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Managers and directors in creative industries plan, organise, direct and co-ordinate the activities and resources of organisations in sectors such as arts, publishing, music, media, design and architecture.

Main tasks

  • Determines staffing, material, financial, and other short- and long-term needs.
  • Reviews and revises creative teams' work across multiple projects.
  • Establishes client's requirements and oversees the conception and development of multiple projects.
  • Keeps up to date with new releases, publications and trends in relevant fields.
  • Helps set the creative direction of their organisation and finds new talent, such as artists, writers and musicians, as well as pieces such as artworks, scripts and music.
  • Liaises with clients, generates new business and promotes their organisation by attending and organising conferences, exhibits and other events.
  • Plans, organises, directs and co-ordinates the activities and resources of organisations in the creative industries, such as publishing firms, art galleries and television companies.

Source: Office for National Statistics.

Salary and earnings

Potential earnings

£67,203.92

Average earnings

£39,874.08

Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).

Skills & knowledge

The top 5 most important skills and knowledge requirements relevant to this career.

Reading Comprehension

Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Active Listening

Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Speaking

Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Active Learning

Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

Critical Thinking

Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Computers and Electronics

Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

Administration and Management

Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modelling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.

Design

Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.

Fine Arts

Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.

Communications and Media

Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.

What course level do I need to study?

The level of study required will vary with each job, sector and company. The table below shows the level of study achieved by those currently working in this career choice.

Educational requirements: Level 3 NVQ; A Levels

Source: Office for National Statistics.

Level of study Percentage achieved
Level 0 2%
Level 1 0%
Level 2 8%
Level 3 18%
Level 4-5 (Higher Education) 8%
Level 6 (Bachelors) 44%
Level 7 (Masters or equivalent) 16%
Level 8 (Doctorate) 3%

Source: Labour Force Survey (LFS) data.

Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.