General Manager/Top Executive

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Work Tasks

GENERAL MANAGERS/TOP EXECUTIVES devise strategies, formulate policies, and direct the operations of a company to make sure goals and objectives are met. They meet often with subordinate executives of the corporation to make sure business is being conducted within company policies. They may be responsible for one aspect of the firm, such as finance, manufacturing, marketing, sales, purchasing, personnel, training, industrial relations, or legal service. They plan procedures, establish responsibilities, and coordinate functions among departments and sites. They evaluate the performance of the company and staff and determine areas of cost reduction and program improvement.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $260,500 average per year ($125.25 per hour)
• A very large occupation (2,202,200 workers in 2010)
• Expected to not change (0.0% per year)

Entry Requirements

Formal education and experience of GENERAL MANAGERS/TOP EXECUTIVES varies as widely as the nature of their responsibilities. Many have a bachelor's degree or higher in business administration or liberal arts. School superintendents often have a master's in education administration. A brokerage manager needs a background in securities and finance. Executives in highly technical manufacturing and research activities often have a master's degree in engineering or doctoral degree in a scientific discipline. A law degree is required for executives in legal departments. Many companies prefer top executives to have specialized backgrounds.