DS Smith Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

DS Smith has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and market development.

Driven by innovation, DS Smith is dedicated to creating 100 percent sustainable and recyclable packaging solutions, leveraging its integrated recycling and papermaking operations to deliver impactful market solutions.

Leadership Roles at DS Smith

  • Chief Executive Officer - Angelo Hopson
  • President & Chief Operating Officer - Richard Smith
  • President - David Higginbotham
  • Executive Vice President and President, DS Smith - Timothy Nicholls
  • Angelo Hopson - Chief Executive Officer

    Angelo Hopson, the Chief Executive Officer at DS Smith, directs the overarching corporate strategy and vision. Hopson guides the company's expansion in sustainable packaging solutions, ensuring alignment with market demands for recyclable materials. This leadership role involves fostering innovation across the papermaking and recycling divisions, driving operational efficiencies, and maintaining strong investor relations. Angelo Hopson's strategic direction ensures DS Smith remains a leader in the corrugated packaging sector, emphasizing environmental responsibility and economic viability. The Chief Executive Officer's focus extends to global market penetration and the development of long-term growth initiatives, solidifying the company's position through robust business planning and execution.

    Richard Smith - President & Chief Operating Officer

    Richard Smith, the President & Chief Operating Officer at DS Smith, executes the company's operational blueprint and manages day-to-day business functions. Smith oversees the integrated supply chain, from papermaking and recycling operations to the final corrugated packaging production. This critical role ensures seamless integration between manufacturing processes and customer delivery, optimizing resource allocation and enhancing production efficiency. Richard Smith's leadership drives the implementation of sustainable practices throughout the operational lifecycle, directly supporting DS Smith's commitment to 100 percent recyclable solutions. The President & Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include managing plant performance, implementing technological advancements, and ensuring adherence to stringent quality and environmental standards across all facilities.

    David Higginbotham - President

    David Higginbotham, the President at DS Smith, spearheads market development and strategic partnerships. Higginbotham focuses on expanding DS Smith's reach within the corrugated packaging industry, identifying new opportunities for sustainable solutions. This leadership position involves cultivating relationships with key clients and stakeholders, ensuring the company's offerings meet evolving market needs for eco-friendly packaging. David Higginbotham's strategic initiatives aim to enhance the company's competitive edge by promoting innovation in packaging design and material science. The President's oversight extends to commercial strategies, driving revenue growth and reinforcing DS Smith's reputation for quality and sustainability in the global marketplace.

    Timothy Nicholls - Executive Vice President and President, DS Smith

    Timothy Nicholls, the Executive Vice President and President, DS Smith, directs significant operational segments and strategic growth initiatives. Nicholls oversees key business units, ensuring their performance aligns with the company's broader objectives of providing sustainable and recyclable packaging. This executive role involves driving operational excellence and fostering innovation within DS Smith's core manufacturing and recycling processes. Timothy Nicholls's leadership focuses on enhancing market presence and developing advanced packaging solutions that meet stringent environmental standards. The Executive Vice President and President, DS Smith, plays a crucial part in managing cross-functional teams to achieve ambitious targets for efficiency, customer satisfaction, and market expansion.
    Timothy Nicholls

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding DS Smith Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads DS Smith?
    DS Smith is led by Angelo Hopson (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Richard Smith (President & Chief Operating Officer) and David Higginbotham (President).
    Who is part of DS Smith’s executive team?
    The executive team of DS Smith includes leaders such as Angelo Hopson (Chief Executive Officer), Richard Smith (President & Chief Operating Officer), David Higginbotham (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does DS Smith have?
    DS Smith has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in DS Smith’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of DS Smith includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Operating Officer, President, Executive Vice President and President, DS Smith.