Finance Graduate Trainee – 2026
Illovo Sugar South Africa is looking for South‑African graduates who are not currently working. If you finished a degree or diploma in finance and want to start a career in a real production setting, this 12‑month trainee program could be a good fit. You’ll learn how to handle money matters in a busy factory, and you’ll get to work at our two mills in KwaZulu‑Natal – Eston Mill and Noodsberg Mill. The deadline to send your application is 21 November 2025.
Who is Illovo Sugar South Africa?
Illovo is one of the biggest and oldest sugar companies on the continent. It’s part of the larger Illovo Sugar Africa Group and does three main things:
- Grow crops – we grow sugar cane and other crops.
- Turn cane into sugar – we process the raw material at our mills.
- Send sugar to market – we handle marketing and distribution.
Besides making sugar, Illovo cares a lot about people and the planet. We try to use sustainable farming methods, help communities where we work, give people jobs, and offer training to new graduates. The Finance Graduate Trainee Programme is one way we support the next generation of finance experts.
What will you do in the programme?
The programme lasts a full year. It’s designed for recent graduates, especially those from historically disadvantaged backgrounds. You will:
- Work in the finance team and learn everyday financial tasks.
- See how a large manufacturing plant keeps its finances in order.
- Build skills that you can use anywhere – from budgeting and reporting to internal checks that keep the business running smoothly.
You’ll be placed at either Eston Mill or Noodsberg Mill, depending on where the team needs you. Every day you’ll see how money flows through a complex industrial operation.
What do you need to qualify?
Academic background
- A degree or diploma in finance.
- Honours is a bonus, but it isn’t required.
- If you’re a Certified Tax Accountant (CTA), that’s a plus.
Key skills
- You should stay calm when things get busy.
- You must know how to use Microsoft Office well.
- Knowing accounting software helps, but it’s not a must.
- Good communication and teamwork are essential.
Values that fit with Illovo
- Keep safety in mind at all times.
- Focus on doing things with quality.
- Work well with others.
- Communicate clearly and professionally.
- Respect everyone, no matter who they are.
Who should apply?
- If you’re a recent finance graduate and you belong to a previously disadvantaged group, this role is meant for you.
- If you want a clear path into finance and want to learn inside a large manufacturing company, the programme offers that.
- If you’re ready to grow, eager to learn, and want to start a solid career, this could be the first big step.
How to send your application
Send a clear email to Careers@illovo.co.za. Use the subject line Finance Graduate Trainee. Include the following:
- A detailed CV.
- Certified copies of your qualifications.
- A certified copy of your ID.
Make sure your email arrives on or before 21 November 2025.
You can also click the “Apply Now” button below to open an email draft that will automatically add the right address and subject. (Just click the button – no need to copy a link.)
Apply Now
mailto:Careers@illovo.co.za?subject=Finance%20Graduate%20Trainee
Why choose Illovo?
This is not just another internship. It gives you real work experience in a busy setting, teaches you the tools and habits that will help you in any finance job, and connects you to a company that values sustainability and community. After the year ends, you could stay with Illovo or carry the experience into any role you choose.
If you want to start your finance career in a place that offers hands‑on learning, teamwork, and a chance to make a difference, consider joining the Illovo Finance Graduate Trainee Programme. Make sure to send your application before the deadline – we’re looking forward to hearing from you!