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How to Become an Executive Manager: Australian Careers in Business Management

3 Courses

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What is a Executive Manager?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Executive Manager?

An executive manager sets the strategic direction of an organisation and ensures it runs well day to day. They lead senior teams, manage resources, and make high-level decisions that affect the whole business. Executive managers work across many industries, from professional services and health care to manufacturing and financial services.

In this role, they set goals and build policies that guide the whole organisation. They approve budgets, review performance reports, and consult with senior staff to keep things on track. They also speak on behalf of their organisation at industry events, in negotiations, and at public forums.

Executive managers hire and develop senior staff. They make sure the organisation meets its legal obligations and adapt strategy when the business environment changes.

This career offers real responsibility and the chance to shape an organisation’s future. It suits people who enjoy leading teams, solving complex problems, and driving results at the highest level.

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Career snapshots For Executive Managers

Executive managers hold the most senior operational roles in any organisation. The average salary for a general manager in Australia is around $121,000 a year (PayScale, 2026). Top earners can reach $198,000 or more. This is a full-time, senior career that typically needs at least 10 years of management experience.

Most executive managers work around 50 hours per week on a permanent basis. The average age in this role is around 51 years (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). This reflects the years of progressive experience needed to reach executive level. Future demand is rated as moderate by the Australian Government, with around 4,600 new roles expected each year.

This career spans many industries. Key sectors include professional services, health care, financial and insurance services, and manufacturing. Managers who build expertise in high-growth areas can expect strong long-term prospects.

What will I do?

The main work of an executive manager is to lead an organisation towards its goals. They make high-level decisions, manage senior staff, and keep the business aligned with its strategy. Daily tasks cover planning, oversight, reporting, and representation.

  • Setting objectives, strategies, and policies for the organisation
  • Providing overall direction and leadership to the business
  • Approving the use of financial, human, and material resources
  • Monitoring performance against goals and targets
  • Consulting senior staff and reviewing their recommendations and reports
  • Preparing and presenting reports, budgets, and forecasts to governing bodies
  • Representing the organisation at events, negotiations, and public forums
  • Selecting and approving the appointment of senior staff
  • Ensuring compliance with company law and other relevant legislation

What skills do I need?

Executive managers need a mix of leadership, business, and people skills. Strong leadership is the most important trait. They must guide senior teams and inspire confidence across the whole organisation. Clear communication matters too, as they present reports to boards and speak on behalf of the business in public settings.

Financial skills are also key. Executive managers set budgets, manage resources, and review financial performance. They make sound decisions with complex data, often under pressure. Problem-solving, resilience, and the ability to adapt to change round out the skill set for this 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

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Career Outcomes