What do they do:

• Offer policy advice and mediate in certain issues that need third parties. Provide funds and execute programs and projects that require specific expertise. Research about underlying issues and policies affecting sectors or regions.
• Provide funds and execute programs and projects that require specific expertise. Research about underlying issues and policies affecting sectors or regions.
• Research about underlying issues and policies affecting sectors or regions.

Characteristics of Labor Market:

• The entry points are internships, graduate programs, UN volunteering and consultancies. Competition is extremely high. Extensive previous experience is required for staff positions. Applications usually require heavy work. Recruitment timelines are usually long, lasting between 2 and 8 months. They usually ask for a Cover Letter and References.
• Competition is extremely high. Extensive previous experience is required for staff positions. Applications usually require heavy work. Recruitment timelines are usually long, lasting between 2 and 8 months. They usually ask for a Cover Letter and References.
• Extensive previous experience is required for staff positions. Applications usually require heavy work. Recruitment timelines are usually long, lasting between 2 and 8 months. They usually ask for a Cover Letter and References.
• Applications usually require heavy work. Recruitment timelines are usually long, lasting between 2 and 8 months. They usually ask for a Cover Letter and References.
• Recruitment timelines are usually long, lasting between 2 and 8 months. They usually ask for a Cover Letter and References.
• They usually ask for a Cover Letter and References.

Types of Entry Options:

• Internships are open to Bachelors and Masters students. No experience required, but it makes you more competitive (work or volunteering experience). Duration of internships is 3-6 months, and they are usually unpaid. Development Banks and IFIs offer Junior Professional Officer (JPO) and Young Professional Programs (YPP). UN Volunteers (UNV) is a good way in to gain experience, and they are often paid. Consultancies require a minimum of technical expertise in the field.
• No experience required, but it makes you more competitive (work or volunteering experience). Duration of internships is 3-6 months, and they are usually unpaid. Development Banks and IFIs offer Junior Professional Officer (JPO) and Young Professional Programs (YPP). UN Volunteers (UNV) is a good way in to gain experience, and they are often paid. Consultancies require a minimum of technical expertise in the field.
• Duration of internships is 3-6 months, and they are usually unpaid. Development Banks and IFIs offer Junior Professional Officer (JPO) and Young Professional Programs (YPP). UN Volunteers (UNV) is a good way in to gain experience, and they are often paid. Consultancies require a minimum of technical expertise in the field.
• Development Banks and IFIs offer Junior Professional Officer (JPO) and Young Professional Programs (YPP). UN Volunteers (UNV) is a good way in to gain experience, and they are often paid. Consultancies require a minimum of technical expertise in the field.
• UN Volunteers (UNV) is a good way in to gain experience, and they are often paid. Consultancies require a minimum of technical expertise in the field.
• Consultancies require a minimum of technical expertise in the field.

Resources:

• For valuable insights on How to Get a Job in IGOs, take a look at this presentation
• Check out these useful career webinars from 2024-2025: UNSSC UNHR UNDPechnical expertise in the field.
  • UNSSC
  • UNHR
  • UNDP

What do they do:

• Public Sector agencies can be local, national, regional, or international. Funded by public money (governments). They offer programs and projects with great coverage following a policy line directed by funding source. Recruiting processes must be transparent and require very schematic procedures.
• Funded by public money (governments). They offer programs and projects with great coverage following a policy line directed by funding source. Recruiting processes must be transparent and require very schematic procedures.
• They offer programs and projects with great coverage following a policy line directed by funding source. Recruiting processes must be transparent and require very schematic procedures.
• Recruiting processes must be transparent and require very schematic procedures.

Characteristics of Labor Market:

• For current students and recent graduates, they usually offer internships and traineeships. Competition is high and country representation is very relevant. Applications are usually cumbersome and must be done through public platforms. Calls for Applications are launched periodically.
• Competition is high and country representation is very relevant. Applications are usually cumbersome and must be done through public platforms. Calls for Applications are launched periodically.
• Applications are usually cumbersome and must be done through public platforms. Calls for Applications are launched periodically.
• Calls for Applications are launched periodically.

Types of Entry Options:

• Usually open to Masters students, and in some cases to Bachelors students. Government calls for applications are done through university partnerships and they are usually e unpaid. Example: MAEC (Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores y Cooperación) Calls for Applications, as well as those from other Ministries of Foreign Affairs.
• Government calls for applications are done through university partnerships and they are usually unpaid.
• Example: MAEC (Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores y Cooperación) Calls for Applications, as well as those from other Ministries of Foreign Affairs.

Resources:

• Find opportunities at European Union Institutions: click here for Spanish Nationals or click here for other EU nationalities.
  • Guide released by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs (in Spanish). Access it here
• YEPSO (a company that helps candidates prepare for EU Job Applications)
  • How to prepare for the EU Competitions and become a civil servant of the European Institutions
  • Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ UC8Yua4ErAnv8Ig1rRHwct_Q
  • Website: https://www.yepso.eu/index

What do they do:

• NGOs and Foundations can be local or international, big or small.
• Funded with private money (donors), and NGOs are often funded with public grants.
• There are thousands of NGOs all over the world focused on specific topics or targeting a specific population.
• Recruiting processes are cumbersome or straightforward depending on the NGO's size.
• NGOs tend to be implementing partners for Multilateral Organizations.

Characteristics of Labor Market:

• Internships are easier to land.
• Entry-Level staff positions are often open for recent graduates, but volunteering experience is desirable.
• Competition may be high depending on the type of NGO and the type of role.
• Recruiting is more straightforward – they usually require a CV and Cover Letter to be sent to a specific person.

Types of Entry Options:

• Internship and Volunteering roles are often unpaid.
• They open vacancies based on current needs and budget availability - roles are usually linked to grants received.
• Positions are published in specific job search engines.

Resources:

Acumen Academy | Asociación Española de Fundaciones | CARE International | Elea Foundation for Ethics in Globalization | Fundación Universidad-Empresa | Human Rights Watch | International Committee of the Red Cross | Fundación Puentes Global | Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) | OCEANA | Plan International | Transparency International | Action Against Hunger (ACF-ACH) | Save the Children | Telefonica Foundation | United Way

What do they do:

• Represent interests before public institutions: They act as intermediaries between companies, NGOs, trade associations, or governments and EU, national, or regional policymakers.
• Design and implement influence strategies: They create and execute lobbying campaigns aimed at shaping public policy, regulation, or legislative decisions.
• Monitor political and regulatory developments: They track EU legislation, political shifts, and regulatory risks and opportunities relevant to their clients’ interests.
• Advise on institutional relations and reputation: They help build strategic relationships with key stakeholders and improve public positioning and credibility.
• Draft position papers and coordinate advocacy events: They prepare technical documents, propose amendments, and organize events (e.g., roundtables, conferences) to bring client perspectives directly to decision-makers.

Characteristics of Labor Market:

• Highly dependent on political cycles and regulatory shifts: Demand rises around elections, major legislation, or policy reforms—making timing and anticipation essential.
• Multilevel and multifaceted: Work may involve navigating city halls, national parliaments, international institutions, or cross-border regulatory frameworks.
• Blend of policy expertise and communications skill: Firms must combine technical understanding of policy with narrative crafting and public positioning.
• Strong emphasis on credibility and transparency: Many countries require registration of lobbying activities and ethical codes of conduct, with increasing scrutiny on influence practices.
• Diverse client base: From multinationals and startups to nonprofits and government agencies—each with unique goals, risk profiles, and political sensitivities.

Types of Entry Options:

• Internships and Junior roles in Public Affairs consultancies: Positions such as Internships, Junior Consultant or Policy Analyst in lobbying firms or communications agencies are common starting roles.
• Think tanks and NGOs with EU focus: Many offer entry-level roles involving policy research, advocacy, and event organization—ideal for those passionate about specific causes.
• Permanent representations and trade associations: National/regional delegations, chambers of commerce, or EU-level sector associations often recruit junior policy officers or advisors.
• Corporate public affairs or government relations teams: Large companies often have in-house teams that hire for support roles on regulatory intelligence and engagement strategies.

What do they do:

• Research on foreign policy and international issues. Get hired by government, foundations and private businesses. Usually employ interdisciplinary approaches to finding long-term solutions to policy-related issues. Produce major publications, submit articles to major newspapers, organize professional conferences, lectures, and policy forums.
• Usually employ interdisciplinary approaches to finding long-term solutions to policy-related issues. Produce major publications, submit articles to major newspapers, organize professional conferences, lectures, and policy forums.
• Produce major publications, submit articles to major newspapers, organize professional conferences, lectures, and policy forums.

Characteristics of Labor Market:

• Available positions vary and they're very much dependent upon one’s level of education. Research-related positions usually require a MA or PhD and specialized expertise. Individuals with BA degrees go to assisting positions. Recruiting processes are straightforward and project-based.
• Research-related positions usually require a MA or PhD and specialized expertise. Individuals with BA degrees go to assisting positions. Recruiting processes are straightforward and project-based.
• Individuals with BA degrees go to assisting positions. Recruiting processes are straightforward and project-based.
• Recruiting processes are straightforward and project-based.

Types of Entry Options:

• Internships and Entry-Level positions are available.
• Positions often include Program Manager/Assistant, Research Assistant, or Research Associate.

Resources and Guides

• Find out more about Think Tanks around the world here.
• 2020 Global Go To Think Tank Index Report (2020)
• THINK TANK STATE OF THE SECTOR 2023

A Social Impact business has a dual goal of generating profit by creating a positive impact on society, a community, or the world. This impact can be economic, social, or environmental.

Below is a table classifying impact only and private sector companies under this vertical:

There are several sub-paths that are included under Social Impact:

A. For-profit companies or institutions whose source of financing is private and whose core business is to provide goods and services - this is the case of Social Enterprises (like B Corporations) and Foundations.

B. Multinational corporations whose core business is not social impact or development, BUT that have departments or positions that are related to this sector - this is the case of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Social Impact or public affairs departments.

Here are some examples of Impact Consulting organizations by location:

• Madrid: Bolsa Social | Q Impact | Fundación Nantik Lum | Microwd | Zubilabs | Creas | Kaya | Gawa | K Fund | Global Social Impact Investments | Triodos Investment Management | IMPACT Partners | Ship2b | Mago Equity | Ethifinance | Kimpa | Trascendent | Impact Bridge |Social Nest Foundation
• Switzerland: Quadia (Geneva) | Blue Horizon (Zurich) | Blue Orchard (Geneva & Zurich) | Bamboo Capital Partners | Sagana | ResponsAbility (Zurich) | Symbiotics (Geneva HQ)
• Munich: Ananda Impact Ventures | BonVenture | Summa Equity | Ambienta | Trill Impact
• London: Systemiq | The Social Investment Consultancy | GSG Impact | ERM

Here is the Workmaze Guide to the Top 100 International Sustainability Recruiting Companies

Development Consulting Firms

What do they do:

• For-profit organizations that provide specialized expertise and services to multilateral, bilateral and national agencies, global and local NGOs and corporate foundations, as well as multinational companies.
• They are client-based, fast-paced, very hour-intensive and fairly remunerated.
• Their recruiting processes are fairly transparent and straightforward.

Characteristics of Labor Market:

• Internships are the most likely way to start at a firm.
• Competition is high and will depend on the size and prestige.
• Personal and professional contacts can be very helpful.
• The main types of work involve strategy, operations, business organization, and systems design.

Types of Entry Options:

• Internships and Entry Level jobs are viable.
• Open both for recent graduates and current students.
• Entry-level positions traditionally include Analyst or Research Associates.
• Information sessions are usually given in the early Fall and interviews go from October to April.

ESG: Environmental, Social and Governance

What do they do:

• Sustainability-linked bonds or Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) linked bonds.
• Build long-term relationships with clients that consider environmental issues.
• Focus on "hard debate sectors" whose emissions are very difficult to reduce, on agriculture and on electric vehicles.

Types of activities where opportunities may be available:

• ESG is becoming the future of financial jobs as sustainable debt proliferates.
• Europe is the leading the global job market for this type of jobs.

Types of Entry Options:

• The issuance of green bonds/loans which are used to fund climate and environmental projects.
• The issuance of sustainability bonds, which are applied to environmentally sustainable outcomes.
• The issuance of transition bonds, which are used by carbon-intensive organizations with the intention to decarbonize.
• The issuance of social bonds, which are applied to projects promoting social welfare and creating a positive communal impact.
• Sustainability-linked bonds/loans which are linked to sustainability performance targets.
• Clean energy project finance that supports clean energy projects and low emission technologies.

* Source: McKinsey & Co. has seen the future of banking jobs: It's ESG

CAREERS IN SUSTAINABILITY

Careers in sustainability focus on balancing environmental responsibility with economic and social needs, preserving what works from the past while planning wisely for the future. These roles span industries such as energy, agriculture, manufacturing, urban planning, finance, and consulting, among others, and they demand a combination of critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and technical skills. Please have a look here for a presentation on Careers in Sustainability.

*Presentation provided by: Concepción Galdon PhD, Vice-Dean Business with Purpose IE BusinessSchool, Director IE Center for Social Innovation & Sustainability, Professor

WANT TO GET SKILLS IN ESG?

Here are some online resources to develop your ESG skills:

• ESG and Climate Change
• ESG Risks and Opportunities
• SAP Environment, Health, and Safety for Operational Sustainability
• Introduction to ESG by Corporate Finance Institute

The recruitment cycles in organizations within the Global Impact Sector can vary significantly depending on the type of organization, its size, and its specific needs. However, there are some general patterns and timelines that can be observed across non-profits, social impact, CSR, government agencies, and international organizations.

Recruitment Cycles in UN Organizations

The United Nations (UN) encompasses various agencies, each with its recruitment cycles and practices. Commonly, the recruitment processes for UN positions, internships, and volunteer opportunities adhere to specific timelines and structured procedures.

1. Annual and Rolling Recruitment:

1. Professional and Higher Categories (P and D levels): These positions are typically filled through competitive examinations, job postings, and rosters. The recruitment process can take several months.
2. General Service and Related Categories (G levels): Recruitment is often conducted locally and on a rolling basis, depending on the needs of the specific UN office or mission.
3. Field Service and National Professional Officers: Recruitment occurs based on mission needs and can be more flexible.

2. Young Professionals Programme (YPP):

1. Annual Recruitment Cycle: The YPP is an entry point for young professionals into the UN. Applications usually open in mid-year (June to August), with exams held later in the year (December).

3. Internship Programs

1. Structured Recruitment Periods: UN internships are typically offered in three cycles: January-March, May-July, and September- November. Application deadlines are usually 3-6 months in advance.

4. Volunteering Opportunities

1. Ongoing Recruitment: UN Volunteers (UNV) and other volunteer positions are recruited on a rolling basis, with opportunities available throughout the year.

Recruitment Cycles in NGOs and Foundations

• Annual and Rolling Recruitment: Many large non-profits like the Red Cross and Amnesty International have annual recruitment cycles, often aligning with the calendar or fiscal year. Some roles may be filled on a rolling basis as needs arise.
• Internship Programs: Typically recruit 3-6 months in advance, often aligning with academic semesters.
• Volunteer Positions: Often available year-round with flexible start dates.

Recruitment Cycles in Social Impact

• Seasonal Hiring: Recruitment can be tied to specific project cycles or funding periods.
• Internships and Fellowships: Applications are usually accepted several months in advance, often with spring or fall start dates.

Application Preparation:

• 6-12 Months in Advance: Start preparing applications, networking, and seeking recommendations.
• 3-6 Months in Advance: Finalize and submit applications, prepare for interviews, and attend recruitment events.

• OECD Skills for Jobs
• APSIA
• APSIA - Career Guide
• What is Public Affairs
• Guide to Working in Public Affairs
• IE Report - The Fourth Sector
• Career Tips Thursday