What does an editor-in-chief without managerial hierarchy do – tasks and work environment
An editor-in-chief without managerial hierarchy is responsible for leading and coordinating editorial work at a newspaper, web platform, or other media channel, but without the formal personnel responsibilities often associated with management roles. The focus is on ensuring quality, relevance, and timeliness of published content. Tasks include planning content, editing texts, developing editorial guidelines, and sometimes contributing with own articles or reports. The role requires close collaboration with journalists, writers, photographers, and external partners, where leadership is based more on inspiration and coordination than formal authority. The work environment is often dynamic and fast-paced, with demands for good communication and the ability to quickly handle changes in news flow.
Salary development over time
The salary for an editor-in-chief without managerial hierarchy has shown a moderate but steady increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month, which decreased slightly to 42 500 SEK in 2023. However, in 2024, the trend turned upward, and the average salary increased to 44 800 SEK, corresponding to an increase of approximately 5.4% from the previous year. This rise can partly be explained by increased demand for digital competence and editorial leadership in line with the digitalization of the media landscape. Gender differences are small, with women earning 98% of men's salaries. Salary levels are also influenced by education and sector, where public sector and longer education often result in higher pay. Overall, there is a trend toward employers valuing experience and broad competence in both digital publishing and traditional journalism.
Editor-in-chief without managerial hierarchy salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 44 800 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 43,900 SEK/month
- Highest salary: 51,000 SEK/month (male, public sector, post-secondary education ≥3 years)
- Highest salary for women: 48,500 SEK/month
- Hourly wage (average): 269 SEK
- Women/men: Women earn 44 400 SEK, men 45 200 SEK (women 98% of men's salary)
- Regional differences: Data on variations is unavailable
Education and qualifications
To work as an editor-in-chief without managerial hierarchy, a university-level journalism education, combined with several years of editorial experience, is usually required. Strong language skills, good stylistic ability, and experience with digital publishing systems are central qualifications. Many employers also seek specialized knowledge in areas such as digital journalism, social media, or content strategy.
- Journalism education: University or college degree, 3 years or more
- Special courses: For example, digital publishing, editorial leadership
- Work experience: Several years of documented experience in an editorial environment
- Prerequisites: Good language skills and media production experience
- Meritorious: Internships, trainee programs, or experience in project management
Working as an editor-in-chief without managerial hierarchy often involves significant influence over content and journalistic direction, but without the formal personnel responsibilities that can take up a lot of time. It offers the opportunity to focus on creative and strategic work, and is especially suitable for those passionate about journalism's core rather than administrative tasks.
Common benefits and compensation
Common benefits for editors-in-chief without managerial hierarchy often include wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and remote work options. Other benefits may include professional development, subsidized lunches, and occupational pension. In some cases, extra vacation days and access to modern technical equipment are also offered.
Competition and challenges
The competition for roles as an editor-in-chief without managerial hierarchy is often intense, especially within larger media houses and digital platforms where the pace of change is high. Challenges include staying updated on new publishing tools, changing reader habits, and rapidly shifting news cycles. The role also requires strong stress management, deadline-driven work, and maintaining high journalistic standards. Since the role lacks formal personnel responsibilities, high demands are placed on collaboration skills and leading without formal authority. Additionally, digitalization and restructuring within the media industry can create uncertainties about future working methods.
Tips for aspiring editors-in-chief without managerial hierarchy
To succeed as an editor-in-chief without managerial hierarchy, it is beneficial to be communicative and able to inspire others without formal authority. Precision and an eye for detail help ensure journalistic quality and credibility in all content. Flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt to changes in news flow are advantageous, especially in a digital media environment. Building broad networks within the industry and continuously developing knowledge of new publishing platforms and media trends is also important. Self-leadership and initiative are highly valued, as the role often requires independent work and responsibility. A strong commitment to journalistic values and the ability to collaborate and uplift editorial teams are crucial for long-term success.
Key facts about an editor-in-chief without managerial hierarchy
- Educational level: Post-secondary education, often in journalism (3 years or more)
- Work environment: Office-based, often with flexible hours and remote work opportunities
- Common employment type: Permanent media employment, but consultancy assignments also occur
- Occupational group: Journalists etc. (SSYK 2642)
- Job openings in the profession: 620 (2024)
Career paths and future outlook
After three to five years as an editor-in-chief without managerial hierarchy, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as editorial manager, content manager, or other leadership positions with greater strategic responsibility. Experience in the role can also lead to specialist positions within digital publishing, development editing, or communications at larger companies. According to the Employment Service, no precise forecast exists for this profession due to limited data, but the profession of journalists saw 620 job openings in 2024. Future prospects are influenced by the media industry's shift to digital channels and changing consumption patterns, but the demand for qualified editorial leaders is expected to remain stable in the long term.
Frequently asked questions about an editor-in-chief without managerial hierarchy
- What does an editor-in-chief without managerial hierarchy earn?
- The average salary is 44 800 SEK per month, with a minimum of 43,900 SEK and a maximum of 51,000 SEK.
- What education is required to become an editor-in-chief without managerial hierarchy?
- Usually, a post-secondary education in journalism, often at university level (at least 3 years), is required.
- Are there salary differences between women and men?
- Yes, women earn on average 44 400 SEK and men 45 200 SEK, which means women earn 98% of men's salaries.
- What benefits are common in the profession?
- Common benefits include wellness allowances, flexible working hours, remote work, and occupational pension.
- What are the future prospects for editors-in-chief without managerial hierarchy?
- No forecast is available, but in the profession of journalists, 620 job openings were available in 2024.
- What does working without managerial hierarchy entail?
- It involves leading editorial work and ensuring content quality without formal personnel responsibilities.
- What is the most common work environment?
- Office-based environment, often with opportunities for remote work and flexible hours.
