Head of Administration, County Council

What does a county council administrative manager do? – Responsibilities and work environment

A county council administrative manager is responsible for leading, developing, and coordinating activities within one or more departments. The role involves ensuring that operations are conducted efficiently, legally, and in accordance with political decisions as well as laws and regulations. Budget management, personnel, quality, and work environment are central aspects of the job, along with serving as the link between political leadership and operational managers. The work is often carried out in close collaboration with other management functions and external stakeholders, demanding strong leadership and communication skills. The work environment is typically office-based, with a fast pace and many parallel projects and processes to handle simultaneously.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for a county council administrative manager has shown both stability and variation. In 2022, the average salary was 70,200 SEK per month, increasing to 73 700 SEK in 2023. This increase corresponds to about 5%, reflecting higher demand for qualified managers in the public sector and increased responsibilities related to complex change management. In 2024, the average salary has slightly decreased to 72 900 SEK, possibly due to a combination of cautious salary increases in the public sector and a leveling off of demand. Overall, a high and competitive salary structure persists for the profession, where education and experience often positively influence salary growth.

County council administrative manager salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 72 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 50,000 SEK/month (men), 53,900 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 156,100 SEK/month (men), 131,700 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage (average): 439 SEK
• Women earn: 101% of what men do (women 73 200 SEK, men 72 700 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary based on the size and geographic location of the county council

Education and qualifications

To work as a county council administrative manager, a university degree is usually required, often in fields such as political science, economics, law, or healthcare administration. The position demands strong leadership skills and extensive experience in strategic work within the public sector or related fields. Many employers also value supplementary training in leadership and change management.

• Academic degree: Bachelor's or master's degree in relevant field (3–5 years)
• Leadership training: Courses in management or public administration
• Practical experience: Several years of managerial experience in the public sector
• Certifications: Additional qualifications in change management or project management are advantageous
• Prerequisites: Deep understanding of legislation and public administration

Common benefits and compensations

A county council administrative manager is often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible hours, and opportunities for remote work. Other common compensations can include extra vacation days, health insurance, and access to leadership development. Benefits vary between different county councils depending on size and collective agreements.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as a county council administrative manager is high, given the limited number of roles and extensive qualification requirements. Challenges in the role include balancing political decisions with operational needs, managing large personnel groups, and leading change initiatives in complex organizations. Expectations for strategic leadership and communicative responsibility are high, often requiring quick adaptation to changing laws and guidelines. Additionally, digitalization and process efficiency are becoming increasingly important, demanding continuous skills development and environmental scanning.

Tips for aspiring county council administrative managers

To succeed as a county council administrative manager, it is beneficial to be analytical and able to see the big picture, facilitating strategic decision-making. Good communication skills are essential, as the role involves dialogue with politicians and employees. Being open to change and flexible makes it easier to manage and lead development projects in a dynamic public environment. Experience in personnel management and a coaching leadership style contribute to achieving good results and motivated teams. Building networks within and outside the organization is valuable for understanding different perspectives and collaborating effectively. Finally, meticulousness and integrity are crucial, as the role often involves responsibility for large resources and complex decisions.

Key facts about county council administrative managers

• Education level: Academic degree, often at master's or magister level
• Work environment: Office-based with high pace and strategic responsibility
• Typical employment: Permanent, daytime hours
• Demand: 175 job openings (2024) within the profession
• Special skills: Leadership, public administration, change management

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a county council administrative manager, there are opportunities to advance to higher leadership roles, such as regional director or department head. Other career options include transitioning to government agencies, consulting within the public sector, or senior positions within private healthcare organizations. The outlook is considered favorable by the Employment Service, with ongoing demand for experienced leaders driven by increased requirements for quality, efficiency, and digitalization in public operations. However, demand is also influenced by economic cycles and political priorities, but expertise in change management and strategic governance is highly valued.

Frequently asked questions about county council administrative managers

• What does a county council administrative manager earn?
  - The average salary is 72 900 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and education.
• What are the requirements to become a county council administrative manager?
  - An academic degree and several years of managerial experience in the public sector are usually required.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 73 200 SEK and men 72 700 SEK, which means women earn 101% of men's salaries.
• What is the job market like for county council administrative managers?
  - There is continued high demand, with 175 job openings within the profession according to current statistics.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 156,100 SEK and the lowest 50,000 SEK per month, depending on education, sector, and experience.
• What benefits can be included in the position?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible hours, and leadership development.
• How does education level affect salary?
  - Higher education, especially at the research level, can lead to significantly higher salaries within the profession.