Market Research and Strategy, MBA Intern - Summer 2025

As a Market Research and Strategy, MBA Intern at Visa, you will be responsible for conducting comprehensive market research, analyzing industry trends relevant to community banks and credit unions, and identifying potential opportunities for acquiring new clients. You will work closely with 3rd party consultants during negotiations and assist in creating frameworks for engaging these consultants. Additionally, you will support the sales strategy process by participating in meetings and contributing innovative ideas to enhance client engagement and outreach.

To qualify for the Market Research and Strategy, MBA Internship at Visa, applicants must be pursuing an MBA or related Master's degree with a graduation date in December 2025 or later, and have at least 4 years of relevant work experience. Strong communication skills and analytical abilities, along with basic proficiency in Excel, are also essential. Candidates with degrees in Marketing, Economics, Finance, or General Business will find their backgrounds particularly relevant.

During your time as a Market Research and Strategy, MBA Intern at Visa, you will develop a variety of skills including advanced analytical and strategic thinking capabilities, proficiency in data interpretation, and storytelling through data. Additionally, you will enhance your communication skills, professional judgment, and understanding of the payments industry, which are invaluable assets for pursuing a successful career post-internship.

While experience in the payments industry is preferred for the Market Research and Strategy internship at Visa, it is not a strict requirement. What truly matters is your ability to analyze data, market trends, and effectively communicate findings. An inquisitive nature and a willingness to learn about the payments landscape can also greatly contribute to your success in this role.

The working environment for the Market Research and Strategy, MBA Intern at Visa is hybrid, allowing you the flexibility to work both remotely and in the office. This setup not only enhances work-life balance but also fosters collaboration with your team members. Expect a dynamic and inclusive culture where your contributions are valued and supported by experienced professionals who are eager to share their knowledge.

When discussing your approach to market research for community banks and credit unions, emphasize your methodical process of gathering data, analyzing trends, and identifying actionable insights. Share specific techniques you would use, such as surveys, financial reports, and industry research, to illustrate your depth of understanding and analytical skills essential for the Market Research and Strategy role at Visa.

When asked about a successful project, share a detailed example that demonstrates your leadership and analytical skills. Focus on your role, the challenges you faced, the actions you took to address them, and the results you achieved. This should align with responsibilities related to client engagement, data analysis, or strategy enhancement typical of a Market Research and Strategy intern at Visa.

Discuss specific data analysis techniques such as SWOT analysis, trend forecasting, or competitive analysis. Explain why you choose these methods and how they have proven effective in deriving insights from data, particularly in the context of community banks or credit unions. Relate this back to how these skills will be beneficial in the Market Research and Strategy role at Visa.

Addressing disagreements effectively showcases your ability to collaborate and communicate. Discuss the importance of maintaining professionalism, actively listening, and finding common ground. Illustrate this by referencing a real-life scenario where you successfully navigated conflict, and how this approach aligns with Visa's commitment to teamwork and client success.

Highlight your experience in preparing and delivering presentations, especially regarding market research findings or strategic recommendations. Share examples of how these skills have impacted your previous projects, emphasizing clear, concise communication tailored to various audiences, which is crucial for the Market Research and Strategy intern position at Visa.

Express your passion for the intersection of finance and technology, and how Visa's commitment to innovation aligns with your career aspirations. Discuss specific aspects of the financial technology sector that inspire you, such as the potential for positive economic impact, and relate this enthusiasm back to the role of Market Research and Strategy intern.

Describe your approach to prioritization, such as breaking down tasks based on deadlines and importance. You might mention tools or methods you use, like time management techniques or project management software, while connecting this to the multi-faceted responsibilities you expect in the Market Research and Strategy internship at Visa.

When responding to this question, reflect on industry trends, such as digital transformation, competition from fintechs, or regulatory challenges that community banks face. Position your answer with insights that indicate your understanding of the market landscape and how you would apply that knowledge in the Market Research and Strategy internship.

Discuss the techniques you would employ to analyze competitors, such as market share analysis, product comparison, or customer feedback aggregation. Emphasize your analytical capabilities and how these skills will enable you to contribute effectively to Visa's goals in the Market Research and Strategy internship.

Be prepared to discuss Visa’s mission, innovative spirit, and the unique opportunities it provides in the financial technology industry. Relate your personal career goals to Visa's objectives, showing how you're excited about making meaningful contributions while gaining valuable experience during your tenure as a Market Research and Strategy intern.