Business Development Manager - Packaging
Business Development Manager - Packaging

Business Development Manager - Packaging

Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Drive new business in packaging, managing the full sales cycle from prospecting to closing deals.
  • Company: Join Smurfit Westrock, a global leader in sustainable packaging solutions with a focus on innovation.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth and collaboration across teams.
  • Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven company that values integrity and excellence while making a social impact.
  • Qualifications: A self-starter with strong communication skills and a strategic mindset; no prior experience required.
  • Other info: This is an entry-level position with full-time hours, perfect for ambitious individuals ready to make their mark.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

Smurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is a global leader in sustainable paper and packaging solutions. We are materials scientists, packaging designers, mechanical engineers and manufacturing experts with a shared purpose: Innovate Boldly. Package Sustainably. Guided by our values of integrity, respect, accountability and excellence, we use leading science and technology to move fiber-based packaging forward.

At Smurfit Westrock, we don’t just sell packaging — we solve problems, move markets, and fuel brand success. We’re looking for a driven, ambitious Business Development Manager ready to chase down opportunities and turn leads into long-term partnerships across FMCG, industrial, and food & beverage sectors. If you’re competitive, resourceful, and thrive on results — this is your stage.

What You’ll Do

  • Hunt for New Business: Own the full sales cycle — from prospecting to close — in folding cartons and packaging machinery.
  • Own Your Targets: Build and execute a winning strategy to hit ambitious growth goals.
  • Lead Onboarding Like a Pro: Rally cross-functional teams to deliver a smooth, high-impact customer experience.
  • Build Deep Relationships: Get in with Procurement, Ops, Marketing, and Tech — and stay in.
  • Negotiate with Confidence: Handle deals with a focus on long-term value, not just the quick win.
  • Keep the Pipeline Full: Stay sharp, stay organized, and always know what’s next.

What You Bring

  • A hunter’s mindset — self-starting, persistent, and motivated by results.
  • Strong commercial instincts and a strategic approach to complex sales.
  • Proven closer with excellent communication and negotiation skills.
  • Tech-savvy and comfortable managing your pipeline through CRM tools.
  • Comfortable working with technical specs, compliance, and supply chain dynamics.

Smurfit Westrock is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strive to create and maintain a diverse workforce where everyone feels valued, respected, and included. Smurfit Westrock does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law.

Business Development Manager - Packaging employer: WestRock Company

At Smurfit Westrock, we pride ourselves on being a leading employer in the sustainable packaging industry, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through comprehensive training programmes and opportunities for career advancement, all while promoting a culture of integrity and respect. Located in the UK, our team thrives on tackling challenges head-on, making a meaningful impact in the FMCG, industrial, and food & beverage sectors.
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Contact Detail:

WestRock Company Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Business Development Manager - Packaging

✨Tip Number 1

Network with professionals in the packaging industry. Attend trade shows, webinars, and local meetups to connect with potential colleagues and mentors who can provide insights into the role and company culture.

✨Tip Number 2

Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in sustainable packaging solutions. Being knowledgeable about innovations in the field will not only impress during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the company's values.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your sales strategies and successes in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've turned leads into long-term partnerships, as this aligns closely with the responsibilities of the role.

✨Tip Number 4

Research Smurfit Westrock's recent projects and initiatives. Understanding their current focus areas will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their mission.

We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Manager - Packaging

Business Development
Sales Strategy
Negotiation Skills
Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
Market Research
Communication Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Technical Knowledge of Packaging
Project Management
Networking Skills
Analytical Skills
Persistence and Resilience
Team Collaboration
Time Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Business Development Manager - Packaging position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the job description.

Craft a Compelling CV: Your CV should clearly showcase your relevant experience in business development, particularly in packaging or related sectors. Use quantifiable achievements to demonstrate your success in previous roles, such as sales targets met or new partnerships established.

Write a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Highlight your hunter's mindset and strategic approach to sales, and provide specific examples of how you've successfully navigated complex sales processes in the past.

Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in a business development role.

How to prepare for a job interview at WestRock Company

✨Research the Company

Before your interview, make sure to thoroughly research Smurfit Westrock. Understand their values, products, and recent developments in the packaging industry. This will help you align your answers with their mission of innovating boldly and packaging sustainably.

✨Demonstrate Your Sales Acumen

Be prepared to discuss your previous sales experiences and how you've successfully closed deals. Highlight your strategic approach to complex sales and provide specific examples of how you've built long-term partnerships in the past.

✨Showcase Your Technical Knowledge

Since the role involves working with technical specifications and compliance, be ready to discuss your familiarity with these areas. Mention any relevant tools or software you’ve used, especially CRM systems, to manage your sales pipeline effectively.

✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions

Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to work cross-functionally. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, demonstrating how you can rally teams to deliver a high-impact customer experience.

Business Development Manager - Packaging
WestRock Company
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