Our 2021 Healthcare Communications salary and workforce insight survey found that across the sector the average salary for a male worker in the UK is 23.3% higher than the average female salary. 

The average male salary is £61,243 which is 23.3% higher than the average female salary of £49,688. It’s important to highlight that this year the gender pay gap has increased dramatically compared to 2020 where there was a gap of 9.1% (where the male average salary of £52,504 and female average salary of £48,132).

(24.9% of survey responders identify as male and 74% as female with 1.1% preferring not to identify).

Gender pay gaps by seniority 

When male and female salaries are compared by the level of responsibility, we can see that the pay gap is present at every level, even at no level of responsibility (which had a small negative gap last year).  The largest gap is at Director level where the average make earns £115,444, 31.5% higher than the average female Director salary.  

It is at the Director level where we see a higher proportion of males (45%) compared to just 23% with no responsibility.

The female/male proportion is more consistent at seniority levels below Director – ranging from 77% female at manager level to 72% female at Head of Department.  

The key findings of this survey were presented during a MedComms webinar on 16^th June which you can view here.

You can view our webinar slides or request a free copy of our full detailed report that includes more insights into the sector including average salaries, expected pay rises and the most in-demand skills employers are looking for.

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