General Manager Redditch bei Dssmith

General Manager

Redditch

At DS Smith, we are redefining packaging for a changing world – and our Redditch site plays a key role in making that happen. Located in the heart of Worcestershire, our Redditch facility specialises in producing innovative corrugated packaging solutions that help some of the UK’s biggest brands deliver their products safely and sustainably.

With a strong focus on safety, quality, efficiency, and sustainability, the Redditch team combines cutting-edge technology with years of expertise to create packaging that doesn’t just protect products, but also reduces environmental impact. As part of our global DS Smith network, the site is a fast-paced, collaborative, and supportive workplace where every colleague contributes to our success.

If you’re looking to join a forward-thinking company that values its people, champions sustainability, and invests in growth, Redditch is the place to make your mark.

Key Responsibilities

• Set and execute site strategy, setting the long-term vision and direction of the site
• Ensure efficient operations across production, quality, safety, and customer delivery
• Manage all aspects of site performance including health & safety, cost control, and sustainability
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives—lean, waste reduction, productivity, and quality
• Maintain achievement of key KPIs including OEE, lead times, waste metrics, and customer satisfaction
• Lead, develop, and motivate cross-functional teams, including production, engineering, and fulfilment
• Build capability and succession through effective leadership and talent development.
• Own P&L responsibility for the site
• Control budgets and drive cost efficiency while investing in transformational projects as needed
• Collaborate cross-functionally with UK leadership, sales, Sustainability, and Technology departments
• Act as site ambassador internally and externally, enhancing DS Smith’s reputation for sustainability and innovation

Person Specification

• Significant experience in senior operational leadership, ideally as Plant Manager or Operations Director
• Proven track record in running facilities with advanced technologies—preferably in print, display, packaging, or FMCG sectors
• Strong results orientation and ability to simultaneously drive safety, quality, efficiency, and innovation
• Excellent strategic thinker with experience translating vision into operational reality
• Financial acumen—experience managing budgets, P&L, and capital investments
• Leadership excellence—skilled in developing teams, creating positive culture, and delivering sustained performance improvements
• Customer-focused mindset—comfortable working with marketing and account functions to deliver exceptional outcomes
• Strong change management and continuous improvement experience (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma)
• Pragmatic with excellent communication, influencing, and stakeholder management skills

Application closing date: 30th September 2025

What we can offer you:

• Competitive salary
• Qualifying Sick Pay scheme
• ·Pension scheme & Life insurance
• Share Save scheme
• Income Protection
• 25 days holiday plus Bank Holidays
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Virtual GP, Occupational Health & free Flu vaccine
• Cycle to Work and shopping discounts

We are DS Smith, together with International Paper, we are a global leader in sustainable packaging solutions and other fibre-based products. We believe a better, more sustainable tomorrow is possible with the right people, who challenge and support one another to enact positive change. We employ more than 65,000 colleagues in North America and Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), who are experts in innovation, manufacturing, design, sales, sustainability, supply chain, and much more. Together with our customers, we make the world safer and more productive, one sustainable packaging solution at a time. Become part of a world-leading organisation and do your best work with us!

“To 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.”

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