What does a sales manager within a company do? – Tasks and work environment
A sales manager within a company is responsible for planning, leading, and following up on sales activities within an organization. The role involves developing and implementing strategies to achieve set sales goals, coaching and motivating the sales team, and analyzing market trends and customer behaviors. Tasks vary depending on the company's size and industry but often include budget responsibility, personnel management, and building long-term customer relationships. The work environment is often office-based but can also involve travel to clients or participation in trade shows and events.
Salary development over time
The salary for sales managers within companies has shown a clear upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,700 SEK per month, increasing to 49 600 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 51 300 SEK, representing a total increase of just over 9.8% over three years. This development reflects an increased focus on business development in the corporate sector and a growing demand for experienced sales leaders. The general salary trend in sales professions has also been influenced by higher educational and specialized requirements. Gender differences in earnings persist, as reflected in the salary statistics.
Sales manager, company salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 51 300 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 38,200 SEK/month (female, public sector)
- Highest salary: 61,500 SEK/month (male, private sector, education 3+ years)
- Hourly wage: 309 SEK
- Gender differences: Men 53 000 SEK, women 47 200 SEK (women earn 89% of men's salary)
- Regional differences: Data missing for specific regions, but salary levels are often influenced by whether the location is a major city or elsewhere in the country.
Education and qualifications
To work as a sales manager within a company, a post-secondary education in sales, economics, or marketing is usually required. Many employers prefer candidates with experience in sales and leadership, as well as good communication skills. Some workplaces offer internal training programs or trainee positions to develop leadership skills.
- Post-secondary education: For example, a university degree in economics, marketing, or sales (2–4 years)
- Certifications: Leadership courses, sales certificates, and project management training can be advantageous
- Internship/trainee: Common in larger companies
- Prerequisites: Several years of sales experience, preferably with personnel responsibility
- Self-study: Online courses in sales techniques and leadership are a supplement
Many sales managers within companies have backgrounds as successful salespeople and advance by taking on more responsibility and mentoring colleagues. The role often requires a balance between operational work and strategic thinking, making each day different depending on the company's needs and goals.
Common benefits and compensation
Sales managers within companies are often offered attractive benefits beyond the base salary. These can include performance-based bonuses, company cars, wellness allowances, pension contributions, and sometimes educational grants. In some cases, flexible working hours and remote work options are available, especially in larger companies.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as a sales manager within companies is relatively high, especially in metropolitan regions where many companies are established. Challenges may include constantly meeting sales targets, managing staff turnover, and adapting to changing market conditions. The demand for digital competence and understanding data analysis is increasing, as is the need to quickly switch between strategy and operational responsibility. Gender pay gaps and representation issues also pose challenges for the industry, despite ongoing efforts toward equality.
Tips for those who want to become a sales manager within a company
To succeed as a sales manager within a company, it is good to combine a business drive with strong communication skills and a coaching leadership style. Being analytical and able to interpret sales data provides better decision-making support and enhances team performance. Good organizational skills facilitate daily work, especially when coordinating multiple projects and goals. Flexibility and the ability to adapt quickly to new conditions are crucial in a changing industry. Building trust internally and externally is key to long-term business relationships. Leadership training and experience in managing others are valuable merits, and actively seeking feedback helps development in the role. A genuine interest in sales and seeing others' success as your own are personal qualities often associated with successful sales managers.
Key facts about sales managers within a company
- Average salary: 51 300 SEK/month
- Salary range: 38,200–61,500 SEK/month
- Gender pay gap: Women earn 89% of men's salary
- Work environment: Office-based, often with travel and high pace
- Number of job openings: Approximately 550 within the profession
Career paths and future outlook
After three to five years as a sales manager within a company, opportunities open to advance to roles such as sales director, business development manager, or even regional manager. Some choose to specialize in strategic sales or customer relationship management. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for corporate salespeople, the opportunities for employment are assessed as medium, and the recruitment situation is characterized by balance. Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, which implies stable future prospects but also a need for continuous skill development to stay competitive in the job market.
Frequently asked questions about sales managers within companies
- What does a sales manager earn in a company?
- A sales manager within a company has an average salary of 51 300 SEK per month, with a salary range between 38,200 SEK and 61,500 SEK.
- What are the gender differences in the profession?
- Men earn an average of 53 000 SEK and women 47 200 SEK, which means women earn 89% of men's salaries.
- What education is required to become a sales manager within a company?
- Post-secondary education in economics, marketing, or sales, along with several years of experience in sales and leadership, are common requirements.
- Are there many job openings for sales managers within companies?
- Yes, there are approximately 550 job openings within the profession.
- What are the future prospects for sales managers within companies?
- The outlook is stable with medium opportunities for employment and unchanged demand over the next five years.
- What benefits are common for sales managers within companies?
- Common benefits include bonuses, company cars, wellness allowances, pension contributions, and sometimes flexible working hours.
- What are the career opportunities after a few years?
- After a few years as a sales manager, there are opportunities to advance to sales director, regional manager, or business developer.
