INTERNSHIPS

Sanlam SAICA Trainee Accountant

Listing Reference: SAICA2025CT
Listing Status: Active


Position Summary

  • Company: Sanlam Group
  • Industry: Financial Services
  • Job Category: Chartered Accounting / Graduate Trainee
  • Location: Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
  • Contract Type: Fixed Term (3-Year CA(SA) Training Programme)
  • Remuneration: Market-Related Stipend
  • EE position: Yes
  • Closing Date: 31 May 2025

Introduction

Sanlam Group is offering an exceptional opportunity for aspiring Chartered Accountants to join its renowned SAICA Trainee Accountant Programme in Cape Town. This CA Training Programme is structured in alignment with the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) requirements, providing high-potential graduates with a structured path toward becoming a qualified CA(SA). If you’re a recent CTA graduate or pursuing a SAICA-accredited postgraduate qualification and dream of a career in financial services, this training programme is your gateway to success.

Sanlam, Africa’s largest non-banking financial services provider, offers this graduate opportunity as a stepping stone to personal and professional growth. The programme will prepare you to contribute meaningfully within a complex business environment while gaining exposure to the full spectrum of financial and business functions across a multinational organisation.


Job Description

As part of the Sanlam CA Training Programme, selected candidates will undergo a three-year rotation across various divisions within the Sanlam Group. This includes hands-on exposure in key business clusters such as Sanlam Life and Savings, Sanlam Investment Group, SanlamAllianz, Sanlam FinTech, and Santam. The experience gained will be critical in developing the required SAICA competencies and building a foundation for a lasting career in the finance and insurance industry.

During the programme, trainees will be expected to:

  • Participate in structured rotations within Group Office and business clusters
  • Engage in the Sanlam value creation process
  • Complete the formal SAICA-accredited practical experience programme
  • Collaborate with finance, audit, risk, and strategy teams on real-world projects
  • Demonstrate ethical behavior and technical proficiency
  • Contribute to annual reporting, risk assessments, governance, and internal audit

Exposure Areas:

  • Financial reporting and accounting
  • Governance, risk, and compliance
  • Strategy and financial planning
  • Internal and external auditing
  • Taxation and financial management
  • Digital tools and analytics within finance functions

Ideal Candidate

Sanlam is looking for self-motivated, academically strong graduates who are committed to becoming Chartered Accountants and making a difference within the African financial services landscape. If you resonate with innovation, integrity, and care, and have demonstrated leadership potential through university involvement, this opportunity is designed for you.

Minimum Qualification Requirements:

  • Certificate in the Theory of Accounting (CTA)
  • Or a postgraduate qualification recognized by SAICA for entry to the Initial Assessment of Competence (IAC)
  • Academic performance average of at least 60%
  • Participation in student organizations, community groups, or leadership roles is a plus
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools is advantageous

Role Responsibility

Trainee Accountants at Sanlam will play an active role in the success of the organisation while developing their technical and relational competencies. Responsibilities include:

  • Participating in business and finance strategy sessions
  • Supporting annual financial reporting and tax submissions
  • Engaging in internal audit and governance projects
  • Collaborating with risk management teams
  • Completing rotation deliverables and training assessments
  • Maintaining ethical standards and demonstrating professionalism
  • Contributing to ad hoc finance and audit-related projects

This role will also involve learning how to optimize processes, drive efficiencies, and support key decision-making frameworks that drive Sanlam’s value chain.


Skills & Attributes

Sanlam is seeking candidates who can excel independently while also collaborating across diverse teams. The ideal candidate will have a balance of technical acumen and personal values that align with Sanlam’s culture of excellence and transformation.

Technical Competencies:

  • Financial Accounting
  • Financial Management
  • Taxation (Corporate & Individual)
  • Internal and External Audit
  • Management Accounting

Personal Attributes:

  • Strong work ethic and accountability
  • Adaptability and eagerness to learn
  • Professional integrity and ethical conduct
  • High attention to detail
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Core Competencies:

  • Care: Demonstrates compassion and empathy within the team
  • Collaboration: Works well in group environments across departments
  • Innovation: Open to new ideas and improved financial processes
  • Integrity: Maintains honesty and trust in all professional engagements
  • Decision Quality: Applies logical reasoning in financial analysis and auditing

Build Your Career at Sanlam

Sanlam is deeply invested in empowering young professionals. Through the CA Training Programme, the company ensures each trainee receives personalized guidance, structured mentoring, and challenging opportunities to grow. Sanlam believes in unlocking employee potential and creating a strong pipeline of qualified Chartered Accountants who will lead Africa’s financial future.

The Sanlam environment is built around strong values, inclusion, and high-impact opportunities. Graduates entering this programme become part of a legacy of excellence that spans over a century, with operations in more than 31 countries across Africa, India, and selected developed markets.


Our Commitment to Transformation

Sanlam proudly supports transformation and inclusivity within its workforce. African Foreign Nationals who meet the programme criteria are encouraged to apply. The company’s Employment Equity policies guide all recruitment decisions, ensuring fairness, diversity, and equal opportunity for all.


How to Apply

Qualified candidates must submit an online application on or before 31 May 2025. The shortlisting process begins after the closing date, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessments.

Required Documents:

  • Updated CV
  • Academic transcripts
  • Proof of CTA or relevant postgraduate qualification
  • Copy of ID or passport

Start Your Journey Toward CA(SA) Excellence

This is your chance to grow within one of Africa’s leading financial institutions. If you’re ready to embark on a rigorous and rewarding journey toward becoming a Chartered Accountant, the Sanlam SAICA Trainee Accountant Programme 2025 is the perfect fit for you.

Click here to apply