Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Gain hands-on experience in business management across various operations.
- Company: Join DS Smith, a global leader in sustainable packaging solutions.
- Benefits: Earn £26,000 starting salary, fully funded degree, and great career growth.
- Other info: Enjoy a structured training plan and ongoing support from mentors.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career while making a positive impact on the environment.
- Qualifications: Minimum three A Levels at CCC or equivalent BTECs required.
The predicted salary is between 26000 - 26000 £ per year.
Kickstart your career with a global leader in sustainable packaging. DS Smith is a world-leading provider of fibre-based, sustainable packaging solutions, supported by our integrated recycling and papermaking operations. Through our purpose of Redefining Packaging for a Changing World, we are driving the transition to a more circular, low-carbon economy.
About the Role
We are excited to offer a Business Management Degree Apprenticeship pathway that allows you to apply structured management practices to develop your business knowledge and principles. Over the course of this programme, you'll gain hands-on experience working in projects across many of our different operations, helping to improve performance, efficiency, sustainability and delivering great customer outcomes with a safety-first mindset.
Throughout the apprenticeship, you will rotate across key business areas including Operations, Supply Chain, Sales and Customer Services, together with key support functions. You will be on a 48-month structured programme with Aston University, working towards BSc Project Management and a Level 5 Certificate in Management and Leadership. By the end of the apprenticeship, you'll have developed the skills, insight and confidence to make a real impact and progress towards becoming a future leader at DS Smith.
Development
- A structured training plan that aligns workplace experience with your degree learning
- A comprehensive induction, including visits to our paper, packaging and innovation sites
- Ongoing support from a dedicated mentor and line manager
- Regular development reviews to track progress and support future career planning
What are the entry requirements?
- Applicants should have a minimum of three A Levels at CCC or above, or equivalent BTECs.
- You must have achieved a minimum of five GCSEs at Grade C/4 or above including Mathematics and English.
- To undertake the Project Management Level 6 Apprenticeship, you must have lived in the UK or European Economic Area (EEA) for the last 3 consecutive years as it is a government funded apprenticeship programme.
What's in it for you?
- Starting salary of £26,000, with structured increases as you progress through the programme.
- Fully funded degree - no tuition fees or student debt.
- The opportunity to build a long-term career with a global, sustainability-led organisation.
Benefits
- Company pension
- Life insurance
- Income protection
- Cycle to work scheme
About you
- Be able to start in the business full time on 7th September 2026.
- Hold the relevant right to work within the UK.
- Be fully flexible and geographically mobile as there will be placements across the country.
Business Management Degree Apprenticeship employer: DS SMITH PACKAGING LIMITED
Contact Detail:
DS SMITH PACKAGING LIMITED Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Management Degree Apprenticeship
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at DS Smith on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching DS Smith's sustainability initiatives. Show us that you're not just interested in the role, but also passionate about their mission of redefining packaging for a changing world.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. Confidence is key, so make sure you can articulate why you're the perfect fit for the Business Management Degree Apprenticeship.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Management Degree Apprenticeship
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Business Management Degree Apprenticeship. Highlight any relevant coursework, projects, or work experience that showcases your understanding of business principles and management practices.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for sustainable packaging and how you can contribute to DS Smith's mission. Be sure to mention why you're excited about the apprenticeship and what you hope to learn.
Showcase Your Soft Skills: In addition to academic qualifications, we want to see your soft skills in action. Highlight your teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities, as these are crucial for success in various business areas during the apprenticeship.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our website! This ensures that your application goes directly to us and allows you to keep track of your progress. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at DS SMITH PACKAGING LIMITED
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand DS Smith's mission and values, especially their focus on sustainability and circular economy. Familiarise yourself with their packaging solutions and how they contribute to reducing carbon footprints. This knowledge will show your genuine interest in the company and its goals.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to discuss specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your management skills, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. Think about situations where you've improved efficiency or contributed to a project’s success. Relating these experiences to the apprenticeship role will help you stand out.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with questions that show your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Ask about the types of projects you might work on during the apprenticeship or how the mentorship programme is structured. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the role is right for you.
✨Dress the Part
While the role is an apprenticeship, first impressions matter. Dress smartly and professionally to convey that you take the opportunity seriously. A polished appearance can boost your confidence and set a positive tone for the interview.