Salaries and bonuses - key findings

Our survey shows that salaries and bonuses have recovered since 2010 and are now back to 2009 levels, although this is not experienced evenly throughout the business community.

Key findings

• More than half of ACAs had a positive salary review during the previous 12 months (53%, up from 39% in the 2010 survey). The average annual basic salary is £82,400, a 4% increase since the 2010 survey and 2% higher than in 2009
• Across all ACAs, the average bonus is £17,400, a 32% increase since the 2010 survey
• Earnings vary considerably by sector. Those in the banking and capital markets sector remain the highest earners, with an average basic salary of £106,700 (up by 9% on 2010) and bonus of £44,900 (up by 28%)
• Within the UK, the highest average salaries (£92,500) and bonuses (£27,600) are received by ACAs based in London
• Average earnings of ACAs working outside the UK are substantially higher than those in the UK, with an average salary of £114,700 and bonus of £27,600

Confidence returns

While ACAs were not immune to the impact of the global recession, in some cases there is increased confidence in career development prospects and a return of salaries to pre-recessionary levels.

ACAs are progressively becoming more optimistic and a proportion plan on seeking promotions or new career opportunities as the recovery takes hold. Growing economic and job security will keep organisations on their toes as they recruit, re-recruit and retain top talent.

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