Design for Lifetime Value like a Visa PMM

Most PMMs don't track customer lifetime value, but we absolutely should. When you understand CLV, every trade-off becomes crystal clear—you know exactly where to focus your energy and can shape strategies around what actually retains your best customers. 
Today we're diving into how Visa built their lifecycle marketing practice from scratch, turning one-and-done transactions into proper repeat engagement.

Terry Setiz joins me with 20+ years at Coca-Cola, HBO, Hasbro, and Visa. Here's what surprised me: Visa isn't a credit card company—they're a payment tech powerhouse (obvious, once you think about it!). Terry’s team embraced e-commerce with Visa Checkout, smashed down silos between marketing and IT, and created the genius 'One Hand' campaign featuring NFL stars making touchdowns while checking out simultaneously.

Terry's golden advice? Stop treating product launches like tick-box exercises. Think long game, experiment like a mad scientist, and don't be scared to pivot when data tells you to. His approach proves that understanding your market and solid KPIs keep everyone aligned whilst building for both today's wins and tomorrow's growth.

For our messaging critique segment of the show, Terry chose Modelo Beer as our subject. He praises their authentic tagline 'Brewed for those with a fighting spirit' for genuinely resonating with working-class audiences who take pride in hard work. However, he warns against generic sponsorships and endless product extensions that could water down their strong brand identity.

Terry brings us a masterclass in turning CLV insights into actionable strategy. Consider this your guide to understanding how your customers' true long-term value can transform every strategic decision you make as a PMM.

Key Takeaways:
  • CLV clarity transforms every PMM decision because you finally know the actual long-term payoff, not just vanity metrics.
  • Breaking down silos between marketing and IT creates go-to-market magic that addresses real needs whilst making life easier for users.
  • Treat launches as continuous journeys focused on repeat engagement rather than forgettable one-time events.
  • Creative campaigns with relatable stories demolish feature-focused messaging, especially when solving actual pain points.
  • Strategic KPI alignment with executives keeps long-term vision intact whilst smashing immediate growth targets.

Terry’s Formula:

Customer Lifetime Value = (Average Purchase Value x Purchase Frequency x Customer Lifespan)


LINKS

Modelo Beer:
https://www.modelousa.com/

Connect with Terry:


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Design for Lifetime Value like a Visa PMM
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