Who are we?

The British Embassy in Berne is part of a world-wide network representing British political, economic and consular interests. We are now recruiting a Corporate Services Intern to join us for a 6-month period, with the possibility to extend up to 11 months (subject to business needs and performance).

Main purpose of the job:

The Corporate Services Intern at the British Embassy in Berne provides hands-on support to the Corporate Services Team and gains practical experience in the day-to-day operations of a diplomatic mission. The role supports internal operations including HR administration, finance and purchasing support, basic procurement-to-pay processes, logistics for arrivals and departures, inventory management, and coordination of diplomatic mail and courier services.

This internship is designed as a learning opportunity in a fast-paced environment, supporting the delivery of a high-quality corporate service to colleagues across the Embassy.

Roles and responsibilities:

• Support the Corporate Services Team as a first point of contact for routine HR/admin queries; log and redirect requests; signpost to guidance and escalate where needed;
• Information management for Corporate Services work, including internal management systems and online guidance, sharing and maintaining information on local SharePoint pages;
• Stock management of IT/facilities items; support periodic stock checks and flag discrepancies; provide first line IT support where relevant;
• Assist with local payments and purchases by compiling documentation, preparing draft requests, and filing invoices/supporting documents;
• Support basic budget administration by updating trackers and helping compile routine inputs for reconciliation/cash reporting under supervision;
• Assist with monthly payroll preparation by collating inputs and maintaining checklists (final review and submission remains with substantive staff);
• Support contract/supplier administration by maintaining registers, tracking renewal dates, collating quotes and preparing simple summaries;
• Undertake other reasonable duties as required in line with the FCDO’s agile workforce approach.
  

Essential on arrival:

• Full professional proficiency in English (written and spoken, minimum of C1 level for CEFR*);
• Good IT skills (e.g. SharePoint, Microsoft Office components and AI tools) and willingness to learn new systems quickly;
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail; ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines;
• Professional communication skills and a helpful, customer-focused approach;
• Ability to handle information sensitively and maintain confidentiality;
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently with appropriate supervision.