What is the Business Analyst’s Salary in the UK?

Updated May 9, 2024
6 minutes

Business analysis is a crucial aspect of any organisation, and as such, it is a field that has seen significant growth in recent years. The United Kingdom is a hub of business activity and attracts many business analysts from across the globe. In this article, we will explore the salary range of business analysts in the UK and what factors influence this range.

Average Salary of the Business Analyst

According to research conducted by PayScale, the average salaries of a business analyst in the UK is £34,965 per year. However, the payout range for business analysts can vary significantly depending on a range of factors. For example, entry level business analyst can expect to earn around £26,000 per year, while experienced business analysts can expect a salary around £32,000. Business analysts with more than ten years of experience can reach up to £65,000 per year.

What does the Business Analyst’s Payout Depend on?

Several factors determine the salaries for business analysts in the UK, including:

  • Experience, as business analysts with more experience, tend to earn higher salaries than those who are just starting in the field. Specialists who have worked in the profession for many years are especially appreciated.
  • The industry in which a business analyst works can have a significant impact on their salary range. For example, workers in finance or banking, tend to earn higher salaries than those working in the low-profit sector. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a business analyst in the finance sector is £47,000 per year, while the average salary for a business analyst in the non-profit sector is £31,000.
  • Location, where a business analyst does his job, also influences their salaries. Generally, business analysts working in cities such as London or Manchester will have better payouts than those working in more rural areas.
  • The company size that a business analyst works for can also impact the money they get. Typically, larger companies offer higher salaries than smaller companies. Of course, there are exceptions, but this applies mainly to the best employees. For a freshly minted specialist, small companies cannot offer such good deals as large corporations.
  • The level of education a business analyst has attained can be another important aspect of salary. Those with advanced degrees such as an MBA may be able to command higher pay than those with just a bachelor’s degree.
  • The skills that a business analyst possesses are certainly the most important. Employees with expertise in areas such as data analysis or project management may be able to earn higher salaries than others.

Salaries Gap

The difference in the highest and lowest salaries of business analyst in the UK can be significant. On the low end, some business analysts may earn salaries as low as £21,000 per year, while on the high end, salaries can exceed £80,000 per year. This can be due to all the factors mentioned above.

One key factor that can impact the difference in salaries is the level of experience. According to Glassdoor data, the salary for a junior business analyst with less than one year of experience is £26,000 per year, while a senior with 10 or more years of experience can earn an average salary of £62,000 per year.

Working Hours of Business Analyst

Typically, business analyst works full-time hours, which can range from 35 to 50 hours per week. However, in some industries such as finance, business analyst may be required to work longer hours and occasionally weekends, especially during peak periods. Business analysts may also be required to work additional hours when working on complex projects or dealing with urgent issues.

Some companies offer flexible working hours, which can allow business analysts to adjust their schedules to fit their personal needs. This may include working from home or working part-time hours. Yet, it’s worth noting that flexible working arrangements may not be available in all companies or industries. 

Business Analyst Career Path and Market Trends

The career path for a business analyst often involves a progression from entry-level roles to more senior positions. Entry-level business analysts, also known as junior analysts, typically start by analysing data and supporting project teams. As they gain experience, many business analysts take on more responsibilities, such as managing projects, providing new systems, and providing strategic insights. This progression often leads to roles like project manager, where they can apply their knowledge in business analysis to lead significant initiatives and drive change within the organisation.

The demand for business analyst jobs is influenced by various sectors, including finance, information technology, and healthcare. Each sector presents unique challenges and opportunities, requiring analyst to adapt his skills and knowledge to meet specific business needs. The ability to understand and navigate these sector-specific nuances is a key factor in the career progression of a business analyst.

Development and Training Opportunities

Continual professional development is crucial for business analysts. Engaging in training courses and obtaining certifications in relevant subjects can significantly enhance an analyst’s job prospects and salary potential. These training opportunities not only equip business analyst with the necessary skills but also demonstrate their commitment to staying current in a rapidly evolving field.

Moreover, business analysts must possess a range of transferable skills to succeed. Skills like effective communication, critical thinking, and the ability to work closely with various teams are invaluable. Additionally, expertise in specific areas such as developing and implementing new systems, analysing market trends, and understanding complex business processes is highly sought after by employers.

Salary Prospects and Industry Variations

The salary prospects for business analysts vary widely based on factors such as industry, location, company size, and level of experience. For instance, business analysts in London typically earn higher salaries than those in other locations due to the higher cost of living and concentration of large, multinational companies. Similarly, finance and technology tend to offer higher salaries than sectors like non-profit or education.

Conclusion

In summary, the salary range for business analysts in the United Kingdom can vary significantly depending on some factors including experience, location, company size, education and skills. While the salary for a business analyst can provide a general indication of what to expect, it’s important to consider these factors when evaluating potential salary ranges. Overall, a career as a business analyst can be both financially and professionally rewarding, offering the opportunity to work in a dynamic field with diver

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