. About DS Smith DS Smith are a leading provider of sustainable packaging solutions, paper products and recycling services in more than 30 different countries. 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. Be a game changer as we invent, re-imagine and redefine packaging Project Leader – Paper & Board Reporting directly to the Paper & Board Development Director, you will be responsible for defining, creating, and managing the delivery of projects. This role will play a crucial role in the creation and delivery of the P&B project agenda, coupled with robust reporting and management of the P&B innovation pipeline. Key Responsibilities: Lead selective technical and scientific research (materials/process/technology) on topics defined by the Paper & Board Development Director and Group R&D. Conduct materials watch and search for external material technologies related to paper & packaging. Systematically search through literature and patents about new paper-based material and process ideas. Actively participate in the R&D network and other divisional meetings as and when required. What you will be doing: Explore technical feasibility (including trials, tests, and prototypes). Develop technologies as technical brick into appropriate technical readiness level. Review implications on new paper & board developments with Divisional sales & marketing department (go-to-market strategies). Review implications on new paper & board developments with Divisional Operations across Packaging and Paper division. Review and assess implications of new paper & board developments on DSS' sustainability agenda and specifically internal recycling processes. Responsibility for full project management, business case development, technical solution development, capital requirement analysis, and reporting process. Monthly reporting of Paper & Board Development pipeline and status. Technically and scientifically support R&D networks upon request: Present selected product innovations/technical bricks to the business. Contribute to customers' presentations as a technology expert. Develop/capitalize/transfer expertise on existing, alternative, or emerging technologies. Work within the Group R&D team and support the central and regional PACE organization to develop new concepts to enable continued efficiency savings for the business. Support the R&D networks and lead projects as a part of the Group R&D agenda. About you Experienced Project Management professional Experience in Manufacturing process of corrugated board and products. Degree level in a scientific / technology field. Computer literate with knowledge of Microsoft tools such as Excel, PowerPoint, MS project. Team worker, structured and involved. Hands-on, pragmatic, results oriented. Strong leadership skills. Open-minded and creative. Developed curiosity, interpersonal, communication and animation skills. Benefits Competitive salary Company bonus Pension scheme Life assurance Income protection 25 days holiday plus bank holidays Annual Cycle to Work Scheme “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.”