Project manager, business development

What does a project manager within business development do? – Tasks and work environment

A project manager within business development is responsible for initiating, driving, and following up on development projects aimed at strengthening the company's market position. Tasks often include analyzing markets, identifying growth opportunities, coordinating cross-functional teams, and ensuring projects are completed according to set goals and budgets. The role requires close dialogue with management, clients, and various departments, as well as systematic work to evaluate and improve processes. The work environment is primarily office-based and characterized by a high pace, rapid changes, and demands for structured project management.

Salary development over time

The salary for project managers within business development has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 54,300 SEK per month, which increased to 55 500 SEK in 2023 and further to 58 400 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of about 7.5% during the period. Drivers behind the salary growth include the increasing demand for project managers with strategic skills and experience in digitization, as well as many employers competing for talent with the right educational background and leadership experience. Despite this positive trend, clear gender pay gaps still exist, with women earning 88% of men's salaries in the profession.

Project manager, business development salary – full overview

• Average salary: 58 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 42,600 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 92,000 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, data unavailable)
• Hourly wage (average): 351 SEK
• Women earn: 54 600 SEK/month (88% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 62 300 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Varying, but higher salaries are often in metropolitan regions

Education and qualifications

Project managers within business development usually have an academic background in economics, engineering, or management. The role often requires both formal education and practical experience in project management, preferably with additional certifications in the field. Success also depends on strong analytical skills, leadership abilities, and understanding of business strategy.

• Formal degree: Bachelor's or master's in economics, engineering, or management (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Examples include PMP or PRINCE2
• Internship/Trainee: Meritorious in business development or project management
• Prerequisites: Often experience in leadership or project work
• Self-study/online: Courses in agile methods, digitization, or change management

Common benefits and compensation

Common benefits for project managers within business development include occupational pension, wellness allowance, bonuses, extra vacation days, and sometimes performance-based bonuses linked to project results. Many employers also offer flexible working hours, remote work options, and opportunities for skills development through courses and conferences.

Competition and challenges

The competition for roles as project managers within business development is relatively high, especially in metropolitan regions where many companies seek strategic leaders. Challenges in the profession include managing complex projects with many stakeholders, adapting to rapid market changes, and balancing budget requirements with innovative solutions. Additionally, the role requires effective communication across organizational levels and navigation between different business areas. For those looking to develop, continuous skills updating and proactive change management are essential.

Tips for aspiring project managers within business development

To succeed as a project manager within business development, it is beneficial to combine analytical sharpness with strong communication skills. Demonstrating initiative and quickly identifying business opportunities gives an advantage. It is also important to work systematically and be solution-oriented to handle multiple projects and complex challenges. Leadership skills and the ability to inspire teams are crucial for driving development forward. Building networks, both internally and externally, opens up new opportunities and collaborations. Flexibility and adaptability facilitate navigating rapidly changing market conditions. Finally, continuous further education and staying updated on new methods and tools in project management pay off.

Key facts about project managers within business development

• Educational level: Academic degree, often in economics or engineering
• Work environment: Office-based, often high pace and many contact points
• Demand: 758 job openings within the profession (May 2024)
• Gender differences: Women earn 88% of men's salaries
• Work arrangements: Common with both permanent positions and project-based employment

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the role of project manager within business development, opportunities open to advance to managerial roles, such as business development manager, program leader, or senior positions within strategy and innovation. The Swedish Public Employment Service forecasts that opportunities within management and organizational development are medium-sized and that demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The job market is balanced, and competition is stable, providing good opportunities for those with the right skills and experience to establish and grow in the profession.

Frequently asked questions about project managers within business development

• What does a project manager within business development earn?
  - On average, a project manager within business development earns 58 400 SEK per month.
• How do salary differences between men and women look?
  - Men have an average salary of 62 300 SEK, while women earn 54 600 SEK, meaning women earn 88% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a project manager within business development?
  - Most often, a university degree in economics, engineering, or management is required, along with experience in project management.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the employment opportunities are medium-sized and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, bonuses, extra vacation days, and the possibility of remote work.
• How has salary development been in recent years?
  - The average salary has increased from 54,300 SEK in 2022 to 58 400 SEK in 2024, a rise of approximately 7.5%.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, higher salaries are often found in metropolitan regions compared to smaller towns.