Head of Design Salary in Cardiff, United Kingdom

Cardiff has a tech sector. Mid‑level heads of design earn around £70,000 annually. Companies ranging from digital agencies to financial services offer compensation packages to experienced design leaders.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

£51,000 to £63,000

Average (per year)

£57,000

Early‑career designers start at digital agencies or local tech firms.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

£64,000 to £76,000

Average (per year)

£70,000

Mid‑level Heads of Design lead creative teams in various sectors.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

£77,000 to £90,000

Average (per year)

£83,500

Senior designers work at regional headquarters or Welsh tech companies.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

£91,000+

Principal‑level designers are employed by national firms or global consultancies.

Hourly Rates

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

Junior

£28 - £38

per hour

Mid-level

£39 - £52

per hour

Senior

£53 - £65

per hour

Salary information for design leaders in Cardiff is available. A salary gap exists in the region.