Head of Design Salary in Nairobi City, Kenya

Salary information for design leadership is provided. Mid‑level heads of design earn KSh350,000 per year. Strategic vision and brand impact are mentioned.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

KSh180,000 to KSh270,000

Average (per year)

KSh225,000

Startups and agencies set lower entry salaries, but international tech firms boost early career pay.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

KSh280,000 to KSh420,000

Average (per year)

KSh350,000

Mid-level Heads of Design work for fintech, mobile, or SaaS companies that pay above the national average.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

KSh430,000 to KSh600,000

Average (per year)

KSh520,000

Senior leaders at multinationals or local tech firms earn salaries above the national average in Nairobi.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

KSh610,000+

Principal or lead roles in Nairobi are rare and usually found at major banks, telcos, or global consultancies.

Hourly Rates

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

Junior

KSh800 - KSh1500

per hour

Mid-level

KSh1600 - KSh2500

per hour

Senior

KSh2600 - KSh4000

per hour

Heads of design salaries vary across regions. The capital's tech hub is noted.