Business leader, in the garden, without a managerial hierarchy

What does a gardening business manager without a managerial hierarchy do? – Tasks and work environment

A gardening business manager without a managerial hierarchy is responsible for operating and developing the business within the gardening industry, often in smaller or family-owned companies lacking traditional management structures. Tasks include planning and executing growing seasons, financial management, customer contact, logistics, and purchasing. The role often involves leading the operational team and working practically with cultivation, pruning, planting, and plant care. The work environment is largely outdoors and characterized by changing weather, seasonal variations, and physical labor, requiring both leadership and practical skills.

Salary development over time

The salary for gardening business managers without a managerial hierarchy has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 26,500 SEK per month, rising to 27 600 in 2023. The latest data for 2024 shows a further increase to 29 300, representing a total growth of approximately 10.5% over three years. This trend reflects an increased focus on sustainability and local production within the gardening sector, which has boosted demand for knowledgeable managers. At the same time, skill requirements and responsibilities have increased, possibly explaining the positive salary trend.

Gardening business manager salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 29 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 28,000 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 30,300 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 176 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 92% of what men do
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a gardening business manager without a managerial hierarchy, a combination of practical experience and education in the gardening industry is usually required. Many have a high school vocational education in gardening or natural resource management, but further education, courses, or college degrees are also common. Practical experience and leadership skills are often crucial, especially in smaller operations where structure and responsibilities are more informally distributed.

• High school vocational training: Natural resource management, gardening specialization (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: College programs in gardening (1–2 years)
• Certifications: Courses in plant knowledge, pruning, and sustainable cultivation
• Internships/trainee programs: Common during education
• Leadership courses: Meritorious for those seeking greater responsibility

Common benefits and compensations

In the role of gardening business manager, benefits such as wellness allowances, access to work clothing and equipment, and flexible working hours during the low season are common. Some employers also offer professional development through courses or trade fair visits, and sometimes staff discounts on plants and gardening products.

Competition and challenges

Competition within the gardening industry can be limited in smaller towns, but generally, it is a profession with few formal management levels, limiting traditional career progression opportunities. Challenges often include seasonal variations, weather dependence, and financial planning, where small margins can impact profitability. Since the leadership role is often informal, a high degree of initiative and independence is required. Changing climate conditions and increased sustainability demands may also necessitate new knowledge and adaptability.

Tips for aspiring gardening business managers without a managerial hierarchy

To succeed as a gardening business manager without a managerial hierarchy, it is important to be self-reliant and highly motivated, as much responsibility rests on personal initiative. Developing good organizational skills helps when tasks and seasons vary. A genuine interest in plants and sustainable cultivation contributes to long-term motivation and high-quality work. Building networks and establishing relationships with customers and suppliers can open new business opportunities, especially in smaller operations. Flexibility and problem-solving skills are crucial for managing unforeseen challenges, and good leadership—even without a formal managerial role—helps create an engaged team.

Key facts about gardening business managers without a managerial hierarchy

• Education level: High school vocational training or college programs
• Work environment: Outdoors, seasonal, and physically demanding
• Typical work form: Self-employed or small business owner
• Demand: 360 available jobs within the profession
• Gender differences: Women earn 92% of men's salaries

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years in the role of gardening business manager, there are opportunities to develop the business with new areas such as organic production, display gardens, or direct sales. With experience, consulting or training assignments may also become relevant. The forecast from the Employment Service indicates that there is no clear assessment for this specific role due to limited data, but within the gardening profession, there are 360 available jobs, indicating some demand for the skill set. The profession is especially suitable for those who want to combine entrepreneurship with practical natural resource management.

Frequently asked questions about gardening business managers without a managerial hierarchy

• What does a gardening business manager without a managerial hierarchy earn?
  - The average salary is 29 300 SEK per month, with a highest salary of 30,300 SEK and a lowest of 28,000 SEK.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn 92% of what men do within the profession.
• What education is required?
  - High school vocational training in gardening or natural resource management is most common, sometimes supplemented with college or courses.
• Are there many job openings?
  - There are 360 available jobs according to the latest data.
• What is the work environment like?
  - The work environment is outdoor-based, physically demanding, and varies with the seasons.
• What are the future prospects?
  - No precise forecast exists, but demand remains stable.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Independence, initiative, and an interest in plants and leadership are key qualities.