Launch Your Career with a Global Leader in Health and Nutrition

Are you a recent graduate ready to make a real impact in the food and beverage industry? Danone South Africa is seeking ambitious, talented graduates to join our prestigious Danone Ascend Graduate Development Program – a transformative 24-month journey designed to shape the next generation of business leaders.

About the Opportunity

This isn’t just another graduate role. The Danone Ascend Program offers a comprehensive, structured development experience across multiple business functions, giving you unparalleled exposure to how a global organization operates. You’ll rotate through different departments every 3-6 months, working on real projects that matter and contributing to our mission of bringing health through food to as many people as possible.

Location: Johannesburg Region, South Africa
Duration: 24 months
Contract Type: On-site, Full-time

What You’ll Do

Throughout your journey with us, you’ll be fully immersed in meaningful work that drives business results:

• Rotate across key functions including Production & Operations, Marketing, and Finance & Accounting
• Lead and support strategic projects that directly impact our business performance
• Analyze complex data and identify opportunities for process improvements and innovation
• Collaborate with diverse teams to solve real-world business challenges
• Participate in tailored training sessions and professional development workshops
• Present your insights and recommendations directly to senior leadership

Function-Specific Experiences

Production & Operations Track:
Get hands-on experience in our manufacturing facilities, supporting daily production planning, monitoring equipment performance, tracking KPIs, and driving continuous improvement through lean manufacturing principles.

Marketing Track:
Bring brands to life by supporting campaigns and product launches, conducting consumer insights research, analyzing market trends, and developing trade marketing and retail activation strategies.

Finance & Accounting Track:
Develop your financial acumen through budgeting, cost analysis, financial reporting, pricing strategy development, profitability assessments, and participation in audits and compliance reviews.

Who We’re Looking For

We’re seeking high-achieving graduates with qualifications in:

• Finance
• Accounting
• Marketing
• Engineering

Essential Skills & Attributes:

• Outstanding academic performance
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Adaptability and willingness to work in both factory and office environments
• Collaborative mindset with a passion for learning

Why Danone?

At Danone, we’re more than just a food and beverage company – we’re a movement dedicated to making the world healthier. With four core businesses spanning Essential Dairy and Plant-Based Products, Waters, Early Life Nutrition, and Medical Nutrition, we’re at the forefront of sustainable, health-focused innovation.

What We Offer:

• Accelerated career development through structured rotations and mentorship
• Collaborative, people-first culture that values relationships over rigid processes
• Focus on wellbeing with a supportive, social workplace environment
• Empowerment to make a difference and contribute to meaningful change
• Global exposure and networking opportunities within an international organization
• Continuous learning with access to training, workshops, and development resources

Ready to Ascend?

If you’re ambitious, curious, and ready to be part of something bigger than yourself, we want to hear from you. Join us in our mission to bring health through food to as many people as possible.

To Apply: Submit your CV highlighting your strong academic record and relevant qualifications.

Danone is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.

APPLY HERE