Thinking about a Regulatory Affairs role with BD?!

Tom Healy is the Senior Regulatory Affairs Specialist here in BD. BD is a leading global medical technology company focused on advancing the world of health by improving medical discovery, diagnostics, and the delivery of care. In recent years BD opened a new research and development (R&D) Centre of Excellence and Innovation in Limerick, BD’s Research Centre Ireland (RCI).

This new R&D Centre, located in Plassey, Limerick, houses more than 200 high-tech positions. BD RCI’s focus is on product and software development, clinical research instrumentation and prototype development.                    

I spoke with Tom who is part of the Medication management solutions which works on our medical infusion platforms which include hardware, software and supporting technology to support our worldwide operations.

How long have you worked there?

I have just celebrated one year with RCI this month, August 2020.

What attracted you to working there?

I was working in Class III devices at the time. When the BD recruiter made contact initially the role description jumped out at me as a good fit for my previous experience with R&D and electromechanics devices, software, accessories etc. The early stages of the process went very well as the recruiter and those I would report to were very available and happy to talk through the expectations of the role. Each conversation added to my comfort level and moved me towards the role. I knew I was going to be the first regulatory affairs role on the site and would be supported by my management and colleagues.

Tell us about your average day?

My day can be a mix of cross-functional meetings, one on one discussions, document reviews or document preparations. The cross functional meetings tend to be a collaborative approach in which people are coming together to find a solution or discuss the pathway for the product or process under review. Attendees can be from any of the functions supporting R&D including Regulatory Affairs, Project Management, Quality, Medical Affairs / Clinical, Market (QMS) and a host of other SME’s depending on what we are working on. I also perform routine checks on regulations to update the platform managers on new or changing standards and guidance to ensure we are always on the right path. The positive part of supporting the business and the R&D group is that I am involved in a variety of discussions across the product platforms dealing with product sustainability as well as the NPI side which makes each day interesting. 

What do you enjoy?

The teams involve in the R&D efforts are a good bunch. People are solution focused and interested in doing the right thing the right way.

What are the challenges?

As with every role there are challenges. Time will be given to understand the role and activities but you will may have to work across multiple platforms, their differing portfolios (e.g. the pumps and their varying use profiles as well as the family of accessories) and multiple registration markets. Teams are across different sites and time zones and I had to allow for that.  

What is the work culture like?

Excellent. People have, and in fairness are expected to have, their own contributions to make and space is given to do that. From day one I found the culture positive, welcoming, and open to all contributions. It was very easy to establish connections with other colleagues. This is more important than ever now with the current controls imposed for COVID-19 and the need to stay connected.

What advice would you give to somebody interested in working there?

Give the time early on to ask your questions and understand what is on offer. From my perspective, one year on, the role continues to be what was presented to me and how I would be part of RCI. 

Is there something unique or interesting about your company that you’d like to share with jobseekers (perks, benefits, training, social clubs etc)  

The overall benefits package that was offered was excellent and was certainly not a roadblock to joining BD. There is a healthy sports and social club with events during the year. Our HR colleagues and management were eager to ensure everyone feels part of a team and encourage the social aspects as well as getting the work done. There is a positive attitude to supporting further education as well.

Looking to join our team! Click the link to apply or join our talent community 

https://emea.jobs.bd.com/job/limerick/regulatory-affairs-specialist/28892/15180017