Account executives serve as a direct link between a company and its clients. Some work in a sales capacity, securing new business and maintaining customer relationships, while others inherit an account after the initial sale has been made, providing ongoing support and serving as a primary point of contact. Because they are responsible for creating and sustaining long-term customer relationships, account executives are essential to an organization’s success.
In today’s complex, constantly evolving marketplace, it takes a broad range of business skills to engage customers and retain their loyalty. Enrolling in the online Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Business Administration – Management program from Florida Institute of Technology can help you develop those skills and prepare for a career as an account executive.
National Account Executive Job Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that employment of sales managers — an occupational group that could include many account executives — will grow 6% from 2023 to 2033. This rate of growth is notably faster than the national average for all occupations.
An expanding economy, advances in technology and increased globalization are likely to drive demand for professionals who can help organizations attract new clients and maintain high levels of customer satisfaction. Growth may be particularly strong in areas like cloud-based services where information technology (IT) companies need skilled account executives to interface with ongoing customers and drive further sales growth through expanded contracts.
Account Executive Responsibilities and Job Duties
The primary goals of account executives are to build sales by prospecting for new clients and generate income by nurturing existing customer relationships. These professionals are in charge of account services, acting as a liaison between their company and a select group of clients. If customers have questions, concerns or requests, account executives will relay their needs to the appropriate individual or department within the company and follow up with the customer.
Account executives may plan, develop and execute sales strategies, often to meet an established quota. They are typically assigned a specific territory, product and/or brand, and maintain relationships with a specific number of customers to ensure personal attention. Other account executive duties include maintaining account records, such as order history and forecasting reports.
It is important for account executives to stay on top of developments in their industry, so they regularly attend training sessions, conferences and trade shows. At times, account executives may be called upon to analyze business goals and conduct market research on competitors, including product or service pricing and sales techniques. Making sales presentations to potential customers and preparing bids and contracts are additional job duties.
Account Executive Salary Potential
Potential salaries for account executives can vary widely depending on the specific role, company and industry. For example, the median annual salary for sales representatives in the manufacturing industry was $75,900 in 2024, according to BLS. BLS reports that sales managers in finance and insurance made a median salary of $173,230 in 2024, demonstrating the potential variance in earnings for account executives.
Plus, account executives often receive significant compensation in the form of performance-based bonuses. Numerous other factors can influence an individual’s salary potential and employment opportunities, including level of educational attainment and work history, as well as regional and national economic conditions.
Account Executive Requirements for Education and Training
Education requirements for account executives also vary substantially due to industry and role or title differences. For instance, according to BLS, wholesale and manufacturing sales representatives in certain industries may land an entry-level job with only a high school diploma. Yet more technical industries generally require a bachelor’s. BLS also notes that sales managers typically need a bachelor’s degree — regardless of industry.
Employers generally favor candidates with a strong knowledge of business and finance, which can be obtained through a BA in business administration degree. A management-focused program like Florida Tech’s can be particularly useful due to the focus on leadership and interacting with multiple stakeholders.
Coursework in a business management degree program typically includes essential business skills, strategic management, finance for managers, principles of management, business plan research, and organizational behavior and development. Employers can expect graduates of a business administration program with a concentration in management are able to:
- Use quantitative techniques to analyze results and make decisions
- Demonstrate effective business communication skills
- Exercise sound decision-making abilities
- Identify workplace problems and recommend solutions
Prior sales or customer service experience can also be beneficial to individuals seeking a career in this field. Through employer-sponsored programs, it may be possible to gain an entry-level position with a bachelor’s degree and then use tuition assistance to attain a master’s degree.
Is an Account Executive Career in Your Future?
Account executives need sharp communication and interpersonal skills, as well as self-confidence and good judgment. A knack for presentations and persuasion are also helpful attributes.
If you have these qualities, pursuing an business degree can provide the educational foundation necessary to embark on a career as an account executive. Plus, with the 100% online design of Florida Tech’s BA in Business Administration – Management program, you can continue working and gaining experience while you complete your career-advancing degree.
Learn more about Florida Tech’s online BA in Business Administration – Management program.
