Content Manager job description

This page details everything you need to know about the Content Marketing Manager job title. From key responsibilities through to how to approach content recruitment.

More job descriptions

What does a Content Manager do?

Content Managers grow a business' online presence by managing, creating and optimising content across various platforms.

Part of the digital marketing team, they play a pivotal role in ensuring a brand stays front of their audience's mind. Traditionally focused on written content, the role has now expanded to include video and audio content.

Key responsibilities

Though a job description can change from business to business, here's what a typical day looks like for a Content Manager:

  • Lead the content strategy: Use data and insights to create a winning content strategy. Ensure efficient content creation processes and prioritise projects within the content calendar.
  • Create and distribute content: Plan, execute and distribute high-quality content to achieve business goals. This includes web content, social media content and collateral required for marketing campaigns, including emails, blog posts and ads.
  • Deliver brand guidelines: Create best-practice guides for content creation by agencies, marketing and communications teams.
  • Lead SEO efforts: Grow web traffic and leads with an effective keyword strategy. Deliver short-form and long-form digital content with SEO best-practice in mind. 
  • Manage relationships: Work with third-party agencies and internal teams to create content that raises brand awareness. Content Managers work closely with the design, website, marketing and communications teams. Together they ensure a cohesive message and brand identity.
  • Proofread and edit: Ensure all content created aligns by proofreading and editing.
  • Explore AI and technology: Stay on top of the latest technology to create effective processes. For instance, staying aware of the latest developments in artificial intelligence.
  • Regular reporting: Run regular reports on the impact of content across channels, including web traffic and social media reach. 


Skills and requirements

When hiring for a Digital Content Manager, you should search for professionals with the following skills:

  • Excellent writing and communications skills, with knowledge of video and audio content creation
  • Minimum of three years' experience in a content role
  • Proven experience in a management role is ideal
  • Knowledge and/or passion for the industry
  • Understanding of SEO best-practice
  • Hands-on experience with a content management system (CMS)
  • An interest in new technologies to always improve production processes


How much do Content Managers earn?

The average permanent salary for a Content Manager role is £40,000 - £60,000. A contractor can expect a day rate of £200 - £300.

For more information about pay, download our content and social media salary guide below.

Salary guides
Bar chart showing salary comparison for content manager roles at junior (£40K), mid (£50K), and senior (£60K) levels with red, blue, and green bars.

Career path & progression

As Bill Gates famously said, "Content is king." This means that businesses across all industries are actively searching for Content Marketing Managers for their content team. Plus, marketers can further their career in one of these roles.

Digital Content Managers with an interest in social media might consider moving to a Social Media Manager role. In this role, you'll focus on increasing brand awareness and generating leads through social media.

Learn more

Candidates with a passion for content marketing might pursue the Head of Content role. With experience in distributing content across social media, this is a great move for those expanding their skill set. 

In this role, marketers will be responsible for managing the entire content calendar. They will tailor content to specific audiences to drive brand and audience growth.

Eventually, Content Managers might pursue the Marketing Director role. Marketing Directors are responsible for overseeing the entire marketing strategy, team and budget. The management experience you gain throughout your career is crucial for this senior leadership role.

Learn more

Ready to hire a Content Manager? Get in touch to see how we can help!

Liz Hopkins Senior Director

Let’s talk