Product Development Intern Review

Working at British American Tobacco was a very enjoyable and rewarding experience. British American Tobacco is a large multinational corporation which allowed me as a placement student to see how different parts of the organisation work together which was cool, especially relating to parts of processes which are not covered in university courses

All members of my team, as well as the upper management make time for the placement students and placement program in general. I felt like a valuable member of the team contributing to the business' larger corporate goals, which was a pleasant surprise compared to placement horror stories. The dedicated placement team also provide additional support if required with mentors and buddies

My team offered me a large amount of support when it was needed, especially at the start of the placement when it was required most. My line manager was very effective at knowing when support was needed and when I needed to figure things out by myself, this guidance along with freedom has allowed me to grow while at British American Tobacco.

As with most jobs based around deadlines there were busier and less busy periods throughout my year at British American Tobacco. However the busy periods affected the whole team and increased the sense of comradery in the team, during slower times I was always found engaging tasks around the company even if not specifically related to the team.

During my time at British American Tobacco I was given responsibility over specific projects throughout the year as was allowed to manage them as such, with guidance of course. Also when completing work for my line manager or project manager the responsibility of producing such work was mine, this was great as it allowed me to continually develop my time management skills as well as communication skills. Help however was always available if I requested it.

Placement at British American Tobacco has allowed to develop a large range of skills as well as confidence within the workforce. I believe that this will be invaluable in my future studies and career, not only while working within an organisation but also in securing employment, through an improved CV and interview, after university

The atmosphere in the office has a good overall vibe with many project teams working in close proximity with constant action in and around the office. There is also ample opportunity to work in different offices around the company if your position dictates which adds some diversity to the daily office work.

The placement was run very smoothly with a large a large amount of training and courses run for the students throughout the year and plenty of opportunities to use these skills within a corporate climate. The teams have a good understanding of the learning curve that a student will go through and take this into account with your workload early on.

British American Tobacco invested a large amount of time in the placement program and the students, and give you the opportunity to go on group trainings with expert speakers, these were excellent opportunities. Personal development training is offered but will depend on team specifics rather than blanket offerings to the placement students

The company has a lot of returning students as well as offering a graduate program to the placement students as a fast track through the company these are great opportunities and British American Tobacco is an excellent place to work with great people and benefits, I would definitely consider returning to employment with British American Tobacco.

Induction days to meet everyone beforehand and organise living accommodation.

The living cost is very similar to any city university.

Plenty of pubs, bars and nightclubs. Normal student atmosphere as there are two universities in Southampton.

Plenty of clubs and activities with the company and all normal city amenities for everything else.