Business travel consultant

What does a business travel consultant do? – Tasks and work environment

A business travel consultant works with planning, booking, and managing business trips for companies and organizations. Tasks include contacting clients, negotiating with suppliers such as airlines and hotels, and resolving any issues that may arise before or during the trip. The consultant also needs to stay updated on travel policies, visa regulations, and safety considerations. The work is usually office-based, often at travel agencies or larger companies' internal travel departments, and involves a fast pace with demands for accuracy and service orientation.

Salary development over time

The salary for business travel consultants has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,800 SEK per month, which increased to 32 500 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has reached 34 100 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 7.2% over three years. This positive trend reflects an increased demand for qualified consultants in business travel, as well as the profession becoming more complex due to digitalization and changing travel patterns. Employers have also needed to offer more competitive salaries to attract and retain experienced consultants, especially as more companies prioritize cost-effective and secure business travel planning.

Business travel consultant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 34 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 24,900 SEK/month (male, public sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 39,100 SEK/month (male, public sector, post-secondary education < 3 years)
• Highest salary (female): 37,100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (female): 30,800 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 205 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 101% of what men do (women: 34 200 SEK, men: 34 000 SEK)

Education and qualifications

To work as a business travel consultant, a high school diploma is usually required, often with a focus on tourism, economics, or administration. Post-secondary education in the travel industry or equivalent is advantageous and can improve employment and salary prospects. Practical experience, good language skills, and digital competence are important qualifications, and many employers also value certifications from industry organizations.

• High school education: For example, tourism or economics programs (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: YH/KY training in the travel industry (1–2 years)
• Certifications: Courses from IATA or similar industry organizations
• Language skills: English and preferably additional languages
• Practical experience: Meritorious through internships or trainee positions

Common benefits and compensations

Business travel consultants are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, subsidized travel, pension contributions, and sometimes performance-based bonuses. Opportunities for remote work and flexible hours are available in some companies, especially larger organizations with international operations.

Competition and challenges

The competition for roles as a business travel consultant is significant, especially in metropolitan areas where many large companies operate. Digitalization and automation of booking processes have changed the profession, requiring adaptability and continuous skills development. Challenges also include managing rapid changes in the travel industry, such as new regulations or unforeseen events affecting travel globally. The ability to deliver high-quality service under pressure and navigate various systems and suppliers is crucial.

Tips for aspiring business travel consultants

To succeed as a business travel consultant, it is beneficial to be communicative and attentive, as much of the work involves understanding and meeting customer needs. Good organizational skills are essential, especially when planning multiple trips simultaneously under time pressure. Flexibility and problem-solving skills are helpful in unforeseen situations, such as canceled flights or changed travel restrictions. A genuine interest in travel and cultures makes it easier to stay updated on industry developments. Digital competence is also critical, as booking systems and digital tools are central to daily tasks. Accuracy and responsibility are other important qualities, since mistakes can have significant consequences for clients and companies. Finally, continuous education and networking within the industry are advantageous to strengthen your position in the job market.

Key facts about a business travel consultant

• Educational level: High school or post-secondary education in tourism or economics
• Work environment: Office-based, often high-paced with digital tools
• Typical work form: Full-time, sometimes shift work or on-call at larger companies
• Demand: 550 job openings within the profession according to current database
• Special skills: System familiarity and good language skills

Career paths and future outlook

After 3–5 years as a business travel consultant, there are opportunities to advance to senior roles such as team leader, coach, or specialist in travel policies and procurement. Some choose to move into purchasing roles or leadership positions within travel agencies and larger organizations' travel departments. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that demand for qualified business travel consultants will remain stable, with continued need for expertise in complex travel arrangements and advising. Digitalization and automation are expected to further change work tasks, but personal service and problem-solving will continue to be central to the profession.

Frequently asked questions about a business travel consultant

• What is the average salary of a business travel consultant?
  - The average salary is 34 100 SEK per month.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 34 200 SEK while men earn 34 000 SEK, meaning women earn 101% of men's salaries.
• What is the highest salary for a business travel consultant?
  - The highest salary is 39,100 SEK per month and belongs to a man in the public sector with post-secondary education shorter than three years.
• What education is recommended to become a business travel consultant?
  - High school education in tourism or economics, as well as post-secondary training in the travel industry, are advantageous.
• What are the future prospects for business travel consultants?
  - Demand is stable with 550 job openings and good opportunities for career development.
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Customer service skills, flexibility, good organizational ability, and digital competence are key qualities.
• How much does a business travel consultant earn per hour?
  - The average hourly wage is 205 SEK.