Who Works at Band 9?
Chief executives of smaller trusts, executive directors.
All NHS Pay Bands
| Band | Salary Range | Take Home/Month |
|---|---|---|
| Band 1 | £24,169 – £24,169 | £1,743 – £1,743 |
| Band 2 | £24,169 – £25,674 | £1,743 – £1,834 |
| Band 3 | £25,674 – £28,093 | £1,834 – £1,979 |
| Band 4 | £28,093 – £30,827 | £1,979 – £2,143 |
| Band 5 | £30,827 – £38,468 | £2,143 – £2,601 |
| Band 6 | £37,890 – £46,044 | £2,567 – £3,056 |
| Band 7 | £46,148 – £53,219 | £3,062 – £3,452 |
| Band 8a | £53,755 – £60,504 | £3,478 – £3,804 |
| Band 8b | £62,215 – £72,293 | £3,887 – £4,374 |
| Band 8c | £73,664 – £86,074 | £4,440 – £5,040 |
| Band 8d | £86,074 – £101,390 | £5,040 – £5,757 |
| Band 9 | £105,385 – £121,271 | £5,884 – £6,357 |
NHS Pension
NHS employees contribute to one of the most generous pension schemes in the UK. Employee contributions range from 5.1% to 13.5% depending on salary. On a mid-band salary of £113,328, pension contributions are approximately £9,066/year. This reduces take home but builds a very valuable defined benefit pension.
About NHS Band 9
Band 9 sits at the apex of Agenda for Change. Income above £100,000 triggers the Personal Allowance taper, creating an effective 60% marginal rate between £100,000 and £125,140. Pension salary sacrifice to bring adjusted net income below £100,000 is strongly recommended — this can save over £5,000 in tax. See £100,000 salary breakdown for the detailed impact.
Typical Band 9 Roles
Common roles at Band 9 include: Chief nurses, chief operating officers, very senior executive leaders. The pay range is £105,385-£121,271, with progression based on length of service and competency. All NHS staff benefit from the NHS Pension Scheme, generous annual leave (27-33 days plus bank holidays), and access to NHS discounts.
Get your exact take home including pension deductions
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