Organizational secretary, interest organization

What does an organizational secretary in an interest organization do – tasks and work environment

An organizational secretary in an interest organization is responsible for coordinating and administering activities within various types of membership and advocacy organizations. Tasks often include meeting planning, minute-taking, member communication, document management, and supporting the board and management. The role requires organizational skills, the ability to handle complex information, and good communication skills. The work environment is typically office-based, with elements of meetings, digital collaboration, and occasional high-paced periods during annual meetings or major events. The contact points are numerous, both internally and externally, which demands good collaboration skills and sometimes negotiation techniques.

Salary development over time

The salary level for an organizational secretary in an interest organization has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,200 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 44 700 SEK, representing a rise of about 3.5%. From 2023 to 2024, the average salary further increased to 46 500 SEK, an additional increase of 4%. Overall, the salary has grown by approximately 7.6% over three years. This positive trend is linked to increased demand for qualified administrative skills in civil society and higher requirements for education and responsibility in the role. Despite this increase, salary gaps between genders remain noticeable, with women earning on average 93% of men's salaries.

Organizational secretary, interest organization salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (woman, government sector, pre-university education)
• Highest salary: 60,200 SEK/month (man, municipal sector, postgraduate education)
• Hourly wage (average): 280 SEK/hour
• Gender difference: Women earn 93% of what men do (48 800 SEK/month for men, 45 300 SEK/month for women)
• Regional differences: Specific differences are lacking, but metropolitan areas tend to offer slightly higher salaries

Education and qualifications

To work as an organizational secretary in an interest organization, a university degree in fields such as political science, social sciences, or administration is usually required. Experience from association work, the non-profit sector, or similar roles is highly meritorious. In addition to formal education, practical skills in administration, digital tools, and communication are highly valued. Some employers also require courses in project management or association law.

• Formal education: Bachelor's degree (3 years) in social sciences, political science, or administration
• Courses: Association law, project management, economics
• Internship: Experience from non-profit sector or association work is advantageous
• Prerequisites: High school diploma and documented administrative experience
• Tips: Online courses in digital document management and member communication can give an advantage in recruitment

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to the base salary, benefits such as flexitime, wellness allowances, generous vacation policies, and sometimes remote work options are often offered. Some organizations also provide professional development, occupational pension, and extra vacation days for longer employment periods. Benefits vary between employers and sectors, but the work environment is often characterized by a value-driven and inclusive atmosphere.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an organizational secretary in interest organizations is moderate. According to the Employment Service’s forecast, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with a balanced recruitment situation. Challenges in the profession often involve managing complex regulations, many contact points, and periods of high workload, especially before major meetings and events. Digitalization and increased documentation requirements demand adaptability and technical skills. To stand out in the competition, experience with member organizations and a clear commitment to the organization’s purpose are advantageous.

Tips for those aspiring to become an organizational secretary in an interest organization

To succeed as an organizational secretary, it’s good to combine structure with a genuine interest in people and societal issues. Being meticulous facilitates handling protocols and formalities, while flexibility makes it easier to switch between different tasks. Engagement with the organization’s goals is important, as is good communication skills to build relationships with members and partners. Gaining early experience from volunteer work or association activities, preferably with administrative responsibilities, is recommended. Further education in project management or association law can provide an extra edge. Finally, initiative and the ability to work independently are highly valued qualities in the sector.

Key facts about organizational secretaries in interest organizations

• Educational level: A bachelor’s degree (3 years) is recommended
• Work environment: Office-based, often with flexible working hours
• Common employment types: Permanent or project-based employment
• Demand: 758 job openings within the profession (May 2024)
• Gender distribution: Women dominate the profession, but men have higher average salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an organizational secretary in an interest organization, career development can lead to roles such as secretary-general, operations manager, or project leader within the social sector. Experience from the role provides a solid foundation for work with strategic organizational development, policy work, or communication. The forecast from the Employment Service indicates that job opportunities are moderate and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The recruitment situation is considered balanced, meaning there is neither a shortage nor an oversupply of qualified candidates in the profession. For those wishing to specialize, opportunities also exist to work with education issues, member recruitment, or international collaborations within larger organizations.

Frequently asked questions about organizational secretaries in interest organizations

• What does an organizational secretary in an interest organization earn?
  - The average salary is 46 500 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become an organizational secretary?
  - Typically, a bachelor's degree in social sciences, administration, or a related field is required.
• What is the job market like for organizational secretaries?
  - Demand is considered moderate and stable over the next five years according to the Employment Service.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 93% of what men do within the profession.
• What are common job duties?
  - Administer meetings, record minutes, communicate with members, and support the board and management.
• Is remote work possible?
  - Yes, many organizations offer the possibility of remote work, especially after the pandemic.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 60,200 SEK and the lowest is 30,200 SEK, depending on education, sector, and experience.