Location: Brussels, Belgium
Type of contract: Traineeship– (6 months)
Availability: As soon as possible
Deadline to apply: 15th April 2026
ABOUT C&V DEFENCE
C&V Defence is a fast-growing Brussels-based SME specialising exclusively in EU and NATO defence industrial affairs. Our team provides strategic support to companies developing responsible, sustainable innovation projects and strategies for the EU and NATO defence markets. Our work also extends to a range of European R&D projects, including a noteworthy involvement in the European Defence Fund (EDF), where we have become the most represented Belgian SME.
WHAT WE LOOK FOR
We operate in a demanding, results-oriented environment, where flexibility and responsiveness are essential to meet our clients’ expectations. We value performance and efficiency. We are looking for self-starters who can adapt quickly to complex scenarios in a structured but constantly evolving environment. With this in mind, we are recruiting a trainee to undertake the role of “Project Support” assisting our Head of EU Affairs.
The trainee will be working in the EU Affairs department with a focus on Defence Policy, including ongoing programmes and monitoring future opportunities for our clients.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Support the Head of EU Affairs in monitoring the developments of EU Defence Policy.
- Identification of legislative barriers or opportunities for our clients and projects.
- Attendance and reporting of events and discussions.
- Support the organisation and reporting of workshops and high-level events.
- Contribute to the prospective actions of the company, identifying new opportunities.
- Supporting clients in their strategic development in the EU/NATO defence markets by conducting policy analysis and economic intelligence gathering.
- Continuous reporting and following of internal working methodologies.
EDUCATION AND SKILLS REQUIRED
- Master´s degree in Political Science, European Studies or similar.
- Strong understanding of the EU institutions and decision-making process.
- Strong organisational skills
- Good knowledge of the defence industry ecosystem and dynamics
- Good knowledge of the standard MS package, mainly MS Word, Excel and PPT
- Excellent level of English (C1) is mandatory, and knowledge of other EU languages is a plus.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
SKILLS DESIRED
- Previous experience in an EU institution or national authority
- Capacity to work autonomously
- Strong knowledge of the defence Industry stakeholders
- Experience in working with clients as a consultant or advisor
- Experience representing the company in high-level events and workshops
- Result-oriented, being able to identify priorities
SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS:
- EU Nationality
- Availability to travel and to work abroad
WHAT WE OFFER
- Teleworking up to 2 days/week (subject to conditions).
- A dynamic young company environment.
- Opportunities for rapid development, with the possibility of a permanent contract.
- Specific trainings tied to position requirements.
- A flexible structure, focused on performance and optimising skills.
- Opportunity to work in a fast-growing sector.
HOW TO APPLY
If you’re interested, apply now! Send your CV and Cover Letter to with the subject ‘Project Support – (EU Affairs)’ to Mrs. Christine Helin c.helin@cnv-defence.eu no later than the 15th of April.