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How to Become An Executive Manager

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What is a Executive Manager

An executive manager runs an organisation at the top level and sets its direction. They lead the business by setting goals, managing budgets, and guiding senior teams. This is one of the most influential roles you can hold in any organisation.

Each day, executive managers review data and consult with department heads. They approve the use of financial and human resources. They also represent their organisation at events, forums, and in negotiations with partners and stakeholders.

A key part of the role is selecting and growing senior staff. Executive managers build the leadership teams that carry out the organisation’s strategy. They also make sure the business follows all relevant laws and regulations.

This career takes time and experience to reach, but it offers real influence and a lasting impact. If you love leading at scale and driving an organisation forward, this could be the role for you.

Explore study options in Business Management

Career Outlook for Executive Manager

Executive managers are in demand across all major industries in Australia. The typical person in this role is around 51 years old. Full-time hours average about 50 per week (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). Most roles are permanent and full-time, giving this career strong long-term stability.

Job opportunities are expected to remain steady. Jobs and Skills Australia forecasts around 4,600 new positions per year in executive and general management. The unemployment rate for this occupation is lower than the national average, reflecting ongoing demand for skilled leaders.

Executive managers work across a wide range of industries. The largest employers are professional services, health care, financial services, and manufacturing. As these sectors keep growing, skilled executive managers will stay in demand well into the future.

On this Article

Introduction

Average Salaries

Resources

Steps to Become an Executive Manager

Step 1: Complete a bachelor’s degree in business or management

Start with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, commerce, or management at an Australian university. This takes 3 years full-time and builds core skills in finance, strategy, and operations. A degree gives you the foundation for entry-level management roles and sets you up for further study.

Step 2: Build experience in management and team leadership

Begin your career in a team leader, project manager, or department manager role. Most executive managers spend 10 to 15 years building experience across different functions before reaching executive level. Focus on roles that grow your financial oversight, people management, and strategic planning skills.

Step 3: Complete a postgraduate business qualification

A Master of Business Administration (MBA) is the most common postgraduate route for this career. Most MBA programs take 1 to 2 years full-time or 2 to 3 years part-time at an Australian university. An MBA deepens your strategic thinking, financial management, and leadership skills at an advanced level.

Step 4: Complete governance and director training

Enrol in the Company Directors Course offered by the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD). The course runs over 4 intensive days (in-person or online) and covers board governance, legal duties, and risk management. The AICD Graduate qualification (GAICD) is widely recognised across Australian industries.

Step 5: Join a professional management association

Join the Institute of Managers and Leaders (IML ANZ) to access professional development resources, networking events, and leadership programs. Membership keeps you current on management best practice and builds the network you need to reach executive roles.

Step 6: Apply for executive and senior management positions

With 10 or more years of experience and your qualifications in place, target executive or general manager roles. Positions exist across all sectors, including health care, financial services, manufacturing, and the public sector. Build your profile through industry networks and professional bodies.

What does an Executive Manager do?

An executive manager leads an organisation by setting its direction and making sure all parts work towards shared goals. Each day, they review performance data, consult with senior staff, and approve budgets and resource plans. They prepare reports for boards and represent the business at public events and forums. They also select senior staff who will carry out the organisation’s strategy.

Tasks

Executive managers guide organisations at the highest level. They make key decisions every day, from approving budgets to hiring senior leaders.

  • Setting objectives, strategies, and policies — they define where the organisation is headed and how it will get there
  • Providing overall direction — they lead the business and keep teams working towards shared goals
  • Approving resources — they decide how financial, human, and material resources are used to meet the organisation’s plans
  • Monitoring performance — they assess progress against goals and act when things need to change
  • Consulting senior staff — they work with department heads to review reports and make informed decisions
  • Preparing reports and budgets — they oversee financial and performance reporting to boards and governing bodies
  • Representing the organisation — they appear at events, negotiations, and public forums on behalf of the business
  • Selecting senior staff — they approve key appointments and build a strong leadership team
  • Ensuring legal compliance — they make sure the organisation follows company law and all relevant legislation

Skills for Success

To thrive as an executive manager, you need strong leadership and strategic thinking skills. You will guide senior teams, make high-level decisions, and set the course for the whole organisation. Communication is vital too. You will present to boards, lead negotiations, and represent the business in public.

Financial management skills are also essential. You will oversee budgets and resource allocation, so a solid grasp of numbers matters. Analytical thinking helps you read performance data and respond quickly. Adaptability and good judgement will carry you through the fast-changing challenges that come with any executive role.

Skills & Attributes

  • Leadership and team management
  • Strategic planning and thinking
  • Financial management and budgeting
  • Clear written and verbal communication
  • Problem-solving and decision-making
  • Negotiation skills
  • Project and resource management
  • Performance monitoring and evaluation
  • Change management
  • Stakeholder engagement
  • Regulatory compliance awareness
  • Analytical and data-driven thinking
  • Emotional intelligence
  • Team development and coaching

Average Salaries

The average salary for an executive manager in Australia is around $121,000 per year (PayScale, 2026). Starting salaries can be around $72,000 for those moving into their first executive role. Experienced managers in large organisations can earn up to $198,000 or more. Pay depends on industry, organisation size, and years of experience.

min $72 K

max $198 K

av $121 K

About the author

Laura Atkinson - Course Finder Groups
Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.