Regional Manager, Swedish Forest Agency

What does a Regional Manager at the Forest Agency do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A regional manager at the Forest Agency has overall responsibility for operations within a geographic region and leads both strategic and operational work related to forest management, environmental issues, and regulatory enforcement. The role includes managing larger personnel groups, budget responsibility, developing operational processes, and collaborating with internal and external stakeholders. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace, high variation, and demands the ability to prioritize between long-term planning and quick decision-making. The regional manager often has an office-based workplace but travels regularly within the region to meet employees, partners, and other authorities.

Salary Development Over Time

The salary of a Regional Manager at the Forest Agency has shown a relatively stable development over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 70,200 SEK per month, increasing to 73 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the salary has adjusted slightly downward to 72 900 SEK. The total increase from 2022 to 2024 is approximately 3.8%, in line with other managerial roles in the public sector. The decrease between 2023 and 2024 may be explained by changes in demand, restructuring, or a higher proportion of regional managers with less experience. Salary levels are also influenced by education, level of responsibility, and work experience. Despite these minor variations, the salary level remains high and competitive compared to similar leadership positions.

Regional Manager at the Forest Agency – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 72 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 50,000 SEK/month (men), 53,900 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 156,100 SEK/month (men), 131,700 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 439 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 101% of what men do (72 700 SEK/month for men, 73 200 SEK/month for women)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on the size and complexity of the region

Education and Qualifications

To work as a regional manager at the Forest Agency, a higher academic degree is usually required, often in forestry, natural resource management, or social sciences. Leadership and management experience are crucial, as well as familiarity with regulatory enforcement and complex regulations. Many regional managers also have further education in leadership or public administration.

• Academic degree: Forester, game manager, or similar (3–5 years)
• Leadership training: Courses or certifications in management and organization
• Previous experience: Several years of work within forest management or the public sector
• Internship/Trainee: Commonly participation in trainee programs or internships during studies
• Prerequisites: Documented leadership experience and good knowledge of forestry legislation

Common Benefits and Compensation

Regional managers at the Forest Agency are often offered competitive pension solutions, wellness benefits, occupational pensions, and sometimes company cars. Flexibility in working hours and remote work options are available, along with access to professional development and training for leaders.

Competition and Challenges

The job market for regional managers at the Forest Agency is relatively competitive, with a limited number of available positions compared to the number of qualified candidates. The requirements for education, experience, and leadership skills are high, making the recruitment process often extensive. One of the biggest challenges is managing changing societal demands and political decisions affecting operations. Additionally, the ability to lead change processes and quickly adapt to new regulations and digital tools is essential. For those with the right profile, there are good opportunities for development and advancement within the agency.

Tips for Aspiring Regional Managers at the Forest Agency

To succeed as a regional manager at the Forest Agency, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with clear leadership and a strong societal commitment. Gaining experience within the public sector and forest management provides a solid foundation, while education in leadership increases chances of standing out in recruitment. Good communication skills and diplomacy are crucial for handling complex stakeholder dialogues and building trust internally and externally. Being open to change and capable of driving development work are also important qualities, especially when operations are influenced by new legislation or digitalization. A strategic mindset helps prioritize the right issues, and the ability to inspire and motivate employees is key to achieving organizational goals. Finally, being open to lifelong learning and continuous skill development is advantageous to stay relevant in the role.

Key Facts about Regional Manager at the Forest Agency

• Education level: Higher education in forestry or social sciences
• Work environment: Office-based with travels within the region
• Work form: Regulatory enforcement and personnel management
• Demand: 175 available jobs in the profession according to latest matching
• Special skills: Forest legislation, leadership, and public administration

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years as a regional manager at the Forest Agency, opportunities open for more senior leadership roles, such as division head, operations manager, or national-level positions within the agency. Some choose to move into strategic roles in other authorities, interest organizations, or larger companies within the forestry sector. According to the Employment Service, the future outlook is stable, with continued demand for experienced and well-educated managers in management and planning. Digitalization and increased sustainability requirements are expected to create new skill needs and development opportunities within the profession.

Frequently Asked Questions about Regional Manager at the Forest Agency

• What does a Regional Manager at the Forest Agency earn?
  - The average salary is 72 900 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 439 SEK.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 73 200 SEK and men 72 700 SEK, which means women earn 101% of men's salary.
• What are the requirements to become a regional manager at the Forest Agency?
  - Higher education in a relevant field, documented leadership experience, and good knowledge of forest legislation and regulation enforcement.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Demand is stable with 175 available jobs according to recent statistics.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a regional manager?
  - The highest salary is 156,100 SEK and the lowest is 50,000 SEK.
• What are the job responsibilities?
  - Strategic and operational leadership, budget responsibility, personnel management, and stakeholder collaboration.
• What benefits are offered?
  - Pension solutions, wellness contributions, professional development, and sometimes company cars.