Australia has a consistent demand for experienced professionals in executive and management roles across sectors such as finance, healthcare, construction, and technology. Companies seek strategic leaders to guide business growth and transformation.
Executive and management positions in Australia offer attractive salary packages, often including bonuses, superannuation, and other benefits like flexible working arrangements and company vehicles.
Australia's resilient economy provides a secure environment for leadership roles. With industries like mining, education, tourism, and renewable energy growing, executives have broad opportunities to lead innovation and expansion.
Australia is known for promoting a healthy work-life balance, even at senior levels. Many companies offer flexible schedules, remote work options, and ample vacation time, making it a great environment for executives seeking balance.
As a hub for international trade and investment in the Asia-Pacific region, Australia offers executives the chance to engage with global markets, manage international teams, and contribute to cross-border strategies.
Australia ranks high on ease of doing business and offers a transparent legal framework, robust corporate governance, and a pro-innovation culture that empowers executives to make impactful decisions.
Australia's creative sector—including media, advertising, film, fashion, digital content, and design—is rapidly growing. This growth fuels demand for innovative executives who can lead creative teams, manage projects, and deliver compelling content across platforms.
Australian creative agencies and production houses have a strong international presence. Working in executive roles here allows international candidates to gain exposure to globally recognized campaigns and brands, enhancing their professional portfolio.
Australia is known for its cultural diversity and inclusive business culture. Creative industries in particular value diverse perspectives, making it easier for international candidates to integrate, contribute fresh ideas, and lead diverse teams.
Creative executives in Australia often operate at the intersection of technology and storytelling. Roles in areas like creative direction, content strategy, and brand innovation offer international professionals the chance to lead bold, forward-thinking initiatives.
Australia actively encourages skilled migration. International professionals in creative management may qualify for employer-sponsored visas (such as the TSS visa) or even permanent residency under the Skilled Occupation List, depending on qualifications and
experience.
There’s significant support for creative entrepreneurs in Australia, through government grants, incubators, and co-working spaces. Executives with an entrepreneurial mindset can lead new ventures or scale creative startups in a supportive ecosystem.
Creative executives in Australia can expect competitive remuneration, especially in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne. Coupled with Australia's high quality of life, outdoor lifestyle, and excellent healthcare system, it’s an attractive destination for career and lifestyle.
Responsible for the overall direction and success of the organization. CEOs oversee strategic planning, company operations, and high-level decision-making.
Manages the day-to-day operations of a business. The COO ensures that departments are working efficiently and aligns operational goals with the company’s strategy.
Oversees the financial health of the company. CFOs handle budgeting, financial planning, risk management, and reporting to stakeholders.
Typically responsible for managing a business unit or region. GMs oversee staff performance, budgets, and strategic planning at the operational level.
Leads all marketing, branding, and advertising initiatives. This role is crucial in positioning the brand, generating leads, and driving business growth.
Oversees sales teams and strategies to drive revenue. Sales executives often work closely with marketing and operations to align goals.
Manages talent acquisition, employee relations, training, and organizational culture. Plays a key role in workforce planning and leadership development.
Leads the technology strategy and IT infrastructure of a company. CIOs ensure systems are secure, efficient, and aligned with business goals.
Oversees large projects or multiple programs. Ensures projects are completed on time, within budget, and meet strategic objectives.
Focused on optimizing internal processes and workflows. Often acts as the link between the executive team and day-to-day operations.
Common in media, advertising, and design industries. Leads creative vision, oversees campaigns, and manages creative teams.
Focuses on identifying growth opportunities, partnerships, and market expansion. Often works cross-functionally with sales, marketing, and finance.
Job Title |
Average Salary (AUD) |
USD (Approx.) |
INR (Approx.) |
---|---|---|---|
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) |
250,000 |
167,500 |
14,000,000 |
Chief Operating Officer (COO) |
220,000 |
147,400 |
12,320,000 |
Chief Financial Officer (CFO) |
210,000 |
140,700 |
11,760,000 |
General Manager (GM) |
180,000 |
120,600 |
10,080,000 |
Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) |
200,000 |
134,000 |
11,200,000 |
Sales Director |
190,000 |
127,300 |
10,640,000 |
Human Resources Director |
180,000 |
120,600 |
10,080,000 |
IT Director / CIO |
200,000 |
134,000 |
11,200,000 |
Project Director |
170,000 |
113,900 |
9,520,000 |
Operations Director |
175,000 |
117,250 |
9,800,000 |
Strategy Director |
180,000 |
120,600 |
10,080,000 |
Program Manager |
160,000 |
107,200 |
8,960,000 |
Business Development Manager |
150,000 |
100,500 |
8,400,000 |
Creative Director |
140,000 |
93,800 |
7,840,000 |
Finance Manager |
130,000 |
87,100 |
7,280,000 |
Marketing Manager |
125,000 |
83,750 |
7,000,000 |
Risk & Compliance Manager |
135,000 |
90,450 |
7,560,000 |
Engineering Manager |
145,000 |
97,150 |
8,120,000 |
Procurement Manager |
130,000 |
87,100 |
7,280,000 |
Customer Experience Manager |
120,000 |
80,400 |
6,720,000 |
Most executive and management positions require a bachelor’s degree in business, management, finance, marketing, or a related field. For higher-level roles (CEO, CFO, Director), a Master’s degree (e.g., MBA) is often preferred.
You typically need 5–15 years of relevant experience in leadership, strategic planning, operations, or project management. Demonstrating success in managing teams, departments, or company divisions is essential.
As Australia is an English-speaking country, international candidates must prove proficiency in English. Usually, a score of:
IELTS: 6.5 – 8.0
TOEFL iBT: 90 – 110
PTE Academic: 58 – 79
Exact requirements vary by visa type and employer.
Overseas qualifications may need to be assessed by Australian authorities (like VETASSESS or Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF)) to determine equivalency.
To work legally, international applicants must secure an appropriate visa. Popular options include:
Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa – Subclass 482
Requires employer sponsorship for skilled positions.
Skilled Independent Visa – Subclass 189
For applicants with qualifications and experience in occupations on the Skilled Occupation List.
Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) – Subclass 186
A pathway to permanent residency via employer sponsorship.
Your job must appear on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or Regional Occupation List (ROL). Roles like General Manager, Sales Director, Marketing Manager, Construction Manager, ICT Manager, etc., are often included.
Some executive roles, particularly in finance, legal, construction, and engineering, may require professional registration or membership with a recognized Australian authority.
Applicants must undergo:
Police clearance certificate
Health examination
These are standard for visa approval and employment screening.
In most cases, you'll need a valid job offer from an Australian employer willing to sponsor your visa unless you're applying under a skilled independent category.
Job Title |
General Roles & Responsibilities |
---|---|
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) |
Define company vision and strategy, lead overall operations, manage executive team, stakeholder relations. |
Chief Operating Officer (COO) |
Oversee daily business operations, implement strategic plans, manage performance and efficiency. |
Chief Financial Officer (CFO) |
Manage financial planning, reporting, budgeting, risk assessment, and compliance. |
General Manager (GM) |
Lead and manage business units, develop strategy, oversee budgets, staff, and business performance. |
Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) |
Drive marketing strategy, branding, advertising, and customer engagement initiatives. |
Sales Director |
Develop sales strategy, lead teams, achieve revenue targets, manage key client relationships. |
HR Director / CHRO |
Lead HR strategy, talent management, workforce planning, and organizational culture. |
IT Director / CIO |
Manage IT systems, cybersecurity, digital strategy, and tech innovation in alignment with business goals. |
Operations Director |
Streamline internal processes, supply chain, resource allocation, and team productivity. |
Strategy Director |
Drive long-term planning, market research, corporate strategy, and competitive positioning. |
Project Director |
Lead complex projects, manage cross-functional teams, timelines, budgets, and project goals. |
Program Manager |
Oversee a portfolio of projects, manage risks, ensure strategic alignment and resource coordination. |
Business Development Manager |
Identify new business opportunities, build partnerships, support expansion and sales growth. |
Creative Director |
Lead creative teams, develop campaign concepts, oversee brand visuals and storytelling. |
Marketing Manager |
Plan and execute campaigns, manage digital marketing, analytics, and lead generation. |
Finance Manager |
Handle financial reporting, compliance, audits, and team management within the finance department. |
Risk & Compliance Manager |
Develop policies to manage risk, ensure legal and regulatory compliance, conduct audits. |
Procurement Manager |
Manage purchasing processes, supplier relationships, contract negotiations, and cost control. |
Engineering Manager |
Oversee engineering projects, lead technical teams, ensure quality standards and timelines. |
Customer Experience Manager |
Enhance customer service strategy, analyze feedback, manage support teams, and boost satisfaction. |
Job Title |
Minimum Qualification |
Experience Required |
Visa Eligibility |
Special Requirements |
---|---|---|---|---|
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) |
MBA or Master’s in Business |
10–15+ years (executive level) |
ENS 186, Subclass 189, Subclass 482 |
Proven leadership, corporate governance experience |
Chief Operating Officer (COO) |
MBA / Business or Operations Mgmt |
10+ years |
Subclass 482, ENS 186 |
Strong operational and strategic skills |
Chief Financial Officer (CFO) |
CPA/CA + Master’s in Finance |
10+ years in finance leadership |
Subclass 186, 189, 482 |
CPA or CA Australia membership often preferred |
General Manager (GM) |
Bachelor’s / MBA |
8–12 years |
Subclass 482, 186 |
Leadership in relevant industry required |
Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) |
Bachelor’s / Master’s in Marketing |
8–12 years |
Subclass 482, 186, 189 |
Branding and digital strategy expertise |
Sales Director |
Bachelor’s in Business/Sales |
8–10 years |
Subclass 482, 186 |
Proven sales and team leadership record |
HR Director / CHRO |
Degree in HR / Industrial Relations |
8–12 years |
Subclass 186, 482 |
Knowledge of Australian labor laws |
IT Director / CIO |
Degree in IT / Computer Science |
8–12 years |
Subclass 482, 186, 189 |
Cybersecurity or enterprise IT experience |
Operations Director |
Degree in Business or Logistics |
7–10 years |
Subclass 482, 186 |
Supply chain/production systems knowledge |
Strategy Director |
MBA / Business Economics |
8–10 years |
Subclass 186, 189 |
Business consulting or strategic planning experience |
Project Director |
PMP + Relevant Degree |
8–10 years |
Subclass 482, 186 |
PMP/Prince2 Certification helpful |
Program Manager |
Degree + PM Certification |
7–10 years |
Subclass 482, 186 |
Managed multiple complex projects |
Business Development Manager |
Degree in Business or Marketing |
5–8 years |
Subclass 482, 186 |
B2B experience and networking ability |
Creative Director |
Degree in Design/Advertising |
7–10 years |
Subclass 482, 186 |
Creative portfolio and agency experience |
Marketing Manager |
Bachelor's in Marketing |
5–8 years |
Subclass 482, 186 |
SEO, SEM, digital tools (Google Ads, Analytics) |
Finance Manager |
CPA/CA + Bachelor's in Accounting |
5–8 years |
Subclass 186, 482 |
Accounting registration may be required |
Risk & Compliance Manager |
Degree in Law/Finance |
5–8 years |
Subclass 186, 189 |
Regulatory framework knowledge |
Procurement Manager |
Degree in Supply Chain/Business |
5–8 years |
Subclass 482, 186 |
Experience in sourcing, vendor contracts |
Engineering Manager |
Bachelor’s in Engineering |
8–10 years |
Subclass 186, 482 |
Chartered Engineer status preferred |
Customer Experience Manager |
Bachelor’s in Business or CRM |
4–6 years |
Subclass 482 |
CRM tools and customer satisfaction metrics knowledge |
Seniority Level |
Years of Experience |
Typical Roles |
Key Expectations |
---|---|---|---|
Mid-Level Management |
4–7 years |
Team Lead, Project Manager, Business Development Manager, Marketing Manager |
Team supervision, small budget control, departmental coordination. |
Upper Mid-Level |
7–10 years |
Program Manager, Sales Manager, Finance Manager, Operations Manager |
Department leadership, cross-functional collaboration, strategy execution. |
Senior Management |
10–15 years |
General Manager, HR Director, IT Director, Strategy Director |
Business unit leadership, policy development, P&L responsibility, executive reporting. |
Executive Level (C-Suite) |
12–20+ years |
CEO, CFO, COO, CMO, CIO |
Corporate governance, strategic direction, stakeholder engagement, board leadership. |
Company Name |
Industry |
Common Roles Hired |
Why They're Good for International Candidates |
---|---|---|---|
Commonwealth Bank (CBA) |
Banking & Finance |
CFO, Strategy Director, Risk Manager |
Global presence, sponsors skilled visas, diverse leadership teams |
Telstra |
Telecommunications |
CIO, Operations Manager, Project Director |
Focus on digital transformation; supports skilled migration |
BHP |
Mining & Resources |
General Manager, Procurement Director, COO |
Regularly hires internationally for technical and executive roles |
Woolworths Group |
Retail & FMCG |
Supply Chain Manager, GM Retail Ops, CMO |
One of Australia's largest employers with structured leadership programs |
Westpac |
Banking & Finance |
Compliance Director, Program Manager, CFO |
Open to global talent with financial expertise |
Qantas Airways |
Aviation |
Operations Manager, HR Director, Strategy Director |
Employs international executives for global operations |
Macquarie Group |
Investment Banking |
Investment Manager, Finance Director, CEO roles |
Known for hiring highly experienced global professionals |
Rio Tinto |
Mining & Engineering |
Engineering Manager, Operations Director, CEO |
Global mining giant, visa sponsorship for skilled managers |
CSL Limited |
Pharmaceuticals / Biotech |
R&D Director, Project Manager, Quality Head |
Recruits globally for leadership roles in science and operations |
Amazon Australia |
E-commerce & Tech |
Country Manager, Ops Director, Sales Director |
Tech-friendly, open to international leadership talent |
Accenture Australia |
Consulting & Tech |
Program Director, Strategy Manager, Digital Lead |
Hires across Asia-Pacific; values diverse executive experience |
PwC Australia |
Consulting & Finance |
Risk Director, Tax Lead, Business Manager |
Offers permanent residency pathways; sponsors overseas talent |
Deloitte Australia |
Consulting |
Project Director, Transformation Lead, CHRO |
Known for diversity and inclusion in executive recruitment |
Google Australia |
Tech / Internet Services |
Marketing Director, Head of Partnerships, Country Lead |
Frequently sponsors visas for senior roles |
ANZ Bank |
Banking |
CFO, Chief Risk Officer, GM Customer Experience |
Known for strong diversity recruitment in leadership |
Lendlease |
Construction & Real Estate |
Project Director, Property GM, Procurement Lead |
Global projects require international executive experience |
Origin Energy |
Energy |
Operations Head, Strategy Director, COO |
Focus on sustainable leadership and transformation |
IBM Australia |
Tech & Consulting |
Country GM, IT Director, Cloud Strategy Lead |
High demand for senior-level global tech leaders |
KPMG Australia |
Consulting & Audit |
Finance Transformation Lead, Risk Partner |
Supports work visas and international mobility |
Santos Ltd |
Oil & Gas |
Engineering Director, HSE Executive, Project Director |
Operates across APAC; needs skilled international leaders |
Job Title |
Avg. Salary (AUD) |
Job Requirements |
Top Hiring Companies |
General Roles & Responsibilities |
---|---|---|---|---|
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) |
$250,000+ |
MBA, 15+ yrs leadership, strategic & financial expertise |
BHP, Telstra, CSL, Westpac |
Set company vision, drive growth, manage executive leadership, report to board |
Chief Operating Officer (COO) |
$220,000 |
MBA, 12+ yrs in operations, team leadership |
Qantas, Origin Energy, Lendlease |
Oversee daily operations, implement business strategies, manage cross-functional teams |
Chief Financial Officer (CFO) |
$210,000 |
CPA/CA, 12+ yrs finance leadership, compliance knowledge |
CBA, Macquarie, Santos Ltd |
Lead financial planning, reporting, audits, budgeting, and risk management |
General Manager (GM) |
$180,000 |
Business degree, 10+ yrs management experience |
Woolworths, Amazon, ANZ |
Oversee department/business unit performance, manage teams, align with company strategy |
Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) |
$200,000 |
Marketing/Comms degree, 10+ yrs in branding, digital strategy |
Google, PwC, Telstra |
Lead marketing strategy, digital growth, brand positioning, and customer engagement |
Sales Director |
$190,000 |
Business/Marketing degree, 8–10 yrs sales leadership |
Salesforce, IBM, Amazon |
Create sales strategy, lead revenue generation, manage teams and key clients |
HR Director / CHRO |
$180,000 |
HR degree, 10+ yrs, knowledge of Australian labor laws |
Deloitte, Woolworths, KPMG |
Manage HR policies, workforce planning, compliance, diversity initiatives |
IT Director / CIO |
$200,000 |
IT/Computer Science degree, 10+ yrs in tech leadership |
IBM, Telstra, Accenture |
Lead IT systems, cybersecurity, digital innovation and enterprise transformation |
Operations Director |
$175,000 |
Business/Logistics degree, 8–10 yrs in operations |
Lendlease, Origin Energy, Rio Tinto |
Streamline operations, manage process efficiency, supply chain, and quality |
Strategy Director |
$180,000 |
MBA/Business Econ, 8–10 yrs in consulting or planning |
PwC, KPMG, ANZ |
Develop long-term strategies, conduct competitive analysis, support executive decision-making |
Project Director |
$170,000 |
PMP + relevant degree, 8–10 yrs in project leadership |
Santos, Lendlease, IBM |
Manage large-scale projects, timelines, stakeholders, and budgets |
Program Manager |
$160,000 |
Project Mgmt Cert, 7–10 yrs, cross-departmental leadership |
Telstra, Accenture, Qantas |
Coordinate multiple projects, manage risks and resources, align with strategic goals |
Business Development Manager |
$150,000 |
Business degree, 5–8 yrs in B2B sales or expansion |
Salesforce, Amazon, Macquarie |
Identify new opportunities, drive growth, manage partnerships and market entry |
Creative Director |
$140,000 |
Design/Marketing degree, 7–10 yrs, creative portfolio required |
Google, PwC, WPP Group |
Lead creative campaigns, branding, team direction, storytelling and innovation |
Marketing Manager |
$125,000 |
Marketing degree, 5–8 yrs, digital and campaign experience |
CBA, Telstra, Deloitte |
Execute marketing plans, manage digital platforms, SEO/SEM, analytics |
Finance Manager |
$130,000 |
CPA/CA, 6–8 yrs, accounting or finance background |
Westpac, KPMG, Santos |
Manage financial reports, audits, team leadership, and regulatory compliance |
Risk & Compliance Manager |
$135,000 |
Law/Finance degree, 5–8 yrs in compliance |
Macquarie, ANZ, PwC |
Develop compliance policies, conduct audits, ensure legal & regulatory adherence |
Procurement Manager |
$130,000 |
Business/Supply Chain degree, 5–8 yrs procurement experience |
Woolworths, Rio Tinto, Origin Energy |
Vendor negotiation, purchasing strategies, supply chain risk control |
Engineering Manager |
$145,000 |
Engineering degree, 8–10 yrs, Chartered status preferred |
BHP, Santos, Lendlease |
Lead engineering projects, manage technical teams, ensure delivery and safety |
Customer Experience Manager |
$120,000 |
Business or CRM background, 4–6 yrs in CX |
Telstra, ANZ, Qantas |
Enhance customer journey, manage service teams, improve feedback systems |
Visa Type |
Subclass |
Key Features |
Best For |
---|---|---|---|
Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa |
482 |
Employer-sponsored, valid for 2–4 years, possible pathway to PR. Requires occupation on STSOL/MLTSSL. |
Mid to senior managers with a job offer in Australia |
Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa |
186 |
Permanent visa, requires employer nomination and skills assessment. English and experience required. |
Senior executives offered long-term roles |
Skilled Independent Visa |
189 |
Points-tested, permanent visa. No employer sponsorship required. Must have skills on MLTSSL. |
Highly skilled, experienced managers with high points |
Skilled Nominated Visa |
190 |
State-nominated permanent visa. Requires skills on state occupation list and nomination approval. |
Skilled managers in demand in specific states |
Global Talent Visa (GTI) |
858 |
For highly accomplished executives in Tech, Finance, Resources, etc. Fast-tracked permanent residency. |
Senior executives or directors with international recognition |
Business Innovation and Investment Visa |
188/888 |
For individuals investing in or establishing a business in Australia. Includes innovation, investor, and entrepreneur streams. |
Business owners or investors planning expansion |
Temporary Graduate Visa |
485 |
For recent international graduates. Not a typical path for executives, but useful for MBA grads in Australia. |
Early-career candidates who studied in Australia |