Marketing sales managers not only analyze markets to determine demand for products and services, but help plan advertising and promotions as well.
Marketing sales managers analyze the markets for their company's products and services in an effort to increase profits. They help determine the types of products that their company should sell, and aid in creating ad campaigns to promote them. Marketing sales managers usually begin in entry-level marketing or sales positions, and advance to managerial roles after acquiring the necessary experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 175,600 marketing managers employed in the United States in 2008. Growth is expected in the field, though opportunities for marketing sales managers will be affected by the state of the industry in which they are employed.
Duties
Marketing sales managers study sales statistics to determine the demand for their company's products and services. They also study the demand for competitors' products as well to have a better understanding of the market. Marketing sales managers must find potential markets and customers for their products and create pricing strategies that will generate sales while maximizing the company's profits and market share. They also monitor markets to identify trends and new products that may sell well. Marketing sales managers often supervise product development as well. They foster relationships with distributors and dealers, so they are better able to monitor customer preference. In addition, they may work with the company's advertising department to create advertising and promotions that help generate interest in the company's products and services.
Education
For most marketing positions, a bachelor's or master's degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing is usually preferred. Students should takes courses in marketing, economics, finance, statistics and business law, and complete a marketing internship to gain experience in the field. Marketing sales managers who work in technical fields may pursue a degree in science or engineering. Many marketing sales managers also learn necessary skills by working entry-level marketing positions and training on the job. Those interested in a marketing or sales career should also receive computer training, including Web design, because more and more marketing and sales promotions are Internet-based.
Working Conditions
Marketing sales managers usually work in offices, but are sometimes required to travel to customer meetings. They often work long hours, including nights and weekends. Marketing sales managers often face a great deal of pressure because they are usually working under deadlines and must meet sales goals.
Salary
According to PayScale, a salary information website, the median salary for marketing managers with less than a year of experience ranged from $32,750 to $50,798. Those with one to four years of experience earned between $38,578 and $57,039, while those with five to nine years of experience earned between $48,770 and $74,067. Marketing managers with more than 20 years of experience were paid as much as $102,586.
Employment Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that employment for marketing managers will increase 12 percent between 2008 and 2018, which is a faster rate than the average for all occupations. Marketing and sales personnel are often considered some of a company's most vital employees, so they are less likely to be downsized than other managers. Opportunities will depend largely on the growth or decline of the industries in which they are employed. Candidates with a college degree and significant professional experience should enjoy the best prospects.
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