Name: Marina A.
Hometown: Togliatti, Russia
Office Location: Cincinnati, OH
University: St. Petersburg State University of Economics and Finance (BA) & University of Cincinnati (MBA)
Major: Performing Arts (BA), MBA with concentration in Leadership and Management
Start Date: January 25, 2022
Starting Role: Consumer Researcher, Development Program
Describe your role.
One of the focus areas of my role is multi-supplier studies. I support scoping, execution, and analysis of research projects that help our clients to build strategy at Kroger. Another big part of my role is being an account manager for 84.51° In-Queries – a DIY research tool. It includes onboarding new users, helping them to navigate the platform, and consulting on best consumer research practices to ensure that our stakeholders get the most value out of this solution.
What was your experience like in the Development Program?
I enjoyed being a part of 84.51° Development Program cohort! This program not only helped me to prepare for my role on the Consumer Research team, but also gave me a unique opportunity to build valuable connections across our organization. By the end of my three-month long curriculum, I was exposed to many areas of our business and was ready to hit the ground running.
How do you believe the 84.51° Development Program compares to other comparable programs?
I think 84.51° Development Program creates a no-pressure environment for new grads which is crucial for gaining confidence and unlocking potential. Throughout the Program, you are directly supported by multiple people – a program lead, a grad buddy, and a function buddy. They help you to meet people on your team and get familiar with the organization, so you never feel like you must figure it out on your own.
How do you believe the Development Program equipped you for success at 84.51°?
The Program is packed with foundational knowledge necessary for success at 84.51°. I can confidently say that 84.51° Development Program helped me excel as a professional through balanced development of technical and soft skills.
What did you learn from the Development Program that you have transferred into your current role?
While I learned many skills that directly apply to my role, my program and function leads also encouraged me to use my time in the Development Program to get a solid grasp on our core values – Limitless Minds, Fearless Hearts, and Relentless Delivery. Now, I lean on these behaviors every single day and they are just as important as the technical knowledge.
Is there anything you wish you had known about the Development Program prior to enrolling?
Do not get discouraged if you do not know something! 84.51° values curiosity, desire to learn, diversity of thought and creativity so anyone who embodies those qualities has a chance to succeed here and the Development Program is the best place to start.
What has been the most memorable experience or favorite project you’ve worked on?
Being a part of “Research on Research” project that explored capabilities and benefits of behaviorally-verified targeting in consumer research projects. It was one of my first projects out of the Development Program and a challenging one. The result of this work was presented during an industry conference that I was able to attend. It was very inspiring to see how something that I worked on is used to prove and elevate 84.51°’s value proposition in the market!
__What advice would you give students who are interested in working in the consumer research industry? __
I feel like market research is a combination of science and art. You must think creatively about what might be driving certain behaviors but also be able to ground your hypothesis in data. Take some market research classes or get familiar with research tools and methodologies. Then, try to gain some experience by applying that knowledge in your school projects or even in your day-to-day life. It doesn’t have to be complicated. For example, help your professor to launch a class satisfaction survey. Most researchers acquire deep technical knowledge and master advanced research methodologies as they progress in their careers so don’t feel like you must know everything!
What’s your favorite part about working at 84.51°? Do you have a favorite benefit or perk that is offered?
The culture and the community! Everyone I work with is extremely smart and talented but also supportive and encouraging. I feel like I learn something new and grow professionally every day. We also know how to have fun and come together as a team in a meaningful way! Lastly, I really appreciate 84.51°’s emphasis on work-life balance and well-being. We have tons of support resources available to us which I have used more than once!
What do you like to do in your free time outside of work hours?
I like to spend time outside with my dog – he keeps me active and always manages to boost my mood. It’s a win-win! Also, I enjoy exploring the city and trying new restaurants/bars with my friends, but, if I want to do something on my own, I visit local museums, Cincinnati Music Hall or catch a movie.