Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa opens applications for its Ascend Leaders in Training Programme

Johannesburg, South Africa – Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA), a company in the Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) group, is now accepting applications for its 2025-2026 Ascend Leaders in Training Programme. This 18-month, Africa-wide programme offers graduates a structured pathway into leadership roles within one of Africa’s most influential companies. 

Successful participants will gain practical experience across multiple business areas, including production, commercial, logistics and quality control. Trainees will receive mentorship, participate in real projects aimed to drive business growth, and gain the skills and confidence needed to take on leadership responsibilities in a dynamic business environment. 

“Leadership programmes like Ascend help us develop the next generation of leaders. In today’s competitive job market, Ascend can play a vital role in preparing young graduates for meaningful careers. Beyond work experience, participants gain business skills, professional credibility, career guidance, and exposure to real business challenges. Graduates who complete the programme will have an opportunity to be considered for  permanent roles with higher responsibility and long-term career prospects”, said Rowena Lalla, CCBSA’s Country Lead for Talent Acquisition. 

The programme is open to graduates who completed their degrees in 2023 and 2024, as well as those who are completing their degrees in 2025, in fields such as engineering, commerce, and life sciences (including microbiology).  

Describing the type of candidates the company is looking for, Lalla added, “Successful candidates must be ambitious, adaptable, results-oriented, and eager to take ownership. They must be curious, solution-focused, and ready to learn and contribute to both the company and their own growth.  

The Ascend Leaders in Training Programme will include rotational assignments across key business functions, mentorship from experienced leaders, exposure to real business challenges, and opportunities in the future to work in different African markets within the CCBA group. 

Applications close on 30 November 2025. Eligible candidates interested in joining the Ascend Leaders in Training Programme are encouraged to apply early through the official recruitment website.  

Website: https://ccba.graduate.erecruit.co/candidateapp/Jobs/View/CCB251111-1  

  • Business, EVP

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Matthew Welz

General Counsel and Company Secretary, CCBA

Matthew joined us from the Clicks Group, a JSE Top-40 company, where he has been the Head of Legal and Company Secretary since 2016. In this role Matthew successfully navigated a highly regulated environment, including overseeing compliance with company laws and the JSE Listings Requirements. As company secretary, he managed governance at Board level as well as being the Chairman’s chief of staff. Prior to this, Matthew was a Legal Manager with Anglo American, a major multinational diversified mining group, which includes three companies listed on the JSE, with extensive operations across Southern Africa.

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