Do you enjoy solving problems?
Do you like sharing ideas and seeing them shape real change?
Would you like to help make the West Midlands the best place to live, work, and visit?
Join us at the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA). We are the regional authority for the urban West Midlands, working every day to improve life for the people who live and work here, from creating good jobs and better transport, to tackling inequality and supporting greener growth.
We are recruiting for two paid, eight-week internship cohorts in 2026:
- Spring Cohort: April to May
- Summer Cohort: July to August
Successful Interns will based at our offices at 16 Summer Lane, Birmingham, with at least three days per week in person. Start dates will be confirmed once pre-employment checks are complete. You must be available for the full duration of your chosen cohort.
What you will be doing
You will contribute to real projects that matter. Depending on your team, you might:
- Research key policy issues affecting the region
- Help communicate with communities and decision-makers
- Draft responses to consultations
- Support events and engagement activities
- Contribute to the delivery of projects and programmes
- Work collaboratively to turn ideas into action
No two days will be the same, and you will be supported throughout your time with us.
The teams
Opportunities are available in:
- Policy and Integration
- Research, Intelligence and Inclusive Growth (Summer 2026)
What we are looking for
We want thoughtful, curious people who want to make a difference. You do not need to be a specialist or have prior experience in regional government. We care more about your thinking, motivation, and willingness to learn.
We would love to hear from you if you can demonstrate:
- Strong communication skills, written and verbal
- Creativity in presenting ideas clearly
- Motivation and a positive attitude
- Ability to work independently and with others
- GCSE-level education or equivalent
- A genuine interest in the West Midlands
We particularly welcome applications from groups underrepresented in our sector, including women, ethnic minorities, and care leavers.
What you will gain
- Hands-on experience on meaningful regional projects
- Insight into how regional government works
- Experience in policy development, project delivery, and stakeholder engagement
- Greater confidence and clarity about your future career
- A professional network across WMCA and partner organisations
Your contribution will help improve the lives of people across the West Midlands.
How to apply
We have kept the process simple. No CV or cover letter is required.
You will answer three short questions with a maximum of 500 words each. Use examples from school, volunteering, part-time work, hobbies, or other experiences that show who you are and how you think
- Problem-solving:
Tell us about one problem or area you would like to improve in the West Midlands (Birmingham, Black Country, Coventry, Solihull). How would you address it using only ideas and effort, without spending any money? - Reflection on the region:
Describe a moment when you felt proud of the West Midlands. What happened, and why does it stay with you? - Learning and impact:
Tell us what you hope to gain from this internship and how your work could make a difference.
You’ll also be asked to indicate which internship cohort you are interested in and available for:
• April to May 2026 (Spring Cohort)
• July to August 2026 (Summer Cohort)
• Both
Introductory Webinars
To help you get started, we will be hosting an introductory webinar ahead of the application deadline. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the application process, hear from current team members, and ask any questions you might have.
We are holding the webinars on:
- Thursday 26 February between 14:00 and 15:00
- Monday 2 March between 18:00 and 19:00
You can sign up for the webinar by clicking this link.
What happens next?
Applications will be reviewed by our team.
If successful, you’ll be invited to an interview at our Birmingham offices week commencing 16th March
Anonymised recruitment
Our process is anonymised. Shortlisting is based on the information you provide in your application form. Please complete each section carefully it’s your opportunity to showcase your skills and potential.
Using Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI can be a helpful tool for structuring ideas or improving clarity. However, we’re interested in your thinking and your voice. Your application should reflect your own experiences and perspective.
Reasonable adjustments
If you have an accessibility need, disability or condition that means you may require adjustments to the application or recruitment process, please contact our Recruitment Team at careers@wmca.org.uk.
Why join WMCA?
WMCA is focused on delivering real change for the region creating jobs, improving transport, supporting greener growth, and ensuring everyone has access to safe, affordable places to call home.
We put people and place at the heart of everything we do. Your contribution will matter and you’ll see the impact of your work.
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