How much does a Business Director make?
A Business Director plays a key role in guiding a company's strategic direction. They work to improve business performance and ensure that the company meets its goals. The average yearly salary for a Business Director is around $134,416. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the size of the company.
Business Directors often earn more as they gain more experience. Entry-level directors might start with a salary around $37,000. Those with more experience can earn over $250,000 a year. Some of the top earners in this field make more than $275,000 annually. This high salary reflects the important role they play in the success of a company.
What are the highest paying cities for a Business Director?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $186,877
San Jose offers a dynamic environment for business leaders. With tech giants like Apple and Cisco, the city thrives on innovation. A business director here can expect to lead impactful projects and work with top-tier companies.
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Fort Collins, CO
Average Salary: $186,350
Fort Collins provides a unique blend of urban and outdoor opportunities. Home to companies like HP and Lockheed Martin, it's a great place for business directors. The city's vibrant community and natural beauty make it an attractive place to work.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $186,079
San Francisco is a hub for business innovation. With companies like Google and Salesforce, the city offers a competitive environment. Business directors here can expect to lead cutting-edge projects and work with top talent.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $172,002
Boston is a historic city with a strong business presence. Home to companies like Fidelity and Liberty Mutual, it offers a rich environment for business directors. The city's educational institutions and business networks provide ample opportunities for growth.
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Madison, WI
Average Salary: $171,000
Madison offers a balanced lifestyle with a strong business community. Companies like Epic Systems and American Family Insurance provide excellent opportunities. Business directors here can enjoy a high quality of life while leading impactful projects.
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Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $170,385
Des Moines is a growing city with a solid business foundation. Companies like Principal Financial Group and Hy-Vee offer great opportunities. Business directors here can enjoy a lower cost of living while working in a supportive environment.
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Tallahassee, FL
Average Salary: $169,523
Tallahassee offers a unique blend of government and business opportunities. With companies like Bank of America and Florida State University, it's a great place for business directors. The city's political influence and business networks provide ample opportunities for growth.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $166,344
Hartford is a historic city with a strong business presence. Home to companies like Aetna and United Technologies, it offers a rich environment for business directors. The city's educational institutions and business networks provide ample opportunities for growth.
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Cleveland, OH
Average Salary: $164,596
Cleveland offers a vibrant business environment with a strong focus on manufacturing. Companies like Sherwin-Williams and KeyCorp provide excellent opportunities. Business directors here can enjoy a lower cost of living while working in a dynamic city.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $160,444
Atlanta is a growing city with a strong business presence. Home to companies like Coca-Cola and Delta Air Lines, it offers a competitive environment. Business directors here can expect to lead impactful projects and work with top talent.
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What are the best companies a Business Director can work for?

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Novartis
Average Salary: $256,909
Novartis offers exciting Business Director roles with a focus on global health. The company operates in many countries, including Switzerland, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Novartis aims to discover new ways to improve and extend people's lives.
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KPMG
Average Salary: $236,600
KPMG provides dynamic Business Director positions. KPMG operates in over 150 countries, offering diverse opportunities. KPMG focuses on audit, tax, and advisory services, helping clients achieve their goals.
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Abbott
Average Salary: $232,100
Abbott offers rewarding Business Director roles. The company operates in more than 160 countries. Abbott focuses on health and nutrition, aiming to improve lives through innovative products.
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Wells Fargo
Average Salary: $230,690
Wells Fargo provides competitive Business Director positions. The company operates across the United States and in several international locations. Wells Fargo focuses on financial services, helping clients achieve their financial goals.
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Woodward, Inc.
Average Salary: $216,000
Woodward, Inc. offers promising Business Director roles. The company operates globally, with a strong presence in the United States, Europe, and Asia. Woodward, Inc. focuses on control technologies and automation solutions.
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Adobe
Average Salary: $214,786
Adobe provides innovative Business Director positions. The company operates worldwide, with major offices in the United States and Europe. Adobe focuses on creativity and digital media, helping professionals create stunning content.
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Microsoft
Average Salary: $213,008
Microsoft offers exciting Business Director roles. The company operates globally, with headquarters in the United States and offices worldwide. Microsoft focuses on technology and software, aiming to empower every person and organization.
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Charles Schwab
Average Salary: $204,058
Charles Schwab provides rewarding Business Director positions. The company operates in the United States, focusing on financial services. Charles Schwab aims to help individuals and families achieve their financial goals.
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Syneos Health Commercial Solutions
Average Salary: $195,886
Syneos Health Commercial Solutions offers dynamic Business Director roles. The company operates globally, with a strong presence in North America, Europe, and Asia. The company focuses on clinical research and commercial solutions for the healthcare industry.
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Riveron
Average Salary: $190,548
Riveron provides promising Business Director positions. The company operates globally, with a focus on delivering innovative solutions. Riveron aims to help businesses achieve their strategic goals through technology and consulting services.
How to earn more as a Business Director?
A Business Director can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. They should aim for continuous improvement in their leadership skills. This includes staying updated on industry trends and best practices. Attending workshops and seminars can provide valuable insights. Networking with other professionals can open up new opportunities for growth and higher-paying positions.
Another factor is gaining experience in different sectors. This broadens a Business Director's skill set and makes them more versatile. A diverse background can lead to higher-paying roles. It also increases the chances of being considered for executive positions. Business Directors should seek out roles that challenge them and push their boundaries. This experience is invaluable and can lead to significant pay increases. Additionally, obtaining advanced certifications can enhance a Business Director's credentials. These certifications can make them more attractive to employers willing to pay a premium for skilled leaders.
Here are five factors that can help a Business Director earn more:
- Continuously improve leadership skills.
- Gain experience in different sectors.
- Attend workshops and seminars.
- Network with other professionals.
- Obtain advanced certifications.