Traineeship – Compliance and Data Protection
European Stability MechanismDeadline for application: 21 April 2026. We are looking for a trainee to support the work of the Compliance and Data Protection Office (CDPO). You will report to the Team Lead, Compliance and Data Protection and work in the CDPO, contributing to a broad range of compliance and data protection activities across the institution.
PURPOSE OF THE TRAINEESHIP
Support the day-to-day activities of the CDPO
Assist in the preparation of documentation, templates, checklists and guidance material
Contribute to research, benchmarking and policy development in areas such as data protection, ethics, AML/CFT, sanctions, bribery and corruption
Support internal monitoring, testing and reporting activities
Assist with awareness-raising activities, internal communications and training materials
Support ongoing projects and initiatives related to compliance and data protection
KEY BACKGROUND & EXPERIENCE
A candidate for, or recent graduate (within one year of graduation) of, a bachelor’s or master’s degree in law, data protection, compliance, risk management, audit or a related field
Demonstrated interest in ethics, compliance and personal data protection topics, preferably in an institutional, regulatory or financial context
Basic understanding of data protection and compliance concepts (e.g. personal data protection, ethics and integrity, conflicts of interest, AML/CFT, sanctions), with a strong willingness to further develop practical expertise in the field
Interest in risk identification, monitoring and mitigation, including exposure to policies, procedures and internal control frameworks
Ability to support the drafting and review of documentation, guidance material and internal policies under supervision
Good IT literacy, with proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and interest in AI
Fluency in English, both oral and written
KEY COMPETENCIES
Strong analytical and research skills, with attention to detail
Ability to organise information and manage multiple tasks in a structured manner
Strong sense of confidentiality and discretion when handling sensitive information
Teamwork and collaboration in a multicultural environment
Ability to learn quickly and adapt to new topics and processes specific to an international organisation
Proactive, autonomous and reliable working style
APPLICATION PROCESS AND PRACTICAL INFORMATION
- Deadline for application: 21 April 2026
- Expected start date: as soon as possible
- Expected duration: six months with a possible extension for another six months
- Competitive allowance granted
The ESM strives to provide equal opportunity to all candidates irrespective of their gender, nationality, age, race, culture, education, religious beliefs, sexual orientation or disability. To further enhance the diversity of our workforce, we particularly encourage women to apply.
The European Stability Mechanism (ESM) is the permanent crisis resolution mechanism for euro area countries. It provides financial assistance to Members facing financing difficulties. To date, the ESM and its predecessor organisation, the European Financial Stability Facility (EFSF), have launched six financial assistance programmes to five countries, provided financial support, monitored repayment capacity, and engaged with partner institutions for programme design in areas of financial interest.
The ESM is a unique place to work with around 230 individuals committed to making a difference to the future of the euro area. It recruits talented professionals of any nationality from both the private and public sectors. The ESM’s senior management is committed to preserving and enhancing a diverse, inclusive recruitment and work environment.