Jan 16, 2013. /Lesprom Network/. The Board of DS Smith Plc announces that Steve Dryden, Group Finance Director, 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, as the company said in a press release received by Lesprom Network. 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." 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." DS Smith Plc is a leading international supplier of recycled packaging for consumer goods, and one of the largest manufacturers of corrugated products in Europe, with a strong focus on service, quality and innovation.