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Ever wonder how products are regulated to ensure their safety? The Smallpeice Trust recently caught up with Ruvimbo Chitera, a Senior Regulatory Associate at a fast-moving consumer goods company, to learn more about her fascinating path into the world of STEM and her pivotal role in ensuring the safety and compliance of our everyday products.   

Can you tell us about your role at and how you ended up working for the company?   

As a Senior Regulatory Associate, I ensure our products comply with EU Biocidal Products Regulations. My path to regulatory affairs began after graduating from university with my Chemistry degree. I secured a job as a Chemist, where I was introduced to regulatory requirements for antibacterial solutions. From there, I transitioned into a Global Regulatory Associate role, where I helped launch products such as hand sanitisers for businesses, including gyms and supermarkets.   

Can you share a typical day in your life with us?  

I start my day early, arriving in the office and checking emails. With the company based in America and the UK, I often receive emails after working hours. After addressing urgent matters, I typically prepare for morning meetings with my EU colleagues. Between meetings, I focus on tasks such as product registration, which includes registering new products, renewing existing, or applying for new trade names for launch.   

In the afternoon, I start working alongside my colleagues in America, like my morning routine. No two days are ever the same. Some days may include pre-submission meetings or travelling for work events.   

What is your favourite part of your role and why?   

My favourite part of the role is working with a variety of people. I love interacting with different departments throughout the entire process. The variety keeps my work interesting and allows me to learn from others.   

What are the top 3 skills that you need in your job?  

• Effective communication: Communication is so important! Clear communication will ensure challenges are rectified as soon as possible.   

• Industry knowledge and curiosity: Understanding regulatory frameworks and being curious about them is vital, as regulations are constantly changing! This ensures all our products are compliant.   
• Teamwork: Working effectively with different departments helps ensure all requirements are met throughout the process.  

Have you faced any setbacks during your career? How have you overcome these?    

One of the setbacks I have faced during my career is being an introvert. I am still working on this by pushing myself outside my comfort zone. I have started attending work events alone and made a conscious effort to network with other industry colleagues. Through initiating conversations and learning how they work to solve problems, I have gained valuable insights into the industry and become more confident in social settings!   

What are your top tips for a young female interested in a career within regulation affairs?   

My top tips for young females are to ask questions. Don't be afraid to ask questions and step out of your comfort zone. Asking questions is crucial for learning and growth, plus it shows willingness to understand and improve. Stepping out of my comfort zone has led to new opportunities and experiences that have helped me develop personally and professionally.