DS Smith Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Driven by a commitment to sustainability, DS Smith provides 100 percent recyclable packaging solutions, leveraging integrated recycling and papermaking operations to shape the future of responsible packaging.

Leadership Roles at DS Smith

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

    Angelo Hopson, the Chief Executive Officer at DS Smith, directs the overarching corporate strategy and vision. Overseeing global operations, Angelo Hopson ensures alignment with the company's mission to provide sustainable and recyclable packaging solutions. This leadership role involves driving innovation across the papermaking and corrugated packaging divisions, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. By optimizing resource allocation and strategic partnerships, Angelo Hopson directly impacts DS Smith's market position and financial performance. Ultimately, Hopson secures long-term growth and operational excellence, reinforcing the company's commitment to environmental responsibility and customer satisfaction across its integrated supply chain.

    Richard Smith - President & Chief Operating Officer

    Richard Smith, the President & Chief Operating Officer at DS Smith, executes the day-to-day operational strategies and manages the global business functions. Richard Smith oversees the entire production lifecycle, from papermaking and recycling operations to the final corrugated packaging output, ensuring efficiency and quality. This critical role involves optimizing supply chain logistics and manufacturing processes to meet increasing market demand for sustainable packaging. By driving operational excellence across all facilities, Richard Smith directly contributes to DS Smith's ability to deliver innovative and eco-friendly solutions. Smith's leadership ensures seamless integration between recycling, papermaking, and packaging divisions, solidifying the company's reputation for reliability and environmental stewardship.

    Timothy Nicholls - Executive Vice President and President, DS Smith

    Timothy Nicholls, the Executive Vice President and President, DS Smith at DS Smith, spearheads strategic initiatives and market expansion for the company's core packaging business. Timothy Nicholls directs the development and implementation of innovative corrugated packaging solutions, aligning product offerings with evolving customer needs and sustainability goals. This executive position involves close collaboration with operational teams to ensure seamless integration of recycling and papermaking resources into the packaging production process. By fostering strong client relationships and identifying new market opportunities, Timothy Nicholls directly enhances DS Smith's global reach and competitive advantage. Nicholls' leadership ensures the company remains at the forefront of sustainable packaging innovation, driving revenue growth and operational efficiency across key international markets.
    Timothy Nicholls

    David Higginbotham - President

    David Higginbotham, the President at DS Smith, drives strategic growth and market penetration across key business segments. David Higginbotham oversees the integration of recycling, papermaking, and corrugated packaging operations to deliver comprehensive, sustainable solutions to a diverse client base. This leadership function involves identifying emerging market trends and developing innovative packaging strategies that meet stringent environmental standards. By fostering cross-functional collaboration and optimizing resource utilization, David Higginbotham directly supports DS Smith's mission of creating 100 percent recyclable packaging. Higginbotham's focus on operational efficiency and market responsiveness ensures the company maintains its leadership position in the sustainable packaging industry.

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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 Timothy Nicholls (Executive Vice President and President, DS Smith).
    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), Timothy Nicholls (Executive Vice President and President, DS Smith) 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, Executive Vice President and President, DS Smith, President.