1. Host Organization

The position is based at Plan Bleu, the Regional Activity Centre of the Mediterranean Action Plan (MAP). Plan Bleu is established as a non-profit association under the French 1901 Law and is governed by a Board of Directors based in Marseille. MAP is one of the main components of the United Nations Environment Programme’s (UNEP) Regional Seas Programme. It operates under a legal framework: the Barcelona Convention, and relies on six Regional Activity Centres (RACs), whose mission is notably to support the implementation of the various protocols attached to the Convention.

As a Mediterranean think tank and hub for initiatives, Plan Bleu’s mission is to produce and disseminate scientific, strategic, and forward-looking intelligence to support the ecological, economic, and social transitions of the Mediterranean region. It mobilizes stakeholders to transform knowledge into action and inspire shared public policies.

Its five main strategic missions are:

• Mediterranean Observatory for Sustainable Development: Monitoring environmental and socio-economic dynamics to provide reliable data, indicators, and systemic analyses that support informed decision-making.
• Foresight and Transition Pathways: Imagining and co-constructing possible futures for the Mediterranean by engaging all levels of governance to guide sustainable development policies for territories and maritime areas.
• Innovation and Sustainable Economies: Accelerating and supporting green and blue transitions through innovation, sustainable solutions, and long-term economic and financial instruments.
• Natural Heritage and Territorial Resilience: Preserving socio-ecosystems and strengthening their resilience to global change, notably through nature-based solutions and ecological restoration.
• Science-Policy-Society Interface and Multi-level Governance: Bridging science, policy, economic stakeholders, and civil society to turn knowledge into action, support public policies, and facilitate environmental diplomacy.

2. Context

Plan Bleu is seeking a work-study student/apprentice to support its activities related to internal and external communication and stakeholder engagement.

As a Mediterranean laboratory for ideas and initiatives, Plan Bleu acts as a genuine bridge between science, policy, economics, and society. Through its role within the Mediterranean Action Plan, it deploys a strategic communication approach targeting a wide range of stakeholders: decision-makers from the 21 Contracting Parties to the Barcelona Convention, local authorities, national and international institutions, donors, the private sector, the scientific community, NGOs, civil society, the general public, and youth.

Plan Bleu’s work aims to transform knowledge into action. Its communications therefore target diverse audiences, ranging from policymakers and practitioners to the general public and younger generations. Plan Bleu is committed to producing impactful and tailored communication formats to disseminate its analyses across both shores of the Mediterranean.

In this context, the apprentice will provide essential cross-functional support to Plan Bleu’s communication strategy. They will work closely with the Communications Manager and the Administrative Department, while interacting with senior management and the experts leading Plan Bleu’s strategic missions.

3. Position Objectives

The apprentice will contribute to various communication-related tasks (this non-exhaustive list may evolve according to the department’s needs):

1. Digital Communication and Platform Management

• Contribute to the management and updating of Plan Bleu’s WordPress website: content integration, page creation and updates, publication of articles and news.
• Support the website redesign and development project in coordination with service providers and internal teams.
• Participate in the digital dissemination strategy for Plan Bleu’s content.
• Assist with social media management (LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube): drafting posts, scheduling publications, monitoring performance, and tracking digital trends.
• Contribute to improving the visibility of web content and publications (SEO, editorial and digital best practices).

2. Content Creation and Editorial Production

• Participate in drafting articles, web content, newsletters, and institutional communication materials.
• Contribute to the creation of print and digital communication materials: flyers, brochures, web banners, infographics, presentations, social media visuals, etc.
• Perform basic image editing and graphic format adaptations.
• Assist in designing and distributing newsletters and managing mailing lists.
• Propose creative ideas and formats to showcase Plan Bleu’s activities and projects.

3. Audiovisual Production and Project Promotion

• Participate in the preparation, filming, and editing of video content.
• Produce short-form content for social media (Instagram Reels, YouTube videos, short video capsules).
• Support the audiovisual promotion of Plan Bleu’s events, projects, and publications.
• Adapt audiovisual content to different communication channels and target audiences.

4. Institutional Communication and Publication Enhancement

• Assist with layout design and editorial follow-up of publications and reports produced by Plan Bleu experts using Adobe InDesign.
• Ensure graphic and editorial consistency across communication materials.
• Participate in the dissemination and promotion of studies, reports, and events to various stakeholders.
• Contribute to coordinating communication actions with internal teams and partners.

5. Monitoring, Coordination, and Cross-functional Support

• Conduct media and information monitoring on topics related to the environment, sustainable development, and the Mediterranean region.
• Prepare press reviews and identify relevant content for Plan Bleu teams and experts.
• Support the management of external service providers (quotation requests, coordination, relationship follow-up).
• Provide occasional logistical and communication support for events, workshops, and conferences.
• Contribute broadly to communication department projects and initiatives as needed.

4. Candidate Profile

The successful candidate will be enrolled in the first year of a Master’s degree in Communication or Marketing.

They should combine creativity with methodological rigor and demonstrate a strong interest in environmental protection and sustainable development issues.

Required Skills

• Excellent writing and summarizing skills in French
• Excellent command of both French and English, written and spoken (minimum C1 level)
• Good understanding of social media platforms and digital communication practices
• Good command of office tools (Microsoft 365, Google Workspace)
• Initial experience with or knowledge of visual and web content creation tools:
  • Canva
  • WordPress
  • Adobe InDesign
• Interest in institutional, environmental, and international communication

Desired Skills

• Knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro)
• Video editing skills and experience creating short-form social media content
• Understanding of SEO and web best practices
• Basic knowledge of web development or CMS management
• Previous experience in associations, institutions, or international environments would be appreciated
• Proficiency in another Mediterranean language (Arabic, Spanish, Italian, etc.) would be an asset

Personal Qualities

• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Attention to detail and rigor
• Creativity and proactive mindset
• Autonomy and initiative
• Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills
• Curiosity and interest in societal and environmental issues
• Ability to adapt within a multicultural environment

5. Apprenticeship Conditions

The apprentice will be based at Plan Bleu’s offices in Marseille for a 24-month contract starting in September 2026.

Gross salary will be determined according to the candidate’s age and level of study.

Additional benefits include:

• Meal vouchers worth €9.05 per working day (60% covered by Plan Bleu)
• Partial remote work possible (2 days per week)
• A pleasant working environment

6. Recruitment Process / Timeline

The position is to be filled no later than September 2026.

Please send your CV and cover letter before July 5, 2026, to: [email protected] and [email protected]

The selection process may include interviews (potentially conducted remotely), as well as a pre-selection phase followed by requests for additional information if necessary.

7. Diversity and Inclusion

Plan Bleu welcomes applicants from all backgrounds and nationalities, regardless of skin color, ethnicity, gender, or religion.

All applications will be reviewed without any form of discrimination.

Plan Bleu is continuously committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive working environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.