At a Glance
- Tasks: Support startup research, project coordination, and event logistics in a dynamic innovation team.
- Company: Join the iconic luxury brand, Chanel, known for its commitment to innovation and excellence.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and exposure to corporate venture capital in a flexible work environment.
- Other info: 5-month internship based in London with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make an impact in the luxury industry while learning about startups and emerging technologies.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills, clear communication, and a proactive mindset are essential.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 30000 £ per year.
Location: London Headquarters, UK
Reports to: Startup Programs Lead, Open Innovation
Contract: 5-month fixed term contract
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Open Innovation team is a future-forward innovation ecosystem for CHANEL. Operating at the intersection of the organization and the wider world, we envision the road ahead for luxury and for CHANEL, fast-tracking potential responses through our network of investments and partnerships. We pressure-test these ideas both inside and outside CHANEL, enabling the House to create positive impact from leading-edge learnings and capabilities and to prepare its businesses for the future.
We are looking for a motivated Intern to join our Open Innovation team in London, reporting to the Startup Programs Lead. This is a hands-on support role spanning startup research, project coordination, and event logistics. You will gain direct exposure to how a global luxury house identifies, evaluates, and engages with innovative startups and emerging technologies.
IMPACT YOU CAN CREATE AT CHANEL
In this role, you will provide day-to-day support across four key areas: Startup Research & Investment Support, Startup Scouting Projects, Program Coordination, and Innovation Events. Responsibilities include:
- Startup Research & Investment Support
- Help prepare materials for regular team meetings, including consolidating updates and sourcing relevant content.
- Research startups and emerging companies across our focus areas using research platforms (e.g., PitchBook) and wider networks.
- Conduct initial reviews of incoming startup opportunities, summarising key information for the team.
- Keep our startup tracking database accurate and up to date.
- Startup Scouting Projects
- Support dedicated scouting projects by tracking deadlines and deliverables.
- Conduct initial research and screening of startups to support project needs.
- Program Coordination
- Help keep internal programs on track by managing timelines and flagging upcoming milestones.
- Support with operational tasks such as preparing onboarding materials, updating documents, and building presentations.
- Innovation Events
- Assist with event planning and execution, including managing invite lists, sending invitations, and coordinating logistics.
YOU ARE ENERGISED BY
- Helping to contribute to an organizational culture that embraces innovation.
- Being exposed to new technologies, ways of working, trends and future disruptions in the worlds of luxury, retail, and client experience.
- Researching startups, new technologies, and innovation trends with genuine curiosity.
- Organising information clearly and keeping projects and timelines running smoothly.
- Contributing to a small, high-impact team where your work is visible and valued.
- Learning how a global organisation identifies and engages with promising startups.
- Working in a fast-paced environment that blends strategic thinking with hands-on execution.
WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE TEAM
- Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
- Clear written and verbal communication skills in English.
- Comfort with research tasks and an ability to synthesise information concisely.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (particularly PowerPoint and Excel); familiarity with project management tools and startup research platforms is a plus.
- A proactive, self-starter mindset — comfortable taking initiative and asking questions.
- Interest in startups, venture capital, innovation, or the luxury industry.
- Some prior exposure to venture capital, startups, or innovation teams (e.g., through coursework, a previous internship, a university group, or personal projects) is a strong plus.
POSITION LOGISTICS
- Currently enrolled in or recently completed a university degree.
- Full-time internship, 5 months duration.
- Position based in London, flexibly hybrid work environment.
WHAT YOU WILL LEARN AND EXPERIENCE
- Direct exposure to corporate venture capital and startup engagement.
- Regular interaction with senior team members, external startups, and innovation partners.
- Practical experience in startup research, project coordination, and event execution.
- The opportunity to develop professional skills in a supportive, entrepreneurial environment.
- Mentorship and guidance from experienced team members throughout your internship.
At Chanel, we are focused on creating an inclusive culture that nurtures personal growth, contributing to collective progress. We believe the uniqueness of each individual increases the diversity, complementarity, and effectiveness of our teams. We strongly encourage your application, as we value the perspective, experience, and potential you could bring to Chanel.
Intern, Open Innovation employer: Chanel, Inc.
Chanel is an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of innovation and inclusivity, providing interns with hands-on experience in the dynamic world of luxury and technology. Located in London, our supportive environment encourages personal growth and offers mentorship from experienced professionals, ensuring that every team member's contributions are valued and impactful. With opportunities to engage directly with startups and participate in exciting projects, this internship is a unique chance to develop your skills in a globally renowned organisation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Intern, Open Innovation
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with alumni from your university. You never know who might have a lead on an internship or can give you insider tips.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values and how they align with yours. This will help you stand out and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to get comfortable with common questions. This will boost your confidence and help you articulate your thoughts clearly during the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're proactive and serious about landing that internship with us at Chanel.
We think you need these skills to ace Intern, Open Innovation
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for innovation and startups shine through. We want to see that you’re genuinely excited about the role and how it fits into the luxury industry.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experiences, especially any research or project coordination work. We love seeing how your background aligns with what we do at Chanel, so don’t hold back!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for our Open Innovation team. Be specific about your skills and experiences, and connect them to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently, plus you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chanel, Inc.
✨Research the Company and Role
Before your interview, dive deep into CHANEL's Open Innovation team and understand their mission. Familiarise yourself with their recent projects and how they engage with startups. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you tailor your answers to align with their values.
✨Prepare Your Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, team dynamics, and future projects. This demonstrates your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the internship aligns with your career goals.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Given the role's focus on project coordination and event logistics, be ready to discuss your organisational skills. Share specific examples from past experiences where you successfully managed timelines or coordinated events, highlighting your attention to detail.
✨Demonstrate Your Curiosity
CHANEL values innovation and curiosity. Be prepared to discuss your interest in startups and emerging technologies. Share any relevant research or personal projects that showcase your proactive mindset and eagerness to learn more about the luxury industry.
