Are you searching for the risk analyst salary in the UK 2025? You are not alone. Many people interested in financial and corporate careers in the United Kingdom often ask: How much do risk analysts earn in the UK? What is the starting salary for freshers? How does pay differ in the financial sector?
This guide explains everything you need to know about the risk analyst salary in the UK 2025 — entry-level, freshers, and financial sector pay. Whether you are planning to enter the field, already working, or simply curious about career prospects, this article gives you clear and practical insights.
Why You Should Understand Risk Analyst Salaries in the UK
Knowing the salary expectations is important because:
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It helps you plan your career path realistically.
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It sets clear expectations for entry-level and future earnings.
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It helps you negotiate your salary effectively.
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It lets you compare risk analyst roles across sectors.
Risk analysts play a crucial role in organisations by identifying and managing potential financial, operational, and compliance risks.
Who is a Risk Analyst?
A risk analyst evaluates potential threats to an organisation’s assets, income, reputation, or operations. Their job involves:
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Identifying risks.
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Assessing their likelihood and impact.
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Recommending mitigation strategies.
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Monitoring and reporting on risk indicators.
Risk analysts are in demand in sectors such as:
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Banking and finance.
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Insurance.
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Consulting firms.
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Energy and utilities.
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Government and regulatory bodies.
Skills Required for a Risk Analyst Role
To succeed as a risk analyst, you need:
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Analytical and problem-solving skills.
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Good understanding of financial systems and markets.
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Strong communication and presentation skills.
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Knowledge of risk management frameworks and regulations.
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Proficiency in software tools like Excel, SQL, and risk modelling applications.
Entry-Level & Freshers Risk Analyst Salary in the UK 2025
If you’re just starting your career as a risk analyst, you can expect:
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Entry-level salary: £28,000 – £35,000 per year.
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Fresh graduate salary: £26,000 – £32,000 per year.
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Monthly pay: Around £2,200 – £2,900 before tax.
This depends on your education, the industry, and the location of the job. London and other major cities usually offer higher starting salaries.
Experienced & Senior Risk Analyst Salaries
With experience, salaries increase significantly:
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Mid-level risk analyst (3–5 years): £40,000 – £55,000/year.
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Senior risk analyst (5+ years): £60,000 – £80,000/year.
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Risk manager or head of risk: £85,000 – £120,000+/year.
Some financial institutions also offer performance bonuses that can add 10–50% of base salary annually.
Risk Analyst Salaries in the Financial Sector
The financial sector in the UK offers the highest pay for risk analysts because of the complexity and regulatory demands.
Here’s what you can expect in specific areas:
Banking
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Entry-level: £30,000 – £35,000
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Experienced: £50,000 – £70,000
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Senior/Manager: £90,000+
Insurance
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Entry-level: £28,000 – £32,000
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Experienced: £45,000 – £60,000
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Senior/Manager: £75,000 – £100,000+
Investment Firms & Asset Management
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Entry-level: £32,000 – £38,000
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Experienced: £55,000 – £80,000
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Senior/Manager: £100,000 – £150,000+
These figures can be even higher in London’s financial services sector, often referred to as The City.
Summary Table: Risk Analyst Salary in the UK 2025
| Career Stage / Sector | Yearly Salary (£) | Monthly Salary (£) |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (all sectors) | 28,000 – 35,000 | 2,200 – 2,900 |
| Freshers | 26,000 – 32,000 | 2,100 – 2,600 |
| Mid-Level (3–5 years) | 40,000 – 55,000 | 3,300 – 4,600 |
| Senior Analyst | 60,000 – 80,000 | 5,000 – 6,600 |
| Risk Manager | 85,000 – 120,000+ | 7,000 – 10,000 |
| Banking Sector | 30,000 – 90,000+ | 2,500 – 7,500 |
| Insurance Sector | 28,000 – 100,000+ | 2,300 – 8,300 |
| Investment/Asset Management | 32,000 – 150,000+ | 2,600 – 12,500 |
Factors That Affect Risk Analyst Salaries
Several factors influence what you can earn as a risk analyst:
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Location: Salaries in London and the South East are typically higher.
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Sector: Financial services pay the most, followed by energy and consulting.
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Experience: More experience and certifications mean higher pay.
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Qualifications: Holding a master’s degree, CFA, or FRM certification can boost earnings.
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Company Size: Larger organisations often offer better pay and benefits.
Benefits of Being a Risk Analyst
Aside from salary, risk analysts often enjoy benefits such as:
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Performance bonuses.
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Pension contributions.
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Health and life insurance.
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Flexible working arrangements.
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Professional development support.
How to Become a Risk Analyst in the UK
If you’re considering this career, here are the steps:
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Obtain a relevant degree (finance, economics, mathematics, business, or risk management).
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Gain internship or work experience in risk, compliance, or finance.
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Learn key software tools and build analytical skills.
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Pursue professional qualifications (e.g., FRM — Financial Risk Manager, or CFA).
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Apply for entry-level roles and build your career through experience.
High-Paying Risk Analyst Jobs in the UK
Some of the highest-paying risk analyst roles include:
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Credit Risk Analyst in Investment Banking.
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Market Risk Analyst at a Hedge Fund.
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Operational Risk Manager in a Global Bank.
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Quantitative Risk Analyst in Asset Management.
These roles require advanced skills and often come with significant bonuses.
Tips to Maximise Your Earnings as a Risk Analyst
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Gain specialist knowledge in financial markets or specific risk areas.
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Relocate to high-paying cities like London or Edinburgh.
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Obtain advanced professional certifications.
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Network within the industry to learn about better opportunities.
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Aim for roles in investment banking or asset management.
Frequently Asked Questions About Risk Analyst Salaries in the UK 2025
What is the starting salary for a risk analyst in the UK?
The starting salary is usually £26,000–£32,000 for fresh graduates.
Do risk analysts earn more in London?
Yes, salaries in London are typically 20–30% higher than the national average due to the cost of living and concentration of financial institutions.
Is the risk analyst career well paid?
Yes, it is considered a well-paying career with good progression and bonus opportunities.
Do you need a master’s degree to become a risk analyst?
No, but a master’s degree or professional certification can help you secure higher-paying roles.
Which sector pays the most for risk analysts?
Investment banking and asset management generally offer the highest salaries.
Final Thoughts: Risk Analyst Salary in the UK 2025
The risk analyst salary in the UK 2025 — entry-level, freshers & financial sector pay shows that this career offers competitive pay and excellent growth opportunities.
With starting salaries between £26,000–£35,000, and senior roles reaching £100,000+ in the financial sector, this profession rewards skills, experience, and expertise.
If you’re aiming to enter the field, focus on building your analytical abilities, gaining relevant experience, and pursuing professional qualifications.
With dedication, you can build a successful and financially rewarding career as a risk analyst.