Work in a prestigious diplomatic setting with international exposure Gain hands-on experience in high-level event management and hospitality. Be part of a supportive, multicultural team. Develop transferable skills that will strengthen your CV for careers in Hospitality. You will play a key role in the Embassy’s social and ceremonial programme, supporting a wide range of official functions.
Role and Responsibilities:
- Preparing and serving at events, from intimate breakfasts to large-scale receptions;
- Assisting with event logistics, including table settings and guest service;
- Supporting the Head of Housekeeping & Service, with opportunities to deputise;
- Collaborating with the Chef on event preparation and administrative tasks;
- Managing sound and IT systems during events Contributing to the upkeep and presentation of the Residence, including housekeeping and seasonal decoration;
- Supporting the organisation of the King’s Birthday Party Reception, one of the Embassy’s flagship annual events.
We are seeking a motivated and reliable individual who:
- Has a keen interest in hospitality and events and demonstrates attention to detail and strong organisational skills;
- Is proactive, adaptable, and able to work as part of a team. Communicates confidently in a professional environment;
- Is willing to take a hands-on approach in a dynamic setting.
This internship offers a valuable opportunity to:
- Build practical experience in a high-profile international environment;
- Develop core professional skills including teamwork, communication, and event coordination;
- Gain exposure to diplomatic engagement and protocol.
Our ideal candidate shows:
- Full professional proficiency in English, both verbal and written, (a minimum of C1 level, according to CEFR*);
- At least 6-month experience in hospitality (hotel, restaurant, catering, or similar);
- Able to work independently, self-initiative;
- Friendly, proactive, and professional, with a strong sense of discretion;
- A team player with excellent communication and customer service skills;
- Comfortable using Microsoft Office and basic IT systems;
- Legally entitled to live and work in Switzerland.
Nice to have:
- Current students of Hospitality or a related field at an undergraduate level, or being a recent graduate;
- Knowledge of German and/or French language;
- Willingness to share their knowledge on Hospitality related topics, with a particular focus on beverages, to support team development and continuous learning.
Application deadline: 1 June 2026
Working hours per week: 40
Monthly Salary: CHF 2,190
Start Date: 13 July 2026
Duration of contract: 11 months
Other benefits and conditions of employment:
This is a full-time, internship contract of 40 hours per week inclusive of four compulsory 45-minute lunch breaks.
Embassy opening hours are 0730 – 1830 hrs (Monday – Thursday) and 0730 – 1330 hrs (Friday).
Gross monthly Stipend / Allowance is CHF 2,190. The annual leave entitlement is 25 days per year, increasing to 30 days over 5 years, and the Embassy also enjoys 13 Swiss/ UK public holidays per year.
The successful candidate will be subject to professional background and security clearances before a contract is offered.
FCDO is committed to continual learning and development. The Embassy will provide funding in line with L&D requirements, and a variety of learning and development is provided throughout the year both directly at post and virtually through the FCDO International Academy. There will be opportunities to attend training, lectures etc. on the job.
Visa/work permit requirements: The successful candidate must have pre-existing work authorisation for Switzerland in order to apply. All applicants should have the right to live and work in Switzerland.
Equal employment:
We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, colour, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability or gender identity. We particularly encourage applications from candidates with protected characteristics. FCDO want to maximise the potential of everyone who chooses to work for us, regardless of their background.
Additional information:
Please note that the deadline for applications is 23:55 on the day mentioned in the above field “Application deadline”.
We advise you to allow enough time to complete and submit your full application, since only applications completed and submitted before the deadline will be considered.
Please be aware that the deadline for submitting applications is considered to be the time zone for the country where the vacancy has arisen.
The British Diplomatic Missions will not be able to meet the travel costs incurred when travelling to the interview, nor the costs connected with relocation if offered a job.
*Please note for more information regarding the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, please click on the following link CEFR. Please bear in mind in case you are invited for an interview your language skill is going to be assessed.