What does a recruitment manager do? – Tasks and work environment
A recruitment manager is responsible for leading and developing the entire recruitment process within companies and organizations. Tasks include creating job profiles, advertising vacancies, conducting screenings and interviews, as well as coordinating and following up on recruitment activities in close collaboration with managers and HR departments. Often, responsibilities also include employer branding and ensuring a positive candidate experience throughout the process. The work environment is usually office-based, with elements of digital tools and occasionally travel to different locations. The role requires good ability to manage multiple processes simultaneously and work under time pressure, especially in organizations with high recruitment activity.
Salary development over time
Salaries for recruitment managers have steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,000 SEK per month, rising in 2023 to 47 600. In 2024, the average salary has continued to grow to 49 900, representing an overall increase of approximately 8.5% over three years. This positive trend is linked to increased demand for qualified HR specialists and growing competition for talent across many industries. Additionally, the more strategic nature of recruitment work has contributed to raising the profession's status and salary levels. It should be noted that although salaries are rising, differences between genders and sectors still exist.
Recruitment manager salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 49 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 40,500 SEK/month
- Highest salary: 58,600 SEK/month
- Hourly wage (average): 300 SEK/hour
- Women: 49 100 SEK/month (93% of men's salary)
- Men: 52 900 SEK/month
- Regional differences: Varies between urban and rural areas, higher salaries in cities
Education and qualifications
To work as a recruitment manager, a post-secondary education in personnel, HR, behavioral sciences, or similar fields is usually required. Many employers prefer candidates with an academic degree and several years of experience in recruitment or HR-related roles. Certifications in recruitment and experience with various recruitment systems and testing tools are also advantageous.
- Post-secondary education: Human Resource Management, HR, behavioral sciences (3 years or more)
- Certifications: Courses in recruitment, testing methods, and selection processes
- Internships: Internships or trainee programs within HR/recruitment
- Prerequisites: Experience in recruitment or HR is often required
- Tips: Project management experience and familiarity with digital recruitment tools are advantageous
Working as a recruitment manager often involves acting as a vital link between the organization's strategic goals and candidates' expectations. The role therefore requires both business understanding and a genuine interest in people, making the profession varied and rewarding.
Common benefits and compensation
Among the most common benefits for recruitment managers are wellness allowances, occupational pensions, flexible working hours, and the possibility of remote work. Other common compensations include bonus schemes tied to recruitment targets, skills development, and sometimes extra vacation days. Benefits may vary depending on the employer and sector.
Competition and challenges
The profession of recruitment managers is characterized by a relatively balanced competition according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts. There are medium opportunities for employment, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. One of the biggest challenges is attracting and identifying the right candidates in a rapidly changing labor market, especially in shortage occupations. Additionally, continuous skills development in new digital tools and selection methods is required. Changing legislation and increased globalization also make the role more complex, demanding flexibility and adaptability from professionals.
Tips for aspiring recruitment managers
To succeed as a recruitment manager, it is beneficial to combine a structured approach with strong social skills. Being communicative and attentive aids in interviews and dialogues with candidates and colleagues. Flexibility is another important trait, especially when workload varies or unexpected challenges arise. Analytical skills are also valuable for evaluating selection methods and making informed decisions during recruitment. Staying updated on labor market trends and legislation provides an advantage. Ultimately, a genuine interest in people and development is key to thriving and succeeding long-term in the profession.
Key facts about Recruitment Managers
- Salary range: 40,500–58,600 SEK/month
- Average salary: 49 900 SEK/month
- Education level: Post-secondary education, often 3 years or more
- Gender difference: Women earn on average 93% of men's salary
- Job openings: 758 within the profession (May 2024)
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the role of recruitment manager, there are good opportunities to advance to more strategic positions, such as HR manager, talent acquisition manager, or specialist roles within employer branding and employer value proposition. Larger organizations may also offer pathways towards project management within HR or overarching personnel development. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast for HR and personnel specialists, the job market is expected to be balanced with moderate opportunities and unchanged demand over the next five years. Digitalization and continued focus on skills supply are expected to shape development within the profession.
Frequently asked questions about Recruitment Managers
- What does a Recruitment Manager earn?
- A recruitment manager has an average salary of 49 900 SEK per month.
- What does the salary range look like for recruitment managers?
- The lowest salary is 40,500 SEK and the highest is 58,600 SEK per month.
- Are there differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 49 100 SEK while men earn 52 900 SEK.
- What education is required to become a recruitment manager?
- Usually, a post-secondary education in HR, personnel, or behavioral sciences is required.
- What are the future prospects for the profession?
- The labor market is considered balanced with moderate opportunities for employment.
- What common benefits are offered?
- Benefits such as wellness allowances, occupational pensions, and flexible hours are common.
- How many job openings are there in the profession?
- There are approximately 758 job openings within the HR and personnel specialist field.
