Application Closing Date: 30 November 2025
Location: Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
Programme Duration: 12 – 24 Months
Introduction: A Launchpad for Ambitious Graduates
Entering the workforce as a recent graduate can be a challenging experience, especially in South Africa’s highly competitive job market. For those seeking a meaningful start, Sea Harvest offers one of the best opportunities to gain industry experience and professional growth through its Graduate Internship Programme 2026. Recognized as a leader in the Fast–Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) and fishing sectors, Sea Harvest stands out for its commitment to nurturing young talent and preparing them for leadership roles.
The Sea Harvest Graduate Programme is far more than a typical internship. It provides a structured, immersive experience that combines practical, on-the-job training with formal mentorship and leadership exposure. It aims to equip graduates with the necessary tools to excel in complex, fast-paced business environments.
About the Sea Harvest Graduate Programme 2026
Founded in 1964, Sea Harvest has grown into a major global player in FMCG production and distribution. But beyond business success, the company places a strong emphasis on youth development, skills building, and sustainable workforce growth — essential pillars for South Africa’s economic future.
The Graduate Programme is tailored to help top-performing South African graduates smoothly transition from academic life to the professional world. Over 12 to 24 months, participants receive a mix of classroom-based training and hands-on work experience. This blend allows them to develop a broad skill set spanning technical, operational, and leadership capabilities.
Interns get the opportunity to work across diverse business units, including production lines, supply chain logistics, finance, IT, marketing, and environmental management. This multi-department exposure ensures a well-rounded understanding of how a large FMCG company operates and innovates in a competitive marketplace.
Why the Sea Harvest Graduate Programme Stands Out
Many graduate internship opportunities lack clear structure or fail to offer real responsibility and mentorship. In contrast, Sea Harvest’s Graduate Programme provides a comprehensive framework for career development:
- Structured Training: Graduates receive targeted training designed to build specific skills aligned with business needs.
- Hands-on Learning: Interns actively contribute to live projects, gaining real-world experience that strengthens their resumes.
- Mentorship: Experienced professionals guide participants, providing valuable advice and support for career progression.
- Cross-Functional Exposure: The programme encourages collaboration across departments to foster a holistic business perspective.
- Measurable Outcomes: Interns’ progress is monitored and assessed, helping them refine their skills and reach milestones.
This commitment to development positions Sea Harvest as a launchpad for future business leaders in South Africa’s vital food production and export industries.
Fields of Study Welcomed
The 2026 intake is open to graduates from a variety of disciplines relevant to Sea Harvest’s operational spectrum. This diversity reflects the company’s broad business model and need for multidisciplinary skills, including:
- Finance
- Mechanical Engineering
- Food Technology / Food Science
- Consumer Science (Food & Nutrition)
- Environmental & Geographic Science
- Computer Science / Information Technology
- Industrial Psychology / Human Resources
- Business Science
- Marketing
Candidates from these fields will find roles that suit their expertise and career goals, with tailored projects that challenge their abilities and grow their professional knowledge.
Eligibility Criteria and Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria to qualify for the 2026 Sea Harvest Graduate Programme:
- Must hold a Bachelor’s Degree, BTech, or Advanced Diploma (or higher) in a relevant field.
- Must be a South African citizen or have valid South African work authorization.
- Must be a first-time entrant into the workforce — no previous graduate internship or related programme experience.
This programme is specifically aimed at providing fresh graduates with a solid stepping stone into their careers, helping them gain initial work experience and build industry connections.
The Ideal Candidate Profile
Sea Harvest values more than just academic success. The ideal graduate intern demonstrates:
- Adaptability: Ability to thrive in dynamic, fast-changing environments.
- Willingness to Learn: A proactive attitude toward personal and professional growth.
- Initiative: Readiness to take responsibility and lead projects or tasks.
- Teamwork: Strong collaboration skills and openness to diverse perspectives.
- Innovation: Creative problem-solving paired with analytical thinking.
Candidates who bring energy, dedication, and an eagerness to contribute will find a rewarding experience that sets the foundation for long-term career success.
Key Skills for Success
While technical qualifications open the door, success in the programme depends on cultivating both hard and soft skills, including:
- Analytical Thinking: Ability to dissect problems and generate practical solutions.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office: Competence in Excel, Word, and PowerPoint is essential.
- Communication: Clear verbal and written communication, alongside presentation skills.
- Leadership Potential: Capacity to motivate and influence others in a team setting.
- Attention to Detail: Delivering quality work consistently and efficiently.
- Self-Motivation: Taking ownership of tasks and deadlines without constant supervision.
Graduates who demonstrate these skills often transition smoothly into permanent roles or advanced leadership tracks.
How to Apply for the Sea Harvest Graduate Programme 2026
Interested candidates should prepare the following documents for application:
- A detailed CV highlighting academic achievements and relevant skills.
- Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates.
Submission Process:
Applications can be emailed to the HR Manager at recruitcorporate@seaharvest.co.za with the subject line including your full name and the programme field you are applying for. Alternatively, apply through the official recruitment portal:
https://seaharvest.simplify.hr/Vacancy/157192
Closing Date: 30 November 2025
Note: Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Sea Harvest Graduate Internships 2026 – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the duration of the Sea Harvest Graduate Programme?
A: The programme lasts between 12 and 24 months, depending on the specific department and business requirements.
Q: Who is eligible to apply for this internship?
A: South African graduates holding a relevant degree who have not participated in any prior graduate or internship programmes are eligible.
Q: Is the programme paid?
A: Yes, participants receive a monthly stipend according to company policy to assist with living and commuting costs.
Q: Can international students apply?
A: No. Only South African citizens or permanent residents with valid work authorization can apply.
Q: What happens after I complete the internship?
A: High-performing graduates may be offered permanent employment or extended development opportunities within Sea Harvest or its affiliated companies.
Q: What kind of support is provided during the programme?
A: Graduates receive mentorship from experienced professionals and participate in structured training sessions to develop both technical and soft skills.
Q: How competitive is the selection process?
A: Very competitive. The company seeks top candidates who demonstrate strong academic performance, skills, and a passion for growth.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Youth unemployment is a significant challenge in South Africa, and finding meaningful, career-building opportunities is crucial for new graduates. The Sea Harvest Graduate Programme directly tackles this issue by equipping young professionals with skills and experience that improve their employability and career prospects.
Sea Harvest’s philosophy underscores that investing in people is key to sustainable business success. By providing structured development, mentorship, and exposure to real business challenges, the company contributes positively to the economy and helps shape the future leaders of the FMCG industry.
Final Thoughts: Your Career Starts Here
For graduates looking to make a mark in one of South Africa’s most respected FMCG companies, the Sea Harvest Graduate Programme 2026 offers a unique and valuable platform. It is more than just an internship; it is a career accelerator that offers professional growth, networking opportunities, and practical skills development.
If you are a motivated, ambitious graduate eager to develop your career in a dynamic and supportive environment, now is the time to apply. Prepare your CV, gather your academic certificates, and submit your application before the closing date of 30 November 2025.
This opportunity could be the key to unlocking your professional future — don’t miss out.
Amina Sechaba is a passionate career writer and employment researcher dedicated to helping South Africans find better job opportunities and prepare for successful careers. With years of experience in content writing and career development, Amina creates informative articles, application guides, and interview tips that empower job seekers to reach their full potential. Through her work with Submit Your CV, she aims to simplify the job application process and provide reliable information on learnerships, internships, and career advice for both students and professionals.