Are you interested in high-level commerce, working on large-scale projects, and driving business success? Do you enjoy analyzing complex situations, identifying client needs, and proposing innovative solutions that offer a competitive advantage? Are you drawn to the rapidly evolving world of digital disruptions, globalization, and emerging markets? If so, a career as a business engineer might be the perfect path for you. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you make informed career choices.

Description of the business engineer role

A business engineer is a key player in any organization, bridging the gap between business and engineering disciplines. This role requires a deep understanding of both the business and technical aspects of a project. A business engineer manages complex projects for their client portfolio, analyzing specific needs and offering suitable products and services that meet both current demands and future requirements. They ensure the successful execution of projects they oversee, from the initial design phase to the final customer satisfaction survey. In addition, business engineers often collaborate with various departments, including the legal and engineering teams, to ensure that all solutions are viable, both technically and commercially.

What are the main activities of a business engineer?

On a daily basis, the main activities of a business engineer include:

  • Networking and finding new clients, a critical activity for sustaining and growing the business,
  • Analyzing client needs and diagnostics to provide tailored solutions that align with the client's business objectives,
  • Negotiating and preparing commercial offers that reflect both the value of the product and the specific needs of the customer,
  • Overseeing contract drafting in collaboration with the legal team to ensure all applicable laws and regulations are followed,
  • Responding to calls for tenders with precise and competitive proposals,
  • Managing and monitoring projects to ensure they stay on track and meet all agreed-upon milestones,
  • Handling major accounts, building long-term relationships, and ensuring ongoing client satisfaction,
  • Coordinating partners and service providers to ensure seamless project execution,
  • Ensuring compliance with current regulations to maintain the company's good standing and legal status.

What are the studies to become a business engineer?

If you aim to work for leading companies in sectors like technology, automotive, or aerospace, a master's degree from a reputable school is essential. Your education will be the foundation of your technical and business acumen, equipping you with the necessary skills to succeed.

For students with a bachelor’s degree

The Master of Science in Global Sales Excellence is a comprehensive program that addresses sales transformation and sales management within a company. It places particular emphasis on sales excellence, sales processes optimization, leadership, and sales governance, as well as on customer relationship management, client engagement and acquisition. Students will gain insights into both the strategic and operational aspects of sales, making them well-prepared for the challenges of an internationally competitive market. This specialized program equips future sales leaders with all necessary skills to manage a large international salesforce within a global company.

For students with a master’s degree

The Specialized Program Stratégie & Développement des Affaires Internationales (taught only in French), offered by emlyon business school in partnership with CentraleSupélec Paris-Saclay, is a 13-month program designed to train highly skilled international business engineers. This program focuses on developing a deep understanding of global markets, business strategies, and the technology-driven innovations that are shaping the future of industries.

What is the salary of a business engineer?

On average, the salary of a business engineer evolves as follows:

  • Junior: €56,000 per year
  • Experienced: €75,000 per year
  • Senior: €90,000 per year

 

These figures can vary significantly depending on the size and prestige of the company, as well as the engineer's specific role and responsibilities. Moreover, salaries are often supplemented with bonuses and incentives, which are tied to individual and company performance. High-performing business engineers who successfully manage large-scale projects can expect substantial financial rewards.

What is the career progression for a business engineer?

With experience, a business engineer can specialize in a particular industry, whether it be automotive, aviation, agri-food, or technology. As they develop their expertise, they may take on more strategic roles, such as leading an engineering department or becoming a development manager or an international sales director. Some business engineers choose to move into entrepreneurship, starting their own consulting firms or technology startups, where they can apply their broad range of skills to build and grow new enterprises.

The business engineer in summary

In summary, a business engineer is a versatile professional who uses a blend of commercial, technical, legal, and relational skills to sell complex, high-value-added products and services. They are not only problem solvers but also innovators, constantly seeking new ways to improve business processes, develop new products, and drive growth opportunities. Their role is crucial in helping companies maintain a competitive edge in an increasingly global and technology-driven market.

Focus on emlyon business school

By choosing emlyon business school, you are selecting an institution with an international reputation for excellence in business education. The school is deeply committed to the success and employability of its students, offering programs that are both rigorous and relevant to the demands of the modern business world. Networking is crucial for a business engineer, and at emlyon, you will be supported by the school's extensive network of partner companies, alumni, and industry contacts throughout your career. Additionally, the school's focus on entrepreneurship and innovation ensures that you will graduate with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in a wide range of industries.