SGS is the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company. SGS is recognized as the global benchmark for quality and integrity. With more than 97,000 employees, SGS operates a network of over 2,600 offices and laboratories around the world.
Job DescriptionSales & Business Development Intern(Testing & Inspection Services)
Location: Cape Town (Maitland)
Division: Connectivity & Products (C&P) Division
Department: Consumer Retail Services (CRS)
About the Opportunity
SGS South Africa is seeking a motivated and ambitious learner who wishes to develop a career in Sales and Business Development within the Testing, Inspection and Certification (TIC) industry.
This role will provide practical exposure to laboratory testing services, client relationship management, business development, and supplier sourcing. The successful candidate will work closely with the CRS team to support client enquiries, identify suitable subcontractors and laboratories, and assist in developing new business opportunities across Southern Africa.
This position is intended as a development opportunity for a candidate seeking long-term employment and career growth within SGS.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with responding to client enquiries relating to testing services.
- Source and engage suitable subcontract laboratories and service providers.
- Obtain quotations and turnaround times from laboratories and subcontractors.
- Support the preparation and submission of customer quotations.
- Maintain and update laboratory and supplier databases.
- Assist with lead generation and business development initiatives.
- Follow up on quotations and customer opportunities.
- Support customer relationship management activities.
- Conduct market research to identify potential customers and new service opportunities.
- Maintain accurate records and reports within company systems.
- Liaise with internal SGS business lines to identify additional service opportunities.
Minimum Requirements
- National Diploma or Degree in Business, Marketing, Sales, Commerce, or a related field.
- Good communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong administrative and organisational abilities.
- Computer literacy, including Microsoft Excel, Word and Outlook.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Strong attention to detail and customer service orientation.
- Valid driver's licence will be advantageous.
Ideal Candidate
We are looking for an individual who:
- Has a genuine interest in Sales and Business Development.
- Enjoys interacting with customers and building relationships.
- Is commercially minded and eager to learn.
- Has an interest in laboratory testing, quality assurance and technical services.
- Is self-motivated, proactive and career focused.
What SGS Offers
- Practical workplace experience in a global organisation.
- Exposure to business development and commercial operations.
- Mentorship and on-the-job training.
- Career development opportunities.
- The potential for long-term employment based on performance and business requirements.
Skills Required
- National Diploma or Degree in Business, Marketing, Sales, Commerce, or a related field
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- Strong administrative and organisational abilities
- Computer literacy, including Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Strong attention to detail and customer service orientation
- Valid driver's licence
SGS Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about SGS and has not been reviewed or approved by SGS.
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Healthcare Strength — Core medical, dental, and vision coverage is part of the U.S. package and is generally viewed as adequate even if not standout. Company information also underscores healthcare coverage as a standard element of the offering.
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Retirement Support — A 401(k) is commonly included in the U.S., and group disclosures reference post‑employment benefit plans in select regions. These components provide a baseline of retirement security beyond core pay.
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Strong & Reliable Incentives — Annual incentive/bonus structures are part of the compensation mix and cited positively in some regions and roles. Punctual pay is also highlighted as a plus.
SGS Insights
What We Do
SGS is the world's leading Testing, Inspection, and Certification company, providing quality and safety control services.
