Cabinet Secretary

What does a Cabinet Secretary do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Cabinet Secretary functions as the highest-ranking civil servant at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and plays a central role in Sweden's diplomatic service. Tasks include leading and coordinating the department's work, overseeing daily operations, and assisting the Foreign Minister with strategic issues and international relations. The role also involves representing Sweden in important international contexts, participating in negotiations, and handling sensitive diplomatic matters. The work environment is distinctly office-based, fast-paced, with many meetings and high demands for integrity and discretion.

Salary Development Over Time

Cabinet Secretaries have seen a steady increase in salary over recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 102,400 SEK per month, which increased to 109 000 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 115 200 SEK, representing a salary growth of approximately 12.5% over three years. This positive trend can largely be explained by increasing responsibilities and the growing complexity of international work, as well as an overall strengthening of leadership salaries within the public sector. The demand for experienced leaders with deep diplomatic and legal expertise has also contributed to salary increases. The salary development for Cabinet Secretaries is thus stronger than the average for similar managerial positions in the public sector.

Cabinet Secretary Salary – Complete Overview

• Average Salary: 115 200 SEK/month
• Lowest Salary: 94,800 SEK/month (men), 108,400 SEK/month (women)
• Highest Salary: 175,300 SEK/month (men), 166,900 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly Wage: 693 SEK
• Gender Pay Gap: Women earn 99% of what men do (men: 115 800 SEK, women: 114 700 SEK)
• Regional Differences: Salary levels may vary slightly depending on location, but the position is generally based nationwide with a focus on Stockholm.

Education and Qualifications

The path to becoming a Cabinet Secretary is long and requires extensive education and many years of experience within public administration, diplomacy, or law. An academic degree is a basic requirement, often complemented by further training and high-level leadership experience. International experience and the ability to handle complex issues at the state level are particularly meritorious.

• Formal Degree: Law degree, political science, or equivalent education (at least 4 years)
• Further Education: Leadership courses, diplomatic training, international law
• Internship/Traineeship: Experience from diplomatic services or senior roles within the public sector
• Prerequisites: Documented leadership experience and good language skills, especially in English and French
• Tips for Selection: Engage early in international issues and seek internships within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or international organizations

Common Benefits and Allowances

Cabinet Secretaries typically have access to benefits such as extra vacation days, opportunities for wellness allowances, occupational pension, and insurance. In many cases, representation, travel, and further training are included as part of the position. Compensation for overtime or on-call duties occurs less frequently as the role is based on trust.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for the position of Cabinet Secretary is very fierce, as there are few positions and the requirements for experience and education are very high. The role involves quickly managing changing political conditions and working under significant pressure, sometimes with sensitive or classified matters. Challenges may also include high expectations for strategic leadership and the ability to communicate with various stakeholders both nationally and internationally. Success requires a combination of expert knowledge, social skills, and decision-making ability under time pressure.

Tips for Aspiring Cabinet Secretaries

To succeed as a Cabinet Secretary, it is beneficial to combine analytical ability with strong leadership and high diplomatic skill. Early engagement in international issues and political organizations can provide valuable experience, while good language skills open doors to more opportunities. Building a broad network within both the public and international sectors is crucial for reaching top positions. Precision and integrity are essential, especially when handling sensitive tasks and confidential information. Continuing education and staying updated on global events also enhance competitiveness. Persistence and resilience are personal qualities often highlighted as crucial for thriving and developing in this leadership role.

Key Facts about Cabinet Secretaries

• Education Level: Academic degree (law, political science, or equivalent)
• Work Environment: Office-based, often located in Stockholm
• Typical Working Arrangement: Full-time, trust-based working hours
• Demand: 175 available jobs within the profession (2024)
• Special Skills: Diplomacy, international law, and leadership

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years as a Cabinet Secretary, opportunities open for even higher managerial roles within the state, such as ambassador, director-general, or other senior positions within the Government Offices. Experience from the role is highly valued internationally, which can lead to assignments within the EU, UN, or other international organizations. Forecasts from the Employment Service show that competition for these top positions remains very tough, but demand for qualified leaders in public administration remains stable. The strong salary development and the increasing number of advertised positions in the profession indicate good future prospects for individuals with the right profile and experience.

Common Questions about Cabinet Secretaries

• What does a Cabinet Secretary earn?
  - The average salary is 115 200 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and sector.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn 99% of what men do within the profession.
• What education is required to become a Cabinet Secretary?
  - An academic degree in law or political science and experience in leadership and diplomacy are required.
• What is the work environment like?
  - The work environment is office-based, often fast-paced with high demands for discretion.
• What are the biggest challenges of the profession?
  - Handling complex international issues and working under time pressure are some of the major challenges.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The outlook is good for individuals with the right profile and experience, but competition is fierce.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a Cabinet Secretary?
  - The highest reported salary is 175 300 SEK and the lowest 94 800 SEK per month.