The ability to use a computer is important. The closest is general managers and top executives. There were over 3.3 million people in this category in 1998. However, according to the Vancouver chapter of the Strategic Leadership Forum, the organization has 4,000 members across North America. Membership is voluntary and is drawn from both Canada and the U.S. Yuan is not aware of any professional associations for strategic planners.
Planners are more likely to belong to organizations specific to their industry.
The OOH reports that competition for management jobs will be strong, due to a large number of qualified candidates and a low turnover. The field is expected to grow as fast as average through 2008. In financial services, most strategic planning is done in the area of marketing and advertising. There is a wide variation in salaries among industries. Education Strategic planners have a broad range of educational backgrounds.