Navigating job changes as a high-earning sales professional in Ireland

The Irish job market for sales professionals is highly competitive, particularly for those already earning high salaries in roles such as Sales Manager, Senior Sales Manager, Head of Sales or Sales Director.

While earning a high salary is a great achievement, it can also present unique challenges when trying to make a career move.

Whether you’re building a long-term career in sales or considering one of several possible career transitions, securing a new position that matches or exceeds your current salary can be difficult.

Here are some of the key questions high-earners face when looking for a new role in Ireland and some strategies for navigating the process.

What is a „good“ base salary for sales professionals in Ireland?

Base salaries for sales professionals vary depending on experience, sector and location. Here’s what you can expect for different roles in Ireland:

• Sales Executive salary: EUR 40,000 to 60,000
• Sales Manager salary: EUR 80,000 to 110,000
• Senior Sales Manager salary: EUR 95,000 to 125,000
• Head of Sales salary: EUR 120,000 to 160,000
• Sales Director salary: EUR 140,000 to 180,000

Base salaries in Dublin are often higher than in other areas because there’s a higher cost of living and company headquarters are often based there.

When applying for sales roles, professionals at all levels will consider their total compensation package rather than base salary alone.

Typically, base salary makes up 60-80% of total compensation while commission takes up the remaining 20-30%. OTE, bonus opportunities and commission structure are often major decision-making factors when evaluating a potential career move.

What are your salary expectations?

When asked „What are your salary expectations?“ during an interview, it’s essential to answer confidently and be prepared.

Here are some tips:

1. Research market rates and salary ranges within your sector
2. Consider total compensation, including bonus, commission structure, stock options and benefits
3. Give a salary range that reflects your experience and market value

The key is to be flexible but firm. Ensure you know the average salary for positions within your sector and understand how your experience compares with other sales professionals in the market.

Speaking with specialist recruiters can also provide valuable career advice and insight into what employers are currently willing to pay.

How does salary protection work?

You might consider salary protection if you’re concerned about income fluctuations during a job transition or career change.

This protection is income insurance that covers a portion of your salary if you’re unable to work due to illness or injury.

It’s especially useful for high earners who want peace of mind during career transitions or periods of instability.

Things to consider:

• Salary protection covers up to 75% of your salary
• It’s particularly useful for commission-based sales roles
• Policies differ, so check waiting periods and exclusions

Is salary protection worth it?

Whether salary protection is worth it depends on your personal circumstances and career path.

It may be worth it if:

• You rely on commission or bonus income
• You have a mortgage or significant financial commitments
• You work in a high-pressure salesperson role

For high-earning sales professionals, protecting your salary can be a wise decision. Salary protection can provide security while navigating a job transition or exploring a new career path.

How often should you get a pay rise in Ireland?

In Ireland, salary reviews typically happen annually, although some companies may conduct them more frequently for high-performing employees.

Factors influencing pay rises include:

• Hitting sales targets consistently
• Company performance and revenue growth
• Demand for sales professionals in the job market

Performance is directly linked to compensation in sales. Strong performers who consistently exceed sales targets and contribute to business growth are often best positioned to negotiate salary increases and support their career progression.

For those working in senior sales roles, advocating for your achievements is often essential to securing compensation that reflects your contribution.

Can an employer reduce your salary in Ireland?

While it’s uncommon for an employer to reduce your salary, it can happen under certain circumstances.

Your employer can’t reduce your salary without consent unless:

• Your contract includes a clause allowing salary adjustments
• You agree to a reduction as part of company restructuring
• The business is in financial distress and follows appropriate legal procedures

If you’re concerned about salary cuts, make sure you understand your employment contract and rights under Irish law.

Can your PAYE tax increase when moving jobs?

Your PAYE (Pay As You Earn) tax may increase due to:

• A salary increase pushing you into a higher tax bracket
• Changes in tax credits
• Receiving a bonus or commission payment

If your PAYE has unexpectedly increased, you can check your tax bands on the Revenue website.

What is the Save As You Earn scheme in Ireland?

Your current or potential employer may have a Save As You Earn (SAYE) scheme which allows employees to:

• Save money directly from salary
• Buy shares in the company at a discounted rate
• Benefit from tax-free interest on savings

It’s a useful way to build long-term wealth and complement your broader career development goals.

Is your salary preventing you from getting another role?

This can be a concern for sales professionals who are accustomed to higher compensation packages, including bonuses and commissions. Salary expectations may make it harder to find a suitable role, but it’s not impossible.

Here are some tips on how to stay competitive while maintaining a high salary:

• Target high-paying sectors such as technology, healthcare and financial services
• Upskill through relevant certifications, including Salesforce and project management qualifications
• Highlight transferable skills such as relationship building, leadership and commercial negotiation
• Demonstrate your ability to develop and manage a sales pipeline
• Strengthen your sales strategy capabilities
• Consider bonus opportunities, commission structure and equity alongside base salary

Whether you’re a Sales Executive looking for progression, an Account Executive ready for greater responsibility, an Account Manager seeking a career change or a Sales Director exploring new challenges, focusing on continuous development can improve your prospects.

When considering moving jobs, make sure you conduct a thorough self-assessment, understand your market value and evaluate how each opportunity supports your long-term career path.

With the right approach, sales professionals can successfully navigate career transitions while maintaining both financial and professional growth.

Get in touch today to discuss the next steps in your career.