Who we are
The Partnership is a place for community-minded business leaders who want to be involved in Houston’s positive growth and influence the direction in which Houston is going. Through the dedicated efforts of our members, the Partnership addresses Houston’s unique challenges and champions the growth and success of our region.
Since 1840, the Greater Houston Partnership has strived to make the region the best place to live, work and build a business. We serve over 1,000 member companies in the 12-county Houston region including Austin, Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Liberty, Montgomery, San Jacinto, Walker, Waller, and Wharton counties.
Join us as we work together to make Houston greater.
What we are looking for
Internship Purpose: The Public Policy Department (PPD) Intern will support the Greater Houston Partnership’s public policy and government relations efforts by assisting with research, stakeholder engagement, and monitoring of government activity at the local, state, and regional levels.
Through this internship, the intern will gain hands-on experience in public policy analysis, government affairs, and the role of business advocacy in shaping policy outcomes. The intern will also develop professional communication skills and build an understanding of how public and private sector leaders collaborate across the Greater Houston region.
Requirements: The ideal candidate is a junior, senior, or recent graduate with a strong interest in public policy, government, or politics. Candidates should demonstrate intellectual curiosity, professionalism, and a desire to better understand the policy landscape impacting the Houston region.
Applicants should embody the department’s core characteristics: excel, communicate, be intentional, build relationships, and care. Interns must provide their own laptop and successfully pass a background check and drug test.
Skills:
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Interest in public policy, government, and civic engagement
- Ability to synthesize information and communicate clearly
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Ability to work both independently and in a team environment
- Willingness to learn
Term: The internship will run from June through August (with flexibility). Business Casual attire is required. A typical week will require 15-20 hours of office work, with a specific schedule to be determined.
Assignments: All assignments will be completed in collaboration with members of the Public Policy Department. Responsibilities may include:
- Monitor and report on local, state, and regional government activity, including:
- Houston City Council and Harris County Commissioners Court meetings
- State agency hearings and interim committee meetings
- Attend public meetings and hearings as appropriate
- Draft post-event summaries and blog-style content
- Assist in developing content such as Women in Government features, and bi-monthly committee newsletter.
- Compile and distribute regular news clips on relevant policy issues
- Support drafting and distribution of department communications and email updates
- Maintain and update stakeholder and contact lists
- Provide logistical and on-site support for PPD events and convenings
- Complete an intern-specific research project on a relevant policy topic
- Attend Partnership events, luncheons, and policy programs
Compensation: Stipend opportunity available. The Partnership will cover the cost of parking or provide a Metro Q Card to cover bus/light rail expenses.
Academic Credit: To be determined by the student’s school.
TO APPLY: Candidates should email their resume and a brief cover letter to Scout Odegaard, Manager, Public Policy at sodegaard@houston.org
The Greater Houston Partnership is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants and employees are treated without regard to such factors as race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other reason prohibited by law.
