Graduate in Training: Impact Investing

Pele Energy Group; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 150 000 - 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading renewable energy firm in Sandton is seeking recent graduates for their Graduate in Training program. This intensive 24-month rotation offers exposure to various business functions, mentorship, and a chance to contribute to strategic initiatives. Ideal candidates will demonstrate strong analytical and communication skills, along with a passion for sustainability and finance. Successful candidates will transition into a permanent role post-training.

Qualifications

• Recent graduate with a degree in commerce-related field.
• Curious & adaptable to new challenges and environments.
• Motivated, self-starter with a willingness to learn.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the execution of strategic initiatives aligning with company objectives.
• Collaborate with department heads on high-impact projects.
• Contribute to financial and impact performance reporting.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Research skills

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Organisational skills

Education

Business Science degree

Economics degree

Finance degree

Politics, Philosophy & Economics degree

Tools

Excel

PowerPoint

Job description

The Graduate in Training (GIT) program is designed for recent graduates who are eager to launch their careers within Pele Energy Group, offering them an intensive, well‑rounded experience across key business functions. This program provides a structured, fast‑paced learning environment where the graduate will gain exposure to different aspects of the business, develop technical and soft skills, and actively contribute to the company's strategic goals. The Graduate in Training will play a critical role in supporting departmental objectives, learning from seasoned professionals, and being mentored to drive continuous improvement. This is a 24 month rotation throughout the business on a full‑time basis.

Requirements

Strategic Learning and Development

• Participate in a comprehensive learning and development program that is aligned with the company's long‑term vision and operational goals
• Engage in high‑impact projects with cross‑departmental exposure, learning the strategic priorities and goals of the company while developing core competencies in business leadership, operations, and project management
• Receive mentorship and coaching from senior leaders to accelerate personal and professional growth in preparation for future leadership roles within the company

Business Strategy Execution

• Collaborate closely with department heads to assist in the execution of strategic initiatives that align with the company's overarching business objectives
• Collaborate with business units to implement strategies that advance the company's dual mandate — commercial growth and positive community outcomes
• Assist with research and analysis to identify fundraising opportunities and blended finance mechanisms
• Contribute to financial and impact performance reporting to inform management decisions and

Cross‑Functional Engagement and Exposure

• Rotate through key functions within the organization (e.g., Sustainability, Finance, Business Development, etc.) to build a comprehensive understanding of how the different teams collaborate to achieve the company's mission
• Contribute to strategic decision‑making by understanding departmental interdependencies and identifying opportunities for synergy across teams
• Participate in projects from fund structuring to community development programmes to understand how financial instruments can be used to create long‑term impact
• Engage with internal and external stakeholders (e.g.: DFIs, community partners, donors, commercial banks) to support collaboration and alignment with the company's mission

Innovative Problem Solving and Continuous Improvement

• Identify innovative approaches for mobilising capital toward underserved markets, renewable energy or inclusive economic growth
• Assist in developing frameworks for impact measurement, reporting, and verification to strengthen accountability and transparency
• Support internal process improvements that enhance the company's ability to deliver both financial value and positive outcomes

Leadership and Ownership

• Take ownership of assigned projects and deliver outputs with attention to detail, timeliness, and quality
• Develop decision‑making and leadership capabilities within the context of responsible investment and sustainability
• Develop foundational leadership and project management skills through collaboration with peers and senior mentors

Data‑Driven Reporting and Analysis

• Assist in collecting and analysing data related to financial performance, impact metrics and operational efficiency
• Report findings to senior management, highlighting trade‑offs or synergies between financial and impact objectives
• Support internal impact reporting including the collection, collation and analysis of impact data.
• Recommend ways of improving impact measurement including the refinement and recommendation of systems, processes and frameworks.

Relationship Building and Networking

• Foster strong relationships with colleagues across different functions to create a collaborative and open work environment
• Leverage networking opportunities within the company to understand different career paths, opportunities, and leadership styles
• Build strong working relationships across finance, sustainability, and project development teams to foster integrated impact strategies
• Engage with external networks in the impact investing ecosystem such as DFIs, foundations or Impact Investors to deepen understanding of catalytic capital trends.
• Represent the company in selected forums or events related to sustainable finance, renewable energy, and social impact investing

Long‑Term Career Growth and Success

• Demonstrate personal initiative and motivation to grow within the company's ecosystem, contributing to both the short‑ and long‑term success of the business
• Show commitment to advancing a career at the intersection of finance, sustainability, and impact
• Actively participate in career development discussions and work closely with mentors to chart a clear path for career progression in alignment with the company's leadership pipeline
• After successfully completing the training program, transition into a full‑time, permanent role in a department that matches your skill set, experience, and career aspirations
• Maintain accurate records of training progress, project outcomes, and personal development achievements
• Prepare reports for supervisors or managers summarising key learning outcomes and contributions

Desired Skills And Qualifications

Education

• Recent graduate with a degree in Business Science, Economics, Finance, Politics, Philosophy & Economics or any other commerce‑related degree.

Skills

• Strong analytical, problem‑solving and research skills.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• High attention to detail and strong organisational skills.

Personal Attributes

• Motivated, self‑starter with a willingness to learn
• Curious & adaptable to new challenges and environments
• Passion for finance, development & South Africa
• Strong time management and multitasking abilities
• Preferred Skills (Optional): Excel, PowerPoint
• Relevant internships or project experience