2027 Summer Intern - Cannabis Banking (Raleigh, NC)

First Citizens Bank•Raleigh, NC

About The Position

First Citizens Bank's summer internship provides development opportunities and hands-on experience in a corporate environment. As an intern in the Cannabis Banking Division, you will work alongside a team of 11 professionals and learn how financial institutions serve the highly regulated cannabis market. You will gain exposure to FDIC guidelines, compliance requirements, legal considerations, and how the bank supports cannabis-related businesses and generates revenue in this specialized sector. The role offers broad exposure to relationship management, risk assessment, and business strategy. Work may include identifying and developing Centers of Influence, conducting market research, and supporting business development through prospecting, lead generation, and outbound sales. You will also contribute to strategic projects involving operational efficiency, business-process improvement, automation, and scalability, including analyzing workflows and recommending improvements. Interns receive support from a dedicated manager and program manager, attend professional development and networking events, and complete a business-aligned project to present to leaders and stakeholders at the close of the internship. The program runs from May 24, 2027, through July 30, 2027, and requires availability for 40 hours per week.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED and one year of experience.
Currently enrolled at an accredited collegiate institution during the summer program.
Ability to work 40 hours per week for the duration of the program.
Adaptability.
Written and verbal communication skills.
Critical thinking skills.

Nice To Haves

Minimum 3.0 GPA.
Sales experience, including outbound sales.
Proficiency in MS Office.
Currently pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree in Urban Planning/Studies, Business, or Finance.
Strong verbal and written communication skills and a desire to learn and grow.
Positive attitude, natural curiosity, and enjoyment of collaboration.
Ability to multitask.
Ability to adapt and adjust priorities based on business needs.
Ability to take direction and absorb information quickly.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with Cannabis Banking Division colleagues and partners across the organization.
Identify and develop Centers of Influence.
Conduct market research and support business development, including prospecting, lead generation, and outbound sales activities.
Support research, analytics, strategy, projects, process review and improvement, and technology enhancements or support as assigned.
Analyze workflows and recommend process improvements, including opportunities for automation and scalability.
Complete a business-aligned project designed to improve a process or solve a problem, then present it to local leaders and other key stakeholders.
Attend scheduled professional development sessions, informational meetings, networking events, and community service events.
Prepare a wrap-up presentation for the division leader and other key stakeholders outlining internship accomplishments and experience.