📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Internal Communications Channel Manager, EMEA
🔹 Company: DS Smith
🔹 Location: London, United Kingdom
🔹 Job Type: Full-Time, Fixed Term Contract (12 months)
🔹 Category: Communications
🔹 Date Posted: May 2, 2025
🔹 Experience Level: 5-10 years
🔹 Remote Status: Hybrid (split between home working and London office)
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Developing and implementing a successful, employee-first channel strategy for wired and non-wired employees across the EMEA region
- Integrating internal communication channels where appropriate, following the recent combination of DS Smith and International Paper
- Building a content strategy that aligns with the company's purpose, narrative, values, culture, and business plan
- Measuring and using data to inform decisions and drive conversation, collaboration, and connection across the organization
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strategic mindset, strong project management skills, and the ability to work effectively in a global, matrix organization.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Building and implementing a new, employee-first channel strategy that drives conversation, collaboration, and connection across the organization
✅ Integrating internal communication channels where appropriate, following the recent combination of DS Smith and International Paper
✅ Building a content strategy that aligns with the company's purpose, narrative, values, culture, and business plan
✅ Measuring and using data to inform decisions and drive engagement across the organization
✅ Collaborating with global teams and internal communication business partners (ICBPs) to integrate channels and align strategies
ASSUMPTION: This role involves working closely with various stakeholders, both within the communications team and across the broader organization.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree in Communications, Marketing, or a related field
Experience: Extensive internal communication channels experience in large, complex, global, matrix organizations
Required Skills:
- Proven experience in developing and implementing a successful, world-class channel strategy for wired and non-wired employees
- Strong track record in data-driven decision-making
- Expertise in tools such as Poppulo, Office 365 (Power BI, Viva Engage, SharePoint, MS Teams, and Town Halls)
- Excellent project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously and deliver results under pressure and to tight deadlines
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
Preferred Skills:
- Experience with building or revamping modern company intranets
- Experience with integrating channels and working on M&A communications
- Fluency in multiple languages
ASSUMPTION: Candidates with experience in a similar role within a large, complex organization and a proven track record in developing successful channel strategies will be most competitive for this position.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: £50,000 - £65,000 per annum (pro-rata for the fixed-term contract)
Benefits:
- Competitive salary
- Discretionary bonus scheme
- 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
- Pension scheme, life assurance, and income protection
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Employee discounts
- Cycle to work scheme
Working Hours: Full-time, typically Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (with flexibility for the role)
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for similar roles in the London area. The actual salary may vary depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: DS Smith is a leading producer of sustainable packaging, containerboard, and pulp products across Europe and the US. They recently combined with International Paper to create the global leader in sustainable packaging solutions.
Company Size: DS Smith has over 10,000 employees worldwide, providing a large and diverse work environment.
Founded: DS Smith was founded in 1940, with a rich history in the packaging industry.
Company Description:
- DS Smith provides innovative packaging solutions, paper products, and recycling services with a commitment to sustainability and a circular economy.
- The company's core purpose is to Redefine Packaging for a Changing World, working closely with like-minded partners to incorporate renewable resources for products that minimize environmental impact, reduce complexity, and increase profitability through supply chain optimization.
- DS Smith operates in over 30 countries, supporting customers across various sectors like FMCG, industrial, and e-commerce.
Company Specialties:
- Packaging Design
- Innovative Packaging
- Industrial Packaging
- Retail and Shelf-Ready Packaging
- Promotional Packaging
- POS Displays
- Consumer Packaging
- Corrugated Pallets
- Recycling and Paper
Company Website: http://www.dssmith.com
ASSUMPTION: DS Smith's focus on sustainability and innovation makes it an attractive employer for candidates interested in making a positive impact on the environment.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: This role is at the senior manager level, reporting to the Employee Experience Senior Manager.
Reporting Structure: The Channels Manager will work closely with global teams and internal communication business partners (ICBPs) to integrate channels and align strategies.
Work Arrangement: This is a hybrid role, split between home working and the Head Office in Paddington, London.
Growth Opportunities:
- Following the successful completion of the 12-month fixed-term contract, there may be opportunities for extension or permanent placement, depending on business needs.
- As DS Smith continues to grow and evolve, there may be opportunities for career progression within the communications team or broader organization.
ASSUMPTION: This role offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on the organization's internal communications strategy and contribute to its overall success.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: The Head Office in Paddington, London, is a modern, collaborative workspace.
Office Location(s): 7th Floor, 350 Euston Road, Regent’s Place, London, NW1 3AX, UK
Geographic Context:
- The London office is conveniently located near major transportation links, offering easy access to the city and its amenities.
- London is a vibrant, multicultural city with a rich history and diverse range of attractions, including museums, theaters, and parks.
- The city is also home to a thriving food and drink scene, with numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars to explore.
Work Schedule: The standard workweek is Monday to Friday, with core hours of 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. However, the role may require flexibility to accommodate global team meetings and deadlines.
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be comfortable working in a hybrid environment and be able to manage their time effectively to balance remote and office-based work.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application submission
- Phone or video screening with the hiring manager
- In-depth interview with the hiring manager and other stakeholders
- Final interview with the senior leadership team
Key Assessment Areas:
- Strategic thinking and channel development
- Data-driven decision-making and analytics
- Project management and stakeholder engagement
- Communication skills and cultural fit
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills, particularly in internal communication channels, data-driven decision-making, and project management.
- Be prepared to discuss your approach to developing a successful channel strategy and integrating channels in a large, complex organization.
- Demonstrate your understanding of DS Smith's business and commitment to sustainability.
ATS Keywords: Internal Communication, Channel Strategy, Data-Driven Decision Making, Project Management, Digital Savvy, Content Strategy, Employee Engagement, M&A Communications, Intranet Development, Collaboration, Communication Skills, Technical Skills, Stakeholder Management, Best Practices, Innovation, Community Building
ASSUMPTION: DS Smith uses an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to manage job applications, so including relevant keywords in your resume can help improve your chances of being shortlisted.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Poppulo
- Office 365 (Power BI, Viva Engage, SharePoint, MS Teams, and Town Halls)
- Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, or Microsoft Project)
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should have experience with the listed tools and be comfortable learning new technologies as needed.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Sustainability: DS Smith is committed to redefining packaging for a changing world and promoting a circular economy.
- Innovation: The company encourages creativity, continuous learning, and improvement.
- Collaboration: DS Smith fosters a culture of teamwork and open communication.
Work Style:
- Global mindset: The role requires working with global teams and understanding diverse perspectives.
- Data-driven: Candidates should be comfortable using data to inform decisions and measure success.
- Adaptable: The role may require flexibility to accommodate changing priorities and deadlines.
Self-Assessment Questions:
- How do you align with DS Smith's commitment to sustainability and innovation?
- Can you provide an example of a time when you successfully integrated internal communication channels in a large, complex organization?
- How do you prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring you meet tight deadlines?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should carefully consider how their personal values and work style align with DS Smith's company culture and values before applying.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- The role requires managing multiple complex projects simultaneously, which can be challenging and demanding at times.
- Working in a global, matrix organization can present unique challenges in terms of communication, collaboration, and decision-making.
- The role may require flexibility to accommodate global team meetings and deadlines, which could impact work-life balance.
- London can be an expensive city to live in, with a higher cost of living compared to some other UK locations.
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should carefully consider these potential challenges and ensure they are comfortable with the demands of the role before applying.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- This role is unique in its focus on developing and implementing an employee-first channel strategy for the newly combined EMEA region following the merger of DS Smith and International Paper.
- While there may be similar roles in other organizations, the specific context and requirements of this role make it distinct.
- Career progression opportunities may vary depending on the organization's size, structure, and growth prospects.
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should research similar roles in the industry to better understand the unique aspects of this opportunity and how it compares to other available positions.
📝 Sample Projects
- Developing and implementing a new channel strategy for a global organization, integrating multiple channels and stakeholders
- Measuring and analyzing data to inform decision-making and drive engagement across the organization
- Managing a team or cross-functional project to deliver a major internal communications initiative
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with similar projects and how they have successfully delivered results in a large, complex organization.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- Can you describe the current state of internal communication channels within the EMEA region and the priorities for the first 90 days in this role?
- How does this role fit into the broader communications team and the organization's overall strategy?
- What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) for success in this role, and how will progress be measured?
- How does DS Smith support the professional development and growth of its employees, particularly in the communications team?
- What is the company's approach to work-life balance, particularly for hybrid and remote workers?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate their interest in the role and the organization, as well as their understanding of the key priorities and challenges.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through this link: https://dssmith.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/careers/job/London/Internal-Communications-Channel-Manager--EMEA_R-10289
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills, particularly in internal communication channels, data-driven decision-making, and project management.
- Prepare for your interview by researching DS Smith's business, industry trends, and the specific challenges and opportunities presented by this role.
- If selected for the final interview, be prepared to present a sample channel strategy or project plan that demonstrates your approach to developing and implementing successful internal communication channels.
- Follow up with the hiring manager within one week of your interview to express your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the role.
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
