What are the Earning Capabilities and Career Growth Opportunities for Fashion Managers?

18 Jul 2023

Fashion management offers the perfect secure career route for those who wish to combine business with fashion.

Earning capabilities and career growth opportunities for fashion managers in Ireland and internationally can vary based on factors such as the specific role, level of experience and the size and reputation of the brand. 

As Portobello Institute is based in the heart of Dublin City, we will explore the earning capabilities and career growth opportunities in Ireland first, and internationally later in the article. 

Earning Capabilities and Career Growth Opportunities for Fashion Managers in Ireland 

Earning Capabilities: Fashion managers in Ireland can earn competitive salaries, especially with significant experience and expertise in the industry. `

The average annual salary for fashion managers in Ireland ranges from €35,000 to €70,000 or more, depending on the level of responsibility, the scale of the company, and the specific sector of the fashion industry.

It's important to note that these figures are approximate and can vary significantly. 

Career Growth: Fashion management offers diverse career growth opportunities. Starting from entry-level positions professionals can progress to more senior roles.

With experience and a proven track record, individuals may have the opportunity to advance to executive-level positions, such as fashion directors, general managers, or even top-level management roles within fashion companies.

Ireland has a vibrant retail sector, including both local and international fashion brands. Fashion managers working for luxury brands or high-end retailers may have the potential for higher salaries due to the premium positioning and higher price points associated with luxury fashion. 

Ireland also has a growing fashion start-up scene, with emerging designers and entrepreneurs entering the industry.  

Fashion managers with an entrepreneurial mindset may have opportunities to work with start-ups or even start their own fashion ventures.  

Earning Capabilities and Career Growth as a Fashion Manager Internationally  

The earning capabilities and career growth opportunities for fashion managers can vary internationally based on several factors, including the country's economic conditions, the size and competitiveness of the fashion industry, and individual qualifications and experience. 

Earning Capabilities: Fashion managers in major fashion capitals and global fashion hubs, such as New York, London, Paris, Milan, and Tokyo, often have higher earning potential due to the concentration of luxury brands and high-end fashion markets in these cities.

Salaries can range from entry-level positions around $40,000 to $70,000 or more for mid-level roles, and potentially reach six-figure salaries for senior or executive-level positions.

Career Growth: Just like in Ireland, fashion management offers numerous opportunities for career growth internationally. With experience, expertise, and proven leadership skills, individuals can advance to top-level management positions such as fashion directors, creative directors, or chief executive officers (CEOs) within fashion companies. 

International career growth can involve opportunities to work with renowned fashion brands, gain exposure to diverse markets and cultures, and expand professional networks. 

Professionals may also explore avenues such as consulting, entrepreneurship, or pursuing advanced degrees in fashion-related fields to further enhance their career prospects. 

International career growth can encompass roles within various sectors of the fashion industry, including retail, e-commerce, luxury fashion, fast fashion, sustainability, and consulting.

Fashion managers with extensive industry knowledge and expertise may pursue careers as fashion consultants or freelancers.

This path offers flexibility, the potential for higher earning rates, and the ability to work with a variety of fashion brands and projects globally. 

Pursuing advanced education, industry certifications, or specialised training in areas such as luxury fashion management, sustainable fashion, digital marketing, or retail analytics can enhance earning potential and open doors to niche roles and higher-paying positions. 

It's important to note that earning capabilities and career growth opportunities can vary significantly based on individual skills, experience, market conditions, and the specific region or country of employment.  

Read More: Discover Fashion Management As a Profession

Portobello Institute offers a BA (Hons) in Fashion Management and a Postgraduate Cert in Fashion Management for those looking to kickstart or progress their career opportunities and earning potential as fashion managers. 

If you are interested in any of our fashion courses or have any questions you can book a consultation call with our expert fashion advisor Sarah Coyne here email sarah.coyne@portobelloinstitute.com or call 01 892 0041. 

Speak to an expert

Sarah Coyne


Education is a journey and the destination is a career that you love. I support the department that helps you to plan your journey so you can find the path that’s right for you. As I am often the first point of contact for many prospective students, I am excited to introduce students to the Portobello Institute experience. I enjoy learning about students’ ideas, goals, and passions, and this job allows me to do so.  

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