From streaming services like Paramount+ to work acceleration tools like Lucid and fashion rental boxes like Nuuly, the subscription industry has taken the world by storm. 

Over the last decade, the global subscription economy has grown by 435% — with no signs of slowing down. According to The State of Subscriptions report, there’s a 15.4% increase in new subscribers in year-over-year, with 20% reactivations. 

If you’re considering growing your career in this dynamic space, now is the perfect time to explore your options. 

Subscription businesses require a unique combination of expertise across many areas. Whether you’re a tech-savvy engineer or a creative marketer, there’s a place for you here. 

Exploring careers in the subscription industry 

The subscription industry offers a broad range of career paths across various functions such as marketing, product management, sales, operations, and more. Below are some key roles that could launch or elevate your subscription-specific career, along with any necessary skills or education.

Engineering and technology

Innovation is the foundation of every successful business. Engineers and tech professionals play a key role in creating efficient, reliable, and user-friendly platforms that power subscriptions.

Roles:

  • Software engineer: Build and maintain scalable subscription platforms by developing features such as billing systems, recommendation algorithms, and secure user accounts

  • Data scientist: Analyze user behavior to predict trends and optimize offerings — leverage data insights to improve retention, reduce churn, and drive growth effectively

  • DevOps engineer: Ensure smooth deployment of updates and resolve configuration issues to maintain system efficiency and minimize downtime

  • Cybersecurity specialists: Safeguard customer data while protecting payment platforms, and ensure systems are consistently monitored for security breaches and compliance with industry standards

Skills and education: A degree in computer science or engineering is often required, but bootcamp credentials can also help candidates land entry-level positions. Additionally, proficiency in programming languages (Python, JavaScript) and familiarity with machine learning models are in high demand. 

Sales department

By deeply understanding customer needs and delivering tailored solutions, the sales department ensures sustainable growth and long-term success for the organization. 

Roles: 

  • Sales development representative: Build strong relationships with potential clients to understand their needs while providing solutions to successfully close deals.

  • Account executive: Manage key customer accounts to ensure satisfaction and build long-term partnerships while identifying upselling and cross-selling opportunities to drive additional revenue.

  • Sales engineer: Work closely with the sales team to provide technical expertise, craft tailored solutions, and support deals 

Skills and education: A bachelor’s degree in marketing, business, or a related field is a good start — but not necessarily required. Strong communication, negotiation skills, and tech-savviness are key to thriving in these roles. 

Customer support and success

Customer satisfaction is everything in the subscription business. Professionals in these roles ensure customers feel supported and continue subscribing.

Roles: 

  • Customer support specialist: Resolve inquiries related to subscriptions, payments, or platform features while providing quick and helpful responses across various communication channels

  • Customer success manager: Build long-term relationships with customers to prevent churn by offering personalized solutions that maximize the value they get from their subscription

  • Technical support specialist: Help users troubleshoot technical issues with their accounts by providing step-by-step guidance to resolve problems efficiently

Skills and education: Flexibility and excellent people skills are a must. Companies also value proficiency in CRM platforms like Salesforce or Zendesk.

Product and user experience

At the heart of a subscription company is its product. These roles focus on fine-tuning the offering and ensuring customers love what they subscribe to.

Roles: 

  • Product manager: Define the roadmap for new features based on customer needs and collaborate across teams to ensure timely product releases

  • UX/UI designer: Design intuitive user interfaces that enhance customer engagement — simplify complex processes, like account creation or cancellation, for seamless experiences

  • Web specialist: Ensure the website operates smoothly and efficiently across devices while optimizing site performance to improve load times, conversions, and overall user experience

Skills and education: A blend of creativity and technical expertise is essential. Certifications in UX/UI design or tools like Adobe XD can help break into these roles. 

Marketing and growth

Building and retaining a loyal subscriber base relies on strategic marketing efforts. These roles ensure the brand resonates with audiences and grows its reach.

Roles: 

  • Product marketing: Bridge the gap between product development and market adoption by understanding the target audience, defining value propositions, and positioning products effectively

  • Demand generation: Develop and execute data-driven campaigns, email marketing, webinars, and targeted ads to generate and nurture leads — moving them through the sales funnel

  • Content creation: Create engaging content that tells the brand’s story and builds trust. Focus on blogs, videos, and social media posts that resonate with potential subscribers

Skills and education: A degree in communications, advertising, or journalism is common, along with expertise in SEO, social media tools, and email marketing platforms. Building a quality portfolio of work is key to landing roles.

Financial and accounting

Managing the recurring revenue that comes with the subscription model requires precision and expertise. These roles ensure every dollar is accounted for.

Roles: 

  • Financial analyst: Forecast revenue trends and develop financial strategies while monitoring key metrics such as customer lifetime value (LTV) and acquisition costs (CAC)

  • Billing specialist: Oversee automated billing processes for subscriptions and handle the resolution of disputes or discrepancies in payment systems

  • Accountant: Keep transparent financial records and adhere to revenue recognition standards to ensure regulatory compliance

Skills and education: CPA contributions are essential here. Financial professionals who understand the subscription model and revenue recognition processes are particularly valuable. 

Supply chain management 

For subscriptions offering physical products, frictionless supply chain management is key to satisfaction.

Roles: 

  • Logistics manager: Oversee the efficient delivery of goods while minimizing delivery times and optimizing inventory management

  • Procurement specialist: Collaborate with vendors to source high-quality products while negotiating contracts that ensure cost-effectiveness and maintain a reliable supply chain

  • Quality control manager: Ensure that the products sent to customers meet your brand’s standards, and address feedback to improve future shipments

Skills and education: A degree in supply chain management or logistics is beneficial, as are certifications such as Lean Six Sigma.

Where to find jobs in the subscription industry 

Breaking into the subscription industry starts with knowing where to look for opportunities. These platforms are great starting points for job seekers:

  • LinkedIn: Take advantage of LinkedIn's advanced filters to find relevant roles by searching for terms like "subscription jobs" or "subscription sales jobs." This helps narrow down your search to specific opportunities.

  • Indeed and Glassdoor: Use targeted keywords like "subscription manager job description" or "subscription box careers" to uncover niche roles that align with your interests and expertise in subscription services

  • Remote job boards: Websites like We Work Remotely and FlexJobs specialize in remote-only roles, making it easier to find flexible job options

  • Networking: Connect with recruiters, join subscription-related communities, and engage in industry events to expand your contacts

  • Company career pages: Exploring these pages can uncover opportunities that aren't always listed on job boards. For instance, Recurly is constantly adding new open roles for both technical and non-technical positions. 

Proactivity and the right mix of online resources, networking, and direct engagement with companies and recruiters, you can uncover exciting opportunities. Remember, persistence and strategy are key — stay focused, build meaningful connections, and position yourself for success.

💡Pro tip: Subscribe to Recurly’s LinkedIn newsletter, where each week share open roles in high-growth subscription brands. 

Tips for breaking into the subscription industry 

Breaking into the subscription industry can be both exciting and challenging, as it’s a fast-evolving space with endless opportunities. But don’t worry, here are some tips to kickstart your journey and secure a role in the subscription industry:

  • Upskill where necessary: Platforms like Coursera and Udemy offer affordable online courses that focus on data analytics, customer success, lifecycle marketing, or any other skill that the job of your dreams requires

  • Familiarize yourself with key tools: Many subscription-based businesses rely on tools such as Salesforce, HubSpot, Zendesk, Semrush, or more — depending on the role you’re looking for. Familiarizing yourself with these platforms can give you a competitive edge. 

  • Highlight relevant experience: On your resume, emphasize previous roles that involved any experience with recurring revenue models. If you don’t have direct experience yet, highlight transferable skills, such as problem-solving and adaptability. 

  • Stay updated on trends: Follow industry blogs, subscribe to newsletters, and read thought leadership articles related to the subscription economy. Staying informed highlights your commitment to this industry during interviews. 

By showcasing your skills and staying informed about top trends, you can position yourself as a valuable candidate in the subscription economy. With the right preparation and mindset, you’ll be ready to make a strong impression.

Why the subscription industry is a thriving career choice

The subscription industry is a turning point in how businesses deliver value to customers. Here’s why working in this space is exciting:

  • Constant innovation: With AI, machine learning, and predictive analytics at play, you’ll always work on the cutting edge of technology

  • Cross-industry impact: From tech to beauty, the subscription model applies to various sectors, allowing you to align your career with your interests

  • Consumer connection: Brands build direct and ongoing relationships with subscribers, offering job roles where you can make a tangible impact

Whether your passion lies in sales or accounting, there’s never been a better time to get involved in the subscription economy. 

Looking for your next opportunity at Recurly? Check out our careers page.