Gender equality strategist

What does a Gender Equality Strateg do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Gender Equality Strateg works to drive and develop organizations' efforts towards increased equality, non-discrimination, and diversity. The role often involves analyzing routines, policies, and organizational culture from a gender equality perspective, as well as developing action plans and training programs. The gender equality strategist functions as expert support on issues of discrimination and inclusion and collaborates closely with HR, management, and unions. The work environment is typically office-based, and tasks are performed both independently and in teams, often within the public sector, larger companies, or interest organizations. Responsibilities may also include monitoring legislation, collecting statistics, and reporting to management or authorities.

Salary Development Over Time

The salary for a Gender Equality Strateg has developed steadily in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,200 SEK per month, increasing to 44 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has continued to rise to 46 500 SEK, which corresponds to a salary increase of approximately 7.6% over three years. This development reflects an increased demand for strategic competence in gender equality issues, as well as employers placing greater importance on attracting and retaining specialists in the field. Salary increases can also be explained by higher education levels and greater responsibility in the role, especially in the public sector where many Gender Equality Strategists work. Despite these increases, some gender pay gaps remain within the profession.

Gender Equality Strateg Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (female, government sector, low education)
• Highest salary: 60,200 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, research education)
• Hourly wage (average): 280 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 93% of what men do (men: 48 800 SEK, women: 45 300 SEK)
• Regional differences: No significant variations reported

Education and Qualifications

To work as a Gender Equality Strateg, an academic degree is usually required, often in social sciences, law, political science, or similar fields. Many employers also seek experience in strategic work related to equality, diversity, or labor law. Internships or trainee programs within the public sector can be a pathway in, and further education in discrimination legislation or change management is often advantageous.

• Academic degree: Bachelor's or master's degree (3–5 years) in social sciences, law, or equivalent
• Courses/certifications: Specialization in discrimination law, gender mainstreaming, or leadership
• Internship/trainee: Relevant experience from internships within the public sector or non-profit organizations
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of Swedish labor law and discrimination legislation
• Tips for choosing: Engage in projects or networks working with diversity and equality issues

Common Benefits and Compensation

For Gender Equality Strategists, it is common to have collective agreement-based benefits such as occupational pension, parental leave pay, flexitime, and wellness allowances. Many employers also offer opportunities for professional development, extra vacation days, and sometimes remote work or favorable conditions for further education. In the public sector, vacation allowances and safety insurance can also be particularly attractive.

Competition and Challenges

The demand for Gender Equality Strategists is assessed as moderate, according to the Swedish Employment Agency's forecasts for the profession. The recruitment situation is characterized by balance, meaning there is neither an oversupply nor a shortage of qualified candidates. Challenges often lie in the role requiring both strategic insight and deep understanding of legislation and organizational development. Competition for the most attractive positions can be fierce, especially in larger cities or within specific industries where gender equality work is prioritized. Additionally, Gender Equality Strategists need to stay constantly updated on legislative and normative changes to remain relevant and drive development forward.

Tips for Aspiring Gender Equality Strategists

To succeed as a Gender Equality Strateg, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a strong commitment to social issues and justice. Being communicative and pedagogical facilitates conveying complex issues within the organization or during training. Building networks and participating in forums on gender equality provide valuable contacts and insights into current issues. Experience in project management and change work is advantageous and enhances the ability to work strategically. Finally, patience and perseverance are required, as change efforts often take time and involve managing resistance constructively.

Key Facts About Gender Equality Strateg

• Education level: Academic degree, often in social sciences or law
• Work environment: Office-based, often within the public sector
• Work form: Project-based and strategic work
• Demand: Moderate, with a balanced recruitment situation
• Special skills: Discrimination legislation and change management

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years as a Gender Equality Strateg, career paths can lead to roles such as HR specialist focusing on diversity, leadership positions within organizational development, or consultancy in gender mainstreaming. Some choose to work with policy development at government agencies, while others advance to executive roles responsible for overarching strategies in sustainability and social responsibility. The forecast from the Swedish Employment Agency indicates that demand for Gender Equality Strateg and similar investigative roles is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with a continued balance between supply and demand in the labor market. The number of available jobs in the profession is stable, with 758 reported current positions nationwide.

Frequently Asked Questions about Gender Equality Strateg

• What does a Gender Equality Strateg earn per month?
  - The average salary is 46 500 SEK per month, but it can vary between 30,200 and 60,200 SEK depending on experience and education.
• What education is required to become a Gender Equality Strateg?
  - An academic degree, often in social sciences, law, or political science, is usually required.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 93% of what men do within the profession.
• What are the future prospects for a Gender Equality Strateg?
  - The demand is considered moderate, and the forecast is that the need will remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Analytical ability, strong communication skills, pedagogical talent, and perseverance are especially valuable.
• Which employers hire Gender Equality Strateg?
  - Mainly the public sector, larger companies, authorities, and interest organizations.
• What is the work environment like?
  - Office-based environment with elements of project work and cross-organizational collaboration.