Head of Design Salary in Colombo, Western

Colombo is Sri Lanka's largest commercial center, home to IT firms, creative agencies, and international offices. Design leadership positions often offer competitive salaries and opportunities for advancement. Living costs influence compensation expectations.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

Rs රු210,000 to Rs රු290,000

Average (per year)

Rs රු250,000

Many young leaders begin their design careers at digital agencies, startups, or media companies, receiving competitive starting salaries.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

Rs රු290,000 to Rs රු420,000

Average (per year)

Rs රු350,000

In tech and finance sectors, mid-level heads who manage teams for large Sri Lankan brands often receive competitive pay.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

Rs රු420,000 to Rs රු600,000

Average (per year)

Rs රු500,000

Senior positions are found in software firms, multinational corporations, and prominent creative agencies, with salaries reflecting seniority.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

Rs රු600,000+

Principal and lead designers may earn higher salaries, especially when working with international firms or major tech companies.

Hourly Rates

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

Junior

Rs රු1100 - Rs රු1800

per hour

Mid-level

Rs රු1800 - Rs රු2600

per hour

Senior

Rs රු2600 - Rs රු3500

per hour