What does a business administrator do

What does a business administrator do

In business, day-to-day operations are as important as long-term plans for the future. A career in business touches on information technology, leadership dynamics and increasingly on ethics and international relationships. There’s incredible room for growth in the field. When you find the right “fit,” you’ll find that working your way up the ladder may be both challenging and rewarding. Plus, skills you acquire in one capacity will translate into others as your career path evolves.

Many top business executives will get their start working in office administration or in hospitality, retail, sales or operations management. Executives and administrators work in every industry, from one-person businesses to firms with thousands of employees.

On the job, business administrators:

• Establish and carry out departmental or organizational goals, policies and procedures
• Direct and oversee an organization’s financial and budgetary activities
• Manage general activities related to making products and providing services
• Innovate by applying new technologies in the workplace
• Consult with other executives, staff and board members about operations
• Negotiate or approve contracts and agreements
• Appoint department heads and managers
• Analyze financial statements, sales reports and other performance indicators
• Identify places to cut costs and to improve performance, policies and programs

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 2016-17 Occupational Outlook Handbook Top Executives.

Some typical arenas for work include general management, hospitality management, office administration, operations management, retail management and sales management.