Organizational consultant

What does an organizational consultant do? – Tasks and work environment

An organizational consultant works with analyzing, developing, and streamlining company and organization structures, processes, and work methods. The role often involves identifying problem areas, proposing improvement measures, and implementing new strategies to enhance the organization's ability to achieve its goals. The consultant collaborates closely with management and staff, leads workshops and training sessions, and carries out change projects. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace, varied workplaces, and a high demand for teamwork and analytical thinking. The work is often conducted on-site at client companies, but digital collaboration and office work are also common.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salaries for organizational consultants have shown a clear positive trend. In 2022, the average salary was 54,300 SEK per month, increasing to 55 500 SEK in 2023 and further to 58 400 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of nearly 7.5% during the period. The growth can be partly explained by increased demand for qualified organizational development in both private and public sectors, as well as a heightened awareness of the importance of effective work processes. The market has demonstrated steady growth, and technological developments have also contributed to higher skill requirements, positively influencing salaries. Gender pay gaps persist, with women earning 88% of what men earn in the profession.

Organizational consultant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 58 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (female): 42,600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (male): 46,400 SEK/month
• Highest salary (female): 92,000 SEK/month
• Highest salary (male): 79,500 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 351 SEK
• Women earn: 54 600 SEK/month (88% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 62 300 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming an organizational consultant usually involves higher education in fields such as economics, behavioral sciences, or human resources. Many also pursue further training or certifications in change management or project management. Practical experience from similar roles is highly meritorious and often a requirement for more advanced assignments.

• Bachelor's or master's degree (3–5 years): For example, in economics, HR, or psychology
• Certifications: Project management (PMP, PRINCE2), change management (Prosci, ACMP)
• Internships and trainee programs: Often advantageous at larger consulting firms
• Prerequisites: University eligibility, often work experience in a relevant field
• Courses and self-study: Possible in leadership, communication, and organizational development

Common benefits and compensation

Benefits for organizational consultants vary between employers, but common perks include occupational pension, wellness allowances, and flexible working hours. Other typical compensations include bonus schemes, extra vacation days, and access to training programs. Some firms also offer remote work options and company cars, especially among larger consulting companies.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the profession of organizational consulting is generally high, particularly in metropolitan areas where many large consulting firms operate. To stand out, specialized skills in change management, digitalization, or business development are often required. Challenges also include staying updated on new methods and tools, as well as building and maintaining a strong network of contacts. The industry is rapidly changing, demanding flexibility and the ability to manage complex change projects. Balancing multiple assignments and high client expectations can also be challenging.

Tips for those aspiring to become an organizational consultant

To succeed as an organizational consultant, it is beneficial to have strong analytical skills to identify connections and areas for improvement within organizations. A proactive and self-driven approach is important, as assignments often involve significant responsibility and varied working environments. Communication skills and responsiveness are crucial for collaborating with management and staff and driving change. Building a strong network, both within and outside your organization, increases opportunities for assignments and development. The ability to handle resistance and uncertainty is also vital, as change processes often raise questions and sometimes opposition. Continuously investing in skills development, such as courses in project management or change management, enhances competitiveness. Finally, curiosity and openness to new industries and working methods are advantageous, given the diversity of assignments in the profession.

Key facts about organizational consultants

• Educational level: University degree (bachelor's or master's)
• Work environment: Varied, often project-based and client-focused
• Demand: Moderate, unchanged forecast over 5 years
• Number of job openings: 758 (within the profession of management and organizational developers)
• Special competencies: Change management, project management, digitalization

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an organizational consultant, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as senior consultant, project manager, or team leader. Some choose to specialize in areas like digital transformation, HR development, or strategic management. Others continue as independent consultants or start their own consulting firms. According to the Swedish Employment Agency's forecast, the job market for management and organizational developers is expected to be balanced with moderate job opportunities, and demand is projected to remain unchanged over five years. Currently, there are 758 job openings in the profession, indicating good employment prospects for qualified candidates.

Frequently asked questions about organizational consultants

• What does an organizational consultant earn?
  - The average salary for an organizational consultant is 58 400 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become an organizational consultant?
  - Typically, a university degree in economics, HR, psychology, or similar is required.
• How has the salary development for organizational consultants looked over time?
  - Salary development has been positive in recent years, increasing from 54,300 SEK in 2022 to 58 400 SEK in 2024.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 54 600 SEK, which is 88% of men's salary of 62 300 SEK.
• What personal qualities are important for an organizational consultant?
  - Analytical ability, communication skills, responsiveness, and independence are especially important.
• What is the job market like for organizational consultants?
  - The job market is considered balanced, with approximately 758 job openings in the profession.
• What career options are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Senior consultant, project manager, team leader, or self-employed entrepreneur are common next steps.