Lesaka Technologies is recruiting for its APEX Graduate Programme 2027, an 18-month development programme based in Johannesburg where successful candidates are permanent employees from day one. If you have a relevant qualification in technology, finance or operations and an academic average of at least 75%, you can apply, and final-year students are considered too. Applications close on 30 October 2026.
About the Lesaka APEX Graduate Programme 2027
Lesaka Technologies is a fintech company that provides payment, banking and business services to consumers and small businesses across South Africa. Its customers include people and merchants that traditional banks often serve poorly, which makes fintech work directly relevant to financial inclusion.
APEX is Lesaka’s programme for people it describes as having the potential to become future leaders. Participants get a line manager and real deliverables from the start rather than a shadowing role. The programme covers exposure across functions, work with senior leaders, and development in commercial thinking, leadership, and AI and technology.
It ends with an executive-sponsored business challenge, a recommendation to senior leadership, and a community contribution. Roles are grouped into three streams: Technology, Finance and Operations.
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Streams and What You Will Learn
- Technology stream: Cybersecurity Analyst, Data Analyst, Developer/Business Analyst, AI/Automation Engineer, Security Operations Analyst
- Finance stream: Group Accountant, Finance Sales Analyst, Junior Finance Analyst, Junior Insights Analyst, Risk Analyst
- Operations stream: Operations and Projects Graduate, Commercial Strategy Analyst, Junior Commercial Decision Analyst, Fraud Risk Analyst
- Exposure across functions and work with senior leaders
- Development in commercial thinking, leadership, and AI and technology
- Salary: confirmed during the application process
Who Can Apply (Eligibility)
- A minimum academic average of 75%
- A relevant qualification in Technology, Finance or Operations
- Final-year students can apply
- No previous fintech experience required
- Evidence of leadership from university, work, community or entrepreneurial activity
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
- Willingness to adapt and work across functions and businesses
- Able to work in Johannesburg, Gauteng
Required Documents
- Updated CV
- Academic transcript
- Copies of completed qualifications or certificates, where applicable
How to Apply
- Choose the stream that matches your qualification: Technology, Finance or Operations.
- Open the Lesaka vacancy on the official recruitment portal.
- Create a profile and complete the application form.
- Upload your CV, transcript and any completed certificates.
- Submit before 30 October 2026. Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Closing Date
The closing date for Lesaka APEX Graduate Programme 2027 is 30 October 2026. No late applications will be accepted.
Why It Matters
Graduate unemployment is one of South Africa’s hardest problems. Many degree holders spend years searching for a first job because employers ask for experience that graduates cannot get without a job.
A programme that offers a permanent contract from day one removes that barrier. You earn while you rotate through the business, and you leave with experience that fintech, banking and consulting employers recognise.
The 75% average is a firm filter, so check your transcript before you apply. If you are still in your final year, your latest results will be what counts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need fintech experience?
No. Lesaka states that previous fintech experience is not required.
Can final-year students apply?
Yes, final-year students will be considered.
Is the role permanent?
Yes. Successful candidates are permanent employees from day one of the 18-month programme.
