At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and deliver secure, scalable infrastructure solutions across a global network.
- Company: Join a leading enterprise shaping technology solutions at DS Smith.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborate with diverse teams and drive innovation in a multi-site setting.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global technology transformation in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in infrastructure architecture and strong stakeholder engagement skills.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 88000 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Solution Architect – Infrastructure & Networks to join our IS&S function and play a critical role in shaping and delivering robust, secure, and scalable enterprise technology solutions across DS Smith. This role holds technical accountability for infrastructure and network architecture across a complex, multi-site international environment. You will lead the design and governance of core infrastructure services spanning networking, cloud connectivity, datacentre, and endpoint environments—ensuring solutions are resilient, secure, and aligned with enterprise strategy.
Working closely with Infrastructure Operations, Cybersecurity, Enterprise Architecture, and project delivery teams, you will enable business transformation whilst ensuring technology standards, governance, and operational excellence are consistently upheld.
Key responsibilities include:
- Designing end-to-end infrastructure and network solutions aligned to enterprise standards and business needs
- Producing high-quality architecture artefacts (HLDs, LLDs, roadmaps, and technical designs)
- Defining architecture patterns across LAN/WAN, SD-WAN, cloud connectivity, datacentre, and identity integration
- Embedding security-by-design principles and ensuring compliance with standards such as ISO27001 and NIS2
- Providing governance and technical assurance through architecture forums and design reviews
- Supporting project delivery through technical leadership, planning, and risk management
- Driving improvements in service resilience, scalability, and operational efficiency
- Partnering with vendors and internal stakeholders to evaluate solutions and guide strategic decisions
- Supporting hybrid infrastructure strategies across on-prem, cloud, and manufacturing environments
About you
You’re an experienced infrastructure and network architect with a strong track record of delivering enterprise-scale solutions in complex, global environments. We are looking for:
- Significant experience in infrastructure and network architecture (enterprise networking, cloud, datacentre, and virtualisation)
- Strong understanding of security principles and working in regulated or security-conscious environments
- Experience supporting large-scale transformation or modernisation initiatives
- Proven ability to work cross-functionally across IT, Security, and business teams
- Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence both technical and non-technical audiences
- Experience operating within multi-site or international organisations
- Familiarity with hybrid infrastructure models and modern networking approaches (e.g. SD-WAN, zero trust desirable)
Solution Architect - Infrastructure & Networks employer: DS Smith Europe
As a Quality and Technical Lead in our Packaging Division, you will thrive in a dynamic work environment that prioritises continuous improvement and customer satisfaction. Our company fosters a culture of collaboration and inclusivity, offering ample opportunities for professional growth and development while working closely with international teams. Located in a vibrant region, we provide a supportive atmosphere where your contributions directly impact our commitment to quality excellence and sustainability.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Solution Architect - Infrastructure & Networks
✨Join Local Tech Meetups
Get out there and mingle with fellow developers by joining local tech meetups. It’s a fantastic way to meet people who might be working at DS Smith Europe or know someone who does. Plus, you can pick up some trendy tech skills and trends while you're at it!
✨Contribute to Open Source Projects
Show off your coding chops by jumping into open-source projects. Not only does this give you practical experience, but it also gets you noticed in the dev community. You'll create a killer portfolio that speaks volumes about your skills to DS Smith Europe.
✨Tap into Online Developer Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online developer communities like GitHub, Stack Overflow, and even Reddit. Participate in discussions, share your projects, and build your visibility. We can often find opportunities through these channels that can lead to a full-time gig at companies like DS Smith Europe.
✨Explore Job Boards Specifically for Tech Roles
Keep your eyes peeled on job boards that focus on tech roles. Sites like TechCareers or Stack Overflow Jobs can often have listings for companies like DS Smith Europe that might not show up on broader job sites. Make it a habit to check these regularly, and don’t hesitate to apply directly through our website!
We think you need these skills to ace Solution Architect - Infrastructure & Networks
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off your coding skills:When applying for a software engineering role, it's super important to showcase your coding skills. Make sure your CV includes your tech stack, any relevant programming languages you’re comfortable with, and examples of projects you've worked on. If you have a GitHub profile, link it up! We love to see code in action.
Tailor your portfolio:For a full-time role, we’d expect to see some solid examples of your work in your portfolio. Make sure to include at least two or three projects that highlight your problem-solving skills and your ability to work with different technologies. Focus on the projects that are most relevant to the position at DS Smith Europe.
Craft a killer cover letter:Your cover letter is your chance to stand out—make it personal! Explain why you want to work at DS Smith Europe and how your skills align with the role. Show us your passion for software development. We dig enthusiastic candidates who understand the value of collaboration and continuous learning!
Be clear and concise:When it comes to writing your CV and cover letter, clarity is key. Avoid jargon that could confuse us and stick to simple, direct language. Highlight your achievements with quantifiable results where possible, and keep everything easy to read. A well-organised application goes a long way!
How to prepare for a job interview at DS Smith Europe
✨Brush Up on Your Coding Skills
For a full-time software engineering role, it's crucial that we stay sharp with our coding abilities. Expect technical questions that might involve solving problems on the spot or discussing algorithms. Practise on platforms like LeetCode or HackerRank to get comfortable with the types of questions that often come up.
✨Know Your Tools and Frameworks
Make sure we’re well-acquainted with the tools and technologies listed in the job description. Familiarise ourselves with any specific frameworks or programming languages mentioned. If DS Smith Europe uses React or Node.js, for instance, be ready to discuss how we’ve used them in previous projects or coursework.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Bring along a portfolio that highlights our best work. This could be code samples, GitHub repositories, or any side projects we’ve built. Make sure we can talk through our thought process for each project, especially the challenges we faced and how we solved them—this shows our problem-solving skills in action.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
While technical skills are key, full-time positions also require cultural fit. Be ready to discuss our previous experiences and how we handle teamwork, conflict, and deadlines. Brush up on the STAR method—Situation, Task, Action, Result—to clearly articulate our past experiences when discussing how we've contributed to a team.
