Policy, Communications, and Government Relations Internships

Policy, Communications, and Government Relations Internships

Location: Washington, DC (Hybrid)
Compensation: $20/hour
Schedule: Minimum 15 hours per week 
Term: Fall, Spring, and Summer opportunities available

About the Financial Services Forum

The Financial Services Forum is an economic policy and advocacy organization whose members are the eight largest and most diversified financial institutions headquartered in the United States. Forum member institutions are a leading source of lending and investment in the U.S. and serve millions of consumers, businesses, investors, and communities across the country. The Forum promotes policies that support savings and investment, financial inclusion, deep and liquid capital markets, a competitive global marketplace, and a sound financial system.

Position Summary

The Financial Services Forum is seeking highly motivated interns for its policy, communications, and government relations teams. Depending on organizational needs and candidate interests, interns will be assigned to a primary focus area while collaborating across the organization. 

This position provides a unique opportunity to gain exposure to financial services policy issues, the legislative and regulatory process, strategic communications, and the operations of a leading trade association. Interns work closely with Forum staff on substantive projects and are encouraged to take ownership of assignments. 

Responsibilities

Responsibilities may vary depending on the intern's assigned focus area.

• Monitor congressional, regulatory, and policy developments relevant to the financial services industry.
• Conduct research and prepare summaries, briefing materials, and background memoranda.
• Attend and report on congressional hearings, policy events, and industry discussions.
• Assist with drafting communications materials, newsletters, media monitoring reports, and stakeholder updates.
• Support digital communications, including social media, email, website content, and performance tracking. 
• Support preparation for meetings with policymakers, member institutions, and other external stakeholders.
• Maintain research resources, contact lists, and other organizational materials.
• Provide support on special projects as needed across the organization.

Qualifications

Successful candidates will:

• Be currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program or be a recent graduate.
• Demonstrate a strong interest in public policy, government, economics, communications, or financial services.
• Possess excellent research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Be organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Exercise professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment.
• Work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office applications; familiarity with artificial intelligence, social media, digital publishing, and/or analytics tools is a plus.

What You'll Gain

• Exposure to policymakers, industry leaders, and major public policy issues.
• A firsthand understanding of how policy, government relations, and communications work together to advance an organization’s priorities.
• Opportunities to attend congressional hearings, briefings, and industry events.
• Experience producing research, written analysis, and communications materials for senior audiences.
• A deeper understanding of financial services policy and advocacy.
• Meaningful project ownership and mentorship from experienced professionals.

Application Process

To apply, please submit a resume and a brief cover letter on Handshake. In your cover letter, please indicate which internship track (Policy, Communications, or Government Relations) most interests you. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis.

We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.