Salary information for IT Manager jobs in August, 2025.
Find out where your salary stands against others in by taking part in our survey.
FAQs about IT Manager Salaries
What is the typical salary range for an IT Manager in an architectural firm across the UK, and how does the scale of the firm influence this?
The typical salary range for an IT Manager in a UK architectural firm generally falls between £45,000 and £75,000 per annum. The scale of the firm is a significant factor. In smaller to medium-sized practices (e.g., 20-100 employees), the salary might be closer to £45,000-£60,000, where the role is often more hands-on. In larger architectural firms (100+ employees), where the IT infrastructure is more complex, and there might be a small team to manage, salaries can range from £55,000 to £75,000+, reflecting increased responsibility and strategic involvement.
How does location, specifically London versus other UK regions, impact an IT Manager's salary in an architectural practice?
Location significantly impacts an IT Manager’s salary. In London, the expected salary range for an IT Manager in an architectural practice is typically £55,000 to £75,000 per annum. This higher figure is primarily due to the increased cost of living in the capital and the higher concentration of larger firms with more complex IT needs. In other major UK regions (e.g., Manchester, Bristol, Leeds, Glasgow), the salary range for a comparable IT Manager role would typically be lower, falling between £45,000 and £65,000.
What specific responsibilities or specializations allow an IT Manager to command a higher salary in the architectural sector?
An IT Manager can command a higher salary in the architectural sector by taking on specific responsibilities or having valuable specializations. This includes:
- Managing a small IT team: Leadership and team management skills are highly valued.
- Leading IT projects: Experience in project management (e.g., software rollouts, infrastructure upgrades) adds significant value.
- Expertise in Cloud Migration and Management: As firms move to hybrid or cloud-only environments for collaboration and data storage.
- Advanced Cybersecurity Skills: Implementing and managing robust security measures to protect sensitive design data.
- Specialized Hardware/Software Knowledge: Deep understanding and support for high-performance computing, rendering farms, large-format plotters, and architectural software licensing intricacies.
- Strategic Input: Contributing to IT strategy and aligning technology with business objectives.
How do certifications and years of experience contribute to an IT Manager's salary progression in architectural firms?
Both certifications and years of experience are crucial for an IT Manager’s salary progression. Typically, 5+ years of progressive IT experience, including some in a supervisory or project lead role, is a minimum requirement to reach the IT Manager level. Each additional year of relevant experience, especially within the architectural or design industry, can lead to salary increases. Certifications like ITIL (for service management), CompTIA Network+/Server+, Microsoft Certified (e.g., Azure Administrator), or Cisco CCNA demonstrate validated technical skills and commitment to professional development, often translating to higher earning potential. More advanced certifications in cybersecurity or cloud architecture can further boost salary.
Yes, there can be a significant salary difference, often 5% to 15% higher, for an IT Manager who possesses a strong understanding of BIM or CAD workflows, even if they aren’t hands-on designers. An IT Manager who comprehends the unique demands of architectural software, large model file sizes, rendering processes, and BIM collaboration platforms (e.g., Autodesk Construction Cloud) is invaluable. This understanding allows them to make more informed infrastructure decisions, troubleshoot design-specific IT issues more effectively, and better support the core business operations of an architectural firm. This specialized domain knowledge makes them a more sought-after and highly compensated professional.
A private and exclusive forum for Architecture & Design professionals and students.
Backed by industry specialists, it’s where you can engage in meaningful conversation, make connections, showcase your work, gain expert insights, and tap into curated opportunities to advance your career or strengthen your studio.
