Business Development Intern

Job Summary

We are seeking a proactive and organized Business Development Intern to support the Corporate Relations & Business Development Manager in growing and maintaining corporate and university partnerships internationally. This hands-on role offers exposure to international business development, strategic outreach, and partnership management, directly contributing to the growth and impact of Absolute Internship programs.

The intern will assist with lead generation, university engagement campaigns, partnership development, and the execution of networking events ensuring the Corporate Relations team operates efficiently and strategically.

Location: Remote

Duration: Full-time 6-month Internship beginning in November 2026.

What is Absolute Internship?

In less than a decade, Absolute Internship has become a leading program for university students, operating in Barcelona, Beijing, Hong Kong, Lisbon, London, Madrid, Paris, Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore, Stockholm, and Tokyo.

We work with great companies to provide students the opportunity to develop both their personal and professional skill sets and inspire them to follow their passions in an international environment. Our programs allow students to step out of their comfort zone, gain insight into their industry of interest, meet industry leaders, and build professional networks.

Absolute Internship is frequently featured on top media outlets such as The New York Times, BBC, Bloomberg, Reuters, and Sky News.

Why work with us?

There are roles that pay well but feel repetitive, and roles with responsibility but little growth. This position is different — it’s versatile, entrepreneurial, and offers hands-on experience in international business development.

You’ll work on real projects that expand our network, create opportunities for students worldwide, and help shape the growth of a leading global internship program. This role can be the start of an inspiring international career while giving you exposure to strategy, partnership-building, and cross-team collaboration.

Does this sound interesting?

Who we are

We’re travelers, innovators, thinkers, and doers
We help students discover the world
Open and collaborative – we all work together
We’re small, but mighty and global - we have programs all around the world
Our Absolute company culture is vibrant, international, diverse, and definitely unique

Who you are:

A self-starter with entrepreneurial spirit who thrives on challenges
Curious, resourceful, and proactive in generating opportunities and solving problems
Organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously
Confident communicator who can build relationships and collaborate across teams
Motivated by growth, learning, and making a tangible impact

Proposed Responsibilities:

Lead Generation & Pipeline Management (Priority): Conduct research, generate leads, and maintain the BD pipeline, ensuring timely follow-up, tracking, and reporting.
Custom Program Support: Assist with sourcing Custom Program visits and preparing for corporate meetings and site visits.
Support Corporate Partner Growth: Assist the Manager in identifying, approaching, and nurturing potential corporate partners for internships and Custom Programs.
Networking & Event Support: Help organize and execute networking events, conferences, and meetings to foster relationships and strategic alliances.
Cross-Team Collaboration: Work with Placement, Operations, and Enrollment teams to align communications, programs, and BD initiatives.
Reporting & Insights: Support tracking, reporting, and analysis of regional BD activity and outcomes, providing insights to the Manager for decision-making.
Process Improvement: Contribute ideas to improve BD strategies, outreach methods, and internal processes to maximize efficiency and impact.

Goals and Expectations:

Fully support the Corporate Relations & BD Manager in achieving regional partnership outreach objectives.
Maintain professionalism, attention to detail, and timely communication in all BD activities.
Proactively identify opportunities to enhance corporate and university engagement.
Demonstrate initiative, creativity, and resourcefulness in solving challenges and improving processes

IDEAL QUALITIES AND EXPERIENCE:

1+ years of work experience; internships or roles in Sales, Customer Success, Recruiting, or BD preferred
Bachelor’s degree; international relations, business, or project management background a plus
Strong written and verbal communication skills in English (additional languages a plus)
Self-starter, organized, and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously
Relationship-driven, proactive, and curious, with a passion for building networks and strategic partnerships
Comfortable working in a global, diverse, and collaborative environment
Familiarity with CRM systems and data reporting tools a plus

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Absolute Internship is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity is valued, celebrated, and respected. Different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives strengthen our team and help us serve our global community.

We look forward to welcoming a passionate, driven professional who shares our mission of creating life-changing international opportunities for students worldwide.

Business Development Intern