What does an accounting manager with operational responsibility do? – Tasks and work environment
An accounting manager with operational responsibility leads and develops the finance department's work within accounting, reporting, and closing processes. The role involves ensuring that the company's accounting complies with laws and regulations, preparing annual reports, and driving improvement projects in financial processes. Tasks also include leading and coaching a team, collaborating with other departments, and providing strategic support to management in financial matters. The work environment is typically office-based, characterized by a high pace and demanding accuracy, deadlines, and confidentiality.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, the salary for an accounting manager with operational responsibility has increased significantly. In 2022, the average salary was 66,300 SEK, which rose to 67 900 SEK in 2023 and reached 71,700 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to an increase of approximately 8.2 % during the period. The positive trend is driven by increased demand for qualified economists, higher requirements for operational management, and a job market where competition for experienced leaders is palpable. Inflation and changing reporting requirements, along with the digitalization of financial work, have also contributed to pushing up salaries in the profession.
Many accounting managers have the opportunity to influence the company's strategic decisions, thanks to their central role in business financial management. This provides a unique insight into the entire organization’s development and creates valuable experience for future leadership roles.
Accounting manager – operational responsibility salary overview
- Average salary: 50 300 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 53,700 SEK (female, private employee, education < 3 years)
- Highest salary: 92,200 SEK (male, private employee, education ≥ 3 years)
- Hourly wage: 303 SEK
- Women: 48 100 SEK/month (89% of men's salary)
- Men: 54 000 SEK/month
- Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and labor market conditions.
Education and qualifications
To work as an accounting manager with operational responsibility, a post-secondary education in economics is usually required, often at college or university level. Practical experience in accounting, finance, and leadership is essential, along with good knowledge of relevant regulations and systems. Many employers also value certifications and experience in change management.
- Economics degree: Bachelor's degree (3 years) or master's (4–5 years)
- Certifications: Examples include Authorized Accountant or similar
- Practical experience: Several years of work experience in accounting and finance
- Leadership training: Meritorious for managerial roles
- System knowledge: Experience with financial systems and digital tools
Common benefits and compensation
Accounting managers are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, bonus programs, flexible working hours, and remote work options. Other common compensations include health insurance, professional development, and extra vacation days. Benefits vary depending on the employer and sector.
Competition and challenges
The competition for roles as an accounting manager with operational responsibility is intense, especially in metropolitan areas and larger companies. The shortage of experienced leaders in finance drives up salaries but also places high demands on skills development and adaptability. Digitalization, changing regulations, and increased automation require continuous training. The workload is often high during closing and reporting periods, requiring resilience and good prioritization skills.
Tips for aspiring accounting managers with operational responsibility
To succeed as an accounting manager with operational responsibility, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a strong interest in leadership and development. Building broad experience in accounting and financial management provides a solid foundation, while communication skills facilitate collaboration across different parts of the organization. Attention to detail and structured work are especially important when handling complex financial reports. Flexibility and willingness to learn new systems and methods are crucial in a rapidly changing industry. Showing initiative and taking responsibility for own projects can open doors to more advanced roles. Additionally, integrity and the ability to make independent decisions are highly valued in the profession.
Key facts about accounting managers with operational responsibility
- Education level: Post-secondary economics education (3–5 years)
- Work environment: Office-based, often in larger organizations
- Typical employment: Full-time, sometimes with personnel responsibility
- Demand: High, with 758 job openings in Sweden according to SSYK code
- Special skills: Accounting regulations, financial systems, leadership
Career paths and future prospects
After 3–5 years as an accounting manager with operational responsibility, there are good opportunities to advance to higher management positions within finance, such as CFO or finance director. It is also common to move into specialist roles within group accounting or auditing. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicate continued high demand for qualified economists, especially in larger companies and the public sector. Digitalization and increased requirements for operational management are expected to strengthen the need for experienced accounting managers in the future.
Frequently asked questions about accounting managers with operational responsibility
- What is the salary of an accounting manager with operational responsibility?
- The average salary is 50 300 SEK per month, but it can vary depending on experience, education, and employer.
- What education is required to become an accounting manager?
- Post-secondary education in economics, often at college or university level, along with several years of experience in finance.
- What are the gender differences within the profession?
- Women earn on average 48 100 SEK per month, which is 89 % of men's average salary.
- Are there many job openings for accounting managers?
- Yes, there are approximately 758 job openings in Sweden.
- What are the biggest challenges in the role?
- High pace, large demands for accuracy, and continuous skills development in digitalization and regulations.
- How has salary development changed over time?
- Salaries have increased by approximately 8.2 % over the past three years, driven by increased demand and higher skill requirements.
- Which industries hire accounting managers?
- Larger companies, audit firms, the public sector, and organizations with complex financial management.
