Business leader, in forestry, without chief hierarchy

What does a Business Manager in forestry without a management hierarchy do? – Tasks and work environment

A business manager in forestry without a management hierarchy is responsible for planning, organizing, and leading operations in smaller forestry companies or on assignments within larger corporations where traditional management levels are absent. The tasks often include strategic decision-making and practical fieldwork, such as forest management, harvesting, machinery planning, and coordinating work crews. The role requires broad knowledge of forest economics, environmental regulations, and sustainable management, while ensuring the company's business goals and profitability. The work environment is characterized by high independence, significant responsibility, and close contact with landowners, contractors, and sometimes authorities.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salaries for business managers in forestry without a management hierarchy have shown positive growth. In 2022, the average salary was 29,600 SEK per month, increasing to 30 200 SEK in 2023, and further to 31 800 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 7.4% during the period, with a noticeable acceleration in the past year. The salary increase can be explained by increased demand for independent leaders in forestry, as well as general wage adjustments in the green sectors. The shortage of labor and increased demands for sustainability and efficiency in operations have likely contributed to raising salary levels.

Business managers in forestry – comprehensive salary overview

• Average salary: 31 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (man): 31,500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (woman): 32,400 SEK/month
• Highest salary (man): 38,100 SEK/month
• Highest salary (woman): 34,900 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 191 SEK
• Women earn: 105% of what men do (33 400 SEK/month versus 31 700 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: No specific data available

Education and qualifications

To work as a business manager in forestry without a management hierarchy, a relevant high school education in natural resources or forestry is usually required, often supplemented with post-secondary courses or shorter programs in forest management and business administration. Practical experience from forestry work and knowledge of machinery, environmental regulations, and leadership are highly meritorious. Self-study and continuous skills development are also important to stay updated with industry requirements.

• High school education: Natural resources or forestry, 3 years
• Post-secondary courses: Forest management, business administration (up to 2 years)
• Certifications: Chainsaw license, machinery operator certificate
• Internship: Recommended during education
• Prerequisites: Often B driver's license and forestry experience

Common benefits and compensations

Typical benefits for business managers in forestry include company cars, wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes opportunities for further training. Some employers also offer bonuses or performance-based compensation, as well as flexibility in working hours and vacation. In some cases, accommodation at the workplace or natural benefits are included in the employment.

Competition and challenges

The profession of a forestry business manager without a management hierarchy is characterized by a paradoxical labor market: there are many vacancies, but also many who choose to leave the profession. The industry faces recruitment difficulties, partly due to high demands for broad competence and work experience. Challenges often involve balancing economic profitability with sustainability and environmental regulations, managing fluctuating workloads, and sometimes physically demanding work environments. Additionally, good cooperation and leadership skills without traditional management structures are required.

Tips for aspiring forestry business managers without a management hierarchy

To succeed as a forestry business manager without a management hierarchy, combining independence with good collaboration skills is beneficial, as the role requires both initiative and close contact with colleagues and contractors. Being solution-oriented helps address unforeseen problems, while an analytical mindset facilitates planning and resource allocation. Engagement in sustainable development and environmental issues are also valuable traits, especially when operations must meet both economic and ecological demands. Continuously furthering education and staying updated on technological advances can provide a competitive edge. Last but not least, the ability to build and maintain networks is essential for business development and long-term success in the profession.

Key facts about Business Managers in forestry without a management hierarchy

• Education level: High school education with post-secondary courses is common
• Work environment: Independent and varied, often outdoors
• Demand: Great opportunities for work nationwide
• Typical employment form: Permanent employment or self-employment
• Special skills: Forest management, machinery handling, environmental regulations

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the role of forestry business manager without a management hierarchy, there are opportunities to advance to larger responsibilities, such as regional manager or consultant in forest management. Some choose to start their own business or specialize in areas like environmental certification, digital forest planning, or training. The employment agency's forecasts show that job opportunities are plentiful and expected to remain stable over the next five years. Despite recruitment challenges and some attrition from the profession, career prospects are considered stable, especially for those with the right skills and networks.

Frequently asked questions about Business Managers in forestry without a management hierarchy

• What does a Business Manager in forestry without a management hierarchy earn?
  - The average salary is 31 800 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and gender.
• What education is required to become a business manager in forestry?
  - Typically, a high school education in natural resources, supplemented with post-secondary courses and practical experience.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn on average 105% of men's salaries within the profession.
• Are there many job openings in the industry?
  - Yes, approximately 360 jobs are available nationally within the industry.
• What benefits are common?
  - Company cars, wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes bonuses or further training.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Demand for forestry business managers is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What is the highest salary in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 38,100 SEK per month for a man with less than three years of post-secondary education.