Business consultant

What does a business consultant do? – Tasks and work environment

A business consultant works with analyzing, developing, and improving the operations of companies and organizations. Tasks often include advising on business development, strategic decisions, change management, and project leadership. The consultant assists both private and public actors with identifying growth opportunities, finding new markets, optimizing processes, and implementing improvement measures. The work environment is mainly office-based, but the consultant may also visit clients or work digitally. The role is often characterized by variety, high pace, and a need for good collaboration skills, as many projects are carried out in teams or together with the client’s organization.

Salary development over time

The salary development for business consultants has been steadily positive in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,200 SEK per month, increasing to 44 700 SEK in 2023, a rise of about 3.5%. In 2024, the average salary has continued to rise and is now at 46 500 SEK, representing an additional increase of 4% compared to the previous year. This salary growth reflects a continued high demand for qualified consultants in business development and advisory roles. Factors such as increasing complexity in business, digitalization, and the need for change management skills contribute to driving up salaries. At the same time, competition for the most experienced consultants has increased, further boosting salary development.

Business consultant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (female, public sector, low education)
• Highest salary: 60,200 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage: 280 SEK/hour
• Women: 45 300 SEK/month (93% of men's salary)
• Men: 48 800 SEK/month
• Regional differences: No reliable data available

Education and qualifications

To work as a business consultant, an academic degree in economics, management, social sciences, or engineering is usually required. Many employers also value experience from the business sector, strong analytical skills, and project management experience. Further education and specialized courses in areas such as business development or strategy are advantageous, as are certifications in project management or management consulting.

• Formal degree: Bachelor's or master's in economics, engineering, or equivalent (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Examples include PMP, PRINCE2, or similar
• Industry experience: Internships or work in the private sector, public sector, or consulting firms
• Further education: Courses in change management, business development, strategy
• Prerequisites: Strong analytical and communicative skills

Common benefits and compensations

Business consultants are often offered benefits beyond base salary, such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, bonus programs, and flexible working hours. Opportunities for remote work, skills development, and extra vacation days may also be available, especially at larger employers and consulting firms. Company cars, mobile phones, and computers are common tools.

Competition and challenges

The profession of a business consultant is competitive, especially at entry level where many recent graduates seek positions at leading consulting firms. To reach the most attractive roles, a combination of academic credentials and practical experience from the business sector is often required. Challenges include high work pace, continuous skill development demands, and the ability to adapt to rapidly changing assignments. The role also involves managing complex client relationships and leading change processes, where resistance may occur. The ability to quickly familiarize oneself with new industries and work environments is crucial for long-term success.

Tips for aspiring business consultants

To succeed as a business consultant, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a strong interest in business development. Gaining experience from various industries and projects early on enhances problem-solving abilities and broadens competence. Good communication skills are vital for presenting analyses and leading change initiatives with clients. Being flexible and curious makes it easier to handle new challenges or rapid shifts. Additionally, being self-driven and proactive is advantageous, as the consulting role often involves a high degree of personal responsibility. Building a professional network and staying updated on industry trends are also important for creating long-term career opportunities.

Key facts about Business Consultant

• Educational level: Academic degree in economics, engineering, or social sciences
• Work environment: Office-based and project-oriented
• Work form: Teamwork and client assignments, often in varied environments
• Demand: Medium – 758 available jobs nationwide (2024)
• Special skills: Analysis, strategy, business development

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a business consultant, opportunities open to advance to senior consultant, project manager, or specialist within a specific sector. Some choose to become partners or start their own consulting firms. The Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast for planners and investigators, including business consultants, indicates moderate job opportunities and a balanced recruitment situation over the next five years. Demand is expected to remain unchanged, providing stable prospects both nationally and regionally. The consulting role thus offers good career development opportunities for those interested in business development and management.

Frequently asked questions about Business Consultant

• What does a Business Consultant earn?
  - The average salary is 46 500 SEK per month, with a variation between 30,200 and 60,200 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What are the gender differences in salaries for business consultants?
  - Women earn an average of 45 300 SEK and men 48 800 SEK, which means women earn 93% of what men do within the profession.
• What education is required to become a business consultant?
  - An academic degree in economics, engineering, or social sciences is recommended, often supplemented with courses in business development and project management.
• What is the job market like for business consultants?
  - There are 758 available jobs nationally within the profession, and demand is expected to be unchanged in the coming years, according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• What are the most common tasks for a business consultant?
  - Tasks include business development, strategic advice, process improvement, and project management for companies and organizations.
• Is it possible to work internationally as a business consultant?
  - Yes, many larger consulting firms offer international assignments and opportunities to work on foreign projects.
• What is the most common employment type for business consultants?
  - Most are permanently employed at consulting firms or work as self-employed on a project basis.