Section: Commercial – Sales and Marketing

Reference Number: CCB250808-8
Location: South Africa – Nationwide
Application Deadline: 01 September 2025
Type of Position: Learnership (12-Month Duration)
Company: Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa

---

Overview of the Learnership Opportunity

Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA) is currently inviting applications for its dynamic Visual Merchandiser Learnership Programme, a comprehensive one-year development initiative aimed at equipping unemployed South African youth with practical, in-demand skills relevant to the fast-paced retail and consumer goods environment.

This 12-month structured programme is crafted to provide hands-on training and a deep understanding of retail merchandising, sales techniques, and the overall commercial workings of the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry. Through practical exposure and in-store learning, learners will gain a foundational grasp of merchandising principles, sales support, customer interaction, and brand execution strategies.

The learnership forms part of CCBSA’s ongoing commitment to empowering South African youth, particularly those who are unemployed and seeking skills that can enable them to participate meaningfully in the job market. By bridging the gap between academic qualifications and practical work experience, this programme plays a pivotal role in career development.

---

Purpose and Scope of the Programme

The key objective of this learnership is to develop aspiring merchandisers and retail professionals who can contribute to Coca-Cola’s brand strength and presence at the retail level. Participants will work closely with experienced Sales Account Developers and retail teams to execute merchandising strategies that boost product visibility, enhance customer satisfaction, and support sales growth.

This is an excellent opportunity for young individuals who are enthusiastic about retail, consumer engagement, and the business of brand representation. It is particularly well-suited for candidates who are keen on establishing a career in sales, visual merchandising, or brand marketing within a reputable and globally recognized organization.

---

Key Responsibilities and Core Functions

Learners accepted into this programme will engage in a variety of tasks and responsibilities intended to simulate real-world retail and sales operations. These activities are designed to help learners build practical capabilities in line with Coca-Cola’s standards and customer engagement principles. Below are the main areas of responsibility:

1. In-Store Merchandising and Execution

• Carry out scheduled daily visits to assigned retail outlets, ensuring that merchandising objectives are met consistently.

• Ensure products are properly displayed according to Coca-Cola’s visual merchandising guidelines, including correct placement, branding, and promotional visibility.

• Monitor and maintain appropriate stock levels on shelves and in backrooms.

• Rotate products regularly to avoid expired stock and ensure freshness and quality.

• Ensure that displays are clean, organized, and aligned with current marketing themes and promotions.

2. Sales and Customer Support

• Collaborate with retail partners to ensure product availability, timely restocking, and high-quality displays that attract consumer attention.

• Provide direct support to customers in placing orders through the MyCCBA online ordering platform.

• Participate in sales growth initiatives by promoting new products and encouraging customer engagement during campaigns.

3. Promotional Campaign Execution

• Assist in the implementation of national and regional promotional campaigns across various outlets.

• Support the coordination of marketing activations and special displays during festive seasons or product launches.

• Work with the marketing team to ensure all promotional materials are used appropriately and align with brand messaging.

4. Quality Assurance and Compliance

• Adhere to company-set standards by using tools such as the RED (Right Execution Daily) and iRED compliance scorecards to measure merchandising performance and execution.

• Conduct in-store surveys using mobile tools to report stock levels, product availability, and display compliance.

• Monitor competitor activity and report back to sales teams with insights for continuous improvement.

5. Operational and Administrative Support

• Provide day-to-day assistance to line managers and supervisors as required.

• Maintain accurate records of stock movements, in-store issues, and customer requests.

• Support logistical operations linked to merchandising and promotional efforts.

---

Candidate Profile and Entry Requirements

To be eligible for this programme, candidates must meet several minimum criteria. CCBSA is focused on promoting equity and inclusion, and preference may be given to applicants from underrepresented groups in accordance with its Employment Equity strategy.

Minimum Requirements:

• Educational Qualification: Grade 12 certificate (Matric) with a minimum of 40% in Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy.

• Language Proficiency: Minimum of 40% in English and one additional South African language.

• Age Range: Candidates must be between the ages of 18 and 35.

• Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen.

• Employment Status: Applicants must be currently unemployed.

• Other Criteria:

  • Must not be participating in any other learnership or full-time educational programme.

  • Must not have previously completed a learnership of this nature or qualification.

  • Clear criminal and credit record (verification will be conducted).

  • Willingness to work up to six days per week, including weekends or public holidays, depending on retail schedules.

  • Must be available to undergo criminal, identity, and qualification checks.

Desirable/Advantageous:

• A post-matric qualification in Sales, Marketing, Business Management, or a related field.

• A valid South African driver’s licence.

---

What the Programme Offers

This learnership offers far more than just a job – it provides a platform for learners to grow into well-rounded professionals with market-relevant skills. Participants will benefit from:

• Real-World Experience: Get firsthand exposure to one of the world’s leading beverage brands and its commercial strategies.

• Structured Learning: Participate in formal training modules covering the essentials of merchandising, retail sales, customer service, and business operations.

• Skills Development: Learn to apply professional tools and techniques used in modern retail environments such as execution scorecards and digital order platforms.

• Mentorship and Support: Receive guidance and mentorship from experienced staff and line managers who will support your learning journey.

• National Recognition: On successful completion, earn a nationally recognized qualification aligned with South Africa’s occupational framework.

Credits and Certification

Learners are expected to complete a minimum of 120 credits throughout the 12-month period. This includes both theoretical modules and practical workplace experience. Completion of all components will lead to formal certification, boosting employability and potential future career opportunities.

---

Ideal Candidate Attributes

This programme is designed for highly motivated, ambitious, and disciplined individuals who are eager to learn and grow. The following qualities will make you a strong candidate:

• A passion for consumer goods, sales, and brand marketing.

• Good interpersonal and communication skills.

• Willingness to travel locally to assigned outlets.

• Physically fit and capable of carrying out stock movement tasks.

• Team-oriented but also able to work independently when necessary.

• Professional, presentable, and enthusiastic about representing the Coca-Cola brand.

---

Application Process

Vacancy 1

APPLY HERE

 

Vacancy 2

APPLY HERE

 

Food Hiring Retailers 2025/2026

APPLY HERE

 

Interested applicants who meet the above requirements are encouraged to submit the following documentation:

1. Comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV) – outlining educational background, relevant experience (if any), and contactable references.

2. Certified Copy of Matric Certificate – not older than 6 months.

3. Certified Copies of Additional Qualifications – if applicable.

4. Copy of Driver’s Licence – if available.

Applications must be submitted on or before 01 September 2025. Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.

---

Important Notes

• This learnership opportunity is only open to individuals who have not previously completed a similar programme.

• Participation in this programme does not guarantee permanent employment with Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa.

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you do not hear back within 30 days after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

• CCBSA supports diversity and transformation and is committed to the principles of Employment Equity and Skills Development.

---

Conclusion

The Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa Visual Merchandiser Learnership is more than just a stepping stone into the retail industry – it’s a gateway into the broader world of sales, marketing, and brand management. By the end of the 12-month period, successful candidates will have acquired valuable insights and practical skills that can open doors in the FMCG sector or related industries.

This is a unique chance to work with a globally recognized brand, grow your capabilities in the retail environment, and be part of a dynamic and fast-moving workplace. If you are between the ages of 18 and 35, passionate about branding and consumer engagement, and ready to take on a hands-on challenge – then this learnership could be your opportunity to make a meaningful impact on your career journey.