Operations Manager, Property Management

What does a property management operations manager do? – Tasks and work environment

A property management operations manager is responsible for leading and developing the operation of property portfolios, including technical maintenance and financial management. Tasks include planning and following up on operation and maintenance work, optimizing energy consumption, ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, and managing contact with contractors, tenants, and other stakeholders. The role often involves personnel responsibility for technicians and other staff. The work environment is varied, combining office work with regular visits to properties, requiring both technical understanding and leadership skills.

Salary development over time

The salary for a property management operations manager has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 48,800 SEK per month, rising the following year to 49 200 SEK, which is an increase of just under 1%. In 2024, the average salary continued to grow to 50 600 SEK, a growth of approximately 2.8% compared to the previous year. This positive trend reflects increased demand for experienced managers as property owners prioritize energy efficiency, digitalization, and sustainability initiatives. Salary increases are also influenced by overall developments in the job market, where employers compete for skills in technical management and leadership.

Property management operations manager salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 50 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 42,900 SEK/month (female, private sector, secondary education)
• Highest salary: 52,000 SEK/month (male, private sector, unspecified education level)
• Hourly wage (average): 304 SEK
• Gender differences: Men earn 51 900 SEK/month, women earn 48 400 SEK/month (women 93% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary variations may occur between metropolitan areas and rural regions, where larger cities often offer higher salaries due to increased competition for skills.

Education and qualifications

To work as a property management operations manager, a post-secondary education in property, engineering, or energy is usually required. Many employers seek experience from operations, maintenance, or technical management, along with documented leadership skills. Certifications and industry-specific courses are often advantageous and can improve recruitment prospects. Practical experience is highly valued and is often combined with ongoing professional development in areas such as energy efficiency and digital systems.

• Post-secondary education: YH education (2 years) or university degree in property, engineering, or energy
• Certifications: e.g., certificates in energy efficiency, BAS-P/U, or similar
• Internship/Trainee: Practical experience in operations or technical management is often required
• Leadership courses: Meritorious for managerial positions
• Prerequisites: High school diploma in engineering, construction, or similar

Common benefits and compensations

Property management operations managers are often offered benefits such as company cars, wellness allowances, extra vacation days, and pension contributions beyond collective agreements. Employers also frequently cover further training, conferences, and sometimes bonuses tied to achieved goals. Benefits vary depending on employer and region.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a property management operations manager is moderate, according to national forecasts. The industry faces several challenges, such as increasing demands for energy efficiency, digitalization of property systems, and a greater focus on sustainability. The recruitment situation is expected to be balanced, but demand for qualified managers is projected to grow in the future. Rapid technological development requires continuous further education and adaptability, making it important to be proactive and curious about new solutions. For those seeking career advancement, combining leadership skills with technical expertise and understanding of the property market is essential.

Tips for aspiring property management operations managers

To succeed as a property management operations manager, it’s beneficial to have an analytical mindset and the ability to see the big picture in property operation and finances. Developing communication skills is crucial, as the role involves collaboration with technicians, tenants, and contractors. Clear leadership and the ability to motivate staff help create effective teams and successful projects. For solution-oriented individuals who enjoy responsibility, continuous education in new technology and energy issues is rewarding. Staying curious and updated on industry trends provides a competitive edge. A structured work approach and attention to detail facilitate handling complex operational issues and contribute to long-term results. Patience and perseverance are also important, as change initiatives and improvement processes often take time.

Key facts about property management operations managers

• Education level: Post-secondary education (YH or university)
• Work environment: Combination of office work and property visits
• Work hours: Usually full-time, sometimes flexible hours
• Demand: 564 job openings in 2024
• Future outlook: Demand expected to increase over the next five years

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a property management operations manager, opportunities often open for advancement to senior management roles, such as property director or regional manager. It’s also common to move into specialist roles within energy optimization or digital property management. According to the Swedish Employment Agency's forecast for property managers, job opportunities are currently moderate but are expected to increase over five years. The growing digitalization and focus on sustainability create new career paths and increasing demand for expertise in these areas. The industry offers good development opportunities for those who want to grow, in both private and public sectors.

Frequently asked questions about property management operations managers

• What does a property management operations manager earn?
  - A property management operations manager has an average salary of 50 600 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Men earn an average of 51 900 SEK and women 48 400 SEK, which means women earn 93% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become a property management operations manager?
  - Typically, a post-secondary education in property, engineering, or energy is required, along with experience in operations or technical management.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Demand for property management operations managers is expected to increase over the next five years according to the Swedish Employment Agency.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Common benefits include company cars, wellness allowances, extra vacation days, and pension contributions.
• What is the lowest and highest salary for the profession?
  - The lowest salary is 42,900 SEK and the highest is 52,000 SEK per month depending on education, experience, and sector.
• How many job openings are available in the profession?
  - There are 564 job openings in the property management profession according to current statistics.