Clicks Group is urgently looking for unemployed South African graduates to join the United Pharmaceutical Distributors (UPD) Graduate Programme 2026/2027. This chance can kick‑start your career in the pharmaceutical distribution sector, and the deadline is fast approaching – 22 July 2026. Clicks Group wants fresh talent ready to learn and grow.
What is the UPD Graduate Programme?
The programme runs for 12 months under the W&R SETA Graduate Programme. It is a fixed‑term contract with market‑related pay. You will work at the UPD branches in Lea Glen and Rand Leases, Roodepoort, Johannesburg (Gauteng). Graduates are placed in Operations, Administration or related business units and report to the relevant manager.
Who can apply?
You must meet all of the following:
- Age 18‑35 years
- Matric (Grade 12) completed
- Hold an eligible diploma or degree in one of the fields listed below
- Be currently unemployed and have no prior formal work experience
- Be able to commit to the full 12‑month programme
- Willing to work at the Johannesburg branches
Relevant qualifications
Operations, Warehouse Management & Supply Chain
- BCom in Supply Chain Management
- Bachelor of Logistics
- BBA in Logistics
- BCom in Operations Management
- Other recognised Warehouse Management qualifications
Finance
- BCom in Finance or Financial Management
- Bachelor of Accounting
- BCom in Economics
- Diploma in Financial Management, Accounting, Cost & Management Accounting, Internal Auditing or Banking
Logistics & Supply Chain
- BCom Logistics and Supply Chain Management
- BCom Supply Chain Management
- Bachelor of Logistics
- BBA in Logistics
Human Resources & Learning & Development
- Diploma in Human Resource Management (covers both HR and L&D)
Infrastructure
- Diploma in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Building, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or Infrastructure Management
Key Account Management
- Diploma in Marketing Management, Business Management, Sales Management or Retail Business Management
What will you gain?
The programme gives you hands‑on experience in the pharmaceutical wholesale industry. Depending on your placement you may work with:
- Warehouse and inventory operations
- Supply‑chain and logistics processes
- Financial administration and reporting
- Human resources and training coordination
- Infrastructure projects and maintenance
- Key account support and sales administration
- General office administration
You will also develop core workplace skills such as communication, teamwork, problem solving, time management, and customer‑service awareness.
How to apply (step‑by‑step)
- Gather the required documents:
- Updated CV (state that you are unemployed and have no prior work experience)
- South African ID copy
- Matric certificate
- Certified copies of your diploma/degree
- Full academic transcript
- Any other files requested on the portal
- Visit the official Clicks Group careers portal: Apply for the UPD Graduate Programme 2026/2027
- Enter the programme title “UPD Graduate Programme 2026 – Lea Glen and Rand Leases” and the listing reference “click_025716”.
- Complete the online application form, upload all documents, and double‑check that every field is correct.
- Submit before the closing date, 22 July 2026.
Tips to improve your chances
- Tailor your CV to the specific discipline you are applying for; match your qualification exactly.
- Proofread your CV and all uploaded files – spelling errors can hurt first impressions.
- Use clear headings in your CV (Education, Skills, Contact) and keep it to two pages.
- Highlight any voluntary work, projects or internships that show relevant skills.
- Show genuine interest in the pharmaceutical sector in your cover letter or personal statement.
- Ensure your contact details (phone, email) are up‑to‑date and professional.
- Submit early – applications received after the deadline or with missing documents are usually rejected.
Next steps
If you meet the criteria, prepare your documents and apply today. Remember, the programme is competitive and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Use the time before 22 July to perfect your application. Good luck – this could be the first step toward a rewarding career with Clicks Group and United Pharmaceutical Distributors.
