How Much Do Project Managers Make in the UK? A Look Across Industries
💼 How Much Do Project Managers Make in the UK? A Look Across Industries
Project managers are the backbone of many businesses—coordinating teams, keeping stakeholders happy, and delivering projects on time and within budget. But how much do they actually earn? The answer: it depends heavily on the industry, experience, and location. Let’s break down what project managers can expect to make across different sectors in the UK, in 2025.
🔧 Construction & Engineering
Project management in construction often involves overseeing large-scale, long-term projects that require both technical and people skills.
Average Salary: £45,000–£65,000
Senior Roles: Up to £90,000+
Freelance Day Rate: £300–£500/day
High demand and complex risk management make this one of the more lucrative PM roles—especially in London and major infrastructure projects.
💻 IT & Technology
Technology PMs are responsible for software development, system upgrades, and digital transformations.
Average Salary: £50,000–£70,000
Senior/Programme Managers: £80,000–£110,000
Freelance Day Rate: £400–£700/day
Agile certifications and experience with tools like Jira, Azure DevOps, or Scrum methodology can boost earnings significantly.
💊 Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare
In this regulated industry, project managers often handle R&D, clinical trials, and compliance.
Average Salary: £55,000–£75,000
Senior Roles: £85,000–£100,000
Contract Rates: £450–£650/day
Strong demand, especially for PMs with scientific backgrounds or GxP compliance knowledge.
📺 Media & Creative Industries
Project managers here oversee campaigns, product launches, or cross-platform media projects.
Average Salary: £40,000–£60,000
Senior Roles: £70,000+
Freelance Day Rate: £300–£450/day
It’s a fast-paced world, often requiring juggling multiple stakeholders and tight deadlines, with lower salaries than tech or pharma but more flexibility.
🏦 Finance & Banking
In financial services, PMs manage regulatory projects, system upgrades, or product development.
Average Salary: £60,000–£85,000
Senior Roles: £100,000–£130,000+
Freelance Day Rate: £500–£800/day
Top banks and fintech firms pay premium rates, especially in London. Experience with compliance or transformation programmes adds serious value.
📦 Logistics & Manufacturing
Project managers keep production lines efficient and supply chains smooth.
Average Salary: £45,000–£65,000
Senior Roles: £70,000–£90,000
Contract Rates: £350–£550/day
PMs with Lean, Six Sigma, or supply chain credentials are particularly valued.
🎓 Entry-Level vs Senior Salaries
| Experience Level | Salary Range (GBP) |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level / Junior | £30,000–£40,000 |
| Mid-Level | £45,000–£65,000 |
| Senior / Programme | £70,000–£120,000+ |
📈 What Affects a Project Manager’s Salary?
Several factors influence how much a PM earns:
Certifications (e.g., PRINCE2, PMP, Agile/Scrum)
Industry expertise
Location (London salaries are typically 15–25% higher)
Experience managing budgets, teams, and stakeholders
Contract vs Permanent roles
Final Thoughts
Project management is one of the most flexible and rewarding career paths out there, with healthy salaries across nearly every sector. Whether you’re just starting out or leading multi-million-pound programmes, there’s a strong financial incentive to build your skills and specialize.
Thinking of leveling up? Consider getting certified or exploring high-paying industries like tech, finance, or pharmaceuticals.