10 careers in international business and the skills you need

There’s never been a better time to understand international business. With fast developments in digitalisation, companies are given more opportunities to reach worldwide audiences, as well as procure goods and services from companies abroad. However, the advantages of global trade means understanding the implications of cultural differences, as well as the legislation and best business practices of other countries. Gaining a postgraduate degree in International Business can provide wider scope in terms of the various sectors you can work in and open doors to job roles at exciting international organisations. Whether your goal is to get a promotion or completely change your career, read on to be inspired by these 10 careers in international business and the skills you need to get them.

Here are 10 careers in international business worth considering:

International sales managers are responsible for growing global sales. They need to be able to produce and execute a sales plan that works globally, work closely with other teams such as marketing, and develop relationships with their international clients. Therefore, understanding global markets and being aware of other cultures and customs to build effective customer relations is a key skill for international sales managers.

A global brand marketing manager develops and implements marketing strategies to promote their company’s brand or brands on a global scale. They will manage campaigns, analyse and report on markets and campaign performance, and work closely with sales and product development. As such, they need to understand the legislative rules that govern advertising in various countries as well as the cultural nuances to make a campaign resonate.

Find out more about ARU’s MSc module - International Marketing and Brand Management.

Multinational organisations spanning several worldwide locations require HR managers that can oversee a global workforce to implement effective recruitment, retention, and development strategies. This means international human resource managers need to understand the different employment laws governing that country as well as appreciate the cultural differences to create a happier working environment.

Supply chain and logistics managers are responsible for the movement of goods from one location to another and, in most cases today, that means across global borders. Therefore, knowledge of logistics and transporting goods that meet international cross-border regulations is essential to reduce risk and improve efficiency and cost.

Find out more about ARU’s MSc module Supply Chain Strategy and Practice.

Financial traders use their expertise of global financial markets to buy and sell assets such as shares, stocks, bonds, etc., for banks and investors. They will monitor and analyse international financial markets to help predict how they will behave and speak to their international colleagues and clients to advise and execute trades. Understanding business and finance on an international level is paramount to this job role. Professionals and graduates looking at this career path can benefit from ARU’s graduate degree module Finance for Decision Making.

An international economist studies global financial systems, trade, and economic policies to understand how countries interact economically. They analyse data, forecast trends, and advise on international trade, inflation, and currency movements. They typically work for governments, international organisations (like the IMF or World Bank), multinational corporations, or research institutions.

An international management analyst helps organisations improve efficiency and profitability across their global operations. They do this by researching markets, evaluating business practices, and recommending solutions for international growth. Their key responsibilities include data analysis, strategy development, and optimising operational processes. Essential skills include problem-solving, cross-cultural communication, data interpretation, and knowledge of global business trends and regulations.

An auditor examines financial records to ensure accuracy, compliance, and efficiency. Internal auditors work within an organisation to improve operations and controls, while external auditors independently assess financial statements for stakeholders. In international business, auditors navigate diverse regulations and accounting standards across countries to ensure transparency and trust in global operations.

International financial managers are responsible for managing the financial operations of a company with a global reach. Their job role encompasses assessing global financial risk, analysing financial data, producing financial reports, managing foreign investments and funds, ensuring their organisation complies with international financial regulations, and looking at international financial strategies aligned with business objectives. An understanding of finance on an international scale is critical for this career choice.

Export-import managers oversee the shipment of goods to and from a country. Like supply chain and logistics managers, they need to optimise logistics for maximum efficiency and comply with regulations. The ability to plan is key as they will manage freight bookings and customs documents. Equally important is the ability to maintain good relationships with other stakeholders, such as agents and suppliers.

Please note that some of these job roles may require other qualifications and accreditation. It’s important to research the job requirements before committing to any course.

The skills you need to thrive in international business depends on the specific job role, but here is a list of skills that are helpful across all careers in international business:

• Ability to collaborate and work with others

With different regulations governing other countries, as well as the differing cultural nuances, it’s crucial to be able to work with colleagues and stakeholders both from home and abroad.

• Cultural awareness

An awareness of the culture of the country your customers, employees, and stakeholders reside in is important whether you’re forging client relationships, ensuring the wellbeing of your staff, or crafting a marketing message that resonates.

• Ability to analyse data on an international scale

Whether your role is financial, sales, marketing, economics, logistics, or you’re in senior leadership, being able to analyse and interpret data, both quantitative and qualitative, is necessary to understand the whole global picture as well as what’s happening in each country of interest.

• Communication

There’s a definite advantage to being able to communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing, when it comes to working for international businesses. It means you’re able to better convey ideas and strategies across cultures and mitigate misunderstanding.

• Adaptability

Global markets are always subject to change due to conflicts, politics, changes in regulations, or trends in consumer behaviour. Therefore, being able to adapt and problem-solve is a central soft skill to possess and develop.

Types of organisations you can work for when you embark on a career in international business:

• Multinationals: e.g., Apple, Google, Microsoft, Amazon.
• Banks and other financial institutions: e.g., World Bank, International Monetary Fund.
• NGOs: e.g., Oxfam, Save the Children, Doctors without Borders.
• Government agencies: e.g., The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), Department of Business and Trade.
• International organisations: e.g., United Nations, European Union, World Trade Organisation.

Find job opportunities in these sectors with a master’s in international business:

• Finance, investments, and economics
• Marketing and sales
• Consultancy
• Business and trade
• Entrepreneurship
• Logistics
• Imports and exports
• Charity on a global scale

Studying an online Master’s in International Business empowers you to thrive in a globally connected world, without pausing your career. Gain cutting-edge knowledge in global strategy, cross-cultural leadership, and international markets - all while building a powerful global network. Whether you're aiming to lead multinational teams, launch your own venture, or pivot into a new industry, this flexible, future-focused degree opens doors to high-impact roles worldwide and new opportunities.

Find out more about ARU’s distance learning MSc International Business degree.