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50 Jobs to Pursue with an MBA

An MBA degree is an investment in your future, and it’s an investment with an excellent return. According to a study from TopMBA.com, it takes less than four years on average for MBA graduates to recoup their upfront investment, mainly through improved earnings and job prospects.

Graduating with an MBA can open the door to a variety of lucrative career paths. The path you choose to take will depend on your interests and area of specializations.

To help you identify your MBA career goals, we’ve compiled a list of 50 high-paying jobs open to MBA degree holders, using the latest salary and job outlook information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Payscale.com, and Salary.com. These 50 jobs with an MBA cover a variety of industries, sectors, and specializations.

Read on to discover your ideal MBA career path!

1. Management Consultant

Job Description: Management consultants, also called management analysts, use their business acumen and in-depth knowledge of management processes to solve problems, create value, and improve performance for organizations. As a management consultant, you would be responsible for gathering data from a variety of sources (e.g. focus groups, employee interviews, sales reports) and distilling it into recommendations about how the organization should change its strategy, structure, or operations to achieve higher profits.

Median Annual Salary: $82,450 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: As organizations continue to prioritize controlling costs and driving efficiencies, management consulting experts will be highly sought after. Jobs in this field are expected to grow 14% by 2026 (faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business

2. Marketing Manager

Job Description: Marketing managers oversee the day-to-day marketing activities for an organization and develop its long-term marketing strategy. Typical marketing manager responsibilities include coordinating online and print promotional campaigns, overseeing the company’s marketing budget, managing lead generation campaigns, and making strategic marketing decisions based on analytics. They often work closely with a company’s sales department.

Median Annual Salary: $132,230 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: Overall employment of marketing, advertising, and promotions managers is expected to grow 10% by 2026 (faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: Marketing

3. Financial Manager

Job Description: Financial managers are in charge of overseeing the overall financial health of a company. Some of their core responsibilities include preparing and presenting financial reports, monitoring day-to-day financial operations such as payroll, seeking out methods to minimize financial risk, and managing financial department employees. They may also be involved in investing excess cash and managing mergers and acquisitions.

Median Annual Salary: $125,080 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: Several important aspects of the financial manager’s role, including risk management and cash management, are expected to be in high demand over the next ten years. By 2026, employment of financial managers is projected to grow 19% (much faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: Finance

4. Personal Financial Advisor

Job Description: Personal financial advisors provide clients with advice regarding their investments, savings accounts, taxes, mortgages, and estate and retirement planning. They have a deep knowledge of investments and financial regulations. Financial advisors typically receive a commission for the financial products they sell to their clients, so they spend a lot of time growing their client base.

Median Annual Salary: $90,640 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: Personal financial advisors will be in high demand as the Baby Boomer generation enters retirement and Generation Y becomes more concerned with paying mortgages and saving up for college education for their children. Job demand is expected to increase 15% by 2026 (much faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: Finance

5. Sales Manager

Job Description: Sales is a crucial aspect of any business. Sales managers are responsible for achieving growth and hitting sales targets while managing a team of sales representatives. They also play a key role in crafting the company’s overall sales strategy, providing training and mentorship to their team members, and assigning sales territories and overseeing team growth. Communication skills, charisma, and a strong business sense are all highly valued attributes for sales managers.

Median Annual Salary: $121,060 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: Sales management positions are expected to grow at a respectable rate of 7% by 2026 (as fast as average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business or Marketing

6. Public Relations Manager

Job Description: Similar to marketing managers, public relations managers play a role in driving awareness of a company or organization. They are responsible for crafting the organization’s communication strategy and maintaining a positive public image. Duties often include fielding media questions and pitching stories to the media, preparing media kits, writing speeches or press releases, and crafting other public communications as required. Public relations managers are also called upon in crisis situations to counteract negative press.

Median Annual Salary: $111,280 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: In the social media age, cultivating a strong public image is more important than ever. Demand for public relations managers will be high, with a projected growth rate of 10% by 2026 (faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business or Marketing

7. Security Analyst

Job Description: Security analysts, also known as financial analysts, follow the performance of stocks, sectors, industries, or economies in the financial market and make buy, sell, and/or hold recommendations. They often focus on a particular subject area such as the energy industry or East Asian stock markets. Security analysts tend to work for banks, private equity firms, venture capital firms, or hedge funds.

Median Annual Salary: $84,300 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: The increasing variety and complexity of financial products is expected to drive strong employment growth for security analysts. Job opportunities in this field are projected to increase 11% by 2026 (faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: Finance

8. Operations Research Analyst

Job Description: Operations research analysts utilize advanced mathematical and analytical methods to interpret information and present it to management to assist with complex decision making. Typical problems that operation research analysts tackle include optimizing supply chain networks, determining the best way to organize products in supermarkets, or calculating the ideal price for a new product. A strong understanding of mathematics and an affinity for data analysis are needed to succeed in this career path.

Median Annual Salary: $81,390 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: Since this career field requires a deep understanding of business, logistics and mathematics, it is in high demand. Employment of operations research analysts is expected to grow 27% by 2026 (much faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business or Location Analytics (an undergraduate degree in mathematics, computer science, or engineering is also an asset)

9. Market Research Analyst

Job Description: Market research analysts collect data about consumer preferences and market conditions to inform how businesses should present their products or services to the market. Analysts collect data through various means, such as focus groups, customer surveys, public opinion polls, and literature reviews. They then analyze this data using statistical software and present it to upper management or, if working on a contract basis, to their clients.

Median Annual Salary: $63,230 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: Increasing numbers of companies and organizations are using market research to help them make marketing decisions. As such, market research analyst jobs are expected to grow 23% by 2026 (much faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: Marketing

10. Accountant

Job Description: Accountants analyze and prepare financial information and are responsible for ensuring that all financial records are sound and that taxes are paid correctly. As an accountant, some of your day-to-day activities might include documenting financial transactions, preparing balance sheets and P&L statements, reconciling financial discrepancies, validating financial transactions by auditing documents, and ensuring that all financial statements comply with laws and regulations.

Median Annual Salary: $69,350 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: Job growth in the accounting field is closely tied to the health of the economy, since a strong economy means more accountants are needed to examine financial records. By 2026, strong economic growth is expected to result in a 10% increase in employment of accountants and auditors (faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: Finance

11. Fundraiser

Fundraisers have the important task of organizing events, campaigns, and other activities with the goal of raising money for charities or not-for-profit organizations. They may also be responsible for designing promotional materials, approaching individuals and organizations to ask for monetary gifts, and coordinating the work of volunteers. While the not-for-profit sector tends to pay less than the for-profit sector, fundraising can be one of the more rewarding careers with an MBA.

Median Annual Salary: $55,640 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: Even in the not-for-profit sector, organizations are driven by the continuous need to raise money. Employment prospects for fundraisers are strong, with a projected 15% growth rate by 2026 (much faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business or Marketing

12. Human Resources Specialist

Job Description: Human resources (HR) specialists generally focus on the recruitment and training aspects of human resources. Their duties may include creating job posts, scheduling and conducting interviews, preparing and reviewing compensation packages, and implementing training and development programs. This role can be a gateway to more lucrative human resources management and director positions.

Median Annual Salary: $60,350 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: Increasingly complex employment laws and health insurance options are driving demand for HR specialists. Job opportunities in this field are expected to grow 7% by 2026 (as fast as average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business

13. Human Resources Manager

Job Description: Human resources (HR) managers oversee all aspects of a company’s human resources practices and policies. They also typically manage one or more HR specialists. As an HR manager, you would be responsible for developing and implementing HR strategies related to hiring, training, and employee retention, while acting as a bridge between employees and upper management. HR managers play a key role in nurturing a positive work environment and addressing personal grievances.

Median Annual Salary: $110,120 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: The demand for HR managers is projected to be slightly higher than the demand for HR specialists, with a 9% growth rate by 2026 (as fast as average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business

14. Financial Examiner

Job Description: All businesses and organizations must comply with financial laws and regulations or else face costly consequences. That’s where financial examiners come in. These finance experts perform complex examinations of an organization’s finances and make recommendations for corrective actions. They will typically specialize in either risk scoping (ensuring that an organization has enough cash to cover unexpected losses) or consumer compliance (ensuring that lending processes are fair to borrowers).

Median Annual Salary: $81,690 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: Navigating the world of federal financial regulation can be complex, and as such demand for financial examiners is on the rise. By 2026, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment in this field will increase by 10% (faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: Finance

15. Budget Analyst

Job Description: Budget analysts are responsible for helping organizations plan and monitor their spending. Key responsibilities include reviewing budget proposals provided by managers to ensure accuracy and regulatory compliance, conducting cost/benefit analyses, keeping track of spending, and estimating future financial requirements. Budget analysts who work in government may also attend committee hearings to explain their budget recommendations to legislators.

Median Annual Salary: $75,240 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of budget analysts is projected to grow at a rate of 7% by 2026 (as fast as average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: Finance

16. Logistician

Job Description: Logisticians analyze and oversee all activities related to a business’ supply chain. They are ultimately responsible for the entire life cycle of a product, from its initial acquisition to its distribution and delivery. Developing business relationships with suppliers and designing strategies to improve logistical efficiency are key aspects of the logistician’s role.

Median Annual Salary: $74,590 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: In a global economy, supply chain management is becoming more complex, driving a need for talented logisticians. Employment in this field is projected to grow 7% by 2026 (as fast as average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business

17. Advertising Manager

Job Description: Advertising managers plan programs to generate interest for a particular product or service. They may work for a single organization or in an agency environment. Their responsibilities typically include working with department heads to determine advertising budgets, planning and executing advertising campaigns across various forms of media (e.g. online, print, billboards, radio, and television), and negotiating advertising contracts.

Median Annual Salary: $106,130 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: The Bureau of Labor Statistics groups advertising managers along with marketing and promotions managers. Jobs in this field are expected to grow 10% by 2026 (faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: Marketing

18. Operations Manager

Job Description: Operations management is a senior role that involves overseeing the effective management of labor and productivity within an organization. The operations manager’s job is to ensure that everything is running smoothly, safely, and efficiently. He or she may be involved in managing quality assurance programs, overseeing inventory and distribution of goods, analyzing workflow, and forecasting operations related budgetary requirements.

Median Annual Salary: $100,410 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 9% increase in employment of operations managers by 2026 (as fast as average). This growth will be driven by the creation of new organizations and the expansion of existing ones, which will require senior managers to oversee operations.

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business

19. Investment Banker

Job Description: Investment bankers connect buyers and sellers in the financial market. They raise money for their clients by issuing debt (i.e., selling bonds) to investors or selling equity. Investment bankers also assist with mergers and acquisitions and initial public offerings. Successful investment bankers can earn large bonuses that are far in excess of their base salary, making this one of the most potentially lucrative jobs with an MBA.

Median Annual Salary: $96,550, plus bonus (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: The Bureau of Labor Statistics groups investment bankers with other securities, commodities, and financial services sales agents. The growth outlook for jobs in this field is 6% by 2026 (as fast as average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: Finance

20. GIS Analyst

Job Description: GIS analysts, also known as location analysts, are responsible for analyzing spatial data and identifying trends. In the private sector, they often analyze trends related to a company’s marketing, sales, or operations - for example, where most mobile website visitors are coming from or which neighborhoods generate the most sales. This data is then overlaid and top of maps and presented to management to aid in strategic decision making. GIS is a growing field, making this one of the most unique careers with an MBA.

Median Annual Salary: $52,734 (Payscale.com)

Job Outlook: GIS Analysts fall under the same category as operations research analysts. Growth in this emerging field is expected to be 27% by 2026 (much faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: Location Analytics

21. Purchasing Manager

Job Description: Purchasing managers develop and execute purchasing strategies for businesses. They are in charge of maintaining records of goods ordered and received, locating vendors of supplies, negotiating purchase deals, and forecasting future levels of demand. Strong leadership, negotiation, and decision-making skills are an asset in this career field.

Median Annual Salary: $115,760 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: While the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a decline in the number of purchasing agents and buyers due to automation, purchasing managers will still be required to oversee procurement strategies. The number of purchasing management jobs is expected to increase 5% by 2026 (as fast as average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business

22. Portfolio Manager

Job Description: Portfolio managers, also known as private bankers or wealth managers, work with clients who have a large amount of money to invest - typically companies or enterprises. They manage large portfolios of investments and help their clients determine the best strategies to maximize investment growth. Their duties involve researching investment opportunities, keeping their clients informed of financial performance, and managing a team of financial analysts.

Median Annual Salary: $84,316 (Payscale.com)

Job Outlook: The Bureau of Labor Statistics groups portfolio managers in the same category as personal financial advisors. The number of jobs in this field is projected to grow 15% by 2026 (much faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: Finance

23. Administrative Services Manager

Job Description: Also known as facility managers, administrative services managers plan, direct, and coordinate the administrative functions that allow a company or organization to run smoothly. Some of their day-to-day tasks include supervising administrative personnel, purchasing and distributing office supplies, developing and monitoring office records, and overseeing the maintenance of equipment. Their overarching responsibility is to increase employee productivity and maintain an orderly work environment.

Median Annual Salary: $94,020 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: An increasing number of retirements is expected to drive employment growth for administrative services managers over the next few years. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 10% increase in this job category by 2026 (faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business

24. Training and Development Manager

Job Description: A training and development manager oversees the development of corporate training programs that help employees improve their knowledge and skills. They are responsible for creating or selecting course content, aligning the training with the organization’s strategic goals, and evaluating the effectiveness of training programs and instructors.

Median Annual Salary: $108,250 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: Training and education programs are necessary for businesses to ensure they remain competitive in a changing world. Job creation for training and development managers is expected to be strong, with a 10% growth rate by 2026 (faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business

25. Financial Controller

Job Description: Financial controllers typically report to the Chief Financial Officer. Similar to a financial manager, they are in charge of overseeing the day-to-day operations of the finance department. However, their role has more to do with preparing financial forecasts, managing cash flow, and conducting internal audits to ensure the accuracy of all accounting. They are not involved in the investment of company capital.

Median Annual Salary: $80,642 (Payscale.com)

Job Outlook: The Bureau of Labor Statistics groups financial controllers along with other financial managers. Jobs in this field are expected to grow 19% by 2026 (much faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: Finance

26. Entrepreneur

Job Description: Self-starters who aren’t keen on the idea of working for somebody else may be attracted to the nearly limitless possibilities provided by becoming an entrepreneur. While many entrepreneurs learn about business through trial and error, laying down an educational foundation first with an MBA degree can help prepare you for the challenges of running a business.

Median Annual Salary: Not available

Job Outlook: The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not track job outlook data for entrepreneurs, given the wide range of industries and markets possible with this career path.

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business

27. Compensation Manager

Job Description: Compensation managers are tasked with researching, developing, and maintaining a company’s compensation system. They establish the pay grades that govern each employee’s pay level based on market research and salary surveys that they may conduct themselves. Staying up-to-date with state and federal employment laws and regulations is another important aspect of the compensation manager’s role.

Median Annual Salary: $119,120 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: Job opportunities for compensation managers should increase modestly over the next few years, with a projected growth rate of 5% by 2026.

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business

28. Benefits Manager

Job Description: Similar to compensation managers, benefits managers play a key role in developing compensation packages for employees, but with more of a focus on the company’s benefits plan. As a benefits manager, you would be in charge of researching, evaluating, and administering benefits plans, including health insurance policies and paid time-off.

Median Annual Salary: $119,120 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: The Bureau of Labor Statistics groups benefits managers along with compensation managers. Employment opportunities in this field are expected to grow 5% by 2026 (as fast as average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business

29. Public Service Manager

Job Description: Jobs with an MBA aren’t limited to the private sector. For those who are attracted to the public sector, public service management can be a highly rewarding career path. Public service managers coordinate and supervise social service programs such as community counseling and food banks. They work with community members and other stakeholders to identify and develop necessary programs, drive awareness, and analyze the programs’ success.

Median Annual Salary: $64,100 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: An aging population and growing demand for mental health related services mean that employment of public service managers is projected to grow 18% by 2026 (much faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business

30. Brand Manager

Job Description: Brand managers are tasked with maintaining the overall success of a particular brand or product. Their goal is to ensure that their brand retains a positive image and positioning in comparison to competitors. Analyzing market data, conducting consumer research, and translating brand elements into recommendations for promotional campaigns are all important aspects of this role.

Median Annual Salary: $70,249 (Payscale.com)

Job Outlook: Brand managers fall under the same category as marketing and advertising managers. Employment opportunities in this field are expected to increase 10% by 2026 (faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: Marketing

31. Product Manager

Job Description: The research and development of products is a key aspect of many businesses’ operations. Product managers are in charge of this process. As a product manager, you would be responsible for determining customers’ needs and desires based on market research and using this data to bring new products to market.

Median Annual Salary: $100,830 (Payscale.com)

Job Outlook: The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not track job outlook data for product managers. However, the projected growth rate for management occupations as a whole is 8% by 2026 (as fast as average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business

32. Financial Risk Analyst

Job Description: Financial risk analysts identify and analyze potential risks that might have a negative impact on a company’s finances. They specialize in either credit, market, regulatory, or operational risk. Once they have identified potential risks and evaluated them using statistical software, risk analysts put together a list of recommendations or strategies to minimize the potential impact.

Median Annual Salary: $62,309 (Payscale.com)

Job Outlook: The Bureau of Labor Statistics groups risk analysts in the broad category of financial analysts. Jobs in this field are expected to grow 11% by 2026 (faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: Finance

33. Credit Rating Analyst

Job Description: Credit rating analysts evaluate companies or industries and make an assessment as to whether they are able to pay back their debts, including bonds. They also provide an anticipated target price on a company’s future security. Based on their evaluation, the management team at the bank or investment firm where they work will rate the company on how likely it is to default on its debts.

Median Annual Salary: $50,347 (Payscale.com)

Job Outlook: The Bureau of Labor Statistics groups credit rating analysts in the broad category of financial analysts. Jobs in this field are expected to grow 11% by 2026 (faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: Finance

34. Revenue Manager

Job Description: Revenue managers support sales managers, financial managers, and general managers by putting in place strategies to boost company revenue. They research the competition and analyze customer data to identify ways in which revenue can be increased. Revenue managers also forecast short-term and long-term revenue for the company.

Median Annual Salary: $61,070 (Payscale.com)

Job Outlook: Revenue managers fall under the same category as sales managers. Jobs in this field are projected to have a 7% growth rate by 2026 (as fast as average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business or Finance

35. Hedge Fund Manager

Job Description: Hedge fund managers make decisions about investment opportunities for large companies with millions of dollars in capital. They work closely with financial security analysts, who make the recommendations that allow their decisions to be made. Hedge fund managers deal exclusively with hedge funds, as opposed to portfolio managers who work with a broader range of investment opportunities.

Median Annual Salary: $106,000 (Payscale.com)

Job Outlook: The Bureau of Labor Statistics groups hedge fund managers in the same category as financial analysts. Employment opportunities in this field are projected to increase 11% by 2026 (faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: Finance

36. Project Manager

Job Description: A project manager is a person in charge of making sure that all the moving parts of a complex project go as planned, on time, and within budget. They plan, budget, monitor, and report on the project while delegating tasks to junior staff members and checking in on task progress. Strong organization skills and people skills are essential for project management roles.

Median Annual Salary: $72,282 (Payscale.com)

Job Outlook: Currently, the Bureau of Labor Statistics does not track job outlook data for project managers. However, the projected growth rate for management occupations as a whole is 8% by 2026 (as fast as average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business

37. General Manager

Job Description: Also known as managing directors, general managers are responsible for overseeing daily business activities. Their job responsibilities often overlap with those of an operations manager. Training department heads, setting strategic organizational goals, enforcing ethical business practices, and managing budgets may all be part of a general manager’s role.

Median Annual Salary: $100,410 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Job Outlook: The Bureau of Labor Statistics groups general managers in the same category as operations managers. Employment in this category is projected to grow 9% by 2026 (as fast as average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business

38. Director of Marketing

Job Description: Jobs at the director level are typically only open to people with 5 to 10 years of related work experience, but an MBA can help get you there. Director positions also tend to pay a lot more than lower-level jobs with an MBA. As a director of marketing, you would be responsible for guiding the company’s high-level marketing strategy. Responsibilities might include developing and implementing the brand strategy, guiding the activities of marketing managers, and overseeing campaign implementation.

Median Annual Salary: $138,648 (Salary.com)

Job Outlook: Marketing director jobs fall under the same category as marketing management jobs. Employment in this field is expected to increase 10% by 2026 (faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: Marketing

39. Director of Sales

Job Description: A director of sales oversees a team of sales managers and guides them to be as effective as possible. He or she is also responsible for developing a national or international sales strategy, accurately forecasting future sales based on market trends, and representing the business at major industry events or conferences.

Median Annual Salary: $163,402 (Salary.com)

Job Outlook: Sales director jobs fall under the same category as sales management jobs. Employment in this field is expected to increase 7% by 2026 (as fast as average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business or Marketing

40. Director of IT

Job Description: IT directors typically have a degree in computer science, but it is becoming increasingly common for them to hold MBA degrees as well. The job of an IT director is to oversee all technology operations and ensure that all departments have the IT tools and software they need to do their jobs effectively. They devise and establish IT systems and policies based on business requirements, and play a key role in maintaining network security.

Median Annual Salary: $169,496 (Salary.com)

Job Outlook: As businesses expand further into the digital space, the demand for IT directors will rise. Employment in this category is expected to grow 12% by 2026 (faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business (an undergraduate or graduate degree in computer science is also generally required)

41. Director of Human Resources

Job Description: In large companies, a director of human resources is tasked with ensuring the smooth operation of all HR-related activities. They supervise lower-level HR staff and are responsible for developing a culture that enables employees to thrive. They may also play a more direct role in developing and implementing HR programs related to employee training, retention, compensation, benefits, and health and safety.

Median Annual Salary: $146,203 (Salary.com)

Job Outlook: Human resources director jobs fall under the same category as human resources management jobs. Employment in this field is expected to increase 10% by 2026 (faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business

42. Director of Operations

Job Description: A talented operations manager might be offered an operations director position after gaining several years of experience. Operations directors typically plan and monitor the day-to-day operations for large, often international companies. They supervise staff from different departments, coordinate the procurement and allocation of resources, manage relationships with external partners, and report on overall business effectiveness.

Median Annual Salary: $169,442 (Salary.com)

Job Outlook: Operations director jobs fall under the same category as operations management jobs. Employment in this field is expected to increase 9% by 2026 (as fast as average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business

43. Director of Finance

Job Description: The director of finance is senior to the financial manager and helps direct and coordinate financial planning and accounting functions. In addition to overseeing the daily operations of the finance department, the VP of finance might be responsible for setting long-term financial strategies and business plans, liaising with government officials relative to financial matters, and determining benchmarks for measuring financial performance.

Median Annual Salary: $178,819 (Salary.com)

Job Outlook: Finance director jobs fall under the same category as financial management jobs. Employment in this field is expected to increase 19% by 2026 (much faster than average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: Finance

44. Director of Purchasing

Job Description: Purchasing directors oversee all functions related to the purchasing and procurement of materials needed for manufacturing. They shape the purchasing strategy that the purchasing manager acts upon, and are ultimately responsible for maintaining price controls and inventory flows. A director of purchasing typically reports to top management, such as the chief operating officer or chief executive officer.

Median Annual Salary: $151,760 (Salary.com)

Job Outlook: Purchasing director jobs fall under the same category as purchasing management jobs. Employment in this field is expected to increase 5% by 2026 (as fast as average).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business or Finance

45. Chief Information Officer

Job Description: Large enterprises may have a chief information officer in addition to a director of IT. The chief information officer is in charge of setting objectives for the IT department and designing or selecting technological systems to streamline internal operations and improve customer experience. The chief information officer also monitors changes in the IT landscape to discover ways the company can gain a competitive advantage.

Average Annual Salary: $269,895 (Salary.com)

Job Outlook: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for chief executives is expected to decline 4% by 2026, based on the current trend of economic activity becoming concentrated in established, mature companies. Competition for C-level positions will, therefore, be competitive.

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business (an undergraduate or graduate degree in computer science is also generally required)

46. Chief Innovation Officer

Job Description: Chief innovation officer is a relatively new job title, based on the notion that innovation is key to a company’s success. The chief innovation officer identifies new strategies, business opportunities, and research & development ideas to drive business innovation and growth. They may work closely with product managers to help bring new products to market.

Average Annual Salary: $294,190 (Salary.com)

Job Outlook: 4% decline by 2026 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business

47. Chief Marketing Officer

Job Description: The chief marketing officer (CMO) role is becoming more common in enterprise-level companies. Reporting directly to the CEO, the CMO directs market research efforts and analyzes market trends in order to shape the strategy that is carried out by the marketing directors and managers. He or she is the primary source of all marketing and advertising activities.

Average Annual Salary: $234,184 (Salary.com)

Job Outlook: 4% decline by 2026 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Recommended MBA Specialization: Marketing

48. Chief Financial Officer

Job Description: A company’s chief financial officer (CFO) is accountable for the financial and risk management operations of the company. Major strategic financial decisions related to the investment of company capital, corporate acquisitions, tax strategies, and debt financing are handled by the CFO.

Average Annual Salary: $368,479 (Salary.com)

Job Outlook: 4% decline by 2026 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Recommended MBA Specialization: Finance

49. Chief Operating Officer

Job Description: As the top-ranked operations executive in a company, the chief operating officer (COO) is responsible for designing and implementing business strategies that improve operational efficiency. The COO also plays a major role in expansion activities such as mergers and acquisitions, and submits detailed reports to the CEO related to business performance. He or she is usually the second in command, next to the CEO.

Average Annual Salary: $465,549 (Salary.com)

Job Outlook: 4% decline by 2026 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business

50. Chief Executive Officer

Job Description: If you’re going to set your MBA career goals high, why not set them right at the top? The chief executive officer (CEO) is the highest-ranked executive in a company. As CEO you would be in charge of making major strategic decisions, managing the overall operations, and defining the company vision. As far as careers with an MBA go, it doesn’t get any more senior than this.

Average Annual Salary: $764,766 (Salary.com)

Job Outlook: 4% decline by 2026 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Recommended MBA Specialization: General Business