What's the next logical career choice for a senior analyst?

Seriously, with a resume like that I would think the next step up would be a department head or other executive position. Maybe some extra management coursework would look good (or play up what coursework and experience you already have)? Just a though.

what do you *want* to be your next step in your career? what area do you want to focus in? what industry vertical? when you figure this out - network, network, network for the next step in your career. Find out what opportunities are out there, and network to let your reputation work for you in your next career step.

I have a dirth of experience as a program manager and as an analyst Um, was that supposed to be a 'wealth'? (Not snarking, just unclear.)

I have a dirth of experience as a program manager and as an analyst with Cingular and Microsoft. What is http://dictionary.reference.com/search?q=dirth? You may have meant to use the word http://dictionary.reference.com/search?q=dearth, but somehow I think you mean the opposite. I'm not snarking, either, but trying to be helpful.

I'm in a very similar situation - BA for the last 8 years (give or take a few months) and feel like I'm stuck in a groove. Do you want to go into management? I know that I don't (they couldn't pay me enough to make me do it!), but you may enjoy it. You say you've been a program manager - so how about looking into official project management? Could your current position allow you to take on some small projects in order to build experience? Or if you're confident enough, just jump straight in - it seems pretty well paid on a freelance basis!

Sorry, I meant to put in dearth. Was up too late with a dog showcasing a sensitive stomach and a bad piece of chicken. :) To answer a previous question, I've always liked the academic field (mostly for the challenge) for research and analysis. I have considered executive positions, but I haven't found anything beyond financial directors on indeed.com and other related sites.

DCT, though you meant to put in "dearth", I don't think the word means what you think it means. In fact, I think it means the opposite. "Dearth" means "lack of". I don't think you're trying to say that you have a lack of experience as an analyst with Cingular and Microsoft. Or are you?

Firstly, thank you very much for your responses. My significant other showed me the post that he made for me. I am the one with experience (do not have a dearth of experience ;) and a couple of Masters Degrees, could be going in for a third one in Human Factors. His intentions for this post were good and I am happy that he did wants to help me get out of an unsatisfactory professional environment. He got a few facts incorrect. I have an MBA in Information Systems an MSW with specialization in Family and Child Welfare Pursuing studies in Human Factors (User Centered Design and Human Computer Interaction) I have over 5 years of experience (soon to have my 6 yr. anniversary), he got the companies correct. I am keen to work in an environment that fosters logical thinking, intelligent decision making and innovative initiatives. I love to teach and learn and I am good at organization and human behavior. As a program manager I do manage projects but they give me very limited satisfaction. I do not like the political behavior warranted in such positions. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks again, for taking the time.