Clicks Group UPD Graduate Programme 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 open to graduates with relevant diplomas or degrees who have no prior work experience and are between 18 and 35 years old.

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, Diploma or Degree
Opportunity Type: Graduate Programme

About the Clicks Group UPD Graduate Programme

The United Pharmaceutical Distributors (UPD) Graduate Programme is a structured 12-month initiative designed to equip unemployed graduates with practical skills and industry knowledge. This programme is part of the W&R SETA initiative, focusing on developing talent within the wholesale and retail sector, specifically in pharmaceutical distribution. Successful candidates will gain exposure to various business areas within UPD, contributing to their professional growth and career development.

This programme aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and the demands of the professional world. It offers a hands-on experience in a fast-paced environment, allowing graduates to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges. The focus is on operational and administrative functions within the pharmaceutical supply chain.

About Clicks Group

Clicks Group is a leading health and beauty retailer in Southern Africa. Through its various business units, including United Pharmaceutical Distributors (UPD), the group plays a significant role in the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors. UPD is a major pharmaceutical wholesaler, providing essential medicines and healthcare products to pharmacies and healthcare providers across South Africa.

Available Graduate Opportunities

Graduates can be placed in several business areas within UPD, depending on their qualifications. Applicants should apply for opportunities that align with their completed studies. Available areas include:

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

What the Learnership Offers

The Clicks Group UPD Graduate Programme offers a comprehensive learning experience. Successful candidates can expect to gain:

• Practical workplace experience in the pharmaceutical wholesale and distribution industry.
• Exposure to warehouse operations, inventory management, and supply chain processes.
• Understanding of logistics and distribution networks.
• Experience in financial administration and human resources functions.
• Insights into training coordination and infrastructure projects.
• Support for customer-account management and sales administration.
• Opportunities to develop business reporting and office administration skills.
• A fixed-term contract for 12 months.

Programme Duration and Location

This is a 12-month fixed-term contract. The programme will be based at the UPD branches located in Lea Glen and Rand Leases, Roodepoort, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa. Successful candidates must be available to work at these locations for the full duration of the programme.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered 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 (Matric).
• Have completed an eligible diploma or degree.
• Be currently unemployed.
• Have no previous formal work experience.
• Be available for the full 12-month programme.
• Be willing to work at the specified Johannesburg branches.

Specific qualifications are required for different business areas. For Operations, Warehouse Management, and Supply Chain, a BCom in Supply Chain Management, Bachelor of Logistics, BBA in Logistics, BCom in Operations Management, or a relevant Warehouse Management qualification is needed. Finance roles require a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance, BCom Financial Management, Bachelor of Accounting, or BCom in Economics. For Logistics and Supply Chain, a BCom Logistics and Supply Chain Management, BCom Supply Chain Management, Bachelor of Logistics, or BBA in Logistics is suitable. Human Resources and Learning and Development roles require a Diploma in Human Resource Management. Finance Diploma roles include Diploma in Financial Management, Diploma in Accounting, Diploma in Cost and Management Accounting, Diploma in Internal Auditing, or Diploma in Banking. Infrastructure roles need diplomas in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Building, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Infrastructure Management. Key Account Management roles require a diploma in Marketing Management, Business Management, Sales Management, or Retail Business Management.

Competencies Required

Applicants should demonstrate a range of skills and personal qualities to succeed in this programme. These include:

• 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 work 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 sector. It is particularly suited for individuals looking to build a career in operations, supply chain, finance, HR, or logistics. If you are a motivated individual with a strong academic background and a desire to learn, this programme offers a great starting point.

Required Documents

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

• An updated CV that clearly states your unemployment status 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 qualifications (diploma or degree).
• A complete academic transcript.
• Any additional documents specifically requested on the application portal.

Ensure all documents are clear, legible, and submitted as per the 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, use the programme title “UPD Graduate Programme 2026 – Lea Glen and Rand Leases” and the 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 will not be considered.
• Applicants must ensure they meet all minimum requirements before applying.
• Appointments will be made in line with Clicks Group’s Employment Equity requirements.
• Ensure your CV includes up-to-date contact details.
• Double-check that you have selected a field aligned with your qualification.

Closing Date

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

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