Corporate Affairs Associate

Describe your role and what it entails.

My work in the Corporate Affairs team is very varied. We are responsible for all internal and external communications in the UK & Ireland at Amgen. This involves designing and writing email communications, filming and editing videos, writing articles, and coordinating the review process for press materials. I’m also responsible for editing the corporate website and conduct daily media monitoring.

What have been your highlights?

I was quite heavily involved in ensuring that press materials for a major drug release were ready and fully approved ahead of its MHRA authorisation. Seeing the announcement go live and the huge response within media was pretty cool.

I also recently went to the University of Cambridge to film and interview some students who were being supported by Amgen’s philanthropic arm, the Amgen Foundation. These Colleges are often very secretive and so having exclusive access to the grounds was exciting. I also really enjoy the creative process of editing the videos after filming.

What have been your challenges?

Going into the role, I knew next to nothing about biotechnology. My role isn’t hugely reliant on this knowledge, but I made sure to learn as much as I could about the basics of biotechnology before starting my placement.

Another recent challenge is that we are in a transitional period in my team, which means I am now taking on much more responsibility. However, I find it motivating that my colleagues trust me to do a good job, and it’s always good to keep busy.

What have you learnt from your experience in the role?

I’ve learned a lot about the biotechnology industry, how biologic drugs are made, and the extensive approval process that comes with it. It was also interesting to learn just how strict the rules are in the UK around promoting products in this industry. I feel that I have a niche skillset having done a placement here that makes me very desirable to employers in the biotech industry. There are certain processes we do, such as adding job codes to materials that need to be reviewed by experts in the field prior to sharing, which are generally unique to this sector.

What advice would you give to a student following in your footsteps?

I would say to keep applying for placements or whatever you’re looking for. Accept that rejections are part of the process. Always seek feedback from rejections after an interview if possible.

There are some really good websites that will review your cv for free which I found really helpful too.

When you do secure a position, never feel like your opinions are less valued because of your level of experience, so don’t be afraid to speak up if you have a good idea to share.