Management Leader IT

What does an IT Service Manager do? – Tasks and Work Environment

An IT Service Manager is responsible for leading, managing, and developing the management of the organization's IT systems and applications. Tasks often include planning and prioritizing IT management initiatives, budgeting, resource planning, and ensuring that systems support business objectives. The role involves close collaboration with IT specialists and business representatives, where communication between technology and business is central. The work environment is primarily office-based, often in larger organizations or government agencies, where the Service Manager works in teams and handles multiple projects and management objects simultaneously.

Salary Development Over Time

The salary for IT Service Managers has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 48,800 SEK per month, rising to 50 600 in 2023. For 2024, the average salary has increased further to 52 600, representing an approximate 7.8% increase over three years. This development reflects the high ongoing demand for qualified IT managers, especially as digitalization accelerates in both private and public sectors. Salary increases can also be explained by increased requirements for skills and experience, as well as a competitive job market where many leave the profession and recruitment difficulties persist. The forecast indicates that salary levels will remain high in the future as the role becomes increasingly business-critical.

IT Service Manager Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 52 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 46,200 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, high school education)
• Highest salary: 59,400 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage (average): 316 SEK
• Men's average salary: 53 200 SEK/month
• Women's average salary: 51 600 SEK/month
• Women's share of men's salary: 97%

Education and Qualifications

To work as an IT Service Manager, a post-secondary education in systems science, computer engineering, or similar fields is usually required. Many employers also seek several years of experience in IT-related work, preferably in leadership roles. In addition to formal education, certifications in project management and service management, as well as good knowledge of business development and communication, are valued.

• Post-secondary education: Systems science, computer engineering, or similar (3 years or more)
• Certifications: ITIL, PRINCE2, or equivalent
• Work experience: Several years in IT or management roles
• Prerequisites: Basic IT skills, project or team leadership
• Additional courses: Communication, change management, business development

Common Benefits and Compensation

As an IT Service Manager, generous benefit packages are often offered, including pension schemes, wellness allowances, and flexible working hours. Opportunities for remote work, further education, and bonus and incentive systems may also be included, especially within larger organizations and consulting firms.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for roles as an IT Service Manager is intense, as the role requires a combination of technical expertise, leadership ability, and business understanding. The job market is characterized by recruitment difficulties, especially for the most experienced candidates. At the same time, many leave the profession, creating a paradoxical situation where supply and demand are constantly shifting. Challenges for individuals often include staying updated on technological changes, managing complex projects, and balancing demands from various stakeholders. The role also involves significant responsibility for critical business systems, demanding resilience and prioritization skills.

Tips for Aspiring IT Service Managers

To succeed as an IT Service Manager, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with good communication skills, as the role requires conveying complex information to different audiences. Gaining experience in both technology and business development provides a solid foundation, while leadership training and certifications in ITIL or project management increase employability. A structured approach makes managing multiple projects and priorities easier, and the ability to collaborate and build trust is crucial for driving change. Engagement in continuous learning and staying updated on new technologies is important, as is being solution-oriented and flexible in the face of rapid changes in technology and organization.

Key Facts about IT Service Managers

• Education level: Post-secondary degree (systems science, computer engineering, or similar, 3+ years)
• Work environment: Office-based, often in larger organizations or government agencies
• Typical working hours: Full-time, often with options for remote work
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
• Special skills: Leadership, ITIL, project management, communication

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years as an IT Service Manager, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as IT Director, Business Developer, Project Manager for larger digitalization projects, or IT governance strategist. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service forecast, job opportunities are very large across the country, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over five years. Despite many leaving the profession, recruitment difficulties persist, indicating a stable and long-term demand. For those wishing to broaden their skills, roles in IT architecture, change management, or consulting can be natural next steps.

Common Questions about IT Service Managers

• What does an IT Service Manager earn?
  - An IT Service Manager has an average salary of 52 600 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and employer.
• What education is required to become an IT Service Manager?
  - Usually, a post-secondary education in systems science, computer engineering, or similar, along with work experience.
• Are there gender pay differences for IT Service Managers?
  - Yes, women earn on average 97% of what men do in the profession.
• What are the future prospects for IT Service Managers?
  - The forecast indicates great opportunities for employment and continued stable demand nationally.
• What are the most common benefits for IT Service Managers?
  - Pension schemes, wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and remote work options are common benefits.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for IT Service Managers?
  - The highest salary is 59,400 SEK and the lowest 46,200 SEK per month, depending on gender, education, and position.