Directorate Change

8 January 2013

DS SMITH PLC - Directorate Change

The Board of DS Smith Plc (the "Company or "DS Smith") announces that Steve Dryden, Group Finance Director, has informed the Company that he intends to step down from the Board to take up a role in a private equity backed business. The Board has commenced a process for the selection of an appropriate candidate as successor.

Mr Dryden's 12 month notice period expires in January 2014. In the meantime, he will continue to carry out his executive responsibilities as well as concluding the integration of SCA Packaging and ensuring a smooth transition of responsibilities to his successor, prior to leaving DS Smith.

Gareth Davies, Chairman of DS Smith said:

"Steve has done an excellent job for DS Smith over the last five years. He has been instrumental in significantly re-shaping the Group in line with our strategic aim to become the leader in recycled packaging for consumer goods."

Miles Roberts, Chief Executive of DS Smith said:
"Steve has made a significant contribution to DS Smith. I have enjoyed working with him and wish him well in his new choice of career."

Steve Dryden, Group Finance Director said:

"This was a difficult decision as I am proud of DS Smith's achievements and am confident that I leave the company in good shape and well positioned to continue to grow, having undertaken a smooth transition to my successor."

Enquiries:

DS Smith Plc +44 (0)1628 583 400

Miles Roberts, Group Chief Executive

Louise Richardson, Interim Head of Investor Relations

Tulchan +44 (0)20 7353 4200

John Sunnucks, David Allchurch