Careers in marketing

Robert Louis Stevenson aptly noted that "we all make a living selling something," and although marketing is a much broader endeavor than just sales, the underlying truth remains constant.

From medical professionals trying to get people to stop smoking to car manufacturers wanting potential customers to buy their latest model, marketing is pervasive in all aspects of our lives and is central to the success of any enterprise. New products and services have to be developed, communicated and delivered to relevant target audiences.

Due to the centrality of marketing in so many business endeavors, even individuals specializing in other business disciplines — Supply Chain Management or Finance, for example — find it beneficial to augment their degree program with courses in Marketing.

A number of interesting and dynamic career paths await you if you pursue the Marketing Major. Here is a list of some of the possible fields you may want to consider:

  • Advertising and promotions
  • Brand management
  • Digital marketing and social media
  • International Marketing
  • Logistics and distribution channel management
  • Management consulting
  • Market research
  • New product development
  • Management of not-for-profit entities
  • Retail management
  • Sales and sales management
  • Services marketing
  • Sports marketing
  • Technology commercialization

The basic objective of any firm is to market its goods or services. Marketing responsibilities vary among organizations and industries. In a small firm, the owner or president may assume marketing responsibilities. A large firm needs a staff of experienced marketing, advertising and public relations managers to coordinate these activities.

Although specific position titles may vary among firms, here is a list of typical marketing management positions:

  • Marketing, advertising, public relations, and brand managers
  • Sports marketing managers
  • Sales representatives
  • Advertising specialists
  • Public relations specialists
  • Purchasing agents and managers
  • Wholesale and retail buyers and merchandise managers
  • Market research analysts
  • Digital strategists
  • Online marketing managers
  • Search engine optimization specialists
  • Marketing communication specialists
  • Interactive media coordinators
  • Marketing analysts