Corporate Governance Research Trainee - Benelux Market (Fixed-Term Contract)

Location: Brussels, Belgium

ISS STOXX empowers investors and companies to build for long-term and sustainable growth by providing high-quality data, analytics, and insight. We are committed to positively impacting the environment and society through our market-leading solutions and leading by example. Our clients have long turned to ISS STOXX to apply their corporate governance views, identify environmental, social, and governance risks, and manage their global proxy voting needs.

Need a refresher on what Corporate Governance and Proxy Voting are?

Corporate governance is the system by which companies are directed and controlled. Boards of directors are responsible for the governance of their companies. The shareholders’ role in governance is developing continuously with investors increasingly acting as responsible stewards and taking into account a wide range of ESG topics. This may include considerations such as the appointment of directors, approving executive remuneration schemes, M&A, and equity issuances.

Shareholders are invited by public companies they have shares in to vote on a wide range of topics during annual general meetings and special meetings. They can delegate their voting power to a representative, who will then be considered a proxy. Here at ISS STOXX, we provide the research, insight and recommendations for our clients to make informed voting decisions.

Enter the world of corporate governance and responsible investment and jumpstart your career by gaining exposure to the fundamental affairs of businesses and economies on a global scale.

What you will do

ISS STOXX seeks a pool of talented and self-motivated research trainees for February 2027. Our trainees will be assigned to a dynamic regional market (Benelux) and guided by our experienced analysts.

As a Corporate Governance Research Trainee, you will become an integral part of the team with the crucial role of helping deliver data, research, and vote recommendations to our clients, that are institutional shareholders. The traineeship will take place during “proxy voting season.” Our goal is to support our clients in making informed voting decisions on that occasion.

As part of the ISS STOXX team, you will, along with others, analyze governance structures and performance of publicly listed companies and provide investors with the appropriate vote recommendations. In addition, you will gather publicly available data from publicly listed companies and engage with them to obtain additional information.

Using the latest technology and analyst expertise on corporate governance, you and the team will prepare reports detailing the analyses and explaining why a particular vote recommendation was given.

What you will bring to ISS STOXX

Fluent in English (both spoken and written). Dutch and/or French is preferred but not mandatory.

A relevant Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Economics, Business, Finance, Law, or Political Sciences or in the process of obtaining such a degree.

A prior experience in a relevant area will be considered as an advantage.

A strong analytical ability, numeracy, strong oral and written communication skills.

The ability to assimilate large quantities of information, work independently and take initiative while also being a team player.

An organized and structured mind.

But above all else we are most interested in the things that make you, you. The unique personal qualities, extracurricular activities and accomplishments that show who you are as a person and what value you could bring to the team.

What you will gain from this traineeship

Develop a deeper understanding of relevant technical terminology within the world of corporate governance and responsible investment.

Receive in-depth training to fulfill your career aspirations.

Expand your know-how and contribute significantly to client work.

Make a difference and perform in a workplace of integrity and transparency.

This traineeship is remunerated 2,242.81€ gross per month and will run for 4 months, from the 1st of February 2027 to the 28th of May 2027. Trainees are required to work from the ISS STOXX office 5 days a week and must be based in the country of employment from Day 1 of the traineeship. Please note that this is a fixed-term position with financial remuneration (salary), rather than a formal internship. Students seeking a placement as part of their academic program are welcome to apply and are encouraged to check with their university whether the experience can be recognised as part of their curriculum.

Interested in this great learning opportunity?

Apply online by sending your CV in English.

Please note that due to the great number of applications we receive, we can only respond to selected candidates.

To all recruitment agencies: ISS STOXX does not accept unsolicited CVs/Resumes. Please do not forward CVs/Resumes to any ISS STOXX employee, location, or website. ISS STOXX is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited CVs/Resumes.

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What You Can Expect from Us

Our people are the moving force behind our work. We are committed to building a culture that values diverse skills, perspectives, and experiences. If you have the skills, passion, and drive to help us bring clarity and transparency to capital markets, we want to work with you.

Together, we can grow your career in an environment that fuels creativity, drives innovation, and has real impact.

About ISS STOXX

ISS STOXX delivers world-class research, data, and technology solutions that empower capital market participants to pursue their visions with confidence. Our expertise spans indices, corporate governance, sustainability, cyber risk, and fund intelligence, giving clients the tools they need to uncover opportunities, manage risks, and navigate evolving regulations. We are made up of 4,000 professionals operating across 20 countries and serving approximately 5,000 clients, including many of the world’s leading institutional i