MBA Marketing Intern

Graco•Dayton, MN

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Graco manufactures and markets premium equipment to move, measure, control, dispense and spray a wide variety of fluid and powder materials. The Graco Intern Program offers more than just work experience—it’s a chance to make an impact. As an intern, you’ll take on projects that matter to the business, contribute to initiatives that drive progress, and develop skills that prepare you for what’s ahead. Throughout the program, you’ll expand your industry knowledge, collaborate with professionals who are passionate about doing things the right way, and experience a culture that thrives on new ideas and continual growth. You’ll also take part in events designed to support both your learning and personal development. The program concludes with a final presentation where you’ll showcase your achievements and the difference you’ve made. The purpose of this position is to provide immersive, strategic-level experience within Graco’s Category Marketing team. At Graco, Category Marketing focuses on understanding and growing specific customer segments and industries (often referred to as market verticals), helping the business identify opportunities, understand customer needs, and shape strategies that drive growth. In this role, the intern will lead a defined strategic project for an assigned customer segment under the mentorship of the Director of Category Marketing. The intern will leverage market research, Voice of Customer (VOC) insights, competitive analysis, and go-to-market strategy to address a real business challenge. The experience culminates in the development and presentation of a strategic recommendation to Graco’s Executive Leadership Team. This internship is designed for MBA candidates seeking a long-term career in category marketing, product marketing, strategic marketing, or general management. This summer internship is centered on a high-value strategic project that addresses a real business opportunity or challenge within an assigned category and which has the potential to shape future growth initiatives. The project is supplemented by exposure to the broader category marketing function and close collaboration with cross-functional partners, including product management, channel marketing, corporate marketing, and sales. The internship culminates in a strategic recommendation presented to senior internship.

Requirements

Currently pursuing an MBA, with an expected graduation date within 12–18 months of the internship
Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business Administration, or a related field
Prior experience in marketing, business strategy, or vertical-specific market development (internship or professional) preferred
Team collaborator with experience working in multi-functional or global team settings
Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret and synthesize VOC insights and market research into clear recommendations
Excellent communication and presentation skills, including comfort presenting to senior leadership
Ability to manage ambiguity and drive a project forward with limited day-to-day direction
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
This role is not eligible for immigration sponsorship now or in the future (e.g., H-1B, TN, F-1 OPT).

Responsibilities

Lead a high-impact strategic project focused on a real business opportunity or challenge within an assigned customer segment or industry.
Work closely with a Category Marketing leader to define the project scope, conduct analysis, and develop recommendations.
Apply market research, customer insights, and business strategy concepts to address a meaningful business question.
Develop and present a final recommendation to senior leaders at the conclusion of the internship.
Conduct market, customer, and competitive research to better understand industry trends and customer needs.
Analyze Voice of Customer (VOC) feedback and other data sources to identify key insights and opportunities.
Learn how customer and market insights are used to shape business and marketing strategies.
Collaborate with teams across product management, sales, channel marketing, and corporate marketing.
Gain exposure to how strategy is developed and translated into product launches, marketing campaigns, and commercial execution.
Coordinate with internal subject matter experts to validate research findings and assumptions.
Participate in team meetings, project reviews, and business discussions to better understand Graco's growth strategy.
Build skills in strategic thinking, business analysis, executive communication, and problem solving.
Receive coaching and mentorship from experienced marketing leaders throughout the internship.
Develop and deliver a professional executive-level presentation summarizing project findings and recommendations.
Other duties and learning opportunities as assigned.