Design Director Salary in Derby, Nottingham
Derby has a reputation for engineering, transport, and digital technology. Design Directors in Derby work with large employers or in high-value manufacturing. The local cost of living remains moderate compared to London or Manchester.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
£37,000 to £44,000
Average (per year)
£40,500
New Design Directors in Derby join engineering, manufacturing, or digital firms.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
£44,000 to £53,000
Average (per year)
£48,500
At mid-level, directors take on project and team management for national employers in transport, tech, or manufacturing.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
£53,000 to £63,000
Average (per year)
£58,000
Senior roles oversee creative direction for large‑scale projects or lead design strategy for employers in Derby.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
£63,000+
Leads strategic design vision, mentors senior teams, and drives cross‑functional innovation initiatives.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
£25 - £34
per hour
Mid-level
£34 - £44
per hour
Senior
£44 - £58
per hour