Managers and directors in the creative industries Salary
Median salary £50,868 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.
Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £51,000 after tax and National Insurance →
For managers and directors in the creative industries, £54,772 is the typical (median) pay. That is well above the UK full-time median of £39,039 — +40% versus the national average.
About this role
Managers and directors in the creative industries lead organisations in media, film, television, music, publishing, gaming, advertising and other creative sectors. They manage creative teams, commercial strategy, production schedules and client relationships.
Key responsibilities
- Leading creative teams and managing production processes
- Developing commercial strategy and revenue streams
- Managing client relationships, contracts and creative briefs
- Overseeing budgets, schedules and project delivery
- Building and maintaining creative talent within the organisation
Qualifications and entry routes
Typically combines creative industry experience with business management capability. Degrees in creative arts, media production, business or related fields are common. Industry track record and professional network are often more important than formal qualifications.
Career outlook
Digital transformation, streaming platforms and gaming are creating new leadership opportunities. AI-generated content is reshaping production workflows and business models.
Key skills
Common industries
- Film and television
- Advertising agencies
- Publishing
- Music industry
- Gaming and interactive media
Data coverage
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Entry Level
£35,844
0-2 years
Mid Level
£35,844
3-7 years
Salary Trend (2021-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
Full-time premium: +£3,904
Managers and directors in the creative industries salary: common questions
How much do managers and directors in the creative industries earn in the UK?
Is £54,772 a good salary in the UK?
What is the starting salary for managers and directors in the creative industries?
Have managers and directors in the creative industries salaries kept up with inflation?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025).