Pepkor Lifestyle Retail, one of South Africa’s largest and most respected wholesale & retail groups, is inviting applications for its Graduate Internship Programme (12 months) and TVET Work‑Integrated Learning Experience (18 months), fully funded by the Wholesale & Retail SETA.
This opportunity offers degree, diploma and TVET graduates a chance to gain hands‑on experience across retail operations, sharpen professional skills, and begin building a leadership path in retail.
Who Should Apply
This graduate opportunity is aimed at young, vibrant South Africans who meet the following criteria:
- Educational Qualifications: Degree or diploma in one of the following:
- Marketing Management
- Business Management / Business Administration
- Human Resource Management / Industrial Psychology
- Digital Marketing / E‑commerce
- Project Administration / Project Management
- Information Technology / Business Information Systems
- For TVET Graduates: Those who have studied at accredited TVET Colleges or Higher Education Institutions and are available for the full 18‑month practical learning experience.
- Citizenship & Age: Must be a South African citizen, holder of a valid SA ID, unemployed, and younger than 32 years.
- Other Requirements:
- Ability to learn quickly, adaptability and resilience.
- Initiative‑taking and good judgment in analyzing information.
- Strong presentation, verbal and written communication skills.
- Able to work both independently and as part of a team.
- High standard of work ethic.
- Understanding of customer service, and ability to maintain good working relationships.
What the Programme Offers
Pepkor Lifestyle promises more than just a role – it offers structured development and real exposure. Key features include:
- Structured Workplace Experience: Graduates are onboarded and inducted, then rotated across different functions/stores to gain broad exposure.
- Mentorship & Support: Access to senior employees and professional leaders who will assist with professional growth and feedback.
- Project Work & Research: Participation in research, trend‑analysis (technology, best practices), making presentations and helping drive business objectives.
- Career Growth Prospects: Exciting future opportunities within Pepkor’s brands, with chances to move into more senior operational or specialist roles.
Key Responsibilities
While roles will vary depending on qualification and department, typical responsibilities include:
- Attend all induction and onboarding meetings to understand the company’s operations and functions.
- Perform research into trends, new technologies, and industry best practices.
- Visit different Pepkor Lifestyle stores to gain hands‑on experience.
- Prepare presentations and reports for evaluation.
- Execute tasks under supervision, plus additional responsibilities as needed to meet business goals.
How to Apply
Candidates interested in this opportunity should prepare to submit:
- An updated CV
- Certified copies (not older than three months) of:
- South African ID
- Certificate / qualification(s)
- Transcript or tertiary results
Applications will be given first consideration when documents are fully submitted and certified.
Why This Internship Matters
This programme represents a meaningful stepping stone for entrants into the retail sector. Graduates will leave with:
- Practical, real‐world skills across multiple retail functions
- Improved confidence, presentation, and communication abilities
- A clearer idea of where in the retail business they might specialise or grow
For Pepkor Lifestyle, the programme helps build diversity, refresh the organisation with new perspectives, and foster future leaders who understand ground realities in stores, digital channels, and customer service.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application opens | 14 September 2025 |
| Application closes | 30 September 2025 |
| Duration (Degree / Diploma Graduates) | 12 months |
| Duration (TVET Graduates) | 18 months |
Candidate Traits That Stand Out
Pepkor Lifestyle is looking not only for qualifications, but for character and potential. Those who show:
- Curiosity and willingness to learn
- Resilience when facing challenges
- Good interpersonal skills
- Clean, professional presentation
- Strong internal motivation to contribute
Check also: Ecotel Internship Programme (2026)
For graduates aiming to launch a meaningful career in retail, operations, digital, HR, or business management, this opportunity with Pepkor Lifestyle presents more than just a job: it offers a foundation. The structured learning, exposure, mentorship and the chance to influence real work make it a valuable platform. Eligible applicants should apply before the 30 September 2025 closing date to avoid missing out.