Salary Indicator Guide 2026

Our annual Salary Indicator Guide gives you a window into the actual salaries paid primarily in London and across the wider UK’s creative design and brand industry.

Inside this guide, you’ll find the good, better, best salaries for both freelance and perm roles within creative & design, client services, new business development, marketing & strategy.

Use it to benchmark your expectations against the industry average, whether you are a candidate looking for a new role or a client looking to grow your team.

It is important to note that all figures are indicative and based on current industry trends, live roles, market insight and our day-to-day recruitment experience. Salaries and day rates may vary depending on factors such as company size, sector, location, individual experience, portfolio strength, leadership responsibility and negotiation.

While salary remains an important element of any offer, we are increasingly seeing lifestyle and wellbeing benefits play a critical role in decision-making. Flexible and hybrid working models, additional holiday, healthcare benefits, personal development, wellbeing initiatives and overall company culture are now key considerations for many candidates. Compensation is no longer just about salary alone — it is about the complete package and the environment in which people can thrive.

 

Salary Indicator Guide 2026