Executive Secretary

What does an Executive Secretary do? – Tasks and Work Environment

An Executive Secretary works closely with company management or the leadership team and functions as a central administrative resource within the organization. Common tasks include planning and coordinating meetings, writing minutes, handling documents and communication, and sometimes managing calendars and travel bookings. The role requires discretion, organizational skills, and the ability to handle confidential information. The work environment is usually office-based, and the pace can be high, especially in larger companies or public organizations where many stakeholders are involved.

Salary Development Over Time

The salary for an Executive Secretary has shown stable and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,800 SEK per month, which increased to 40 200 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has continued to rise and now stands at 40 900 SEK, representing an approximately 8% increase over three years. The salary development reflects both the increased demand for qualified administrative skills and general wage growth in the service sector. Salaries are also influenced by factors such as education level, sector, and experience, with private sector employees and those with postgraduate education often earning higher wages. Despite some gender pay differences, the gap is relatively small within the profession.

Executive Secretary Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 40 900 SEK/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: 31,000–48,900 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 246 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 41 600 SEK, women 40 800 SEK (women earn 98% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and sector, with higher wages in metropolitan areas and within the private sector.

Education and Qualifications

To work as an Executive Secretary, a high school education with an administrative focus is typically required, often supplemented with postgraduate studies in economics, administration, or similar fields. Practical experience in qualified administrative work is highly valuable and sometimes a requirement. Employers often demand good skills in Swedish and English, as well as familiarity with digital tools and office systems.

• High school diploma: Administrative or economic specialization (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: YH training, university courses, or similar (1–3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in Office suite, project administration, or business communication
• Internships/Experience: Previous work as a secretary or administrator is advantageous
• Prerequisites: Good language skills, administrative ability, and digital competence

Common Benefits and Compensation

Executive Secretaries are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexitime, and subsidized lunch. Opportunities for remote work and professional development also exist, especially in larger organizations. Bonuses and extra vacation days may be offered depending on the employer and sector.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for positions as an Executive Secretary is moderate, with a balanced supply and demand on the job market. The Employment Service's forecasts show that job opportunities are medium and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Challenges in the profession include staying updated with new digital tools, managing a high work tempo, and meeting demands for flexibility and discretion. The role also requires strong communication skills and the ability to prioritize tasks.

Tips for Aspiring Executive Secretaries

To succeed as an Executive Secretary, it is important to be meticulous and organized, as the role often involves managing many tasks simultaneously and maintaining order in complex calendars. A high level of service and discretion are essential qualities, as the role involves close contact with leadership and sometimes handling confidential information. Developing digital skills and familiarizing oneself with new administrative tools increases employability, as does practicing business communication in Swedish and English. Flexibility and adaptability are valuable when the pace is high and priorities can change quickly. Building a network within the industry and taking on additional responsibilities can open up career opportunities. Finally, demonstrating initiative and independence is crucial, as many employers appreciate proactive support in this role.

Key Facts about Executive Secretaries

• Education level: High school diploma with an administrative focus, often supplemented with postgraduate studies
• Work environment: Office-based, often in larger companies or public sector
• Typical working hours: Full-time, daytime, with potential for remote work
• Demand: Medium opportunities according to the Employment Service
• Special skills: Office suite, business communication, discretion

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years in the role of Executive Secretary, there are good opportunities to advance to more senior administrative positions, such as executive assistant, project coordinator, or management support. For those wishing to broaden their skills, further education in economics, HR, or project management can open new career paths. The Employment Service's prognosis indicates that demand for Executive Secretaries and related professions is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with a balanced recruitment situation nationally. Currently, there are 758 job openings within the roles of chief secretary and CEO assistants, indicating a stable job market. Those aiming for larger companies or international organizations may find even better opportunities, especially with strong language skills and digital competence.

Frequently Asked Questions about Executive Secretaries

• What does an Executive Secretary earn?
  - An Executive Secretary has an average salary of 40 900 SEK per month, with an hourly rate of 246 SEK.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Men earn an average of 41 600 SEK and women 40 800 SEK, which means women earn 98% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become an Executive Secretary?
  - High school education with an administrative focus is common, preferably supplemented with postgraduate studies and relevant courses.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The Employment Service assesses job opportunities as medium, with a stable outlook over the next five years.
• What are the most common job duties?
  - Planning and coordinating meetings, taking minutes, managing documents and communication, and calendar administration.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries may be higher in metropolitan regions and within the private sector compared to other parts of the country and public sector.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Progression to roles such as executive assistant, project coordinator, management support, or specialized administrative roles is common.