SAPPI has opened applications for its Supply Chain Internship Programme 2026 at Saiccor Mill in Umkomaas, KwaZulu-Natal. This is a 12-month, hands-on internship designed to give recent graduates real-world exposure to supply chain operations and bridge the gap between academic theory and professional practice.
This programme is not about observing from the sidelines—you will be actively involved in core operations, mentored by experienced professionals, and gain insight into how supply chains function at industrial scale in one of South Africa’s leading global companies.
Quick Overview
- Company: Sappi Limited
- Programme: Supply Chain Internship Programme
- Duration: 12 months (1 year)
- Location: Saiccor Mill, Umkomaas – KwaZulu-Natal
- Reference: req233
- Closing Date: 19 January 2026
- Qualification Required: Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain Management, Procurement, Finance, or Business Administration
- Experience Required: None
- Target Group: Recent graduates
- Start Type: Structured graduate internship
What You’ll Do
This internship gives you exposure to multiple aspects of supply chain operations:
Administrative Support Across Key Departments
You’ll support sales, production, and supply chain teams, helping you understand how departments interact to move products from factory to customer. This builds cross-functional and holistic thinking.
Customer Order Support
Assist customers with queries related to order status, documentation, and scheduling. Skills gained include customer communication and operational accuracy.
Forecasting, Inventory Planning & Scheduling
Work with the supply chain team to support demand forecasting, inventory planning, and production scheduling. These are core supply chain competencies highly valued in the industry.
Order Processing & Quality Control
Process orders according to SAPPI’s procedures and review peer orders to minimise booking errors. Skills gained: attention to detail, systems discipline, and accountability.
Planning & Manufacturing Support
Assist the Planning department with allocation, block space, and urgent manufacturing requirements. Learn how real-world constraints influence production decisions.
Who Should Apply
Minimum Requirements
- Matric / Grade 12
- Bachelor’s Degree in:
- Supply Chain Management
- Procurement
- Finance
- Business Administration
- No prior work experience required
Technical Skills
- Comfortable with MS Word
- Confident using Excel (essential for supply chain tasks)
- Able to work with PowerPoint
- Familiar with Outlook and Microsoft Teams
Tip: If Excel feels challenging, begin practising formulas and functions now—it will give you a strong advantage.
Location
The internship is based at SAPPI Saiccor, Umkomaas, KwaZulu-Natal. Interns should be prepared for:
- Industrial work environment
- Structured working hours
- Professional corporate standards
This is ideal for graduates living in or near Durban, South Coast, or surrounding KZN areas.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online via SAPPI’s official career portal. Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered.
Closing Date: 19 January 2026
Apply for the SAPPI Supply Chain Internship Programme 2026 Here
Conclusion
The SAPPI Supply Chain Internship Programme 2026 provides an exceptional opportunity for recent graduates to gain practical, structured experience in supply chain operations at a leading global company. With mentorship, exposure to real operations, and the chance to develop core competencies, this internship is an ideal stepping stone for a career in supply chain, procurement, finance, or business management. Eligible graduates are encouraged to prepare their documents and apply early to avoid missing out.
