Top 10 Best Paying Jobs in Business Services | BestColleges (2024)

Want a six-figure income? Discover our list of 10 business management jobs that report a salary of over $100,000.

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Updated on September 28, 2023

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Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.Read Full Bio

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An award-winning historian and writer, Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D., has published multiple scholarly articles and a book with the University of Chicago Press. She currently works as a writer and consultant. She holds a Ph.D. in history from Northwestern...

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Margaret WeinholdRead Full Bio

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Margaret Weinhold is an associate editor for BestColleges, where she focuses on core content. She is passionate about increasing visibility and accessibility around higher education. Margaret holds a BA in English from the University of Virginia....

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Alexandra Tapia loves collaborating with others to be a disruptor in the higher education industry. As a business leader, she works to create and deliver distinct programs — all while building a better future for her clients and students.She has ...

Updated on September 28, 2023

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It's no secret that business management jobs pay high wages.

In fact, the median annual salary for management occupations was $102,450 in May 2021, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That's the highest wage for any occupational group — and it's more than double the median salary of $45,760 for all occupations.

But what jobs can you get with a business management bachelors degree? And which business management degree jobs pay over $100,000 per year?

Our list introduces 10 jobs that pay six-figure salaries, with up-to-date business management salary and job growth data.

1. Chief Executive Officer: $179,520

  • Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $179,520
  • Job Outlook (2021-2031): 6%

Are you a leader? Then becoming a CEO might be the job for you.

As the leader of your organization, you'll set long-term goals and provide a vision for the company. You'll also meet regularly with executives and stakeholders to monitor the organization's performance.

At established companies, you may advance within your organization or join as an outside hire. If you launch your own company, you can take on CEO responsibilities that way as well.

If you're hoping to just manage a division within the organization, consider jobs such as chief operating officer, chief technology officer, and chief financial officer.

So how do you become a CEO? Most CEOs have multiple years of experience in their industry. While a bachelor's degree is the minimum educational requirement, many CEOs pursue an MBA.


2. Computer and Information Systems Manager: $159,010

  • Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $159,010
  • Job Outlook (2021-2031): 16%

Organizations in every sector rely on technology.

As a computer and information systems manager, also known as an IT manager, you'll oversee an organization's computing and IT needs.

You'll work with executives and IT professionals to identify a company's information management needs and implement systems that meet those needs.

You'll also research new technologies, evaluate cybersecurity systems, and recommend upgrades to executives. As a manager, you'll oversee professionals who keep the organization's computer systems and networks running smoothly.

For this role, you'll need a background in business and information science. This usually takes the form of a master's degree in IT management, management information systems, or a related field. And several years of IT experience is helpful.

Looking ahead? Advancement paths include chief technology officer and chief information officer.


3. Architecture and Engineering Manager: $152,350

  • Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $152,350
  • Job Outlook (2021-2031): 2%

As an architecture and engineering manager, you'll combine industry training with management skills.

You'll oversee planning and development for architectural firms, engineering companies, and related organizations. You'll also create estimated budgets and timelines, manage staff, and determine equipment needs. Plus, you'll review work for accuracy.

Before moving into a management role, you'll need to work as an architect or engineer for several years.

In addition to having technical experience, you may complete a master's degree focused on management. Options include an MBA, a technology management degree, or an engineering management degree.


4. Advertising, Promotions, and Marketing Manager: $133,380

  • Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $133,380
  • Job Outlook (2021-2031): 10%

Hoping to increase your organization's market share and profits? Advertising, promotions, and marketing managers do just that.

If you go the advertising route, you'll oversee campaigns that promote the organization's products or services, while in promotions, you'll design promotional campaigns.

As a marketing manager, you'll analyze data to determine pricing strategies and new product development.

These business management jobs require a bachelor's degree, though many companies look for candidates with a master's degree. An MBA with a concentration in marketing or a master's in marketing can prepare you for a marketing manager job, for example.

Pro tip: You should also bring a background in your field or a related area.


5. Financial Manager: $131,710

  • Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $131,710
  • Job Outlook (2021-2031): 17%

Numbers, numbers, numbers — for a financial manager, they're very important.

As a financial manager, you'll oversee an organization's financial activities. You'll create business activity reports, forecast economic trends, and manage investment activities.

You can also specialize in areas like risk management, international finance, and corporate finance.

Plus, it's helpful to work as a financial analyst before moving into a management role.

This career path requires a bachelor's degree in a field like business, finance, or management. Some organizations will prefer you to come with a master's degree or professional certifications.

For example, a chartered financial analyst or certified government financial manager credential can help you move into management positions.

In addition to a six-figure median business management salary, you'll benefit from a high projected demand.


6. Compensation and Benefits Manager: $127,530

  • Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $127,530
  • Job Outlook (2021-2031): 2%

As a compensation and benefits manager, you'll oversee an organization's pay and benefits.

You'll research the competitiveness of wage rates to recruit qualified employees. Your employer may also ask you to coordinate with external companies that provide benefits.

In addition to managing pay and benefits, you'll make sure the organization's plans follow employment laws and regulations. You may also work with executives to determine the budget for pay and benefits.

You will need a bachelor's degree in a field like business or human resources for this role. It's also useful to work for several years as an HR specialist or compensation and benefits specialist.

Some companies look for certifications from organizations like the Society for Human Resource Management.


7. Sales Manager: $127,490

  • Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $127,490
  • Job Outlook (2021-2031): 5%

Sales-driven organizations rely on sales managers to motivate teams, create sales goals, and boost profits.

In your role as a sales manager, you'll play a key role in customer management and training. You'll train sales professionals, research customer needs, and recruit new customers.

A career in sales requires strong communication and leadership skills. You can hone these skills by working in sales jobs — which many managers choose to do. This can include experience in purchasing, wholesale sales, and retail.

A degree in business, marketing, or management can also help you move into sales management roles.


8. Human Resources Manager: $126,230

  • Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $126,230
  • Job Outlook (2021-2031): 7%

The core of an organization is its people — and human resources managers are the ones who find them.

In your job as an HR manager, you'll oversee key areas like recruiting, planning, and retention, as well as meeting any staffing needs that surface. If employee disputes and workplace issues arise, you'll also work through those.

You'll need a bachelor's degree and several years of experience as an HR specialist to enter this career. What's more, some employees look for candidates with a master's in HR management, too.

If you want to boost your chances of getting the job with a professional certificate, organizations like the Society for Human Resource Management offer certificates.


9. Training and Development Manager: $120,130

  • Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $120,130
  • Job Outlook (2021-2031): 7%

No matter which organization it is, organizational development requires a strong training division. As a training and development manager, you'll help organizations upskill their workforce.

You'll evaluate training needs, as well as design and implement programs that align with the organization's goals and values. As a manager, you'll then teach instructors about your programs and evaluate the effectiveness of these instructors.

A background in human resources, management, and instructional design can prepare you for this role. Most professionals hold either a bachelor's or master's degree and bring several years of experience in a training-related field.


10. Medical and Health Services Manager: $101,340

  • Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $101,340
  • Job Outlook (2021-2031): 28%

Healthcare organizations, including hospitals and doctor's offices, rely on medical and health services managers to run smoothly.

For a medical and health services management job, you'll need specialized training in the administrative side of the healthcare sector.

You'll implement policies to improve patient care, manage budgets, and supervise staff.

You can also specialize in areas like health information management, long-term care facility management, and clinical management.

These roles typically require a bachelor's degree and experience in the healthcare field, either on the clinical or administrative side. Some employers prefer you have a master's degree, such as a master's in healthcare administration.

Top 10 Best Paying Jobs in Business Services | BestColleges (2024)

FAQs

Which business job pays the most? ›

Top 10 Highest Paying Business Jobs (Inc Salaries)
  • Chief Executive Officer. ...
  • Computer and Information Systems Manager. ...
  • Finance Manager. ...
  • Human Resource Manager. ...
  • Data Scientist. ...
  • Operations Research Analyst. ...
  • Information Security Analyst. ...
  • Postsecondary Business Teacher.

What service job makes the most money? ›

19 high-paying service industry jobs
  • Hotel manager.
  • Hairstylist.
  • Director of housekeeping.
  • Client services manager.
  • Accountant.
  • Service adviser.
  • Front desk manager.
  • Private chef.
Apr 18, 2024

What is the #1 best paying job? ›

Get Matched!
  • Anesthesiologist. #1 in Best-Paying Jobs (tie) ...
  • Obstetrician and Gynecologist. #1 in Best-Paying Jobs (tie) ...
  • Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon. #1 in Best-Paying Jobs (tie) ...
  • Psychiatrist. #4 in Best-Paying Jobs. ...
  • Nurse Anesthetist. #5 in Best-Paying Jobs. ...
  • Pediatrician. #6 in Best-Paying Jobs. ...
  • Orthodontist. ...
  • IT Manager.

What businesses pay the most? ›

What companies pay highest salaries? Companies that typically pay the highest salaries often include technology giants such as Amazon, Apple, Google, and Microsoft, as well as financial institutions like JPMorgan Chase and Goldman Sachs.

Which career is best for business? ›

Career Paths in Business
  • Accounting. Accounting involves recording and managing financial records. ...
  • Business Administration. Business administration involves managing all business operations, including resources and people. ...
  • Business Intelligence. ...
  • Business Management. ...
  • Economics. ...
  • Entrepreneurship. ...
  • Finance. ...
  • Human Resources.

What jobs make 6 figures straight out of college? ›

Highest paying jobs you can get with a bachelor's degree
  • Engineer. ...
  • Marketing manager. ...
  • Architect. ...
  • Human resources manager. ...
  • Database administrator. ...
  • Finance manager. ...
  • Computer and information systems analyst. ...
  • Accountant.
Feb 16, 2023

What job makes you richest? ›

List of Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs in the World
  • Chief Executive officer.
  • Anesthesiologist.
  • General and Orthopedic Surgeons.
  • Psychiatrists.
  • Data Scientists.
  • Software Engineers.
  • Investment Banker.
  • Petroleum Engineers.

What's the highest paying job without college? ›

Here are the highest-paying jobs that don't require a degree this year:
  • Airline and commercial pilot. Median annual salary: $148,900. ...
  • Information security analyst. ...
  • Elevator and escalator installer and repairer. ...
  • Special effects artist and animator. ...
  • Transportation, storage, and distribution manager.
Jun 4, 2024

Which industry pays the best? ›

What industries have the highest-paying jobs? Industries that typically have the highest-paying jobs include finance, technology, healthcare, and management consulting. These sectors often offer competitive salaries for senior-level positions due to the specialized skills and responsibilities involved.

What is the easiest but highest paid job? ›

High-paying simple jobs
  • Dispatcher. ...
  • Customer service representative. ...
  • Chauffeur. ...
  • Claims adjuster. ...
  • Roofer. ...
  • Groundskeeper. ...
  • Accounting clerk. National average salary: $53,042 per year Primary duties: Accounting clerks work in offices, providing administrative and accounting support for their organization. ...
  • Massage therapist.
Jul 10, 2024

What job makes the most money per hour? ›

11 high-paying hourly jobs
  1. Financial advisor. National average salary: $82,059 per year Primary duties: Financial advisors are consultants who help individuals manage their finances. ...
  2. Commercial pilot. ...
  3. Massage therapist. ...
  4. Air traffic controller. ...
  5. Veterinarian. ...
  6. Senior creative director. ...
  7. Management consultant. ...
  8. Tattoo artist.
Apr 18, 2024

What is the #1 most paying job in the world? ›

1. Chief Executive Officer (CEO): The CEO role commands the highest salary, with an average annual income of $185,355. Key qualifications include a Master's degree in Business Administration (MBA) or a related field, extensive senior management experience, and exceptional leadership and communication skills.

What career in business pays the most? ›

What are the top 5 highest paying jobs? The top 5 highest paying jobs in business often include CEO, investment banker, finance director, management consultant, and business analyst.

Which service businesses make the most money? ›

Depending on the market and industry, different service firms can be the most profitable, however, some of the most consistently profitable service industries are IT consulting, finance, healthcare, marketing, and advertising.

What field makes the most money? ›

Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs in USA (Inc Salaries)
  1. Chief Executive Officer. The company's Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is responsible for guiding the company towards success and growth. ...
  2. Physician/ Doctor. ...
  3. Psychiatrist. ...
  4. Airline Pilot. ...
  5. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon. ...
  6. Orthodontist. ...
  7. Lawyer. ...
  8. Architectural and Engineering Manager.

Which job or business has highest salary? ›

Top 10 highest paying jobs in India 2024
  1. IT Director. Base pay range per year: ₹30L – ₹55L.
  2. Management Consultant. Base pay range per year: ₹15L – ₹29L. ...
  3. Lead Developer. Base pay range per year: ₹15L – ₹30L. ...
  4. Finance Manager. ...
  5. Chartered Accountant. ...
  6. Machine Learning Engineer. ...
  7. Data Scientist. ...
  8. Business Analyst. ...
Mar 19, 2024

What business major has the highest starting salary? ›

According to the BLS, about 88 percent of business degrees are in these focus areas [3]. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), the business majors associated with the highest average starting salaries—or entry-level salaries—are management information systems and actuarial science [2].

Which business field is best for the future? ›

What Are the Best Business Majors for the Future?
  • International Business.
  • Internet Marketing.
  • Management.
  • Marketing.
  • Project Management.
  • Retail & Sales Management.
  • Small Business.
  • Sports Management.
Jul 4, 2024

What field in finance makes the most money? ›

What are the top 5 highest paying jobs? The top 5 highest paying jobs in finance are investment banking, hedge fund management, CFO roles, private equity, and actuarial positions. These careers typically offer substantial salaries and the potential for significant bonuses.

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