Export Secretary

What does an export secretary do? – Tasks and work environment

An export secretary supports the company's export operations through administration, customer contact, and document management. Common tasks include handling order reception, invoicing, transport bookings, and ensuring export documents and customs formalities are correct and compliant with regulations. The work is often done in close collaboration with salespeople, logistics partners, and international customers. Export secretaries are usually based in offices with access to digital tools and often work at a fast pace to manage quick deliveries and changes in export flows.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for export secretaries has shown steady growth. In 2022, the average salary was 46,700 SEK per month, increasing to 49 600 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 51 300 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 9.8 % over the period. The salary development indicates that the profession's importance for international trade has strengthened, while increased demands for language skills and digital competence may have contributed to the role's valuation. The market's demand for qualified export administration and the increasing complexity of international business have likely also positively influenced salary trends.

Export secretary salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 51 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,200 SEK/month (female, public sector)
• Highest salary: 61,500 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, over 3 years of post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 309 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 47 200 SEK, men 53 000 SEK (women earn 89 % of men's salaries)
• Regional differences: No data available on regional differences

Education and qualifications

To work as an export secretary, a high school diploma with a focus on economics, commerce, or administration is usually required. Many employers prefer candidates with post-secondary education in international trade, logistics, or business administration. Practical experience in administration, language skills, and understanding of international regulations are often advantageous. Certifications in export management and customs issues can be an extra plus.

• High school diploma: Economics, commerce, or administration
• Post-secondary education: 1–3 years in international trade, logistics, or business administration
• Certifications: Courses in export management and customs regulations
• Language skills: English and preferably additional languages
• Internship: Experience in administrative work is advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Export secretaries are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, occupational pension, flexible hours, and sometimes remote work. There may also be employee discounts, subsidized lunches, and opportunities for travel or participation in international trade fairs, where per diems and travel reimbursements can be provided.

Competition and challenges

The competition for export secretary positions is moderate, with a balanced labor market according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts. Challenges in the profession can include managing rapid changes in international trade regulations, high demands for accuracy, and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Digitalization and automation are transforming work processes, increasing requirements for technical skills and flexibility. Language skills and understanding of different cultures are valuable qualities to succeed in the role.

Tips for those wishing to become an export secretary

To succeed as an export secretary, it is good to have a structured work style and the ability to quickly learn new routines. Strengthening language skills, especially English, is recommended since international contacts are a large part of daily work. Precision is crucial for handling documentation and customs formalities correctly, while resilience helps during quick deliveries and unexpected changes. Being service-minded and communicative facilitates collaboration with both internal and external partners. A proactive approach and interest in international trade increase the chances of rapid development in the profession. Finally, taking initiative for further education or certifications in export and logistics is valuable.

Key facts about Export secretaries

• Educational level: High school or post-secondary education in trade, economics, or logistics
• Work environment: Office-based, often with digital tools and international contacts
• Typical work form: Full-time, sometimes with flexible hours or remote options
• Demand: Moderate, approximately 550 job openings in the field
• Special skills: Export regulations, customs handling, language skills

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an export secretary, there are good opportunities to advance to more qualified roles such as export manager, logistics coordinator, or specialist in customs and trade issues. Some choose to further their education in international sales or project management within export. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, opportunities for employment as a business salesperson, which includes export secretaries, are moderate with unchanged demand over the next five years. The recruitment situation is characterized by balance, meaning supply and demand for labor are evenly distributed. However, digitalization and increased globalization may create new career paths and require additional skills in the profession.

Common questions about Export secretaries

• What does an export secretary earn?
  - The average salary is 51 300 SEK per month, but salaries vary between 38,200 SEK and 61,500 SEK depending on experience, education, and employer.
• What education is required to become an export secretary?
  - Usually, a high school diploma in economics or commerce, but post-secondary studies in international trade or logistics are advantageous.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 47 200 SEK, while men earn 53 000 SEK, meaning women earn 89 % of men's salaries within the profession.
• What is the job market like for export secretaries?
  - The demand is moderate with about 550 job openings, and the job market is considered balanced.
• What personal qualities are important for the role?
  - Organized, meticulous, service-minded, and resilient under stress are qualities highly valued in the profession.
• What benefits are common for export secretaries?
  - Wellness allowances, occupational pension, flexible hours, and sometimes remote work options are common benefits.
• Is there room for advancement within export careers?
  - Yes, many progress to roles such as export manager, logistics coordinator, or other specialist positions after a few years.