Becoming Business Unit Manager

A business unit manager ensures that the company’s business goals are achieved in a foreign country or new region. They are responsible not only for setting up the subsidiary in a different environment but also for managing its daily operations and maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction. This role involves overseeing the production of goods or delivery of services to meet customer expectations. The subsidiary manager oversees their team and the subsidiary's or business unit’s growth, with a focus on human resources management and quality of service. Understanding the local business strategy while adhering to the parent company’s policies is essential for this role.

Business unit managers must identify new business opportunities that align with the company's strategic goals. This involves not only driving sales and revenue growth but also ensuring that the subsidiary’s product and service offerings are competitive and relevant to the local market. The responsibilities of a business unit manager are extensive, encompassing job functions that range from overseeing manufacturing processes to financial management and customer relations.

This position is ideal for those interested in working abroad or relocating. Therefore, the manager must be proficient in the local language and familiar with local laws. This knowledge helps adapt the business to the local market’s specifics, ensuring the company's success. A deep understanding of the local market and active monitoring of international trends are also crucial. The ability to plan effectively and segment the market correctly can significantly enhance the success rate of the business unit.

The activities of a business unit manager are diverse due to the importance of the role and evolving company needs. Generally, the subsidiary manager must oversee all departments and implement effective strategies for each area. This includes managing both the day-to-day operations and the long-term strategic planning necessary for sustained growth.

Team management is a key aspect of the role. The manager must motivate the team to improve performance and develop new skills, which requires strong leadership skills and effective communication. Conflict resolution is also a necessary skill, as managing a diverse team in a new environment can present unique challenges. Additional responsibilities include developing the commercial strategy, securing partnerships, finding clients, managing the company’s budget, and overseeing financial and technical aspects.

Business unit managers are also responsible for the financial performance of their units. This includes setting budgets, monitoring costs, and ensuring profitability. The ability to analyze financial data and make informed decisions is crucial for achieving business goals and objectives. In addition to financial oversight, business unit managers must ensure that all business processes are efficient and cost-effective. This often involves implementing continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity and reduce waste.

A subsidiary manager should be versatile, adept at working in a team, negotiating contracts, and conducting market analysis. Essential skills include a deep understanding of business law and the ability to manage business operations effectively. Proficiency in the local language of the subsidiary's country and English is critical, as is strong organizational and autonomous skills. These qualifications enable the manager to analyze the subsidiary's financial situation accurately and manage costs effectively.

Effective accounting management to generate profits is another key requirement, as is the ability to make strategic decisions that align with the company's overall mission. Excellent interpersonal skills are necessary to motivate the team long-term and maintain high levels of employee engagement. Additionally, significant experience in the commercial sector and the ability to build strong relationships with local stakeholders are crucial for success in this role. Having a robust business unit manager resume that highlights these skills and experiences can significantly enhance career prospects.

Pursuing a degree from a business school is generally recommended to become a business unit manager. This role requires extensive knowledge in management, sales, and marketing. Subsidiary managers are often recruited with a master’s degree or higher, such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA), which provides comprehensive training in business management, project management, and strategic planning.

The Master of Science in Global Sales Excellence is a comprehensive program that covers sales management and transformation within a company. It emphasizes management, leadership, governance, and client engagement. This 18-month program will equip you with all the skills needed for top-level sales management roles, including those of a senior national sales manager or a business unit manager.

The Specialized Program in International Business Strategy & Development (taught only in French) at emlyon business school prepares you for senior positions in commercial or engineering roles within renowned international companies. This program provides essential skills for the business unit manager role, focusing on strategic goals, business process optimization, and financial management.

A subsidiary manager's salary varies based on experience:

• Junior: €40,000 to €50,000 gross annually
• Experienced: €50,000 to €70,000 gross annually
• Senior: €70,000 to €100,000 gross annually

Within the same company, a business unit manager can advance to roles such as sales director, regional director, or general director. They may also start their own business or become a consultant to assist other companies with their business development. Additional career advancements include positions at the headquarters or roles with increased responsibility in the parent company. Business unit managers may also transition into senior management roles, where they can leverage their leadership skills and experience in financial management, project management, and business operations.

The business unit manager acts as a key leader for the company, managing the subsidiary effectively to ensure its success by optimizing both local and international operations. Their ability to implement strategic plans, meet performance standards, and guide their teams towards achieving business objectives is critical for the growth and profitability of the subsidiary. The role requires a balance of strategic oversight and hands-on management to drive results and maintain high levels of customer satisfaction.

emlyon business school in Lyon is ranked among the top 4 business schools in France. Attending this prestigious institution guarantees a smooth transition into the professional world upon graduation, with high-quality training tailored to global market demands. Graduates from emlyon are well-equipped to meet the rigorous requirements of today’s business environment, excelling in both written and verbal communication skills, strategic thinking, and operational execution. The school’s emphasis on real-world learning and professional development ensures that students are ready to lead and manage effectively in their chosen career paths.