Design for Innovation Specialist

DS Smith; Leeds; Remote; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A global leader in sustainable packaging solutions is seeking a Design for Innovation Specialist to lead strategic projects, enhance margins, and support sustainability initiatives. The ideal candidate has experience in project management within the packaging industry and strong analytical and communication skills. This role is remote, requiring occasional travel, particularly around the M62 corridor, and offers a competitive salary along with various employee benefits.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Discretionary bonus

25 days' holiday plus bank holidays

Pension scheme, life assurance, and income protection

Employee Assistance Programme

Employee Discounts

Cycle to work scheme

Qualifications

• Proven project management experience.
• Background in packaging industry, ideally in a technical or design role.
• Good understanding of materials and box performance.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage strategic project areas including operational excellence and continuous improvement.
• Support DS Smith Sustainability commitments.
• Deliver margin enhancement projects and contractual VE agreements.

Skills

Project management

Continuous improvement

Communication skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Time management

Job description

Overview

Be a game changer as we invent, re-imagine, and redefine packaging. We are seeking a Design for Innovation Specialist, responsible for managing and delivering programmes and projects across the UK North Cluster. The role involves ensuring value through innovation, continuous improvement projects, market insight, and research. This is an exciting opportunity as we focus on strategic growth in Innovation (R&D), Sustainability, and Digital & Data sectors. The successful candidate will help deliver a unique, best-in-class proposition to excite customers, discuss ideas, and offer relevant solutions. Reporting to the Cluster D&I Manager, you will drive the Innovation Agenda using our solution-driven approach to deliver our Value Proposition to Customers and achieve profitable growth for DS Smith.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and manage strategic project areas including operational excellence and continuous improvement
• Support DS Smith Sustainability commitments
• Support Sales during opportunities, scoping technical requirements, and presenting solutions
• Onboard new business to ensure accuracy from the start
• Lead Impact and PackRight Centre visits
• Deliver margin enhancement projects and contractual VE agreements
• Provide technical support remotely and on-site
• Identify and manage technical improvements on customer lines
• Develop commercially viable solutions aligned with customer challenges
• Support content development, Strategic Innovation Sessions, and bespoke PackRight customer sessions
• Monitor and coordinate key projects aligned with strategic goals, ensuring they stay on track to deliver results
• Remote role ideally within easy reach of the M62 corridor (Leeds / Wakefield / York / Hull or similar) with regular travel to DS Smith and customer sites

Qualifications

• Proven project management experience
• Experience in continuous improvement and value engineering
• Background in packaging industry, ideally in a technical or design role
• Good understanding of materials and box performance
• Strong communication, presentation, and organizational skills
• Enthusiastic, influential, and committed to excellence
• Ability to develop and implement alternative solutions
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Effective project and time management
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to prioritize activities for maximum value and growth
• Commitment to personal development and continuous improvement

Company claims and context

We're DS Smith, redefining packaging for a changing world. Operating in over 30 countries, we support customers across FMCG, industrial, and e-commerce sectors with sustainable packaging solutions. We are committed to diversity, inclusion, and creating a culture where everyone can succeed. Our people come from diverse backgrounds, bringing unique perspectives to address sustainability challenges. We welcome all candidates, even those not meeting all criteria.

About DS Smith

DS Smith is a global leader in sustainable packaging solutions alongside International Paper. With over 60,000 employees across North America, Europe, Middle East, and Africa, we innovate and manufacture to make the world safer and more productive through sustainable solutions. Join us and contribute to our mission!

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Discretionary bonus
• 25 days' holiday plus bank holidays
• Pension scheme, life assurance, and income protection
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Employee Discounts
• Cycle to work scheme