What does a financial controller do? – Tasks and work environment
A financial controller is responsible for analyzing, monitoring, and reporting financial information within an organization. Common tasks include budgeting, forecasting, cost follow-up, and ensuring that the company's financial routines comply with internal guidelines and legal requirements. The role often involves working closely with management to facilitate decision-making and optimize profitability. The work environment is typically office-based with a high pace, deadline-driven processes, and a strong need for accuracy and integrity.
Salary development over time
The salary for a financial controller has shown a stable and positive development over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 52,600 SEK per month, which increased to 54 700 SEK in 2023 and further to 56 600 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 7.6% over the period. Factors driving the salary growth include increased demand for qualified financial analysis, higher reporting and governance requirements, and more companies investing in improving their internal financial management processes. The market's competition for experienced controllers and the high educational level within the profession have also contributed to steady salary increases.
Many financial controllers work closely with company management and gain insight into strategic decisions and business development. This position offers unique opportunities to influence the company's direction and develop into more senior roles, such as CFO or finance director.
Financial controller salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 56 600 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 40,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, pre-secondary education)
- Highest salary: 67,000 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
- Hourly wage: 340 SEK/hour (based on 166 working hours/month)
- Gender differences: Men 61 900 SEK, women 53 200 SEK (women earn 86% of men's salaries)
- Regional differences: Salary levels vary between large cities and rural areas, as well as between public and private sectors
Education and qualifications
To work as a financial controller, an academic degree in economics is required, often with specialization in accounting or financial management. Many employers prefer candidates with additional courses in areas such as auditing, corporate analysis, or business systems. Practical experience, preferably from accounting or controlling, is highly meritorious and can often compensate for formal qualifications.
- Formal education: Economics program or equivalent, 3–4 years at university/college
- Certifications: Examples include FAR's controller training, CIMA, or similar
- Internships: Experience from accounting, auditing, or trainee programs
- Prerequisites: Good knowledge of Excel and financial systems
- Tips: Choose specialization in accounting, finance, or management for broader opportunities
Common benefits and compensations
In addition to the base salary, benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, bonus programs, and extra vacation days are often offered. Many employers also provide flexible working hours, remote work options, and opportunities for professional development through courses and conferences.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as a financial controller is considered moderate, and the recruitment situation is balanced. The number of available jobs is relatively high within the profession, providing good opportunities for qualified candidates. At the same time, high demands are placed on analytical skills, accuracy, and the ability to handle complex financial information. Challenges may arise with increased digitalization and automation, requiring controllers to continuously update their knowledge of business systems and data analysis. Keeping up with changing regulations and reporting requirements is also an important part of the role.
Tips for those who want to become a financial controller
To succeed as a financial controller, it is good to be analytical and able to see connections in large data sets, which facilitates budgeting and forecasting. Precision is crucial to ensure accurate reports and compliance with legal requirements, so developing a structured work approach early is important. Being communicative and pedagogical helps when explaining complex figures to management and colleagues without a financial background. Initiative and a desire to develop are valuable, as tasks often change with new business needs and technological solutions. Finally, teamwork skills are central, since the role involves close collaboration with the finance department and other parts of the organization.
Key facts about the financial controller
- Education level: University or college degree (3–4 years)
- Work environment: Office-based with a high pace and many deadlines
- Demand: Moderate job opportunities, approximately 758 available jobs nationwide
- Special skills: Financial systems, Excel, reporting, and analysis
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the role of a financial controller, opportunities open to advance to more senior positions, such as senior controller, finance manager, or CFO. Many also choose to specialize in areas like group accounting, business development, or project management. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, the job market for controllers is expected to be balanced with moderate employment opportunities. Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, making the profession still attractive for those with the right education and experience. Digitalization and increased complexity within finance also drive the need for qualified controllers.
Common questions about financial controllers
- What does a financial controller earn?
- The average salary is 56 600 SEK per month, but it can vary from 40,500 SEK to 67,000 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
- How do gender differences look within financial controller salaries?
- Men earn an average of 61 900 SEK while women earn 53 200 SEK, which means women earn 86% of men's salaries.
- What education is required to become a financial controller?
- Typically, a university degree in economics is required, often 3–4 years, along with experience in accounting or controlling.
- Are there regional differences in financial controller salaries?
- Yes, salary levels are generally higher in large cities and within the private sector compared to rural areas and the public sector.
- What are the future prospects for financial controllers?
- The job market is considered balanced with moderate opportunities for employment, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
- What qualities are important for a financial controller?
- Analytical ability, precision, communication skills, and teamwork are central qualities for success in the profession.
