Warehouse Solutions Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Warehouse Solutions Design Manager

Company: GXO Logistics

Location: Northampton, ENG, NN1 5GE, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Operations Management / Supply Chain Design

Date Posted: April 20, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design and development of innovative warehouse solutions, translating complex operational challenges into efficient, scalable, and cost-effective designs.

• Manage end-to-end warehouse design projects, from initial concept and data analysis through to detailed layout creation and operational sign-off, ensuring alignment with customer requirements and GXO standards.

• Utilize advanced technical skills in 2D AutoCAD, 3D visualization, and data analysis to create intelligent warehouse layouts that drive efficiency, cost savings, and service excellence.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with Business Development, operations teams, and external specialists to ensure the successful implementation and operational robustness of designed solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a management-level individual contributor focused on the technical and strategic design of warehouse operations. The emphasis on "shaping the future of logistics" and "turning complex problems into smart, scalable solutions" indicates a strategic approach to operational design, rather than day-to-day operational management. The hybrid work arrangement suggests a need for strong self-management and effective communication.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Deliver expert support in data analysis, warehouse and supply-chain design, costings, proposals, and presentations, ensuring solutions are innovative, cost-effective, and operationally robust.

• Independently manage multiple warehouse design projects of varying size and complexity, meeting agreed standards and timescales with minimal supervision.

• Engage with current and prospective customers through meetings and site visits to gather requirements, analyze data, map processes/WMS flows, and identify improvement opportunities.

• Collaborate with Business Development, operational teams, and external specialists to develop, test, review, and gain operational and financial sign-off for end-to-end solutions.

• Support senior management and business development activities, including Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), contract inputs, customer presentations, industry engagement, and adherence to company standards and policies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical design, project management, and client-facing engagement. The emphasis on "independently manage multiple warehouse design projects" and "minimal supervision" indicates a senior individual contributor role requiring significant autonomy. The need to "support senior management and business development" points to a strategic advisory capacity.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Degree-calibre or equivalent, with a preference for Transport/Logistics.

Experience: Demonstrable experience in warehouse design across diverse projects and sectors, with hands-on warehousing and transport operational knowledge.

Required Skills:

• Warehouse design expertise across diverse projects and sectors.

• Hands-on warehousing and transport operational knowledge.

• Proficiency in 2D AutoCAD for creating intelligent layouts.

• Strong data analysis and interpretation skills for identifying operational opportunities.

• Experience with warehouse and supply chain design principles.

• Proficiency in Class simulation and MOST work standards.

• Advanced capability in Microsoft Excel for data modeling and analysis.

• Advanced capability in Microsoft PowerPoint for formal presentation delivery.

• Competence in Microsoft Visio for process mapping and WMS flows.

• Competence in Microsoft Access for data management.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with meticulous attention to detail.

• Pro-active, self-motivated, and a team player with leadership potential.

• Customer-focused approach with adaptability to fast-changing environments.

• Effective written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with 3D visualization tools for enhanced design representation.

• Familiarity with various Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and their integration.

• Knowledge of commercial practices within the logistics industry.

• Experience in developing costings, proposals, and customer presentations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a strong technical foundation in warehouse design, coupled with practical operational experience and advanced analytical and software skills. The inclusion of specific methodologies like MOST and Class simulation indicates a need for specialized domain knowledge in industrial engineering and operations research within logistics.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio showcasing diverse warehouse design projects, highlighting innovative solutions and their impact on operational efficiency.

• Include case studies detailing the process of translating customer requirements into robust, cost-effective warehouse layouts, emphasizing the use of AutoCAD and 3D visualization.

• Present examples of data analysis conducted to identify improvement opportunities, map processes, and define WMS flows.

Process Documentation:

• Provide evidence of structured approaches to project management for warehouse design initiatives, including planning, execution, and monitoring phases.

• Illustrate the methodology used for engaging with customers, gathering requirements, and translating them into technical design specifications.

• Detail the process for collaborating with cross-functional teams (Business Development, Operations) to ensure sign-off and operational feasibility of designs.

• Showcase the development of proposals, costings, and presentations that effectively communicate design solutions and their business benefits.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating practical application of design principles, analytical skills, and project management is crucial. Candidates should be prepared to articulate the processes behind their designs, quantify the impact of their solutions, and showcase proficiency with simulation and standards like MOST.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Competitive salary and package to be discussed during the telephone interview.

Benefits:

• 25 days of annual leave, plus bank holidays.

• Option to purchase additional annual leave days.

• Access to a workplace pension scheme.

• GXO University for continuous learning and skill development.

• Variety of high street discounts.

• Cycle to work scheme.

• Focus on internal promotions and career advancement opportunities.

Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, with flexibility expected for project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific salary details are not provided, the mention of a "competitive salary and package" and the detailed benefits package indicate a comprehensive offering for a management-level role. The note on "flexibility expected for project demands" aligns with the hybrid work arrangement and the nature of project-based work in solutions design.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Logistics and Supply Chain Services. GXO is a leading provider of cutting-edge supply chain solutions, managing goods efficiently through technology and services.

Company Size: Large Enterprise (GXO is a global leader with significant operations). This scale implies complex, multi-faceted projects and opportunities for exposure to diverse client needs and operational environments.

Founded: GXO Logistics was formed in 2020, spinning off from XPO Logistics. This relatively new entity is focused on rapid growth and innovation in the supply chain sector.

Team Structure:

• The Solutions Design team likely comprises specialists in various aspects of logistics engineering and design, including warehouse layout, automation, process optimization, and data analysis.

• Reporting structure is likely to be within a broader Operations or Engineering department, with a direct reporting line to a senior leader (e.g., Head of Solutions Design, Director of Engineering).

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is paramount, utilizing advanced analytics to understand current state operations and forecast future performance.

• Emphasis on lean principles and continuous improvement to drive efficiency and cost savings.

• Agile project management methodologies may be employed to manage multiple design projects concurrently.

• A focus on innovation and leveraging technology, including automation and advanced software, to create best-in-class solutions.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: GXO positions itself as an innovative and dynamic leader in logistics. The company culture likely values proactivity, problem-solving, and continuous learning. The emphasis on "energetic, innovative people" suggests an environment where contributions are recognized and growth is encouraged. The company's recent formation as a standalone entity may imply a drive for establishing its own identity and market leadership through technological advancement and efficient operations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-to-senior level position within the operations engineering and solutions design function. It requires specialized technical expertise combined with project management capabilities and the ability to engage with clients and internal stakeholders.

Reporting Structure: The position reports to a senior management figure within the Solutions Design or Engineering function, indicating a direct line of influence on strategic operational planning and client solutions. Collaboration will extend across Business Development, Operations, and potentially other technical departments.

Operations Impact: The Solutions Design Manager has a direct impact on GXO's ability to win new business and retain existing clients by creating optimal, cost-effective, and innovative warehouse solutions. Their designs directly influence operational efficiency, cost structures, service levels, and the adoption of new technologies, thereby contributing significantly to the company's revenue and profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of warehouse automation, advanced analytics, or specialized logistics sectors.

• Leadership: Progress into senior management roles such as Lead Solutions Designer, Head of Solutions Design, or Director of Operations Engineering, managing larger teams and more complex strategic initiatives.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Transition into roles within Business Development, Operations Management, or Strategic Planning, leveraging a strong understanding of operational design and client needs.

• Industry Influence: Become a thought leader within the logistics industry through contributions to GXO's innovation pipeline and potential engagement in industry forums or publications.

• Continuous Learning: Utilize GXO University resources and potential for professional certifications to stay abreast of the latest trends in logistics technology and design.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for growth within the specialized field of logistics solutions design, with opportunities for both technical leadership and broader management responsibilities. The company's emphasis on internal promotions and GXO University suggests a commitment to employee development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid working model, combining remote work with office-based collaboration. This suggests a modern work environment that values flexibility while recognizing the importance of in-person teamwork and client engagement.

Office Location(s): Primarily based in Northampton, with potential for travel to customer sites and other GXO facilities as required by project demands.

Workspace Context:

• The hybrid model necessitates a workspace that supports focused individual work (likely at home) and collaborative team activities (in the office). This could involve modern office setups with meeting rooms, collaborative zones, and access to necessary IT infrastructure.

• Access to GXO's internal systems, design software (AutoCAD, Visio), and data analytics tools will be critical.

• The environment likely encourages interaction with a diverse team of logistics professionals, fostering knowledge sharing and problem-solving through collective expertise.

Work Schedule: The standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week. However, the nature of project-based solutions design often requires flexibility to meet client deadlines and project milestones. This might involve occasional extended hours or weekend work during critical project phases, balanced by the flexibility of the hybrid arrangement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work environment is a key feature, requiring individuals to be self-disciplined and effective in managing their time and communication across different work settings. The expectation of travel for client meetings and site visits is typical for solutions design roles, ensuring a dynamic work experience.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application to assess core qualifications, experience in warehouse design, and technical skills (e.g., AutoCAD, MOST).

• Telephone Interview: A discussion with a hiring manager or recruiter to delve deeper into your experience, motivation, and understanding of logistics operations and solutions design. This may include behavioral questions.

• Technical Assessment/Case Study: Candidates may be asked to complete a practical exercise or case study related to warehouse layout design, data analysis, or process mapping. This will assess problem-solving skills, technical proficiency, and ability to apply concepts.

• Final Interview: A panel interview, potentially with senior management, to discuss strategic thinking, project management capabilities, client engagement skills, and cultural fit. This interview will likely involve presenting a portfolio or discussing past projects in detail.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase 3-5 of your most impactful warehouse design projects that demonstrate a range of skills and complexities.

• Structure Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the problem/objective, your role and approach, the methodologies used (e.g., AutoCAD, MOST, data analysis), the proposed solution, and the quantifiable results (e.g., efficiency gains, cost savings, space utilization improvements).

• Highlight Technical Proficiency: Visually demonstrate your skills with AutoCAD layouts, 3D visualizations, and process maps.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use data and metrics to showcase the ROI and benefits of your designs.

• Tailor to GXO: Understand GXO's business and tailor your presentation to highlight how your skills and experience align with their strategic goals in logistics and supply chain solutions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Problem Decomposition: Be prepared to break down complex operational challenges into manageable parts.

• Data Interpretation: Practice analyzing hypothetical datasets related to warehouse operations (e.g., throughput, inventory levels, labor costs) and drawing actionable insights.

• Design Thinking: Think through the principles of efficient warehouse layout, material flow, and automation integration.

• Presentation Skills: Practice articulating your design process, rationale, and projected outcomes clearly and concisely, especially under time constraints.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be rigorous, with a strong emphasis on practical application of skills and a proven track record. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly articulates the candidate's process, technical skills, and impact is essential for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 2D AutoCAD: Essential for creating detailed warehouse layouts, facility plans, and equipment placement. Proficiency in creating accurate and scalable drawings is expected.

• 3D Visualization Software: Used for creating realistic renderings and walkthroughs of proposed warehouse designs, aiding in client understanding and internal reviews.

• Microsoft Visio: For process mapping, workflow diagrams, and illustrating WMS flows.

• Class Simulation Software: Critical for modeling warehouse operations, testing different scenarios, and validating design performance before implementation.

• MOST (Maynard Operation Sequence Technique) or similar work-measurement systems: Used for analyzing and standardizing manual tasks, optimizing labor efficiency, and establishing performance benchmarks.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Microsoft Excel (Advanced): For complex data analysis, financial modeling, cost-benefit analysis, and performance reporting.

• Microsoft Access: For managing and querying databases related to operational data, inventory, and performance metrics.

• Power BI or Tableau (Potential): While not explicitly mentioned, experience with business intelligence and data visualization tools would be advantageous for creating dynamic dashboards and reports.

CRM & Automation:

• WMS (Warehouse Management System) knowledge: Understanding of how different WMS function and integrate is crucial for designing solutions that work within existing or proposed systems.

• ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system awareness: General understanding of how warehouse operations integrate with broader ERP systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with CAD software and simulation tools is non-negotiable. The explicit mention of Class simulation and MOST work standards indicates a requirement for specialized industrial engineering skills for optimizing operational performance and labor efficiency.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation: Encouraging creative solutions to complex logistics challenges, embracing new technologies and methodologies.

• Efficiency: A core driver, focused on optimizing processes, reducing costs, and maximizing resource utilization.

• Customer Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting customer needs through tailored and effective supply chain solutions.

• Collaboration: Fostering teamwork across departments to ensure comprehensive and well-supported solutions.

• Data-Driven: Valuing insights derived from data analysis to inform design decisions and measure performance.

• Continuous Improvement: A commitment to ongoing learning and refining processes and designs.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working closely with Business Development to understand client requirements and sales pipeline, and with Operations to ensure practical feasibility and smooth handover of designs.

• Stakeholder Management: Effectively communicating design concepts, rationale, and benefits to a diverse range of stakeholders, including clients, senior management, and operational staff.

• Feedback Loops: Openness to feedback from operational teams and clients to refine designs and ensure alignment with real-world conditions.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise within the solutions design team and broader organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be geared towards high performance, innovation, and a strong customer-centric approach within the logistics sector. Team members are expected to be proactive, collaborative, and adept at driving efficiency through data and smart design.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Innovation with Practicality: Designing cutting-edge solutions while ensuring they are cost-effective, operationally feasible, and meet client budgets and timelines.

• Managing Multiple Complex Projects: Juggling diverse project requirements, deadlines, and stakeholder expectations simultaneously.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying current with rapid advancements in warehouse automation, robotics, and supply chain technology to integrate them effectively into designs.

• Data Complexity and Availability: Dealing with potentially incomplete or varied data sets from different clients and sources, requiring robust analytical skills to derive meaningful insights.

• Client Expectations: Managing client expectations regarding scope, cost, and delivery timelines for complex design projects.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Simulation and Modeling: Deepening expertise in simulation software (Class) and work-measurement techniques (MOST) to enhance design validation.

• Automation and Robotics Integration: Gaining knowledge of emerging automation technologies and their application in warehouse design.

• Supply Chain Strategy: Broadening understanding of end-to-end supply chain dynamics to better inform warehouse design decisions.

• Client Engagement and Presentation Skills: Developing advanced communication and presentation techniques for effectively selling design concepts to clients.

• Project Management: Enhancing skills in managing complex, multi-disciplinary projects within a fast-paced environment.

• GXO University: Leveraging internal training programs for continuous skill development and potential certifications in logistics, engineering, or management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents intellectual challenges in optimizing complex systems and requires continuous learning to keep pace with technological advancements in the logistics industry. Growth opportunities are strong for those who excel in problem-solving and strategic design.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex warehouse design project you managed from conception to implementation. What were the key challenges, your approach, and the measurable outcomes?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and quantifiable results).

• "How do you approach data analysis to identify opportunities for warehouse efficiency improvements? Can you provide an example using specific metrics?" (Demonstrate analytical rigor and data-driven decision-making).

• "Walk me through your process for using AutoCAD and simulation tools (like Class) to design a warehouse layout. What factors do you prioritize?" (Showcase technical proficiency and design methodology).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about GXO Logistics and our role in the supply chain industry? How do you see your skills contributing to our mission?" (Demonstrate research and alignment).

• "Describe a time you had to collaborate with diverse teams (e.g., Sales, Operations) to achieve a common goal. What was your role and the outcome?" (Assess teamwork and cross-functional collaboration).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame each portfolio piece as a narrative – the challenge, your solution, and the impact.

• Visual Aids: Use clear, concise slides with strong visuals (drawings, charts, data summaries) to support your points.

• Quantify Everything: Be ready to back up claims with numbers – percentage improvements, cost savings, throughput increases.

• Process Clarity: Clearly articulate the steps you took in each project, from initial data gathering to final design.

• Engage Your Audience: Be prepared to answer questions and discuss your design choices dynamically, showing your expertise and confidence.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of technical expertise, project management capability, strategic thinking, and strong communication skills. The portfolio is a critical tool for substantiating claims and showcasing practical experience.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your CV to highlight achievements and responsibilities directly related to warehouse design, AutoCAD, data analysis, project management, and simulation (Class, MOST). Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of 3-5 key warehouse design projects. For each, prepare a concise summary that includes the problem, your solution, methodologies used, and quantifiable outcomes. Ensure you can clearly articulate your design process.

• Research GXO: Familiarize yourself with GXO Logistics' services, recent news, and their approach to supply chain solutions. Understand their competitive landscape and strategic priorities.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to answer behavioral, technical, and situational questions, focusing on STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions and using your portfolio as evidence for technical and project-based inquiries.

⚠️ 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.