Graduate Programme: Diploma (W&R SETA Funded) Opportunity at Pepkor Lifestyle Nelspruit

Pepkor Lifestyle is inviting applications from suitably qualified, unemployed graduates for its 12-month Wholesale and Retail SETA (W&R SETA) funded Graduate Programme in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. This internship opportunity is aimed at young, motivated individuals who hold a Diploma in Logistics and Supply Chain and want to gain valuable practical experience in the wholesale, retail, logistics and supply chain sectors. The programme is designed to help graduates transition from academic learning into the workplace while developing the professional skills needed to build a successful career.

As part of Pepkor Lifestyle Logistics, successful candidates will gain structured workplace experience within one of South Africa’s largest wholesale and retail groups. The programme provides exposure to company operations, workplace processes, research activities and business projects. Graduates will also have opportunities to learn from experienced professionals, participate in induction programmes and visit different locations or stores to develop a better understanding of how the organisation operates.

The Pepkor Lifestyle Graduate Programme for Diploma graduates in Nelspruit is suited to candidates who are eager to learn, adaptable and willing to take initiative. Applicants should be able to analyse information, communicate effectively, work independently and collaborate with colleagues to achieve business objectives. The 12-month work-integrated learning experience also offers professional guidance, access to project resources and opportunities to develop skills that can support future career growth. Applications close on 27 October 2026, so eligible graduates should prepare their supporting documents and apply before the deadline.

Key Responsibilities

• Attend all required onboarding and induction programmes to learn about Pepkor Lifestyle’s business operations, departments and workplace procedures.
• Participate in meetings and learning sessions designed to introduce graduates to the different functions of the organisation.
• Complete assigned duties under the supervision and guidance of senior employees.
• Gain practical experience in logistics and supply chain operations through structured workplace learning.
• Participate in daily activities and projects that support the company’s operational and business objectives.
• Conduct research into developments, trends and opportunities relevant to different business functions.
• Research new technologies, industry practices and potential improvements that may be useful to the organisation.
• Document research findings, relevant trends and best practices to support knowledge sharing and business decision-making.
• Visit different company locations and retail stores to gain hands-on experience of workplace operations.
• Develop an understanding of the relationship between logistics, supply chain activities and the wider wholesale and retail business.
• Prepare and deliver presentations based on assigned projects, research findings or workplace activities.
• Demonstrate the ability to communicate information clearly and professionally during presentations and assessments.
• Analyse information critically and apply sound judgement when considering workplace challenges and possible solutions.
• Work effectively with colleagues and other stakeholders to support assigned activities and shared objectives.
• Build and maintain positive professional relationships with employees, supervisors and other team members.
• Take initiative when completing responsibilities and identify opportunities to learn new processes or improve performance.
• Adapt to changing tasks, workplace requirements and different learning environments throughout the programme.
• Contribute to customer service improvement by understanding how efficient operations support a positive customer experience.
• Demonstrate professionalism, accountability and a strong work ethic when completing assigned duties.
• Undertake additional responsibilities as requested to help achieve business objectives and broaden workplace exposure.

Requirements and Skills

• A Diploma in Logistics and Supply Chain from an accredited university or tertiary institution.
• Must be unemployed at the time of application.
• Must be a South African citizen.
• Must be in possession of a valid South African identity document.
• Must be under the age of 32.
• Candidates with and without disabilities are eligible to apply.
• Ability to learn quickly and understand new concepts, procedures and workplace systems.
• Resilience and adaptability when working in a changing business environment.
• Ability to take initiative, accept responsibility and approach assigned tasks proactively.
• Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills, including the ability to evaluate information and make sound decisions.
• Ability to work independently while also contributing effectively as part of a team.
• Good interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain professional working relationships.
• High standard of work ethic, professionalism and accountability.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong presentation skills and the ability to explain information clearly.
• Customer service awareness and an understanding of how operational efficiency can improve customer experiences.
• Willingness to participate in induction programmes, meetings, research activities, presentations and workplace visits.
• Openness to learning from senior employees and applying feedback to improve performance.
• Ability to organise tasks, follow instructions and meet assigned deadlines.
• Interest in developing a career in logistics, supply chain management, wholesale or retail operations.
• An updated CV must be submitted with the application.
• Certified copy of a valid South African ID, with certification dated no more than three months before submission.
• Certified copies of relevant certificates or qualifications, with certification dated no more than three months before submission.
• Certified copies of academic transcripts or tertiary results, with certification dated no more than three months before submission.

The 12-month W&R SETA-funded Graduate Programme at Pepkor Lifestyle Logistics in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, offers eligible Diploma graduates an opportunity to develop practical logistics and supply chain skills while learning from experienced professionals. Through structured workplace exposure, research, project participation and visits to company locations and stores, successful participants can build a stronger understanding of retail and supply chain operations and prepare for future career opportunities. Applicants must ensure that their CV, certified South African ID, qualifications and academic transcripts are included with their application, as candidates who successfully submit the required documents will receive first consideration. The closing date is 27 October 2026, and applications from candidates with and without disabilities are welcome.

Apply here