EU Law Trainee — EU Competition, Trade & Public Affairs

• Location: Brussels (Belgium)
• Practice Group: EU Competition / Trade / Public Affairs
• Contract Type: Traineeship (6 months)
• Start Date: September 2026

We are looking for a motivated and intellectually curious EU Law Trainee to join our Brussels-based EU Competition, Trade & Public Affairs team for a period of six months, starting in September 2026. This is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in EU trade defense, competition law, and public affairs in a dynamic international law firm environment.

Working alongside experienced lawyers and public affairs advisers, you will be involved in substantive public affairs and legal work from day one and will have the opportunity to develop your skills across a broad range of EU law matters.

• Conducting legal research and preparing memoranda on EU competition law, trade defense instruments (anti-dumping, anti-subsidy, etc.), and trade policy developments
• Monitoring and analyzing EU legislative and regulatory developments relevant to clients' industries and interests
• Drafting and reviewing legal and public affairs policy documents, briefings, and client updates
• Assisting in the preparation of advocacy strategies and stakeholder engagement materials
• Attending meetings with clients, EU institutions, and trade associations
• Contributing to business development activities, including the preparation of pitches and legal publications

Essential:

• LLM in EU Law (or equivalent postgraduate qualification) from a recognized university, completed or expected to be completed prior to the start date
• Fluency in English (written and spoken) to a professional standard; additional EU languages are an asset
• Strong interest in analyzing EU legislative and regulatory developments
• Strong interest in EU policy in general and trade defense law and policy in particular
• Excellent research and analytical skills
• Strong drafting and writing abilities
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, international team environment
• Attention to detail and a proactive, can-do attitude

Desirable:

• Prior academic or professional exposure to EU trade defense instruments (anti-dumping, anti-subsidy, etc.)
• Knowledge of basic principles of EU legislative and specific regulatory developments
• Familiarity with EU institutions and legislative procedures
• Proficiency in French or other EU languages

• Hands-on experience in a leading international law firm's Brussels practice
• Exposure to high-profile EU competition, trade, and regulatory matters
• Mentoring and guidance from senior lawyers and public affairs professionals
• Networking opportunities within EU institutions and industry stakeholders
• A collaborative and international working environment
• Competitive trainee remuneration

Please submit your CV, academic transcripts and cover letter explaining your motivation and relevant experience via the 'Apply' button by the 17th of July.

Bird & Bird is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds.