Chief Design Officer Salary in Southampton, Hampshire

Design leadership pay in Southampton is influenced by the city's international port, university research, and digital health startups. Employers offer strong salaries to attract experienced leaders. Living costs and competitive hiring both influence the upper tiers.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

£70,000 to £90,000

Average (per year)

£80,000

Assist senior design leaders in developing concepts, creating assets, and coordinating design projects.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

£90,000 to £112,000

Average (per year)

£101,000

Mid-level roles involve managing teams for utilities, fintech, or university spinouts.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

£112,000 to £138,000

Average (per year)

£125,000

Senior Chief Design Officers oversee multidisciplinary teams at major employers in shipping, research, or technology.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

£138,000+

Principal-level salaries are common in digital health, maritime, and large software firms.

Hourly Rates

For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.

Junior

£42 - £65

per hour

Mid-level

£65 - £90

per hour

Senior

£90 - £130

per hour