Visa reimagines early talent development

Visa reimagines early talent development

We visited Visa’s London office to fully capture the transformative impact of these degree apprenticeships. We met with apprentices, their managers, and the early careers leader. Their insights revealed a significant departure from traditional graduate training routes.

The degree apprenticeship at Visa is a powerful blend of on-the-job experience, academic learning, structured mentorship, and industry-recognised qualifications upon completion. This programme is built to propel graduates into leadership roles within the fast-paced world of digital payments and is a blueprint for the future of early talent development.

From learning to leadership

Visa’s Degree Apprenticeships are reshaping what early talent development looks like. Apprentices describe how the programme has given them a unique blend of real-world experience, academic learning, and mentorship – empowering them to take ownership of their careers from day one.

For some, it’s about broad exposure: “Every six months I rotate into a new department, and each role gives me fresh skills and a clearer vision for where I want to grow.” For others, it’s about purpose and independence: “I chose this route to avoid debt and to apply what I learn straight away – the impact is immediate.”

The benefits extend beyond the apprentices themselves. Managers and mentors highlight how these programmes bring fresh perspectives into their teams, widen the talent pool, and build a more diverse pipeline for the future of digital payments. This combination of curiosity, confidence, and practical capability is shaping the next generation of leaders.

With each apprentice who learns, applies, and shares, Visa proves that early talent can drive lasting transformation – turning potential into excellence and setting a new standard for the industry.