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

๐Ÿ›‚ EU national or work permit holder, as the traineeship is in Brussels, Belgium

๐Ÿฅ A previous traineeship in the health and/or pharmaceutical sectors; candidates without experience in these sectors will not be considered

๐Ÿ—ฃ๏ธ A perfect command of English; additional language skills are an asset

๐Ÿ—‚๏ธ Strong planning skills

โœ๏ธ Advanced research and writing skills, including the ability to summarise issues quickly and accurately

๐Ÿ“Š Strong PowerPoint skills, including the ability to translate complex information into clear, visually compelling presentations

๐Ÿค The ability to work in a team while carrying out your own tasks independently and to agreed deadlines

โšก Flexibility, enthusiasm, and the ability to work under tight deadlines in an international environment

๐Ÿ’ป Proficiency with IT and new media tools

Desirable

๐Ÿ›๏ธ Previous experience or traineeship in one of the European Institutions, especially in DG SANTE or the Parliament's SANT Committee

๐Ÿ“ฑ A good, demonstrated command of social media, including experience organising social media campaigns

๐ŸŒ Previous experience in organisations working on global and public health, such as the WHO, GAVI, Global Fund, World Bank, or OECD

What They Offer

๐Ÿ’ถ A six-month paid traineeship

๐Ÿ’ก A fantastic work environment where new ideas and approaches are welcome

๐ŸŽ“ Training opportunities on the job, as well as dedicated trainings with experienced industry experts

๐Ÿงญ Continuous feedback and mentorship from your manager and team members

๐Ÿš€ Opportunities to broaden your network, expand your expertise, and fast-track your career

The Details

๐Ÿ“ Location: Brussels, Belgium

๐Ÿš€ Start date: September 2026

โณ 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.

๐Ÿ‘‰ Apply by email: recruitment@acumenpa.com

Deadline

31 July 2026

Links

๐Ÿ”— Vacancy and how to apply: https://acumenpa.com/careers/health-public-affairs-trainee-consultant/