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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team as a Business Development Trainee and drive real business growth.
- Company: Smurfit Westrock is a leading UK packaging business focused on sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible working options, and 24/7 confidential support.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience, structured training, and develop your sales skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: A genuine interest in business development and a full clean UK driver’s licence are essential.
- Other info: No prior packaging experience needed; we value your potential and enthusiasm!
Grow Your Sales Career with Smurfit Westrock – Business Development Trainee
If you want to know about the requirements for this role, read on for all the relevant information.
Are you ready to launch your sales career or bring your skills into a dynamic, fast-paced industry where you can make a real impact? At Smurfit Westrock Tannochside, we have an exciting opportunity for a Business Development Trainee to join our team.
Whether you’re exploring a new career path or looking to develop your sales skills, this role offers hands-on experience, structured training and the chance to contribute to real business growth from day one.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and life stages — if you’re motivated, curious and eager to learn, we want to hear from you.
What You’ll Be Doing
As part of our friendly, driven team, you’ll:
Research and identify new business opportunities within target markets
Develop your knowledge of our diverse product portfolio
Build strong relationships with customers through professional communication
Learn and apply value-based selling techniques to meet customer needs
Join and lead client meetings, presentations, and sales calls
Maintain accurate customer and opportunity records in our CRM system
Prepare sales reports and updates for internal and external stakeholders
Support marketing and promotional activities for the site
Help onboard new customers and manage their accounts
Support the management of existing customer accounts
Take part in structured training on commercial awareness, negotiation, and product knowledge
As this is a sales-focused role, success will be measured by Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) such as activity levels, customer engagement and contribution to new business. You’ll receive full support and coaching to help you excel.
What We’re Looking For
Essential:
A genuine interest in business development and customer engagement
Confident communicator with great people skills
Self-motivated, proactive and well-organised
Comfortable with IT systems and open to learning CRM tools
Full clean UK driver’s licence
Desirable:
Experience in sales, customer service or a commercial environment (e.g. part-time roles, internships, placements)
A degree, equivalent qualification or relevant industry experience
Packaging experience is a bonus — but not essential. We’re more interested in your potential, mindset and enthusiasm. We’ll give you everything you need to learn the industry and succeed in the role.
What We Offer
A competitive salary and benefits package (including annual leave, pension and Cycle to Work scheme)
Career development opportunities in a leading UK packaging business
Full training and onboarding – no packaging experience required
A supportive, inclusive working environment
Flexible working options and family-friendly policies
24/7 confidential support for you and your family
A culture that values collaboration, integrity and continuous improvement
Guaranteed interview for candidates meeting essential criteria (Disability Confident Employer)
Apply Today
Applications are open now — take the next step in your career with Smurfit Westrock and help us build a sustainable future together.
Smurfit Westrock reserve the right to only shortlist candidates who meet both the Essential and Desirable Criteria.
We are an equal opportunities employer, and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their sex; religious or similar philosophical belief; political opinion; race; age; sexual orientation; or, whether they are married or are in a civil partnership; or, whether they are disabled; or whether they have undergone, are undergoing or intend to undergo gender reassignment.
We practice equality of opportunity in employment and select the best person for the job
Business Development Trainee employer: Smurfit Kappa
Contact Detail:
Smurfit Kappa Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Trainee
✨Tip Number 1
Research Smurfit Westrock and their product portfolio thoroughly. Understanding their offerings will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the company and its business development goals.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees on platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be a great advantage during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your understanding of value-based selling techniques. Familiarise yourself with these concepts, as they are crucial for the role and will show your readiness to contribute from day one.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to showcase your communication skills in any interactions with the recruitment team. Since this role requires strong people skills, demonstrating your ability to engage effectively will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Trainee
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the key responsibilities and requirements for the Business Development Trainee position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with what Smurfit Westrock is looking for.
Craft a Compelling CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your relevant experiences, skills, and achievements. Focus on any sales or customer service experience you have, even if it's from part-time roles or internships, as this will be valuable for the role.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your genuine interest in business development and customer engagement. Highlight your motivation, curiosity, and eagerness to learn, as these traits are essential for the role. Make sure to connect your background to the specific responsibilities mentioned in the job description.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread your CV and cover letter. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Smurfit Kappa
✨Show Your Enthusiasm for Sales
Make sure to express your genuine interest in business development and sales during the interview. Share examples of what excites you about the role and how you see yourself contributing to the team.
✨Prepare for Value-Based Selling
Familiarise yourself with value-based selling techniques before the interview. Be ready to discuss how you would identify customer needs and tailor your approach to meet those needs effectively.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
As a confident communicator, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare to discuss how you would build strong relationships with customers and handle client meetings or presentations.
✨Research the Company and Industry
Take the time to learn about Smurfit Westrock and the packaging industry. Understanding their products and market position will help you ask insightful questions and show that you're proactive and well-prepared.