Description
The industry organisation, Fresh Produce Exporters' Forum (FPEF), runs a number of initiatives to bring about transformation in the fresh fruit export industry. The FPEF Graduate Placement Programme places high-calibre graduates in junior commercial, logistics and technical (post-harvest quality management) roles at South African fruit export companies for one year, potentially leading to long-term career opportunities. The aim of this programme is to integrate a growing group of talented young individuals into the commercial and operational heart of the industry.
One of FPEF's leading member companies is seeking a Documents Controller Intern to join its team in Stellenbosch. This company has an established footprint in international fresh produce markets and is recognised for its expertise in export logistics, supply chain coordination and customer service.
This is your opportunity to enter the dynamic, fast-growing and competitive world of post-harvest fruit handling, international fruit trade and export logistics.
Intern responsibilities:
- Coordinate and administer international fresh produce export shipments, with a primary focus on airfreight operations.
- Prepare, verify and distribute export documentation, including invoices, packing lists, airway bills, shipping instructions and customer-specific documentation.
- Liaise daily with freight forwarders, airlines, service providers, growers, packhouses and customers to ensure the smooth movement of product.
- Monitor shipment schedules and proactively communicate flight bookings, shipment updates, delays and changes to relevant stakeholders.
- Ensure all export documentation is accurate, complete and submitted within the required deadlines to prevent delays or shipment disruptions.
- Assist with the coordination of customer orders, export bookings and shipment planning.
- Support compliance with destination market requirements and customer-specific export protocols.
- Maintain accurate shipment records, filing systems and operational reports.
- Handle customer and operational queries in a professional and efficient manner.
- Work closely with the logistics and operations teams to ensure service excellence throughout the export process.
- Process, organise and analyse information to support effective decision-making and operational efficiency.
- Ensure effective communication and administration within a fast-paced international supply chain environment.
- Participate in training, mentorship and development opportunities provided by the host company.
- The variety and complexity of responsibilities will develop together with the intern's skills, knowledge and experience throughout the programme.
Working Environment and Flexibility
- This is a hands-on logistics role within the fast-paced fresh produce export industry.
- While normal working hours apply, the successful candidate must be willing to demonstrate flexibility when operational requirements demand it.
- Due to the time-sensitive nature of airfreight exports, occasional after-hours and weekend work may be required to meet shipment deadlines, accommodate flight schedules and ensure customers receive the highest level of service.
- While some tasks may be completed remotely when appropriate, export logistics operate according to airline schedules and commercial deadlines. The successful candidate must therefore be committed to responding promptly when urgent operational matters arise.
.Application requirements:
- BSc degree or BCom degree in: Marketing / Logistics / Agricultural Economics / Agriculture.
- Excellent verbal and written English communication skills.
- High degree of computer literacy.
- Strong administrative skills with exceptional attention to detail and a high level of accuracy.
- Ability to collect, organise and critically analyse information.
- Strong organisational, planning and time-management skills.
- Ability to work accurately under pressure and meet strict deadlines.
- A positive attitude and a strong willingness to learn and develop within the fresh produce export industry.
- Ability to learn quickly and adapt to new systems, processes and operational requirements.
- Self-confident with strong interpersonal and negotiation skills.
- Collaborative teamwork and leadership skills.
- Ambitious, self-motivated and results-driven.
- Strong problem-solving ability and the capacity to perform well under pressure.
- Integrity, sound ethics and high standards for self and others.
- Applicants must be SA Citizens, under the age of 30.
- Students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds will enjoy preference
Remuneration:
The respective organisations undertake to provide mentorship and market-related remuneration as applicable to interns.
To apply - Apply on-line with an up-to-date CV and completed "cover" message