FM consultant

What does an FM consultant do? – Tasks and work environment

An FM consultant, or Facility Management consultant, works to streamline and develop organizations' support processes and property-related services. Tasks often include advising on space planning, procurement of service contracts, project management during renovations, and optimizing work environments. The FM consultant analyzes business needs and proposes solutions that lead to increased cost efficiency and improved work environments. The work is often carried out in close collaboration with management, operations staff, and external suppliers. The work environment is primarily office-based but can also include site visits and meetings at various facilities.

Salary development over time

The salary of an FM consultant has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 54,300 SEK per month, which increased to 55 500 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 58 400 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 7.5% over three years. This salary trend reflects an increased demand for qualified facility management skills and the expanded requirements to integrate sustainability and digitalization into operations. Differences in salary development may also depend on employer sector, education level, and experience. The trend indicates that the role of FM consultant is becoming increasingly strategic and competitive in the job market.

FM consultant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 58 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 42,600 SEK/month (female, government sector, upper secondary education, up to 2 years)
• Highest salary: 92,000 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, data unavailable)
• Highest salary (male): 79,500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (male): 46,400 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 351 SEK
• Women earn: 54 600 SEK/month (88% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 62 300 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data varies, often higher salaries in metropolitan regions

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming an FM consultant often involves higher education in engineering, economics, or property management, complemented by leadership or project management experience. Certifications and specialized courses in facility management are common and can enhance employability. Practical experience, such as from trainee programs or internships, is highly valued. The ability to work consultatively and understand complex organizational structures is often crucial for success in the role.

• Formal education: University degree in engineering, economics, or property management (3–5 years)
• Certifications: IFMA, CoreNet, or similar FM certificates
• Internship/trainee: Common in larger consulting firms or property companies
• Prerequisites: Experience in project management or business development
• Courses/online: Opportunities for further education via industry organizations

Common benefits and compensation

FM consultants are often offered attractive benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, and remote work opportunities. Other common compensations include bonus schemes and further training, especially with larger employers. Company cars and extra vacation days are also sometimes included, depending on the employer and employment agreement.

Competition and challenges

The competition for assignments as an FM consultant is considered moderate, and the job market is characterized by a balance between supply and demand. The role often requires high adaptability, business acumen, and the ability to quickly understand clients’ needs. Digitalization and sustainability impose new requirements for skills development, and many employers seek consultants with documented experience in complex projects. Challenges also include managing multiple parallel assignments and ensuring quality in deliveries, which requires good self-leadership and structure.

Tips for those who want to become an FM consultant

To succeed as an FM consultant, it is beneficial to be both analytical and communicative, as the role requires identifying complex problems and clearly conveying solutions. Building a strong network in the industry provides valuable contacts and opens doors to new assignments. Flexibility and the ability to work in changing environments facilitate projects of varying scope and focus. Good organizational skills help keep multiple processes in order, and curiosity aids in staying updated on new trends and technologies. Being attentive to clients’ needs and daring to suggest improvements is crucial, as is a structured working approach and the ability to collaborate with different professional roles.

Key facts about FM consultant

• Education level: University degree (3–5 years) in engineering, economics, or property management
• Work environment: Office-based with site visits
• Job market: 758 available jobs in the profession
• Demand: Moderate opportunities, forecast unchanged over 5 years
• Typical work form: Consulting assignments, often project-based

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an FM consultant, opportunities open for roles such as senior consultant, project manager for larger development projects, or management within facility management. Some choose to specialize in occupational health, sustainability, or digitalization of property operations. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that the job market for management and organizational development professionals, including FM consultants, is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with moderate opportunities and balance in the job market. The demand for qualified skills in the area is thus considered stable, especially as organizations set higher requirements for sustainability and efficiency.

Frequently asked questions about FM consultant

• What does an FM consultant earn?
  - An FM consultant has an average salary of 58 400 SEK per month, but the salary can vary from 42,600 SEK to 92,000 SEK depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• What education is required to become an FM consultant?
  - Usually, a university degree in engineering, economics, or property management, often supplemented with certifications and project management experience.
• Are there gender differences in salary for FM consultants?
  - Yes, women earn on average 88% of what men do in the profession, which corresponds to 54 600 SEK for women and 62 300 SEK for men.
• What is the job market like for FM consultants?
  - There are 758 available jobs in the profession, and the job market is considered balanced with moderate opportunities for employment.
• What benefits are common for FM consultants?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, remote work, and further training.
• What career paths are available for FM consultants?
  - After a few years, FM consultants can advance to senior roles, project managers, or management within facility management.