Chief of Staff, State Administration

What does a department head in government administration do? – Duties and work environment

A department head in government administration is responsible for coordinating and leading strategic support to agency management. The role involves ensuring that the organization's overall goals are met, leading the department's work, and advising the director-general or agency head. Tasks often include planning, follow-up, security work, communication, legal issues, and crisis management. The environment is often characterized by high pace, complex issues, and close collaboration with other managers and experts within the agency. The work is mainly office-based and requires high integrity, analytical skills, and experience handling confidential information.

Salary development over time

The salary for a department head in government administration has shown some variation over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 70,200 SEK per month, increasing the following year to 73 700 SEK in 2023, which represents about a 5% increase. In 2024, the average salary has slightly decreased to 72 900 SEK, which may be explained by changes in management structure, new hires, or retirements. Despite this slight decline, the profession remains highly ranked in salary among government leadership roles. Market demand for qualified leaders in the public sector, combined with increased requirements for governance and transparency, has contributed to maintaining high salary levels over time.

Department head in government administration salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 72 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (man): 50,000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (woman): 53,900 SEK/month
• Highest salary (man): 156,100 SEK/month
• Highest salary (woman): 131,700 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 439 SEK
• Women earn: 101% of men's salary (73 200 SEK vs 72 700 SEK)

Education and qualifications

To become a department head in government administration, a university degree in fields such as political science, law, economics, or social sciences is typically required. Many employers also seek several years of experience in qualified management or coordination roles, preferably from the public sector. Additional training in leadership, project management, and administrative law is often advantageous.

• Academic degree: Political science, law, or economics, at least a bachelor's level (3 years)
• Leadership training: Courses in strategic leadership and organizational development
• Experience: Several years of work experience in qualified roles within the public sector
• Certifications: Project management (e.g., PRINCE2, PMP) can be advantageous
• Prerequisites: Documented ability to lead and coordinate complex operations

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for department heads in government administration include extra vacation days, pension contributions often exceeding those in the private sector, wellness allowances, and opportunities for flexible working hours and remote work. Occupational pension and health insurance are common, as well as subsidized lunches and professional development opportunities.

Competition and challenges

The competition for roles as a department head in government administration is intense, as these are highly qualified positions with great responsibility. Challenges often involve balancing political demands with long-term operational goals, leading change initiatives, and managing crises while maintaining security and legality. Changes in legislation and increased digitalization requirements mean the role is constantly evolving. Additionally, there are high demands for crisis management and rapid adaptation to societal changes. Many employers seek leaders who are both strategic and pragmatic, capable of building strong teams and fostering trust within the organization.

Tips for aspiring department heads in government administration

To succeed as a department head in government administration, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with pragmatic leadership and strong communication abilities. Proactively building networks and understanding the agency’s strategic challenges improves decision-making. The ability to prioritize and delegate is essential, especially during stressful periods when many issues demand quick responses. High integrity and the ability to handle sensitive information are also central, as the role often involves access to confidential matters. Those who are solution-oriented and curious about societal development have good opportunities to grow and thrive. Continuously furthering education and staying updated on administrative law and leadership is a concrete way to strengthen one's position in the job market.

Key facts about department heads in government administration

• Average salary: 72 900 SEK/month
• Salary range: 50,000–156,100 SEK/month
• Education requirements: Academic degree (political science, law, economics)
• Work environment: Office-based, high pace, strategic responsibility
• Demand: 175 job openings in the current profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a department head in government administration, career opportunities include roles such as director-general, division head, or other strategic leadership positions within the public sector. For those seeking broader experience, working as a consultant in organizational development or taking on leadership roles in larger municipal or regional administrations is possible. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, demand for qualified management and planning executives remains high, especially with increasing demands for efficiency and digitalization. Those combining broad leadership experience with specialist skills in areas such as crisis preparedness or law have particularly good future prospects.

Frequently asked questions about department heads in government administration

• What is the salary of a department head in government administration?
  - The average salary is 72 900 SEK/month, but it can vary between 50,000 SEK and 156,100 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become a department head?
  - An academic degree in political science, law, or economics, along with leadership experience in the public sector, are common requirements.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 101% of men's salaries in the profession.
• What does the job market look like for department heads?
  - There is continued strong demand, with 175 job openings within the profession according to recent data.
• What are the biggest challenges in the role?
  - Balancing political and operational demands, leading change initiatives, and managing crises and confidentiality.
• What benefits are common?
  - Extra vacation days, occupational pension, wellness allowances, and flexible work options.
• How large is the salary spread?
  - The salary spread is large, with the lowest at 50,000 SEK/month and the highest at 156,100 SEK/month.