New impetus in the HR department of DS Smith Austria

Von WOM

In the world of packaging there was a current change that ensures a fresh wind. Stefan Lackner was appointed as the new HR manager for DS Smith Austria. Born in Vienna, the company brings fresh ideas and a dynamic leadership style to the personnel department of the company, which is known for its corrugated cardboard packaging. DS Smith operates three locations in Austria and specializes in sustainable packaging solutions.

Lackner, 33 years old, sees the challenge to inspire young talents for technical professions. In order to promote the profession of packaging technician, he has commissioned appealing social media videos. "These videos are a step to make young people aware of the importance and the possibilities in the packaging sector," said the new HR manager. The pressure on the HR department increases, because the demand for packaging has remained stable due to the increased online orders during the pandemic.

The focus on the next generations

currently DS Smith employs more than 440 people in Austria, spread over the locations in Graz/Kalsdorf and Margarethen on the moss. Lackner follows a clear strategy: he wants to promote a diverse work environment in the workforce. "It is important to me that the workforce from talented apprentices to experienced managers is set up in many ways," he emphasized. To support this, he organized getting to know each other for all apprentices to promote their networking and career opportunities.

With a clear view of equal opportunities, Lackner has remarkably placed many former apprentices in leading positions within the company. This underlines the positive possibilities that DS Smith offers its employees. He is determined to continue this trend and to support the growth of the workforce.

In order to continue to win young people for technical professions, creative videos are developed that show the various career paths in the company. The apprenticeships include packaging technicians, locksmiths and electricians. DS Smith relies on incentives to increase the motivation of employees, including innovative initiatives such as health weeks and a food truck.

creativity and sustainability in focus

Lackner demands spraying ideas from his employees and shows how important innovation is in the company. An example of this is the new "DS Smith Lift Up"-a 100 percent recyclable handle made of corrugated cardboard for 1.5-liter PET bottles. This innovative approach reduces the use of plastic and contributes to the vision of DS Smith to design sustainable packaging solutions that meet the current environmental requirements.

How can all of this be summarized? Stefan Lackner not only brings new ideas, but also a fresh wind into the personnel strategy of DS Smith. With a clear focus on young talents, equal opportunities and sustainable solutions, he is on the best way to help shape the future of the company positively. Companies such as DS Smith who focus on innovation and sustainability are set by new standards in industry and offer hope for future generations.