Management Analyst Career

In an effort to turn a higher profit and run in a more resourceful manner, it’s no wonder that businesses, companies and organizations are constantly looking for ways to reduce costs and increase revenue. Management analysts (or management consultants) are trained to zero in on the most effective ways to gather and analyze data, improve productivity, and make the appropriate changes that bring results. A faith-based professional may permanently join the management team of a Christian business or seek other opportunities to improve the efficiency of companies that share the same religious beliefs.   

Job Activities & Responsibilities

Management analysts are hired to work for organizations and companies within an office setting, but may also visit a client’s site as a self-employed consultant. Because of this, travel is often a frequent activity for this career choice. Overall, an analyst’s work varies according to project and client/employer needs. One moment they’re working with a team of consultants, while the next is an independent adventure. A management analyst may specialize in a specific area (such as healthcare, telecommunications, or the government) which affects their day-to-day activities and responsibilities. The occupation generally involves the following duties:

  • Compiling and organizing information related to a specific problem or procedure
  • Assessing the equipment, business methods, and staff actions of a business or client
  • Reviewing the revenue, employment records, bills, and other financial data of clients
  • Developing the best course of active for achieving goals of productivity
  • Drafting written reports and presentations for management
  • Recommending new procedures, systems, and organizational changes

Education

Having at least a bachelor’s degree is a requirement for most management analysts to qualify for entry-level positions. Since a concentrated program in management analysis and consulting is rare at colleges and universities, it is not uncommon for a student to pursue a degree in business, economics, finance, marketing, or computer/information science. Those who wish to incorporate their religious beliefs and faith into their career often take electives and other courses related to theology, divinity and Christian studies. To advance in the field, having a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) is preferred by many employers.

Career Salary & Job Outlook

Hired to work in finance, government, and companies that provide an array of technical and professional services, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported in 2017 that management analysts earned a median yearly salary of $82,450, with some of the highest-paid professionals in the field earning over $152,000. Competition for analyst positions is fierce, as the high-earning potential is an attractive lure for jobseekers. Applicants who have a graduate degree; completed a certification process; possess a specialty; or are fluent in a foreign language, are usually viewed as a more desirable hire for employers.

Moving at a faster pace than the average of all other occupations in the United States, the employment of management analysts is expected to grow 14% from 2016 to 2026 – with 115,200 more job opportunities emerging during this time period. Companies and businesses are increasingly recognizing the advantage of using resources more efficiently, which means the expertise of a consultant, becomes more valuable. Industries anticipated to greatly escalate the number of new analyst positions within the next ten years include healthcare, cybersecurity, and information technology.