Intern – Department for International Trade at a High Commission

The British Government is an inclusive and diversity-friendly employer.  We value difference, promote equality and challenge discrimination, enhancing our organisational capability. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status or other category protected by law. We promote family-friendly flexible working opportunities, where operational and security needs allow.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Intern – Department for International Trade
Location: Lagos
Grade: Department for Business and Trade roles (DBT)
Region: Africa
Start Date: 3rd March, 2025.

Main purpose of job

  • The Department for Business and Trade is the UK Government’s department that helps UK-based companies succeed in Nigeria and other international markets. We are seeking a highly organised person with strong research skills, attention to detail, a strong work ethic and the ability to take initiative.  
  • The intern will need to work accurately within deadlines and be a committed and collaborative team member.
    The primary role of this position is to offer commercial and administrative support to the DBT Trade Officers based at the British Deputy High Commission in Lagos across priority sectors. This role will operate under and report directly to the DBT Country and Deputy Country Directors.
  • The successful candidate will collaborate with UK exporters and investors across priority sectors, aiming to increase bilateral trade and investment between the UK and Nigeria. The successful candidate will support and develop relationships with British and Nigerian companies and deliver an impactful programme of activities focussed on highlighting the UK’s expertise in several priority sectors. The successful candidate is also expected to carry out research and to provide support for both in-person and virtual events.

Roles and responsibilities
We are looking for a candidate with a keen interest in the DBT priority sectors in Nigeria, who is looking to learn and develop capacity in these sectors. Experience in research and analytical skills is crucial.  Key elements of the role include:

  • Data research and analysis of topical issues/leads across identified sectors for effective follow up by sector leads
  • Building a strong pipeline of potential stakeholders for DBT Nigeria events
  • Support the DBT Africa events team in delivering high value campaign across sectors to support UK companies in bidding for and winning multi-million-pound commercial deals.
  • Contribute to the corporate objectives of the Deputy High Commission (5%)
  • Deliver work in line with the high Commission. Deputy High Commission Values (Honesty, Professionalism, Inclusion & Respect)
  • Under the supervision of the Country and Deputy Country Director; identifying and delivering a pipeline of commercial opportunities in Nigeria for UK companies in consultation with the relevant teams and specialists in the UK’s Department for International Trade.

Essential Qualifications, Skills and Experience

  • Must be enrolled in an undergraduate programme or recently graduated (e.g. International Relations, Economics, Administration, International Business, Engineering on relevant field, etc.).
  • Ability to work effectively, independently and deliver results. 
  • Interest in creating and nourishing interpersonal relationships with stakeholders and team members.
  • High-level of competence in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
  • 1 – 2 years of relevant experience in an administrative, business or support role.
  • Proactive team player with strong inter-personal communication skills, attention to detail, and a strong desire to learn.

Language Requirements:

  • Language: English
  • Level of language required: Proficient.

Desirable Qualifications, Skills and Experience:

  • Business/Sales Experience 
  • Experience or knowledge of database management and market research.
  • Experience or knowledge in customer service. 
  • Innovative, curious mindset keen to take on that’s up for taking on new challenges.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply

Application Deadline  29th January, 2025.

Editor