Sobhan Mohmand, Career Expert
5 Dec 2019
Overview
A Business Analyst works within an organisation to identify areas for improvement and implementing suitable solutions to make the business more profitable or efficient. This can involve inventing new systems or revamping existing areas of the business, including IT infrastructure, accounts, B2B activities and customer relations.
Business Analysts are based in an office; working closely with the company’s IT and finance departments. They usually work the standard working hours of 9-5, Monday to Friday.
Professionals working in this role should be flexible with their working hours, as they are expected to do overtime during busy periods or when the need arises.
Some travel may be required to meet clients and other stakeholders.
The starting salary for this role could be anything in the region of £30,000, depending on previous work experience and location.
The national average salary for a Business Analyst is £40,000 in the United Kingdom.
The industry that one chooses to work in can also have an effect on their salary. For example, if one works in the financial industry they will earn a higher income compared to other industries.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
Gaining employment in this role is very competitive.
A business-related degree is often the minimum requirement for those wanting to enter employment in this profession. Other degrees in subjects such as computer programming and IT are also favoured, which can give the candidate the required IT and business skills for the job.
Employers also greatly value relevant work experience and transferable skills.
This role can lead to many career opportunities, including promotion.
There are many paths to progress, including becoming a self-employed business analyst, project manager or company director.
Professionals working in this role may also decide to work in other industries such as finance and banking, as one will gain many transferable skills in this role which can be utilised in a variety of different jobs across different sectors.
According to government statistics, jobs in this role are projected to grow by 7% over the period to 2024 (Source: LMI for All).
International Institute of Business Analysis
http://www.iiba.org/