Controller, business

What does a controller within business do? – Tasks and work environment

A controller within business is responsible for analyzing, evaluating, and monitoring financial results and processes in companies and organizations. The work involves preparing decision support, budgeting, forecasting, and reporting to management and other stakeholders. Controllers often work closely with finance managers and operational managers to ensure that organizational goals are achieved through effective financial management. The work environment is typically office-based and characterized by a high analytical level, deadline focus, and close collaboration with the finance department and various parts of the organization.

Salary development over time

The salary for a controller within business has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 52,600 SEK per month, rising to 54 700 in 2023, which corresponds to an increase of about 4.0%. In 2024, the average salary reached 56 600, a further increase of approximately 3.5%. This positive trend can be explained by increased demand for qualified controllers as companies and organizations place greater emphasis on financial analysis and control. Salary levels are also influenced by education and experience, with competition for the most experienced and specialized candidates pushing salaries higher.

Controller, business salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 56 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 40,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 67,000 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage (average): 340 SEK
• Women: 53 200 SEK/month
• Men: 61 900 SEK/month
• Women's salary as a percentage of men's: 86%

Education and qualifications

To work as a controller within business, a university degree in economics, business administration, or similar fields is usually required. Many employers also value practical experience in accounting, financial closing, or financial management. Specialized courses, certifications, and internships can strengthen competitiveness in the job market. Further education in data analysis or business systems is advantageous.

• Economics degree: Bachelor's (3 years) or master's (1–2 years additional)
• Certifications: For example, Certified Controller, courses in IFRS or Excel
• Internships: Often advantageous with internships or trainee programs within finance
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility and mathematics/economics at upper secondary level
• Further education: Courses in data analysis, BI systems, or business systems

Common benefits and compensation

Controllers within business are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, remote work options, and professional development. Other common compensations include bonus programs, extra vacation days, and sometimes company cars, depending on the employer and sector.

Competition and challenges

The profession of controller, business is characterized by a competitive situation where demand for qualified candidates is balanced with supply. There are many job opportunities nationally, but employers often seek individuals with the right combination of education, practical experience, and analytical skills. A challenge is to stay updated on new business systems and digital tools, as well as to quickly adapt to changing legal requirements and reporting standards. The ability to communicate complex figures to non-economists is also crucial for success in the role. At the same time, the role often involves a high pace and many deadlines, which demands stress resilience and organizational skills.

Tips for those who want to become a controller within business

To succeed as a controller within business, it is helpful to be analytical and able to see connections in large data sets, which facilitates preparing budgets and forecasts. Precision is important, as small errors can have significant consequences in reporting. Being communicative and pedagogical helps when explaining complex financial relationships to others in the organization. Flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt to new digital tools and changing work processes are also advantages. The ability to work independently but also collaborate with others contributes to a successful career as a controller. A continuous desire to develop your knowledge and stay updated on new regulations and business systems provides a competitive edge. Finally, stress resilience and good planning skills are essential for managing periods of high workload and many deadlines.

Key facts about Controller, business

• Educational level: Bachelor's degree or higher in economics
• Work environment: Office-based, often flexible/remote
• Demand: Moderate opportunities, 758 job openings nationwide
• Typical employment form: Full-time, private sector employee
• Gender salary difference: Women earn 86% of men's salaries

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a controller within business, opportunities open to advance to roles such as senior controller, finance manager, or specialist roles within, for example, group accounting or business development. It is also common for controllers to move into leadership positions within finance or business support. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, the job market for controllers is balanced nationally, with moderate opportunities and an expected unchanged demand over the next five years. The role is in demand in both private and public sectors, especially in larger organizations where financial management and operational analysis are central. With the right further education and experience, a controller can also take the step into more strategic roles such as CFO or operations controller.

Common questions about Controller, business

• What does a controller within business earn?
  - The average salary for a controller within business is 56 600 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and sector.
• What are the gender differences in controller, business salary?
  - Men earn an average of 61 900 SEK and women 53 200 SEK, which means women earn 86% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a controller?
  - A bachelor's degree or higher in economics or business administration is standard, often supplemented with internships and certifications.
• What are the responsibilities of a controller?
  - Tasks include budgeting, follow-up, reporting, analysis, and supporting decision-makers within the organization.
• What are the future prospects for controllers?
  - The job market is considered balanced with moderate opportunities and unchanged demand over the next five years.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Salary levels may vary between major cities and other regions, but generally salaries are somewhat higher in metropolitan areas.
• What career paths are available after a few years as a controller?
  - After a few years, it is common to advance to senior controller, finance manager, or specialist roles within finance.