Financial Secretary

What does an Economic Secretary do? – Tasks and work environment

An Economic Secretary primarily works with administrative and financial tasks that support the daily operations of the finance department. Typical duties include invoice handling, ongoing bookkeeping, budget monitoring, reporting, and contact with suppliers and internal departments. The role requires accuracy, good numerical skills, and a strong sense of structure and order. The work environment is usually office-based, with regular use of financial systems and close collaboration with colleagues in finance, administration, and management. The pace can be high during closing periods or reporting times.

Salary development over time

The salary for an Economic Secretary has shown steady and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,200 SEK per month, increasing to 43 000 SEK in 2023. The latest recorded average salary for 2024 is 44 300 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 7.5% over the period. This salary trend reflects continued demand for qualified financial administration and an increased focus on digitization and efficiency within finance departments. Gender differences have been relatively small, but women still earn slightly less than men, in line with trends in finance-related professions generally. Salary levels are also influenced by education, employment type, and sector (private or public).

Economic Secretary salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 44 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 33,200 SEK (men), 35,200 SEK (women)
• Highest salary: 48,500 SEK (men), 45,000 SEK (women)
• Hourly wage (average): 266 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 97% of what men do (men: 45 400 SEK, women: 44 000 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region, employer, and sector

Education and qualifications

To work as an Economic Secretary, a post-secondary education in economics, administration, or accounting is usually required. Many employers prefer candidates with experience using financial systems and knowledge of bookkeeping, but there are also opportunities to supplement with courses or certifications in economics and administration. Practical experience through internships or trainee programs is often advantageous and can provide valuable insight into the profession.

• Post-secondary education: Vocational college or university, typically 2–3 years
• Certifications: Courses in accounting, bookkeeping, or administration
• Internships: Internships or trainee programs in finance are meritorious
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of economics and good computer skills
• Tips for choosing: Select education with practical components and financial systems

Common benefits and compensations

Economic Secretaries are often offered benefits such as pension schemes, wellness contributions, flexitime, and opportunities for skills development. Other common compensations include subsidized lunches, extra vacation days, and insurance coverage, especially with larger employers and within the public sector.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an Economic Secretary is moderate, with nationally 758 job openings in the accounting profession. The demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, indicating a stable job market. One of the major challenges is staying updated on new financial systems and digital tools, as work processes are constantly evolving. Changes in regulations and increased digitalization also require ongoing skills development. Workload can vary significantly throughout the year, especially during closing periods or major reporting times.

Tips for those aspiring to become an Economic Secretary

To succeed as an Economic Secretary, it’s helpful to have a structured work approach and attention to detail, as financial tasks require precision. Good organizational skills facilitate handling large amounts of information and contribute to an efficient workflow. Being communicative and service-minded makes it easier to collaborate with colleagues and manage contact with suppliers or other departments. Flexibility is also an important trait, especially when workload varies during the year. It’s recommended to gain experience with various financial systems and participate in further training in finance and administration. Showing engagement and willingness to take responsibility can, over time, open doors to more qualified roles. Finally, it’s valuable to have an interest in developing personal work methods and improving routines within financial administration.

Key facts about Economic Secretaries

• Education level: Post-secondary education (2–3 years)
• Work environment: Office-based with digital tools
• Work form: Full-time is most common, sometimes flexitime
• Demand: Moderate job opportunities expected in the next five years
• Special skills: Financial systems, bookkeeping, and administration

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the role of an Economic Secretary, there are opportunities to advance to positions such as accountant, controller, financial manager, or administrative manager. By broadening skills in areas like project management, reporting, or financial control, new career paths can open, both in private and public sectors. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast for the accounting profession, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, indicating a stable job market. Many also choose to pursue further education or specialize further in finance, which can lead to more advanced roles and higher salaries. Digitalization and automation of financial administration mean that broad system competence will become increasingly important in the future.

Frequently asked questions about Economic Secretaries

• What does an Economic Secretary earn?
  - The average salary is 44 300 SEK per month, but it varies depending on education, experience, and sector.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 45 400 SEK and women 44 000 SEK, which means women earn 97% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become an Economic Secretary?
  - A post-secondary education in economics or administration, usually 2–3 years, is most common.
• What is the job market like for Economic Secretaries?
  - The job market is considered stable with moderate opportunities and approximately 758 job openings within the profession.
• What tasks does an Economic Secretary perform?
  - Tasks include invoice management, bookkeeping, budget follow-up, reporting, and administrative support.
• How has the salary development been?
  - Salaries have increased from 41,200 SEK (2022) to 44 300 SEK (2024), a rise of about 7.5% over three years.
• What benefits are common for Economic Secretaries?
  - Pension schemes, wellness contributions, flexitime, and skills development are common benefits.