Purchasing managers and directors vs Research and development (R&D) managers Salary (2025)
How do Purchasing managers and directors and Research and development (R&D) managers salaries compare in the UK? Here is a detailed side-by-side breakdown.
Purchasing managers and directors earns £2,650 more per year (5% higher)
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Detailed Comparison
| Metric | Purchasing managers and directors | Research and development (R&D) managers | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Annual | £59,464 | £56,814 | +£2,650 |
| Mean Annual | £62,204 | £60,497 | +£1,707 |
| Monthly | £4,955 | £4,735 | +£220 |
| Weekly | £1,144 | £1,093 | +£51 |
| Hourly | £28.59 | £27.31 | +£1.28 |
Salary Range Comparison
| Percentile | Purchasing managers and directors | Research and development (R&D) managers |
|---|---|---|
| 10th (Entry) | £31,444 | £34,679 |
| 25th | £43,367 | £44,379 |
| 50th (Median) | £59,464 | £56,814 |
| 75th | £78,781 | £72,775 |
| 90th (Senior) | £0 | £0 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who earns more, a Purchasing managers and directors or a Research and development (R&D) managers?
A Purchasing managers and directors earns more. The median salary for a Purchasing managers and directors is £59,464, whilst a Research and development (R&D) managers earns £56,814 — a difference of £2,650 per year.
What is the salary difference between a Purchasing managers and directors and a Research and development (R&D) managers?
The difference is £2,650 per year. Purchasing managers and directors is the higher-paid role.
Should I become a Purchasing managers and directors or a Research and development (R&D) managers?
From a salary perspective, Purchasing managers and directors offers higher median pay. However, career choice depends on many factors including interests, qualifications, work-life balance and long-term prospects.
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