CEO, in agriculture, agricultural pets, without chief hierarchy

What does a CEO in agriculture – tasks and work environment

A CEO in agriculture focusing on livestock and without a management hierarchy is often responsible for both daily operations and long-term strategic decisions on the farm. The role includes tasks such as animal husbandry, finances, staff planning (if employees are present), purchasing of feed and equipment, as well as contact with authorities and partners. The work environment is mainly practical and varied, with work both indoors in stables and outdoors on the farm, often under changing weather conditions. The role entails great responsibility for animal welfare and the quality of production, while administrative and financial matters are handled continuously.

Salary development over time

The salary for a CEO in agriculture and livestock farming without a management hierarchy has shown moderate increases over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 27,200 SEK per month, which increased to 28 400 SEK in 2023 and has remained unchanged since then, including in 2024. This development corresponds to an increase of approximately 4.4% between 2022 and 2023, but salary levels have stagnated thereafter. The leveling off may be due to a combination of steady demand and a labor market characterized by many part-time positions and a large but stable need for workforce within the sector. The salary level is also influenced by educational background and the size of the workplace.

CEO in agriculture – comprehensive salary overview

• Average salary: 28 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,000 SEK/month (female, private sector, high school education 3 years)
• Highest salary: 32,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education max 2 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 171 SEK/hour
• Women’s salary as % of men’s: 94 % (27 800 SEK/month compared to 29,700 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: Information unavailable

Education and qualifications

For the CEO role in livestock farming, a high school education in agricultural programs, often supplemented with practical experience in animal husbandry or farm operation, is typically required. Formal higher education requirements are rare, but further training in economics, animal care, or entrepreneurship can be advantageous. Personal qualities such as initiative, leadership, and problem-solving skills are highly valued.

• High school education: Natural Resource Program, specializing in agriculture (3 years)
• Practical experience: Work with animal husbandry and farm management
• Additional courses: Business economics, animal health, work environment
• Certificates: Possible additional qualifications in animal husbandry or machinery operation
• Prerequisites: Interest in animals and agriculture, sense of responsibility

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for a CEO in livestock farming without a management hierarchy often include on-farm accommodation, work clothes, mobile phones, and in some cases company cars or tractor allowances. Opportunities for further training and participation in industry fairs may also be available. Holiday pay and pension contributions usually follow collective agreements or individual contracts.

Competition and challenges

The job market for CEOs in livestock farming is characterized by high demand and a stable need for skilled workers. At the same time, part-time work is common, which can make it difficult to recruit for full-time positions. Challenges include balancing practical work with administrative responsibilities, managing seasonal variations, and external factors affecting production. Competition for the most attractive positions can be fierce, especially in regions with many large farms. Digitalization and new regulations increase demands for technical skills and adaptability.

Tips for those wanting to become a CEO in livestock farming

To succeed as a CEO in livestock farming, it is beneficial to develop a strong sense of responsibility and decision-making ability, as the role often involves working without immediate supervision. Practical problem-solving skills are crucial, and flexibility is important to handle unexpected events in animal husbandry. Building good routines around finances and documentation can facilitate administrative work. Investing in further education in animal health, technology, and environmental issues is recommended to stay updated. Social skills and clear communication are valuable, especially when interacting with authorities, partners, and potential colleagues. Finally, resilience and the ability to work during periods of high workload are key factors for long-term success.

Key facts about CEOs in livestock farming

• Average salary: 28 400 SEK/month
• Salary range: 27,000–32,500 SEK/month
• Gender difference: Women earn 94 % of men's salaries
• Work environment: Practical, varied, and often outdoor-based
• Future prospects: Great opportunities for employment, stable demand

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a CEO in livestock farming, there are opportunities to develop further within agricultural entrepreneurship, start your own business, or manage larger farms with more employees. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast for the group of breeders and caretakers of livestock, the job market is good with many opportunities and stable demand over the next five years. However, the recruitment situation is affected by many working part-time, which can pose challenges for employers seeking full-time staff. Digitalization, increased environmental awareness, and sustainability requirements will lead to new skill demands in the future. Currently, there are 360 job openings in the profession.

Frequently asked questions about CEOs in livestock farming

• What does a CEO in agriculture, livestock farming, without a management hierarchy earn?
  - The average salary is 28 400 SEK per month, with a range between 27,000 and 32,500 SEK.
• What are the salary differences between women and men?
  - Women earn an average of 27 800 SEK and men 29,700 SEK, which means women earn 94 % of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a CEO in livestock farming?
  - High school education in natural resource programs, supplemented with practical experience, is most common.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Job opportunities are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain stable over the next five years.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Reliable information about regional salary differences for this profession is lacking.
• What are common job tasks?
  - Animal care, financial management, purchasing, administration, and contact with authorities.
• Is part-time work common?
  - Yes, many in the profession work part-time, which can affect salary and working conditions.