
Top 10 Highest-Paying Jobs with a Business Degree in Amsterdam
Studying for a business degree can unlock numerous career opportunities across a variety of industries, making it one of the most versatile and in-demand fields in the job market. With Amsterdam’s bustling economic hub, the city has become a magnet for ambitious professionals seeking lucrative careers. If you’re wondering about the highest-paying jobs with a business degree, this blog is for you.
What is a Business Degree?
A business degree is an academic qualification that provides comprehensive knowledge of business operations, focusing on various aspects, including finance, marketing, economics, management, and organizational strategy. This provides students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for the fast-paced business world today. Popular programs may include:
- Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
- Master of Science in Business Management (MBM)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
With these qualifications, graduates can explore different career opportunities with a business degree in corporate management, consulting, finance, and entrepreneurship.
Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs with a Business Degree in Amsterdam
- Business Manager
A Business Manager oversees daily operations, team performance, and long-term growth. This versatile role exists across all industries in Amsterdam, from hospitality and retail to professional services and manufacturing.
Average salary: €62,000–€100,000+ per year.
- Business Development Manager
A Business Development Manager drives company growth by identifying new opportunities, building partnerships, and expanding market presence.
Average salary: €55,000–€85,000 per year.
- Business Analyst
Business Analysts use data and analysis to help organizations make informed decisions, improve processes, and solve problems. Amsterdam’s data-driven business environment values professionals who can translate complex information into actionable insights.
Average salary: €45,000–€65,000 per year.
- Business Operations Specialist
Business Operations Specialists optimize workflows, implement efficiency improvements, and support strategic initiatives. This role is essential in Amsterdam’s fast-growing companies that need to scale operations efficiently.
Average salary: €38,000–€54,000 per year.
- Finance Director
Finance Directors oversee all financial operations of an organization, managing financial strategy, investments, and corporate budgeting. Amsterdam’s robust financial services sector, home to numerous banks, investment firms, and fintech companies, offers excellent opportunities for finance professionals.
Average salary: €110,000–€142,000 per year.
- Marketing Director
Marketing Directors lead branding, campaigns, and market expansion strategies to build brand awareness, drive customer acquisition, and increase revenue. Amsterdam’s creative industries and multinational corporations provide exciting opportunities for marketing leaders who can navigate both traditional and digital channels.
Average salary range: €100,000–€139,000 per year.
- Strategy/Management Consultant
Management consultants work with organizations to solve complex business problems, improve performance, and implement strategic changes. Amsterdam hosts offices of major consultant firms like McKinsey, BCG, and Bain, alongside independent consultancies specializing in different areas.
Average salary: €65,000–€84,000 per year.
- Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
The Chief Executive Officer is a pinnacle of corporate leadership, responsible for setting the company’s vision, making major decisions, and driving organizational success.
Average salary: €95,000–€135,000+ per year.
- Business Advisor / Senior Advisor
Business Advisors provide expert guidance to organizations on strategic matters, helping them navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities. Independent advisors and those working for advisory firms can command premium rates in Amsterdam’s sophisticated business environment.
Average salary: €51,000–€98,000 per year.
- IT Manager/Director (Business + Tech Roles)
IT Managers with business acumen bridge the gap between technology and business strategy, ensuring IT investments align with organizational goals. Amsterdam’s position as a European tech hub makes this one of the highest-paying jobs in Amsterdam with a business degree for those with technical inclinations.
Average salary: €100,000–€124,000 per year.
How to Get the Highest Paying Jobs in Amsterdam with a Business Degree?
Getting the best-paying jobs in Amsterdam requires more than just a business degree. You should consider:
- Choosing the right institution: Degrees from recognized institutions are highly valued by employers. Choose a reputable business program that provides both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
- Gaining internship experience: Most high-paying roles require significant experience. Apply for internships, entry-level positions, or work placements, as practical knowledge can give you an edge in competitive industries.
- Building an international network: Networking opens doors to new career opportunities. Join career fairs and workshops while studying to build those connections.
- Developing language skills: Speaking another language can boost your profile. Although English is widely spoken, learning Dutch can boost your career opportunities in the Netherlands.
- Specializing in high-demand fields: Degrees in finance, consulting, and tech-business roles pay the highest salaries.
- Stay on top of business trends: As the business landscape is always evolving, staying informed about the global economic trends and digital transformations will keep you updated on the current market.
Key Industries Hiring Business Graduates in Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s diverse global economy offers career opportunities with a business degree across multiple sectors:
Finance and Fintech
Amsterdam is a major European financial hub, home to numerous multinational banks, insurance companies, and fintech startups. The sector offers lucrative positions in corporate finance, investment management, and financial technology innovation.
Technology and IT
As a leading tech hub in Europe, it attracts companies like Uber, Netflix, and Tesla, along with successful Dutch tech companies and startups.
Consulting and Advisory Services
Many consulting firms and professional service providers, such as McKinsey, BCG, Deloitte, and PwC, offer high-paying positions for business graduates with strong analytical skills.
Marketing and Media
The creative sector, including advertising agencies, media companies, and design firms, offers opportunities for business graduates with marketing and creative interests.
Logistics and Trade
Amsterdam’s strategic location as a gateway to Europe makes it a logistics hub, creating demand for business professionals in supply chain management and operations.
Average Salary in Amsterdam with a Business Degree
Business degree holders in Amsterdam can expect to earn around €50,000 – €130,000 per year. This will depend on your experience, industry, and role. Senior executives, finance directors, and CEOs have the best-paying jobs in Amsterdam.
Enroll for the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) or MSc in Business Mangement (MBM) with UE Amsterdam
Ready to launch or accelerate your business career in Amsterdam?
The Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) at the University of Applied Sciences Europe – Amsterdam provides the perfect foundation to develop a strong understanding of international business, entrepreneurship, and management. You’ll gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills that prepare you for diverse roles in the global marketplace.
For those looking to take their expertise further, the The MSc in Business Management (MBM) at UE Amsterdam lets you earn a Master of Science in just 12 months, re-entering the job market quickly with advanced, future-focused credentials.
At UE Amsterdam, you’ll:
- Learn in a truly international academic environment
- Develop practical business skills through real-world projects and case studies
- Access industry connections in one of Europe’s most vibrant business hubs
- Receive guidance from a dedicated Career Development and Corporate Partnerships team, supporting you on your road to success
These degrees set you up for long-term success — opening doors to some of the highest-paying jobs in Amsterdam across industries such as finance, consulting, management, and technology.
Conclusion
A business degree is one of the best investments you can make in your education and your future. Whether you’re starting your journey with the BBA or advancing your career with the MSc in Business Management, UE Amsterdam’s strong curriculum and career support network empower you to achieve your professional and financial goals in Europe’s thriving business ecosystem.
FAQs
1. What business degree jobs pay the most in Amsterdam?
The highest-paying jobs in Amsterdam include Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Finance Director, and Marketing Director. These executive and senior leadership positions typically require 10-15+ years of experience and often advanced degrees like an MBA.
2. What is the salary for a Business Manager in Amsterdam?
Business Managers in Amsterdam typically earn around €62,000–€100,000+ per year, which also depends on industry, company, years of experience, and responsibilities.
3. Which business sectors have the best pay in Amsterdam?
The best paying business sectors include finance, consulting, e-commerce, logistics, and tech-related business roles.
4. Which business degree jobs in Amsterdam offer the best bonuses or incentives?
Sales and Business Development roles usually offer the highest bonus potential, often 20-40% of the base salary on performance.
5. Are there business degree jobs in Amsterdam with high pay and low stress?
Many high-paying positions involve significant responsibilities and pressure, but some business roles do have better work-life balance than others. Business Analyst and Advisor roles typically experience moderate stress and good pay.
6. Can you list the best-paying business degree jobs available in Amsterdam?
Here is a list of the best-paying jobs with a business degree: Business Managers, Finance Directors, CEOs, Marketing Directors, Strategy/Management Consultants, and IT Managers rank among the top in salary potential.