Core Group, the official distributor of Apple in Sub-Saharan Africa, is offering a unique opportunity for a Marketing Management Graduate Programme to join its dynamic team at the iStore Head Office in Sandton, Gauteng. This 12-month contract role is designed for ambitious graduates who aspire to build a successful career in marketing and brand management.
Marketing Management Graduate Overview
- Location: Sandton, Gauteng
- Type: Contract (12 months)
- Division: iStore Head Office
- Industry: Marketing & Advertising
- Minimum Experience: Internship
About Core Group
As a leading distributor of world-renowned brands such as Apple, DJI, and Nintendo, Core Group has been shaping the technology and retail landscape across Sub-Saharan Africa since 1995. The company’s operations span multiple countries, including South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, and Nigeria, with expertise in supply chain management, marketing, enterprise sales, and media relations.
At its core, the group’s mission is to empower individuals and organisations through innovative technology solutions and to bring the world’s most loved tech brands closer to African consumers.
About the Opportunity
The Marketing Management Graduate Programme is a rare, high-exposure opportunity designed to accelerate career growth in one of the most fast-paced and inspiring business environments in South Africa.
The selected graduate will work closely with two of South Africa’s most iconic brands, Apple and iStore, under the direct mentorship of the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of iStore South Africa. Over 12 months, the candidate will gain hands-on experience in business strategy, brand management, and marketing operations.
Key Responsibilities
In this immersive learning journey, the graduate will:
- Collaborate with the Apple and iStore marketing teams, gaining first-hand experience in premium brand management.
- Shadow and support the CCO of iStore South Africa across strategic and operational projects.
- Contribute to the development of business and marketing strategies.
- Build practical skills in:
- Presentation and storytelling for impact
- Data visualisation and insights reporting
- Marketing messaging and campaign development
- Campaign and media strategy
- Work with the extended marketing team across multiple disciplines, including:
- Trade Marketing
- Digital Marketing
- Social Media Marketing
- Above-the-Line Campaigns
- Act as an extended arm of the CCO to support key organisational initiatives and ensure seamless execution.
This is a hands-on, mentorship-driven role aimed at developing a well-rounded marketing professional equipped to thrive in leadership positions.
Candidate Requirements
Core Group seeks an outstanding individual who meets the following criteria:
- A BCom or equivalent degree in Marketing Management, completed within the last three years.
- Graduate of a top South African university (e.g. UCT, Wits, Stellenbosch, UP, Rhodes, VEGA).
- Demonstrated academic excellence, ideally with Golden Key Society membership or other recognition.
- Proven leadership or community involvement, such as class representative roles or participation in student marketing societies.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong interest in marketing strategy, brand development, and digital communication.
- Ambitious, curious, and eager to grow into a future Marketing Manager.
What the Graduate Will Gain
The successful candidate will benefit from:
- Exposure to world-class marketing practices in a globally recognised tech ecosystem.
- Mentorship from senior executives and marketing professionals.
- Opportunities to work on live campaigns, activations, and strategic projects.
- An organisational culture that celebrates creativity, collaboration, and continuous learning.
This programme offers an unparalleled opportunity to gain practical experience with two industry-leading brands, while building a professional foundation that opens doors to future leadership roles within the marketing sector.
How to apply
Successful applicants will be subject to standard background checks, including criminal record verification, credit history, identity, matric certification, and references.
Core Group’s graduate programme offers more than just work experience, it provides an accelerated career pathway in one of South Africa’s most exciting industries. Graduates who join this programme will gain exposure to world-class marketing methodologies, strategic thinking, and brand storytelling at a global level.
Those who are passionate about marketing innovation, brand growth, and digital transformation will find this role an ideal stepping stone toward a high-impact career in the marketing field.
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