The Pepkor Lifestyle Retail Division has opened applications for its Digital Media Graduate Internship Programme 2026, offering graduates a rare opportunity to step directly into the fast-moving world of digital advertising, performance marketing, and data-driven decision-making. This 12-month paid graduate programme, based in Johannesburg, Gauteng, is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and real commercial impact within one of South Africa’s most influential retail groups.
This is not a passive internship. Graduates are placed at the centre of live digital campaigns, where insight, creativity, and analytical thinking combine to drive measurable business results.
About the Pepkor Lifestyle Digital Media Graduate Programme
The programme is structured to expose graduates to the full digital media lifecycle, from research and strategy to execution, optimisation, and reporting. Interns work alongside experienced digital professionals and gain hands-on exposure across Pepkor Lifestyle’s retail brands.
Throughout the programme, graduates develop practical skills in paid media, performance analytics, campaign optimisation, and digital strategy, building a strong foundation for long-term careers in marketing, e-commerce, and analytics.
Programme Overview
The Pepkor Lifestyle Digital Media Graduate Internship Programme runs for 12 months and focuses on digital performance, return-on-investment optimisation, and paid media execution. The programme is suited to graduates who are curious, analytical, and eager to work in a commercial environment where data and creativity go hand in hand.
What You Will Do as a Digital Media Graduate
Keyword, Trend, and Competitor Research
Graduates actively research what consumers are searching for online, how competitors position themselves in digital spaces, and which advertising trends are shaping the market. This research supports smarter campaign decisions and keeps Pepkor Lifestyle competitive in a rapidly evolving digital environment.
Content Review and Publishing
Interns assess digital content for relevance, accuracy, and alignment with campaign objectives. They assist with publishing content across suitable digital platforms, ensuring messaging is consistent, engaging, and strategically aligned.
Campaign Performance Monitoring
A key part of the role involves tracking campaign performance metrics such as clicks, conversions, engagement, and overall return on investment. Graduates analyse live data and share insights with digital management teams, directly influencing future campaign strategies.
Optimisation and Continuous Improvement
Using real-time data, graduates help refine targeting, adjust budgets, improve formats, and enhance delivery methods. This process turns analytical insight into tangible business value.
New Content and Platform Research
Digital media is constantly changing. Graduates are encouraged to explore new platforms, tools, and content formats, contributing ideas that support innovation and long-term growth within the business.
Who Should Apply
Pepkor Lifestyle is looking for high-potential graduates who are ready to learn, contribute, and grow within a performance-driven environment.
Minimum Academic Requirements
Applicants must have completed one of the following qualifications at an accredited institution:
- BCom
- BSc
- Honours Degree
- Master’s Degree
Qualifications related to commerce, science, marketing, analytics, or digital disciplines are particularly relevant.
Skills and Personal Attributes
Successful candidates typically demonstrate:
Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain insights clearly
Analytical thinking and confidence working with data
Curiosity and a genuine interest in digital trends and technology
A proactive approach to identifying and solving problems
The ability to collaborate effectively with teams and partners
Adaptability in fast-changing environments
A positive, professional attitude under pressure
Ethical awareness and responsible decision-making
Programme Benefits
Graduates selected for the programme can expect:
A competitive 12-month paid contract
Hands-on experience in a large commercial retail organisation
Opportunities to apply academic knowledge to real business challenges
Access to internal development and learning platforms
Cross-functional exposure across brands and teams
A strong foundation for long-term career growth within the Pepkor Group
Many participants use this programme as a stepping stone into permanent roles in digital marketing, analytics, e-commerce, and strategic planning.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through Pepkor Lifestyle’s official graduate recruitment platform.
APPLY FOR THE PEPKOR LIFESTYLE DIGITAL MEDIA GRADUATE INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME 2026 HERE
Applicants are encouraged to ensure that all required information is accurate and complete before submitting their application.
The closing date for applications is 23 January 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this programme paid?
Yes, the programme offers a paid 12-month graduate contract.
Where is the internship based?
The programme is based in Johannesburg, Gauteng.
Is this internship suitable for marketing graduates only?
No. Graduates from commerce, science, analytics, and related fields are encouraged to apply.
Does this programme lead to permanent employment?
While the programme is fixed-term, many graduates use it as a pathway into permanent roles within the Pepkor Group.
Conclusion
The Pepkor Lifestyle Digital Media Graduate Internship Programme 2026 is an ideal opportunity for graduates who want more than theoretical exposure. With hands-on involvement in live campaigns, access to experienced mentors, and exposure to one of South Africa’s leading retail groups, this programme offers a powerful launchpad into a future-focused digital career.
