Corporate Governance Research Trainee - Italian Market (Fixed-Term Contract)

Let’s be #BrilliantTogether

ISS STOXX empowers investors and companies to build for long-term and sustainable growth by providing high-quality data, analytics, and insight. We are committed to positively impacting the environment and society through our market-leading solutions and leading by example. Our clients have long turned to ISS STOXX to apply their corporate governance views, identify environmental, social, and governance risks, and manage their global proxy voting needs.

Need a refresher on what Corporate Governance and Proxy Voting are?

• Corporate governance is the system by which companies are directed and controlled. Boards of directors are responsible for the governance of their companies. The shareholders’ role in governance is developing continuously with investors increasingly acting as responsible stewards and taking into account a wide range of ESG topics. This may include considerations such as the appointment of directors, approving executive remuneration schemes, M&A, and equity issuances.
• Shareholders are invited by public companies they have shares in to vote on a wide range of topics during annual general meetings. They can delegate their voting power to a representative, who will then be considered a proxy. Here at ISS STOXX, we provide the research, insight and recommendations for our clients to make informed voting decisions.

Enter the world of corporate governance and responsible investment and jumpstart your career by gaining exposure to the fundamental affairs of businesses and economies on a global scale.

What you will do

ISS STOXX seeks a pool of talented and self-motivated research trainees for February 2026. Our trainees will be assigned to a dynamic market (Italy) and guided by our experienced analysts.

As a Corporate Governance Research Trainee, you will become an integral part of the team with the crucial role of helping deliver data, research, and vote recommendations to our clients, that are institutional shareholders. The traineeship will take place during “proxy voting season.” Our goal is to support our clients in making informed voting decisions on that occasion.

As part of the ISS STOXX team, you will, along with others, analyze governance structures and performance of publicly listed companies and provide investors with the appropriate vote recommendations.

Using the latest technology and analyst expertise on corporate governance, you and the team will prepare reports detailing the analyses and explaining why a particular vote recommendation was given.

Tasks and Responsibilities:

• Analyze corporate governance data, financial and extra-financial information to provide detailed reports on listed companies during the Italian proxy season.
• Provide vote recommendations for items proposed to the vote during shareholder general meetings.
• Support on pre- and post-season research activities.

What you will bring to ISS STOXX:

• Fluent in English (both spoken and written) and Italian.
• A relevant Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Economics, Business, Finance, Law, or Political Sciences or in the process of obtaining such a degree.
• A prior experience in a relevant area will be considered as an advantage.
• A strong analytical ability, numeracy, strong oral and written communication skills.
• The ability to assimilate large quantities of information, work independently and take initiative while also being a team player.
• An organized and structured mind.
• Computer literacy (Microsoft Office apps).
• Ability to support personal ideas all the while accepting criticism and contradiction.

But above all else we are most interested in the things that make you, you. The unique personal qualities, extracurricular activities and accomplishments that show who you are as a person and what value you could bring to the team.

What you will gain from this traineeship:

• Develop a deeper understanding and expertise on the Italian market in corporate governance, and shareholder rights.
• Receive in-depth training to fulfill your career aspirations.
• Expand your know-how and contribute significantly to client work.
• Make a difference and perform in a workplace of integrity and transparency.