CEO Secretary

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

A CEO secretary works closely with the company's top management and functions as a central administrative resource for the CEO. Tasks include managing calendars and meeting schedules, preparing and documenting board and management meetings, writing minutes, organizing travel, and acting as a liaison between the CEO, other management, and external parties. The role requires high discretion, good organizational skills, and excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. The work is usually office-based and involves a fast pace where flexibility and problem-solving skills are crucial to handle quick changes and shifting priorities.

Salary development over time

CEO secretaries have experienced stable salary growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,800 SEK per month, increasing to 40 200 in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 40 900, representing a total increase of approximately 8.2% over the three-year period. The salary development has been slightly stronger than inflation, indicating continued demand for the profession and a certain appreciation of the role in line with increased complexity and responsibility. Market demands for digital competence and service-oriented work have likely also contributed to the salary increase, especially in larger companies and organizations where the role is crucial for management efficiency.

CEO secretary salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 40 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,000 SEK/month (male, government sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 48,900 SEK/month (female, private employee, post-secondary education <3 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 246 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 98 % of men's salary (women: 40 800 SEK, men: 41 600 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on location, but the greatest variation is seen between the public and private sectors.

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a CEO secretary usually involves post-secondary education in administration, economics, or similar fields. Many employers also require documented experience of qualified administrative work and good IT skills. Additional merits can include courses in project management, business communication, or certification in the Office suite. Success in the role also requires high integrity and the ability to handle confidential information.

• Post-secondary education: YH or university, 2–3 years in administration/economics
• Courses & certifications: Office suite, project management, business communication
• Internship/trainee: Relevant internship or trainee programs are advantageous
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, preferably with a focus on economics or administration
• Tips: Work experience in qualified administration is highly valued

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to the base salary, CEO secretaries often receive benefits such as wellness allowances, pension contributions, subsidized lunches, extra vacation days, and sometimes bonuses linked to company performance. Access to flexible working hours, remote work options, and training for skill development are also common, especially in larger companies or organizations.

Competition and challenges

The competition for roles as a CEO secretary is moderate, with a balance between demand and supply according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast. Increased digitalization demands higher technical competence and the ability to quickly adapt to new tools and working methods. Another challenge is that workload can be uneven and sometimes very high, especially around board meetings or major corporate events. The ability to handle stress and work proactively is therefore crucial. Extensive experience and specialization can provide competitive advantages and access to more qualified assignments.

Tips for those aspiring to become a CEO secretary

To succeed as a CEO secretary, it is good to combine thoroughness with a strong service focus and the ability to work independently. Developing good organizational skills makes it easier to manage many tasks simultaneously and prioritize correctly under pressure. Flexibility and adaptability are important traits, as the workday can often change quickly. It is also wise to invest time in building strong IT skills and staying updated on new digital tools. Being communicative and attentive facilitates collaboration with management and colleagues. Finally, discretion and integrity are essential, as the role often involves handling sensitive information. Showing engagement and initiative increases the chances of development and taking on more responsibility.

Key facts about CEO secretaries

• Average salary: 40 900 SEK/month
• Salary range: 31,000–48,900 SEK/month
• Education level: Post-secondary education in administration/economics
• Work environment: Office-based, often in a fast-paced setting near management
• Demand: Moderate, approximately 758 job openings in the profession

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a CEO secretary, it is common to move on to more specialized roles, such as executive assistant, administrative manager, or project leader in administration. Some choose to develop towards HR administration or work as coordinators for management teams. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, demand for executive secretaries and CEO assistants is moderate and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The balance between supply and demand offers good employment opportunities, especially for those who are flexible and keep up with new administrative tools. Opportunities for advancement within the company are often good, especially in larger organizations where the role is central to management work.

Frequently asked questions about CEO secretaries

• What does a CEO secretary earn?
  - The average salary for a CEO secretary is 40 900 SEK/month, with a range between 31,000 and 48,900 SEK/month.
• What education is required to become a CEO secretary?
  - Usually, post-secondary education in administration, economics, or similar, along with experience of qualified administrative work.
• Are there gender differences in salary for CEO secretaries?
  - Yes, women earn approximately 98% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What are the future prospects for CEO secretaries?
  - Demand is considered moderate, and the forecast is unchanged over the next five years.
• What personal qualities are important for a CEO secretary?
  - Discretion, organizational skills, flexibility, and good communication are key qualities.
• What is a typical work environment for a CEO secretary?
  - Office-based and often close to management, with a high pace and varied tasks.
• How much is the hourly wage for a CEO secretary?
  - The average is 246 SEK/hour for hourly workers.