Solution Design Manager jobs
Logistics is growing in complexity almost as fast as software can keep up with it, but the revolution in the sector that IT has allowed cannot be denied. That leaves a set of hugely important roles in the field, namely the designers of solutions to keep everything running smoothly and analyse results.
While many off-the-shelf solutions are available, companies with the budget and the need will often design their own logistics solutions. This could be because of specific requirements of their company or simply so that they have ownership of the solution, cutting down on licensing fees. Companies seeking to build and maintain solutions either through which to run the whole operation or to deal with, say, invoicing or analysis will hire solutions design managers to head its development and use.
A good, flexible system that will grow with the company and allow the integration of other departments’ activities will, if it works well, save the company significant amounts of money on administration, lost orders and customer relations, to name but a few advantages. And any implementation will need a good solution design manager to keep it running at full throttle.
The skills required
First-class IT skills will be required for this role, even if the manager is not personally programming or setting up networks. They will have to have an intimate knowledge of the system, its capabilities and its limitations if it is to be successful. Previous experience of setting up or managing software solutions will be essential.
Superb analytical skills will be necessary, as will great people-management, motivational skills and communications; software solutions can require late nights and long hours when they need fixing, so it’s important to have a team that gels.
Successful solution design managers will need an exceptional aptitude for self-motivation. He or she could be one of only a handful or people who understands the inner workings of the solution, so good problem-solving skills will also be required.
Solution Design Manager Jobs in Northampton
Situated in the East Midlands on the banks of the River Nene, Northampton is a market town with a history dating back to the 6th century. By the end of the 11th century, the community had grown significantly and the Domesday Book records it as having a population of around 1,500 inhabitants.
During the 19th century, the city experienced further expansion thanks to the construction of the Grand Union Canal, which connected London and Birmingham with each other, as well as cities like Leicester, Slough and Northampton. Railways also arrived at the city around this time, further simplifying trade with the rest of the country.
Northampton was best known for producing shoes and other leather goods during the 1800s and a few companies that were established during this period still provide specialist, high-end items today - including Edward Green Shoes, Trickers, Church's and Crockett & Jones.
Over the years, most of the other footwear factories have been converted to offices or residential buildings and, although the shoe industry has declined, a number of other sectors have taken its place, including distribution, finance and manufacturing. So those seeking Solution Design Manager roles in the area will have an array of employers to consider.
Just some of the well-known companies that have offices, factories or headquarters in Northampton include Coca Cola, Schweppes, Carlsberg, Texas Instruments, Avon Products, Blacks Leisure Group and Panasonic.
Meanwhile, Nationwide Building Society, Barclay Card, the University of Northampton and St Andrew's Healthcare are all major employers.
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Cast UK’s logistics opportunities
Cast UK’s founder members are from the logistics, procurement and supply chain sectors, and our consultants are from the same fields, so we know what both employers and candidates are looking for. Our own success depends on our filling management and executive positions with the best people, so we have an interest in making sure we know our candidates and employers as well as possible.
People approach us looking for work for many reasons, chief among them seeking more fulfilment, moving house or looking for a promotion. Cast UK is the consultancy that not only candidates but also many employers come to first, so if you’re looking for a career change in logistics, there’s a good chance we’ll have a great job for you.
The positions we offer cover the whole of the UK, so please check out what’s available in your region and do get in touch if you’ve seen something you’re interested in – your career might be about to take a positive turn!
To find out more about how Cast UK can help you recruit a Solution Design Manager for your business or find you a job as a Solution Design Manager then contact one of our consultant team on 0333 121 3345.
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