Regional Manager, Swedish Transport Administration

What does a regional manager at the Swedish Transport Administration do? – Tasks and work environment

A regional manager at the Swedish Transport Administration is responsible for leading, coordinating, and developing the agency's operations within a geographical region. Tasks include overarching management of large infrastructure projects, road and rail, budget responsibility, personnel management, and strategic planning. The role also involves representing the agency in dialogues with external stakeholders such as municipalities, contractors, and other authorities. The work environment is often office-based with frequent meetings, regional travel, and a fast pace, where decision-making and handling complex issues are central.

Salary development over time

The salary for regional managers at the Swedish Transport Administration has shown stable growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 70,200 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 73 700 SEK, corresponding to about a 5% increase. In 2024, the average salary is 72 900 SEK, indicating a slight decrease compared to the previous year. This development can be explained by overall market changes, adjustments in collective agreements, and increased competition for qualified managers in the public sector. The demand for experienced leaders with good understanding of urban development and infrastructure has contributed to the high salary levels, although the growth rate has slowed somewhat in the recent year.

Regional manager at the Swedish Transport Administration – 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 (average): 439 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 101% of what men do (women: 73 200 SEK, men: 72 700 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data on larger differences are lacking, but metropolitan regions tend to offer slightly higher salaries.

Education and qualifications

To work as a regional manager at the Swedish Transport Administration, a relevant university degree is required, often in engineering, urban planning, economics, or similar fields. Extensive experience in leadership roles, preferably within the public sector or large projects, is common. Formal requirements may also include specific leadership training and the ability to manage complex organizations.

• Formal degree: Master's in engineering, social sciences, or economics (3–5 years)
• Leadership training: Recommended, often internally or externally certified
• Practical experience: Several years of managerial or project leadership experience
• Prerequisites: Documented experience in personnel and budget management
• Tip: Experience from the public sector and good knowledge of urban development processes are advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Regional managers at the Swedish Transport Administration are often offered competitive pension contributions, company cars or car allowances, wellness stipends, extra vacation days, and access to internal leadership programs. Benefits may also include flexible working hours and remote work options depending on operational demands.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a regional manager at the Swedish Transport Administration is high, with many qualified applicants and relatively few vacancies. The role requires a combination of strategic leadership, negotiation skills, and a deep understanding of infrastructure projects. A challenge is managing complex societal interests and political demands while maintaining cost efficiency. High expectations are placed on results, clear communication, and leading change initiatives over time. Changes in government budgets or political decisions can quickly impact working conditions.

Tips for aspiring regional managers at the Swedish Transport Administration

To succeed as a regional manager at the Swedish Transport Administration, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with clear leadership. Gaining early experience in project management and taking responsibility for larger teams provides valuable insight into upcoming challenges. Good communication skills are essential for engaging stakeholders and driving change, especially when many parties are involved. A strong societal commitment and understanding of infrastructure's role in society make it easier to motivate and prioritize. Flexibility and problem-solving are also important, as the workday often involves quick adjustments and decisions. Seeking mentorship from experienced managers can provide additional guidance and open new career paths.

Key facts about Regional Manager at the Swedish Transport Administration

• Education level: University degree, often in engineering or social sciences
• Work environment: Office-based with travel and high pace
• Work form: Full-time, often with managerial responsibility for larger teams
• Demand: 175 job openings within the profession according to current data
• Special skills: Leadership, project management, and urban development

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a regional manager at the Swedish Transport Administration, opportunities open to advance to central managerial roles within the agency or take on even larger responsibilities, such as division head or strategic advisor. Some move on to leadership positions in other government agencies or private consulting firms within infrastructure. The Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast indicates continued stable demand for qualified managers in urban development and the public sector, although top-level positions are limited. Skills in change management and digitalization are considered particularly valuable for the future.

Frequently asked questions about Regional Manager at the Swedish Transport Administration

• What does a regional manager at the Swedish Transport Administration earn?
  - The average salary is 72 900 SEK/month, with variation depending on experience and education.
• How has the salary development looked for regional managers?
  - Salaries increased by about 5% between 2022 and 2023 but decreased slightly in 2024.
• What education is required to become a regional manager?
  - Usually a university degree in engineering, social sciences, or economics, along with several years of managerial experience.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Women earn on average 101% of what men do within the profession.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Pension contributions, company cars, wellness allowances, and extra vacation days are common benefits.
• What does the job market look like for regional managers?
  - There are approximately 175 job openings within the profession according to current statistics.
• What career paths are available after working as a regional manager?
  - Opportunities include advancing to higher managerial roles or transitioning to other leadership positions within urban development.