PPS Opens a 24-Month Graduate Internship for Aspiring Financial Advisors

PPS is recruiting for a 24-month Graduate Intern: Financial Advisor programme, reference PPS260914-1, closing on 15 December 2026. The advert describes a February start and a pathway towards commission-earning advisory work.

Who can apply for the PPS internship?

Applicants need Matric and a relevant NQF Level 7 or higher commercial/legal qualification, completed or due for completion during 2026. Financial-planning postgraduate study is preferred. Candidates must be South African citizens younger than 34. Foreign qualifications need a SAQA evaluation certificate. Previous insurance-industry INSETA internship/graduate-programme participants are ineligible; no work experience is required.

Work involves finding clients, cold calling, advice, proposals and ongoing support. Locations include Johannesburg and outlying Durban, Gqeberha and Cape Town areas. The advert does not publish a stipend amount.

Use the official PPS vacancy page, which directs applicants to an InterviewME video interview.

Decide whether client-facing work suits you

The following is Reign Gigs preparation advice, not additional PPS selection criteria.

Think carefully about the work you want to do each day. A finance qualification can lead to very different roles. Write down whether you enjoy initiating conversations, explaining ideas, following up with people and handling rejection professionally. Use those reflections to make an informed application rather than applying only because a role contains the word “finance”.

Prepare an example of listening before proposing an answer. Describe a situation where asking a better question changed your understanding of someone’s needs. This could come from a project, volunteering or part-time work. Avoid disclosing another person’s private financial information in a CV or interview story.

For a recorded interview, test your microphone, camera and internet connection in advance. Choose a quiet setting and keep brief prompts nearby instead of reading a script word for word. Answer the actual question, state your example clearly and leave time to explain the result. Review any platform instructions before starting, including limits on preparation time or repeat recordings.

Be precise about academic completion. If you are awaiting results, give the expected date honestly and keep supporting information ready. Ensure your qualification title and institution match across your CV, certificates and online application. Do not imply that academic study alone authorises you to provide regulated advice.

When evaluating an offer, request a written explanation of how remuneration works during and after the programme. Ask about any fixed component, performance conditions, expenses, training support and transition arrangements. Build a personal budget from confirmed figures. Do not assume that a potential future career route amounts to a guaranteed permanent appointment or guaranteed income.

Prepare thoughtful questions about supervision and feedback. Find out how a new participant is supported when they encounter a question beyond their knowledge. A willingness to ask for help and work within agreed boundaries can be more useful than trying to appear capable of answering every client question immediately.

Frequently asked questions

What makes a useful motivation statement?

A specific reason for the career choice, supported by an example of communication, persistence or learning. Avoid promises about sales results you cannot substantiate.

Should I prepare a lengthy speech?

No. Practise short, clear answers and adapt them to the question. Keep your examples accurate and consistent with your application.

Compare different finance careers

The Mukuru Treasury internship describes a different finance pathway centred on cash flow and financial controls. PPS’s advertised role involves client acquisition and advisory work. Compare daily responsibilities and career fit, not just the shared finance label.

Independent publisher: Reign Gigs is not PPS and is not hiring. Apply through the official employer route.