Top 15 Business Careers That Make A Lot of Money

The landscape of business jobs is diverse, offering various roles that cater to different skill sets, educational backgrounds, and career aspirations. This guide takes a deep dive into 15 best business jobs, focusing on what each role entails, their median salaries, and their projected job outlook. Integrated into the discussion are key insights, drawn from Bureau of Labor Statistics and other reputable sources, to help you make informed decisions whether you're a business major just entering the business field or considering a career pivot.

What Defines the Best Business Jobs?

The ideal business job blends a lucrative salary, opportunities for career growth, and a promising job outlook. Young professionals often prioritize roles that offer extensive training and educational programs, while seasoned veterans, former business owners and business managers might lean towards jobs offering an excellent work-life balance alongside a substantial income. For the highest paying business jobs, check out this article. For jobs catered towards future entrepreneurs, check out this one.

These numbers represent national averages, which means they are calculated by taking into account a wide range of salaries within each job title. Consequently, these figures may not represent the extremes at either end of the salary distribution.

For example, in roles like Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the salaries can vary drastically. CEOs of Fortune 500 companies often earn multimillion-dollar salaries, which are outliers that can significantly inflate the average. On the opposite end of the spectrum, CEOs of startups or small companies may receive below-average salaries, especially in the early stages of the business, which can bring the average down.

Similarly, roles like Market Research Analyst or Actuarial Analyst can also have wide salary ranges based on the industry, location, and the specific responsibilities within the role.

Therefore, it's crucial to interpret these averages as general guidelines rather than definitive expectations. They serve as a useful starting point for understanding compensation in different career paths, but individual circumstances can and often do vary widely.

Best Business Jobs: The List

1. Receptionist

• National Average Salary: $41,193/year
• Primary Duties: Handles clerical tasks, customer queries, and call management.
• Job Outlook: 4% growth between 2020 and 2030
• Skill Matching: Customer service, multitasking, communication
• Educational Pathways: High school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training
• Career Progression: Administrative Assistant, Executive Assistant, Office Manager

2. Office Manager

• National Average Salary: $53,232/year
• Primary Duties: Oversees administrative roles encompassing human resources, accounting, and day-to-day operations.
• Job Outlook: 9% growth between 2020 and 2030
• Skill Matching: Organizational skills, human resources management, budgeting
• Educational Pathways: Bachelor's degree in business administration, human resources, or related field
• Career Progression: Operations Manager, Human Resources Manager, Administrative Services Manager

3. Public Relations Specialist

• National Average Salary: $54,143/year
• Primary Duties: Manages brand image and communications.
• Job Outlook: 11% growth between 2020 and 2030
• Skill Matching: Media relations, writing, crisis management
• Educational Pathways: Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, or journalism
• Career Progression: Public Relations Manager, Communications Director, Marketing Manager

4. Staff Accountant

• National Average Salary: $54,855/year
• Primary Duties: Maintains financial records and statements.
• Job Outlook: 7% growth between 2020 and 2030
• Skill Matching: Financial reporting, attention to detail, data analysis
• Educational Pathways: Bachelor's degree in accounting or finance; CPA certification can be beneficial
• Career Progression: Senior Accountant, Accounting Manager, Controller

5. Business Coordinator

• National Average Salary: $60,017/year
• Primary Duties: Facilitates planning, monitoring, and implementation of projects.
• Job Outlook: 18% growth between 2020 and 2030
• Skill Matching: Project management, team coordination, planning
• Educational Pathways: Bachelor's degree in business administration or related field
• Career Progression: Project Manager, Operations Manager, Business Development Manager

6. Market Research Analyst

• National Average Salary: $69,962/year
• Primary Duties: Analyzes and plans marketing strategies.
• Job Outlook: 22% growth between 2020 and 2030
• Skill Matching: Data analytics, statistical analysis, communication
• Educational Pathways: Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business, or Statistics
• Career Progression: Senior Market Research Analyst, Market Research Manager, Director of Marketing

7. Sales Manager

• National Average Salary: $73,590/year
• Primary Duties: Manages sales operations and personnel.
• Job Outlook: 7% growth between 2020 and 2030
• Skill Matching: Sales expertise, team leadership, negotiation
• Educational Pathways: Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, or related field
• Career Progression: Regional Sales Manager, Director of Sales, Vice President of Sales

8. Business Analyst

• National Average Salary: $74,028/year
• Primary Duties: Conducts organizational analysis to improve efficiency.
• Job Outlook: 14% growth between 2020 and 2030
• Skill Matching: Data analysis, problem-solving, communication
• Educational Pathways: Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Computer Science, or related field
• Career Progression: Senior Business Analyst, Project Manager, Business Consultant

9. Budget Analyst

• National Average Salary: $79,126/year
• Primary Duties: Manages and organizes company budgets.
• Job Outlook: 5% growth between 2020 and 2030
• Skill Matching: Financial analysis, attention to detail, communication
• Educational Pathways: Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or Business
• Career Progression: Senior Budget Analyst, Finance Manager, Director of Finance

10. Development Director

• National Average Salary: $81,367/year
• Primary Duties: Oversees fundraising and financial partnerships.
• Job Outlook: 11% growth between 2020 and 2030
• Skill Matching: Fundraising, relationship management, strategic planning
• Educational Pathways: Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, or related field
• Career Progression: Senior Development Director, Chief Development Officer, CEO

11. Human Resources Director

• National Average Salary: $90,003/year
• Primary Duties: Manages staff welfare and organizational staffing strategies.
• Job Outlook: 9% growth between 2020 and 2030
• Skill Matching: People management, conflict resolution, legal compliance
• Educational Pathways: Bachelor's degree in Human Resources or related field; SHRM or PHR certifications can be beneficial
• Career Progression: Senior HR Director, Vice President of Human Resources, Chief Human Resources Officer

12. Financial Manager

• National Average Salary: $96,612/year
• Primary Duties: Oversees financial data collection and reporting.
• Job Outlook: 17% growth between 2020 and 2030
• Skill Matching: Financial analysis, leadership, strategic thinking
• Educational Pathways: Bachelor's degree in Finance or Accounting; MBA or CFA can be beneficial
• Career Progression: Director of Finance, Chief Financial Officer, CEO

13. Actuarial Analyst

• National Average Salary: $114,095/year
• Primary Duties: Utilizes statistical theories to assess business risks.
• Job Outlook: 24% growth between 2020 and 2030
• Skill Matching: Statistical analysis, risk assessment, problem-solving
• Educational Pathways: Bachelor's degree in Actuarial Science, Statistics, or Mathematics
• Career Progression: Senior Actuarial Analyst, Actuary, Chief Actuary

14. Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

• National Average Salary: $114,650/year
• Primary Duties: Leads the organization and shapes strategic direction.
• Job Outlook: 8% growth between 2020 and 2030
• Skill Matching: Leadership, strategic planning, decision-making
• Educational Pathways: MBA or higher, often with experience in lower-level management roles
• Career Progression: Often, the pinnacle of a career, but can transition to Board roles or start new ventures

15. Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)

• National Average Salary: $129,896/year
• Primary Duties: Manages marketing strategies and public relations.
• Job Outlook: Data not available
• Skill Matching: Marketing expertise, team leadership, strategic planning
• Educational Pathways: Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business, or Communications; MBA can be beneficial
• Career Progression: Senior Executive roles, Board Member, or specialized consultancy

Career Opportunities in Business Administration

The field of business administration is vast and offers an array of career paths. For those holding a bachelor's or master's degree in business, job outlook and career growth opportunities are often favorable. One of the highest paying business careers is that of a financial manager, responsible for overseeing financial reports, managing budgets, and steering the fiscal strategies of financial institutions. According to labor statistics, the median annual wage for this role is often much higher than other business and financial occupations. Financial advisors, often requiring a background in financial accounting, also represent a lucrative avenue, especially for those who hold certifications or a master's degree.

Within the realm of business management, roles such as operations research, financial analysts and management analysts are gaining prominence, given the increasing need for data-driven strategies. These professionals, sometimes certified management consultants, work closely with human resources managers to align business practices with organizational goals. Sales managers typically focus on revenue growth through effective marketing campaigns and customer relations. Marketing managers, on the other hand, tend to specialize in market research and digital marketing, laying out comprehensive marketing plans to enhance brand image. For those interested in people management, a career as a human resources manager involves managing employees, overseeing the hiring process, and ensuring effective business practices within the company. The role of a chief executive officer or chief financial officer often represents the pinnacle of financial success in the business field, although these positions usually demand years of experience and a robust understanding of business operations, including supply chain management.

Career Opportunities for Management Analysts: Unlocking the Potential for Organizational Excellence

The role of a management analyst, often interchangeably called a management consultant, has gained significant attention in recent years due to the escalating need for businesses to optimize operations and enhance profitability. With an increasing number of companies valuing data-driven insights, the expertise of management analysts has become indispensable. If you're contemplating a career in this field or looking for the next ladder of growth, the future is promising.

Management analysts usually work for consulting firms or as independent contractors. Their main objective is to scrutinize an organization's operational structure and propose modifications to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and boost performance. This role is not industry-specific, meaning that management analysts can work in sectors ranging from healthcare and government to retail and manufacturing. With a bachelor's or master's degree in business, business administration, or a related field, you're well-equipped to start a career in management consultancy. Certifications, such as being a Certified Management Consultant (CMC), can further validate your skills and may provide a competitive edge in the job market.

In terms of financial prospects, management analysts are often well-compensated. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for this occupation was higher than the median for all other occupations, making it one of the better-paying jobs in the business and financial sector. The job outlook for management analysts is also robust, with growth rates projected to be higher than average. This is attributed to the escalating complexity of doing business, forcing organizations to seek external expertise for problem-solving and strategic planning.

Given the nature of the work, excellent communication skills are essential. Management analysts not only diagnose problems but also have to present solutions in an understandable and actionable manner. As you advance in this career, there is the potential to specialize in specific industries or types of consultancy, such as risk management or supply chain management, adding another layer of expertise to your skill set.

Navigating Your Career Path: Identifying Key Skills and Credentials for Business Success

While our earlier section focuses on specific jobs and their career outlooks, this part aims to offer guidance on how to prepare yourself for your dream job in the business arena. Whether you're an aspiring business coordinator, marketing manager or eyeing a C-level executive position like a CEO, different roles require different skill sets and qualifications.

For those considering careers like financial managers or financial advisors, a strong background in financial accounting is often necessary. These roles frequently involve scrutinizing financial reports and records to make crucial decisions, and may require certifications or even a master's degree for career growth. Similarly, roles like operations research analysts and management analysts necessitate a knack for data-driven decision-making. Acquiring credentials like a Certified Management Consultant can give you a competitive edge.

Sales managers and marketing managers also have distinct responsibilities but share a common goal of revenue growth. While the former often focuses on managing a sales team and setting quotas, the latter is responsible for executing successful marketing campaigns and strategies, often with a focus on digital marketing. For those interested in human resources, becoming a human resources manager means you'll be deeply involved in employee welfare, from recruitment to conflict resolution. Generally, employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's or master's degree in business or a related field for these managerial roles.

Conclusion: Charting Your Journey in the Business World

Navigating the labyrinthine world of business careers can be both daunting and exciting. From roles focused on administrative tasks to high-stakes executive positions and personal financial advisors, the business field offers a diverse array of opportunities for every skill set and career aspiration. With the data and insights provided in this guide, you're better equipped to make informed decisions about your career path. Whether you're an entry-level candidate seeking a role in public relations or a seasoned professional considering a pivot into financial management, the future is bright for those willing to invest in their education, skills, and professional development.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the best way to decide which business career is right for me?

A: Assess your strengths, weaknesses, and interests. Take into consideration your educational background and any relevant experience. Matching these elements with the roles you're interested in can provide a clearer picture of what may suit you best.

Q2: Is a master's degree essential for career growth in the business field?

A: While a master's degree can certainly enhance your career prospects and earning potential, it's not a strict requirement for all roles. For some positions, relevant experience, certifications, and proven skills can be just as valuable.

Q3: How do I pivot from one business: project management role to another?

A: Research the skill sets required for the new role and identify which are transferable from your current job. Acquiring any additional necessary skills, perhaps through training or certification, will make the transition smoother.

Q4: What are the highest paying jobs in the business sector?

A: Roles like Financial Manager, Chief Executive Officer, and Chief Marketing Officer often command higher salaries than project managers. However, these roles generally require extensive experience and education.

Q5: Is the job outlook for business professionals and financial occupations generally positive?

A: Yes, the majority of business and financial roles are expected to see growth in the coming years. Specific growth rates can vary by role, so it’s beneficial to consult sources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics for precise information.