EU Policy Officer (intern)

About New ERA: 

The New European Reuse Alliance (New ERA) is a non-profit business association representing the interests of pioneering organisations in the reusable packaging sector across Europe. Our mission is to transition from a linear economy to a truly circular packaging system. We advocate for strong EU policies that create the economic framework necessary to unlock the full potential of effective reuse systems.

Representing over sixty businesses and also seven sectoral and national reuse associations, we focus on three core objectives:

• Influence policy: advocate for policies that support competitive reuse and refill packaging systems.
• Strengthen the industry: contribute to the development of the reuse ecosystem with actionable insights, market intelligence, and clear guidelines.
• Foster collaboration: Build a platform for stakeholders to exchange knowledge and promote cross-border networking.

Key words at the heart of our work: Circular Economy, Reuse, Packaging, Public Affairs, Lobbying, and European Union policy.

Job description:

With New ERA’s expanding role in the European arena and the rising focus on the circular economy in the upcoming mandate, we have created a new internship position to support our European advocacy efforts. As an EU Policy Officer Intern, you will play a key role in shaping reusable packaging policies across Europe and contribute to the development of a legislative tool designed to evaluate the regulatory framework with Member States.

Key responsibilities (90%):

• Policy brief & research: Contribute to the development of a robust legal framework for reuse policies at the national level in Member States.
• Policy monitoring & analysis: Track and analyse relevant EU policies, legislation, and regulations, providing insights on how they impact the reusable packaging sector and sustainability efforts.
• Stakeholder engagement: assist in building and maintaining relationships with key EU institutions, Member States, NGOs, industry stakeholders, and other relevant actors.
• Meeting support: Assist with pre-meeting preparation, including crafting concise briefs, gathering background information, and profiling stakeholders to ensure productive discussions.
• Internal communication: Assist in monitoring and managing the tools used for communication with our members.
• Event participation & organisation: Take part in organising and attending relevant events, helping to raise New ERA's visibility and influence in the policy space.

Administrative support (10%):

• Team support: Provide administrative assistance to the team, including organising internal documentation and maintaining consistency across our systems.
• Database & mailing list management: Assist in creating and updating databases and mailing lists to facilitate effective communication and outreach.



As an EU Policy Officer Intern, you will gain hands-on experience in EU policy-making and advocacy, focusing on the circular economy. You will develop skills in policy research, analysis, stakeholder engagement, and legislative processes, while deepening your understanding of EU regulations and environmental sustainability.

Profile:

We are seeking a highly motivated and proactive intern with a strong interest in EU policy, environmental sustainability, and the circular economy. Essential skills include:

• Educational background: Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in political science, law, EU affairs, environmental studies, or a related field.
• Interest in environmental policy: A genuine passion for environmental sustainability, circular economy principles.
• Knowledge of EU institutions: Understanding of the EU policy landscape, legislative processes, and the functioning of EU institutions.
• Strong research & analytical skills: Ability to track, analyse, and synthesise policy developments and regulatory frameworks.
• Excellent communication skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills in English; additional languages such as German are a plus.
• Organizational skills: Detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Team player: Collaborative and proactive, with the ability to engage effectively with team members and external stakeholders.

Personal qualities:

• A curious mindset with the ability to thrive in a dynamic team environment.
• Energetic, meticulous, and excellent interpersonal skills.
• Strong autonomy and a proactive approach to tasks.

Job specifications:

• Full-time, based in Brussels
• The possibility of remote work is available
• Travelling across Europe might be required 
• Contract type: Internship (6 months)
• Remuneration: 1,200 €/month
• Start date: Early 2025

Equal employment opportunity:

We encourage all candidates to apply, as we are committed to offering equal employment opportunities regardless of gender, marital status, nationality, religion, age, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic unrelated to job performance.

To apply: 

If you're ready to embrace this exciting opportunity and have the required skills, please send your CV and cover letter in English (combined into a single PDF document) to info@newreusealliance.eu with the subject line: "EU Policy Officer - First Name, Last Name".