Updated at: 05-04-2023 - By: Eden Wise

Overview

Around a table, a doctor, a firefighter, an engineer, and a police officer talk shop.

They have all made the conscious decision to change careers in order to pursue one of the many high-demand MBA career paths in fast-growing industries. MBA graduates can pursue a wide variety of careers, each as varied as the professional and academic paths that lead to the degree.

The most attractive aspect of an MBA education is that it provides students with marketable business expertise. Dozens of job titles covering a wide range of responsibilities can be found within the six MBA professions discussed in this guide, including those in finance, accounting, marketing, supply chain management, IT, and business analytics.

Best MBA Career Options

Best mba career options

Chief Technology Officer

Whoever is in charge of an organization’s technological and scientific development is called its “Chief Technology Officer.”

They are in charge of building and maintaining the company’s technological infrastructure based on the hardware and software already in use, as well as ensuring that the company is using the most recent and reliable technological solutions for its operations.

Candidates who are analytical thinkers with a genuine interest in technology (including but not limited to computers) and a need to keep up with the latest trends and advancements in the field may thrive in this position.

Although a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Management, Electrical and Computer Engineering, or a closely related field may give you an edge in the job market, a general Master of Business Administration degree may be sufficient.

Chief Technology Officers can expect to earn a median salary of $185,950. According to the BLS, the top 25 percent of earners bring in more than $208,000 annually. If you want to get close to the top of your field, this is what getting an MBA is all about.

Computer and Information Systems Manager

Computer and Information Systems Manager

The company’s computer and information systems and networks are overseen by the Computer and Information Systems Manager.

They are accountable for the proper operation and upkeep of all computer systems and networks. A company’s IT network and security systems are likely under their purview, and they may be responsible for their installation, upkeep, and, if necessary, troubleshooting.

The Manager of Computer and Information Systems may also be responsible for coordinating the development of the company website with the advertising group.

Those who are methodical, imaginative, analytical, and have a genuine interest in computers and technology may thrive in this position.

Employers may give preference to candidates with an MBA in IT, but they may also consider those with a general IT MBA and a BS in CS, IT, or EE.

According to the BLS, the median annual salary for computer and information systems managers is $151,150. The top 25% of managers, however, earn more than $191,470.

Financial Manager

A company’s financial records, dealings, and planning are all under the purview of the Financial Manager.

The company’s financial accounts and all related transactions involving the company’s cash and assets fall under their purview of responsibility. The Financial Manager is also the chief financial officer, the primary decision-maker and advisor on financial matters.

The Financial Manager’s responsibilities may also include compiling reports on the impact of regional and global economic developments on the business.

This position could be ideal for someone who is methodical, numerate, and eager to take on new challenges, especially those that involve solving difficult problems.

Although an undergraduate degree in Accountancy or Finance is usually preferred by employers, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) is usually required for this position.

According to the BLS, the median annual salary for Financial Managers is $134,180. The highest 25% of earners make around $186,030.

Investment Fund Manager

Investment Fund Manager

The company’s investment decisions and portfolio management are the responsibility of the Investment Fund Manager.

Advice and reports on data directly related to an organization’s investment activities are their primary responsibilities. The Investment Fund Manager might also have veto power or significant input into the company’s stock, real estate, and other investment holdings.

Deductive reasoning skills, a knack for numbers, and a willingness to make tough calls are all prerequisites for success in this role.

Finance-focused MBA programs are preferred, but those with a general MBA and a bachelor’s in Finance, Accountancy, or Business Administration may also be considered.

According to the BLS, investment fund managers make a median annual salary of $98,850, with the top 25% earning at least $155,570.

Business Intelligence Analyst

A Business Intelligence analyst is someone who conducts in-depth analyses of business data. The most important information about the company is segmented. This information has been collected, scrubbed, and analyzed properly. The information includes financials, sales, market data, customer engagement metrics, and more. Data visualization and monitoring tools are developed to aid in this process. The information is analyzed for trends or places where operations can be streamlined. Market research is also conducted to determine if and how the product should change to meet consumer demand.

HR Manager 

Human Resources Managers are more important than ever in today’s competitive market. Human Resources Managers are in charge of the recruitment, selection, and hiring processes. They serve as an intermediary between upper management and the workforce. They offer counsel on strategic preparation as well.

Sales Manager

Sales Manager

The success of any business hinges on its ability to meet or exceed its sales goals. A sales manager’s job is to help their team achieve their sales goals. Sales managers analyze sales data and devise strategies to boost revenue. They instruct the staff to reach quotas in sales.

Leadership Roles In Entertainment, Sports And Fashion Companies

MBA grads can find a wide range of interesting employment opportunities in the dynamic fields of sports, fashion, and entertainment. An MBA graduate can put their analytical skills to use in these fields by landing a job as a marketing manager. To further understand the preferences of consumers like moviegoers, sports fans, and fashionistas, an MBA is required.

Health And Medical Services Management Careers

In light of the enormous logistical challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, organizations providing health care and medical services have recognized the need for skilled business leaders. 2 An MBA-trained health services manager will have the analytical depth and data-driven judgment to oversee day-to-day operations, manage finances, and keep costs low while maintaining high quality. 2, 4

Director Of Business Operations

Business operations managers with an MBA perform a variety of tasks, including supply chain analysis and coordination, process improvement to more efficiently transform inputs into outputs, and cost reduction in getting products to consumers. To oversee the transformation of operational procedures as businesses move to remote work or online sales, management analysts with an MBA are in high demand. 2

Marketing Management Careers

Marketing Management Careers

Managers in charge of marketing are crucial to any company, as they are the ones who determine how they will respond to the market and how they will reach out to potential customers. Due to the fact that businesses of all sizes and across all sectors need to sell something, marketing managers are in high demand. You can anticipate high pay and plenty of job opportunities as a marketing manager. 2

Logistics manager

A logistics manager is responsible for analyzing and coordinating the company’s supply chain. They are responsible for overseeing the acquisition, distribution, and delivery of all products sold by the company.

Companies can boost their bottom lines by carefully managing their global supply chains. Most multinational corporations have operations and suppliers spread across multiple continents, necessitating the services of supply chain management specialists. Supply chain and operations management are common areas of study for MBAs, which is why most logistics managers hold one.

Consultant

Consultants, also known as management consultants, management analysts, and business consultants, assist businesses in solving new problems and implementing novel processes. Along with preparing for future changes like new regulations or demographic shifts, they work to increase productivity and profits in the present.

They can also provide CEOs, CFOs, and other executives with specialized advice and assistance in increasing employee productivity. This role is typically offered by a company that works with multiple clients on a project or contract basis. Whether it be transportation, retail, or health care, most consultants have a niche in which they excel.

Purchasing manager

A purchasing manager’s job is to organize the acquisition of goods and services for an organization. They are also responsible for managing regional or local purchasing agents and buyers. Purchasing managers aid in logistics by coordinating products and services.

However, they give priority to stocking up on necessities for the company. A store’s purchasing manager, for instance, must ensure that seasonal merchandise, like Christmas trees, are on hand and ready to sell before Thanksgiving.

Purchasing managers also work to reduce costs by bargaining with suppliers and service providers. Operations and supply chain management are common areas of study for those with an MBA.

IT manager

Managers in this field oversee research projects, introduce new technologies, install and update software, and ensure the safety of company networks. They are also responsible for implementing and enforcing company-wide technical standards.

If employees are allowed to bring their own laptops or tablets to work, the IT manager may mandate that everyone use the same, up-to-date antivirus software. Managers in this field also aid in the promotion of a company’s brand by ensuring that the company’s website is engaging and simple to use. This position is in high demand because information technology is used by businesses of all sizes. Most information technology managers hold an MBA with a concentration in computer science.

Business Operations Manager

In most companies, the supply chain for both raw materials and finished goods is under the purview of the Business Operations Manager.

They are in charge of setting up and maintaining the delivery logistics and the warehousing infrastructure for local or international partners, as well as ensuring a continuous flow of necessary raw materials and equipment from suppliers.

This is a role best suited to someone who is methodical, organized, and not afraid of a challenge.

An undergraduate degree in Business Administration, International Business, or a related field is usually required, but an MBA in Supply Chain Management or an equivalent degree may give you an edge in the hiring process.

It’s worth noting that more and more schools are offering master’s degrees in supply chain management that can be completed entirely online. This could make it possible for you to get an MBA without having to put your career on hold.

According to the BLS, Business Operations Managers make a median annual salary of $103,650, with the top 25% earning upwards of $161,190.

FAQs

What Careers Can an MBA Get You?

The specific field you go into after earning your MBA will depend on your area of expertise within the business world. A master’s in business administration typically prepares you to manage employees.

MBAs have the education and training to deal with numbers and figures that are relevant to business, so they may work as analysts or consultants in addition to dealing with people.

Which MBA has Highest Salary?

A Chief Technology Officer can expect to earn between $184,460 and $208,000 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics), with the top 25% of earners bringing in over $232,840. This is the highest median salary for MBAs, though it will depend on factors like experience, location, and industry.

Is it worth it to pay for an online MBA?

Yes, but it will vary from course to course and subject to subject. Online MBA programs are more affordable. They are convenient for working adults due to their flexibility and the fact that most of the coursework takes place on weekends.

Do any other schools accept CAT scores besides the IIMs?

Yes, there are many more reputable institutions; some even have MBA tracks that require the CAT as a prerequisite for admission. To name just a few, there’s the Department of Management Studies at the Indian Institute of Technology in Delhi, the Xavier Institute of Management in Bhubaneswar, and the Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies.