IFA Innovation Apprentice

International Fertilizer Association (IFA); Paris; Hybrid; EUR 13,392 - 20,088; Full time

Job summary

A prominent international organization is looking for an Innovation Apprentice to join their expanding Innovation Hub in Paris. This apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity to support strategic innovation initiatives and engage with stakeholders globally. The ideal candidate is a Master's level student with excellent communication skills, an organized mindset, and the ability to manage multiple priorities. Responsibilities include coordinating meetings, drafting communications, and conducting research. A hybrid working environment is provided.

Qualifications

• Compulsory: Citizenship of an EU Member State or valid authorization to reside in France.
• Strong attention to detail and proactive attitude.
• Strong interpersonal skills for cross-cultural environments.

Responsibilities

• Support coordination for strategic meetings with IFA members.
• Draft and manage communication materials for projects.
• Conduct research to inform innovation strategies.
• Assist in drafting project proposals and partnership opportunities.
• Compile and track social media and digital communications.

Skills

Strong written and verbal communication in English

Excellent organizational skills

Ability to manage multiple priorities

Experience or coursework in innovation or sustainability

Proficient in Microsoft Office

Familiarity with digital communications tools

Education

Student enrolled in a Master-level business program

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Canva

CRM databases

Webinar platforms

Job description

The International Fertilizer Association (IFA) is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Innovation Apprentice to support the Association’s expanding Innovation Hub activities. This apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity to contribute to strategic innovation initiatives, stakeholder engagement, and communication activities in a global industry context.

Key Responsibilities

The intern will actively support the Innovation Hub and wider IFA team, with a central focus on:

• Lead coordination and invitations for strategic meetings with IFA Members, partners, and external organisations – including Innovation Hub workshops and Cultivate Challenge activities.
• Draft and manage clear, professional communication materials for Innovation Hub project sponsors and partners.
• Support outreach to startups and innovation ecosystem actors to grow engagement in Innovation Hub activities.
• Conduct primary and secondary research (interviews, surveys, desktop research) to inform innovation strategy and thought leadership content, including support to IFA innovation reports.
• Assist in drafting project proposals, partnership opportunities, and other strategic documentation.
• Support innovation content development for webinars, newsletters, and events.

Administration & Communications

• Record and collate meeting notes; prepare clear and accurate draft minutes for relevant meetings.
• Coordinate regional and global webinars: presenter communication, logistics, technical administration, and promotional material.
• Compile draft social media and digital communication assets, and support analytics tracking and reporting.

Qualifications & Skills

• Student enrolled in a Master-level business program at a business school or university
• Strong written and verbal communication in English.
• Excellent organizational skills with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and stakeholders.
• Experience or coursework in innovation, business, sustainability, or a related field preferred.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)
• Familiarity with digital communications tools and platforms (e.g., Canva, CRM databases, LinkedIn, webinar platforms) advantageous.
• Able to quickly build positive working relationships within an international organizational context

Compulsory: Citizenship of an EU Member State, or valid authorization to reside and work in France for the duration of the apprenticeship

Attributes

• Proactive, resourceful, and collaborative mindset.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in cross-cultural environments.
• Interest in innovation ecosystems, sustainability, and global food system solutions.

Duration & Location

• 6- to 12-month apprenticeship
• Preference for a candidate based in Paris or Toulouse
• Based in IFA’s Paris office (hybrid work environment)

Application Submission

[e-mail]

Please submit your CV and cover letter explaining why you are interested in this role by 31 January