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- Tasks: Lead and support a team in transforming corrugated board into customer-ready packaging.
- Company: Join DS Smith, a global leader in sustainable packaging solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, 25 days holiday, and employee assistance programme.
- Why this job: Step into a leadership role with real career progression in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in manufacturing leadership and a strong focus on safety and quality.
- Other info: Dynamic team culture with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 49600 - 49600 £ per year.
Location: DS Smith, Blunham
Function: Operations / Production
Shift: Pitman Shift (12 hour shifts covering 24/7 2-2-3 rotation)
Salary: £49,592
About the Role
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Conversion Team Leader to join our team here at Blunham, at a time of growth and expansion within our Conversion area. Conversion is a critical part of our manufacturing process, where corrugated board is transformed into finished, customer-ready packaging. This includes activities such as cutting, printing, folding, gluing, and finishing products to exact customer specifications. As a Conversion Team Leader, you will play a key role in ensuring this process runs safely, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards.
This role is ideal for an experienced production team member or current Team Leader who is looking to take the next step in their leadership journey. You will have hands-on involvement in production while also being responsible for leading, coaching, and developing a growing team of operators and assistants.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, motivate, and support a team within the Conversion production area
- Be hands-on with day-to-day machine operations, setting the standard for safe and effective working
- Allocate labour and resources to meet production plans, output targets, and customer requirements
- Coach, train, and develop operators and assistants to build capability, flexibility, and engagement
- Ensure strict adherence to Health & Safety, Quality, Housekeeping, and Environmental standards
- Monitor performance, identify issues, and support corrective actions to maintain flow and efficiency
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives, including waste reduction, efficiency improvements, and best practice
- Communicate effectively with Shift Managers, Engineering, and Support Functions to resolve operational challenges
- Support new starters and skill development as the Conversion team continues to expand
What We're Looking For
- Proven Team Leader or supervisory experience in a manufacturing or production environment
- Strong understanding of Health & Safety and quality standards
- Ability to lead by example with a hands-on, practical approach
- Positive, proactive, and solutions-focused mindset
- Strong teamwork and collaboration skills
- Desire to develop others and build a high-performing team
- Willingness to learn and grow within a leadership role
Why Apply?
- Opportunity to step into or further develop a leadership role within a global, market-leading organisation
- Be part of an expanding Conversion operation with real career progression opportunities
- Gain valuable experience in people leadership, production management, and continuous improvement
- Work in a supportive environment where safety, development, and improvement are key priorities
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
Conversion Team Leader in Bedford employer: DS Smith Packaging Limited
Contact Detail:
DS Smith Packaging Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Conversion Team Leader in Bedford
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, do a bit of research on DS Smith. Check out their values and recent news. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. Focus on how your experience aligns with the role of Conversion Team Leader, especially your hands-on approach and leadership skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your teamwork skills! Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led a team or resolved conflicts in the past. Highlight your ability to motivate and develop others, as this is key for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a nice touch and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Conversion Team Leader in Bedford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the Conversion Team Leader role. Highlight your leadership experience in manufacturing and any specific achievements that showcase your ability to lead a team effectively.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share your passion for production and how your hands-on approach can drive the team towards success. Don’t forget to mention your commitment to health and safety standards!
Showcase Your Teamwork Skills: In your application, emphasise your ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with others. We want to see examples of how you've motivated and developed teams in the past, so don’t hold back on those stories!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it reaches the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at DS Smith Packaging Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the conversion process inside out. Familiarise yourself with cutting, printing, folding, and gluing techniques. Being able to discuss these processes confidently will show that you're not just a leader but also someone who knows the ropes.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led teams in the past. Think about specific situations where you motivated your team or resolved conflicts. This will help demonstrate your ability to lead by example and develop others, which is crucial for this role.
✨Safety First!
Brush up on Health & Safety standards relevant to manufacturing. Be ready to discuss how you've implemented safety measures in previous roles. This shows that you prioritise safety and quality, aligning with the company's values.
✨Continuous Improvement Mindset
Think of instances where you've driven efficiency improvements or waste reduction in your previous jobs. Be prepared to share these experiences, as they highlight your proactive approach and commitment to continuous improvement, which is key for the Conversion Team Leader role.
