The World Economic Forum is now accepting applications for its Early Careers Programme – Spring 2026 Cohort, offering a unique opportunity for early-career professionals to contribute to global systems change. This full-time, paid six-month programme is open to recent graduates and emerging professionals interested in international development, innovation, and multistakeholder collaboration.

Who Should Apply

• Graduates of bachelor’s or master’s degree programmes

• With up to 3 years of cumulative work experience, including internships

• Must have work authorization for the country of the applied location (work visa support only available for Geneva-based roles)

Key Details

Programme Duration: 6 months, full-time onsite
Start Dates: Between 15 March and 15 April 2026
Locations: Geneva, Tokyo, Mumbai, Beijing
Monthly Compensation:

• Geneva: CHF 4,500 (includes salary and medical allowance)

• Beijing: CNY 12,500

• Mumbai: INR 91,666

• Tokyo: JPY 333,333
  Application Deadline: Sunday, 26 November 2025

Application and Selection Process

To apply, candidates must submit a resume and complete application questions, indicating preferred functional and thematic focus areas.

Selection process steps include:

1. Initial screening

2. Asynchronous video interview

3. Interviews with hiring managers and team members

4. Personality assessment

5. Final interview with Talent Acquisition

6. Background check and reference verification

Offers will be extended to selected candidates based on final evaluations.

What You Will Do

Participants will work in one or more of the Forum’s strategic or operational areas. You will collaborate with experienced professionals on high-impact initiatives, gaining practical skills in stakeholder engagement, project management, research, and communications.

Functional Tracks:

• Stakeholder Engagement: Support and manage partnerships with key stakeholders and Forum constituents

• Project, Content, and Policy Management: Develop research, manage projects, and contribute to content strategy across key industry and thematic areas

• Data and Analytics: Collect and analyze data to support research and decision-making

• Technology and Digital Innovation: Support development and adoption of digital tools and platforms for enhanced collaboration

• Core Enabling Functions: Business operations including events, finance, legal, HR, communications, and partnerships

Thematic Focus Areas

Applicants can express interest in one or more of the following thematic areas:

• Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chains

• AI, Frontier Technologies and Digital Innovation

• Economic Growth, Equity and Inclusion

• Energy and Materials

• Financial and Monetary Systems

• Health and Healthcare

• Regional Agenda, Trade and Geopolitics

• Sustainability, Nature and Climate

• Urban Transformation

Functional Areas

When applying, candidates will also choose their preferred functional focus from:

• Business Development and Key Account Management

• Event Management and Global Programming

• Finance, Procurement, Legal, and Compliance

• Hospitality and Facility Management

• Marketing, Communications, and Media Relations

• People and Culture

Skills and Competencies Developed

• Sense of Mission: Strong alignment with the Forum’s goal to improve the state of the world

• Collaboration and Relationship Management: Work effectively across cultures and sectors

• Communication: Develop skills in writing, speaking, and presenting professionally

• Problem-Solving: Analytical thinking and creative solution development

• Adaptability and Resilience: Flexibility in a fast-paced and evolving environment

Why Work at the Forum

Working at the World Economic Forum means joining a global, diverse, and mission-driven team committed to positive systems change. With offices across six countries and a workforce representing over 100 nationalities, the Forum fosters collaboration, innovation, and leadership at scale. This programme offers early-career professionals direct exposure to high-level initiatives that shape global, regional, and industry agendas.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply by Sunday, 26 November 2025. Early applications are encouraged. Selected participants will begin their placements between 15 March and 15 April 2026.

For application instructions and full details, visit the World Economic Forum careers page: https://weforum.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/Forum_Careers/job/Geneva/Early-Careers-Programme–Spring-2026-Cohort_R3746

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