The Danone Ascend Graduate Development Programme is seeking motivated South African graduates who are ready to begin a successful career within HR and other core business functions. Successful applicants will be responsible for supporting HR operations, participating in structured rotations, assisting in projects, analysing data, and contributing to Danone’s long-term strategic initiatives. This article outlines everything you need to know — including job details, requirements, duties, and a step-by-step guide on how to apply online.
Job Details:
- Company Name: Danone
- Job Title: Human Resources Graduate Trainee – Ascend Graduate Program
- Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
- Work Model: On-site
- Contract Type: 24-Month Graduate Programme
- Closing Date: Not specified
- Department: Human Resources
- Region: Johannesburg Region
Function-Specific Responsibilities
Production & Operations:
- Assist in daily production planning and scheduling.
- Monitor equipment performance and assess production KPIs.
- Participate in continuous improvement frameworks such as Lean Manufacturing
️Marketing:
- Support brand marketing campaigns and product launches.
- Conduct market research and analyse consumer behaviour.
- Assist in trade marketing activities and retail activation initiatives.
Finance & Accounting:
- Support budgeting, forecasting, and cost analysis.
- Assist with pricing strategies and profitability studies.
- Participate in audits and internal compliance reviews
Graduates selected for the Ascend Program will be expected to:
- Participate in cross-functional rotations every 3–6 months.
- Support operational and strategic projects within the HR department and other functions.
- Analyse data and contribute to process improvement initiatives.
- Collaborate with team members to solve real business problems.
- Attend training sessions, workshops, and learning programmes.
- Present insights, reports, and recommendations to senior management.
Minimum Qualifications
Graduates with degrees in the following fields are encouraged to apply:
- Finance
- Accounting
- Marketing
- Engineering
- Human Resources
How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)
Follow this easy guide to submit your application successfully:
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Ensure you have:
- A professional CV
- Academic transcripts
- Certified ID copy (if required)
- A short motivational statement (optional but recommended)
Step 2: Visit the Official Danone Careers Portal
Author Profile
-
Meet Tumelo Mokoena, a passionate storyteller and lifelong reader with an eye for uncovering the deeper meaning behind every page. A proud graduate of the University of Johannesburg, Tumelo holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English and Media Studies, where he developed his love for literature, storytelling, and the power of words to connect people across cultures.
When he’s not lost in a good book, Tumelo enjoys sharing book reviews, reflections, and thought-provoking insights on modern literature, culture, and creativity. His mission? To inspire others to read more, think deeper, and fall in love with the written word all over again.
For more info: Tumelo@theinternships.co.za
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