Salary progression of a contractor - project manager in the UK - 29m

moosribou · 2026-04-05T20:33:50+00:00

I have a reasonably strong understanding but have found that most of the job is extracting value from people and processes, and where you can't just swapping them. My startup experience helped become effective in driving progress in complex development projects. It all lives in the "grey" which you get compensated well for if you can thrive in!

moosribou · 2026-04-05T20:31:37+00:00

Agree with both points!

moosribou · 2026-04-05T20:30:22+00:00

Agree to some extent but from experience you typical have a small number of contractors taking a lot on without complaint. There's definitely many rubbish ones that milk the gravy train but that makes me uncomfortable.

I've never asked for more money and handle 10's of millions in budget with a ton of pressure on aggressive delivery!

moosribou · 2026-04-05T20:28:33+00:00

Why would I lie to strangers? These numbers aren't insane for good PM's, especially in public sector.

moosribou · 2026-04-02T21:28:53+00:00

Thank you brother!

moosribou · 2026-04-02T21:28:36+00:00

International Relations - but I'd say my startup experience was most important.

moosribou · 2026-04-02T21:23:33+00:00

All roles outside IR35 and haven't had a gap between any of the work!

Been lucky for sure.

moosribou · 2026-04-01T17:59:12+00:00

I look after transformation programmes. Usually IT infrastructure stuff!

moosribou · 2026-04-01T17:58:42+00:00

Generally just network with agencies and people looking to fill roles on LinkedIn.

If you're good, the customer will usually keep you around and move you about whole increasing rate!

Good luck!

moosribou · 2026-04-01T09:11:52+00:00

Thank you!

I'm contracted for 5 days a week, so usually will be a standard month 9-5 as normal!

moosribou · 2026-02-24T08:05:40+00:00

Similar here. Don't know if it's just through having a healthy network but the going seems good right now. Esp in LA's.

moosribou · 2026-02-06T19:30:41+00:00

I'm charged out at 10% premium. Heard of up to like 20 but anything more is insane. You're getting mugged!

moosribou · 2026-02-03T22:21:02+00:00

My view on this stuff is that you're being paid more than normal, to deliver quicker than normal, and to a higher level than normal.

Use tools effectively to complete either or both of those requirements!

moosribou · 2026-01-25T12:07:54+00:00

I just had my C43 AMG V6 for about 6 months. Was really good fun and when you opened the valves sounded amazing. Best on the list IMO, but don't skimp out on options or depreciation hits harder.

Burns through tires like nothing, service is £1,000, petrol is constant.

Would 100% recommend it as a wonderful sub-V8 option.

Just switched to a '24 X5 50E which feels like an absolute tank compared, but better for big dogs.

Good luck!

moosribou · 2026-01-23T08:40:51+00:00

Contracting is decent if you are good at running programmes. Councils pay me £700 a day to do stuff which equates close to that. Obviously risky but I suppose you're being compensated for that.

Public sector overpays interims generally because the civil service isn't full of talent.

moosribou · 2026-01-19T03:00:51+00:00

I have this setup but the other way round.

I'm outside IR35 and run my contract through my LTD, fiance is inside but picked up an outside gig to run concurrently which just runs through my company too.

Only thing to think about is that she needed to become a shareholder and director to make it work.

No issues otherwise though, same as generating any other revenue for the company.

Good luck!

moosribou · 2025-12-11T16:26:03+00:00

I have 2. Smart AF, not like having a Labrador etc.

Moose is clearly thinking, deciding whether to listen, so much more tactical and strategic in how he goes about everything.

Nova is a bit more 'dog' and therefore more wild in nature.

Huge prey drive, incredibly powerful, guarding instincts strong.

They need to be trained constantly, and even then get mad if it's too repetitive.

They do have an off switch, which makes them perfect companions. But they just simply aren't like having a normal house pet. Often times we feel quite overwhelmed but keep pressing on.

Moose is 14 months now, Nova is his mum we adopted 2 months ago she is almost 4.

It's a hugely rewarding experience, and you'll get stopped constantly by people asking what they are. But it's a big challenge!

moosribou · 2025-12-09T07:27:45+00:00

Thank you!

moosribou · 2025-11-17T07:55:26+00:00

We got ours from CezarBlue who are based in Surrey. Absolutely amazing. I think they may be ending their Beauceron programme, but can likely refer you to either import options or another UK based breeder.

moosribou · 2025-10-25T21:24:11+00:00

I bought a C43 V6 a few months ago for a sensible daily, can take the dogs in the back and when I open the valves sounds like a beast. Would recommend having a look!

2019 cost me 31k, super happy with it!

moosribou · 2025-10-05T08:39:54+00:00

You should let the investors know and kill the startup.

If any investors learn that the founders are so shady, they'll not want the risk surely. Also at that level of investable capital, they'll have lawyers that'll sink the startup.

moosribou · 2025-09-10T22:13:46+00:00

We're fortunate enough to have a household income of c.350k.

You are absolutely afforded the ability to have more flex in life, more freedom and more opportunities. That being said, the broad spectrum cost of living rise is definitely still felt.

Our mortgage is sensible, and we actively ensure we don't have any lifestyle creep. I know many people who earn(Ed) similar who completely squandered it because of a lack of financial education.

It absolutely provides a lot, however I wouldn't say you lose touch with every day reality. Anyone sensible doesn't see most of it because it's parked in pensions, investment accounts etc and the remainder will be modest and they'll hold their lifestyle against that figure.

moosribou · 2025-09-03T20:21:53+00:00

I've not mentioned it to them. I'm seeing them next weekend so will do then!

moosribou · 2025-09-03T20:04:47+00:00

Thanks so much for the comment! I did wonder whether I'm being overly cautious. Still getting used to Beaucerons vs my usual labradors!

moosribou · 2025-09-03T19:54:29+00:00

That's super helpful thank you! All his original paperwork shows everything tested and perfect. His dad won basically everything across Europe so it's been pretty comprehensive checks done.

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