Clicks Group Graduate Internships: Your Path to a Career in Pharmaceutical Distribution

Are you a recent graduate in South Africa looking for a valuable opportunity to gain practical experience? The Clicks Group, through its United Pharmaceutical Distributors (UPD) division, is offering a 12-month graduate internship program for 2026/2027. This program is designed to equip graduates with real-world skills in operations and administration within the pharmaceutical wholesale and distribution sector. If you hold a relevant qualification and are eager to launch your career, this could be the perfect stepping stone.

Understanding the UPD Graduate Programme

The United Pharmaceutical Distributors (UPD) Graduate Programme is a 12-month workplace initiative. It aims to provide unemployed South African graduates with hands-on experience that aligns with their academic qualifications. UPD, a key part of the Clicks Group, operates in the pharmaceutical wholesale and distribution industry. The program offers placements in Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town, focusing on departments like Operations and Administration. This is a chance to apply your learning in a professional setting and build a foundation for a career in a dynamic sector.

Available Internship Opportunities by Location

The Clicks Group’s UPD Graduate Programme offers distinct opportunities across several key locations, each with specific departmental focuses. Understanding these differences can help you target your application effectively.

UPD Graduate Programme: Lea Glen and Rand Leases

This intake offers a broad range of opportunities across various business disciplines. Graduates with qualifications in Warehouse Management, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Operations Management, Finance, Accounting, Economics, Human Resources, Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Marketing Management, and Business Management can find suitable roles here. Specific roles include Warehouse Management, Finance, Logistics and Supply Chain, Human Resources, Training and Learning Development, Finance Diploma Opportunities, Infrastructure, and Key Account Management.

UPD Graduate Programme: Mahogany Ridge

The Mahogany Ridge program primarily targets graduates with qualifications in operations and supply chain management. If you have a diploma in fields such as Supply Chain Management, Logistics Management, Operations Management, Procurement and Supply, Business Management, Retail Business Management, Warehouse Management, Inventory and Stores Management, Production Management, or Industrial Engineering, this location might be ideal. The focus here is on warehousing, procurement, inventory control, and distribution operations.

UPD Graduate Programme: Montague Gardens

Montague Gardens provides opportunities in Operations, Supply Chain Management, Health and Safety, and Finance. Graduates with diplomas in Supply Chain Management, Logistics Management, Operations Management, Procurement and Supply, Business Management, Retail Business Management, Warehouse Management, Inventory and Stores Management, Production Management, Industrial Engineering, Health and Safety Management, Occupational Health and Safety, Financial Management, Accounting, Cost and Management Accounting, Internal Auditing, or Banking can apply. This location offers a well-rounded experience across critical business functions.

Who Should Apply for the Graduate Programme?

This program is best suited for recent graduates who are eager to gain practical work experience and build a career in the pharmaceutical distribution sector. Ideal candidates will have successfully completed a National Diploma or degree relevant to the roles advertised. They should be committed to participating in the full 12-month program and possess strong communication and teamwork skills. A willingness to learn and adapt in a fast-paced environment is also essential. Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply only for positions that directly match their completed qualifications.

What the Programme Offers Graduates

Successful interns will gain invaluable practical exposure within UPD’s Operations and Administration departments. Depending on the specific role, you could develop skills in areas such as warehouse operations, inventory control, supply chain processes, logistics and distribution, procurement, and finance administration. You might also gain experience in financial reporting, human resources, learning and development, infrastructure management, workplace health and safety, sales support, customer relationship management, and general business administration. This program is designed to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and professional practice.

Essential Skills for Applicants

Clicks Group looks for candidates who demonstrate a range of skills that are crucial for success in a professional environment. These include strong communication and interpersonal abilities, attention to detail, and analytical and problem-solving skills. Computer literacy, effective time-management, and the ability to work well in a team are also highly valued. Professional conduct, a willingness to learn, and the capacity to work under pressure are important attributes. Strong organizational skills will help you manage your responsibilities effectively throughout the internship.

Required Application Documents

To ensure your application is complete, you will need to prepare several documents. These typically include an updated Curriculum Vitae (CV), a copy of your South African identity document, and certified copies of your completed qualifications. You will also need your complete academic record and, where requested, proof of residence. Any additional relevant certificates and a motivation letter, if required by the application portal, should also be included. Ensure all documents are clear, legible, and submitted as per the application instructions.

How to Apply for Clicks Group Graduate Internships

Applying for the Clicks Group UPD Graduate Programme is done online. You will need to visit the Clicks Group careers portal and select the specific program and location that aligns with your qualifications. Make sure to carefully read the requirements for each position before submitting your application. It is advisable to apply well before the closing date to avoid any last-minute issues.

• Apply Online for the UPD Graduate Programme 2026 – Lea Glen & Rand Leases: https://careers.clicksgroup.co.za/applicant/index.php?controller=Listings&method=view&listingid=24e96b06-8973-4f7c-8fb3-6d050d74c90e
• Apply Online for the UPD Graduate Programme 2026 – (Mahogany Ridge): https://careers.clicksgroup.co.za/applicant/index.php?controller=Listings&method=view&listingid=d3d88215-007a-46fa-9411-aa6725b60693
• Apply Online for the UPD Graduate Programme 2026 (Montague Gardens): https://careers.clicksgroup.co.za/applicant/index.php?controller=Listings&method=view&listingid=43ee0b2a-f645-4416-9902-7e1528ef2981

Application Closing Date

All applications for the Clicks Group UPD Graduate Programme must be submitted by 21 July 2026. It is important to note that late or incomplete applications may not be considered. Submitting your application well in advance of the deadline is highly recommended.

Important Information for Applicants

Before submitting your application, please confirm a few key details to ensure you meet all requirements. Verify that your qualification matches the specific discipline advertised for the internship. Double-check that you are applying for the correct UPD location. Ensure your CV includes your most current contact information. Confirm that all necessary documents have been uploaded correctly. Finally, make sure you receive confirmation that your application has been successfully submitted before the closing date. Only candidates who are shortlisted will be contacted for further steps in the selection process.

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