At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with media, government, and patient groups on key healthcare issues.
- Company: Join Pfizer, a leading biopharmaceutical company dedicated to transforming lives.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, develop skills, and network with industry leaders.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in healthcare while enhancing your policy and communications expertise.
- Qualifications: Must be completing a degree placement; strong communication and project management skills required.
- Other info: Start your journey on 1st September 2026 for a year-long placement.
The predicted salary is between 11 - 16 £ per hour.
Pfizer UK Undergraduate Programme 2026/2027
International Policy and Communications January 2026
Who can apply?
Applicants must be completing a placement as part of a degree course at a UK University, either through Year in Industry/Industrial Placement or Gap Year. Please note that we will only consider candidates who have applied by completing the Pfizer Placement Application Form. Candidates who do not complete and attach the application form will NOT be considered.
Department Overview
International Policy and Communications manages the external face of Pfizer and is accountable for external engagement with key (non-medical) stakeholders such as the media, the government and patient groups. Our interactions with these stakeholders and our wider initiatives play a role in shaping our reputation and influencing the healthcare, policy and commercial environment in which we operate.
The UK Policy and Communications team consists of a Head of International Policy and Communications, UK, x2 Senior Manager, Policy & Public Affairs and x2 Senior Manager, External & Internal Communications. The team develops and implements high value strategic policy and communications programmes to sponsor Pfizer's business priorities at Corporate, Business Unit and brand levels.
Specifically, External and Internal Communications colleagues are accountable for some of the day-to-day processes and platforms that join Pfizer with its UK audiences and stakeholders. For example, the team delivers a 24/7 press office process, dealing with journalist enquiries, as well as proactively identifying opportunities to communicate about Pfizer's corporate and therapy area initiatives. The team is accountable for Pfizer UK's corporate website and social media channels. The team also supports on certain internal communications to Pfizer colleagues, working closely with the UK Colleague Engagement lead.
Policy & Public Affairs colleagues are accountable for developing Pfizer UK's relationship with UK Government and senior NHS stakeholders, and working with cross-industry stakeholders to develop healthcare and business policies which positively benefit the UK health environment, Pfizer and patients. The team also manages relationships with patient organisations related to our priority therapy areas.
Through these activities we increase awareness and appreciation of Pfizer and our audiences, gain a compelling comprehension of our role in healthcare as an innovative biopharmaceutical company that discovers, develops and provides breakthroughs that change patients' lives.
What can I achieve and what will I be accountable for whilst completing a placement at Pfizer?
Working in the UK Policy and Communications team gives you a fantastic opportunity to experience engagement with the public, media, patient organisations and representatives across UK Government on key healthcare issues and activities. The role will allow you to develop a wide range of skills and improve your knowledge of policy and communications as well as the pharmaceutical industry. You will have the opportunity to promote and lead on a number of key activities and initiatives and will have responsibility for a number of key functions within the department, including:
- Supporting the development of messaging and materials for news media, social media and other digital channels including writing, editing, management of channels and the use of internal approval systems
- Monitoring our social media and press office platforms to drive timely, appropriate action by the wider team and business as required
- Supporting with the development of stakeholder mapping exercises and communications to relevant policy and patient stakeholders
- Involvement in development of internal communications and in person colleague events
- Providing timely and relevant updates to UK, regional and global colleagues on key activities
- Coordinating and developing regular updates to senior leaders in the UK and global business
- Assisting with the preparation of presentations
What other opportunities and benefits does Pfizer offer?
Beyond the day to day role, you will also have the opportunity to:
- Attend meetings with leaders across the organisation to discuss business unit specific strategy, projects, plans and associated activities
- Partner with colleagues in the wider global International Policy and Communications team
- Work closely with industry-leading external agencies
- Build your own peer network of undergraduate colleagues in many other functions and participate in company-wide activities including volunteering and diversity and inclusion activities associated with our Colleague Resource Groups (CRGs) which educate, advocate and represent on behalf of our Pfizer colleague community in all its diversity.
When can I start?
Placements will start on 1st September 2026 and will run for 12 months.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Type of person we are looking for, in relation to Skills, Knowledge and Motivation:
- Completing placement as part of University Degree either through Year In Industry/Industrial Placement or gap year
- Good written and verbal communication skills
- Excellent project management skills, including planning and prioritisation of multiple tasks
- Familiar with social media principles and systems; IT literacy (Word, Powerpoint, Excel, Outlook)
- Good on details, with a patient and methodical approach in our highly regulated sector
- Ability to work on own initiative or with others on tasks with and without supervision
- Ability to deal with people at all levels
- Interest in media, social media and policy landscape
- Able to use logical and creative thinking to solve problems and make decisions
- Creative and flexible, with a willingness to learn new things and be agile/adaptable in approach
This position will close for applications on 8th February 2026. Please note that we only accept application forms. Please do not send over your CV or cover letter as they will not be considered.
UK Policy and Communications Undergraduate in Aberdeen employer: Pfizer
Contact Detail:
Pfizer Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land UK Policy and Communications Undergraduate in Aberdeen
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research Pfizer's recent projects, values, and their approach to policy and communications. This will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in what they do.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former interns on LinkedIn, join relevant groups, and attend industry events. Building relationships can give you insider info and even lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to talk about your skills and experiences that align with the role. Keep it concise and engaging, so you leave a lasting impression during interviews or networking chats.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! Make sure you complete the Pfizer Placement Application Form as instructed. It’s your ticket to being considered, so double-check everything before hitting submit!
We think you need these skills to ace UK Policy and Communications Undergraduate in Aberdeen
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get the Application Form Right: First things first, make sure you download and fill out the Pfizer Placement Application Form. We can’t stress this enough – if you don’t submit this form, your application won’t even be considered. So, grab it from the website and get cracking!
Show Off Your Communication Skills: Since this role is all about policy and communications, let your writing skills shine! Use clear, concise language and make sure to tailor your responses to highlight your understanding of the media and policy landscape. We want to see your personality come through!
Be Detail-Oriented: Pay attention to the details in your application. This isn’t just about what you say, but how you say it. Double-check for any typos or errors, and ensure that your application reflects a patient and methodical approach. It’s all about making a great first impression!
Submit Before the Deadline: Don’t leave it until the last minute! The application closes on 8th February 2026, so make sure you submit your form well before then. We’re excited to see your application, so don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pfizer
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Pfizer's mission and values. Understand their role in the healthcare landscape and be ready to discuss how your skills align with their goals, especially in policy and communications.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since this role is all about communication, prepare examples that highlight your written and verbal skills. Think of times when you successfully conveyed complex information or engaged with diverse audiences.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and adaptability. Prepare scenarios where you had to think creatively or manage multiple tasks, showcasing your project management skills.
✨Engage with Current Affairs
Stay updated on current healthcare policies and media trends. Being able to discuss recent developments will demonstrate your genuine interest in the field and show that you're proactive about learning.