Account manager

What does an Account Manager do? – Tasks and Work Environment

An Account Manager is responsible for creating, developing, and maintaining business relationships with the company's clients. The role often involves acting as the link between the company and the customer, including identifying customer needs, proposing solutions, and ensuring high customer satisfaction. Tasks range from preparing and presenting quotes, negotiating contracts, and following up on sales targets to working on long-term client development. The work environment is typically office-based, but travel to clients and participation in trade shows or industry events are common, especially in the B2B sector. The role requires good communication skills, commercial awareness, and the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.

Salary development over time

The profession of Account Manager has experienced clear salary increases over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,700 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 49 600 SEK, representing a rise of approximately 6.2%. For 2024, the average salary continues to grow and now stands at 51 300 SEK, a further increase of about 3.4% from the previous year. The salary development reflects a continued strong demand for skilled salespeople within the corporate market, where competition for talented Account Managers has led employers to offer higher salaries to attract and retain talent. This trend is also influenced by increased complexity in sales processes and higher requirements for education and experience.

Account Manager Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 51 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,200 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 61,500 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 309 SEK
• Men (average): 53 000 SEK/month
• Women (average): 47 200 SEK/month
• Women’s salary as % of men’s: 89%

Education and Qualifications

To work as an Account Manager, a post-secondary education in economics, marketing, or sales is often required, although some employers prioritize documented sales experience and personal qualities over formal degrees. Many combine university studies with courses and certifications in sales and business development. Practical experience, such as through trainee programs or internships, is highly valued. Some companies offer internal training programs to strengthen sales techniques and product knowledge.

• Post-secondary education: Economics, marketing, or sales (2–3 years)
• Certifications: Sales training and business development courses
• Internships/Traineeships: Common within larger companies
• Prerequisites: High school diploma and preferably work experience
• Online courses: Opportunities for supplementary studies in sales

Common Benefits and Compensation

Account Managers are often offered performance-based bonuses and commissions in addition to their base salary, which can significantly increase total earnings when sales targets are met. Company cars, wellness allowances, pension contributions, and opportunities for professional development are other common benefits. Many employers also offer flexible working hours and remote work options to some extent.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for roles as an Account Manager is generally high, especially in attractive industries and regions. The role requires the ability to handle pressured sales targets and adapt quickly to market changes. Staying updated on products, services, and industry trends is a key challenge. Building long-term customer relationships while constantly seeking new business opportunities demands initiative, perseverance, and business acumen. Additionally, Account Managers are often expected to have good digital skills and be able to use modern CRM systems and analytical tools.

Tips for Aspiring Account Managers

To succeed as an Account Manager, it is important to be goal-oriented and enjoy working towards clear results. A strong drive and the ability to take initiative are crucial, especially when it comes to creating new business contacts and developing existing relationships. Good communication skills help build trust and understand customer needs, which is central to the role. Flexibility and the ability to adapt quickly to changing conditions are also important qualities, as is working in a structured manner and managing multiple processes simultaneously. Lastly, an interest in business and a willingness to continuously learn new things are beneficial to stay relevant in a dynamic job market.

Key Facts about Account Manager

• Educational level: Post-secondary education (2–3 years) recommended
• Work environment: Office-based with travel components
• Work form: Usually full-time, sometimes flexible hours
• Demand: 550 job openings nationally (2024)
• Gender distribution: Men earn on average 12% more than women

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years in the role of Account Manager, there are often opportunities to advance to senior sales roles, sales manager, or business developer. It is also common to move into key account management positions, focusing on strategic key clients. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast for business salespeople, demand is expected to be unchanged over the next five years, with a balanced recruitment situation. Those gaining experience and building networks may also move into consulting or start their own business within sales.

Frequently Asked Questions about Account Manager

• What does an Account Manager earn?
  - An Account Manager has an average salary of 51 300 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• What are the gender differences in Account Manager salaries?
  - Men earn on average 53 000 SEK and women 47 200 SEK, which means women earn 89% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become an Account Manager?
  - Recommended education is at least two to three years of post-secondary studies in economics, marketing, or sales, but experience is also highly valued.
• What are the future prospects for Account Managers?
  - Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with approximately 550 job openings nationwide.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for an Account Manager?
  - The highest salary is 61,500 SEK (male, private sector, post-secondary education), and the lowest is 38,200 SEK (female, government sector, unspecified education).
• What benefits are common for Account Managers?
  - Bonuses, commissions, company cars, wellness allowances, and opportunities for professional development are typical benefits.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Salary levels can vary depending on region and sector, but exact figures are not always publicly available.