12 High-Paying Jobs in Marketing

Published on: February 14, 2022

Marketing is a dynamic field with a variety of career paths, many of which offer competitive salaries. As businesses continue to recognize the importance of strong marketing strategies, the demand for skilled professionals in this area continues to grow. From brand management to digital marketing, the highest-paying marketing jobs often require a combination of creative skills, strategic thinking and a thorough understanding of market research.

Read on to explore 12 high-paying jobs in marketing — along with the skills and qualifications needed for each role and how a business degree can help you secure these opportunities.

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Is Marketing a Good Career?

Careers in marketing and advertising encompass diverse opportunities for growth and competitive salaries. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), advertising, promotions and marketing managers and market research analysts both have a projected job growth of 8% from 2023 to 2033.

Average Salary for Marketing Jobs

Marketing offers roles with competitive salaries. According to the BLS, advertising, promotions and marketing managers earn a median annual salary of $156,580. Additionally, market research analysts (who gather and analyze data about consumer preferences) have a median annual salary of $74,680. These figures underscore the range of earning potential in marketing positions as well as the financial rewards that may accompany a career in this field.

Highest-Paying Marketing Jobs

Careers in marketing and advertising offer a number of high-paying opportunities. The most senior positions, such as chief marketing officer (CMO), necessitate extensive experience and leadership skills to oversee and guide a company's marketing strategies. Other sought-after marketing jobs and salaries include marketing managers and marketing analysts, each requiring a firm grasp of market trends and consumer behavior. These demand a mix of strategic thinking, creativity and analytical expertise to drive successful marketing efforts.

Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)

The chief marketing officer oversees the entire marketing department, developing strategies to drive company growth and increase brand awareness. This high-level role often requires a deep knowledge of business operations and advanced leadership skills. The average annual salary for a CMO is approximately $224,612.

Vice President (VP) of Marketing

The VP of marketing leads and directs all marketing efforts within an organization, focusing on developing strategic initiatives to improve the company's market position. This role often collaborates with other executives to align marketing goals with broader business objectives. The average annual salary for a VP of marketing is around $201,080.

Marketing Research Manager

A marketing research manager analyzes market trends, consumer behavior and competition to help businesses make informed marketing decisions. This position requires strong analytical skills and the ability to turn data into actionable insights to support marketing strategies. The average annual salary for a marketing research manager is approximately $76,626.

Creative Director

Creative directors oversee the creative process within marketing campaigns, ensuring that all content aligns with the brand’s voice and objectives. This role is ideal for those who excel at combining creativity with strategic thinking to craft engaging marketing materials. The average annual salary for a creative director is about $119,692.

Global Marketing Manager

Global marketing managers develop and implement marketing strategies for international markets, ensuring consistent brand messaging across different regions. This position requires strong cultural awareness and the ability to manage marketing efforts on a global scale. The median annual salary for a global marketing manager is approximately $157,620.

Brand Manager

Brand managers are responsible for maintaining and growing a brand’s image and presence in the market. They work to ensure that all marketing efforts are consistent with the brand’s values and connect effectively with target audiences. The average annual salary for a brand manager is around $104,225.

Content Marketing Director

Content marketing directors oversee the development and execution of content strategies across multiple platforms, aiming to drive engagement and lead generation. They create valuable and relevant content that resonates with the brand’s audience. The average annual salary for a content marketing director is approximately $109,337.

SEO/SEM Director

SEO and SEM directors are responsible for optimizing a company’s online presence through search engine optimization and search engine marketing strategies. This role involves increasing website visibility and driving organic and paid traffic to the site. The average annual salary for an SEO/SEM director is about $113,333.

Social Media Manager

Social media managers create and implement social media strategies to engage audiences across platforms like Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). They are responsible for content creation, scheduling and analyzing the effectiveness of social media campaigns. The average annual salary for a social media manager is approximately $73,547.

Digital Marketing Director

Digital marketing directors lead digital marketing strategies and oversee online advertising efforts like email marketing, PPC campaigns and social media promotions. They ensure all digital initiatives align with the company’s overall marketing goals. The average annual salary for a digital marketing director is around $148,648.

Demand Generation Manager

Demand generation managers focus on creating and nurturing leads that will eventually convert into customers. They work closely with sales teams to develop strategies that generate interest and drive revenue growth through targeted marketing efforts. The average annual salary for a demand generation manager is approximately $101,463.

User Experience (UX) Director

UX directors ensure that all digital interactions within a company, such as websites and apps, are user-friendly and provide a positive experience. This position combines design thinking with marketing strategies to enhance customer satisfaction and engagement. The average annual salary for a UX director is about $117,556.

How a Business Degree Can Help You Get a Job in Marketing

A business administration degree provides a solid foundation in business operations — making it an excellent stepping stone for a career in marketing. With a focus on key areas such as strategic planning, market research and consumer behavior, this degree equips graduates with the skills necessary to thrive in marketing roles. It offers a deeper understanding of how marketing fits into broader business strategies. Plus, the versatility and comprehensive skill set of a business education positions graduates for strong career prospects and growth in the marketing field, allowing them to apply their knowledge across industries.

Step Into a Rewarding Marketing Career With Husson University's Online Business Administration Program

The marketing realm comprises a range of high-paying jobs, and a business administration degree could serve as your first step into this field. From roles in marketing management to digital marketing, the skills gained through a business degree — such as strategic thinking, consumer behavior understanding and market research — are essential for success in marketing jobs.

Looking to gain the skills needed for a fulfilling marketing career? Consider an online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration program from Husson University. Start your journey and request more information today.