Product Regulatory Compliance Intern Review

As a Product Regulatory Compliance (PRC) Intern, I was responsible for conducting compliance assessments of ingredients and reduced-risk nicotine products, evaluating findings against regulatory requirements and presenting outcomes to senior stakeholders. I also developed a solution to improve the organisation and accessibility of compliance data, helping to streamline processes and increase efficiency.
Alongside my work in PRC, I had the opportunity to work within the Science Plans & Claims team. This allowed me to lead an independent project, work with a range of stakeholders across the business and gain exposure to different functions and ways of working.

Yes, I was trusted with a high level of responsibility, including managing my own projects and leading team meetings. At the same time, I had access to support whenever required.

Yes, I have developed a range of new skills while also strengthening existing ones. My presentation and communication skills have improved significantly, particularly when presenting technical information to non-technical audiences. I have also gained experience in cross-functional collaboration, working with various stakeholders from different teams.
The placement also provided opportunities to explore areas and develop skills beyond my core role. For example, I completed laboratory training and gained exposure to work in the pre-clinical lab, which allowed me to broaden my understanding of other parts of the business despite the role itself being primarily office-based.

I received a high level of support and guidance throughout my placement. From the start, I was assigned a line manager, a buddy within my department, a placement team buddy and a mentor who was matched to me based on the goals I wanted to achieve during the year. My line manager was particularly supportive throughout the placement. She was always approachable, provided regular guidance and feedback, and played a huge role in making my experience both enjoyable and rewarding.
The placement team also organised inductions, training sessions, and skills workshops for the intern cohort, providing valuable development opportunities throughout the year. In addition, everyone across both my immediate and wider teams was extremely welcoming and supportive, treating me as a valued member of the team rather than "just an intern".

The company culture was welcoming, supportive and less formal than I had expected. Everyone was approachable and genuinely willing to help interns learn, creating a positive and collaborative working environment. There were also plenty of opportunities to socialise through both site-wide events and team activities.

I thoroughly enjoyed my placement and feel that it helped me develop both professionally and personally. Throughout the year, I gained a wide range of skills, built my confidence, and was encouraged to step outside my comfort zone in ways I would not have anticipated before starting. The experience also gave me a much clearer understanding of the type of career I would like to pursue in the future. Having an intern cohort alongside me was another highlight, as it provided a strong support network and the opportunity to connect with others who were going through a similar experience.
Overall, I am very glad I chose BAT for my placement and would highly recommend it to other students considering a year in industry.

Yes