Fractional Project Manager Salary Guide UK [2025]
Fractional project managers in the UK earn between £50,000 and £120,000 annually depending on experience, typically working 2-3 days per week for multiple clients. With day rates ranging from £500 to £1,000, fractional PMs often out-earn their permanent counterparts while enjoying greater flexibility and work-life balance. This guide breaks down UK fractional PM earnings, regional variations, and factors influencing rates.
Average Fractional PM Day Rates UK
| Experience Level | Day Rate | Days/Week | Annual Income |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mid-Senior (10-15 years) | £500-£700 | 2-3 | £50,000-£110,000 |
| Senior (15-20 years) | £700-£900 | 2-3 | £70,000-£140,000 |
| Expert (20+ years) | £900-£1,200 | 2-4 | £90,000-£250,000 |
Calculation basis: 50 billable weeks per year (accounting for 2 weeks holiday/business development). Actual income varies based on client load and utilization rates.
Factors Influencing Fractional PM Day Rates
1. Years of Experience
- 10-15 years: Proven track record managing diverse projects, established methodologies (Agile/PRINCE2), £500-£700/day
- 15-20 years: Strategic expertise, crisis management skills, industry specialization, £700-£900/day
- 20+ years: Executive-level advisory, transformation leadership, £900-£1,200/day
2. Industry Specialization
- Tech/SaaS (highest): £700-£1,000/day - high demand for Agile, product management skills
- Financial Services: £650-£1,200/day - regulatory expertise, compliance projects premium
- Professional Services: £600-£900/day - client delivery, multi-project management
- E-commerce/Retail: £550-£850/day - omnichannel projects, platform implementations
- Healthcare: £550-£900/day - clinical systems, NHS experience valued
- Construction/Property: £500-£800/day - PRINCE2 essential, site-based premium
3. Geographic Location
- London: +25-35% premium (£650-£1,200/day typical)
- South East (Reading, Oxford, Cambridge): +15-25% (£600-£1,000/day)
- Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds: Base rates (£550-£850/day)
- Scotland, Wales, North: -10-15% (£500-£750/day)
- Fully remote roles: Often command London rates regardless of location