Roche invites South African graduates to apply for its 24-month Commercial Graduate Programme 2026 in Johannesburg. Gain rotational experience, hands-on exposure, and leadership development in the pharmaceutical industry.
Roche is inviting high-potential South African graduates to apply for the Commercial Graduate Programme 2026, a 24-month rotational internship based in Johannesburg, Gauteng. This fast-track programme is designed for graduates aiming to become future commercial and business leaders in healthcare.
Participants will gain practical, hands-on experience across multiple business areas, preparing them for leadership roles while contributing to Roche’s mission of advancing life-changing healthcare solutions.
About Roche
Roche is a global leader in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics, employing over 100,000 people worldwide. The organisation is committed to innovation, inclusion, and improving patient access to healthcare. At Roche, individuality is valued, and employees are encouraged to contribute authentically while developing professionally in a collaborative and innovative environment.
About the Commercial Graduate Programme
The Roche Commercial Graduate Programme is a fast-track, rotational programme that provides graduates with broad exposure to key commercial and business functions. Participants gain insight into strategy, science, and operations, learning how innovative medicines move from concept to patient care.
Key features of the programme include:
- Rotations across multiple commercial and operational functions
- Hands-on experience in strategy, market analysis, and brand management
- Exposure to medical affairs, regulatory, and clinical operations
- Development of financial acumen and People Leader (P&L) understanding
Graduates leave the programme with a 360-degree understanding of the pharmaceutical business and the skills needed to step into leadership roles.
What You Will Be Exposed To
During the 24-month programme, participants will rotate through the following areas:
- Commercial Strategy & Brand Management: Execute brand plans, analyse market trends, and contribute to commercial success across therapeutic areas.
- Medical & Scientific Engagement: Support medical affairs processes, interact with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs), and contribute to evidence-based medical strategies.
- Regulatory, Safety & Clinical Operations: Learn drug approval processes, safety monitoring, clinical development, and operational excellence.
- Business & Financial Acumen: Develop People Leader (P&L) skills, financial understanding, and contribute to supply chain efficiency.
This comprehensive exposure equips graduates with the knowledge, skills, and confidence required to advance within Roche.
Who Should Apply
The Roche Commercial Graduate Programme is ideal for graduates who:
- Have completed a Bachelor’s degree (minimum NQF Level 7) in a Commercial, Medical, or Science-related field
- Demonstrate leadership potential through academic, extracurricular, or professional activities
- Achieve strong academic performance
- Possess excellent communication skills in English
- Are proactive, ambitious, and driven
- Thrive in fast-paced, purpose-driven environments
Advantageous experience:
- Previous high-impact internships in the Pharmaceutical or Biotechnology sector
This opportunity is particularly suitable for graduates who aspire to commercial leadership roles in healthcare and are passionate about science, innovation, and improving patient access to medicines.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through Roche’s official careers portal.
Application details:
- Submit your application before 05 February 2026
- Ensure all qualifications, transcripts, and relevant documentation are attached
- Late applications will not be considered
Roche is committed to employment equity and encourages all qualified candidates to apply.
Application link: Apply for Roche Commercial Graduate Programme 2026
Career Value of the Programme
Graduates of this programme gain:
- Broad rotational exposure across Roche’s commercial and operational functions
- Hands-on experience in strategy, brand management, medical engagement, and operations
- Mentorship and professional development opportunities
- Insight into the pharmaceutical industry and healthcare systems
- A strong foundation for leadership and career progression in commercial or business roles
This programme equips graduates with the practical experience and industry knowledge required to advance rapidly in a global healthcare organisation.
Conclusion
The Roche Commercial Graduate Programme 2026 is a unique opportunity for ambitious South African graduates to gain comprehensive, real-world experience in the pharmaceutical industry.
Candidates should ensure they meet all eligibility requirements, prepare their documentation, and submit their applications online before 05 February 2026. The programme provides practical learning, mentorship, and a pathway to future leadership roles within Roche.
