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

Clicks Group is offering unemployed South African graduates the chance to gain valuable experience through its United Pharmaceutical Distributors (UPD) Graduate Programme for 2026/2027. This 12-month programme is designed for those with relevant diplomas or degrees who are looking for their first work experience in the pharmaceutical wholesale and distribution sector. Successful candidates will be based at UPD’s Lea Glen and Rand Leases branches in Johannesburg.

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 Clicks Group UPD Graduate Programme is a fixed-term contract opportunity aimed at developing young talent within the pharmaceutical wholesale and distribution industry. This programme provides graduates with practical, on-the-job experience across various departments within United Pharmaceutical Distributors. It is a structured learning initiative, supported by the W&R SETA, designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and the professional world.

The programme focuses on equipping graduates with essential skills and knowledge in areas such as operations, supply chain, finance, human resources, and logistics. Participants will work under the guidance of departmental managers, gaining exposure to real-world business challenges and contributing to the company’s operations. This is an excellent entry-level opportunity for graduates seeking to build a career in a dynamic sector.

About Clicks Group

Clicks Group is a leading health and beauty retail group in Southern Africa. The group operates a diversified portfolio of retail brands and services, with Clicks pharmacies being a prominent part of its offering. United Pharmaceutical Distributors (UPD) is a key business unit within the Clicks Group, specializing in the wholesale and distribution of pharmaceutical and healthcare products. UPD plays a critical role in ensuring that pharmacies and healthcare providers have access to the necessary medicines and health products.

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 ensure their completed qualification aligns with one of the advertised disciplines to be considered for placement.

What the Graduate Programme Offers

Successful candidates in the Clicks Group UPD Graduate Programme can expect to gain significant benefits, including:

• Valuable workplace experience in the pharmaceutical distribution sector.
• Exposure to diverse business functions like warehouse operations, inventory management, and supply chain processes.
• Opportunities to learn about financial administration, human resources, and training coordination.
• Insight into logistics, distribution, and customer-account support.
• Development of essential professional skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
• A market-related stipend for the duration of the 12-month contract.
• Potential exposure to infrastructure projects and sales administration.

Programme Duration and Location

This is a 12-month fixed-term contract programme. The internships will be based at the United Pharmaceutical Distributors branches located in Lea Glen and Rand Leases, Roodepoort, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa.

Minimum Requirements

To be eligible for the Clicks Group 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 or Matric.
• Have successfully completed an eligible diploma or degree relevant to the available opportunities.
• Be currently unemployed.
• Have no prior formal work experience.
• Be available to commit to the full 12-month programme.
• Be willing to work at the specified Johannesburg branches.

Operations and Warehouse Management Qualifications

Graduates with a BCom in Supply Chain Management, Bachelor of Logistics, BBA in Logistics, BCom in Operations Management, or another relevant Warehouse Management qualification are encouraged to apply for these roles.

Finance Degree Qualifications

Applicants holding a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance, BCom Financial Management, Bachelor of Accounting, or Bachelor of Commerce in Economics are eligible for finance-related positions.

Logistics and Supply Chain Qualifications

For logistics and supply chain roles, eligible qualifications include a BCom Logistics and Supply Chain Management, BCom Supply Chain Management, Bachelor of Logistics, or BBA in Logistics.

Human Resources and Learning & Development Qualifications

A Diploma in Human Resource Management is required for opportunities in Human Resources, Learning and Development, and Training.

Finance Diploma Qualifications

Graduates with a Diploma in Financial Management, Diploma in Accounting, Diploma in Cost and Management Accounting, Diploma in Internal Auditing, or Diploma in Banking can apply for finance positions.

Infrastructure Qualifications

Those interested in infrastructure roles must have completed a diploma in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Building, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Infrastructure Management.

Key Account Management Qualifications

For Key Account Management positions, applicants should possess a diploma in Marketing Management, Business Management, Sales Management, or Retail Business Management.

Competencies Required

Successful candidates will need to demonstrate a range of skills and personal qualities, including:

• Good communication skills
• Computer literacy
• Ability to work effectively in a team
• Strong attention to detail
• Good organisational ability
• Effective time management
• A willingness to learn and adapt
• Professional conduct at all times
• Problem-solving skills
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment
• Customer-service awareness
• Reliability and accountability

Who Should Apply?

This graduate programme is ideal for unemployed South African graduates who have recently completed their studies and are eager to gain practical experience in the pharmaceutical wholesale and distribution industry. It is particularly suited for individuals who are motivated, detail-oriented, and ready to contribute to a dynamic team environment. If you have completed an eligible qualification and are looking for an opportunity to kick-start your career, this programme offers a solid foundation.

Required Documents

Applicants are advised to prepare the following documents for their application:

• An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) clearly stating unemployment and lack of previous formal work experience.
• A copy of your South African identity document.
• A copy of your Matric certificate.
• Certified copies of your completed qualification(s).
• A complete academic transcript.
• Any additional documents specifically requested on the application portal.

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

Ensure that you 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 will not be considered.
• Applicants must ensure they meet all the minimum requirements before applying.
• This programme is designated as an Employment Equity opportunity, and appointments will be made in line with Clicks Group’s Employment Equity requirements.
• Please double-check your contact details on your CV to ensure you can be reached.

Closing Date

The application closing date for the Clicks Group UPD Graduate Programme 2026/2027 is 22 July 2026. It is advisable to submit your application well before this date to avoid any last-minute issues.

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