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 / Logistics / Supply Chain Design

Date Posted: May 19, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design and development of innovative, best-in-class warehouse and supply chain solutions, focusing on optimizing operational efficiency and driving cost savings.

• Utilize advanced 2D AutoCAD and 3D visualization tools to create intelligent warehouse layouts, from manual operations to sophisticated automation systems.

• Manage multiple complex warehouse design projects concurrently, from initial data analysis and customer requirement gathering through to final operational and financial sign-off.

• Collaborate extensively with cross-functional teams including Business Development, operational teams, and external specialists to ensure robust and implementable solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a "Manager" within the Solutions Design function, indicating a need for project leadership and potentially team oversight, even if not explicitly stated as managing direct reports. The emphasis on "independently manage multiple warehouse design projects" suggests a senior individual contributor or a lead role with significant autonomy. The focus on "warehouse solutions design" places it firmly within the GTM (Go-To-Market) enablement and operational efficiency space, bridging the gap between sales/business development and operational execution.

📈 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, analyse 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 KPI development, contract input, customer presentations, industry engagement, and adherence to company standards and policies.

• Utilize 2D AutoCAD for creating detailed warehouse layouts and 3D visualization tools for presenting proposed designs to stakeholders.

• Perform detailed process analysis, including mapping current state workflows and WMS flows, to identify bottlenecks and opportunities for optimization.

• Develop comprehensive costings and proposals that clearly articulate the value proposition and financial benefits of proposed warehouse solutions.

• Ensure all designed solutions are operationally sound, considering factors like labor, automation, material handling, and IT integration.

• Contribute to business development efforts by presenting solutions to potential clients and supporting the creation of compelling proposals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a role focused on the pre-sales and early-stage implementation design of logistics solutions. This involves a blend of technical design, analytical rigor, project management, and customer-facing communication, all within the context of optimizing warehouse operations for GXO's clients.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Degree-caliber qualification or equivalent, with a preference for a degree in Transport, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Industrial Engineering, or a related field. Experience:

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

• Proven experience in managing multiple complex design projects simultaneously with minimal supervision.

• Experience with Class simulation and MOST work standards is essential for operational analysis and efficiency benchmarking. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in 2D AutoCAD for detailed layout design and 3D visualization tools for presentation.

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

• Expertise in data analysis, process analysis, and mapping (including WMS flows).

• Advanced capability in Microsoft Excel for data manipulation and financial modeling.

• Skilled in Microsoft PowerPoint for developing and delivering compelling presentations.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Visio for process flow and workflow diagramming.

• Experience in developing costings, proposals, and business cases for logistics solutions.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for effective stakeholder engagement.

• Ability to work proactively, as a self-motivated team player with leadership potential.

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

• Hands-on experience in warehousing and transport operations.

• Familiarity with simulation software beyond Class, such as Arena or FlexSim, for advanced modeling.

• Knowledge of various automation technologies and their integration into warehouse environments.

• Experience with WMS (Warehouse Management System) implementation or configuration.

• Understanding of Lean principles and Six Sigma methodologies for process improvement.

• Commercial acumen and experience in contract input or KPI definition.

• Capability in Microsoft Access for database management.

• Formal presentation delivery skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize a strong technical foundation in design tools (AutoCAD, 3D viz) and analytical software (Excel, Visio), coupled with practical operational knowledge (Class, MOST) and soft skills like communication and project management. The "degree-calibre or equivalent" phrasing allows for extensive relevant experience to substitute for formal higher education.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a track record of successful warehouse design projects, showcasing innovative solutions that led to tangible improvements in efficiency, cost savings, or service levels.

• Include case studies that detail the problem statement, the design process undertaken, the tools and methodologies used (e.g., AutoCAD, data analysis, simulation), and the quantifiable results achieved.

• Showcase examples of process mapping and workflow analysis, particularly related to warehouse operations and WMS integration.

• Present examples of costings and proposals developed for logistics solutions, highlighting how financial benefits were articulated and justified.

• Evidence of managing projects from initial concept through to stakeholder sign-off, demonstrating project management capabilities. Process Documentation:

• Ability to document complex warehouse processes and WMS flows clearly and concisely for stakeholder understanding and operational implementation.

• Experience in developing standard operating procedures (SOPs) or design guidelines for warehouse operations.

• Proficiency in creating visual documentation, such as process flow diagrams, layout plans, and system architecture overviews.

• Capability to document the rationale behind design decisions, including trade-offs considered and justifications for chosen approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a solutions design role, the portfolio is critical. It needs to provide concrete evidence of past performance in designing and delivering optimized warehouse solutions. This means focusing on the "how" and "what" of their design work, backed by data and clear explanations of process.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• While a specific salary range is not provided, a competitive salary and package will be discussed during the telephone interview. Based on industry benchmarks for a Warehouse Solutions Design Manager with 5-10 years of experience in the UK, particularly in logistics hubs like Northampton, a typical range would be approximately £50,000 - £70,000 per annum. This estimate considers the specialist skills required (AutoCAD, Class, MOST), project management responsibilities, and the hybrid work model. Benefits:

• 25 days of annual leave, plus bank holidays, offering a good work-life balance.

• Option to buy additional leave, providing further flexibility.

• Access to a workplace pension scheme to support long-term financial planning.

• GXO University provides opportunities for continuous learning, skill development, and gaining qualifications at a comfortable pace.

• A variety of high street discounts, offering savings on everyday purchases.

• Cycle to Work scheme, promoting sustainable commuting and employee well-being.

• Emphasis on internal promotions, indicating a clear career progression path within the company.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses or other incentives, to be discussed during the interview process. Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, aligning with full-time employment. The role offers a hybrid working arrangement, allowing for a balance between office-based collaboration and remote work flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided benefits are substantial and align with industry best practices for attracting and retaining talent in specialized roles. The mention of "competitive salary and package" suggests negotiation is expected, and the estimated range is based on common market rates for similar roles in the UK. The hybrid nature of the role is a significant benefit in today's work environment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Logistics & Supply Chain Services. GXO Logistics is a global leader, providing end-to-end supply chain solutions, including warehousing, transportation, and technology services, to a wide range of industries. This context means the role is at the forefront of optimizing critical business operations for major clients.

Company Size: GXO is a large global organization, employing a significant number of people worldwide. This scale means opportunities for diverse projects, exposure to international best practices, and potential for career advancement.

Founded: GXO Logistics was established as a spin-off from XPO Logistics in 2020, but its roots and operational expertise are built on decades of experience in the logistics sector. This history provides a foundation of established processes and a forward-looking approach to innovation.

Team Structure:

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

• This role reports into a senior management position within the Solutions Design department, possibly a Head of Solutions Design or a Director of Engineering.

• Close collaboration is required with Business Development (sales), Operational Management (site leads, directors), IT, and potentially finance teams to ensure holistic solution development and buy-in. Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is paramount, utilizing analytical tools and methodologies to understand current operations and forecast future performance.

• Emphasis on creating innovative, cost-effective, and operationally robust solutions tailored to specific customer needs.

• Structured project management approach to handle multiple complex design initiatives simultaneously.

• Focus on collaboration and cross-functional input to ensure solutions are practical, implementable, and meet all stakeholder requirements.

• Continuous improvement mindset, leveraging customer feedback and operational performance data to refine design processes and solutions.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: GXO's positioning as a global leader in logistics implies a demanding yet rewarding environment where operational excellence and innovation are key drivers. The company's recent spin-off suggests a dynamic organization focused on growth and modernizing its offerings.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as a "Manager" level, indicating a significant level of responsibility and autonomy. It falls into the senior individual contributor or lead specialist track within the operations and engineering functions. The scope includes managing complex projects and influencing design decisions that have a substantial impact on client operations and GXO's profitability.

Reporting Structure: The Warehouse Solutions Design Manager will likely report to a senior leader within the Solutions Design or Engineering department, such as a Director or VP of Solutions Design. They will also work closely with the Business Development team, providing design support for new client acquisition, and with operational teams to ensure designs are implementable.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts GXO's ability to win new business and retain existing clients by designing efficient, cost-effective, and innovative warehouse solutions. Successful designs contribute to improved client satisfaction, increased operational throughput, reduced costs, and enhanced competitive advantage for both GXO and its customers.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization & Leadership: Progression to Senior Solutions Design Manager, leading larger or more complex projects, or potentially managing a team of designers. Specialization in advanced automation or specific industry verticals within logistics.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunities to move into roles within Operations Management, Business Development, or Program Management, leveraging their deep understanding of logistics design and client needs.

• Continuous Learning: Access to GXO University for upskilling in areas like advanced analytics, new technologies, project management, and leadership. Encouragement to gain professional certifications relevant to supply chain and engineering.

• Global Exposure: As part of a large global organization, there may be opportunities to engage with international projects or teams, broadening exposure to diverse logistics challenges and solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Manager" title suggests a clear career path beyond this role, either through deepening expertise or moving into leadership. The emphasis on "GXO University" and "internal promotions" reinforces the company's commitment to employee development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is designated as hybrid, meaning there will be a mix of working from home and from a GXO office location. The primary office location for this role is Northampton. The office environment is expected to be professional, with facilities conducive to collaborative work, meetings, and focused individual tasks.

Office Location(s):

• Primary office: Northampton, ENG, NN1 5GE, United Kingdom. This location serves as the base for on-site work and team collaboration.

• Hybrid flexibility allows for remote work, reducing the need for daily commuting to the office. Workspace Context:

• Collaboration: The office environment will facilitate interaction with colleagues from Solutions Design, Business Development, and Operations teams, fostering a collaborative approach to problem-solving and solution development.

• Tools & Technology: Access to necessary IT infrastructure, software licenses (AutoCAD, Microsoft Office Suite, potentially simulation tools), and meeting facilities to perform design tasks and present findings effectively.

• Operations Integration: Opportunities to visit GXO operational sites (warehouses, distribution centers) to gain firsthand understanding of real-world logistics challenges and how proposed designs translate into practice. This hands-on exposure is crucial for developing robust solutions.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week. The hybrid nature allows for flexibility in structuring the work week, balancing office days with remote days based on project needs and team coordination. This flexibility is beneficial for managing complex design tasks that require focused, uninterrupted work periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work arrangement is a key feature, offering flexibility while maintaining essential in-person collaboration. The Northampton base suggests proximity to a significant logistics hub, providing ample opportunities for site visits and real-world application of design principles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A telephone interview with HR or a hiring manager to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit. This stage will likely gauge understanding of the role's core responsibilities and motivations.

• Technical Assessment/Case Study: Candidates may be asked to complete a technical assessment or a detailed case study related to warehouse design. This could involve analyzing a brief scenario, proposing a solution, or demonstrating proficiency with design tools.

• In-depth Interview(s): Further interviews with senior members of the Solutions Design team and potentially stakeholders from Business Development or Operations. These interviews will focus on technical depth, problem-solving approach, project management experience, and ability to articulate complex ideas.

• Final Interview: Potentially a final interview with a senior leader to discuss career aspirations, confirm fit with the company culture, and finalize terms.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase 3-5 of your most impactful projects that best represent your skills in warehouse design, data analysis, and solution development. Prioritize projects with clear, quantifiable results.

• Structure for Clarity: For each project, follow a clear narrative: Problem Statement -> Analysis & Data Gathering -> Design Process & Tools Used (AutoCAD, etc.) -> Solution Details -> Implementation Considerations -> Quantifiable Results (KPIs, ROI).

• Highlight Key Skills: Explicitly call out your experience with AutoCAD, 3D visualization, Class simulation, MOST standards, process mapping, and data analysis.

• Demonstrate Impact: Focus on the "so what?" – how your designs directly benefited clients or GXO in terms of cost savings, efficiency gains, capacity improvements, or service level enhancements. Use specific numbers and percentages.

• Prepare to Discuss: Be ready to walk through your portfolio entries in detail, answering questions about your design choices, challenges faced, and lessons learned.

Challenge Preparation:

• Problem-Solving: Be prepared for hypothetical scenarios that require you to think through warehouse layout challenges, operational bottlenecks, or automation integration issues. Practice breaking down problems, identifying key variables, and proposing logical solutions.

• Tool Proficiency: If a practical test is involved, ensure you are comfortable with AutoCAD and any other specified software. Practice creating basic layouts or modifying existing ones.

• Communication: Practice explaining complex technical concepts and design rationale clearly and concisely, as if presenting to a mixed audience of technical and non-technical stakeholders.

• Commercial Awareness: Understand how warehouse design impacts business objectives, cost, and customer satisfaction. Be ready to discuss the commercial implications of your design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and potential case studies highlights a practical, results-oriented approach to hiring. Candidates need to be ready to demonstrate their design capabilities and the tangible impact of their work.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 2D AutoCAD: Essential for creating detailed warehouse layouts, floor plans, and schematics. Proficiency in drawing, layer management, block usage, and dimensioning is expected.

• 3D Visualization Software: Tools for creating realistic 3D models and walkthroughs of proposed warehouse designs to aid stakeholder comprehension and buy-in. Specific software may vary but could include tools integrated with AutoCAD or standalone visualization platforms.

• Microsoft Visio: For creating process flow diagrams, workflow mapping, and organizational charts, crucial for documenting current and future state operations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Microsoft Excel: Advanced proficiency is critical for data analysis, financial modeling, cost estimations, KPI tracking, and scenario planning. This includes complex formulas, pivot tables, and data visualization.

• Microsoft PowerPoint: For developing and delivering compelling presentations of design proposals, project updates, and findings to clients and internal stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• WMS (Warehouse Management System) Knowledge: While not necessarily a system to manage, a deep understanding of WMS functionalities, data flows, and integration points is vital for designing effective warehouse operations.

• Class Simulation: A key requirement for simulating warehouse operations, testing different layouts, processes, and automation strategies to predict performance and identify optimal solutions.

• MOST Work Standards: Used for measuring and analyzing work methods, providing a basis for understanding labor productivity and setting performance benchmarks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on design and analytical tools, with specific emphasis on CAD, simulation, and standard work measurement. This indicates a need for a technically proficient individual who can translate operational requirements into detailed, data-backed designs.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation: A drive to develop novel, efficient, and scalable solutions that push the boundaries of logistics design.

• Customer Focus: A commitment to understanding and exceeding customer needs by delivering tailored, high-impact solutions.

• Operational Excellence: A dedication to robust, reliable, and cost-effective designs that perform optimally in real-world warehouse environments.

• Collaboration: A belief in the power of teamwork, encouraging open communication and cross-functional partnerships to achieve shared goals.

• Data-Driven: A commitment to using data and analytical insights to inform design decisions, measure performance, and drive continuous improvement.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively engaging with Business Development, Operations, IT, and other departments to ensure solutions are holistic and aligned with overall business objectives.

• Partnership Approach: Working collaboratively with clients to understand their unique challenges and co-create solutions that deliver maximum value.

• Knowledge Sharing: Fostering an environment where best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise are shared openly among team members to elevate collective capabilities.

• Constructive Feedback: Encouraging a culture where feedback is given and received openly to refine designs and improve processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: GXO's values likely emphasize innovation, customer-centricity, and operational efficiency, which are core to a solutions design function. The collaborative style is essential for bridging the gap between sales, engineering, and operations.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Innovation with Practicality: Designing solutions that are both cutting-edge and feasible for implementation within client budgets and operational constraints.

• Managing Multiple Complex Projects: Juggling the demands of several concurrent design projects, each with unique requirements and deadlines, without compromising quality.

• Data Availability and Quality: Dealing with potentially incomplete or inconsistent data from clients, requiring robust analytical skills to derive meaningful insights.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Keeping abreast of rapid advancements in automation, AI, and logistics technology to ensure designs remain state-of-the-art.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Gaining buy-in and consensus from diverse stakeholders with potentially conflicting priorities.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Skills: Deepening expertise in advanced AutoCAD features, simulation software, and new design methodologies.

• Automation & Robotics: Gaining specialized knowledge in the latest warehouse automation and robotics technologies.

• Project Management Certification: Pursuing formal project management qualifications (e.g., PRINCE2, PMP) to enhance project leadership capabilities.

• Industry Trends: Staying current with global logistics trends, regulatory changes, and best practices through industry publications, conferences, and GXO University resources.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to mentor junior designers, lead cross-functional project teams, and potentially move into people management roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges and growth opportunities are typical for a senior role in a dynamic and evolving industry like logistics. The company's investment in "GXO University" and focus on internal promotions provides clear pathways for professional development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

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

• "How do you approach analyzing operational data to identify inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement in a warehouse environment?" (Demonstrate analytical methodology and data-driven approach.)

• "Walk me through your process for designing a warehouse layout using AutoCAD. What key factors do you consider to ensure operational robustness and cost-effectiveness?" (Showcase technical process and design principles.)

• "Imagine a client needs to increase throughput by 20% within six months. What steps would you take to design a solution, and what key data would you need?" (Assess problem-solving under pressure and data requirements.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you specifically about GXO Logistics and our role in the supply chain industry?" (Research GXO's market position, key clients, and recent news.)

• "How do you align your design approach with a company's overall business objectives and customer service goals?" (Connect design work to business impact.)

• "Describe your experience working in a hybrid environment. How do you ensure effective collaboration and productivity?" (Assess adaptability to modern work arrangements.)

• "How do you stay current with advancements in warehouse technology and logistics design?" (Showcase continuous learning and industry engagement.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame each portfolio project as a compelling story with a clear beginning (the challenge), middle (your solution and process), and end (the positive outcome).

• Visual Aids: Use screenshots from AutoCAD, 3D renderings, process maps, and charts/graphs to illustrate your points and make your presentation engaging.

• Quantify Everything: For each project, have specific metrics ready (e.g., "reduced pick times by 15%", "increased storage capacity by 25%", "achieved a projected ROI of X%").

• Focus on Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions and decision-making within team projects.

• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your design choices, alternative solutions considered, and how you handle unexpected issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation advice focuses on demonstrating practical application of skills, understanding of business impact, and ability to communicate effectively, all crucial for a solutions design role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the GXO jobs portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your resume and portfolio are tailored to highlight your experience with warehouse design, AutoCAD, Class simulation, MOST standards, data analysis, and project management. Select portfolio examples that best showcase your ability to create innovative, cost-effective, and operationally robust logistics solutions.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to include keywords and phrases directly from the job description, such as "warehouse solutions design," "AutoCAD," "data analysis," "supply chain design," "process mapping," "WMS flows," and "project management." Quantify achievements with specific metrics wherever possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience through the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result), focusing on relevant warehouse design projects. Prepare to discuss your portfolio in detail and be ready for technical questions related to logistics operations and design tools.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research GXO Logistics, understanding their services, target markets, and recent company news. Familiarize yourself with their operational scale and commitment to innovation. 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.

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