Government Affairs Intern, UK & Ireland - Placement Year

Please note this posting is to advertise potential job opportunities. This exact role may not be open today but could open in the near future. When you apply, a Cisco representative may contact you directly if a relevant position opens.

London, UK (We follow a hybrid work approach with an average office presence requirement of 2 days per week.) Start date: July 2027 End date: July 2028 Meet the Team Cisco is seeking an intern for a year-long placement in its global Government Affairs team, covering the UK & Ireland. Based in London and reporting to the Head of Government Affairs, UK & Ireland, this individual will help advance Cisco’s government engagements and public policy efforts. The 12-month placement begins in July 2027 and is designed for an individual currently studying in higher education.

About Cisco

• The team has extensive experience in and out of government and are recognised leaders in the industry.
• At Cisco, we’re revolutionizing how data and infrastructure connect and protect organizations in the AI era – and beyond.
• We’ve been innovating fearlessly for 40 years to create solutions that power how humans and technology work together across the physical and digital worlds.
• These solutions provide customers with unparalleled security, visibility, and insights across the entire digital footprint.
• Fueled by the depth and breadth of our technology, we experiment and create meaningful solutions.
• Add to that our worldwide network of doers and experts, and you’ll see that the opportunities to grow and build are limitless.
• We work as a team, collaborating with empathy to make really big things happen on a global scale.
• Because our solutions are everywhere, our impact is everywhere.
• We are Cisco, and our power starts with you.

Responsibilities

• Cisco’s Government Affairs team represents the company with governments around the world to build relationships with key leaders, advance Cisco’s public policy goals, and educate governments about our industry.
• Government Affairs is involved in all key legislative, regulatory, and global issues that impact the technology industry.
• We are comprised of government and public policy experts across two dozen countries who represent Cisco at the highest levels of government.
• As a UK & Ireland Government Affairs Intern, you will support senior colleagues to represent the company with leaders at all levels of government throughout both countries.
• You will help to formulate and implement innovative policy solutions that advance Cisco’s business and enable our purpose to power an inclusive future for all.
• Research and monitor key policy trends, regulatory changes, and developments in areas such as connectivity, AI, cybersecurity, digital transformation, skills, geopolitics, and trade.
• Develop and maintain internal-facing briefings, presentations, newsletters, and stakeholder maps to support the UKI Government Affairs function.
• Identify where Cisco can engage with policymaking and regulatory processes, including tracking key Parliamentary developments.
• Support the preparation, coordination, and follow-up of events and internal meetings.
• Explore where AI can improve team workflows and efficiency.
• Attend and produce summaries of conferences, hearings, and industry association meetings to provide actionable insights for the team.
• At the start of your internship, we’ll be focusing on helping you bridge any knowledge gaps, and your tasks will be chosen to support your learning needs.
• As you progress, we’ll rely on you more as a full member of the team working to deliver high-quality outputs.

Requirements

• Studying for a degree that is primarily focused on Politics, Public Policy, International Affairs, Economics, Law or related subjects.
• Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to interpret complex information and summarise findings in a clear, concise manner.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, including flexibility, and the ability to work autonomously in a fast-paced environment.
• Able to legally live and work in the UK.

Preferred

• Qualifications Previous internship or project experience related to technology policy or government affairs.
• Sound understanding of parliamentary processes and political institutions in the UK & Ireland.
• Able to demonstrate knowledge of politics and current affairs.
• Why Cisco?