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Job outlook for e-commerce directors in the United States
Are e-commerce director jobs in demand?
E-commerce director job and salary trends over time
E-commerce director jobs over time
E-commerce director job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 1,234 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 1,155 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 1,146 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 1,055 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 982 | 0.00% |
Average e-commerce director salary over time
E-commerce director salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $122,256 | $58.78 | +4.5% |
| 2024 | $117,035 | $56.27 | +1.9% |
| 2023 | $114,798 | $55.19 | +2.6% |
| 2022 | $111,878 | $53.79 | +2.6% |
| 2021 | $109,013 | $52.41 | +3.6% |
E-commerce director jobs by state
Most common states for e-commerce directors
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 196 | 23% |
| 2 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 161 | 23% |
| 3 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 533 | 17% |
| 4 | Arkansas | 3,004,279 | 504 | 17% |
| 5 | Louisiana | 4,684,333 | 494 | 11% |
| 6 | Oklahoma | 3,930,864 | 445 | 11% |
| 7 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 657 | 10% |
| 8 | Alabama | 4,874,747 | 506 | 10% |
| 9 | Mississippi | 2,984,100 | 311 | 10% |
| 10 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 324 | 8% |
| 11 | New York | 19,849,399 | 1,358 | 7% |
| 12 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 820 | 6% |
| 13 | Georgia | 10,429,379 | 608 | 6% |
| 14 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 563 | 6% |
| 15 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 467 | 6% |
| 16 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 174 | 6% |
| 17 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 68 | 6% |
| 18 | Vermont | 623,657 | 39 | 6% |
| 19 | California | 39,536,653 | 2,141 | 5% |
| 20 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 167 | 5% |
Most common cities for e-commerce directors
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bethesda | 1 | 2% | $127,172 |
| 2 | La Mirada | 1 | 2% | $148,969 |
| 3 | Atlanta | 3 | 1% | $100,936 |
| 4 | Fort Lauderdale | 1 | 1% | $87,428 |
| 5 | Grand Rapids | 1 | 1% | $134,272 |
| 6 | Hartford | 1 | 1% | $135,407 |
| 7 | Santa Clara | 1 | 1% | $157,190 |
| 8 | Stamford | 1 | 1% | $134,160 |
| 9 | Baltimore | 1 | 0% | $128,229 |
| 10 | Boston | 1 | 0% | $134,994 |
| 11 | Chicago | 1 | 0% | $110,817 |
| 12 | Detroit | 1 | 0% | $137,403 |
| 13 | Los Angeles | 1 | 0% | $149,925 |
| 14 | Minneapolis | 1 | 0% | $105,436 |
| 15 | Philadelphia | 1 | 0% | $122,200 |
| 16 | Sacramento | 1 | 0% | $155,016 |
| 17 | Tampa | 1 | 0% | $90,281 |
| 18 | Washington | 1 | 0% | $127,897 |
E-Commerce Director job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of e-commerce director experts
City University of Seattle
Siena College
Siena College
University of Scranton
University of Houston - Downtown
Towson University
Auburn University-Montgomery
West Los Angeles College
Berea College
Delta State University
Wayland Baptist University, Anchorage
Western New England University
Menlo College
Kansas State University
Indiana University
Nichols College
Hartwick College
Manhattan College
What will help E-Commerce Directors increase their earning potential?
Rich Johnson: Digital media covers a lot of mediums and requires many skill sets (print, static online, animation, interactive). The print arm is a lesser component although still valuable in the scope of marketing. Smartphones, tablets and gaming have moved a lot of digital into a customer expectation of interactive and customizable content. The present model of career specialization in a certain aspect of this spectrum of skills is changing. The age of the generalist is becoming more of a reality as design tools are becoming more accessible and A.I. is assisting in the more complex tasks. I would say that someone working in digital media will need to focus more on the big picture of design, predicting trends and developing solutions from a point of view with perspective. It will be even more important to understand the needs of a system from the top down and provide solutions that enhance that system. This might be through partnering with marketing and sales to conceptualize solutions, pitching product ideas and other functions related to creative and art direction. And be curious, all of the time. Keep up to date with everything that is happening. Take classes, watch tutorials, read articles and be obsessed with the breakneck rate of change. Digital media is constantly changing and possibilities are always expanding. It can be near impossible to be a master of all of these trajectories, but you can understand them well enough to bring in a specialist when the challenge requires it. This is where I predict that A.I. will be a major paradigm shift. There will be a time when you will ask the system to solve a problem, and you can choose what parts of the process that you want to control. So to boil it down... Develop a well rounded set of skills Further develop specialist level skills where you excel Keep on top of change and keep a thirst for learning Strengthen your connection to problem solving and creative innovation Keep an eye on the future predicting what might be around the bend
What E-Commerce Director skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Ajay Abraham Ph. D.: Everyone is talking about AI these days, so I will start off by joining the bandwagon, but with some nuance. It's important to know how to use artificial intelligence tools in order to be better or more effective at one's job. This doesn't mean that everyone needs to become an AI expert, but that we should be able to harness the power of AI tools to improve the quality and efficiency of our work. This requires being fluent enough with AI tools to understand, discuss, and make decisions involving AI or about AI output (even if we don't actually use those tools in a hands-on manner). This should be done while also being able to bridge the gap for those who are less fluent (perhaps those in more senior-level roles who are even less hands-on with these tools). That apart, as more of the workforce focuses more of their time on technical and similar skills, "softer" skills such as integrity, professionalism, self-awareness, and team-orientation will become even more important as differentiators.
What E-Commerce Director skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jennifer D'Angelo Ph.D.: The ever-changing landscape of consumer trends and technological advancements in how to market to consumers often makes the job exciting and fast-paced. However, with the increased emphasis on results, marketers must be conscious of how to measure and demonstrate the value of their work.
Soyoung Joo
Assistant Professor of MarketingSiena College
Marketing Department
What skills stand out on E-Commerce Director resumes?
Soyoung Joo: Communication and time management skills are valuable skills for marketing managers.
What skills will help E-Commerce Directors earn the most?
Soyoung Joo: Being able to work well with people from diverse backgrounds can be added to the above skills.
Allison Lauenstein
Teaching Instructor of MarketingSiena College
Marketing Department
What hard/technical skills are most important for E-Commerce Directors?
Allison Lauenstein: Project Management and being able to connect the dots around the data and insights are critical. You have to analyze a situation and uncover insights from the customer, the competitors, and the industry.
What skills will help E-Commerce Directors earn the most?
Allison Lauenstein: Leadership and collaboration will go a long way. The best ideas can come from anywhere, and it's not always about who has the best idea but who can execute the idea the best. Good marketers must understand that if you cannot successfully execute or effectively communicate a great idea, it may not be so great.
What soft skills should all E-Commerce Directors possess?
Allison Lauenstein: Listening and asking questions are some of the most important skills. As Marketers, you not only have to listen to what people say, but you have to try to understand what they are not saying. How do their actions differ from what they are saying?
Abhijit Roy
Professor of MarketingUniversity of Scranton
School of Management
What soft skills should all E-Commerce Directors possess?
Abhijit Roy: These are very important, yet harder to quantify skills, not only for marketing professionals but for business graduates in general. They include the ability to make sound decisions under pressure, having a high emotional intelligence quotient (EQ) as embodied by having empathy towards coworkers and subordinates, delegating appropriately, mentoring, communicating, time management, maintaining positivity despite setbacks and adapting to unforeseen challenges, being flexible, being persuasive and assertive at appropriate moments, yet being collaborative, seeking feedback, and the ability to negotiate and resolve conflicts when needed, amongst others.
Soft skills are typically more instrumental in enabling candidates to fit into an organization's culture and be strong candidates for promotion. Most marketing jobs involve candidates representing their brand initiatives and building strong client relationships, so interpersonal, and other soft skills are often valued more than hard skills. The strongest case for having excellent soft skills is that they are more easily transferable across various jobs and industries.
Dr. Richard Conde Ph.D.
Assistant ProfessorUniversity of Houston - Downtown
Marilyn Davies College of Business
How have salaries changed over time for E-Commerce Directors?
Dr. Richard Conde Ph.D.: - There is a small trend in sales to minimize variable comp and increase salaries. There are a few (15 or so) Silicon Valley companies limiting commissions and focusing more on salaries
- You see a correlation between higher salaries and more complex sales processes. I see that trend continuing as more transactional sales will be automated
- Increase in pay for inside sales agents as more and more sales are being handled by inside sales agents (thanks to tech and change in buying behaviors)
What soft skills should all E-Commerce Directors possess?
Dr. Richard Conde Ph.D.: The need for soft skills are consistent through time. With our societal focus on social media, texting, emojis, etc. It appears to me companies are looking for the following:
- Active listening skills
- Willingness to be self-reflective and accept feedback
- Accept different perspectives. The collision of ideas creates knowledge
- Communicate to the listener (at their level). Flex communicators
- Cultural intelligence. Demographics changes will require better understanding of team member's, boss', customer's, etc. cultural context
Erin Steffes Ph.D.
Department Chair and ProfessorTowson University
Marketing Department
What hard/technical skills are most important for E-Commerce Directors?
Erin Steffes Ph.D.: As a science and an art, marketing utilizes both soft skills and technical skills on a daily basis. While some technologies are industry-specific, having an understanding and basic mastery of data analysis, statistics, data visualization, digital marketing, marketing research, and customer relationship management will position a candidate well.
What skills will help E-Commerce Directors earn the most?
Erin Steffes Ph.D.: At the end of the day, firms want to hire candidates that will contribute value over the long term and are adaptable to change. Demonstrating that you have the skills to do the job at hand while signaling that you are willing to contribute to the team is critical in landing that first job. One of the most important lessons for a job candidate or new hire is to eliminate the notion that something "is not my job." Your new career will give you many opportunities to create value for your customers, your colleagues, or the firm as a whole, many of which may lie beyond your immediate scope of responsibility.
What will help E-Commerce Directors increase their earning potential?
Jeff Bates: The same thing will help people in any field continue to increase their earning potential as in the past. If an employee can find a way to differentiate themselves in a positive manner and make themselves valuable or even invaluable to their company, they should see increased earnings potential. Learning a foreign language, computer skills such as Excel, good math skills, and the ability to communicate will prove to be extremely important in advancing one's career.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on E-Commerce Directors?
Anthony Cuomo: We have changed the ways in which we communicate with each other. Now, more than ever, we know that technology is pervasive and has revolutionized the way we communicate personally and professionally. Virtual interviews, online group meetings and presentations are the new norm. Job seekers who are able to communicate effectively online will have an advantage in our new context. I don't think Zoom meetings or Skype are going away any time soon. So, practicing how to sustain eye contact with a camera, being personable and communicating enthusiasm virtually will set you apart from other applicants.
What's a good job out of college for E-Commerce Directors?
Anthony Cuomo: A job that you are passionate about and helps you begin your journey. Pursue jobs that spark your interest and also provide opportunities to learn, grow and seek out mentorship. Think long term and how you a strengthening your professional foundation while also providing opportunities to support yourself and your lifestyle.
J. Ian Norris Ph.D.
Professor of Marketing and Fellow, American Council on EducationBerea College
Economics and Business Department
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for E-Commerce Directors?
J. Ian Norris Ph.D.: Digital marketing skills are essential for any area of marketing. Luckily there are many online certifications available for this purpose. On the research side, Google Analytics offers a certification. It will also be valuable to know the analytics platforms on social media sites such as facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Conversely, all of these sites also offer training on digital advertising and promotion, such as Google AdWords. Any coursework in digital marketing that provides instruction in Search Engine Marketing (SEM) will also be highly valuable. Finally, digital video and editing skills are also quite valuable, as all kinds of companies and organizations are using the short video format for storytelling and brand advertising.
What will help E-Commerce Directors increase their earning potential?
J. Ian Norris Ph.D.: No matter what area of marketing you are working in--in fact, no matter what job you are working in at all, statistical literacy is essential. There is so much data out there that data literacy will confer significant competitive advantage to those who can leverage it. This doesn't mean everyone has to be able to do regression modeling, but being able to interpret correlational patterns and draw actionable meaning from it will be a foundational skill. A big bonus would be some basic coding skills. Finally, it is worth mentioning that while most social media marketing still happens on Facebook, it will be essential to know platforms such as Instagram and TikTok for any products or services targeted to younger consumers.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the E-Commerce Director job market given the pandemic?
Lisa Cooley: Obviously, we are seeing a lot more flexibility in terms of virtual work. A lot of the jobs I have seen allow for their employees to work remotely (at least a portion of the time).
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for E-Commerce Directors?
Dr. Mary Rydesky: What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact on your job prospects? Emphases on project management and strategic thinking have been joined by certifications in soft skills that support diversity and cultural awareness. Graduates do need technical skills, but with the shift to remote teams and work from home environments pushed the curve. Now, grads need experience in applying their tech skills from a distance.
What will help E-Commerce Directors increase their earning potential?
Harlan Spotts Ph.D.: In marketing, developing digital capabilities is extremely important. Marketing was on the forefront of the digital transition in business. With the amount of commerce that has shifted to the web marketers have to be comfortable with living in the digital space. This will demand new and different strategies. Marketers have always needed to be effective communicators, but now it is not just being a great closer. Marketers need to be effective communicators in writing (text, email, etc.) and verbal (person to person live, as well as person to person online)
Students need to start in college developing skills to be successful. It was interesting, we, in the College of Business, were talking about developing student competency in remote work before the pandemic hit last year. The pandemic accelerated our work, and we are in the process now of approving a certificate in remote work that any undergraduate business student can earn. It is designed to develop those competencies that will be critical for success in the "new normal."
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the E-Commerce Director job market given the pandemic?
Stephanie Dellande: The pandemic gave rise to varied ways of consumption. Many services offered by providers, e.g., curbside pick-up, since the pandemic will continue. E-learning and e-commerce will likely remain par for the course for some time to come. The presence of digital tools (Zoom, Webinar) will allow employers and employees to stay in touch. Remote work will become a norm for companies attempting to cut operational expenses and costs associate with office space. Other trends include a construction boom as government invest in infrastructure. In addition, sexy or not, the green economy is inevitable. This will offer firms an opportunity to capitalize on a demand for renewable energy technology. Companies that are responsive to providing their products to their target market(s) in new ways will likely do well. Also, potential employees will have to update their skill set to secure a position and be successful in their newfound field of work.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the E-Commerce Director job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Esther Swilley: I think that geographic location is going to change. Because many jobs that were not thought of as home-based really are. Companies are finding that the large office buildings that are costing them may not be needed. Employees now want to live where they want, which may not be near the company.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the E-Commerce Director job market given the pandemic?
Davide , Ph.D. Bolchini Ph.D.: In the prospering User Experience (UX) economy, I see more and more "remote" UX internships offered to our students and "remote" UX full-time job opportunities offered to our graduates. Both graduates and employers are more comfortable establishing remote working collaborations, which are becoming now the norm more than before, due to the disruption in the traditional office-bound workspace that COVID brought to the marketplace.
Jean Beaupré
Associate Professor of Communication and Marketing, Communication B.A. Program ChairNichols College
Department of Communication
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for E-Commerce Directors to find work opportunities?
Jean Beaupré: Given the current status of remote work, we can expect that hiring agents may cast a wider net when recruiting in the coming years. As a result, new graduates should not limit themselves to their immediate geographic area. Instead, they would be well served to research industries that are predicted to grow, such as healthcare and technology. Flexibility and openness are essential in job hunting as well; often, opportunities can be found in positions, companies, or fields that new graduates overlook, based on preconceived notions.
Pauline Stamp Ph.D.
Associate ProfessorHartwick College
Department of Business Administration and Accounting
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for E-Commerce Directors to find work opportunities?
Pauline Stamp Ph.D.: Yes. Online. "Online" is now a place.
How do you envision technology impacting E-Commerce Directors in the next 5 years?
Pauline Stamp Ph.D.: The student/graduate that can seamlessly transition from F2F to C2C to written communication and skillfully be productive, regardless of the modality, will be in very high demand. Students/graduates need to be constantly learning new software and technology, and learning how to use these tools, skillfully, in every situation. Communication has always been the #1 driver of success, that will never change - the way it is conducted will always change.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on E-Commerce Directors?
Arshia Anwer Ph.D.: The coronavirus had a short, negative impact on the public relations industry as a whole, resulting in layoffs in the field and reduced spending on promotional activities by large corporations. However, during the end of summer and now in early fall, markets are looking more optimistic, and the economy is bouncing back, and with it, opportunities in the public relations field are looking brighter. Some of our alumni who lost their jobs in March or April have now found similar positions or have resumed the positions they were in before the pandemic. Similarly, some of the Manhattan College Communication Department's most recent graduates have already found positions in the public relations field.