The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) is recruiting two Junior Policy Advisors to support its upcoming co-Presidency of the Practitioners’ Network for European Development Cooperation (PN). Based in Brussels, these full-time positions offer an opportunity to work at the centre of European development policy, engaging with EU institutions, Member State agencies, and a broad network of international partners. The roles are expected to begin in February 2026, ahead of the co-Presidency period starting in late May.
About the Role
GIZ will share the PN co-Presidency with CzechAid for a 12-month term. The Junior Policy Advisors will play a pivotal role in the strategic coordination, agenda-setting, and operational leadership of the co-Presidency. Working within the GIZ Representation in Brussels, the selected candidates will engage with senior management, PN members, and the PN Coordination team to support the Network’s governance and strategic direction.
These roles involve working in a highly political, multi-stakeholder environment and require the ability to manage complex processes, analyse institutional priorities, and communicate effectively across diverse European actors.
Key Responsibilities
The Junior Policy Advisors will contribute to the coordination, planning, and implementation of all activities linked to the PN co-Presidency. Core responsibilities include:
Strategic and Operational Coordination
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Supporting the PN Focal Points in implementing the co-Presidency agenda, including major thematic priorities such as financial and technical cooperation, joint implementation practices, and the operationalisation of the Network.
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Contributing to the definition and monitoring of the PN’s strategic priorities in coordination with co-Presidents, network members, and PN Coordination.
Governance and Network Engagement
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Participating in governance bodies, working groups, task forces, and high-level meetings.
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Supporting the co-Presidency in decision-making spaces and technical fora.
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Helping to develop partnerships with prospective PN members and external partners.
Policy Development and Analysis
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Drafting strategic notes, concept papers, and analytical inputs to inform senior management decisions.
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Identifying political and institutional opportunities and risks, and formulating relevant recommendations.
Events, Communication, and Visibility
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Assisting in organising major events such as international missions, General Assembly sessions, and joint meetings.
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Contributing to internal and external communication, including visibility activities across the PN and GIZ networks.
Internal Coordination
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Supporting alignment between the GIZ Representation in Brussels, GIZ Headquarters, and other relevant teams involved in the co-Presidency.
Candidate Profile
Essential Qualifications
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A Master’s degree in European Affairs, Political Science, International Relations, International Cooperation, or a related field.
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At least one year of professional experience in development or international cooperation, ideally within EU-focused institutional environments.
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One year of experience in project management, event organisation, or communication.
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Strong understanding of European cooperation, EU external action policies, and the German international cooperation system.
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Professional experience in Brussels linked to EU external action.
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Excellent written and spoken English; good command of German.
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A valid work permit for Belgium.
Core Competencies
Candidates should demonstrate excellent teamwork, coordination, analytical thinking, and communication skills. Strong political judgement, diplomatic ability, and the capacity to synthesise complex policy content are essential. Flexibility, autonomy, problem-solving skills, and a proactive approach to responsibilities are also key.
Additional Assets
Experience with the Practitioners’ Network or with GIZ is an advantage, as is proficiency in additional EU languages.
What GIZ Offers
The position is based in Brussels’ European Quarter under a 30-month contract. The compensation package includes a competitive salary determined by experience, five additional holidays per year, lunch vouchers, complementary hospitalisation insurance, transport subsidies, and a home-office policy.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit an updated CV and a one-page cover letter explaining their motivation, salary expectations, and availability. Only complete applications that meet all requirements will be considered.
Application can be accessed from here.
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