6 Career Paths You Can Take After an MBA Degree

An MBA (Master of Business Administration) is widely regarded as a gateway to a successful career in management. The degree provides a deep understanding of various business functions, allowing individuals to explore career options in multiple areas. It has significant value both in India and internationally, making it easier for MBA graduates to build a thriving career abroad. Furthermore, earning an MBA from a top business school often comes with the added benefit of a strong placement cell that can secure a job with a reputable company that offers attractive salary packages.

If you’re considering an MBA, here are six popular career options you can explore:

1. Management consultant
One of the most common career paths for MBA graduates is management consulting. As a management consultant, you identify problems that affect a company’s performance and propose ways to solve them. The role involves collecting data from employees and customers to analyze the situation, developing strategies tailored to the issues and implementing new processes to drive profitability and growth. To succeed in this role, it is crucial to have skills such as analytical thinking, communication, adaptability, project management and problem solving. These skills help companies navigate challenging times smoothly.

Starting salary: Rs 8-15 lakh per annum, with top companies offering Rs 25-30 lakh for graduates from prestigious business schools.

2. Investment banker
If you enjoy working with numbers, investment banking can be an ideal career choice. Investment bankers help companies raise capital and structure their finances in a strategic manner. Their role also includes advising companies on mergers and acquisitions to ensure the best possible deals. Moreover, they provide financial guidance based on the latest market trends. In addition to a strong understanding of finance, negotiation skills, networking skills and analytical skills are essential to excel in this field.

Starting salary: Rs 10-18 lakh per year.

3. HR manager
Human Resources (HR) management is another popular career choice for MBA graduates. HR managers are responsible for overseeing the recruitment process and ensuring that candidates are recruited who fit the company culture and job requirements. They also handle employee onboarding, training and development programs, ensuring new hires adapt well to their roles. In addition, HR managers address conflict among employees, manage salary structures, ensure compliance with labor laws, and promote diversity and inclusion in hiring practices. Essentially, they act as a bridge between employer and employees to maintain a healthy work environment.

Starting salary: Rs 6-7 lakh per year, which can go up to Rs 15 lakh depending on the size of the company.

4. Operations manager
An operations manager is responsible for improving the efficiency of a company’s operations to increase productivity and reduce costs. This role involves managing resources, overseeing procurement and ensuring processes run smoothly and without delays. Leadership and team management skills, attention to detail and financial acumen are essential for tasks such as quality control, budget management, risk management and integrating new technologies. Over time, operations managers can advance to senior positions such as Chief Operations Officer (COO) or Director of Operations.

Starting salary: Rs 7-15 lakh per year.

5. Marketing manager
Marketing managers play a key role in promoting a company’s products or services. Their responsibilities include conducting market research, understanding consumer behavior and analyzing competitors. They create and execute marketing campaigns on different platforms, manage brand image and track the effectiveness of strategies using Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). This data-driven approach helps improve future marketing efforts.

Starting salary: Rs 8-15 lakh per annum, with potential to reach ₹20 lakh in large companies.

6. Product manager
Product management is a sought-after career choice for MBA graduates. Product managers define strategies for a product or product line by conducting market research, understanding consumer needs, and working with cross-functional teams during product development. They continuously monitor the performance of a product and make improvements where necessary. A customer-centric mindset, technical knowledge and strategic thinking are essential for success in this role.

Starting salary: Rs 9-15 lakh per year.

These career paths offer lucrative salaries and growth opportunities, making an MBA a worthwhile investment for a successful future in business.

The DNA app can now be downloaded from the Google Play Store. Download the app and share your feedback with us.