Business analyst

What does a Business analyst do? – Tasks and work environment

A Business analyst works on analyzing and improving business processes, often at the intersection of IT and business development. The tasks revolve around collecting and interpreting data, identifying areas for improvement, and proposing solutions that support the organization's goals. This involves close contact with various departments and stakeholders, with requirements gathering, documentation, and process mapping being central elements. The work is often project-based, and the work environment is typically office-based, with digital meetings and collaboration in cross-functional teams.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Business analyst has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 52,600 SEK per month, which increased to 54 700 SEK in 2023 and continued up to 56 600 SEK in 2024. This development represents a total increase of about 7.6% during the period, slightly above inflation, reflecting the increased demand for analytical skills in both private and public sectors. Drivers behind the salary increase include digitalization, increased requirements for data-driven decision-making, and growing complexity in business processes. Despite the positive trend, salary growth has plateaued somewhat as the market matures and more educated professionals enter the role.

Business analyst salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 56 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 40,500 SEK/month (female, government sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 67,000 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage: 340 SEK
• Women: 53 200 SEK/month
• Men: 61 900 SEK/month
• Women earn: 86% of what men do
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a Business analyst, a post-secondary education in economics, IT, systems science, or similar fields is usually required. A combination of analytical ability, business understanding, and technical skills is essential. Many employers also value certifications and experience in project work.

• Formal education: Bachelor's degree in economics, IT, or systems science (3 years)
• Certifications: Examples include CBAP (Certified Business Analysis Professional)
• Courses: Requirements management, process mapping, data-driven analysis
• Internship/Trainee: Meritorious in economics or IT operations
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of Excel, database management, and business analysis
• Self-study/online: Continuing education via MOOC platforms and e-learning is common

Common benefits and compensations

Business analysts are often offered competitive benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible hours, and remote work. Training grants, bonus programs, and extra vacation days are also common, especially within larger companies and international organizations.

Competition and challenges

The competition for Business analyst positions is considered balanced, with moderate opportunities according to the Employment Service's forecasts for the controller profession. Challenges in the role primarily involve staying updated on new digital tools, changing processes, and increasing demands for data-driven analysis. The ability to quickly understand new business areas and grasp complex relationships is crucial. The role's broad scope means employers often seek candidates with both technical and business skills, which can place high demands on education and experience.

Tips for aspiring Business analysts

To succeed as a Business analyst, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with curiosity and communication abilities. Being solution-oriented facilitates identifying improvement areas and proposing effective measures. Precision is important when collecting and interpreting data, while collaboration skills and responsiveness help understand stakeholder needs. Continuously developing technical knowledge and maintaining a structured work approach provide good conditions for thriving and advancing in the role. Participating in projects, networking within the industry, and staying updated on new tools and methods are recommended. Initiative and a proactive attitude are highly valued by employers in this field.

Key facts about Business analyst

• Education level: Bachelor's degree in economics, IT, or systems science (3 years)
• Work environment: Office-based with remote work options
• Demand: Moderate opportunities nationwide
• Occupational group: Controller
• Job openings: 758 within the occupational group

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Business analyst, there are good opportunities to advance to more specialized roles such as senior Business analyst, project manager, or product owner. Some choose to deepen their expertise in data analysis or business development, while others move into management roles within finance or IT. The Employment Service's forecast indicates moderate job opportunities for the controller group, with demand expected to remain stable over the next five years. Continued technological development and increased requirements for data-driven management suggest that the demand for skills will remain strong, especially for those investing in ongoing skill development and expanding their experience with new tools and methods.

Frequently asked questions about Business analyst

• What does a Business analyst earn?
  - A Business analyst has an average monthly salary of 56 600 SEK.
• What are the salary differences between men and women?
  - Men earn an average of 61 900 SEK and women 53 200 SEK, which means women earn approximately 86% of what men do in the profession.
• What education is required to become a Business analyst?
  - Typically, a bachelor's degree in economics, IT, or systems science along with additional courses or certifications in analysis and requirements management are required.
• What are the job responsibilities of a Business analyst?
  - The tasks include analyzing business processes, collecting and interpreting data, documenting requirements, and proposing improvements and solutions.
• What are the future prospects for Business analysts?
  - According to the Employment Service's forecast for the controller profession, opportunities are moderate, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - No detailed information about regional salary differences is available for this profession.
• What benefits are common for Business analysts?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible hours, remote work, and training grants.