As we enter 2025, Australia's job market continues to evolve, driven by technological advancements, economic uncertainties, and shifting business priorities. This year, certain roles are projected to offer the highest salaries, reflecting their strategic importance in a competitive market. Corporate jobs in Australia are expected to command impressive paychecks, particularly in industries like finance, technology, marketing, and construction.
This article explores the top 10 highest-paying business roles in Australia, the industries they belong to, why they pay so well, where they’re most commonly found, and what jobseekers should know to pursue these opportunities - whether you’re considering a career change or aiming for growth in your current field.
top 10 highest paying corporate jobs in Australia
-
1. chief executive officers (CEOs)
- Average salary: $260,000+ per year
- Why: CEOs carry ultimate responsibility for a company's success, overseeing operations, strategy, and profitability. They are navigating increasingly complex challenges, from digital transformation to ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) requirements. Their ability to steer organisations through change is highly valued, and their decisions impact the entire organisation.
- Industries: Finance, Technology, Renewable Energy, FMCG
- Where: Corporate headquarters in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
-
2. chief financial officers (CFOs)
- Average salary: $210,000 - $310,000 per year
- Why: CFOs manage an organisation’s financial planning, risk management, and reporting. They ensure financial stability and compliance in a competitive market. With rising economic pressures and interest rates, CFOs are essential for maintaining financial health and making strategic decisions to drive profitability.
- Industries: Banking, Real Estate, E-commerce
- Where: Sydney and Melbourne remain dominant, but regional hubs like Brisbane are gaining ground.
-
3. chief sustainability officers (CSOs)
- Average Salary: $200,000 - $280,000 per year
- Why: Sustainability is no longer optional; it's a core business strategy. CSOs lead efforts to meet government regulations, reduce environmental impact, and enhance brand reputation.
- Industries: Mining, Energy, FMCG
- Where: Nationwide, with roles concentrated in industries focused on ESG goals.
-
4. corporate lawyers (M&A specialists)
- Average Salary: $190,000 - $260,000 per year
- Why: Corporate lawyers handle high-stakes legal issues, including mergers, acquisitions, compliance, and intellectual property, which are critical to business operations. Mergers and acquisitions are expected to surge as companies adapt to economic and market changes, requiring top-tier legal expertise.
- Industries: Banking, Technology, Healthcare
- Where: Sydney and Melbourne, where legal and financial sectors thrive.
-
5. IT systems architects
- Average Salary: $150,000 - $180,000 per year
- Why: IT architects design and implement technology solutions that underpin business operations. As companies embrace AI and machine learning, IT architects are critical in designing systems that support innovation and operational efficiency. Their role is crucial in the digital transformation of companies.
- Industries: Technology, Finance, Consulting, Government
- Where: Tech hubs like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
-
6. marketing directors (digital specialists)
- Average Salary: $150,000 - $190,000 per year
- Why: Marketing directors are responsible for building brand visibility, customer engagement, and driving revenue through effective strategies. Digital-first marketing strategies are at the forefront of business success. Marketing directors adept at leveraging AI-driven analytics and personalisation tools are highly sought after.
- Industries: Retail, Technology, E-commerce.
- Where: Predominantly Sydney and Melbourne.
-
7. construction project directors
- Average Salary: $160,000 - $210,000 per year
- Why: These professionals oversee large-scale construction projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and to a high standard. Infrastructure projects, particularly in renewable energy and urban development, are booming, driving demand for experienced leaders.
- Industries: Construction, Infrastructure, Real Estate.
- Where: Growing cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
-
8. human resources directors
- Average Salary: $140,000 - $180,000 per year
- Why: HR directors shape workplace culture, manage talent acquisition, and lead workforce strategies critical to a company's success. Workforce transformation remains a top priority. HR directors with expertise in hybrid work, diversity, and employee retention are crucial for maintaining competitive teams.
- Industries: Professional Services, Technology, Healthcare.
- Where: Sydney, Melbourne, and regional hubs expanding workforce solutions.
-
9. investment bankers (ESG and sustainable finance experts)
- Average Salary: $170,000 - $260,000 per year
- Why: Investment bankers provide advisory services for mergers, acquisitions, and raising capital. Their work involves high-pressure environments and long hours. Investors are prioritising ESG-aligned opportunities, driving demand for bankers specialising in green financing and sustainable investments.
- Industries: Finance and Banking
- Where: Sydney, Australia’s financial capital and the ESG financing hub.
-
10. procurement managers
- Average Salary: $130,000 - $160,000 per year
- Why: Procurement managers optimise supply chain processes, negotiate contracts, and ensure cost savings, playing a critical role in operational efficiency. With global supply chains under scrutiny, procurement managers play a critical role in ensuring cost-effective and ethical sourcing.
- Industries: Manufacturing, FMCG, Technology
- Where: Manufacturing hubs and business centres like Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth.
-
11. management consultants
- Average Salary: $120,000 - $170,000 per year
- Why they pay well: Consultants offer expert advice to improve business operations, strategies, and processes, often driving substantial ROI for their clients.
- Industries: Consulting, Finance, Technology
- Where: National demand, concentrated in Sydney, Melbourne, and Canberra.
why do these jobs pay so well?
High salaries in business and corporate roles are driven by:
- Strategic impact: These jobs significantly influence a company’s bottom line, market position, and growth.
- Specialised expertise: Many roles require advanced education, years of experience, technical knowledge, or professional qualifications (e.g., MBAs, certifications).
- Leadership responsibility: Senior positions often involve managing teams, overseeing critical projects, and making decisions that affect the company, involving significant accountability.
- High demand: Industries like healthcare, technology, and mining face skill shortages, driving up salaries.
key trends influencing salaries in 2025
-
sustainability and ESG
Roles focused on sustainability are commanding higher salaries as companies adapt to consumer and regulatory expectations.
-
technology integration
The rise of AI, machine learning, and data-driven decision-making is creating demand for tech-savvy leaders across industries.
read more -
economic recovery
As businesses rebuild post-pandemic and respond to market volatility, strategic roles in finance and operations are more critical than ever.
-
globalisation of talent
The demand for highly skilled professionals is intensifying, particularly in industries like finance, tech, and construction.
how to land a high-paying job in 2025
-
upskill
Invest in leadership training, technical expertise, or professional certifications (e.g., CPA for finance, CIPD for HR). Consider certifications or degrees in emerging fields such as AI, ESG, or digital marketing.
read more -
stay informed
Follow industry trends to align your career trajectory with in-demand skills and roles.
-
gain experience
Practical experience is invaluable. Many high-paying roles require a proven track record. Start by building a portfolio of success in mid-level positions. Internships, apprenticeships, and entry-level roles can pave the way to high-paying positions.
-
network strategically
Join industry associations, attend corporate events, and build professional relationships with leaders in your field. Connect with professionals in high-growth industries to uncover opportunities.
-
target high-growth industries
Consider sectors experiencing rapid growth, such as technology, infrastructure, e-commerce, healthcare, and renewable energy.
-
be flexible
High-paying roles often require relocation or the ability to adapt to remote and hybrid working models.
As we step into 2025, the highest-paying business and corporate roles in Australia reflect the evolving priorities of organisations. From sustainability and technology to financial leadership, these careers not only offer substantial salaries but also the opportunity to make a significant impact.
To position yourself for success, stay informed, invest in your skills, and seek guidance from career mentors and expert recruitment professionals from specialist recruitment agencies such as Randstad who can help you land your dream job. The opportunities in 2025 are vast—make this the year you take your career to new heights.
looking for more high-paying career opportunities?
These top 10 roles are just the beginning when it comes to Australia’s highest-paying jobs in 2025. The business and corporate world is full of other lucrative opportunities across industries like technology, sustainability, and e-commerce.
Ready to explore even more high-paying roles? Check out part 2 of our series, where we dive into additional high-demand jobs that can take your career to the next level. Whether you’re looking to leverage emerging trends or find your niche in a growing field, Part 2 has you covered!
Search for your next dream job at Randstad.
Or find out how competitive your remuneration is with Randstad’s Salary Comparison Tool.