Operations Director, UK Packaging

DS Smith; London; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

DS Smith is seeking an Operations Director for its UK Packaging division in London. This pivotal role involves leading the Supply Chain strategy and enhancing operational performance across the UK. The successful candidate will have a strong commercial background and significant experience in multi-site operations, contributing to the company's dynamic growth and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years in multisite operations roles.
• Strong business acumen and senior-level commercial experience.

Responsibilities

• Drive and lead the implementation of the Supply Chain/Operations strategy.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety functions.
• Lead, coach, and develop the operations team.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical Skills

Communication

Stakeholder Management

Commercial Acumen

Education

Master’s degree or MBA

Job description

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Operations Director, UK Packaging, London

Client:

DS Smith

Location:

London, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

-

EU work permit required:

Yes

Job Reference:

50d90cc0cc72

Job Views:

5

Posted:

02.06.2025

Expiry Date:

17.07.2025

Job Description:

As part of the UK Cluster Management team, the Operations Director will develop, drive, and lead the implementation of the Supply Chain/Operations strategy for the UK, ensuring all operations targets and costs are met through effective use of people and equipment.

The Operations Director, UK will report directly to the Managing Director for the UK and have a dotted line to the Regional Operations Director, North Europe.

Key Achievements / Responsibilities

• Own and deliver the strategic plan, including transformational activities and target operating models, future-proofing the business.
• Lead the development and execution of Operations / Supply Chain plans for the UK cluster.
• Lead the UK Environment, Health and Safety functions, ensuring compliance with policies and safe operation of plants.
• Drive lean and efficient operations and supply chain organization development across the UK.
• Research and implement lean manufacturing techniques to achieve performance improvements.
• Develop and implement asset management strategies, including optimizing manufacturing footprint.
• Oversee project management to ensure optimal resource use, acting as chairman of the UK Capital Investment Committee.
• Anticipate future trends and innovations to reduce manufacturing costs and improve product delivery.
• Establish and maintain positive relationships with customers and suppliers.
• Participate in the UK leadership team, aligning strategies with regional and divisional goals.
• Drive investment plans for production technology, managing budgets for CAPEX, staffing, and production volume.
• Ensure effective communication with sales, marketing, and regional functions.
• Manage production to meet profitability targets, control costs, and ensure quality.
• Implement operations systems and procedures in line with company guidelines and develop contingency plans.
• Focus on productivity, waste reduction, and reliable manufacturing capacity.
• Manage health and safety, ensuring compliance and safety standards.
• Lead safety initiatives and represent the company on industry bodies.
• Utilize business synergies within the organization to optimize processes and reduce costs.
• Build a lean and efficient organizational structure, promoting a culture aligned with DS Smith values.
• Lead integration processes and embed company culture and values.
• Develop leadership capabilities and talent pipeline within the organization.
• Lead, coach, and develop the operations team to high performance.
• Build relationships with key internal and external stakeholders, including customers and authorities.
• Model and promote DS Smith values and leadership competencies, fostering continuous improvement.

Person Specification

Education & Qualifications

• Master’s degree, MBA or equivalent.
• Strong business acumen and senior-level commercial experience, minimum 10 years in multisite operations roles.

Requirements & Experience

• Experience in driving change and growth, organizational transformation.
• Multi-site and multi-functional experience.
• Proven stakeholder management skills, including with customers and authorities.
• Analytical, strategic, and commercial skills.
• Excellent communication skills, able to explain business performance clearly.
• Ability to make decisions under pressure, challenge norms, and influence collaboratively.
• Strong leadership, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills.
• High standards, resilience, energy, and a proactive attitude.
• Strategic, results-oriented, responsible, and example-setting leadership.
• Experience leading business change in dynamic environments.
• High integrity, ambition, and knowledge to lead the sector effectively.