Design Placement 2027

British American Tobacco UK has an exciting opportunity for an UNDERGRADUATE INTERN – DESIGN in London or Southampton – Fixed-term (12 months)

We have an exciting opportunity for students who are currently undertaking a degree in Industrial Design, Product design, Packaging Design, or Visual Design (or a related Design subject) to join our Research & Development function, based in London or Southampton, on a 12-month undergraduate placement.

This placement is with our Global Design Team and will focus on developing consumer-facing packaging experiences for our New Category products. The opportunity reaches beyond the functional purpose of protection, and focuses on the total product experience across categories, where for some products, the packaging is an inherent part of the product experience.

This role will explore structural and visual design proposals for our future New Categories product packaging, establishing creative viewpoints on developing compelling user experiences that lead up to a coherent total product experience, building long term consumer engagement.

This role is due to start in September 2027, and we will be shortlisting applications and carrying out video/ online interviews whilst the advert is live. We will look to make an offer to the successful candidate as close to the closing date as possible. However, the vetting and onboarding processes for successful candidates won’t begin until the role is opened in our system, which is likely to be later in 2027, so we will contact successful candidates again to commence these processes when the position opens.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Exploring opportunities in the packaging experience across the New Categories space
• Ideate and develop packaging experience concepts with high structural and visual quality
• Creating compelling visualization packaging designs and experiences (renders and animations)
• Build cohesive user experiences across the New Categories packaging ecosystem.

What are we looking for?

• Studying for a qualification in Industrial Design, Product design, Packaging Design, or Visual Design (or a related Design subject).
• Experience of using relevant design tools eg Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Rhino, Keyshot, Figma etc
• A passion for creating products and the consumers that use them;
• Energetic and collaborative attitude and ability to communicate with both specialist and non-specialist audiences.

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
• Meal Voucher/ Canteen as per location
• Private Pension
• Life & Health Insurance
• Yearly bonus based on the ABS
• Family support policy
• Office perks
• Flexible policy as per agreed Second Level agreement.

A bit more about BAT and our undergraduate placement scheme:

We make significant investments in Research and Development to deliver innovations that satisfy or anticipate consumer needs and generate growth for the business. We conduct cutting-edge research to evaluate our Smokeless Products and apply the highest standards for product safety and quality. Successful applicants will be involved in our extensive scientific research program which spans a broad spectrum of scientific fields - including molecular biology, human biology, toxicology, chemistry, biomedical sciences, psychology, neuroscience, sensorial science, data science, computer science, product design, and engineering disciplines.

In the UK, we offer 12-months placement opportunities (starting on 1st September 2027) to undergraduate students looking to gain practical experience within a vibrant and innovative industrial setting. As part of the scheme, you will be partnered with a mentor, have regular reviews with your Line Manager and work on projects that impact the business.

BAT has an established placement programme, with a dedicated Placement Team, which provides training and development throughout the placement. This includes sessions for onboarding, presentation skills, critical thinking, scientific poster presentations and ‘speed networking’ with senior management. Successful applicants are provided with multiple opportunities to develop transferable skills in addition to gaining ‘hands on’ experience in a technical discipline.

As part of the scheme students get a chance to cultivate their independent thinking and problem-solving skills in addition to working in and contributing to a team. Cross functional/department working and participation in other research activities is also encouraged, where appropriate. Previous work experience in a practical ‘hands-on’ role would be useful but not essential.

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.

Collaboration, inclusion and partnership underpin everything we do here at BAT. We are looking forward to enabling every individual to thrive, regardless of 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, veteran status, perspectives and thinking styles. We know that embracing talent from all backgrounds is what makes us stronger and best prepared to meet our business goals.

We see the career breaks as opportunities not obstacles. Through The Global Returners program, we support professionals looking to restart their careers after an extended absence from the workforce (e.g. time out caring for family, parental leave, national service, sabbatical and/or starting an 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.

Apply

If you require any reasonable adjustments or accommodations to help you perform at your best during the recruitment process, you are encouraged to notify us. We are fully committed to support you by making appropriate arrangements for you to demonstrate your full potential.

How to apply

To apply for this role and to find out more, please click on the apply button. Please note that applications may close before the application deadline, so apply early to avoid disappointment.