The UK's official graduate careers website

Login to My Prospects

Not a member yet? Join now
 

Search site
 

Advertising art director : Salary and conditions

More in this section

  1. Job description
  2. Salary and conditions
  3. Entry requirements
  4. Training
  5. Career development
  6. Employers and vacancy …
  7. Related jobs

Print all pages in this section

Case studies

  • Range of typical starting salaries: new entrants on a work placement with an agency might be paid the national minimum wage; for those in junior positions, salaries may range from £18,000 to £25,000, depending on the type and location of the agency.
  • Salaries for experienced art directors vary. For example, a team with three years' experience that has won awards and already produced successful campaigns could expect a slightly higher salary. Salaries may range from £25,000 to £50,000.
  • Senior art directors may earn anything between £45,000 and £120,000, although very few reach the upper end of this range as the highest salaries will only be paid by the leading agencies.
  • Some art directors are self-employed and work freelance. While this work style gives flexibility, it may also be a precarious way to earn a living as advertising is a very competitive industry. Freelance work is a more feasible option for well-established art directors.
  • Working hours are generally nine to five. However, extra hours are required in the evenings and at weekends in order to meet deadlines and specific needs (e.g. being on location at a certain time).
  • Unsocial working hours may cause some disruption to personal life. Busy periods when long hours are required may also be very stressful.
  • Work is primarily office-based but this will depend on the type of project and the employer. Some out-of-office work may be needed, on location, for example, or to meet with clients, which may involve a certain amount of travel.
  • Historically more men than women have entered this profession although there are now increasing numbers of female creative teams. Women are particularly supported by Women in Advertising and Communications London (WACL) .
  • Dress code varies, depending on the employer or agency, but is generally relaxed.
  • Jobs are available throughout the UK, although many of the larger agencies are based in London. Employment opportunities also exist abroad.
 
AGCAS
Written by AGCAS editors
Date: 
April 2011
© Copyright AGCAS & Graduate Prospects Ltd | Disclaimer
 
 
 

This website is best viewed in an up-to-date web browser with CSS enabled. While you will be able to view the content of this page in your current browser, you will not be able to get the full visual experience. Please consider upgrading your browser software or enabling style sheets if you are able to do so.