About the roleBe a game changer as we invent, re-imagine and redefine packagingWe are seeking a Design for Innovation Specialist, who’ll be responsible for the daily management and delivery of programmes and projects across the UK North Cluster. The Design for Innovation Specialists will ensure we deliver added value through innovation, continuous improvement projects, market insight and research. It’s a very exciting time to join, as we have committed to investing in our future across our strategic growth enablers within Innovation (R&D), Sustainability and Digital & Data.The work will deliver a unique, best-in-class proposition, which will excite customers to want to work with us. They will be able to meet with customers, discuss ideas and offer relevant solutionsReporting to the Cluster D&I Manager, you will drive the Innovation Agenda using our unique solution driven approach to deliver our Value Proposition to Customers whilst achieving profitable growth for DS Smith.Projects will encompass but not be limited to the following key strategic areas:Operational excellence and continuous improvementDS Smith Sustainability commitmentsSupport our Sales Team during opportunities that arise, scoping out technical requirements and presenting the best solution that maximises the chances of successful conversionSupport the team in onboarding new business to ensure we ‘get it right first time ‘Support and when applicable lead Impact and PackRight Centre visitsDeliver margin enhancement projects and contractual VE agreements.Provide technical support to customer’s, both remotely and at their premisesWalk Customer lines identifying, proposing and managing ongoing technical improvements.Deliver the innovation agenda to develop commercially viable solutions aligned to the insight, category management and specific customer challengesSupport the IC content development, Strategic Innovation Sessions and bespoke Packright customer sessionsThe role will require monitoring and co-ordination of the key projects that are aligned to Design and Innovation strategic goals. You will regularly review to ensure they are on track to deliver the committed results and ensure successful completion of projects.About youExcellent project management track recordImplementation of continuous improvement and value engineering programmes.Experience in the Packaging industry, ideally in a technical/design roleGood technical understanding of our materials and box performance factorsStrong communication, presentation and organisational skillsEnthusiastic, influential and strives for excellenceAn ability to develop and execute alternative solutionsExcellent analytical and problem solvingExcellent project and time management skillsGood communication skills – written and verbalManage and prioritise your activity to maximise value creation, business retention and profitable growth.Commit to your personal development programs for continuous improvementBenefitsCompetitive salaryDiscretionary bonus25 days’ holiday plus bank holidaysPension scheme, life assurance and income protectionEmployee Assistance ProgrammeEmployee DiscountsCycle to work schemeLocationRemote role ideally within easy reach of the M62 corridor (Leeds/Wakefield /York/Hull or similar) with regular travel to DS Smith and customer sitesAbout usWe’re DS Smith, the company who are redefining packaging for a changing world. We believe a better, more sustainable tomorrow is possible with the right people, who challenge and support one another to enact positive change. Today, we operate in more than 30 different countries, supporting customers across sectors like FMCG, industrial, and e-commerce. We deliver on quality, service, innovation, and added value to deliver market-leading sustainable packaging solutions our customers need. Our industry needs to transform, and we’re building the team to drive change across Europe and North AmericaTo fulfil our purpose of redefining packaging for a changing world, we aim to build a diverse, motivated, and engaged workforce. Our goal is to create a culture of inclusion where everyone is treated fairly, differences are valued, and everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed.Our people come from diverse backgrounds, bring different perspectives, ideas and experiences to generate unique solutions focused on present and future sustainability challenges. We welcome all candidates to apply, even those not meeting all criteria.#LI-CE
