CEO, with chief hierarchy

What does a CEO with managerial hierarchy do – tasks and work environment

A CEO with managerial hierarchy holds ultimate responsibility for the company's overall management and strategic direction. The role involves making critical decisions, leading the executive team, and ensuring organizational goals are met. Tasks include developing business strategies, managing budgets, overseeing operations, and representing the company to the board, owners, and external stakeholders. The work environment is often office-based with a high pace and demands on availability, which can mean intensive work, travel, or long days.

Salary development over time

For the profession of CEO with managerial hierarchy, salaries have developed steadily but with some variations in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 90,100 SEK per month, which decreased slightly to 87 800 SEK in 2023. Subsequently, the salary increased significantly to 92 100 SEK in 2024, representing an increase of just over 4.9% from the previous year. This trend can partly be explained by increased competition for experienced leaders and a greater focus on performance-based compensation in the business sector. The demand for qualified CEOs with documented leadership experience also pushes up salary levels, especially in larger or rapidly growing companies. At the same time, salary variation is large depending on the company's size, industry, and region.

CEO with managerial hierarchy salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 92 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 59,400 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 117,000 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 554 SEK
• Women: 95,500 SEK/month (104% of men's salary)
• Men: 91 400 SEK/month

Education and qualifications

To become a CEO with managerial hierarchy, a higher academic degree is usually required, often at master's level or higher. Many have backgrounds in economics, engineering, law, or management, supplemented with leadership training and extensive work experience. Experience in leading larger organizations and managing complex business processes is often a requirement.

• College or university degree: Usually a master's or higher (4–5 years)
• Leadership training: Executive programs, MBA, or equivalent
• Previous leadership experience: Several years in senior roles
• Industry-specific certifications: For example, in finance, board work, or project management
• Internships and trainee programs: Common in larger companies

Common benefits and compensation

In addition to a high base salary, compensation packages often include bonuses, company cars, pension contributions, and health insurance. Other common benefits are stock options, wellness allowances, and opportunities for extra vacation days or flexible working hours. In some cases, educational allowances and advisory services may also be included.

Competition and challenges

The competition for CEO positions with managerial hierarchy is very high, as the number of available positions is limited and requirements for experience and competence are extensive. Many employers prioritize proven success in leadership and the ability to handle rapid changes, which makes recruitment processes lengthy and demanding. Challenges in the role include high responsibility, constant environmental scanning, and the need to make quick decisions. Additionally, CEOs are expected to handle media statements, internal conflicts, and complex stakeholder relationships. The role also involves personal exposure and demands on availability outside regular working hours.

Tips for those aiming to become a CEO with managerial hierarchy

To succeed as a CEO with managerial hierarchy, it is good to build broad competence early in both finance and leadership. Demonstrating initiative and engagement in previous roles increases trust for greater responsibility. Communication skills are crucial for building trust both internally and externally, so practicing presentation and negotiation techniques is wise. Structured problem-solving and analytical thinking facilitate handling complex business situations, while flexibility and adaptability help navigate an ever-changing environment. Building a strong network, both within and outside one's industry, can open doors to new career opportunities. Finally, resilience and stress tolerance are important qualities to cope with the high pace and demands of the role.

Key facts about CEOs with managerial hierarchy

• Salary range: 59,400–117,000 SEK/month
• Education level: College/university, often master's or higher
• Gender difference: Women have on average higher salaries than men (104%)
• Work environment: Office-based, often fast-paced with high responsibility
• Job openings in the profession: 175 positions (our database)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a CEO with managerial hierarchy, there is often an opportunity to take on larger companies, international corporations, or board assignments in other organizations. Some continue their careers as senior advisors, investors, or entrepreneurs. The labor market forecasts indicate continued high competition for positions but stable demand for experienced leaders, especially in sectors with strong growth or transformation needs. The role is constantly evolving and requires ongoing skills development to meet new demands within digitalization and sustainability.

Frequently asked questions about CEOs with managerial hierarchy

• What does a CEO with managerial hierarchy earn?
  - The average salary is 92 100 SEK per month, but the salary range is broad depending on experience and sector.
• What education is required to become a CEO with managerial hierarchy?
  - Usually, a university or college degree at master's or doctoral level, along with extensive leadership experience.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women have an average salary that is 4% higher than men in this profession.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The number of positions is limited, but demand for experienced leaders remains stable, especially in growth sectors.
• What benefits are common for a CEO with managerial hierarchy?
  - Bonuses, company cars, pension contributions, stock options, and health insurance are common benefits.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a CEO with managerial hierarchy?
  - The highest reported salary is 117,000 SEK/month (female, private sector, doctoral education), and the lowest is 59,400 SEK/month (male, high school education).
• What is the work environment like for a CEO?
  - Usually office-based, fast-paced, with high responsibility and sometimes travel or long working hours.