Public relations and communications directors Salary
Median salary £72,020 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.
Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £72,000 after tax and National Insurance →
For public relations and communications directors, £72,887 is the typical (median) pay. That is well above the UK full-time median of £39,039 — +87% versus the national average.
About this role
Public relations and communications directors develop and lead an organisation's reputation management, media relations, internal communications and stakeholder engagement strategies. They manage communications teams and ensure consistent messaging across all channels during both routine operations and crisis situations.
Key responsibilities
- Developing corporate communications and PR strategy
- Managing media relations and press office functions
- Overseeing crisis communications planning and response
- Leading internal communications and employee engagement
- Managing communications teams, agencies and budgets
Qualifications and entry routes
Typically requires a degree in communications, PR, journalism or marketing, plus substantial senior experience. CIPR (Chartered Institute of Public Relations) chartership is the professional standard.
Career outlook
Steady demand. Digital communications, social media management and ESG reporting are expanding the scope of these roles.
Key skills
Common industries
- Corporate communications
- Public sector
- Agencies
- Financial services
- Healthcare
Data coverage
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Entry Level
£54,955
0-2 years
Mid Level
£54,955
3-7 years
Salary Trend (2021-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
Full-time premium: +£867
Public relations and communications directors salary: common questions
How much do public relations and communications directors earn in the UK?
Is £72,887 a good salary in the UK?
What is the starting salary for public relations and communications directors?
Have public relations and communications directors salaries kept up with inflation?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025).