Become aBusiness Intelligence Analyst

As a Business Intelligence Analyst, you’ll be at the forefront of uncovering insights that drive success. If you love digging into data, finding patterns, and making a real impact, this could be the career for you.

High Demand

Business Intelligence Analysts are in high demand across Australia, with job growth expected to increase by 28% over the next five years (Seek, 2023).

Well Paid Roles

The average salary for a BI Analyst in Australia is around $100,000 per year (Indeed, 2023).

Diverse Opportunities

BI Analysts can work in various industries, from finance and healthcare to retail and technology.

As a Business Intelligence Analyst, you’re like SuperWoman with a spreadsheet. Your main mission? To analyse data, spot trends, and provide valuable insights that help businesses make informed decisions. 

From identifying opportunities for growth, predicting customer behaviour, or optimising processes, you’ll be the go-to person for all things data driven in business.

Data Analysis

Collecting, analysing, and interpreting complex data sets to help organisations make informed decisions.

Report Creation

Developing detailed reports, dashboards, and visualisations to present data insights clearly and effectively.

Trend Identification

Spotting trends and patterns in data that can help predict future business outcomes.

Problem Solving

Providing actionable recommendations to improve business processes and performance.

Collaboration

Working closely with different departments, such as marketing, sales, and finance, to understand their data needs and provide insights.

Business Intelligence Analysts are in demand across a range of industries where data driven decision making is key.

• Finance
• Retail
• Healthcare
• Technology
• Marketing
• Manufacturing

Your journey as a Business Intelligence Analyst will equip you with essential skills to crunch numbers and spark strategic insights.

• Data Analysis
• Critical Thinking
• Problem Solving
• Communication
• Attention to Detail
• Business Acumen

At high school your STEM subjects lay the foundation for your future success!

Can you fuel your passion for data analysis by immersing yourself in your STEM studies. You don’t have to be top of the class, you just have to commit to being present during your lessons and trying your best

Mathematics

Develop your analytical skills and understanding of statistical methods.

Business Studies

Learn about organisational strategies and decision making processes.

Computer Science

Gain expertise in data analysis tools and techniques.

Economics

Understand market trends and consumer behaviour.

Information Technology

Explore database management and data visualisation.

Communication Studies

Develop your ability to present data insights effectively.

As a Business Intelligence Analyst, could do anything from uncovering hidden insights in data to shaping strategic decisions that drive business success. You’ll be behind the scenes, using your analytical superpowers to make a real difference in the corporate sector.

Uncover Hidden Trends in Customer Data

Analyse millions of data points to discover how customers behave, helping companies like Spotify or Netflix personalised recommendations.

Help Companies Make Smarter Decisions

Present key insights to company executives, allowing businesses to make decisions that increase profits or streamline operations.

Visualise Data Using Cool Software

Use tools like Tableau or Power BI to turn raw data into interactive visualisations that look like digital art, making complex data easy to understand.

Optimise Marketing Campaigns

Analyse the success of social media campaigns, helping brands understand what’s working and what needs improvement, making marketing more effective.

Predict Future Business Trends

Work with predictive analytics to forecast future trends, helping companies stay ahead of the competition.

Improve the Customer Experience

Analyse feedback data from customers to suggest changes in products or services, ensuring that businesses continuously improve what they offer.

While tech wonders may not get as many followers as your fave TikTok influencers, there are some pretty cool women in the data and business intelligence sectors….

Sara Colman

A BI expert at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), Sara leverages data to optimise media delivery and improve audience engagement.

Ruth Marshall

A leader in business analytics, Ruth has worked in various industries, using BI to drive smarter business decisions and enhance company performance.

Emma Dawson

As the Head of BI at an Australian fintech firm, Emma uses data analytics to streamline financial services and improve user experiences.

Fiona Brookes

A specialist in data-driven decision-making, Fiona has worked with multiple industries, including retail and healthcare, to improve operational efficiency through BI.

As a Business Intelligence Analyst here are a range of personality traits that could guide you through complex data analysis and strategic decision making.

• Analytical
• Strategic
• Curious
• Creative
• Collaborative
• Detail Oriented

So, what kind of degrees can set you on the path to becoming a Business Intelligence Analyst? Here are a few options to consider:

• Bachelor of Data Science – Learn how to collect, analyse, and interpret data.
• Bachelor of Business Analytics – Combines business and technical skills for data analysis.
• Bachelor of Information Technology – Focuses on the technical aspects of data management.
• Bachelor of Economics – Provides an understanding of economic data and trends.
• Bachelor of Business Administration – Learn how data supports business decision-making.

More information:

Bachelor of Commerce (Business Information Systems)

Curtin University in Western Australia offers a Bachelor of Commerce (Business Information Systems), which provides essential skills in data analysis, database management, and business operations, laying the groundwork for a BI career.

Master of Data Science

The University of Western Australia offers a Master of Data Science, which includes modules on data visualisation, machine learning, and business decision making.

Becoming a Business Intelligence Analyst isn’t just about sticking to one subject – it’s about embracing the power of interdisciplinary learning. Imagine combining your passion for data with other fields like psychology, sociology, or even marketing. By blending different areas of knowledge, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how data can drive business success and make a real impact.

Uncover data analysis, statistical modelling, and business strategy! During your studies, you’ll learn how to:

• Collect, clean, and analyse data from various sources.
• Master tools and techniques for data visualisation and storytelling
• Turn complex information into clear insights that drive decision-making
• Programming languages like Python and SQL
• Data mining and machine learning algorithms

Your studies will build a toolkit of skills that will set you apart in business intelligence.

Aspiring Business Intelligence Analysts can also start their careers through internships, work placements, or even personal projects. Imagine getting to work with real data, collaborating with teams, and seeing your insights in action. It’s a chance to put your skills to the test, build your portfolio, and make valuable connections in the industry.

Not so sure university is right for you? That is OK too! There are always alternative pathways and it is all part of the squiggly line journey!

Technical Certification in BI Tools, SQL and Database Management

Certification in BI platforms such as Power BI, Tableau, or Qlik is highly valued. You can get these certifications online and receive hands-on experience with the tools used to analyse and visualise data. Proficiency in SQL is crucial for querying databases, and certifications in SQL or database management systems like Oracle or Microsoft SQL Server are essential for BI roles.

Internships and Entry-Level Positions

BI internships let you develop and apply your skills in modern settings. You can start in roles like Data Analyst or Junior BI Analyst, which allow you to build foundational skills in data collection, analysis, and reporting before progressing into more senior BI roles.

Bootcamps and Self-Learning

Short, intensive training courses focused on business intelligence tools and data analysis techniques can fast track you into the industry. Bootcamps like General Assembly offer practical projects that build real skills. 

Many aspiring BI Analysts teach themselves using free online resources and platforms such as DataCamp or Coursera. These platforms offer specialised courses in BI tools, data analysis, and visualisation.

Attending Industry Events and Meetups

Attending conferences like the Business Intelligence Summit or local meetups can help students connect with industry professionals, learn about the latest trends, and find job opportunities.

Joining Professional Associations

Joining groups like the Institute of Analytics Professionals of Australia (IAPA) can provide access to valuable resources, networking events, and training opportunities.

Business Intelligence Analysts are in demand across Australia, offering opportunities in a wide range of industries and locations. 

From Perth, where BI is used heavily in the mining and resources sector, to Sydney and Melbourne, which house thriving finance and tech industries, BI Analysts play a critical role in helping companies turn data into strategic decisions. 

Whether in healthcare, retail, government, or startups, BI Analysts are essential for businesses looking to stay competitive and innovative in a data driven society.