Recruitment manager

What does a Recruitment Manager do? – Tasks and work environment

A Recruitment Manager works with planning, leading, and executing the entire recruitment process within an organization. This includes designing job profiles, advertising positions, conducting interviews, testing candidates, and ensuring the right person gets the right job. The role requires close collaboration with managers and other HR functions, as well as often liaising with external recruitment agencies. The work environment is typically office-based and characterized by a fast pace, where time pressure and deadlines are common. Digital tools and candidate management systems are central work tools, and the job demands good organization, communication, and confidentiality.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Recruitment Manager has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,000 SEK per month, rising to 47 600 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 49 900 SEK, which represents an increase of approximately 8.5% over three years. The driving factors behind this development include increased demand for HR and recruitment expertise, as well as general salary growth within the white-collar sector. A shortage of experienced specialists and high skill requirements further contribute to this positive trend. At the same time, a continued gender pay gap persists, influencing salary levels within the profession.

Recruitment Manager salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 49 900 SEK/month
• Salary range: 40,500–58,600 SEK/month
• Gender differences: Women earn 49 100 SEK (93 % of men's salary), men earn 52 900 SEK
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and employer

Education and qualifications

To become a Recruitment Manager, a post-secondary education in HR, personnel, or similar fields is usually required. Many employers also value experience in recruitment or personnel work, and specialized courses or certifications are often highly regarded. Practical experience, such as internships or trainee programs, can be crucial for securing your first job in the field. Proficiency in digital tools and systems is also an important part of the skill set.

• Post-secondary education: Bachelor's program in personnel, labor relations, or HR (3 years)
• Certifications/courses: Recruitment methodology, employment law, interview techniques
• Internship/Trainee: Internships in HR or recruitment are recommended
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, preferably with focus on social sciences or economics
• Digital skills: Experience with recruitment systems and digital work tools

Common benefits and compensations

Recruitment Managers are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, remote work options, occupational pension, and extra vacation days. Professional development, employee discounts, and access to benefit portals are also common. Bonus or performance-based compensation may be offered depending on the employer and industry.

Competition and challenges

The competition for roles as a Recruitment Manager is relatively high, especially in metropolitan areas where many seek attractive employers. The supply and demand balance makes the job market stable, but requirements for digital competence and experience with modern recruitment tools are increasing. A challenge is managing rapid changes in the labor market, such as new laws, digitalization, and changing candidate behaviors. Ensuring objectivity and diversity in the recruitment process is another key challenge. Additionally, high demands to deliver results under time pressure can create stress and necessitate strong self-leadership.

Tips for aspiring Recruitment Managers

To succeed as a Recruitment Manager, it’s good to combine analytical skills with strong social competence and meticulousness. Gaining experience through internships or part-time jobs in HR provides valuable insight into the profession’s demands and enhances competitiveness. Keeping up with industry developments and learning new digital tools facilitates adaptation to change. Good communication skills are essential for building trust and collaborating with candidates and managers. A structured work approach helps manage multiple recruitment processes simultaneously. Demonstrating curiosity and initiative is appreciated by employers and can lead to more advanced roles. Finally, integrity and the ability to make objective decisions are crucial traits for success in this role.

Key facts about Recruitment Manager

• Average salary: 49 900 SEK/month
• Salary range: 40,500–58,600 SEK/month
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 93 % of men’s salary
• Education level: Post-secondary education (3 years or more)
• Work environment: Office-based, fast-paced, digital tools

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Recruitment Manager, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as HR Specialist, HR Director, or Talent Acquisition Manager. Some choose to specialize in employer branding, skills development, or employment law. According to the Employment Service, the prospects for employment in the personnel and HR specialist field are medium, and demand is expected to remain stable over the next five years. The market is characterized by balance, with a steady need for competent Recruitment Managers. Currently, there are 758 job openings in the field, indicating continued demand for this expertise.

Common questions about Recruitment Manager

• What does a Recruitment Manager earn?
  - A Recruitment Manager has an average salary of 49 900 SEK per month, with a salary range between 40,500 and 58,600 SEK.
• What education is required to become a Recruitment Manager?
  - Post-secondary education in HR, personnel, or related fields is recommended, often at least three years.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 93 % of what men do within the profession.
• What is the job market like for Recruitment Managers?
  - Opportunities are moderate, and the market is characterized by balance according to the Employment Service.
• What benefits are common for a Recruitment Manager?
  - Common benefits include wellness allowances, flexible working hours, remote work, and occupational pension.
• What are the career paths after a few years in the role?
  - You can advance to roles such as HR Manager, specialist roles, or work with employer branding.
• What is the hourly wage for a Recruitment Manager?
  - The average hourly wage is 300 SEK for hourly-paid employees.