Government Affairs Assistant (Traineeship)
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Duration: 6 months (starting around September/October 2025)
CISPE is the trade association for cloud infrastructure providers in Europe, working for the benefit of both cloud vendors and users. Our work includes traditional policy and public affairs activities, as well as the development of practical tools, frameworks, codes of conduct, and guides that help implement EU policy and support industry compliance. CISPE is governed by an exclusively European board that enshrines the power of SMEs.
Responsibilities:
- Coordinate outreach to policymakers to support Managers and Directors working on government affairs and public policy.
- Assist in conducting stakeholder mapping and engagement activities, including organising and participating in meetings, workshops, and events.
- Conduct research and draft briefings and analysis on digital and sustainability policy issues within the European Union.
- Monitor and assess policy developments, legislative proposals, and regulatory frameworks in areas such as digital (e.g. data protection and data sharing, digital infrastructure, fair competition, cybersecurity) and sustainability (e.g. energy efficiency, water resilience).
- Support the development and implementation of our projects, including preparing monitoring reports, policy briefs, presentations, etc.
- Contribute to the creation and maintenance of knowledge resources.
- Actively participate with ideas and contribute creatively to project deliverables.
Job Requirements:
- Highly motivated, proactive, and able to work both independently and collaboratively in a team.
- Educational background in policy, government affairs, EU affairs, law, etc. (Master’s degree is a plus).
- Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to synthesise complex information into clear and concise reports.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and ideally another EU language (especially German).
- Strong knowledge of EU policy and regulatory frameworks, with understanding of digital technologies and sustainability topics.
- Demonstrated interest in technology, digital infrastructure, and green technologies.
- Understanding of the benefits of AI for daily tasks and briefings.
Must have:
- Positive mindset, and willingness to work well with others.
- Curiosity and willingness to gain hands-on experience in advocacy activities.
Benefits:
- Gain hands-on experience in EU policy and some of the most exciting files for the digital industry, focusing on digital and sustainability topics.
- Work closely with industry experts, policymakers, and stakeholders in a stimulating and supportive environment.
- Expand your professional network within the EU ‘bubble’.
- Contribute to shaping policy recommendations and strategies for members at the forefront of digital and sustainability initiatives.
- Receive a competitive stipend to support your living expenses during the traineeship.
- Possibility for growth within the organisation at the end of the traineeship.
Application Process:
Application deadline: 25 August 2025 (COB)
Application recipient: info@cispe.cloud with “GA Assistant” in the subject line of your email
Please include:
- A CV (maximum 2 pages) highlighting your relevant educational background, work experience, and skills;
- A cover letter (maximum 1 page) outlining your motivation, your understanding of CISPE priorities, and how you meet the requirements of the position.
Selected candidates will be contacted for interviews with Directors and Managers, followed by a short exercise (stakeholder mapping, preparatory briefing) and a confirmatory discussion with our Secretary General.