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How Much Should Your CEO Earn?

Welcome to the first Thelander Digest, our monthly newsletter where we explore helpful compensation insights for private companies. Each month we’ll bring you an exclusive look at different areas within the compensation landscape. First up, CEO Compensation.

For years we have been asked if CEO experience makes a difference in compensation. The answer…YES!

Our data indicates:

  • First time CEOs are being replaced with 2nd and 3rd time CEOs as companies mature.
  • Experience makes a difference in building companies and raising money, since the majority of late-stage companies are led by multiple-time CEOs.
How much experience does you CEO have?

Total Cash by CEO Experience

In summary:

  • 2nd and 3rd time CEOs make more than 1st time CEOs across all levels of financing.
  • The median total cash for a first time CEO is $270,000 vs. $314,000 for a second time CEO and $322,500 for a third time CEO.

Want to learn more about CEO compensation? You can access our data on this and many other topics for FREE by participating in our Private Company Compensation Survey.

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