?" (Show research and strategic understanding.)

• "How do you ensure alignment with cross-functional teams (commercial, pricing, operations, IT) when developing a solution?" (Emphasize collaboration and communication.)

• "Describe a time you had to influence stakeholders to adopt your proposed solution. What was your approach?" (Focus on persuasion and stakeholder management.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame your portfolio projects as compelling narratives, highlighting the challenge, your innovative solution, and the positive impact.

• Visual Aids: Use diagrams, flowcharts, or simplified mockups to illustrate complex processes or technical integrations.

• Data-Driven: Quantify the benefits of your solutions whenever possible (e.g., increased efficiency, cost savings, revenue secured).

• Concise & Focused: Be prepared to present your key projects within a given timeframe, focusing on the most relevant aspects for the role.

• Anticipate Questions: Be ready to elaborate on any detail, assumption, or trade-off made during your design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare specific examples that showcase your ability to handle LTL complexity, technical integration, cross-functional collaboration, and risk management. Your portfolio should be ready to present in a structured, storytelling format.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Solution Design Manager position:

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

• Tailor your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights experience in solution design, LTL logistics, BRD creation, technical integration assessment, operational validation, and stakeholder management. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 impactful projects that best demonstrate your capabilities in designing complex logistics solutions. Be ready to articulate the challenges, your process, the solution, and the outcomes.

• Research Maersk: Understand Maersk's global logistics strategy, its focus on integrated solutions, and its position in the industry. Familiarize yourself with their service offerings, especially in LTL.

• Practice Interview Questions: Prepare answers for behavioral, situational, and technical questions, focusing on STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral examples and a structured approach for case studies.

⚠️ 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.

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