What does a leisure director do? – Tasks and work environment
A leisure director is responsible for planning, developing, and coordinating leisure activities within municipalities, schools, or private organizations. Tasks often include strategic development, budget management, personnel leadership, and contact with community organizations, users, and other stakeholders. The role also involves evaluating and following up on the goals and results of activities, ensuring that activities and resources are adapted to the needs of the target groups. The work environment varies between office work and hands-on activities in the field, where collaboration with various professionals and societal actors is common.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, the salary for leisure directors has steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 43,200 SEK per month, rising to 44 700 SEK in 2023 and reaching 46 500 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 7.6% over the period. The salary development reflects an increased demand for qualified skills in planning and management of leisure activities, especially as municipalities and organizations impose higher standards for quality and efficiency. The increase can also be explained by more employers requiring higher education levels and documented experience, positively influencing salaries. The trend indicates that leisure directors are a professional group where market needs and competency requirements drive salary growth.
Leisure director salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (female, public sector, pre-secondary education)
- Highest salary: 60,200 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, doctoral degree)
- Hourly wage (average): 280 SEK/hour
- Women: 45 300 SEK/month
- Men: 48 800 SEK/month
- Women earn: 93% of what men do
Education and qualifications
To work as a leisure director, a higher education in pedagogy, leisure studies, sports, social sciences, or similar fields is usually required. Many employers also seek previous experience in leadership, project management, or work within community organizations. Practical knowledge in coordination and activity development is important, as well as good communication and administrative skills.
- Bachelor's degree in leisure studies, pedagogy, or social sciences (3 years)
- Additional courses in project management, economics, or leadership
- Internship or trainee position within municipality, school, or non-profit sector
- Experience in community organizations or previous work with activity development
- Good administrative ability and familiarity with digital tools
Many leisure directors work closely with both youth and adults, and the role often requires creative problem-solving to create inclusive and meaningful activities. It is common that the position involves collaboration with voluntary organizations and public actors, providing great variation and opportunities to influence community development at the local level.
Common benefits and compensations
Leisure directors are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and opportunities for professional development. Other common compensations include occupational pension, extra vacation days, and subsidized meals. Some employers also offer remote work options and participation in internal networks and training.
Competition and challenges
The job market for leisure directors is characterized by a balance between supply and demand, meaning there is neither an oversupply nor a shortage of qualified candidates. One of the biggest challenges is meeting high demands for activity development and efficient resource use, while the need for inclusive and quality leisure activities increases. More employers seek specialist skills and experience in project management, which can lead to increased competition for the most attractive positions. Regional differences occur, with larger urban areas often offering more opportunities. Digitalization, increased documentation requirements, and changing target group needs also impose new demands on flexibility and adaptability.
Tips for those who want to become a leisure director
To succeed as a leisure director, it is good to combine commitment to societal issues with strong organizational skills and a relationship-building approach. Building networks with associations and other actors requires initiative and good communication, while analytical ability helps develop the organization strategically. Being flexible and able to handle change is crucial, especially as the needs of the target groups shift quickly. It is recommended to engage in community work or internships already during studies, as experience from hands-on work provides valuable insight. Developing leadership and clear structures in work methods contribute to managing the many demands of the job. Finally, patience and perseverance are important, as development work is often long-term and requires time to produce results.
Key facts about the leisure director
- Education level: Bachelor's degree, often supplemented with leadership courses
- Work environment: Combination of office, fieldwork, and collaboration with multiple actors
- Work form: Usually full-time, often within the municipal sector
- Demand: Moderate, with 758 job openings within the profession
- Special skills: Project management, activity development, and communication
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a leisure director, opportunities open for more qualified roles such as operations manager, strategist, or development leader within the public or non-profit sector. Some choose to specialize in areas like youth activities, integration, or public health, while others move on to regional coordination or consultancy assignments. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, the outlook for planners and investigators is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with a balance between supply and demand for labor. There are a total of 758 job openings nationwide in this field, providing good employment prospects for those with the right skills and experience.
Frequently asked questions about leisure directors
- What does a leisure director earn?
- The average salary for a leisure director is 46 500 SEK per month, but the salary varies depending on experience, education, and sector.
- What education is required to become a leisure director?
- Usually, a bachelor's degree in leisure studies, pedagogy, social sciences, or similar is required.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 45 300 SEK, while men earn 48 800 SEK, meaning women earn 93% of men's salaries.
- What does the job market look like for leisure directors?
- The job market is considered balanced, with moderate opportunities and approximately 758 job openings.
- What are the duties of a leisure director?
- Responsibilities include planning, coordination, personnel management, and development of leisure activities, as well as collaboration with associations and other stakeholders.
- Are there career pathways within the profession?
- Yes, many advance to roles such as operations manager, strategist, or development leader after a few years in the profession.
