External Communications Associate Review

My main job role has been managing the press office. This has included responding to enquiries from journalists, answering the press office phone and developing media materials such as statements which are sent out to various news outlets.
I have also had the opportunity to assist with the creation of social media posts, which have been used on Pfizer UK's channels.
I had a lot of interaction with various teams across the business.

I was given more responsibility during my placement year than I ever thought I would.
Pfizer provided me with the essential training I needed to carry out important tasks, and then allowed me to lead in a lot of priority areas.
Although my placement experience was online, I have learned so much and I am looking forward to applying this in my future career.

I now know how important it is to prioritise tasks and remain calm under pressure - especially during busy days.
Up until last year, I never thought I would work in the Pharma industry- I assumed that jobs in this sector were restricted to those with a science/medical degree. Applying for placements truly made me realise the hugely diverse working culture within large businesses, and the range of personalities/ skill sets that are needed for a company to run successfully. Although I am studying a Comms degree, the specific placement opportunity for me was available in sector I had never thought I would work in.
This past year has surpassed all my expectations. Every day has been different, and I’ve learned something new at ever stage of my placement.

I received a lot of support from my manager, my team and the rest of the business. I also had a designated buddy in my team to help me settle in.
If I ever had a question, I knew who to go to for support, and was always met with a welcome response and a 'happy to help' attitude.

Pfizer has a great company culture, and it always felt like senior members of the business cared a lot about all their staff- even placement students.
My team had a lot of social events and activities (although online because of the pandemic), to ensure that team members could bond.
Pfizer also gives staff members volunteering days which I utilised.

My time with Pfizer has confirmed my interest in Comms as a future career. It has also opened my eyes to the diversity of working within large companies.
I'm so glad I completed a placement with Pfizer, and would highly recommend them as a company to work for.

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