Why is this job for you:

The role of IT Application Specialist is designed to provide high‑quality support for IT applications, enhance existing solutions, and contribute to the ongoing development of the organisation’s applications architecture. It operates as part of the applications team, delivering project activities that introduce new solutions and ensure their smooth transition into standard operational service. The position is responsible for contributing to the building and management of IT assets in alignment with established processes and security standards, while maintaining a focus on cost‑effective delivery and continuous improvement. It is also intended for an individual seeking to broaden functional and technical expertise across the application landscape as part of ongoing professional development.

You will:

• Develop a good understanding of business strategy and future direction

• Maintain a good knowledge of DS Smith application and technical infrastructure

• Ensure all activities are carried out in line with the agreed processes and procedures

• Work with third party application providers, as necessary e.g. Version1 etc.

• Function as the recognised expert in specific application areas, providing advice and guidance to process owners and other business colleagues in order to maximise value from existing solutions and to identify areas for improvement

• Provide second line application support to existing live locations

• Propose potential areas for service improvement

• Document solutions and train service desk staff to allow an increasing number of incidents and requests to be resolved at first line

• Ensure application services are designed and delivered in line with internal IT SLAs.

• Develop end-user guidelines

• Undertake project work in line with overall project requirements and consistent with agreed IT Applications Architecture

• Ensure new solutions meet service needs and are successfully transitioned into “business as usual” service & associated support

• Contribute to the ongoing development of the IT Applications Architecture

• Work closely with stakeholders, IT business analysts, and colleagues to understand business requirements and to drive the analysis and design of quality application solutions

• Manage full system life cycle

• Take responsibility for designing, testing, implementing, maintaining and supporting application software to ensure it is delivered on time and within budget  

• Where applications support is outsourced, work closely with third party providers to deliver solutions to DS Smith standards and expectations

You have:

• Good IT background

• Fluency in English

• Proven ability to investigate and troubleshoot problems

• Proven analytical and problem-solving abilities

• Experience of a mixed internal and outsourced applications model

• Experience and knowledge of business application / ERP solutions

• Experience in process definition and documentation

• The ability to understand, and document operational processes and align future workflows. Perform Gap analyses and define IT system requirements

• A good understanding of IT processes including Application support and Change management

• A solid understanding of IT infrastructure and how it supports the application landscape

• Ability to present ideas in a user-friendly language

• Excellent communication skills (both verbal and written)