7 Dec 2023: DS Smith Plc today announces that Miles Roberts has informed the Company of his intention, following 13 years with the Company, to retire from the Board and from his role as CEO. It is intended that Miles’ formal notice period will start on 1 December 2024, which means that he would retire from the Board and step down as CEO no later than 30 November 2025. This will give the Company an appropriate amount of time to identify and appoint his successor.

A thorough recruitment process will be conducted and Miles will remain as a director of the Company and CEO throughout and will continue to focus on delivering strong performance from the Group and on supporting an orderly transition to his successor.

Geoff Drabble, Chair of the Company said “There will be plenty of time to thank Miles properly when he leaves, but he has served the Company exceptionally over the last 13 years and has transformed the Group into what it is today. He will be much missed by both the Board and his colleagues within the wider business.”

Miles Roberts added “I have enjoyed every moment of my career with DS Smith and it has been a pleasure to work with my colleagues and the Company’s customers, suppliers and other stakeholders. After 13 years this seemed like the appropriate time to make this announcement, so that a proper succession and orderly handover process can take place. In the meantime I remain fully focussed on continuing to develop and strengthen our business and leadership in the circular economy”.

Further announcements regarding Miles’ leaving date and the appointment of his successor will be made in due course.

Iain Simm
Group General Counsel and Company Secretary

This announcement contains inside information which is disclosed in accordance with the UK Market Abuse Regulation. The person responsible for arranging the release of this announcement is Iain Simm, Company Secretary of DS Smith Plc.

Note: Section 430(2B) Companies Act 2006 statement
A statement concerning particulars of remuneration payments in accordance with section 430(2B) of the Companies Act 2006 will be released when the date of Miles Roberts’ retirement from the Board is known.