The top 5 in-demand careers in Creative and Digital Media

The Creative Industries is a growing sector and according to employment statistics from the Department of Digital, Culture, Media & Sport, there was almost three times more growth in jobs in this area compared to all other job areas. In 2019 over 80% of UK consumer entertainment spending was on digital media - music, video and games - with just a fifth spent on 'traditional' media such as books, magazines and newspaper (Entertainment Retailers Association). More people are signing up to streaming services, with music streaming topping £1billion. Whilst it can be a highly competitive sector to break into, there are skills shortages particularly in the following roles: 1. Animation Animation is the process of displaying still images in a rapid sequence to create the illusion of movement and showing emotion to tell a story. Most studios are London-based although around a third are based in animation hubs such as Manchester, Bristol and Cardiff. Entry level roles tend to earn between £16,000 and £20,000 and there‚ the potential to earn considerably more as your career develops. 2. Interactive Media Interactive media designers create the overall look and feel of a wide range of interactive communication products. Using text, data, graphics, sound, animation and other digital and visual effects, they may work on projects such as electronic games, online learning materials and interactive television. Although there are no set academic entry requirements, most entrants are graduates with average salaries starting from £15,500 and rising to a potential of over £50,000. 3. Gaming and Visual Effects Visual effects artists create photoreal, digitally-generated imagery. The role requires the seamless integration of these effects into live action in feature films, television and, increasingly, online and console gaming. It is possible to enter this career without a degree, but the majority of new entrants have studied at higher education level to achieve a HND or a degree. The average salary for a visual effects artists with one to three years of experience in the industry is £27,000. 4. Line Producer Line producers are at the heart of a production: hiring the crew, allocating the money and making sure the filming is done safely, creatively, on budget and on time. They are typically the most senior member of the production team, second only to the producers. Line producers generally start as runners or trainees in the production office and work their way up to becoming production coordinators and then line producers. Starting salaries for assistant producers may range from around £18,000 to £25,000 and can rise to over £55,000 with experience. 5. Web Developer As digital technologies advance, it has driven the need for skilled web developers to enhance companies‚Äô online presence and grow their e-commerce business. There is currently a skills shortage for programming and development roles so opportunities are good for those with the right combination of skills. Entry level roles start at between £19,000 to £25,000 and can rise up to £60,000 as a lead developer. If you have a passion for working in media and want to explore your options in this diverse and creative field, why not take a look at our Creative and Digital Media courses, which are designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills and experience you need to embark on this exciting career. Sources Creative Industries Prospects ScreenSkills Target Careers