Clicks Group UPD Graduate Internships 2026/2027: Gain Experience in Pharmaceutical Distribution

Clicks Group is offering unemployed South African graduates the chance to join its United Pharmaceutical Distributors (UPD) Graduate Programme for 2026/2027. This 12-month programme provides valuable workplace experience in the pharmaceutical wholesale and distribution sector. It is designed for recent graduates with diplomas or degrees who have no prior work experience and are looking to start their careers.

Application Closing Date: 22 July 2026
Location: Lea Glen and Rand Leases, Roodepoort, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
Programme Duration: 12 months
Stipend: Market-related
Minimum Qualification: Matric and an eligible Diploma or Degree
Opportunity Type: Graduate Internship

About the Clicks Group UPD Graduate Programme

The United Pharmaceutical Distributors (UPD) Graduate Programme is a 12-month fixed-term contract aimed at developing unemployed graduates. This initiative, supported by the W&R SETA, focuses on providing practical, hands-on experience within the operations and administration departments of UPD. Successful candidates will gain exposure to various aspects of the pharmaceutical supply chain and distribution process. The programme is structured to offer learning and development opportunities, helping graduates build a foundation for future career growth.

About Clicks Group

Clicks Group is a leading health and beauty retailer in Southern Africa. Its business units include retail pharmacies, health and beauty stores, and pharmaceutical wholesale and distribution. United Pharmaceutical Distributors (UPD) is a key part of the Clicks Group, specializing in supplying pharmaceutical and healthcare products to pharmacies and healthcare providers. UPD plays a critical role in the healthcare supply chain through its extensive warehousing, logistics, and distribution services.

Available Graduate Opportunities

Graduates can be placed in various business areas within UPD, depending on their qualifications and the company’s needs. These areas include:

• Operations and Supply Chain
• Infrastructure
• Finance
• Human Resources
• Learning and Development
• Training
• Key Account Management
• Warehouse Management
• Logistics

Applicants should apply for opportunities that directly match their completed qualification to ensure a good fit for the programme.

What the Graduate Programme Offers

This graduate programme is designed to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge for the pharmaceutical distribution industry. Successful candidates can expect to gain:

• Practical workplace experience in a fast-paced environment.
• Exposure to warehouse operations and inventory management.
• Understanding of supply chain processes and logistics.
• Experience in financial administration or human resources functions.
• Insight into infrastructure projects or training coordination.
• Opportunities to develop customer-account support and sales administration skills.
• Exposure to business reporting and office administration.
• A market-related remuneration package.

Programme Duration and Location

The UPD Graduate Programme runs for a period of 12 months. Successful applicants will be based at the UPD Lea Glen and Rand Leases branches, located in Roodepoort, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa. This location provides a central hub for learning and experiencing the core operations of the business.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for the UPD Graduate Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a South African citizen.
• Be between 18 and 35 years old.
• Have completed Grade 12 (Matric).
• Possess an eligible diploma or degree relevant to the available opportunities.
• Be currently unemployed.
• Have no previous formal work experience.
• Be available to commit to the full 12-month programme.
• Be willing to work at the specified Johannesburg branches.

Competencies Required

Successful candidates will need to demonstrate a range of skills and personal qualities to thrive in this programme. These include:

• Good communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Computer literacy, including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Good organizational ability and time management skills.
• A willingness to learn and adapt to new challenges.
• Professional conduct and a positive attitude.
• Problem-solving skills to address operational issues.
• Customer-service awareness and a helpful demeanor.
• Reliability and accountability in all tasks.

Who Should Apply?

This graduate programme is ideal for unemployed South African youth who have recently completed their studies and are eager to gain practical experience in the pharmaceutical wholesale and distribution sector. If you have an eligible diploma or degree, are between 18 and 35 years old, and are looking for an opportunity to kick-start your career with a reputable company, this programme is for you. It is particularly suited for individuals interested in operations, logistics, finance, HR, or related fields within a dynamic business environment.

Required Documents

Applicants are required to prepare and submit the following documents:

• An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) clearly stating your unemployed status and lack of previous formal work experience.
• A copy of your South African identity document.
• A copy of your Grade 12 (Matric) certificate.
• Certified copies of your completed diploma or degree qualification.
• A complete academic transcript for your qualification.
• Any additional documents as may be requested on the application portal.

Ensure all documents are clear, legible, and submitted as per the application instructions.

How to Apply

Applications for the Clicks Group UPD Graduate Programme 2026/2027 must be submitted online through the official Clicks Group careers platform.

Click here to apply for Clicks Group UPD Graduate Programme 2026/2027

When applying, please use the following details to identify the programme:
Programme title: UPD Graduate Programme 2026 – Lea Glen and Rand Leases
Listing reference: click_025716

Complete the online application form accurately and upload all required documents before the closing date.

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment.
• Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.
• Applicants must ensure they meet all minimum requirements before applying.
• The programme is designated as an Employment Equity opportunity, and appointments will be made in line with Clicks Group’s Employment Equity requirements.
• Please confirm that your chosen field aligns with your qualification and career aspirations.

Closing Date

The closing date for applications for the Clicks Group UPD Graduate Programme 2026/2027 is 22 July 2026. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications well before this date to avoid any last-minute issues.

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