If you are a policy nerd passionate about health at both European and global level, this paid traineeship at Acumen Public Affairs in Brussels could be perfect for you. You will join and strengthen the Healthcare practice, monitoring policy, conducting research, and supporting senior consultants, while building your career in EU health public affairs.
About Acumen
At Acumen, the team has built a culture to meaningfully shape policy and deliver impact that lasts. Acumen prides itself on being the kind of adviser that clients want at their side during their most complex and difficult decisions, offering forward-thinking strategy and steady support. Acumen is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where diverse backgrounds and perspectives are respected and valued, and ensures all qualified applicants are considered regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic origin, nationality, language, religion, disability, age, or socio-economic status.
The Role
Acumen is looking for a Trainee Consultant to join and strengthen its Healthcare practice. The ideal candidate is proactive, solution-oriented, enjoys taking initiative, is eager to go the extra mile, and has excellent attention to detail. The role includes daily monitoring of various legislative and non-legislative issues, conducting research, drafting newsletters and policy briefings, helping organise trainings and workshops, and providing overall support to more senior staff members. The selected candidate will work on a variety of topics and gain client exposure.
Essential Requirements
๐ EU national or work permit holder, as the traineeship is in Brussels, Belgium
๐ฅ A previous traineeship in the health and/or pharmaceutical sectors; candidates without experience in these sectors will not be considered
๐ฃ๏ธ A perfect command of English; additional language skills are an asset
๐๏ธ Strong planning skills
โ๏ธ Advanced research and writing skills, including the ability to summarise issues quickly and accurately
๐ Strong PowerPoint skills, including the ability to translate complex information into clear, visually compelling presentations
๐ค The ability to work in a team while carrying out your own tasks independently and to agreed deadlines
โก Flexibility, enthusiasm, and the ability to work under tight deadlines in an international environment
๐ป Proficiency with IT and new media tools
Desirable
๐๏ธ Previous experience or traineeship in one of the European Institutions, especially in DG SANTE or the Parliament's SANT Committee
๐ฑ A good, demonstrated command of social media, including experience organising social media campaigns
๐ Previous experience in organisations working on global and public health, such as the WHO, GAVI, Global Fund, World Bank, or OECD
What They Offer
๐ถ A six-month paid traineeship
๐ก A fantastic work environment where new ideas and approaches are welcome
๐ Training opportunities on the job, as well as dedicated trainings with experienced industry experts
๐งญ Continuous feedback and mentorship from your manager and team members
๐ Opportunities to broaden your network, expand your expertise, and fast-track your career
The Details
๐ Location: Brussels, Belgium
๐ Start date: September 2026
โณ Duration: 6 months
How to Apply
Send your resume (saved as firstname_surname_CV) and cover letter (saved as firstname_surname_CL) in PDF format to recruitment@acumenpa.com, with the subject line "Health trainee application". Applications without either document will not be considered.
๐ Apply by email: recruitment@acumenpa.com
Deadline
31 July 2026
Links
๐ Vacancy and how to apply: https://acumenpa.com/careers/health-public-affairs-trainee-consultant/