- Salary statistics
- Head of Department
Head of Department
115 500 - 120 900 kr / month
Chefer & ledare
Salary progression Head of Department
What does a department head do? – Job tasks and work environment
A department head leads one of the government's departments and is ultimately responsible for the strategic direction, operational management, and administrative control of the organization. The role involves coordinating political decisions, ensuring laws and regulations are applied, and leading large projects and processes within public administration. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace, numerous meetings, and extensive responsibility for both staff and budgets. Contact with politicians, agencies, and external stakeholders is a central part of the profession.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, salaries for department heads have shown a steady but slow increase. In 2022, the average salary was 79,816 kronor per month, followed by a slight increase to 80 466 kronor in 2023. In 2024, the average monthly salary was 80 802 kronor, representing a total increase of approximately 1.2 % during the period. Salary development for department heads is mainly influenced by government budget frameworks, negotiation conditions, and overall salary trends in the public sector. The demand for qualified leaders in political roles remains stable, helping to keep salary levels high and competitive.
Department head salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 80 802 kr/month
- Lowest salary: 115,500 kr/month
- Highest salary: 120,900 kr/month
- Hourly wage (average): 486 kr
- Gender differences: No specific data for men or women
- Regional differences: Not specified
Education and qualifications
Becoming a department head requires extensive academic training, often in law, social sciences, or political science, combined with many years of experience in public administration or politics. Many also pursue further education and specialized leadership training. Practical experience in managerial positions and a good understanding of political processes are essential for success.
- Formal degree: Master's or postgraduate degree (4–5 years) in a relevant field
- Leadership training: Courses and certifications in public governance
- Internship/trainee: Experience from senior roles in the public sector
- Prerequisites: Several years of high-level work experience
- Tips for selection: Engage in societal issues and network within political circles
A department head often plays a key role in major political reforms and can influence societal development directly through their leadership. The role therefore requires both strategic insight and a strong interest in societal issues.
Common benefits and compensations
Department heads often enjoy benefits such as occupational pension, generous vacation terms, wellness allowances, and opportunities for professional development. Other common compensations may include representation allowances, company cars, and sometimes bonuses linked to specific assignments or results. Working conditions are generally very favorable compared to other leadership roles in the public sector.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as a department head is very fierce, as the number of roles is limited and the requirements for experience and competence are high. A background in state administration and a strong network within politics are particularly valued. Challenges include balancing political demands with operational needs, managing change, and making quick decisions under pressure. Budget constraints and high transparency requirements in the public sector also pose specific challenges for department heads.
Tips for aspiring department heads
To succeed as a department head, it is beneficial to develop analytical skills and the ability to quickly grasp complex issues, while strategic thinking and long-term planning are essential. Demonstrating leadership and inspiring others, being communicative, and building trust internally and externally are important. Experience in similar leadership roles and broad societal knowledge are advantages, as is flexibility and the ability to handle stressful situations. Continuously building networks and staying updated on political trends further enhances career opportunities.
Key facts about department heads
- Educational level: Master's or postgraduate degree (4–5 years)
- Work environment: Office-based, fast-paced, high confidentiality
- Typical working hours: Full-time, often with overtime
- Demand: 175 job openings (2024)
- Special skills: Public administration and political leadership
Career paths and future outlook
After three to five years as a department head, opportunities often open for even higher positions within the civil service, such as director-general or state secretary. Some department heads advance to international assignments within the EU or UN, while others choose to work as advisors or consultants in the public sector. According to the Employment Service, demand remains stable, and the available positions indicate ongoing career opportunities for experienced leaders with the right profile. Digitalization and increased collaboration between agencies are expected to influence the profession's development in the future.
Frequently asked questions about department heads
- What does a department head earn?
- A department head has an average salary of 80 802 kronor per month, with the highest recorded salary at 120,900 kronor and the lowest at 115,500 kronor. - What education is required to become a department head?
- Typically, a master's or postgraduate degree in law, political science, or social sciences, along with extensive leadership experience in the public sector. - What are the job responsibilities of a department head?
- Responsibilities include strategic management, personnel oversight, budget control, and coordination of political decisions. - Are there regional salary differences?
- No specific regional salary differences have been reported for department heads. - What are the future prospects for department heads?
- Demand remains stable with 175 job openings in the profession, according to recent statistics. - What personal qualities are important for a department head?
- Analytical skills, leadership, communication abilities, and stress resilience are crucial.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 98% | 116900 kr | 116900 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 115500 kr | 115500 kr |
| 55-64 | 115500 kr | 115500 kr | |
| Snitt | 99% | 116100 kr | 116100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 98% | 116900 kr | 116900 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 115500 kr | 115500 kr |
| 55-64 | 115500 kr | 115500 kr | |
| Snitt | 99% | 116100 kr | 116100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 98% | 118100 kr | 118100 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 115500 kr | 115500 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 116500 kr | 116500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 98% | 118100 kr | 118100 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 115500 kr | 115500 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 116500 kr | 116500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 98% | 115500 kr | 115500 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 115500 kr | 115500 kr |
| 55-64 | 115500 kr | 115500 kr | |
| Snitt | 99% | 115500 kr | 115500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 98% | 115500 kr | 115500 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 115500 kr | 115500 kr |
| 55-64 | 115500 kr | 115500 kr | |
| Snitt | 99% | 115500 kr | 115500 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Head of Department has the SSYK code 1111, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
-
Opinion Poll Status Novus: Unchanged Support – Social Democrats Largest
Wed, 19 Nov 2025 - 08:35 -
The National Debt – Level, Development, and Significance for Sweden
Wed, 8 Oct 2025 - 08:00