Solutions Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Solutions Design Manager

Company: Culina Group

Location: Lutterworth, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Revenue Operations / Sales Operations / GTM Strategy

Date Posted: 2026-05-22

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end design and optimization of integrated logistics solutions, encompassing both warehouse and transport operations, to support new business acquisition, renewals, and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Leverage advanced data analysis, modelling, and commercial acumen to develop practical, cost-effective, and service-led supply chain solutions that align with strategic business objectives.

• Drive operational excellence by evaluating and integrating automation, technology, and efficient process methodologies across warehousing and distribution networks.

• Foster strong cross-functional collaboration with sales, operations, engineering, IT, finance, and direct customer engagement to ensure comprehensive solution viability and robust business cases.

• Contribute to the strategic direction of supply chain operations through network redesign, expansion planning, and the development of automation roadmaps.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is framed as a "Solutions Design Manager" within a logistics provider (Culina Group), which directly aligns with the core functions of Revenue Operations and Sales Operations. The emphasis on designing, modelling, and optimizing logistics solutions for new business, renewals, and continuous improvement, coupled with stakeholder engagement and commercial contribution, points to a GTM-focused operations role. The need to translate complex data into cost-effective and service-led solutions is a hallmark of modern operations management, demanding strong analytical and strategic planning skills.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design comprehensive integrated warehouse and transport solutions, including detailed warehouse layouts, optimized storage strategies, efficient picking methods, automation concepts, and effective labour models.

• Develop sophisticated transport network designs, encompassing trunking, cross-docking, final mile delivery, multi-drop routes, and strategic fleet management.

• Build and maintain detailed capacity, throughput, routing, and cost models using advanced tools such as Excel, Power BI, WMS/TMS data, routing software (e.g., Paragon), and CAD.

• Conduct in-depth analysis of customer data, including volumes, SKUs, order profiles, delivery patterns, and geographical data, to inform solution design.

• Evaluate and assess the Return on Investment (ROI) and operational impact of automation and technology solutions, such as Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS), advanced TMS, and route optimization software.

• Lead solution design workstreams for tenders, Requests for Proposals (RFPs), contract renewals, and ongoing optimization projects, ensuring timely and accurate delivery.

• Present well-articulated and commercially focused proposals to senior stakeholders and clients, clearly demonstrating the value and viability of proposed solutions.

• Support mobilization teams to ensure seamless transitions from the design phase to live operational execution, collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams.

• Develop robust cost models, provide critical pricing inputs, and construct compelling business cases to justify proposed logistics solutions.

• Proactively identify opportunities for cost reduction, efficiency gains, and service level improvements within existing and proposed operational frameworks.

• Contribute to wider strategic initiatives, including network redesign, operational expansion, and the development of long-term automation roadmaps.

• Utilize data insights to continuously refine, challenge, and enhance the quality and effectiveness of designed solutions.

• Develop and maintain standardized tools, templates, and modelling frameworks to ensure consistency and best practices in solution design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The listed responsibilities clearly indicate a need for a candidate who can bridge the gap between strategic planning and tactical execution in logistics operations. The emphasis on data analysis, modelling, and cost generation makes this role central to the commercial success of new deals and the ongoing profitability of existing contracts, aligning it strongly with Sales Operations and Revenue Operations functions that support growth and efficiency.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business, or a related quantitative field is preferred.

Experience:

• 5-10 years of progressive experience in logistics, warehousing, transport operations, or supply chain design.

• Proven track record in designing and implementing complex logistics solutions, including experience with warehouse layouts and transportation networks.

Required Skills:

• Solution Design: Expertise in conceptualizing and detailing integrated warehouse and transport logistics solutions.

• Logistics Modelling: Advanced proficiency in building and utilizing capacity, throughput, cost, and routing models.

• Data Analysis & Interpretation: Strong ability to analyze complex datasets (volumes, SKUs, order profiles, etc.) and translate them into actionable insights and robust models.

• Commercial Acumen: Deep understanding of cost structures, pricing inputs, business case development, and ROI assessment within the logistics industry.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with internal teams (sales, operations, engineering, IT, finance) and external customers.

• Project Leadership: Proven ability to lead workstreams, manage multiple priorities, and drive projects to successful completion within defined timelines.

• Cost Modelling: Competence in developing detailed cost models and pricing inputs for logistics services.

• Supply Chain Strategy: Understanding of broader supply chain principles, network design, and automation strategies.

• Proficiency in Advanced Excel: Expert-level skills in Excel for data manipulation, modelling, and financial analysis.

• Proficiency in Power BI: Experience in using Power BI for data visualization, dashboard creation, and reporting.

Preferred Skills:

• Warehouse Layout Design (CAD): Experience using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software for warehouse space planning and layout design.

• Transport/Network Modelling Software: Familiarity with specialized routing software such as Paragon or similar.

• Automation & Technology Evaluation: Knowledge of various automation solutions (AMRs, AS/RS) and transport technologies (TMS, route optimization) and their ROI implications.

• SQL: Experience with SQL for data extraction and manipulation from databases.

• Industry Experience: Specific experience within 3PL, retail distribution, e-commerce logistics, FMCG supply chains, or manufacturing environments.

• WMS/TMS Data Analysis: Ability to extract and analyze data from Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and Transport Management Systems (TMS).

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience level of 5-10 years suggests a mid-to-senior level role, indicating the expectation of independent work and significant contribution to strategic initiatives. The emphasis on advanced data and modelling capabilities, coupled with commercial awareness and stakeholder engagement, is critical for success in this operations-focused GTM role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Solution Design Case Studies: Showcase detailed examples of integrated warehouse and transport solutions designed, including problem statements, design approaches, implemented strategies, and quantifiable outcomes.

• Data Modelling & Analysis Examples: Provide samples of complex data models (Excel, Power BI dashboards) that effectively analyze logistics data (volumes, costs, efficiency metrics) and derive actionable insights.

• Cost Modelling & Business Case Documentation: Include anonymized examples of cost models, pricing inputs, and business cases developed to support logistics proposals, demonstrating financial robustness and ROI justification.

• Process Optimization Documentation: Present documentation of process improvements or redesigns, highlighting the methodology used, the challenges overcome, and the resulting efficiency gains or service level enhancements.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate experience in mapping current-state logistics workflows, identifying bottlenecks, and designing optimized future-state processes for warehousing and transport.

• Implementation & Automation Planning: Exhibit understanding of how to plan for the implementation of designed solutions, including considerations for technology integration, automation deployment, and change management.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Show examples of how performance metrics were defined, tracked, and analyzed post-implementation to validate solution effectiveness and identify areas for continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Solutions Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just list responsibilities but visually and quantitatively demonstrate the candidate's ability to design, model, and justify complex logistics solutions. The focus should be on tangible results and the strategic thinking behind the designs.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Annual Leave: Competitive holiday entitlement of 25 days plus 8 bank holidays, offering excellent work-life balance.

• Life Assurance: A generous policy providing coverage of 4 times your annual salary, offering financial security for your loved ones.

• Wellness Support: Comprehensive access to an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) providing confidential 24/7 counselling and legal information services.

• Eye Care Vouchers: Benefits that include free eye tests and discounts on prescription glasses, promoting employee health and well-being.

• Reward & Recognition: A structured program to acknowledge and reward employees for exceptional performance, long service, and going the extra mile.

• Everyday Discounts: Access to a benefit platform offering a wide range of discounts with over 50 retailers, providing savings on daily expenses.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week, with potential for flexibility depending on project demands and client needs. The role is primarily on-site, necessitating availability during core business hours for team collaboration and client interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical market rates for similar roles in the UK. The benefits package is comprehensive and aligns with industry standards for large organizations, emphasizing employee well-being and recognition.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Food & Drinks Logistics (3PL - Third-Party Logistics)

Company Size: Culina Group is a significant player in the UK logistics market, employing a substantial workforce across multiple sites. This indicates a structured, professional environment with established processes and a strong operational focus.

Founded: (Information not provided in raw data) Culina Group has grown significantly over the years, indicating a company with a history of expansion and a forward-thinking approach to logistics services.

Team Structure:

• Business Development Excellence Team: This role sits within a specialized team focused on designing and refining logistics solutions. The team likely comprises individuals with expertise in various aspects of supply chain design, data analysis, and commercial strategy.

• Reporting Structure: The Solutions Design Manager will likely report to a Head of Business Development Excellence or a similar senior manager within the commercial or operations strategy function.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role demands extensive collaboration with Sales (for new business and renewals), Operations (for operational feasibility and implementation), Engineering (for automation and infrastructure), IT (for system integration and data), Finance (for costing and business cases), and directly with Customers.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: The emphasis on data analysis, modelling, and ROI assessment underscores a commitment to evidence-based solutions.

• Integrated Solution Design: A core methodology involves creating holistic solutions that seamlessly integrate warehouse and transport operations.

• Commercial & Service Focus: Solutions are designed not only for efficiency and cost-effectiveness but also to meet and exceed customer service level agreements (SLAs).

• Continuous Improvement: There's a clear mandate to use insights from data and operational feedback to refine existing solutions and improve future designs.

Company Website: culina.co.uk

📝 Enhancement Note: Culina Group's position as a leading 3PL provider suggests a dynamic environment where efficiency, cost management, and customer service are paramount. The "winning culture" mentioned indicates an emphasis on performance, collaboration, and employee development.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a management-level position within the operations and business development support functions. It requires a blend of technical expertise in logistics design and modelling, combined with leadership and commercial skills. The role is pivotal in securing new business and optimizing existing operations, placing it at a critical juncture for driving revenue and efficiency.

Reporting Structure: The Solutions Design Manager reports into a senior leadership role within the Business Development Excellence team, likely a Director or Head of Department. This position will also have significant dotted-line reporting and collaboration with Sales leadership, Operations Directors, and potentially IT/Engineering leads.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct and significant impact on the company's revenue and profitability. By designing cost-effective, scalable, and high-service logistics solutions, this manager influences the viability of new contracts, the retention of existing clients, and the overall efficiency and competitiveness of Culina Group's offerings. They are instrumental in translating commercial opportunities into operational realities.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Progression to senior management roles within Business Development Excellence, such as Head of Solutions Design, Director of Operations Strategy, or potentially into broader operational leadership roles.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like automation strategy, network optimization, or advanced logistics modelling.

• Commercial Strategy: Transition into roles with a stronger commercial focus, such as commercial management or strategic account management, leveraging their deep understanding of logistics solutions.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunities to move into senior operational management roles, project management leadership, or even client-side consulting roles within the logistics sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Solutions Design Manager" title, coupled with the responsibilities, positions this role as a key contributor to the company's growth strategy. The career path likely involves increasing strategic influence and leadership scope within the operations and commercial functions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as "On-site," indicating a primary work location within Culina Group's facilities, likely in Lutterworth. This suggests a professional office environment that supports collaboration and focused work.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Lutterworth, United Kingdom (Coventry Road, LE17 4XH). This is a central location within the UK, facilitating access to various operational sites and client locations.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect an office setting designed to facilitate interaction with sales teams, operations managers, and other design specialists. Open-plan areas or designated meeting spaces are probable.

• Tools & Technology: Access to necessary software and hardware, including high-performance computers for modelling (CAD, Excel, Power BI), potentially access to WMS/TMS environments, and standard office productivity tools.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular team meetings, project reviews, and ad-hoc discussions with colleagues to brainstorm solutions and address challenges. The role also involves frequent interaction with external stakeholders, including clients.

Work Schedule: A standard full-time schedule of approximately 40 hours per week is anticipated, with the understanding that project deadlines or client demands may occasionally require extended hours. The on-site nature ensures consistent availability for team collaboration and face-to-face client engagements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" designation is critical for this role, emphasizing the need for physical presence for collaboration, client meetings, and direct engagement with operational realities. The Lutterworth location is strategic for a national logistics provider.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A brief call with HR or a recruiter to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A more in-depth discussion with the hiring manager (likely Head of Business Development Excellence) focusing on operational experience, solution design philosophy, and leadership style.

• Technical Assessment/Case Study: Candidates will likely be asked to present a portfolio showcasing previous work and/or complete a technical assessment or case study related to logistics solution design, data modelling, or cost analysis. This is where the ability to translate complex data into practical solutions will be evaluated.

• Cross-Functional Interview: An interview with key stakeholders from Sales, Operations, or Engineering to assess collaboration skills, understanding of different functional needs, and ability to influence.

• Final Interview/Panel: A final discussion with senior leadership to confirm suitability for the role and discuss strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each case study, clearly state the problem, the solution designed, the tools/methods used, and – most importantly – the quantifiable results (e.g., % cost reduction, % efficiency increase, improved service levels).

• Showcase Diversity: Include examples of both warehouse and transport solutions, and demonstrate experience with different types of clients or industries if possible.

• Highlight Analytical Rigor: Clearly explain the data sources, analytical techniques, and modelling approaches used. Visualizations (charts, graphs) are highly effective.

• Demonstrate Commercial Thinking: Show how your solutions address profitability, ROI, and customer value propositions.

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by the key skills demonstrated. Be prepared to walk through specific examples verbally.

Challenge Preparation:

• Data Interpretation: Be ready to analyze a hypothetical logistics scenario and outline how you would approach designing a solution, including the data you would need and the models you would build.

• Costing & Pricing: Prepare to discuss how you would develop cost models and provide pricing inputs for a given logistics service.

• Automation Justification: Practice explaining the ROI and operational benefits of specific automation technologies in a logistics context.

• Stakeholder Communication: Be ready to articulate a complex solution to different audiences (e.g., a technical operations manager vs. a commercial sales director).

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a role like this will heavily emphasize practical application and problem-solving. A strong portfolio demonstrating tangible results from previous solution design work is non-negotiable.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft Excel: Advanced proficiency is critical for data manipulation, complex modelling, financial analysis, and cost breakdown.

• Microsoft Power BI: Essential for creating interactive dashboards, visualizations, and reports to communicate insights from logistics data.

• CAD Software: Experience with tools like AutoCAD or similar for warehouse layout design and space planning.

• Routing Software: Familiarity with specialized transport optimization and routing software, such as Paragon, or similar solutions.

Analytics & Reporting:

• WMS/TMS Data: Ability to extract, analyze, and interpret data from Warehouse Management Systems and Transport Management Systems to inform solution design and performance analysis.

• SQL: Preferred skill for direct data querying and manipulation from databases, enabling more robust analysis.

• Data Visualization Tools: Beyond Power BI, any experience with other visualization tools can be beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Understanding of Automation Technologies: Knowledge of various warehouse automation solutions (AMRs, AS/RS) and transport automation (route optimization, TMS functionalities).

• Integration Concepts: Awareness of how different systems (WMS, TMS, ERP, CRM) integrate and the implications for data flow and solution design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily weighted towards data analysis, modelling, and visualization tools, reflecting the analytical nature of the role. Proficiency in Excel and Power BI is non-negotiable, with CAD and routing software being key domain-specific requirements.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Data-Driven: A strong emphasis on using data to inform decisions, validate designs, and measure outcomes. Operations professionals are expected to be analytical and evidence-based.

• Efficiency & Optimization: A core drive to find the most efficient and cost-effective ways to operate, continuously seeking opportunities for improvement and automation.

• Customer Focus: Solutions are designed with the client's needs and service requirements at the forefront, ensuring that operational efficiency translates into tangible customer benefits.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: A culture that values working effectively across departments (Sales, Operations, IT, Engineering) to achieve common goals and deliver integrated solutions.

• Commercial Mindset: An understanding that operational decisions have a direct impact on the company's profitability and commercial success.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role necessitates seamless collaboration with sales to understand client needs, operations to ensure feasibility, and other departments for technical and financial input.

• Proactive Communication: Open and transparent communication is key, especially when presenting complex solutions or negotiating design parameters.

• Problem-Solving Orientation: A shared approach to tackling challenges collectively, leveraging diverse expertise to find the best solutions.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages sharing best practices, lessons learned, and innovative ideas within the Business Development Excellence team and across the wider organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Culina Group's stated "winning culture" suggests an environment that rewards high performance, collaboration, and continuous improvement. The values emphasized are typical of successful operations and GTM support teams.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Cost vs. Service: A perpetual challenge in logistics design is finding the optimal balance between delivering high levels of customer service and managing costs effectively. Solutions must be both economically viable and operationally excellent.

• Data Quality & Availability: Working with diverse customer data sets can present challenges in terms of data quality, completeness, and accessibility, requiring robust data cleansing and validation processes.

• Integration of New Technologies: Evaluating and proposing the integration of novel automation and technology solutions requires a deep understanding of their practical application, ROI, and implementation complexities.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Gaining consensus and buy-in from various internal departments and external clients on proposed solutions, each with potentially different priorities and perspectives.

• Pace of Change: The logistics industry is constantly evolving with new technologies, customer demands, and economic pressures, requiring continuous learning and adaptation of design methodologies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Modelling Techniques: Opportunities to delve deeper into sophisticated modelling, simulation, and optimization techniques.

• Emerging Technologies: Staying abreast of and gaining expertise in the latest logistics automation, AI, and data analytics technologies.

• Strategic Supply Chain Planning: Developing a broader understanding of end-to-end supply chain strategy and network design.

• Commercial & Negotiation Skills: Enhancing skills in business development, proposal writing, and client negotiation.

• Leadership Development: Formal and informal opportunities to develop leadership capabilities, team management, and strategic influence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the complexity and strategic importance of the role. The growth opportunities demonstrate a clear path for professional development within the operations and commercial functions of a large logistics organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex logistics solution you designed from scratch. What were the key challenges, your approach, and the quantifiable outcomes?" (Focus on structure: Problem -> Analysis -> Design -> Implementation -> Results)

• "How do you approach building a business case for a significant investment in warehouse automation?" (Highlight ROI, risk assessment, operational benefits, and stakeholder buy-in)

• "Imagine a client provides you with incomplete or inconsistent data for a new contract bid. What steps would you take to proceed with designing a viable solution?" (Focus on data validation, assumptions, and risk mitigation)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Culina Group and our position in the UK logistics market?" (Research their recent news, market share, and strategic initiatives)

• "How would you describe your ideal working relationship with a sales team?" (Focus on partnership, mutual understanding, and shared goals)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame each case study as a narrative. Start with the client's challenge, explain your innovative solution, detail the process, and conclude with the impactful results.

• Visual Aids: Use clear, concise slides with charts, graphs, and diagrams to illustrate your designs, data analysis, and cost models. Avoid text-heavy slides.

• Focus on Quantifiable Impact: For every project, be prepared to discuss specific metrics and ROI. Use numbers to demonstrate your value.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific design choices, modelling assumptions, or data sources. Be prepared to defend your methodology.

• Tailor to Culina: If possible, subtly weave in how your experience and approach align with Culina Group's known strengths or market position.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating analytical rigor, commercial thinking, and the ability to translate complex data into tangible, valuable logistics solutions. The portfolio is your primary tool for showcasing this.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Culina Group careers portal.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 of your strongest case studies that best demonstrate your experience in integrated warehouse and transport solution design, data modelling, cost analysis, and quantifiable results. Ensure these examples cover a range of complexities and challenges.

• Tailor Your CV: Highlight keywords and responsibilities from your past roles that directly align with the job description, such as "solution design," "logistics modelling," "CAD," "Power BI," "cost modelling," "stakeholder engagement," and "3PL experience." Quantify your achievements wherever possible.

• Prepare Your Presentation: Practice walking through your portfolio with a focus on clear storytelling, data visualization, and articulating the commercial impact of your solutions. Be ready to explain your methodologies and defend your assumptions.

• Research Culina Group: Understand their services, market position, recent news, and any publicly available information on their operational strategies or technology investments. This will help you tailor your responses 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.