At a Glance
- Tasks: Support commercial growth by building customer relationships and delivering sustainable packaging solutions.
- Company: Join DS Smith, a global leader in sustainable packaging.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £23,975, pension, life insurance, and career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace focused on sustainability and innovation.
- Why this job: Kickstart your sales career with hands-on experience and mentorship in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in Maths and English or Level 2 Functional Skills required.
The predicted salary is between 23975 - 23975 £ per year.
Kickstart your career with a global leader in sustainable packaging. DS Smith is a leading provider of fibre-based sustainable packaging solutions, supported by integrated recycling and papermaking operations. Our innovative approach enables major brands to reduce carbon, replace problematic plastics, and keep materials in use for longer, all supported by our industry-leading design capabilities and unique "box-to-box in 14 days" model.
We are now looking for a motivated and ambitious individual to join our Mercia Packaging site as a Sales Apprentice.
The Job
As a Sales Executive Level 4 Apprentice, you will play a key role in supporting our commercial growth while developing the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in sales. You'll build strong relationships with customers, understand their packaging needs, and help deliver high-quality, sustainable solutions.
Key responsibilities include:
- Contacting customers to understand their packaging requirements
- Managing enquiries and responding to customer queries
- Liaising with internal teams to ensure orders and enquiries are processed efficiently
- Developing an understanding of DS Smith's products, services, and the UK corrugated packaging market
Your Development Journey & Apprenticeship
Our 18-month Level 4 Sales Apprenticeship gives you the skills to succeed in consultative selling and account management, helping you build strong customer relationships from day one. You'll learn through a mix of structured training, hands-on experience, and a full business induction - with site visits to see how our packaging solutions come to life. Plus, a dedicated mentor will support you every step of the way.
During the programme, you'll gain experience across key areas, including:
- Design
- Customer Services
- Supply Chain
- Direct Sales Teams
This well-rounded experience will give you a strong foundation and a clear path to grow your career at DS Smith.
Career Opportunities
On successful completion of the apprenticeship, you'll be well-positioned to progress into a variety of roles within DS Smith, including:
- Sales
- Design
- Customer Service
- Commercial or Account Management
While based at our Mercia site, you'll be part of the wider DS Smith team, working collaboratively across the business and contributing to our shared goal of excellence in sales and customer service.
What You'll Need
- GCSEs in Maths and English (Grade C/4-9) or Level 2 Functional Skills
- To have lived in the UK or EEA for the past 3 consecutive years (funding requirement)
- Ability to start full-time on 3rd September 2026
- Full right to work in the UK
- Starting salary: £23,975, with increases as you progress
- Company pension
- Life insurance
- Income protection
- Cycle to work scheme
- A chance to launch a rewarding customer focused career with a global business
If you're enthusiastic, customer-focused, and excited to learn, we'd love to welcome you to the team.
Location: Mercia, Swadlincote
We are DS Smith, together with International Paper, we are a global leader in sustainable packaging solutions and other fibre-based products. We believe a better, more sustainable tomorrow is possible with the right people, who challenge and support one another to enact positive change.
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.
We welcome all candidates to apply, even those not meeting all criteria.
Sales Apprentice: 18‑Month Path to Account Growth employer: DS Smith
At DS Smith, we pride ourselves on being a global leader in sustainable packaging, offering an inclusive and supportive work environment that fosters personal and professional growth. As a Sales Apprentice at our Mercia site in Swadlincote, you'll benefit from a comprehensive 18-month training programme, mentorship, and opportunities to progress into various roles within the company, all while contributing to meaningful sustainability initiatives. Join us to kickstart your career with competitive salary packages, a strong focus on employee development, and a culture that values diversity and collaboration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sales Apprentice: 18‑Month Path to Account Growth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching DS Smith and understanding their values and products. Show genuine interest in sustainable packaging solutions and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Sales Apprentice role. Highlight your enthusiasm for customer service and your eagerness to learn about the packaging industry.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the DS Smith team and kickstarting your career with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Sales Apprentice: 18‑Month Path to Account Growth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Enthusiasm:When writing your application, let your passion for sales and sustainability shine through. We want to see that you're excited about the opportunity to kickstart your career with us at DS Smith!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Sales Apprentice role. Mention any relevant coursework or projects that demonstrate your understanding of customer service and sales.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! This ensures that we receive all your details correctly and helps us keep track of your application in our system.
How to prepare for a job interview at DS Smith
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand DS Smith's products and services. Familiarise yourself with their sustainable packaging solutions and the UK corrugated packaging market. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Practice Your People Skills
As a Sales Apprentice, building relationships is key. Prepare for the interview by practising how you would approach customer interactions. Think of examples where you've successfully communicated or resolved issues, as this will demonstrate your ability to connect with customers.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the apprenticeship programme, team dynamics, or the company's sustainability initiatives. This shows you're engaged and eager to learn more about how you can contribute to DS Smith's goals.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
Let your passion for sales and sustainability shine through during the interview. Share why you're excited about the opportunity and how you see yourself growing within the company. A positive attitude can make a lasting impression on your interviewers!
