Advertising accounts managers and creative directors Salary
Median salary £46,356 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.
About this role
Advertising accounts managers and creative directors lead campaigns and client relationships within agencies. Account managers coordinate between clients and creative teams, while creative directors set artistic vision and oversee creative output.
Key responsibilities
- Managing client relationships and campaign briefs
- Overseeing creative concept development and production
- Managing budgets, timelines and deliverables
- Presenting work and strategy to clients
- Leading creative and account teams
Qualifications and entry routes
Typically requires a degree in advertising, marketing or design. IPA qualifications are the industry professional development standard. Portfolio and track record are critical for creative directors.
Career outlook
Strong demand for digital advertising expertise. Programmatic, social media and data-driven skills are particularly valued.
Key skills
Common industries
- Advertising agencies
- Media agencies
- Digital agencies
- Brand consultancies
- In-house creative teams
Data coverage
Median Salary
£46,356
Mean Salary
£52,936
Jobs (000s)
31k
Data Years
11 years
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Entry Level
£23,514
0-2 years
Mid Level
£33,276
3-7 years
Senior
£62,896
8-15 years
Potential career growth: +167% from entry to leadership
Salary Trend (2015-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Gender pay gap: 15.2%
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
All Employees
£46,356
Full-time Only
£48,977
Full-time premium: +£2,621
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Lifetime earnings
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