Quality Development Specialist

BAT is evolving at pace into a global multi-category business.  We are on a mission to decrease the health impact of our industry 
To achieve our ambition, we are looking for colleagues who are ready to Be The Change. Come, join us on this journey!

What are the key objectives and expectations from this role?  

Working with key partners in developing and implementing appropriate quality methods to test cigarettes and other x-category prototypes; ensure appropriate controls are in place (equipment maintenance/validation) and staff have required technical expertise to operate and report results.

What is the direct impact of this role on the team or organization?

Provide expert QC support to the IDC, Product and other R&D partners, at all stages of the product development life cycle.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Detailed understanding of analytical science and appropriate techniques relevant to the testing of tobacco and/or other novel prototypes or materials (e.g. packaging materials).
• Management of the testing work schedule through co-ordination with planning and manufacturing teams.
• Ensure all Quality reports are available in a timely and efficient manner, as per agreed project timelines (OTIF).
• Competent to calibrate & operate laboratory equipment as per SOP’s/Methods, with work conducted using the principles of Best Laboratory Practice.
• Track maintenance of all equipment, as per agreed maintenance & validation cycles, coordinating supplier/vendor visits to complete servicing/maintenance activities.
• Proficient in use of quality laboratory information management systems (i.e. LIMS / Nugensis).
• Fully proficient in completing tasks or activities associated with the receipt, preparation & physical measurement of samples.
• Recognised proficiency in all relevant laboratory techniques used to characterise tobacco, Heating Products, Modern Oral, Vapour, and/or other novel prototypes or materials.

What are we looking for?

• Proven experience in the tobacco, food, environmental, forensic, pharmaceutical or contract analytical services industries.
• Skilled use and understanding of preparative and instrumental techniques applicable to the isolation and measurement of the physical properties of materials.
• Relevant technical experience resulting in a thorough knowledge of good laboratory practice, principles of sample preparation, measurement & analysis, and relevant experience in measurement & analytical techniques.
• Effective communicator - able to engage effectively at all levels, with a flexible communication style which can be adapted to suit the audience. 
• Problem-solver - tenacious and will use creativity and an analytical approach and recognized Root Cause Analysis techniques to identify a satisfactory solution.
• Consumer focused – capable of understanding the project objectives and consumer needs and identifying existing or novel test methods that measure success of the innovation.
• Creative, flexible, receptive to change, focused and able to deliver under tight timelines.
• Professional/academic achievement in Chemistry or a related physical science or engineering up to 1st degree level or equivalent experience. 

Beneficial

• Lean 6 Sigma qualification and experience leading continuous improvement activities.
• Experience using Minitab or equivalent statistical tools.
• Experience using digital & programming tools such as PowerBI, PowerApps, R, Python.
• Familiar with Methods of Product Development tools (i.e. APM, TFS, BBoA, FMEA).

What we offer you?
•    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
•    Your journey with us isn't limited by boundaries; it's propelled by your aspirations. Join us at BAT and become a part of an environment that thrives on internal advancement, where your career progression isn't just a statement – it's a reality we're eager to build together. Seize the opportunity and own your development; your next chapter starts here.
•    You'll have access to online learning platforms and personalized growth programs to nurture your leadership skills
•    We prioritise continuous improvement within a transformative environment, preparing for ongoing changes

WHY JOIN BAT?
We’re one of the few companies named as a Global Top Employer by the Top Employers Institute – certified in offering excellent employee conditions.

At BAT, we champion collaboration, inclusion, and partnership as the bedrock of our values. We wish to foster an environment where every individual can thrive, irrespective of factors such as gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, skills, experience, education, socio-economic and professional background, as well as diverse perspectives and thinking styles. 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 view career breaks not as obstacles but as opportunities and encourage everyone, without hesitation, to apply. Through our Global Returners program, we provide support to professionals seeking to re-enter the workforce after an extended absence, be it for family care, parental leave, national service, sabbatical, or starting their own venture.
Come bring your difference and see what is possible for you at BAT. Learn more about our culture and our award winning employee experience here.

We take pride in being a Disability Confident Employer. If you need any reasonable adjustments or accommodations to be made during the recruitment process to support you performing at your best, please inform the recruitment partner who will be in touch should your profile be selected for the role you applied for. We are wholeheartedly committed to optimising your prospects of success by making suitable arrangements so that you may showcase your full potential.