Theater Secretary

What does a theatre secretary do? – Tasks and work environment

A theatre secretary plays a central role in theatre administration and often acts as the hub between management, production, and staff. Responsibilities include coordinating meetings, managing correspondence, planning events, and supporting theatre directors and artistic leaders. Document management, budget follow-up, and sometimes personnel administration are often part of the job description. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace and demands for flexibility, as multiple projects and productions run simultaneously. The theatre secretary usually works in an office, but proximity to the artistic environment and stage production is typical for the role.

Salary development over time

The salary development for theatre secretaries has been positive in recent years, showing steady growth. In 2022, the average salary was 37,800 SEK per month, increasing to 40 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 40 900 SEK in 2024. This increase corresponds to about 8.2% over two years, which is slightly above the average for similar administrative professions. The trend can be explained by increased demand for qualified administrators in the cultural sector and a growing focus on project management and operational support. The salary increase also reflects some competition for experienced theatre secretaries, especially in larger cities where cultural institutions are more numerous and the job market more dynamic. The gender pay gap is relatively small, with women earning 98 % of men's salaries, indicating a relatively equal pay structure within the profession.

Theatre secretary salary – a complete overview

• Average salary: 40 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,000 SEK/month (male, public sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 48,900 SEK/month (female, private employee, post-secondary education <3 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 246 SEK
• Women earn: 40 800 SEK/month (98 % of men's salary)
• Men earn: 41 600 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary variations may occur, with somewhat higher wages in metropolitan areas.

Education and qualifications

To work as a theatre secretary, a post-secondary education in administration, economics, or culture is usually required, often supplemented with experience from similar roles. Practical skills in project management and communication are especially valuable, as well as good IT skills. Many employers also view experience from theatre or other cultural activities positively.

• Post-secondary education: Typically 2–3 years in administration, economics, or culture
• Short courses and certifications: Project management, IT systems, event planning
• Internship or traineeship: Experience from the cultural sector or similar administrative roles
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, preferably with a focus on administration or culture
• Recommended: Engagement in student theatre, voluntary cultural projects, or similar activities

Common benefits and compensations

Theatre secretaries are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and remote work options. Other common compensations include subsidized cultural events, professional development, and occupational pension schemes. Larger theatre institutions may also provide advantageous insurance packages and extra vacation days.

Competition and challenges

The profession of theatre secretary has a relatively balanced labor market. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, opportunities for employment are moderate, with around 758 job openings nationwide within the profession. Challenges include managing a broad workload, often with tight deadlines and multiple projects. Flexibility and prioritization skills are crucial for success, especially during intensive production periods. Competition for the most attractive positions is high, particularly at larger institutions and in metropolitan regions, requiring experience and specialized knowledge within the cultural sector.

Tips for aspiring theatre secretaries

To succeed as a theatre secretary, it is good to combine meticulousness with a high service orientation, as the role requires attention to detail and the ability to interact with many different people. Being proactive facilitates project and event planning, while strong organizational skills are essential for managing multiple tasks. Communication skills are vital for collaboration with colleagues and external parties, and flexibility is necessary when unforeseen situations arise. Digital competence, especially in administrative IT tools, is highly valued and can provide a competitive edge. Finally, a genuine interest in theatre and cultural environments is a great asset, contributing to both job satisfaction and understanding of the organization's needs.

Key facts about theatre secretaries

• Average salary: 40 900 SEK/month
• Salary range: 31,000–48,900 SEK/month
• Education level: Post-secondary education of 2–3 years recommended
• Work environment: Office-based with close ties to theatre production
• Demand: Moderate, approximately 758 job openings nationwide

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a theatre secretary can advance to more qualified administrative roles, such as administrative coordinator, cultural project manager, or senior assistant at larger institutions. Some choose to specialize in areas like finance, HR, or event planning. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's latest forecast, the job market is expected to remain balanced with unchanged demand over the next five years, offering good opportunities for those with the right skills and experience. Further education or specialization within the cultural sector can also open up development opportunities. The demand for qualified administrators within theatre and performing arts is expected to remain stable, especially in metropolitan areas and larger institutions.

Frequently asked questions about theatre secretaries

• What is the average salary for a theatre secretary?
  - The average salary for a theatre secretary is 40 900 SEK per month.
• Are there large wage differences between men and women?
  - Women earn approximately 98 % of men's salaries within the profession, indicating small gender gaps.
• What education is required to become a theatre secretary?
  - Post-secondary education in administration, economics, or culture of 2–3 years is recommended.
• What does the job market look like for theatre secretaries?
  - The job market is considered balanced with moderate opportunities and around 758 job openings nationwide.
• What are the most common job duties?
  - Coordination, administration, meeting planning, and support for management and production.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a theatre secretary?
  - The highest salary is 48,900 SEK/month and the lowest is 31,000 SEK/month.
• Is career progression possible within the profession?
  - Yes, opportunities include roles such as project manager or administrative coordinator.