BAT is evolving at pace into a global multi-category business. Our purpose is to create A Better Tomorrow™ by Building a Smokeless World. To achieve our ambition, we are looking for colleagues who are ready to join us on this journey! Tomorrow can’t wait, let’s shape it together.
British American Tobacco UK – Scientist II – Toxicology, Southampton
What are the key objectives and expectations from this role? This is an excellent opportunity for a professional to join an FMCG FTSE 100 company, looking to support the business program to shape product safety approaches for the BAT smokeless and combustibles portfolio.
The purpose of the role is to lead the toxicological ingredient and material evaluations in accordance with guidelines from the Product Stewardship Council (PSC) in line with the R&D Policy Framework, Corporate Positions, and specific legislation for our product categories. The role will deliver toxicological programmes that can unlock novel products and ingredients commercially, while supporting the communication of our science to help position BAT as industry experts whilst achieving desired business growth.
What is the direct impact of this role on the team or organization? The role will be the key contact to organise the toxicological assessment of novel ingredients, materials and technologies to be used in the development of BAT products. They will direct the work of evaluators delivering desk‑based toxicological evaluations in accordance with internal BAT guidelines and the R&D policy framework in order to support BAT’s portfolio. Toxicological evaluations will be carried out to support all stages of product development. This role encompasses strategic scope, with the delivery and communication of toxicological data packages for the identified ingredients and products across categories. The role will require new processes to be created to streamline evaluations and will require formalisation of processes through robust documentation.
Role holder will be responsible for own and others’ workload management and communicating with stakeholders (line managers and Project teams) on progress to achieve business milestones. The role reports to a Senior Scientist and will manage 2 to 4 direct reports. Core relationships are internal, including close collaboration with all Toxicology group members, and external stakeholders such as consultants and suppliers.
Your key responsibilities will include:
* Be a knowledgeable and enabling partner to the project teams, guiding them on the toxicology evaluations, tests and design needed to build the data packages from early‑stage sensory testing of prototypes to commercial launch.
* Author, review and sign off risk assessments as part of the toxicological evaluation of new ingredients, technologies, and materials.
* Support the development of strategies for toxicological evaluation of platform products, whilst challenging existing processes to identify and improve ways of working across the department with the endorsement of the Product Stewardship Council (PSC).
* Apply appropriate solutions or approaches to identify and resolve problems based on an understanding and experience of biology, toxicology, or chemistry.
* Accountable to lead a sub‑team within the category to effectively deliver on projects and Toxicology workstreams, whilst supporting the development needs of your team.
* Oversee the planning and execution of risk assessments, working collaboratively within the team to deliver on time and in full for the business.
* Provide training and coaching to junior members of the team and the wider business.
* Maintain and build effective working relationships with internal stakeholders, suppliers, and designated contacts within BAT.
What are we looking for?
Experience Required
* Relevant science background equivalent to a degree level qualification, preferably with a good understanding of the principles of Toxicology. Ideally demonstrated technical background in toxicology test packages, particularly risk assessment.
* Managing projects and ability to thrive in a dynamic environment, managing changing priorities and solving complex problems.
* Proficient computing skills to facilitate use of in‑house database and skilled user of Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
* Proven oral and written communication skills. Ability to engage with and influence senior leadership.
* People leadership and excellent interpersonal skills.
* Proven experience in coaching, mentoring, and training others.
* Positive ‘can do’ mindset.
* Awareness of technical developments in toxicology & regulations (tobacco & consumer goods) desirable.
* Excellent communication, organisational, and planning skills, and ability work both as a team member and independently.
Education / Qualifications / Certifications Required
* MSc in Toxicology (or another relevant subject) advantageous.
* Relevant science background equivalent to a higher degree level qualification in a biology or biochemistry discipline, with good understanding of the principles of Toxicology.
Benefits
* We offer a market‑leading annual performance bonus (subject to eligibility).
* Our range of benefits varies by country and includes diverse health plans, initiatives for work‑life balance, transportation support, and a flexible holiday plan with additional incentives.
* You’ll have access to online learning platforms and personalised growth programmes to nurture your leadership skills.
* We prioritise continuous improvement within a transformative environment, preparing for ongoing changes.
Understanding of the regulatory toxicology frameworks for foodstuffs and cosmetics.
Member of a relevant professional body such as the British Toxicology Society.
Equal Opportunity Employment Statement
We recognise that our strength lies in embracing talent from all walks of life, empowering us to develop our culture of inclusivity and better achieve our business objectives. We take pride in being a Disability Confident Employer. If you need reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please inform the recruitment partner who will be in touch should your profile be selected for the role you applied for.
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