Business advisor

What does a corporate advisor do? – Tasks and work environment

A corporate advisor works with analyzing, developing, and guiding companies in financial and strategic matters. The role often involves advising companies on investments, capital structure, risk management, and business development. Tasks vary depending on the company's size and industry but typically include meetings with company executives, preparing reports, financial analyses, and presenting recommendations to management or the board. The work environment is usually office-based with a high pace, tight deadlines, and a need for precision and analytical thinking. Corporate advisors often work in teams but must also be able to take significant responsibility for client projects.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for corporate advisors has been clearly positive. In 2022, the average salary was 66,800 SEK per month, which increased to 68 500 SEK in 2023 and further to 73 100 SEK in 2024. This represents a salary increase of approximately 9.4% over the period, with a particularly strong rise in the last year. This development can partly be explained by increased demand for qualified advice in the financial sector, and employers competing for expertise as the business landscape changes and becomes more complex. The trend indicates that specialist knowledge and experience are valued higher, benefiting salary growth in the profession.

Corporate advisor salary – a complete overview

• Average salary: 73 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 47,200 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 76,800 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 440 SEK
• Male salary: 76 100 SEK/month
• Female salary: 66 300 SEK/month
• Women’s salary as a percentage of men’s: 87%

Education and qualifications

To work as a corporate advisor, a post-secondary education in economics, finance, or business administration is usually required. Many employers also seek specialized knowledge or experience from the industry, especially within banking, finance, or corporate management. A three-year university degree is often the basic requirement, but further education and certifications in financial analysis or advisory services can increase competitiveness. Internships or trainee programs at larger banks and financial institutions are common pathways into the profession.

• Formal degree: Bachelor's in economics/finance (3 years)
• Further education: Master's (1–2 years), certifications in finance and advisory services
• Internship/trainee: Recommended for building networks and experience
• Prerequisites: Good analytical skills, interest in economics and business
• Courses: Financial analysis, business economics, law, business development

Common benefits and compensation

Corporate advisors are often offered competitive benefits beyond base salary, such as occupational pension, health insurance, and wellness allowances. Bonus or commission systems are common, especially at larger companies or within banking, where performance-based pay can constitute a significant part of the total salary. Other benefits include flexible working hours, remote work opportunities, and further training.

Competition and challenges

The job market for corporate advisors is characterized by moderate competition and a balanced recruitment situation. Demand for qualified advisors is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, according to the Employment Service for related professions. The profession requires continuous professional development to stay updated on changing regulations, market trends, and digital tools. High workload and the need to deliver tangible results under time pressure are challenging for many. At the same time, the role is attractive among economists, making competition for the most desirable positions noticeable, especially in metropolitan areas.

Tips for aspiring corporate advisors

To succeed as a corporate advisor, it is beneficial to combine analytical sharpness with good communication skills and business acumen. Building a solid theoretical foundation in economics and finance and seeking internships or part-time jobs during studies that provide industry insight are important. Being attentive and able to quickly understand different companies’ challenges is key to building trust with clients. Networking and ongoing skills development, such as participating in relevant industry seminars, enhance chances of standing out in recruitment processes. Initiative and a solution-oriented approach are appreciated by employers, as is the ability to handle stressful situations with focus. A successful corporate advisor is often also a good team player and skilled negotiator.

Key facts about corporate advisors

• Education level: Bachelor's in economics/finance (minimum 3 years)
• Work environment: Office-based, often high-paced and project-oriented
• Demand: Moderate opportunities, balanced recruitment situation
• Typical employment: Full-time, sometimes with bonus/commission
• Special skills: Financial analysis, business development, advisory services

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a corporate advisor, opportunities open for more specialized roles, such as senior advisor, team leader, or head of business development. Some choose to further their education and work as analysts, investment advisors, or advance to leadership positions within banking and finance. Forecasts from the Employment Service show that the job market for financial analysts and investment advisors is stable, with moderate opportunities and unchanged demand over five years. The number of available jobs in the profession is currently 758, indicating good prospects for qualified applicants. The role also serves as an excellent stepping stone to other business-related roles and consultancy assignments.

Frequently asked questions about corporate advisors

• What is the average salary of a corporate advisor?
  - The average salary is 73 100 SEK per month.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a corporate advisor?
  - The highest salary is 76,800 SEK and the lowest is 47,200 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 76 100 SEK and women 66 300 SEK, which means women earn 87% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become a corporate advisor?
  - Usually, a bachelor's degree in economics or finance and industry experience are required.
• What are the future prospects for corporate advisors?
  - The job market is considered stable with moderate opportunities and unchanged demand according to the Employment Service.
• Which employers hire corporate advisors?
  - Mainly banks, financial companies, consulting firms, and larger companies needing financial advice.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Analytical skills, communication skills, initiative, and stress resilience are central qualities.