Trade Strategy, Value Chain and Export Governance – Intern

The intern will support the design of national, provincial and sector trade strategies, conduct research and analysis of export governance systems and value-chain development, and assist in preparing technical reports and strategy materials. This internship offers insight into export development issues and strategic responses within the International Trade Centre.

Responsibilities

• Conduct desk-based research and analysis on emerging issues affecting export development, competitiveness and market opportunities at country, provincial and sector levels, and provide recommendations for strengthening export performance.
• Conduct research and analysis of sectoral value chains, including value-chain mapping, identification of key actors, bottlenecks, opportunities, cross-sector functions and areas for upgrading and competitiveness improvement.
• Support the review of value-chain governance systems and mechanisms, including institutional arrangements, stakeholder roles, coordination structures, regulatory frameworks and mechanisms for stakeholder engagement, validation and periodic value-chain review.
• Assist in reviewing and synthesizing existing value-chain studies, sector assessments and related analytical documents to identify evidence, gaps and priorities for export strategy development.
• Contribute to the preparation of presentations, consultation materials and communication products, including PowerPoint presentations, news articles, social media content and infographics, to support country-level consultations and strategy initiatives.
• Undertake other related research, analytical and coordination activities as required in support of ITC’s trade and export strategy development interventions.

Requirements

• Be enrolled in the final academic year of the first university degree programme (minimum Bachelor’s level or equivalent) in international studies, business administration, international development, international law and/or economics with experience of conducting research assignments; OR be enrolled in a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); OR have graduated with a university degree (as defined above) and, if selected, must commence the internship within one year of graduation.
• Knowledge of, and interest in, international trade policy and relations, business development issues and export development in developing countries.
• Knowledge of market access issues and basic trade statistics will be considered an asset.
• Experience in analysing and organising research results into structured and referenced reports.
• Ability to work independently, with minimal guidance and support, to reach defined objectives.
• Be competent using standard Microsoft office and research tools.
• Good knowledge of Excel and graphic software will be considered important assets.
• Advanced knowledge of English is required.
• Working knowledge of French is desirable.

Skills

• International Trade Policy
• Export Development
• Trade Strategy Design
• Value Chain Analysis
• Export Governance Analysis
• Research Analysis
• Report Writing
• Microsoft Office Suite
• Excel
• Graphic Software
• Trade Statistics Knowledge
• Business Development
• Market Access

Languages

English, French