Career Paths for Skilled Business Analysts

Business analysts can fill various business positions ranging from entry level administrative analyst all the way to executive-level designations.

For those who excel in critical thinking, business model analysis, communication and technology, this is a career path that can provide great upward momentum.

Once a business analyst has gained experience in the field, the careers paths discussed below can become possible. Here is a close look at each of these top-level careers.

Sales Management

Business analysts are responsible for evaluating the business model, designing or adapting IT systems, developing business organization systems, solving issues involving the business and interacting with stakeholders. All of these are key qualities in sales management.

A sales manager is one of the most pivotal players in many companies. From selecting and defining territories for selling products to deciding when new products will be launched, choices made by the sales manager can make or break a company's quarterly earnings. This is a position that requires keen business acumen – and the rewards reflect the responsibilities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, sales managers achieved a median annual wage of $101,640 in 2011. Those who are successful in this position are also primed to take the next step into executive leadership.

Executive Leadership

An executive has the power and responsibility to oversee the direction of a company. This high-level professional determines short and long term business goals, approves policies and works directly with stakeholders and/or the company board of directors. Other responsibilities include:

• selecting heads of departments and delegating tasks
• presenting reports on activities and budgets to stakeholders, department heads or the company as a whole
• negotiating contracts with business partners or government agencies
• engaging in corrective measures when quarterly earnings do not match business goals

An executive has the chance to be a true leader in the business world. The decisions of the executive directly influence business growth potential, industry competitiveness and long term success of the company.

Business Consultant

For the business analyst who desires more independence and flexibility, business consultation can be a great choice. A business consultant develops strategies to help businesses turn a profit or recover from losses. Companies utilize business consultants to give them fresh, outside perspectives on all the major business variables: the current market, the competition, departmental budgets and overall business goals. A business consultant who is educated and experienced in business has the potential of building a strong reputation and a successful practice. Salaries of business consultants vary based on level of experience and the types of companies served.

Upward Momentum

In the world of business analysis, there are many avenues one can pursue. For those with ambition, there is clear potential to rise to the top tiers of business. The skills of a business analyst allow one to gain insight into the ups and downs of the marketplace, the exciting wins and the sudden turns of fortune. By carefully rising to positions of increasing responsibility, a career professional can gain the solid experience and knowledge required to help businesses succeed.