Intern, Government Affairs & Strategic Communications, Shanghai, Native-Level English, January 2027 Start
APCO · Shanghai
The Role
We are looking for an Intern with native-level English communication skills to join our Shanghai office from January 2027.
As part of the team, you will gain hands-on experience supporting a diverse range of marketing and client projects across various industries. Working alongside experienced colleagues, you will contribute to meaningful project work while building your professional, research, and business writing skills.
This is a paid onsite internship based in Shanghai, requiring a minimum commitment of three months and at least three full working days per week.
Responsibilities
Assist with basic research on policy, industry, media, and market developments.
Monitor traditional and social media and help compile regular updates.
Help prepare presentations, briefing materials, and other documents for clients.
Draft, edit, and proofread English-language content.
Assist with research and drafting for proposals and other new business opportunities.
Support team meetings, client activities, and events as needed.
Provide other project support to the team.
Requirements
Third-year undergraduate students or above, including master’s students and recent graduates, majoring in international relations, political science, communications, public relations, or a related field.
Ideally, some relevant experience gained through an internship, academic project or volunteer work, particularly in public affairs, strategic communications, consulting, research, media, or a related field.
Strong research, analytical, writing and editing skills, with excellent attention to detail.
Native or near-native proficiency in English. Ideally, candidates will have some proficiency in Chinese as well.
Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
Proficient AI literacy and an interest in using approved AI tools effectively and responsibly to support research, analysis, communication, and day-to-day work.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly PowerPoint, Word, and Excel.
Internship Eligibility and Compensation
Preference will be given to candidates who are currently based in Mainland China, able to work onsite at our Shanghai office, hold valid Chinese student residence permits, and are eligible to obtain the required internship annotation for the full duration of the internship.
APCO can provide internship compensation to candidates with an active bank account in Mainland China. Candidates without an eligible Mainland China bank account may still be considered, with the understanding that the internship would be unpaid.
APCO Greater China
APCO has advised clients in China since 1989, helping businesses, governments, and nonprofit organizations navigate an evolving political, regulatory, and business environment. Through our offices in Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong, we provide integrated expertise across public affairs, business advisory, and strategic communications, including government relations, market entry, risk assessment, crisis management, media engagement, and digital communications. Our multilingual and cross-cultural team brings diverse experience across business, government, journalism, academia, and the nonprofit sector, enabling us to deliver tailored solutions that support our clients’ goals in this complex and fast-moving market.
For more information please visit: http://www.apcoworldwide.com
Careers at APCO
Through our recruitment, hiring, and retention efforts, APCO is committed to building teams to bring the best possible expertise and robust perspectives to our clients. We embrace differences in experience, viewpoint and ideas, starting with our values and extending to our behaviors, policies and practices. We aim to create a positive work experience and welcoming environment where everyone feels they belong and can thrive.
About APCO
APCO is a global advisory and advocacy firm helping leading corporations, foundations and governments navigate a complex world and create lasting impact.
Founded in 1984, with one woman’s vision and bold action, APCO has grown into an independent, majority women-owned firm of more than 1,200 employees with work spanning 80 markets around the world.
Headquartered in Washington, D.C., APCO is comprised of strategic advisers, consultants and creators, working together across borders and functions, to provide services and expertise on financial, competitive, political and societal issues.
APCO is a trusted partner to bold purpose-led leaders, lawmakers, government officials, NGOs, the media and other stakeholders in the health, energy, technology, transportation & infrastructure and food & consumer products sectors. For 40 years, the firm has provided public affairs, crisis & reputation, impact, corporate reputation and global solutions services.
APCO is renowned for its ability to champion clients’ interests and permission to operate, build their reputation and strengthen their standing. APCO’s integrated approach and team of tenacious and empathic talent create connections and winning strategies that accelerate progress and deepen impact.
By bringing diverse people and ideas together, and working beyond traditional boundaries, APCO builds the un/common ground upon which progress is made.