Marketing executives are responsible for generating a steady stream of business for their company and creating and projecting a positive brand image. They work as part of the business's marketing team to generate effective campaigns and projects designed to create high levels of awareness of their products or services.
As a result, marketing executives have the potential to earn significant salaries while working in a creative and varied environment. But what can you expect?
If you’re considering such a position but want to know more about marketing executive salaries, how they differ depending on role (such as within digital marketing), and what influences them, read on.
Below, we explain how much individuals interested in marketing executive positions can expect to earn during their careers and what steps they can take to maximise their income while performing the role. Find out what your salary prospects are with our salary calculator.
What is a typical marketing executive salary?
A 2021 Marketing Week survey found that the average marketing executive salary in the UK was £27,400.
In terms of salary ranges, according to Prospects, marketing executive salaries vary from £18,000 to £22,000 for a new starter and up to £30,000 for experienced staff. Senior team member salaries can get up to £45,000. After this point, a promotion to marketing manager can see earnings rise to £60,000.
The National Careers Service gives a similar range – £20,000 for staff new to the field, rising to £50,000 for an experienced marketing executive.
Marketing executive roles are available in both the public and the private sectors but, increasingly, the private sector pays workers more attractively. Digital marketing executive salaries are very similar, though the increased need for expertise in certain digital marketing tools like Google Analytics can correspond with higher rates.
Most companies and public-facing organisations need some form of marketing department to function effectively; therefore, there is a wide range of opportunities available all across the country for those interested in becoming a marketing executive. Some locations are better than others salary-wise, however, with London comfortably coming top of the pay chart.
As marketing jobs often involve travelling to meet clients and attending relevant events, average marketing executive salaries in London are often higher than roles elsewhere in the UK. That said, competition for positions in the capital is also higher, as well as the cost of living and commuting.
How can you improve your salary as a marketing executive?
Whether you’re currently working as a marketing executive and want to increase your salary or are considering a move into the industry and want to do all you can to climb the pay grades, there is plenty you can do to increase your chances of earning more.
- Work hard – The simplest way to boost a salary as a marketing executive is to work hard and earn a reputation as a reliable and effective marketer. This really is the first step to success.
- Prove your worth – If you can prove your abilities to your company and have evidence to back up your achievements, you’ll hold all the cards. That’s because you’ll be able to show you’re indispensable to the organisation, and as a result be more likely to secure promotions and a higher marketing executive salary.
And if these opportunities don’t arise, you will have gained enough experience to be able to look for a better-paid position at a different organisation – use our marketing CV template to improve your chances of success.
- Train your skills – Another great way to constantly improve your value is to enrol on training courses to widen your skills and continue your personal development. This will help you keep your knowledge up to date with current trends and ensure you remain relevant as the marketing industry evolves and develops around you.
This is particularly crucial for improving digital marketing executive salaries since this area of the industry is most exposed to technological shifts.
- Enjoy the work – If you’re starting a career in marketing, it can be a good idea to look for roles that appeal to your interests, as you’ll be more likely to find it easier to move up the pay chain if you have passion.
- Plan your progression – It’s also important your roles fit in with your long-term career aims. It‘s common for marketing executives wanting to earn the best salaries to move to larger companies as they gain experience.
This is simply because smaller companies often have limited resources and relatively small marketing teams, which can curtail progression and earning potential.
- Build a brand – In a sector as competitive as marketing, creating an online brand for yourself, such as on social media platforms like LinkedIn, can help you get better-paid roles. Read our guide to learn how.
Find your next marketing executive role with Randstad
Marketing executive salaries differ greatly depending on seniority, location and specialism, but follow the tips above and you should be able to command a larger salary or plan a route to get one.
If you’re applying for marketing executive roles, check out our CV and cover letter writing guide then visit our listings to find the right role for you. Need any help? Get in touch with our team today.
