Forest management manager

What does a Forest Management Manager do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Forest Management Manager is responsible for leading, planning, and developing forest care activities at both strategic and operational levels. Duties include creating long-term management plans, ensuring compliance with laws and environmental standards, as well as leading staff and coordinating efforts with contractors and authorities. The role requires a deep understanding of sustainable forestry, economics, and often workplace health and safety issues. The work environment is varied, involving both office work and field visits in forest settings, which demands flexibility and good physical condition.

Salary development over time

Salaries for Forest Management Managers have shown steady positive growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 54,500 kronor per month, increasing to 55 000 kronor in 2023 and further to 56 100 kronor in 2024. This increase represents an average salary growth of about 3% over three years. The trend can be explained by increased demand for qualified personnel in sustainable forestry, higher requirements for environmental expertise, and the need for leadership skills in a sector characterized by both technological and biological development. The shortage of experienced managers and specialists has also contributed to rising salaries. Regional variations may exist, but the overall trend is upward across the country.

Forest Management Manager salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 56 100 kr/month
• Lowest salary: 43,100 kr/month
• Highest salary: 64,000 kr/month
• Hourly wage (average): 337 kr
• Gender differences: Men 55 500 kr/month, women 53,000 kr/month (highest), 43,100 kr/month (lowest)
• Regional differences: Salary variations may occur depending on region and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as a Forest Management Manager, a post-secondary education in forest science, natural resource management, or related fields is usually required. In addition to theoretical knowledge, practical experience in forestry and leadership is often advantageous. Many employers also seek specialized courses in environmental management, workplace safety, and project management. Internships and trainee programs can be important steps toward a managerial role.

• Formal degree: Forest Master or Forest Scientist degree (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Courses in occupational health and safety, environmental certification, project management
• Internships: Recommended early work experience in forestry
• Prerequisites: High school education with a focus on natural resource management or equivalent
• Tips for choosing: Engagement in student associations and networking provide advantages

Common benefits and compensations

Benefits for Forest Management Managers often include a company car or car allowance, wellness contributions, extra vacation days, and pension contributions. Fieldwork may provide per diems, and opportunities for professional development through courses and further training are also common. Flexible working hours are typical in this profession.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Forest Management Manager is moderate to high, especially in regions with large forestry companies or government agencies. Challenges in the profession include rapid changes in legislation, environmental standards, and technology, which require continuous skill development. Leadership also involves balancing economic goals with sustainability requirements and personnel responsibilities. Digitalization of forestry adds further demands on technical understanding, while workplace safety and health must be prioritized in often complex organizations.

Tips for aspiring Forest Management Managers

To succeed as a Forest Management Manager, it’s beneficial to combine analytical skills with a genuine interest in sustainable development. Developing strong communication skills is crucial, as the role requires collaboration with colleagues and external stakeholders. Structured work methods facilitate planning and follow-up of forest care measures, while leadership and initiative are important for motivating and developing staff. Flexibility is an asset when unexpected problems arise in the field, and a solution-oriented approach helps manage complex situations. Actively seeking further education and networking within the industry also increases the chances of a successful career in forest management.

Key facts about Forest Management Managers

• Educational level: Post-secondary education, usually 3–5 years
• Work environment: Combination of office and outdoor work
• Experience requirements: Prior experience in forestry or related fields
• Demand: 175 job openings within the profession according to latest data
• Typical employment: Full-time, often with personnel responsibilities

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Forest Management Manager, opportunities exist to advance to senior management roles within larger companies, such as regional manager or operations director for forest management. Alternatively, specialization in areas like environmental certification, project development, or consulting on sustainable forestry is possible. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate continued steady demand for skills in forest care and management, especially as sustainability issues and digitalization become increasingly central. A growing number of job openings suggest good future prospects for both recent graduates and experienced managers in the sector.

Frequently asked questions about Forest Management Managers

• What is the average salary of a Forest Management Manager?
  - A Forest Management Manager has an average salary of 56 100 kronor per month.
• What education is required to become a Forest Management Manager?
  - Typically, post-secondary education in forest science or natural resource management, often 3–5 years.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 55 500 kronor and the highest salary for women is 53,000 kronor per month.
• What is the job market like for Forest Management Managers?
  - There is strong demand with 175 job openings within the profession according to recent statistics.
• What are the most common job duties?
  - Management of forest care efforts, personnel responsibilities, environmental work, and project coordination.
• What factors can influence the salary of a Forest Management Manager?
  - Factors such as education, experience, employment type, and region affect the salary level.
• What benefits can a Forest Management Manager receive?
  - Common benefits include company car, wellness contributions, extra vacation days, and professional development.