Marketing Managers

Marketing managers focus on maximizing a firm's profits and market share while keeping customers satisfied. On a daily basis, these professionals develop strategic objectives, gather information, and monitor market trends to see if new products or services are needed. They spend significant time establishing interpersonal relationships, communicating with supervisors and peers, and interacting with people outside their organization. This role requires strong skills in persuasion, active listening, critical thinking, and complex problem solving to sell ideas and influence others.

This career strongly aligns with enterprising interests, meaning it suits people who enjoy leading others and making business decisions. Success in this field requires a solid foundation in sales, marketing, communications, media, and administration. Useful work styles include innovation, leadership, self-confidence, and adaptability. Managers must think creatively, work with computers, and organize and prioritize their tasks to keep projects on schedule.

To enter this career, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree. Because this occupation requires considerable preparation, most individuals also need several years of experience in a related job before moving into a management role. Relevant college majors that can lead to this position include marketing, specialized sales, apparel and textiles, family and consumer sciences business services, and merchandising and marketing operations. Some managers also study pharmacy, pharmaceutical sciences, and administration.

While not always mandatory, professional certifications can help candidates demonstrate their expertise. Examples of industry certifications include the Certified ANA Marketing Professional, Certified Brand Manager, and Agile Certified Product Manager. Some states also list specific licensing options for this profession. Related careers that individuals might transition from or into include sales managers, market research analysts, and advertising and promotions managers.

The median annual pay for marketing managers is $166,790. Earnings can vary significantly based on experience, industry, and location; the lowest 10% of workers in this field earn less than $90,260, while the highest 10% earn more than $293,610. With 395,240 people currently employed, the field is projected to grow by 6.9% from 2025 to 2035, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth and normal turnover are expected to result in 34,000 job openings each year.