Kanslichef, organisation, liten/lokal

What does a Chief of Staff in a small or local organization do – tasks and work environment

A Chief of Staff in a small or local organization is responsible for the daily operations of the organization's office and often acts as a hub between management, staff, and external contacts. Tasks include administration, financial management, personnel issues, and often supporting the board with documentation and minutes. In smaller organizations, the role is multifaceted, requiring flexibility and the ability to handle both strategic and operational tasks. The work environment is characterized by proximity to decision-making, varied workdays, and sometimes a high pace, especially during periods with meetings or larger events.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Chief of Staff in a small or local organization has shown stable and positive growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,800 SEK per month. In 2023, the average salary increased to 40 200 SEK, corresponding to a salary increase of about 6.3%. In 2024, the average salary continued to rise to 40 900 SEK, an increase of an additional 1.7% from the previous year. This trend reflects continued demand for qualified Chiefs of Staff and some adjustment for inflation and increased requirements for broad competence in administration and leadership. Although the salary increase has slowed somewhat in the past year, the profession remains at a competitive level compared to many other administrative leadership roles.

Chief of Staff in small organization salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 40 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,000 SEK/month (male, public sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 48,900 SEK/month (female, private sector, post-secondary education < 3 years)
• Hourly wage: 246 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 98% of what men do (women: 40 800 SEK, men: 41 600 SEK)
• Regional differences: Varies depending on organization size and sector

Education and qualifications

To work as a Chief of Staff in a smaller or local organization, a post-secondary education in areas such as administration, economics, or political science is usually required. Practical experience from similar roles in administration or leadership is highly meritorious, as the role often involves broad responsibility. Good communication skills and experience working independently are important qualities. Additional courses in personnel administration or project management can be very useful for success in the profession.

• Post-secondary education: Examples include university degrees in economics, administration, or political science (2–3 years)
• Courses/certifications: Personnel administration, project management, leadership
• Practical experience: Previous administrative work or managerial roles are often advantageous
• Prerequisites: Secondary school diploma, administrative skills, and IT proficiency
• Tips: Engage in associations or smaller organizations to build experience

Common benefits and compensations

For Chiefs of Staff in smaller organizations, benefits such as flexible working hours, extra vacation days, and wellness allowances are common. Other typical compensations include mobile phones, computers, and sometimes remote work options. In some cases, opportunities for professional development and participation in relevant conferences or networking events are offered.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Chief of Staff in smaller organizations is moderate and characterized by a balance between supply and demand. A challenge is that the role often requires broad competence and the ability to handle many different tasks simultaneously. Changes in the organization’s finances or leadership can quickly affect workload and responsibilities. It is important for Chiefs of Staff to be flexible and prepared to take on new responsibilities as needed. Digitalization and increased demands for documentation and transparency also raise higher requirements for technical and legal competence.

Tips for those aspiring to become a Chief of Staff in a small organization

To succeed as a Chief of Staff in a small organization, it is beneficial to have a genuine interest in both people and organizational development. Good organizational skills facilitate handling many tasks simultaneously, while strong communication skills are crucial for clarity with the board and staff. Being proactive and self-driven is appreciated, especially when identifying areas for improvement in administration. The ability to quickly familiarize oneself with new systems and routines is important, as is working in a structured manner under pressure. Lastly, integrity and a sense of responsibility are central, as the role often involves handling sensitive information and trust from the entire organization.

Key facts about Chief of Staff, organization, small/local

• Education level: Post-secondary education recommended
• Work environment: Often small teams and close contact with management
• Work form: Office-based, sometimes flexible/remote work
• Demand: 758 job openings nationwide within the profession (2024)
• Gender distribution: Small salary differences between women and men

Career paths and future prospects

After several years of experience as a Chief of Staff in a smaller organization, opportunities include advancing to larger offices, becoming an administrative manager, or moving into similar roles within larger companies or the public sector. Some Chiefs of Staff choose to specialize in areas such as HR, finance, or project management. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, the demand for executive secretaries and CEO assistants, including Chiefs of Staff in small organizations, is stable and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The number of available positions is relatively high, providing good opportunities for qualified individuals. Continued digitalization and increased demands for efficient administration may, however, change the role and make further skills development important in the future.

Common questions about Chief of Staff, organization, small/local

• What does a Chief of Staff, organization, small/local earn?
  - The average salary is 40 900 SEK per month, but the salary varies depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a Chief of Staff, organization, small/local?
  - The highest known salary is 48,900 SEK and the lowest 31,000 SEK.
• What education is required to become a Chief of Staff?
  - Post-secondary education in administration, economics, or political science is recommended, preferably combined with practical experience.
• What does the job market look like for Chiefs of Staff in smaller organizations?
  - Opportunities are considered moderate, and the balance between supply and demand is good according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn approximately 98% of what men do in the profession, indicating small salary differences.
• What common benefits are offered?
  - Flexible working hours, wellness allowances, extra vacation days, and sometimes remote work options are common.
• What are the career opportunities?
  - With experience, a Chief of Staff can advance to larger organizations or specialize in areas such as HR or finance.