Associate Consultant, Launch Graduate Program 2027

Mastercard is recruiting graduates for its 18-month Launch Graduate Program in Johannesburg. Associate Consultants join the Advisors & Consulting Services team and work in small teams on real client challenges, with structured learning and mentorship from industry leaders.

What you’ll do:

– Help major brands answer and implement solutions to strategic questions, and own deliverables and client relationships.

– Gain exposure to industries such as financial services, retail, restaurants and hospitality, with a focus on technology and data.

– Work in one of two tracks. Strategy & Transformation covers operating models, market entry, product development and loyalty. Marketing covers data-driven campaigns, customer acquisition and lifecycle value.

– Usually support 1–3 projects at once, each lasting about 8–16 weeks.

Requirements:

– An undergraduate or master’s degree, with graduation expected between November 2026 and August 2027.

– Availability to start in March or September 2027.

– Strong written and spoken English and the ability to explain complex ideas.

– Structured problem-solving and quantitative skills; experience with SQL, SAS, Excel or Tableau is an asset.

– Leadership shown at work or in extracurricular activities, a strong academic record, and a team-first attitude.

Applicants should state their first track preference in their CV. Closing date: apply by 5 November 2026.