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Heineken invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for its Global Graduate Program – Commerce vacancies. The closing date for applications is 31 May 2026.
What the programme is about
Heineken’s Global Graduate Programme is a three‑year fast‑track for fresh graduates who want to become future leaders. Over 18 months you will rotate through three six‑month assignments inside the Commerce team, then finish with a management role. All placements are based in South Africa – either Stellenbosch, Durbanville or Sandton – with one assignment abroad to give you a real international feel.
Rotation 1 – Home‑base start
You begin in the Heineken operating company where you studied or live. Here you learn the basics of your function, the company’s strategy and its culture.
Rotation 2 – Cross‑functional experience
You stay in the same city but move to a different business area. This helps you see how the different parts of the company work together.
Rotation 3 – International stint
You spend six months in another country, learning how Heineken runs its business around the world and how to work with people from different cultures.
Landing role – Management start
After the three rotations you step into a junior manager position in your home city, putting everything you have learnt into practice every day.
Why you’ll love it
- Strong graduate community – Meet and learn with other young professionals from many countries.
- Mentors and coaches – Senior leaders and alumni will guide you and answer your questions.
- Structured learning – Formal training, workshops and on‑the‑job projects keep your skills growing.
- Varied assignments – Work on real business challenges that let you see the whole company.
Who Heineken is looking for
- Ambitious go‑getters who want a clear career path in commerce, sales, marketing or business management.
- Open‑minded explorers ready to try new things and step out of their comfort zone.
- Future leaders who can take charge of projects, inspire teammates and drive improvements.
Skills you will pick up
- The Heineken way – Understand the brand’s strategy and how to bring it to life.
- Project leadership – Run projects that move the business forward.
- Stakeholder & change management – Learn to work with different teams and lead change smoothly.
What you need to apply
- Education – A bachelor’s degree in marketing, sales, commerce, business management or a related field.
- Work experience – No previous job is required; you must be a fresh graduate (max 1 year after graduation).
- Language – Strong English skills plus any local language required in the office location.
- Work rights – Legal permission to work in South Africa.
- Travel willingness – Ability to move abroad for the international rotation and to travel as needed.
How the selection works
- Submit your application – Upload a CV and cover letter on the Heineken careers portal between 15 May and 31 May 2026.
- Online assessments – Complete a short behavioural test and a cognitive quiz; no preparation needed.
- Interviews – If you pass the tests, you will be invited to two virtual interviews scheduled for June‑July 2026.
- Assessment centre – Successful candidates attend an in‑person day of activities and evaluations, also planned for June‑July 2026.
Note: The online test can be taken only once. Apply for just one graduate stream in South Africa to keep your results linked to the correct role.
Life after the programme
When you finish the three‑year journey, Heineken will offer you a permanent management position either in South Africa or at one of its global operating companies. Ongoing development programmes are available to keep you growing as a leader.
Ready to start your career with a world‑famous brand? Take the first step, submit your application and explore the world of Heineken. Good luck!
Heineken believes that diversity makes us stronger. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, ages, genders, ethnicities, abilities and beliefs.