Solutions Design Manager - Des Plaines, IL

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Solutions Design Manager

Company: CEVA Logistics (CMA CGM Group)

Location: Des Plaines, Illinois, United States (Remote within NORTAM)

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Operations / Supply Chain / Solution Design

Date Posted: August 12, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Remote (within North America)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design and implementation of complex Air & Ocean Solutions (AOS) to support regional growth objectives for CEVA Logistics.

• Serve as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) for the Supply Chain Management platform, specifically Infor Nexus, within the North American region.

• Drive operational excellence and customer value by analyzing supply chains, optimizing processes, and developing innovative solutions.

• Partner cross-functionally with Business Development, Operations, Trade Management, and Product Teams to ensure seamless solution delivery and customer satisfaction.

• Manage the entire customer lifecycle from solution design and presentation to implementation, onboarding, training, and ongoing operational support.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is crucial for driving regional growth by translating customer needs into actionable, technology-enabled supply chain solutions. The emphasis on Infor Nexus positions this as a highly specialized role within CEVA's Air & Ocean Solutions division, requiring deep platform knowledge and process optimization expertise.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Solution Design & Development:

  • Collaborate with Business Development and Operations teams to design, develop, and implement customer-centric supply chain solutions that align with regional growth strategies.
  • Analyze customer supply chain networks, transportation processes, and operational workflows to identify key areas for optimization, cost reduction, and service enhancement.
  • Develop compelling proposals and solutions for RFQs, leveraging expertise in logistics, freight forwarding, and supply chain technologies.

• Platform Expertise & Implementation:

  • Act as the regional Subject Matter Expert (SME) for the Infor Nexus Supply Chain Management platform, providing guidance and support across the region.
  • Lead the implementation and configuration of Infor Nexus solutions, including managing EDI integrations, customer onboarding processes, and system enhancements.
  • Ensure successful system adoption and proficiency through effective training and development of operational documentation.

• Operational Support & Continuous Improvement:

  • Monitor the performance and compliance of implemented supply chain solutions, proactively identifying and resolving operational issues.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives by gathering feedback, analyzing performance data, and recommending system or process adjustments.
  • Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and user guides to ensure consistent operational execution and knowledge transfer.

• Customer Engagement & Presentation:

  • Conduct compelling customer demonstrations of CEVA's supply chain solutions and platform capabilities, tailoring presentations to specific client needs.

  • Serve as a key point of contact for Infor Nexus and AOS-related inquiries, providing ongoing operational and technical support to internal teams and external clients.

  • Facilitate effective communication and collaboration between customers, internal stakeholders, and technical teams throughout the solution lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical platform expertise (Infor Nexus) and strategic business acumen. Success in this role will depend on the ability to translate complex technical capabilities into tangible business value for clients, requiring strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Information Technology, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or a closely related field is required.

• A Master’s degree in a relevant discipline is strongly preferred, indicating a deeper understanding of strategic operations and management principles. Experience:

• Minimum of 5 to 8 years of progressive experience in the logistics, freight forwarding, or broader supply chain management industry.

• Proven track record of successfully leading and implementing solution design initiatives, with a focus on driving operational efficiency and cost reduction.

• Direct experience with supply chain management systems, specifically Infor Nexus, is essential. Required Skills:

• Supply Chain Management & Logistics: Deep understanding of global supply chain operations, freight forwarding (Air & Ocean), and logistics network design.

• Solution Design: Expertise in analyzing complex customer requirements and designing tailored, technology-driven supply chain solutions.

• Infor Nexus Proficiency: Demonstrated ability to implement, configure, and support Infor Nexus, including EDI integrations and user onboarding.

• Process Improvement Methodologies: Strong knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, or other process optimization frameworks to drive efficiency and value.

• Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to dissect complex operational challenges, analyze data, and develop effective, data-backed solutions.

• Stakeholder Management: Excellent interpersonal skills to effectively communicate, influence, and manage relationships with internal teams, customers, and external partners.

• Business Acumen: Understanding of business drivers, customer value propositions, and how supply chain solutions contribute to overall business objectives.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, and Word; experience with Visio for process mapping and documentation is highly beneficial.

Preferred Skills:

• Project Management: Experience managing complex implementation projects from initiation to completion.

• Business Analytics & Reporting: Ability to leverage data analytics tools and techniques to measure performance, identify trends, and support decision-making.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively in a matrixed organization, partnering with diverse teams to achieve common goals.

• Customer Presentation Skills: Experience delivering persuasive presentations to senior leadership and key decision-makers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a Master's degree, coupled with 5-8 years of experience, suggests this role is targeting mid-to-senior level professionals. The emphasis on Infor Nexus is a critical differentiator, making candidates with direct platform experience highly sought after.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Solution Design Case Studies: Showcase examples of complex supply chain solutions designed for clients, detailing the problem statement, CEVA's proposed solution, implementation approach, and quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, efficiency gains, service level improvements).

• Process Optimization Examples: Provide documentation or summaries of process improvement initiatives led, demonstrating the methodology used, challenges overcome, and the impact on operational efficiency or customer satisfaction.

• System Implementation Projects: Highlight experience with the implementation or configuration of supply chain management systems, particularly Infor Nexus. Detail the scope of work, integration points, and successful deployment outcomes.

• Data Analysis & Reporting Samples: Include examples of data analysis conducted to identify optimization opportunities or to track performance metrics. Visualizations or dashboards demonstrating key performance indicators (KPIs) are highly valuable.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Present examples of detailed workflow diagrams (e.g., using Visio) that map current-state processes and illustrate proposed future-state optimizations for logistics operations.

• Implementation Documentation: Demonstrate experience in creating clear and concise implementation plans, customer onboarding guides, and training materials for complex systems and processes.

• Performance Measurement Frameworks: Showcase an understanding of how to define, measure, and report on operational performance, including the establishment of relevant KPIs and reporting mechanisms.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare a portfolio that vividly demonstrates their ability to architect, implement, and optimize supply chain solutions using technology. The focus should be on quantifiable results and a clear understanding of process flows and system integrations, especially concerning Infor Nexus.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $162,415 - $194,899 annually.

• This range reflects the seniority of the role and the specialized skills required.

• A discretionary bonus is also eligible, providing an additional performance-based incentive. Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Multiple health plan options, including prescription, dental, and vision coverage.

• Health Savings Account (HSA) Contribution: Company contribution to an HSA to help offset healthcare costs.

• Insurance: Company-paid life insurance, accident insurance, and short-term/long-term disability coverage.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support services for personal and work-related challenges.

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with a company match, supporting long-term financial planning.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Flexible PTO programs, including company-paid holidays, promoting work-life balance.

• Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement program to support continuous learning and skill enhancement.

• Voluntary Benefits: Options for additional life insurance, AD&D coverage, critical illness insurance, identity theft protection, and legal plans.

Working Hours:

• Typically 40 hours per week, standard business hours, with flexibility expected due to the remote nature and global client base.

• Occasional travel within the region (North America) is required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for a Solutions Design Manager role with significant responsibilities in a major global logistics company. The comprehensive benefits package underscores CEVA's commitment to employee well-being and professional development. The remote work arrangement within North America offers significant flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Logistics and Supply Chain Management (part of the CMA CGM Group). CEVA Logistics is a global leader, ranking among the Top 5 global 3PL providers, specializing in contract logistics and transportation services.

Company Size: CEVA Logistics operates with over 110,000 employees globally across 1,500 sites in 170+ countries. This indicates a large, established, and globally integrated organization.

Founded: CEVA Logistics was formed in 2007 through the merger of TNT Logistics and EGL. As part of the CMA CGM Group, it benefits from the stability and resources of a major shipping conglomerate.

Team Structure:

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: The role requires extensive collaboration with Business Development, Operations, Trade Management, Product Teams, and potentially IT/engineering teams.

• Regional Focus: This position is part of a regional AOS (Air & Ocean Solutions) team, likely reporting to a Director or VP of Solution Design or Operations within the North American region.

• Global Integration: While regional in focus, the role interfaces with global solution design teams and leverages global best practices.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: The emphasis on analysis, performance monitoring, and continuous improvement suggests a data-centric approach to operations and solution design.

• Customer-Centric Solutions: The core function is to develop solutions that directly address customer needs and deliver tangible value, aligning with CEVA's mission to connect people, products, and providers.

• Process Optimization & Automation: CEVA promotes a culture of continuous improvement, focusing on streamlining workflows and leveraging technology for efficiency gains.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: CEVA's culture emphasizes growth, innovation, and employee empowerment within a dynamic, global environment. As part of the CMA CGM Group, it offers the scale and stability of a major player while striving for agility and customer focus. The "Rise in Motion" slogan highlights a commitment to career progression and dynamic work.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-to-senior level position within the operations and solution design function. It requires specialized expertise in supply chain technology (Infor Nexus) and a strategic approach to problem-solving and customer engagement.

Reporting Structure: The Solutions Design Manager likely reports into a regional leadership role, such as a Director of Solution Design, Director of Operations, or VP of Commercial Operations for Air & Ocean Solutions within North America. This structure places them in a key position to influence regional strategy and business development.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on revenue growth by designing and securing new business through compelling supply chain solutions. It also influences operational efficiency and customer retention by ensuring implemented solutions are effective, scalable, and continuously improved.

Growth Opportunities:

• Vertical Advancement: Progression to senior management roles such as Senior Solutions Design Manager, Director of Solution Design, or Head of Operations for specific business units or regions.

• Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific supply chain technologies, industries, or complex logistics challenges.

• Cross-Functional Moves: Opportunities to move into broader operational leadership, business development, or product management roles within CEVA or the CMA CGM Group.

• Global Mobility: As a global organization, CEVA offers potential for international assignments or exposure to diverse markets and operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: CEVA's explicit emphasis on employee growth ("Rise in Motion," "Your career is always on the move") suggests a strong internal development focus. This role is positioned as a potential stepping stone for significant career advancement within the logistics sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a remote position, allowing employees to work from home within North America. This offers significant flexibility and autonomy.

Office Location(s): While the role is remote, the mention of "Des Plaines, IL" in the title suggests a historical or administrative connection to that location, or perhaps a hub for some regional activities. However, the explicit "Remote within NORTAM" overrides a strict office requirement.

Workspace Context:

• Autonomy & Flexibility: Remote work necessitates self-discipline, effective time management, and the ability to work independently while staying connected with the team.

• Technology Reliance: Success will depend on a robust home office setup, reliable internet connectivity, and proficiency with collaboration tools.

• Virtual Collaboration: The team likely utilizes various digital platforms for communication, project management, and knowledge sharing, fostering a connected virtual work environment.

• Hybrid Collaboration: While primarily remote, regional travel is required, indicating opportunities for in-person team meetings, client engagements, and site visits.

Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week is the baseline. However, given the global nature of logistics and customer interactions, some flexibility may be required to accommodate different time zones and urgent operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The remote work arrangement is a significant benefit for work-life balance and geographic flexibility. Candidates should be prepared for a highly collaborative, yet independent, virtual work environment, with the understanding that occasional travel is part of the role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter call to assess basic qualifications, cultural fit, and salary expectations.

• Hiring Manager Interview: In-depth discussion with the hiring manager to evaluate technical skills, experience, and alignment with role responsibilities. Expect questions related to solution design methodologies, Infor Nexus, and supply chain optimization.

• Panel Interview/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present a case study from their portfolio or a hypothetical solution to a given problem. This assesses problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and presentation style. This stage often involves peers from Business Development, Operations, and potentially other Solution Design Managers.

• Cross-Functional Interviews: Interviews with key stakeholders from teams the Solutions Design Manager will collaborate with (e.g., Business Development, Operations) to assess collaboration and interpersonal skills.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss strategic alignment and long-term vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 2-3 of your strongest, most relevant projects that demonstrate your expertise in solution design, Infor Nexus implementation, and driving measurable results in logistics.

• Quantify Impact: Clearly articulate the business outcomes achieved for each project. Use metrics like cost savings, lead time reduction, efficiency improvements, or customer satisfaction scores.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, follow a clear story arc: the client's challenge, your proposed solution, the implementation process, and the final results.

• Highlight Infor Nexus Expertise: Explicitly detail your experience with Infor Nexus, including specific configurations, integrations, and problem-solving scenarios.

• Visual Aids: Use clear diagrams, charts, and screenshots where appropriate to illustrate complex processes or data. Be prepared to walk through these visually during a presentation.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study Practice: Be ready to analyze a supply chain scenario and propose a solution within a limited timeframe. Focus on identifying key pain points, proposing practical optimizations, and outlining implementation steps.

• Infor Nexus Scenarios: Anticipate questions about common challenges in implementing or using Infor Nexus, such as data integration issues, user adoption hurdles, or performance tuning.

• Stakeholder Management Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would handle difficult conversations with clients or internal teams, manage conflicting priorities, or gain buy-in for new solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes practical application of skills through portfolio presentation and case studies. Candidates should prepare thoroughly to demonstrate not only technical knowledge but also strategic thinking and effective communication.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Infor Nexus: This is the core Supply Chain Management platform for this role. Deep expertise in its functionalities, configuration, integration capabilities (especially EDI), and operational use is paramount.

• Microsoft Office Suite:

  • Excel: Advanced proficiency for data analysis, financial modeling, and creating reports.
  • PowerPoint: Essential for developing and delivering compelling client presentations and internal proposals.
  • Word: For creating SOPs, work instructions, and official documentation.

• Visio: Highly beneficial for creating process flow diagrams, workflow mapping, and illustrating system architectures.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Infor Nexus Analytics: Utilizing the reporting and analytics capabilities within Infor Nexus to monitor performance and identify trends.

• Business Intelligence Tools (Potential): While not explicitly mentioned, experience with BI tools like Tableau, Power BI, or similar platforms for enhanced data visualization and analysis would be advantageous.

• Data Analysis Techniques: Proficiency in analyzing large datasets to identify operational bottlenecks, cost drivers, and optimization opportunities.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems (e.g., Salesforce): While not directly managed, understanding how supply chain solutions integrate with CRM systems to support the sales pipeline and customer lifecycle is beneficial.

• EDI (Electronic Data Interchange): Critical for integrating Infor Nexus with customer and partner systems. Experience with mapping, troubleshooting, and managing EDI transactions is key.

• Workflow Automation Tools (Potential): Familiarity with any internal automation tools or scripting languages that might be used to enhance Infor Nexus functionality or streamline processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Infor Nexus as the primary platform is a critical requirement. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their hands-on experience with this system in detail, including its integration capabilities and troubleshooting common issues.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A commitment to understanding and exceeding customer expectations through tailored supply chain solutions and exceptional service.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: A drive to constantly seek out new methods, technologies, and process enhancements to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and deliver greater value.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: A belief in the power of working together across functions and geographies to achieve shared goals and support colleagues.

• Data-Driven Excellence: A dedication to using data and analytics to inform decisions, measure performance, and drive strategic improvements.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding high ethical standards and taking ownership of responsibilities to ensure reliability and trust.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Partnership: The role thrives on strong collaboration with Sales/Business Development, Operations, IT, and Global Solution Design teams, requiring open communication and mutual respect.

• Proactive Communication: Regularly sharing insights, updates, and potential challenges with stakeholders to ensure alignment and efficient problem-solving.

• Knowledge Sharing: Actively contributing to the team's collective knowledge base by sharing best practices, lessons learned, and expertise on Infor Nexus and solution design.

• Feedback Integration: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to foster a culture of continuous learning and refinement in processes and solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: CEVA's culture appears to be a blend of global corporate standards and a dynamic, growth-oriented approach, as highlighted by their "Rise in Motion" philosophy. The emphasis on collaboration and continuous improvement is central to their operational success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Global Supply Chains: Navigating the intricate and often volatile nature of international logistics, including regulatory changes, geopolitical events, and diverse customer requirements.

• Platform Integration & Customization: Ensuring seamless integration of Infor Nexus with various customer systems and adapting platform functionalities to meet unique business needs without compromising core stability.

• Managing Stakeholder Expectations: Balancing the needs and priorities of multiple internal teams (Sales, Operations) and external clients, particularly in a remote setting.

• Keeping Pace with Technology: Continuously learning and adapting to new features within Infor Nexus and emerging technologies in the supply chain and logistics space.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Infor Nexus Specialization: Opportunities to gain deeper expertise in advanced modules, configurations, and integration patterns of the Infor Nexus platform.

• Supply Chain Strategy Development: Exposure to strategic planning for global logistics networks, service offerings, and market expansion.

• Advanced Analytics & Optimization: Developing skills in leveraging data science and advanced analytics to drive more sophisticated supply chain optimizations.

• Leadership Development: Access to leadership training programs and mentorship opportunities within CEVA, preparing individuals for greater responsibility.

• Industry Exposure: Opportunities to attend industry conferences, workshops, and training sessions to stay abreast of best practices and network with peers.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges due to the complexity of global logistics and technology integration, but these challenges are directly linked to substantial growth opportunities for professionals eager to advance their careers in supply chain solution design.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you designed a complex supply chain solution that resulted in significant cost savings for a client. What was your process, and what were the key metrics you tracked?" (Focus on methodology, quantifiable results, and your role.)

• "How would you approach onboarding a new enterprise client onto the Infor Nexus platform, considering potential challenges with data integration and user adoption?" (Demonstrate your understanding of implementation best practices and change management.)

• "Imagine a scenario where Business Development has promised a client a capability that is technically challenging to implement within Infor Nexus. How would you navigate this situation?" (Showcase your problem-solving, negotiation, and technical expertise.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about CEVA Logistics and its position in the global supply chain market? How does our 'Rise in Motion' philosophy resonate with you?" (Research the company, its services, and its values.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with sales teams who may have aggressive timelines, and how do you ensure technical feasibility aligns with commercial promises?" (Highlight your ability to balance competing priorities and build strong cross-functional relationships.)

• "Describe your experience working in a remote environment. What strategies do you use to stay productive and connected with your team?" (Emphasize self-discipline, communication skills, and familiarity with remote collaboration tools.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: Frame your case studies as narratives. Clearly articulate the client's problem, your role in developing the solution, the steps taken, and the tangible benefits achieved.

• Focus on Impact: Quantify your achievements whenever possible. Use numbers and data to demonstrate the value you brought to previous roles and clients.

• Technical Depth (Infor Nexus): Be prepared to dive into the specifics of how you utilized Infor Nexus, including configuration details, integration methods, and any custom solutions you developed.

• Conciseness & Clarity: Respect the interviewer's time. Present your information clearly and efficiently, focusing on the most impactful aspects of your experience.

• Q&A Readiness: Anticipate follow-up questions about your projects, methodologies, and technical decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to demonstrate a strong understanding of supply chain principles, practical experience with Infor Nexus, and the ability to articulate complex solutions and their impact clearly and concisely.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Solutions Design Manager position:

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

• Tailor your Resume: Highlight specific experience with supply chain management, solution design, logistics (Air & Ocean), and crucially, your expertise with the Infor Nexus platform. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 impactful case studies demonstrating your ability to design, implement, and optimize supply chain solutions. Quantify results and be ready to present these visually.

• Research CEVA Logistics: Understand their services, global reach, key markets, and company culture, particularly their "Rise in Motion" philosophy.

• Practice Interview Questions: Prepare answers to behavioral, technical, and situational questions, focusing on your experience with Infor Nexus, process improvement, and stakeholder management. Practice presenting your portfolio.

⚠️ 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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