A high level of education pays off for managing directors in particular: While managing directors with a doctorate earn an average of 257,000 euros per year, their colleagues with a university degree at the same level only receive 222,000 euros. Those with a degree from a university of applied sciences only earn around 190,000 euros a year. "A sound education increases the chance of moving up the company hierarchy and filling positions with a higher salary," says Julia Zmítko. However, different educational qualifications are not the only reason for the differences in remuneration: "In addition to additional qualifications such as internships, experience abroad or a doctorate, the size of the company is a key factor influencing the level of remuneration," says Zmítko. In contrast, whether the IT company offers software, hardware or infrastructure services is less relevant for the salary level.