Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) (www.CCBAGroup.com) has welcomed over 60 emerging leaders from its African markets to the Ascend Leaders in Training programme, an 18-month accelerated leadership journey designed to uncover talent and develop the continent's next generation of business leaders.
Running from March 2026 to August 2027, the program offers young talents from Botswana, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia a structured pathway into leadership roles within one of Africa’s most admired consumer goods companies. This initiative reflects CCBA's commitment to unique professional development, providing an exciting journey of learning and development within a passionate, caring team.
Participants coming from diverse academic backgrounds including business, engineering, supply chain, marketing and finance will gain on-the-ground experience in key business functions such as supply chain, commercial, finance, public affairs, communications and sustainability (PACS), and people and culture. While working in their home markets, they will also be part of the wider Pan-African learning community.
“Whenever I enjoy Coke, I often wonder 'Where does it come from? How is it made?'. Now I have an incredible opportunity to learn everything that goes in that little bottle of Coke,” said Lathitha Madibi, a member of the Ascend group in South Africa.
“My first week on the program has been exciting and eye-opening. Experiencing the environment first-hand has made me appreciate the scale and coordination behind CCBA's operations. Seeing how different teams and functions work together to keep everything running smoothly has been particularly insightful.” Dawit Yared was added to the Ethiopia group.
The Ascendant program provides rotational work, guidance from experienced leaders, and exposure to real business challenges. Leaders in training will work on projects that drive business growth, build professional credibility and strengthen their preparation for leadership roles. Those who successfully complete the program may be considered for permanent positions within the CCBA Group with greater responsibility and long-term career prospects.
“CCBA’s Ascend program is designed to give emerging leaders the opportunity to learn fast, lead early, and make meaningful impact,” said Natasa Prodanovic, CCBA’s chief people and culture officer.
He added, “At CCBA, we don't just offer them a job – we provide them a platform to grow, take ownership and shape the future of the largest bottler of Coca-Cola products in Africa. This group reflects the talent, diversity and ambition that will define the next chapter of our organisation.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Coca-Cola Beverages Africa.
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About CCBA:
CCBA is the world's eighth-largest Coca-Cola authorized bottler by revenue, and the largest on the continent. This accounts for over 40% of all Coca-Cola ready-to-drink beverages sold by volume in Africa. With over 13,000 employees in Africa, CCBA Group serves over 840,000 customers with many international and local brands. CCBA Group operates in 14 countries: South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Mozambique, Namibia, Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi and Comoros and the islands of Mayotte.
Learn more here https://www.CCBAGroup.com