Financial consultant, agriculture

What does an agricultural business economist do? – Tasks and work environment

An agricultural business economist provides qualified financial advice to farming enterprises, farmers, and other stakeholders in the green sector. Tasks often include budgeting, financial statements, tax planning, investment calculations, and advice on EU support and grants. The consultant analyzes the company's financial situation and helps develop strategies for profitability and sustainability. The work is usually office-based, but field visits to farms and businesses are also an important part of the profession to build close relationships with clients and understand their operations in depth. The environment features a mix of independent tasks and close collaboration with colleagues and clients.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salaries for agricultural business economists have shown a clear upward trend. In 2022, the average salary was 40,300 SEK per month, increasing to 45 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 45 700 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 13.4% over the period. The sharpest increase occurred between 2022 and 2023, possibly due to increased demand for economic expertise in the agricultural sector and general wage pressures in the industry. In 2024, salary growth has plateaued somewhat, which may indicate market stabilization after a period of higher mobility and demand for specialized skills. The salary trend also reflects increasing complexity in the economics of the agricultural sector and a greater need for advice on sustainability and digitalization.

Agricultural business economist salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 45 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,400 SEK/month (female, privately employed worker, high school education)
• Highest salary: 49,300 SEK/month (male, privately employed executive, unspecified education)
• Average hourly wage: 275 SEK/hour
• Women: 41 300 SEK/month (85% of men's salary)
• Men: 48 700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data on specific regions is lacking, but generally wages may vary depending on employer and location.

Education and qualifications

To work as an agricultural business economist, a higher education in economics is typically required, preferably with a focus on agriculture or business administration. Many have studied at universities or colleges and supplemented with specialized courses in agricultural economics or agrarian economics. Practical experience from the agricultural sector and good understanding of rural entrepreneurship are often advantageous. Employers usually require both formal education and documented experience in advising or financial work.

• Bachelor's degree in economics or agricultural economics (3 years)
• Specialized courses in agricultural economics
• Internship or trainee position at an agricultural business or advisory firm
• Prerequisite: Basic eligibility for university studies
• Certifications in accounting/financial management are advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Agri-business economists often receive benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, and remote work options. Additional compensations may include performance-based bonuses, subsidized tools like computers and mobile phones, and sometimes company cars for frequent client visits. Opportunities for professional development and participation in industry conferences are also common.

Challenges and competition

The job market for agricultural business economists is relatively specialized, which means competition can vary depending on region and employer. Challenges include staying updated on regulatory changes, digitalization of financial processes, and increased sustainability reporting requirements. Since the agricultural sector is cyclical, demand for advice may fluctuate over time. Building trustful relationships with farmers also requires social skills and deep industry understanding. Despite these challenges, the profession is attractive for those wanting to combine economics with rural development and consultancy.

Tips for aspiring agricultural business economists

To succeed as an agricultural business economist, it’s beneficial to be analytical and genuinely interested in both economics and agriculture. Gaining early experience through internships or summer jobs at advisory firms can strengthen understanding of industry challenges. Being communicative and pedagogical helps during client meetings and when explaining complex economic concepts to farmers. Engagement and curiosity are important qualities, as regulations often change and new technology is continuously introduced. Networking and participating in industry events provide inspiration and valuable contacts. Developing digital skills is also advantageous, as financial systems and advisory tools are increasingly digital. Finally, resilience and problem-solving skills are key, as many challenges require patience and creative solutions.

Key facts about agricultural business economists

• Educational level: Bachelor's degree in economics or agricultural economics
• Work environment: Office-based with regular field visits
• Typical employment: Full-time, often within advisory firms or industry organizations
• Demand: 360 available jobs in 2024
• Special skills: Agricultural economics, accounting, advising

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an agricultural business economist, there are good opportunities to advance to senior advisor, team leader, or consulting manager at larger advisory firms. Some choose to specialize in areas such as sustainability reporting, business development, or EU subsidy advising. Others move into roles within banks, insurance companies, or government agencies with a focus on agriculture. According to the Swedish Employment Service’s forecasts, no specific assessment is made for the profession of agricultural business economist, as it falls within a broader occupational group. However, there are 360 available jobs for specialists and advisors in agriculture, indicating ongoing demand for these skills. Future prospects are influenced by factors such as digitalization, sustainability requirements, and changes in agricultural support policies.

Frequently asked questions about agricultural business economists

• What does an agricultural business economist earn?
  - The average salary is 45 700 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, gender, and employer.
• What education is required to become an agricultural business economist?
  - A bachelor's degree in economics or agricultural economics is most common, often supplemented with specialized courses in agricultural economics.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 41 300 SEK and men 48 700 SEK, which means women have approximately 85% of men's salary.
• How does the job market look for agricultural business economists?
  - There are 360 available jobs and ongoing demand for qualified advice, although no exact forecast is available.
• What are the job responsibilities of an agricultural business economist?
  - Providing advice on economics, tax issues, financial statements, investments, grants, as well as analyses and strategies for agricultural businesses.
• What is the highest and lowest salary within the profession?
  - The highest salary is 49,300 SEK (male, private sector), and the lowest is 34,400 SEK (female, private sector).
• Which personal qualities are important?
  - Analytical ability, communication skills, accuracy, and an interest in agricultural issues are central qualities.