Health strategist

What does a health strategist do? – Tasks and work environment

A health strategist works on developing, coordinating, and implementing strategies to promote health at individual, group, and organizational levels. Tasks often include analyzing health status, creating action plans, conducting training sessions, and monitoring health-promoting activities. The role involves close collaboration with management, HR, and other support functions, especially in larger organizations and municipalities. The work environment is usually office-based but can also include site visits, lectures, and workshops. The health strategist often acts as a link between research, practice, and organizational development with a focus on long-term results.

Salary development over time

The salary for a health strategist has shown a clear positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,926 SEK per month, increasing to 34 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary amounts to 35 000 SEK, representing an approximate 9.6% increase over the three-year period. This salary growth can partly be explained by increased awareness of the importance of strategic health work within organizations, as well as higher educational requirements and specialized skills. The market is also influenced by competition for qualified individuals and rising demand for workplaces with structured health initiatives. Despite the increase, there are still differences between genders and variations depending on sector and educational background.

Health Strategist salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 35 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,800 SEK (female, private sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 44,600 SEK (male, public sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Average salary men: 36 500 SEK
• Average salary women: 34 600 SEK
• Women earn: 95% of what men do
• Hourly wage (average): 210 SEK
• Regional differences: Small, but metropolitan regions tend to offer slightly higher salaries

Education and qualifications

To work as a health strategist, a post-secondary education in health, public health, behavioral sciences, or similar fields is usually required. Many employers also value experience in strategic work and project management. The educational path can vary, but a bachelor's degree and supplementary courses in leadership, work environment, or change management are often advantageous.

• Formal degree: Bachelor's degree in public health, health education, or equivalent (3 years)
• Certifications: Additional training in work environment, leadership, or project management
• Internship: Internships or trainee programs within corporate health or public sector are recommended
• Prerequisites: High school diploma with specialization in social sciences or natural sciences
• Online courses: Opportunities for further education via distance or online platforms

Common benefits and compensations

Health strategists are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, remote work options, and occupational pension. Other common compensations include professional development, subsidized gym memberships, and company bikes. In some cases, extra vacation days and health insurance are also provided.

Competition and challenges

The profession of a health strategist faces significant competition, especially since there is currently a surplus of educated professionals in wellness consulting and health education nationwide. However, demand is expected to increase over the next five years according to the Employment Service's forecast, which could create more opportunities in the future. One of the biggest challenges is demonstrating the tangible value of health initiatives and integrating health work into the organization's strategic processes. The health strategist often needs to work proactively and persuasively to gain support for their proposals. Additionally, tasks can span many areas, requiring broad skills and the ability to prioritize. Regionally, opportunities vary, with larger cities offering a bigger job market and somewhat higher salaries.

Tips for those aspiring to become a health strategist

To succeed as a health strategist, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a genuine interest in people and organizations. Being communicative facilitates collaboration across different professional groups and makes it easier to embed health initiatives at multiple levels. A structured approach is essential for managing both strategic and operational questions simultaneously. Furthermore, being proactive and willing to take initiative in discussions about organizational development is valuable. Keeping up to date with new research and legislation enhances credibility. Flexibility and the ability to see the big picture are qualities highly appreciated by employers. Lastly, networking is a key success factor, so seize every opportunity to connect within the health sector and related fields.

Key facts about the Health Strategist

• Educational level: Bachelor's degree in public health or similar (3 years)
• Work environment: Office-based with some field activities
• Work form: Project-based and cross-sector collaboration
• Demand: Limited opportunities today, increased demand expected within 5 years
• Job openings (2024): 237 within the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a health strategist, opportunities open up to advance to roles such as operations developer, HR specialist focusing on work environment, or manager of health promotion initiatives. Other career options include consulting within corporate health or managing larger change projects in the public sector. According to the Employment Service's forecast, opportunities for work as wellness consultants and health educators are currently limited, but demand is expected to grow over the next five years. This could make the job market more favorable in the future, especially for those with broad skills and experience in strategic work. Regionally, the largest markets are in major cities and regional capitals, where specialized roles may also exist.

Frequently asked questions about the Health Strategist

• What is the average salary of a Health Strategist?
  - A health strategist has an average salary of 35 000 SEK per month.
• How large are the salary differences between men and women?
  - Women earn on average 34 600 SEK, which is 95% of what men earn, with men earning 36 500 SEK.
• What education is required?
  - A bachelor's degree in public health, health education, or similar is recommended.
• Are there many job openings?
  - There are 237 job openings in Sweden in 2024.
• What career opportunities does a health strategist have?
  - Opportunities to advance to roles such as operations developer, HR specialist, or manager within health initiatives.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Demand is expected to increase over the next five years despite a current surplus of educated professionals.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, metropolitan regions generally offer slightly higher salaries than other parts of the country.