Top 25 Highest Paying Jobs UK 2025 | Earn Up to £250K

clendar May 10, 2025

clendar 13 minutes

97531 Viewers

Summary:

The highest paying jobs in the UK range from £40,000 to over £250,000 annually. Top roles include CEOs, investment bankers, surgeons, and airline pilots. Best earning jobs also feature CFOs, orthodontists, and software engineering managers. Careers in finance, law, and tech offer strong earning potential with the right skills and experience.

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Choosing a future career can be a challenging decision, whether you want to leave your current job or select which path to take when you finish your studies. There are several factors to consider before making a decision.

While it’s important to consider your interests and what you want to do in life, it’s also important to ensure your chosen career will provide you with a comfortable life. That’s why in this article, we will mention the Highest Paying Jobs in the UK to help you choose the career that’s best for you.

If you decide to invest in your progress, the last thing you would want is to spend years developing your skills in a career that won’t support you or your family if you decide to have one. There are plenty of different, exciting career options in the UK that will help you meet your financial goals! So in this article, we’ve included the top 25 highest paying jobs in the UK to help you decide the most suitable career for you!

Trending 25 Highest Paying Jobs in the UK

We have compiled a list of the top 25 highest paying trending jobs in the UK, drawn from a wide range of professional choices. We hope you discover useful information about the highest-paying and trending jobs. You can choose your job path and pursue your interests –

1. Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Average Salary: £80,000 – £250,000+

CEOs are the top executives responsible for the overall direction and success of the company. They manage operations, make high-level strategic decisions, and interact with stakeholders. In top positions, their salaries can exceed £500,000 with bonuses.

A CEO at a multinational corporation oversees all aspects of the business, from international expansion strategies to financial health and stakeholder relations, ensuring the company remains competitive in a global market.

Some crucial skills for Chief Executive Officers are leadership, strategic planning, business analysis, operations management, people management etc.

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2. Marketing Director

Average Salary: £60,000 – £150,000+

Marketing Directors are responsible for developing and implementing marketing strategies to promote products and services. They manage teams, budgets, and campaigns to align with company objectives. In large corporations, senior roles can command salaries over £150,000.

A Marketing Director at a major consumer goods company manages the marketing department, driving brand awareness and customer engagement through innovative campaigns, market research, and digital strategies.

The Marketing Executive Training course could be a good way to develop skills for roles like Marketing Director, if you’re looking to advance in the field.

3. Airline Pilot

Average Salary: £40,000 – £120,000+

Airline Pilots operate aircraft, ensuring passenger safety and efficient flight operations. They perform pre-flight checks, follow flight plans, and communicate with air traffic control. Senior pilots with extensive experience flying international routes can earn upwards of £140,000.

A senior pilot flying long-haul routes for a major international airline manages complex flight logistics, ensuring passenger comfort and safety across multiple continents, and can earn a six-figure salary.

4. IT Director

Average Salary: £70,000 – £150,000+

IT Directors oversee a company’s technology infrastructure, leading digital transformation projects, and ensuring systems are secure. Their responsibilities include managing cybersecurity, software development, and technology strategy. Top positions can offer salaries exceeding £150,000.

An IT Director at a financial services firm is responsible for managing the company’s IT strategy, ensuring robust data security and compliance with industry regulations, and leading initiatives for digital transformation.

The Essential IT Skills course can help you build a strong foundation in technology, covering key areas like cybersecurity, software development, and digital strategy, preparing you for roles such as IT Director.

5. Investment Banker

Average Salary: £50,000 – £150,000+

Investment Bankers provide financial advice on mergers, acquisitions, and other transactions. They perform financial modelling, manage risk, and provide strategic advice. Mid-level roles are around £90,000, with senior positions easily surpassing £150,000.

An Investment Banker working in mergers and acquisitions advises corporate clients on complex transactions, negotiating deals, and managing client relationships, which can lead to substantial earnings at senior levels.

Our Investment Banking course from One Education helps you learn key skills in finance, risk management, and deal-making, preparing you for a successful career in investment banking.

6. Lawyer

Average Salary: £40,000 – £120,000+

Lawyers provide legal advice, draft contracts, and represent clients in disputes. They may specialise in fields such as corporate law or family law. Top lawyers in leading firms can earn well over £120,000.

A corporate lawyer working for a top law firm handles complex mergers, acquisitions, and regulatory issues, earning a six-figure salary with bonuses at senior levels.

7. Corporate Lawyer

Average Salary: £50,000 – £130,000+

Corporate Lawyers handle business-related legal matters, such as mergers and acquisitions, compliance, and contract management. Their salaries increase significantly with experience, with senior roles earning £130,000 and beyond.

A Corporate Lawyer at a major corporation advises on the company’s mergers, acquisitions, and compliance matters, managing legal risks and ensuring regulatory compliance.

8. Data Scientist

Average Salary: £40,000 – £100,000+

Data Scientists analyse large datasets to extract valuable insights, build predictive models, and optimise business processes. Salaries start around £40,000 for entry-level roles and can reach £100,000 or more for senior positions.

A senior Data Scientist in a tech company builds predictive models to forecast consumer behaviour and develop targeted marketing strategies, earning a top salary for their expertise.

9. Finance Manager

Average Salary: £45,000 – £85,000+

Finance Managers oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting within organisations. They ensure effective resource allocation and compliance with regulations. Experienced professionals in this role can earn up to £85,000.

A Finance Manager in a large corporation manages the company’s finances, preparing reports, overseeing budgeting, and advising on financial strategies.

10. Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Average Salary: £80,000 – £200,000+

As an Actuary, you will evaluate financial risks and

CFOs manage a company’s financial strategy, including budgeting, investment, and risk management. They work closely with other executives to ensure long-term profitability. Senior roles can command salaries over £200,000.

A CFO at a multinational corporation is responsible for the financial health of the entire organisation, overseeing financial strategies, managing budgets, and securing funding.

11. Anaesthesiologist

Average Salary: £70,000 – £150,000+

Anaesthesiologists administer anaesthesia and manage patient sedation during surgeries, ensuring safety throughout procedures. Senior anaesthesiologists in leading hospitals can earn up to £150,000.

An Anaesthesiologist at a top hospital ensures patient safety during complex surgeries, managing anaesthesia protocols and patient monitoring.

12. Ophthalmologist

Average Salary: £60,000 – £120,000+

Ophthalmologists diagnose and treat eye conditions, perform surgeries, and manage chronic diseases. Their salaries increase significantly with experience, reaching £120,000 or more at senior levels.

An Ophthalmologist at a private clinic performs advanced eye surgeries, manages patient care, and advises on preventive eye health.

13. Surgeon

Average Salary: £80,000 – £200,000+

Surgeons perform operations to treat injuries, diseases, or deformities. They manage patient care and recovery alongside healthcare teams. Experienced surgeons can earn over £200,000.

A top Surgeon in a specialist field such as cardiac surgery performs complex procedures and manages patient care post-surgery, earning a premium salary for their skills.

14. Dentist

Average Salary: £50,000 – £120,000+

Dentists diagnose and treat dental issues, performing cleanings, fillings, and surgeries. Salaries start at £50,000 for entry-level roles and can exceed £120,000 for those in senior positions.

A Dentist with a private practice performs cosmetic procedures, oversees patient care, and manages the business aspects of their clinic, commanding a higher salary.

15. Tax Director

Average Salary: £60,000 – £150,000+

Tax Directors ensure businesses comply with tax regulations while optimising tax efficiency. They manage audits, handle compliance, and develop tax strategies. Top roles can earn salaries over £150,000.

A Tax Director at a major corporation develops tax planning strategies, manages the company’s tax compliance, and advises on cross-border tax issues.

16. Air Traffic Controller

Average Salary: £40,000 – £120,000+

Air Traffic Controllers coordinate the safe movement of aircraft, ensuring efficient flight operations. Their salaries increase with experience, reaching £120,000 or more in senior positions.

An Air Traffic Controller at a busy international airport manages air traffic in high-density airspace, ensuring safety and efficient travel routes.

17. Chartered Accountant

Average Salary: £50,000 – £130,000+

Chartered Accountants manage financial accounts, audit companies, and provide tax advice. Their role involves compliance, financial planning, and ensuring that financial operations are transparent and efficient. Senior roles, especially those in management or consultancy, can command salaries up to £130,000.

A Chartered Accountant in a top firm oversees financial audits, provides tax advisory services, and manages client relationships, leading to higher earnings with seniority.

18. Director of Engineering

Average Salary: £70,000 – £150,000+

Directors of Engineering lead the engineering teams and manage projects within their organisation. They are responsible for the design, development, and implementation of new technologies, ensuring that engineering projects meet company goals and standards. Top roles can earn salaries over £150,000.

A Director of Engineering at a tech company oversees software and hardware development, manages engineering teams, and implements cutting-edge technologies, significantly boosting their salary as they progress to senior positions.

19. Pharmacist

Average Salary: £45,000 – £85,000+

Pharmacists dispense medication, offer healthcare advice, and manage the supply chain of pharmaceuticals. They may work in hospitals, community pharmacies, or clinics. Their earnings increase with experience and responsibility.

A Pharmacist working in a hospital setting manages medication protocols, provides patient consultations, and works as part of the healthcare team, often earning more than those in community pharmacies.

20. Project Manager

Average Salary: £50,000 – £100,000+

Project Managers oversee projects from start to finish, managing resources, budgets, and timelines. They ensure projects are completed on time and within scope. Senior roles, particularly those in large organisations, can earn up to £100,000.

A Project Manager at a construction firm manages large-scale projects, coordinating with engineers, contractors, and clients, earning a higher salary due to their responsibilities and expertise.

21. Analysts

Average Salary: £40,000 – £90,000+

Analysts collect, interpret, and analyse data to help organisations make informed decisions. They are found in sectors such as finance, marketing, and operations. Senior analysts, especially those leading teams, can earn salaries approaching £90,000.

A Senior Data Analyst in a financial services firm analyses market trends and economic data, providing critical insights for decision-making, and commands a higher salary for their expertise.

22. Corporate Consultant

Average Salary: £60,000 – £150,000+

Corporate Consultants advise organisations on business strategy, process improvements, and operations. They provide expertise on everything from mergers and acquisitions to business transformation. Top consultants can earn well over £150,000.

A Management Consultant working for a global consultancy firm advises on corporate restructuring and strategic management, often earning a premium salary for their insights and experience.

23. Business Consultant

Average Salary: £55,000 – £130,000+

Business Consultants provide advice to companies on improving performance, reducing costs, and increasing efficiency. They often work on strategic projects, mergers, and acquisitions. Salaries can reach over £130,000 for those in senior consultancy roles.

A Business Consultant working for a multinational firm provides strategic advice on operations, conducts financial modelling, and oversees project implementations, earning a top salary for their expertise.

24. Chartered Surveyor

Average Salary: £45,000 – £100,000+

Chartered Surveyors evaluate and manage land and property, providing assessments, valuations, and advice to clients. Their work can involve residential, commercial, or industrial properties. Senior roles can command salaries up to £100,000.

A Chartered Surveyor working in commercial real estate assesses properties, conducts valuations, and advises on investment opportunities, earning a higher salary with their specialisation and experience.

25. Marketing Manager

Average Salary: £45,000 – £90,000+

Marketing Managers are responsible for creating and overseeing marketing campaigns that promote a company’s products or services. They manage marketing teams, develop strategies, and analyze market trends. With experience, their roles can command higher salaries, especially in senior positions within larger companies.

A Marketing Manager at a tech firm develops and executes marketing strategies to boost product sales, manage social media campaigns, and analyze market data to refine marketing tactics, earning a premium salary due to their expertise and responsibility

As we explore the highest paying jobs in the UK, it is essential to also address critical global challenges such as climate change and global warming. These pressing issues demand our attention and action. While pursuing successful careers is important, it is equally vital to engage with topics like climate change to foster awareness and understanding.

Now you have all the information about the highest paying jobs in the UK. You may have already chosen one from above, to start or progress your career. But getting hired is a different story. You need to be a skilled person to get your dream job.

Choose the Highest Paying Job That's Most Suitable for You

Whichever career you might like to pursue, you need to consider the financial rewards before you make any final decisions. Building a career for yourself requires significant investment on your part – in time, training, and money.

The average salary in the UK is £29,600 a year, or about £1,950 per month. But there are plenty of opportunities to earn high-paying salaries in the UK. It is high time to peak your dream career path. Be skilled in the technical sectors. Get training from the CPD accredited platform like One Education. Increase your chances of getting hired in highly paid, trending jobs in the UK.

Article by

Josh Ashton

Josh is an education specialist and author at One Education, bringing over 4 years of experience in creating practical resources and strategies to support teachers and enhance student learning.