Solution Design Director - Supply Chain

ZipRecruiter; Milton Keynes; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in distribution solutions based in Milton Keynes is seeking a Solution Design Lead to drive transformative strategies for major clients. This leadership role involves managing a high-performing team and ensuring execution excellence across multiple projects, while promoting innovative practices and methodologies.

Qualifications

• 7-12 years of experience in industrial engineering and supply chain consulting.
• Strong background in distribution operations and material handling systems.
• High level of business acumen and strategic thinking.

Responsibilities

• Lead, manage, and scale a high-performing solution design team.
• Oversee execution of complex distribution centre designs.
• Develop and implement scalable delivery frameworks.

Skills

Supply Chain Consulting

Project Leadership

Strategic Thinking

Stakeholder Management

Operational Design

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering, logistics, operations, or related discipline

Job description

Job Description

FORTNA partners with the world’s leading brands to transform omnichannel and parcel distribution operations. Known world-wide for enabling companies to keep pace with digital disruption and growth objectives, we design and deliver solutions, powered by intelligent software, to optimize fast, accurate and cost-effective order fulfillment and last mile delivery. Our people, innovative approach and proprietary algorithms and tools ensure optimal operations design and material and information flow. We deliver exceptional value every day to our customers with comprehensive services and products including network strategy, distribution center operational design and implementation, material handling automated equipment, robotics and a comprehensive suite of lifecycle services.

At FORTNA, we believe in fostering a workplace that isn't just a job but a movement – a collective effort to redefine success and transform challenges into opportunities. "Join the Movement" encapsulates our commitment to a workplace culture that thrives on collaboration, celebrates , and empowers every individual to contribute to something greater than themselves. Our Team. Our Passion. Our Approach.

READY TO DRIVE STRATEGIC IMPACT ACROSS HIGH-VISIBILITY CLIENT ENGAGEMENTS?

Job Summary:

This role presents an opportunity to lead a high-performing team of solution design professionals while playing a pivotal part in shaping and delivering transformative distribution strategies for leading global brands. You will be responsible for overseeing complex client programmes, ensuring alignment with business goals and execution excellence across multiple workstreams.

You will direct the strategic allocation of resources, mentor senior-level professionals, and reinforce a culture of accountability, performance, and innovation. Your leadership will extend to the development and refinement of methodologies that support scalable, best-in-class delivery.

You will work in close collaboration with FORTNA’s senior leadership and client stakeholders to align operational design strategies with broader business objectives—ensuring continuity from solution development through execution.

Job Responsibilities:

• Lead, manage, and scale a high-performing solution design team; provide strategic oversight on client project portfolios.
• Oversee the execution of complex distribution centre designs, acting as SME, Project Manager, or Solution Architect as required.
• Develop and implement scalable delivery frameworks and methodologies in coordination with leadership.
• Provide senior-level guidance on project execution, risk management, and business case validation.
• Direct internal workforce planning, resource management, and capability development within the team.
• Serve as an executive point of contact across multiple client engagements, fostering trust and alignment.
• Drive cross-functional collaboration across internal teams to ensure alignment and efficiency in project delivery.
• Promote continuous improvement and innovation in tools, templates, and processes.
• Facilitate executive-level steering committees and lead strategic planning sessions.

Qualifications Needed:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, logistics, operations, or a related discipline.
• 7–12 years of experience in industrial engineering and supply chain consulting, including project leadership roles.
• Strong background in distribution operations, material handling systems, and operational design.
• Proven track record of managing large-scale client engagements and cross-functional teams.
• Expertise in technical disciplines such as Network Modelling and DC Design.
• High level of business acumen and strategic thinking.
• Strong executive presence with excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Demonstrated capability in mentoring senior professionals and developing high-performing teams.
• Willingness to travel regionally and internationally to support client delivery.

Desired Qualifications:

• Advanced certifications such as CPIM, CSCP (APICS), PMP (PMI), or equivalent professional development.
• Additional training from industry-recognised institutions such as Georgia Tech or IIE is a plus.

Additional Details:

The role is based in our Milton Keynes office. We operate under a hybrid working model, with approximately 60% of the time spent in the office and the remainder working from home. This position involves travel to Client sites.

How to Apply:

Click the ‘Apply’ button or connect with Florencia Senia at [e-mail].