Location: Brussels, Belgium
Start Date: as soon as possible
Duration: 6 months (with potential extension up to 12 months)
Compensation: Paid internship (CIP)
About Toy Industries of Europe (TIE)
Toy Industries of Europe (TIE) is the voice of the toy sector in Brussels. We represent some of the world’s most beloved toy brands, alongside hundreds of innovative local manufacturers across the EU. Our small, international team advocates for the industry’s interests with EU institutions, helping to shape policy and ensure a safe, creative, and sustainable future for play.
We are currently looking for a Communications & Policy Intern to support our advocacy, events, and communications efforts. This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience at the heart of EU policymaking while building your skills in strategic communication, event coordination, and stakeholder engagement.
What You’ll Gain
As part of our team, you will:
- Develop your communications expertise in a professional EU environment.
- Learn how a consensus-based trade association operates.
- Gain first-hand exposure to EU decision-making processes.
- Build your professional network in Brussels.
Key Responsibilities
You will support the team with a variety of tasks, including:
Communications & Digital
- Draft engaging content for social media and newsletters.
- Assist with planning and managing editorial calendars (LinkedIn, X/Twitter).
- Design visual assets for digital use (Canva or similar tools).
- Keep TIE’s websites and members’ area up to date
Events & Administration
- Support the organisation of online and in-person meetings and events.
- Assist with logistics and coordination for TIE-led initiatives.
- Maintain and update databases and contact lists.
- Provide general administrative support as needed
Your Profile
- We are looking for someone who is:
- Educated to degree level (Communications, Journalism, International Relations or related fields).
- A strong communicator with excellent written and spoken English (other languages are a plus).
- Skilled in writing for digital platforms and social media.
- Familiar with design and editing tools (e.g. Canva, basic video/photo editing).
- Organised and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple tasks.
- Experienced with WordPress or similar CMS (an advantage).
- Proactive, creative, and eager to learn.
How to Apply
Please send your CV and cover letter in English to TIE’s Director General, Catherine Van Reeth, at catherine.vanreeth@toyindustries.eu by 21 August 2025. Make sure to include “TIE Internship” in the subject line. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The selected candidate is expected to start as soon as possible.
About the role
As Projects & Communications Officer, you will play a key role in delivering TIE’s flagship initiatives – such as the Play for Change Awards – and supporting the team’s wider communications activities. Working closely with the Director General, you will lead and implement projects that highlight the societal value of toys and play, while also helping to communicate the work of the toy industry to EU and international stakeholders.
Key responsibilities
- Project Management: Take the lead on planning, executing, and evaluating TIE’s campaigns and initiatives that promote the value of play. · Communications Support: Assist the Director General with external communications, including press relations, publications, and stakeholder engagement.
- Digital Communications: Maintain and develop TIE’s website and social media channels, ensuring messaging aligns with TIE’s values and supports its reputation.
- Member Services: Keep the member extranet up to date and useful, ensuring timely delivery of relevant materials and information. What we’re looking for We are seeking a proactive, organised, and creative individual who thrives in a collaborative, international environment and brings a can-do attitude.
The ideal candidate will have:
- A passion for toys and the importance of play
- Outstanding English writing, editing, and verbal communication skills (native-level proficiency required)
- Proven experience in project management and event organisation
- Hands-on experience with EU stakeholder engagement and Brussels-based events
- Strong knowledge of social media platforms and digital communication tools
- The ability to build and maintain strong internal and external networks
- A positive, flexible, and team-oriented approach, with the ability to work independently
- A university degree and at least 3 years of relevant professional experience
What we offer
- A diverse, international, and engaging work environment
- The opportunity to help shape the communications strategy of a respected EU-level trade association
- A chance to contribute to a sector that values creativity, responsibility, and fun
- Competitive salary, depending on experience and qualifications
- A motivated and supportive team of 7, based in the heart of the EU quarter in Brussels
How to apply
Please send your CV and a cover letter to our Director General, Catherine Van Reeth, explaining your interest in the position to catherine.vanreeth@toyindustries.eu by 31 August. Please mark clearly in the subject ‘Project & Communications Officer’
About Toy Industries of Europe (TIE)
TIE is the voice of the reputable toy industry in Europe. Founded in 1991, we represent the interests of toy manufacturers to EU policymakers and international stakeholders. Our members are committed to the highest safety standards and to making play a positive, developmental experience for children everywhere.