For companies that performed well, CEO hikes could touch double-digits

Economic, social and political fluctuations that prevailed during the decade’s worst slowdown impacted the salary drawn by CEOs and top brass in 2013, says Aon Hewitt’s Executive Compensation Survey 2013-14. Remuneration committees and HR professionals were anxious of any economic recovery, and therefore, CEO compensation like that of 2012, remained muted.

The Executive Compensation Survey 2013-14 report shared exclusively with ET shows the average salary increment for executive roles was 10% in 2013 compared to a median hike of 11-12% in 2012. However, CEO compensation for high-performing companies and individuals is expected to see a double-digit increase this year. Indian CEOs are also expected to manage global roles and India will be the regional headquarters for many transnational companies.

Data for this study, conducted during August-November of 2013 was provided by the top brass of 345 companies across 11 sectors. Salary figures of CEOs, direct reports to the CEO and that of other prominent players of the company were looked into. Here are some highlights.