Novartis Learnerships 2026 – Opportunities in Medical Sales, Quality Assurance, and Finance
Novartis is offering an exciting range of 12-month learnership opportunities for 2026, designed to help young South Africans gain valuable work experience in the pharmaceutical industry. These programmes provide structured training, hands-on exposure, and professional development in three specialised fields: Medical Sales, Quality Assurance (QA), and Finance. The learnerships aim to support early-career professionals while contributing to the company’s mission of improving healthcare and enhancing patient outcomes.
About the 2026 Learnership Programme
This learnership programme combines formal theoretical training with practical on-the-job experience. Over the course of twelve months, learners will be exposed to real workplace environments while receiving the support, guidance, and mentorship needed to develop essential industry skills. The programme is designed to prepare participants for future employment opportunities in one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical organisations.
All learnerships follow a structured approach that encourages continuous learning, personal growth, and professional readiness.
Available Learnership Fields
1. Medical Sales Learnership
The Medical Sales Learnership is ideal for individuals who have a passion for healthcare and a strong interest in pharmaceutical products, customer relationships, and targeted sales strategies. Learners will work closely with healthcare professionals, develop product knowledge, and gain understanding of ethical sales practices.
Ideal Candidates Should Have:
- A completed degree in science, marketing, business, or a related field
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Professionalism, integrity, and confidence when interacting with clients
- Good organisational and presentation abilities
- A valid driver’s license is beneficial and may support field activities
Participants will learn to build and maintain customer relationships, understand product portfolios, and support promotional activities within assigned territories.
2. Quality Assurance (QA) Learnership
The Quality Assurance Learnership is best suited for those who enjoy accuracy, compliance, and structured processes. It offers practical exposure to pharmaceutical manufacturing standards, documentation systems, and quality oversight functions.
Ideal Candidates Should Have:
- A science degree or a pharmaceutical-related qualification such as Basic or Post-Basic Pharmacy Assistant
- Strong attention to detail and analytical skills
- The ability to follow procedures carefully and accurately
- Good verbal and written communication skills
- A strong sense of responsibility for compliance and product safety
Learners will gain hands-on experience in documenting quality activities, supporting compliance checks, and assisting with quality control procedures that maintain the safety, efficacy, and reliability of pharmaceutical products.
3. Finance Learnership
The Finance Learnership offers an opportunity to build foundational skills in financial analysis, reporting, budgeting, and administrative support within a global organisation.
Ideal Candidates Should Have:
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification (finance-related fields are preferred)
- Strong numerical ability and a willingness to learn
- Good analytical and problem-solving skills
- Proficiency in basic computer software, especially Excel and PowerPoint
- The ability to work accurately and meet deadlines
This programme helps learners understand corporate finance processes, internal controls, and financial planning activities while contributing to daily operational tasks.
General Requirements for All Applicants
To be considered for any of the Novartis Learnerships, applicants should meet the following criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must have completed the required qualification for the specific learnership field
- Must have good communication skills, both written and verbal
- Should be adaptable, eager to learn, and able to work effectively in a team
- Must demonstrate good problem-solving and organisational abilities
- Must be willing to commit to a full 12-month structured training programme
- Must submit a CV, academic transcripts, and a motivational letter
The programme is open to individuals who are dedicated, focused, and ready to start building a meaningful career pathway.
Programme Structure
Learners will take part in both theoretical and practical training modules. The theoretical component is classroom- or online-based and focuses on core knowledge required for each field. The practical component provides real work experience in a professional environment, where learners will apply what they have learned and contribute to ongoing business activities.
Throughout the 12 months, learners will receive guidance from mentors, work alongside experienced professionals, and develop confidence in their chosen field.
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How to Apply
Applicants must submit their applications through the official Novartis recruitment portal. The application should include:
- A comprehensive CV
- A motivational letter explaining why you are applying
- Certified academic transcripts or proof of qualification
Please ensure all documents are uploaded correctly. Incomplete applications may not be considered. If you do not receive feedback within the expected timeframe, you may assume your application was not successful for this intake.