Coca-Cola Beverages Africa Launches 2026 Training Graduate Programme, offering nationwide rotational placements, leadership development, and career-shaping opportunities across the FMCG sector.
Overview
Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA), the continent’s largest Coca-Cola bottler and one of the biggest beverage companies in the world, has officially opened applications for its 2026 Ascend Leaders in Training Programme. This highly competitive graduate internship aims to develop the next generation of business and operations leaders who will help drive CCBA’s mission to refresh Africa and support sustainable growth across 14 African markets.
CCBA accounts for over 40% of all Coca-Cola beverages sold in Africa, employs more than 14,000 people, and serves over 800,000 customers. Through this programme, graduates gain exposure to diverse business functions, build hands-on industry experience, and develop leadership skills aligned with the company’s values of integrity, curiosity, collaboration, and innovation.
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Programme Benefits for Coca-Cola Beverages Africa Launches 2026 Training Graduate Programme
Multi-Department Rotations
Graduates rotate across several key business areas, including Operations, Engineering, Commercial, Supply Chain, Finance, HR, and more—gaining a deep understanding of the FMCG value chain.
Leadership Development
The programme integrates structured learning modules, coaching, performance reviews, and mentorship from senior CCBA leaders to build strong leadership capacity.
Real-World Project Participation
Participants engage in impactful projects that contribute directly to organisational strategy, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
Mentorship From Industry Experts
Each graduate is paired with experienced leaders who provide career guidance, professional insights, and personalised development support.
Exposure Across African Markets
With operations in 14 countries, CCBA provides a unique environment to develop skills relevant across diverse cultural, commercial, and operational settings.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Graduates selected for the programme will:
- Participate in rotations across multiple business units.
- Analyse business challenges and propose data-driven solutions.
- Support project teams with research, planning, and implementation.
- Demonstrate leadership qualities through initiative, teamwork, and accountability.
- Adapt quickly to fast-paced environments and evolving priorities.
- Continuously seek feedback, reflect on performance, and develop professionally.
What CCBA Looks for in Candidates
Behaviours
- Courage to embrace feedback and change.
- Curiosity, optimism, and a growth mindset.
- Strong teamwork and excellent people skills.
- Ability to remain resilient in pressure-filled environments.
Core Competencies
- Impact-Driven: Achieves results under new and challenging circumstances.
- Fast-Paced: Thrives in high-energy, dynamic settings.
- Influential: Motivated to shape processes and outcomes.
- Challenge-Seeker: Enjoys variety and collaborative problem-solving.
- Independent: Works effectively with minimal supervision.
- Empathetic & Inclusive: Helps create positive team environments.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the 2026 Ascend Leaders in Training Programme, applicants must have:
- An undergraduate degree completed within the last two years.
- Strong academic performance and leadership involvement.
- Experience with MS Office and strong English communication skills.
- A track record of extracurricular participation, volunteering, or student leadership.
Programme Highlights
- Nationwide placements across several provinces.
- Sector-leading training in one of Africa’s fastest-growing FMCG environments.
- Opportunities to contribute to high-impact projects.
- A structured pathway designed to shape future CCBA leaders.
- A commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equal employment opportunities.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for the CCBA 2026 Leaders in Training Programme:
- Visit the official CCBA careers portal.
- Search for the Ascend Leaders in Training / Graduate Internship listing.
- Create a CCBA careers account or log in.
- Upload your CV, academic records, ID, and all supporting documents.
- Ensure each document is uploaded to the correct section.
- Submit your application before the deadline listed on the careers page.
Important:
Coca-Cola Beverages Africa does not accept emailed applications or agency submissions.
APPLY NOW
For more opportunities like these, be sure to follow us on Facebook, join our WhatsApp Group and Channel, and connect with us on LinkedIn, and Follow our Twitter Page.
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Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | CCBA 2026 Ascend Leaders in Training |
| Company | Coca-Cola Beverages Africa |
| Job Type | Graduate Internship |
| Location | Nationwide (South Africa & other CCBA regions) |
| Eligibility | Recent graduates (within 2 years) |
| Required Skills | Leadership, teamwork, MS Office, communication |
| Experience | Leadership roles, extracurricular involvement |
| Rotations | Operations, Supply Chain, Finance, HR, Commercial |
| Duration | Structured multi-phase rotational programme |
FAQs
1. Is this a paid internship?
Yes. Compensation details are provided during the recruitment process.
2. Can non-South Africans apply?
Yes. CCBA operates across 14 countries, and opportunities vary by location. Eligibility depends on local recruitment needs.
3. Do I need work experience?
No formal experience is required, but leadership roles and extracurricular activities are highly valued.
4. What degree fields are accepted?
Any recognised undergraduate degree, as long as the applicant shows strong leadership potential and interest in FMCG.
5. When does the programme start?
Start dates vary by location but generally align with the 2026 intake timeline published by CCBA.
Keywords
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