contributing to production and income levels of smallholder farmers in developing countries by supporting them in their transition to Agroforestry and at the same time combating climate change, land degradation and food insecurity at a large scale!

Acorn, a new initiative within Rabobank, uses satellite images to measure farmers’ carbon storage (through biomass) and translates this into carbon removal units, providing smallholder farmers access to the international carbon market and finance for his transition into Agroforestry. This is how we are contributing to growing a better world as well as to a stronger Rabobank.

As an intern within the Government Affairs hub of Acorn, your primary goal is to support the team’s work in studying carbon regulations, preventing overlaps in projects and building linkages with relevant ministries in jurisdictions where we are present in. You will assist the team with their day-to-day activities and contribute to outreaches to and meetings with embassies. You work together with the Head of Government relations and collaborate with colleagues from different workstreams (partnerships, remote sensing and certification)and external parties. Your tasks are:

• Support the Head of Government Affairs with communications with government ministries/departments/agencies
• Development of overlap study for government and private jurisdictional carbon programs (REDD+ programs, etc.);
• Assist in studying and commenting on draft carbon regulations in order to advocate for smallholder farmers;
• Attend and build synergies with policy partners;
• Coordinate with internal colleagues to ensure government strategy alignment;
• Support the team with business administrative activities;

Integrity, eager to learn, and a drive for success are essential for the role of Agroforestry Intern. You work in an organized way and you think rigorous. It is important that you recognise yourself in the majority of the items below:

• Relevant Master degree (e.g. international relations, government affairs, environmental law, environmental studies);
• Passion for agroforestry and impact (and some experience is always welcome);
• Analytical, structured and organised;
• Strong and diplomatic interpersonal skills;
• Interest in syndicating with policy partners to promote Acorn’s work;
• Experience in writing formal communication;
• Experience/interest in research and legal studies;
• Result oriented mentality combined with organisational sensitivity;
• Fluent English, both spoken and written. Any other language (Spanish and French) a big plus;
• Interest in working with government stakeholders.

While our team is always available for guidance and advice, we value individuals who can work independently and make their own decisions. This is an opportunity to learn and grow in a supportive environment while being accountable for your own progress and deliverables. If you're ready to take on this challenge, we'd love to hear from you.

Please note: It's your responsibility to find a suitable University assignment

• A market-conforming internship allowance
• Flexible hybrid working with remote and physical weekly meetings at the head office of Rabobank in Utrecht.

Any questions? Reach out to the Head of Government Relations: Hanna Choa Yu