Unilever Careers & Vacancies | Current Open Positions

Unilever, a global leader in consumer goods with brands like Dove, Knorr, and Vaseline, offers diverse career opportunities in South Africa across marketing, supply chain, finance, and research and development.

Unilever’s focus on sustainability, innovation, and diversity makes it a top choice for professionals seeking long-term corporate careers. This guide explores career opportunities at Unilever South Africa, including salary expectations, job requirements, and how to apply for a role with this top global employer.

Job Description & Details  

Unilever’s significant presence in South Africa includes manufacturing plants, offices, and sales teams. The company produces and distributes products across key sectors, including:

• Home Care: Products like Omo and Sunlight.
• Personal Care: Brands such as Dove, Lux, and Axe.
• Foods and Refreshments: Knorr, Lipton, and Hellmann’s.

These sectors require a diverse range of professionals, from marketing and sales experts to supply chain specialists and product developers, making Unilever an ideal company for those seeking growth and career advancement.

• Social Worker and Administrative Officer | Western Cape Government

Popular Career Opportunities at Unilever South Africa

Unilever offers a variety of roles, catering to both fresh graduates and experienced professionals. Here are some of the most sought-after roles at Unilever:

1. Marketing and Brand Management

Unilever is known for its strong focus on brand building and innovation. Marketing roles include brand managers, digital marketing experts, and consumer insight analysts who work to grow Unilever’s market presence.

2. Supply Chain and Operations

Supply chain roles include logistics managers, procurement specialists, production planners, and operations managers who ensure the smooth manufacturing and distribution of Unilever products.

3. Sales and Customer Development

Sales professionals at Unilever work with retailers, distributors, and partners to grow the company’s market share. Sales managers, account executives, and customer development officers are crucial to driving Unilever’s success.

4. Finance, Human Resources, and IT

Unilever’s support functions include finance officers, HR business partners, and IT professionals who keep the company’s operations running smoothly behind the scenes.

5. Research and Development (R&D)

Unilever invests heavily in innovation. R&D professionals, including scientists, food technologists, and product developers, work on creating and improving products that meet consumer needs.

Salaries at Unilever South Africa

Salaries at Unilever are competitive and vary depending on the role, experience, and location. Unilever also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including healthcare, pension, and bonuses.

General Salary Expectations:

• Marketing and Brand Management: R350,000 – R900,000 per year.
• Supply Chain and Operations: R300,000 – R850,000 per year.
• Sales and Customer Development: R350,000 – R800,000 per year.
• Finance, HR, and IT: R400,000 – R900,000 per year.
• Research and Development (R&D): R400,000 – R950,000 per year.

Salary Breakdown for Specific Roles

1. Marketing and Sales Salaries

• Brand Manager: R550,000 – R900,000 per year.
• Sales Manager: R450,000 – R800,000 per year.

2. Supply Chain and Operations Salaries

• Supply Chain Manager: R500,000 – R850,000 per year.
• Procurement Specialist: R300,000 – R600,000 per year.

3. Finance and IT Salaries

• Finance Manager: R550,000 – R900,000 per year.
• IT Analyst: R400,000 – R700,000 per year.

4. R&D and Product Development Salaries

• R&D Scientist: R500,000 – R950,000 per year.
• Product Developer: R450,000 – R800,000 per year.

Job Requirements at Unilever South Africa

The qualifications and experience required for Unilever jobs depend on the role you’re applying for. Below is an overview of the general requirements for popular roles.

1. Marketing and Sales

• Qualifications: A degree in marketing, business administration, or a related field is typically required.
• Experience: 2-5 years of experience in marketing, brand management, or sales is often preferred, though graduate positions are available for entry-level candidates.

2. Supply Chain and Operations

• Qualifications: A degree in supply chain management, logistics, engineering, or operations management is required.
• Experience: Mid-level and senior roles may require 3-5 years of experience, but Unilever also offers entry-level graduate programs.

3. Finance, HR, and IT

• Qualifications: A degree in finance, accounting, human resources, or information technology is required.
• Experience: Entry-level roles require minimal experience, but senior roles demand at least 3-7 years in a relevant field.

4. Research and Development (R&D)

• Qualifications: A degree in science, engineering, food technology, or chemistry is necessary.
• Experience: Experience in R&D, product innovation, or technical roles is preferred, especially for mid-level and senior positions.

Skills Needed for Unilever Jobs

• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential for collaboration across teams.
• Leadership and Teamwork: Unilever values individuals who can lead teams or work effectively within them.
• Analytical Skills: Data analysis and problem-solving skills are critical in roles like marketing, finance, and operations.
• Technical Expertise: For IT, R&D, and supply chain roles, technical skills related to the field are crucial.

Benefits of Working for Unilever

Unilever offers an array of benefits designed to promote work-life balance and career development:

• Career Development: Unilever invests in employee training, leadership programs, and mentoring opportunities.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Healthcare, pension plans, bonuses, and paid leave are part of Unilever’s benefits package.
• Diversity and Inclusion: Unilever is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse work environment.
• Innovation and Sustainability: Unilever provides opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects, particularly in sustainability and environmental impact.

How to Apply for Unilever Jobs in South Africa

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for Unilever jobs:

1. Search for Job Openings: Visit the Unilever careers page or job search websites to find open positions.
2. Prepare Your Documents: Ensure you have an updated CV, a customized cover letter, and any relevant certifications.
3. Submit Your Application: Follow the instructions on the Unilever job portal and submit your application online.
4. Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV to highlight the skills and experience relevant to the specific job you’re applying for.
5. Track Your Application: Unilever provides an option to track the status of your application via their job portal.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasize skills that are important for the role, such as leadership, problem-solving, and innovation.
• Customize Your CV: Tailor your application to the specific position, focusing on relevant experience and achievements.
• Network: Engage with current or former Unilever employees to gain insights and referrals.

Final Thoughts & Mode of Application   

A career at Unilever South Africa offers growth, innovation, and the chance to make a difference. With opportunities across sectors and a focus on sustainability, diversity, and development, Unilever is an ideal employer.