Essential Job Details

Internship Program Overview

• Program Title: ESL Future Leadership Internship Program – 15th Cohort
• Locations: Mombasa and Nairobi, Kenya
• Employment Type: Internship
• Duration: Structured period (specific timeline to be communicated during onboarding)
• Departments: ICT, Ships Agency, Operations, Finance, Projects, Warehousing, Legal
• Industries: Maritime Logistics, Finance, Supply Chain, Technology, Legal Services
• Deadline for Application: 21st May 2025

Introduction

Are you looking for a career-defining opportunity to immerse yourself in Kenya’s dynamic logistics, maritime, legal, and technology sectors? The ESL Future Leadership Internship Program – 15th Cohort provides an unmatched platform for ambitious students and recent graduates to launch their careers within one of East Africa’s most reputable logistics companies.

Established in 2015, this internship program has consistently served as a talent incubator, empowering young professionals with the skills, mentorship, and exposure needed to thrive in today’s complex work environments. ESL is proud to announce new openings under its 15th cohort—a strategic initiative tailored to align academic potential with real-time workplace demands across various functions.

This program is ideal for individuals seeking structured learning, practical training, and a chance to work alongside cross-functional teams that are shaping the future of African logistics and global trade facilitation. If you’re proactive, eager to grow, and passionate about being part of transformative operations, then the ESL Future Leadership Program is the career gateway you’ve been waiting for.

About ESL East Africa

Express Shipping & Logistics (ESL) East Africa Ltd is a leading regional logistics and shipping solutions provider with deep-rooted expertise in port operations, cargo handling, warehousing, customs clearance, supply chain optimization, and value-added logistics services. Headquartered in Mombasa with satellite offices in Nairobi, Uganda, and Tanzania, ESL serves as a critical conduit for trade across East and Central Africa.

Over the past two decades, ESL has become synonymous with efficiency, reliability, and customized logistics services—supporting thousands of clients from various industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, construction, energy, and development sectors.

The company’s internship and training programs are integral to its mission to nurture top-tier talent. ESL believes in mentorship, skills transfer, and the development of tomorrow’s industry leaders through immersive, on-the-ground learning experiences. By joining this cohort, you become part of a legacy of excellence, growth, and regional impact.

Internship Positions Available – 15th Cohort

• ICT Intern (Mombasa).
• Ships Agency Intern (Mombasa).
• Operations Intern (Mombasa).
• Operations Intern (Nairobi).
• Finance Intern (Mombasa).
• Projects Intern (Mombasa).
• Warehouse Intern (Mombasa).
• Legal Intern (Mombasa).

The following internship positions are now open for the 15th Cohort of the ESL Future Leadership Program:

Mombasa-Based Opportunities

1. ICT Intern

• Support development, deployment, and maintenance of in-house IT systems.
• Assist in configuring workstations, managing user access, resolving network issues, and offering basic cybersecurity support.
• Work with design/communications teams on digital branding where applicable.

2. Ships Agency Intern

• Participate in port documentation, ship arrival/departure scheduling, and liaison with port officials.
• Learn about berth bookings, pilotage, bunkering, and cargo documentation.
• Support customer service and client onboarding processes for ship owners/operators.

3. Operations Intern

• Learn cargo tracking, truck dispatching, and clearance documentation.
• Support in preparing reports on inbound and outbound shipments.
• Assist in operational compliance and incident response coordination.

4. Finance Intern

• Engage in invoicing, reconciliations, ledger postings, and petty cash tracking.
• Assist with regulatory reporting, audit support, and budgeting activities.
• Learn to use financial systems and data dashboards for performance monitoring.

5. Projects Intern (Engineering)

• Work on infrastructure upgrades, process flow design, and site assessments.
• Assist engineers in drafting BOQs, construction supervision, and progress reporting.
• Exposure to sustainability assessments and project procurement support.

6. Warehouse Intern

• Monitor stock levels, issue and receive goods, update inventory software.
• Engage in cycle counts, packaging audits, and vendor deliveries.
• Assist in warehouse optimization and health/safety checks.

7. Legal Intern

• Assist in contract drafting, legal research, and case documentation.
• Engage in compliance checks, due diligence, and risk assessments.
• Exposure to commercial law, maritime regulation, and employment law matters.

Nairobi-Based Opportunity

8. Operations Intern (Nairobi)

• Support urban logistics coordination including last-mile delivery, cargo tracking.
• Assist in documentation for customs clearance, order fulfillment.
• Prepare internal reports and liaise with clients on shipment progress.

Eligibility Criteria

ESL welcomes applications from passionate, qualified individuals who meet the following criteria:

General Qualifications for All Positions

• Certificate, Diploma, or Degree from a recognized institution in the relevant field.
• Demonstrable interest in logistics, maritime, engineering, ICT, law, finance, or supply chain management.
• Applicants must not be currently employed or under other internship programs.

Specific Role-Based Academic Qualifications

• ICT Intern:
  Information Technology, Computer Science, Graphic Design, Marketing, or Communications with strong IT skills.
• Ships Agency Intern:
  Maritime Studies, ICS Certification, and background in Ship Operations or Customer Service.
• Operations Intern (Mombasa & Nairobi):
  Logistics specialization; KESRA certification in customs, trade facilitation is a plus.
• Finance Intern:
  BCom, Accounting, Finance, Commerce, Business Administration, or Economics.
• Projects Intern:
  Civil Engineering (Degree) or related construction management qualifications.
• Warehouse Intern:
  Supply Chain, Logistics, Procurement, or Warehousing Management.
• Legal Intern:
  Bachelor of Laws (LLB), currently pursuing Advocates Training Program at KSL.

Preferred Personal Attributes

Successful applicants should demonstrate the following behavioral and soft skills:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• High self-drive, professionalism, and attention to detail.
• Strong interpersonal and teamwork ability.
• Demonstrated problem-solving capacity.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively.
• Willingness to learn new systems and contribute meaningfully to teams.

Learning Outcomes and Exposure Areas

Interns selected through this program will:

• Gain real-time exposure to cross-functional business operations within the logistics and maritime ecosystem.
• Learn document processing, inventory handling, systems entry, financial documentation, engineering reports, and legal frameworks.
• Participate in performance reviews, check-in sessions, and skills-building forums.
• Receive a completion certificate and recommendation letter upon satisfactory completion.
• Be considered for future employment opportunities based on performance.

Benefits of Joining the ESL Future Leadership Program

• Structured learning pathway for each function
• Hands-on mentorship from seasoned industry professionals
• Opportunity to network with logistics and supply chain leaders
• Build technical and analytical skills required in your career path
• Direct exposure to clients, government agencies, suppliers, and contractors
• Contribution to key ESG goals including gender inclusion, youth employment, and regional economic empowerment

How to Apply

Application Process

To apply for the 15th Cohort of the ESL Future Leadership Program:

1. Click the link below to access the application portal:
   ESL Internship Application Form
2. Complete the online form in full, specifying:
   • Internship role you are applying for
   • Preferred location (Mombasa or Nairobi)
   • Educational background and field of study
   • Any relevant attachments (CV, academic transcripts, certificates)
3. Submit before the deadline:
   21st May 2025

Important Notes

• Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
• ESL is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be evaluated based on merit.
• Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly for interviews.
• Female applicants and those from marginalized counties are strongly encouraged to apply.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is the internship paid?
A: Details regarding stipends or allowances will be communicated during interviews or onboarding, depending on the role.

Q: Can I apply for more than one internship?
A: Candidates may only apply for one internship role. Choose the area that best aligns with your training and career goals.

Q: Will I receive a certificate?
A: Yes. Upon successful completion of the internship, you will be issued an official certificate of completion from ESL East Africa.

Q: I am awaiting graduation—can I still apply?
A: Yes, as long as you meet the academic qualifications listed and can provide evidence of completion or transcripts.

Q: How competitive is the selection process?
A: ESL receives hundreds of applications per cohort, so candidates are encouraged to present themselves clearly, professionally, and accurately.

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