Structural Team Leader

About the role

DS Smith has an exciting opportunity for a Structural Team Leader to join the team at our Ely site. The successful candidate will oversee the daily operations of a team of Structural Designers, playing a crucial role in the department's success. Working closely with the Head of Structural, the Structural Design Team Leader will lead, develop, and motivate their team, ensuring high performance and professional growth.

In this role you will obtain detailed project briefs, design and produce 2D prototypes that meet job specifications, and create 3D point-of-sale structures ready for assembly and testing. As the Structural Design Team Leader, you will also serve as a mentor, fostering development and advancement within the team.

Responsibilities

• Act as a mentor to lead and develop direct reports, enabling them to operate to their full potential.
• Act as a first point of contact for any job-related queries, working to find a solution and implement any improvements; escalating to the Head of Structural if necessary.
• Work closely with peers (Structural Design Team Leaders) to share best practice and enable development of self.
• Carry out the annual PDR process, taking accountability for the development within your team; identifying learning opportunities and working with the Head of Structural to organise training where skills gaps are recognised.
• Manage the day-to-day movements of direct reports, escalating to the Head of Structural and HR where necessary.
• Upskill people management skills by participating in activities including but not limited to attending interviews, chairing meetings and actively working with HR to gain exposure.

About you

• Degree in Packaging or Product Design (or equivalent)
• Strong experience in Structural Design (ideally 10 years +)
• Proven experience in leading and managing a team
• Essential experience in the POS industry with demonstrated design and structural expertise
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, Adobe Suite, and CAD software (preferably Artios or similar packages)
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with key stakeholders and other teams within the business
• Experience in Product Design, ideally in POS (Point of Sale)

Benefits

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