FTI Consulting advertised a 2027 Graduate Placement in Strategic Communications for recent graduates and students completing their studies in South Africa. The opportunity is based in Johannesburg and offers a one-year, full-time placement starting in January or February 2027.
The programme is designed for graduates interested in building careers in strategic communications, corporate reputation, public affairs, media relations, stakeholder engagement and consulting. Successful candidates will work alongside experienced consultants and support major companies and state-owned entities across different industries. The placement also includes structured training, professional mentorship, coaching and exposure to real client projects.
The opportunity is particularly relevant to graduates with strong research, analytical, writing, digital and communication skills.
Important deadline update: The advertised application deadline was 29 October 2026. Although the official careers portal displayed 30 October 2026 as its end date, the vacancy announcement specified 29 October. Both dates have passed as of 2 November 2026. Applicants should check the official careers page to establish whether the vacancy has been reopened.
About FTI Consulting
FTI Consulting is a global expert firm that helps organisations address complex business challenges, crises, risks and transformation.
The company works with multinational corporations, law firms, banks, private equity firms and other major organisations, providing specialised advice and strategic solutions.
Its Strategic Communications practice advises clients on corporate reputation, stakeholder engagement, government relations, media relations, public affairs and issues management.
In South Africa, the Johannesburg team works with major national and international companies, helping them navigate regulatory developments, political and economic changes, reputational risks and stakeholder concerns.
The graduate placement provides an opportunity to understand how research, strategic communications and stakeholder engagement contribute to business decision-making.
FTI Consulting Graduate Placement Details
| Opportunity | Details |
|---|---|
| Company | FTI Consulting |
| Programme | 2027 Graduate Placement |
| Department | Strategic Communications |
| Position | Graduate Consultant |
| Location | Johannesburg, South Africa |
| Duration | One year |
| Work arrangement | Full-time, hybrid |
| Starting period | January/February 2027 |
| Closing date | 29 October 2026 |
| Reference number | JR260669 |
| Remuneration | Not specified |
What the Graduate Consultant Will Do
The successful candidate will support experienced consultants and client teams in research, strategy development, communications and project delivery.
The main responsibilities include:
1. Conducting Research and Analysis
The graduate will gather, interpret and analyse information from different sources, including media reports, policy developments and market intelligence.
This research will help consulting teams understand market conditions, public sentiment, competitive environments and emerging issues affecting their clients.
2. Supporting Communications Campaigns
The role involves assisting with the development and implementation of strategic communications campaigns.
Activities may include digital content development, media engagement, stakeholder outreach and supporting the execution of communication strategies.
Graduates will gain experience translating strategic recommendations into coordinated communication activities.
3. Preparing Reports and Presentations
The Graduate Consultant will contribute to preparing reports, presentations and recommendations for clients.
Strong analytical thinking and writing abilities will be important when converting complex information into clear and persuasive messages that support client decision-making.
4. Participating in Structured Training
Participants will undertake a structured learning programme covering important areas of strategic communications, including:
- Media relations.
- Crisis communications.
- Public policy analysis.
- Digital strategy.
- Strategic communications.
The knowledge gained through training will be applied to live client projects.
5. Receiving Mentorship and Professional Guidance
Each graduate will be paired with a mentor who will provide guidance, feedback and professional support throughout the placement.
Participants will also have opportunities to interact with senior leaders and colleagues across FTI Consulting, helping them establish professional relationships and develop their consulting skills.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the FTI Consulting Graduate Placement, applicants were required to meet the following basic qualifications:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree or be studying towards an honours or master’s degree.
- Have graduated between 2025 and 2026 or be expecting to graduate in 2027.
- Be available for a one-year, full-time placement at the Johannesburg office from January or February 2027.
Candidates from different academic backgrounds were encouraged to apply, particularly those with strong analytical, research, digital and communication skills.
Preferred Fields of Study
FTI Consulting identified the following academic disciplines as relevant to the opportunity:
- Law.
- Economics.
- Business.
- Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
- Engineering.
- Computer Science.
- Political Science.
- International Relations.
- Public Policy.
- Journalism.
- Development Studies.
- Other related disciplines.
Applicants with knowledge of or experience in digital work could have an advantage.
The company also values the following qualities:
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Effective time management and self-organisation.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Strong work ethic and a positive attitude.
- Interest in current affairs, public policy and business issues.
Professional Development and Career Opportunities
The graduate placement is designed to help participants develop the practical knowledge and professional skills required to become effective consultants and trusted advisers.
Graduates benefit from on-the-job learning, professional development courses, certifications and regular coaching sessions.
A dedicated coach will provide guidance and support as participants develop their consulting capabilities.
The programme also provides exposure to different clients, industries and consulting assignments. This experience allows graduates to understand how organisations manage corporate reputation, communicate with stakeholders and respond to complex business challenges.
According to the vacancy announcement, graduates may be considered for continued employment beyond the initial one-year placement, depending on their performance. However, permanent employment is not guaranteed.
FTI Consulting Recruitment and Selection Process
The recruitment process consisted of four stages:
Stage 1: Online Application
Candidates were required to complete the online application form and upload an updated CV. A cover letter was not required.
Stage 2: Recorded Video Interview
Applicants would complete a recorded video interview to demonstrate their understanding of FTI Consulting and the work performed by its Strategic Communications practice.
Stage 3: Virtual Interviews
Shortlisted candidates would participate in two virtual competency-based interviews scheduled between November and early December 2026.
Stage 4: Job Offers
Successful candidates were expected to receive their offers before the end of December 2026.
Application Deadline
The advertised closing date for the FTI Consulting 2027 Graduate Placement in Strategic Communications was 29 October 2026.
The official careers portal also displayed 30 October 2026 as the application end date. Candidates were advised to follow the earlier deadline.
As of 2 November 2026, the advertised deadline has passed.
How to Apply for the FTI Consulting Graduate Placement
Applications were submitted online through the official FTI Consulting careers website.
The original vacancy can be accessed using the link below:
Official Application Link: https://fticonsulting.wd108.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/FTIConsultingCareers/job/XMLNAME-2027–Intern–Strategic-Communications_JR260669
Job Reference: JR260669
Candidates interested in this opportunity should use the official link to check the current recruitment status and whether FTI Consulting is accepting late applications or has reopened the vacancy.
For more graduate programmes, internships, bursaries and job opportunities in South Africa, continue following our latest updates.
