Business Secretary

What does a business development officer do? – Tasks and work environment

A business development officer often works within municipal or regional administration and plays a central role in promoting local or regional economic growth. Tasks include analyzing business needs, coordinating efforts between companies, authorities, and educational actors, as well as initiating and managing projects to improve the business climate. Advising entrepreneurs, participating in networks, and working with strategic plans for business development are also common. The work environment is mainly office-based, but meetings and site visits to companies and organizations are frequent. The pace can vary, but often requires flexibility and the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.

Salary development over time

The salary for business development officers has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,200 SEK per month, rising to 44 700 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has reached 46 500 SEK, which is approximately a 7.6% increase over the three-year period. This positive trend can largely be explained by increased demand for qualified development efforts within the public sector and a greater focus on business issues in municipalities and regions. Given the labor market balance and ongoing need for expertise in the area, salary growth is expected to remain stable in the coming years, although no major increases are forecasted according to current projections.

Business development officer 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: 280 SEK (based on 166 hours/month)
• Men's average salary: 48 800 SEK/month
• Women's average salary: 45 300 SEK/month
• Women earn: 93% of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as a business development officer, a university degree in economics, social sciences, political science, or similar fields is usually required. Many employers also value experience in project management, public administration, or business development. Practical experience and networking play a significant role, especially for those seeking career advancement within the field.

• Formal education: Bachelor's degree (3 years) in economics, social sciences, or similar
• Courses/certifications: Project management, public administration, business development
• Internships: Meritorious, especially within the public sector or business organizations
• Prerequisites: Upper secondary school diploma, often supplemented with work experience
• Specialization: Recommended to choose courses focusing on regional development and business issues

Common benefits and compensations

Business development officers in the public sector are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, and opportunities for professional development. Other common compensations include extra vacation days, subsidized lunches, and remote work options depending on the employer's policy.

Competition and challenges

The job market for business development officers is characterized by a balance, with the number of applicants matching the number of available positions. Challenges in the profession include staying updated on changes within the business sector, adapting efforts to political priorities, and managing projects with limited resources. Since the role often involves working at the intersection of the public sector and business, strategic oversight and operational skills are required. The increased digitalization of society also demands digital competence and the ability to work with new tools.

Tips for aspiring business development officers

To succeed as a business development officer, good communication skills and a genuine ability to build relationships are important, as much of the work involves close collaboration with companies and public actors. Being analytical and structured facilitates needs assessment and planning of initiatives. Flexibility is a key trait, given the varied tasks and the need for quick adjustments. Participating actively in networks and industry events helps build contacts and stay updated on current issues. Continual training in project management and business development provides an advantage, as does experience from both public and private sectors. Finally, a solution-oriented approach and a willingness to drive development in collaboration with others are highly valuable.

Key facts about business development officers

• Education level: Bachelor's degree is most common
• Work environment: Office-based with elements of fieldwork
• Work form: Usually full-time within the public sector
• Available jobs: 758 nationally within the profession
• Future prospects: Medium opportunities, forecast unchanged over 5 years

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a business development officer, opportunities include advancement to roles such as business manager, project leader for larger development projects, or strategist within regional development. Some also choose to work as consultants or within business organizations. The employment agency's forecast for planners and investigators, which includes business development officers, indicates medium opportunities and unchanged demand over the next five years. With approximately 758 available jobs nationwide, the labor market is considered stable with good prospects for those with the right skills and experience.

Common questions about business development officers

• What does a business development officer earn?
  - The average salary is 46 500 SEK per month, with variation between 30,200 and 60,200 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become a business development officer?
  - Usually, a bachelor's degree in economics, social sciences, or similar fields.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 93% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What is the job market like for business development officers?
  - The job market is considered balanced with medium opportunities and approximately 758 available jobs nationwide.
• What are the most common job tasks?
  - Tasks include business development, project management, advising, and collaboration between different actors.
• What benefits are usually offered?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, and professional development.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Common career paths include business manager, project leader, or strategist within the public sector.