Top CEO Salaries President Income and Earnings

May 2024 · 15 minute read

In the world of corporate leadership, executive compensation has long been a topic of discussion. It is no secret that CEOs of major companies often earn significant salaries and bonuses. But just how much do these top executives make? Let’s take a closer look at some of the highest-paid CEOs in recent years and delve into the details of their compensation packages.

top ceo salaries

Key Takeaways

Top CEO Salaries in 2021

When it comes to CEO compensation trends, 2021 saw some jaw-dropping numbers. According to data from Bloomberg, the highest-paid CEOs in 2021 were Elon Musk of Tesla, Robert Scaringe of Rivian Automotive, Tim Cook of Apple, Peter Rawlinson of Lucid, Tom Siebel of C3.ai, Sue Nabi of Coty, Joe Bae of KKR, Tomer Weingarten of SentinelOne, Alex Karp of Palantir Technologies, and Sid Sijbrandij of GitLab.

These top executives commanded total annual compensations ranging from $263 million to a staggering $10.077 billion. These figures demonstrate the significant wealth disparity between CEOs and the average worker, and shed light on the ongoing discussions surrounding CEO compensation and income inequality.

These CEO compensation trends reflect the continued success and influence of these individuals in their respective industries. Whether it’s Elon Musk revolutionizing the electric vehicle market or Tim Cook leading Apple to new heights, these CEOs have undoubtedly made a substantial impact on their companies and the global economy.

The compensation packages of these high-earning CEOs typically consist of a combination of salary, bonuses, and significant stock awards or options. These benefits allow CEOs to benefit directly from the financial performance and success of the companies they lead.

While the vast earnings of these top CEOs may raise eyebrows, it is crucial to consider the responsibilities and challenges they face in their roles. Running a large multinational corporation brings with it immense pressure and requires exceptional leadership skills. The market demand for top talent in these positions often drives up compensation packages to attract and retain the best individuals.

Furthermore, these CEO salaries set the stage for discussions about income inequality and the distribution of wealth in society. Critics argue that the vast earnings of top CEOs contribute to wealth disparities and exacerbate social and economic inequality. The topic of executive compensation remains a subject of debate and scrutiny.

Stay tuned for the next section, where we delve into the extraordinary earnings of Elon Musk, the top-earning CEO of 2021.

Elon Musk – The Top-Earning CEO

When it comes to top-earning CEOs, Elon Musk stands at the pinnacle. As the CEO of Tesla, Musk’s unconventional compensation package allowed him to amass incredible wealth in 2021. Despite accepting no salary from the company, Musk’s total compensation reached an astonishing $10.077 billion.

Rather than relying on a traditional salary, Musk’s compensation was tied to stock options based on Tesla’s market capitalization and growth milestones. This unique approach resulted in substantial earnings for the visionary CEO.

By leveraging his stock options, Musk had the opportunity to purchase Tesla stock at a discounted rate, further fueling his financial success. His net worth is reported to be $194 billion, cementing his position as the second-richest person in the world.

Elon Musk’s remarkable compensation package and financial achievements are a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and the impact of Tesla’s success in the electric vehicle market.

Elon Musk - The Top-Earning CEO

Elon Musk’s Compensation Breakdown

CategoryAmount (in billions)
Stock Options$9.8
Other Benefits$0.277

Table: Elon Musk’s Compensation Breakdown

Robert Scaringe – CEO of Rivian Automotive

Robert Scaringe is the CEO of Rivian Automotive, a prominent player in the electric vehicle market. In 2021, Scaringe earned a total compensation of $2.289 billion, placing him among the highest-paid CEOs in the automotive industry. Rivian, a direct competitor to Tesla, has gained significant attention for its innovative electric vehicles and sustainable transportation solutions.

Scaringe’s compensation package includes a generous salary, various perks, and substantial stock and option awards. These financial incentives reflect the company’s commitment to rewarding exceptional leadership and driving the success of Rivian in a competitive market.

Rivian Automotive has made a name for itself with its lineup of all-electric vehicles, which includes the R1T pickup truck and the R1S SUV. These vehicles have garnered praise for their advanced technology, impressive range, and commitment to sustainability.

As of 2021, Rivian had secured substantial investments from major companies like Amazon and Ford, further cementing its position as a key player in the electric vehicle industry.

The Rise of Rivian Automotive

Rivian Automotive was founded in 2009 by Robert Scaringe with the goal of creating sustainable mobility solutions for a rapidly changing world. The company’s mission to produce electric vehicles that are capable, efficient, and environmentally friendly has resonated with consumers and investors alike.

With its commitment to innovation, Rivian has captured the attention of the market and secured significant funding to support its growth. As the demand for electric vehicles continues to rise, Rivian stands poised to make a significant impact in the automotive industry.

In addition to its lineup of consumer vehicles, Rivian has also expanded its offerings to include electric delivery vans and other commercial solutions. This diversification positions Rivian as a leader in the electric vehicle market, catering to both individual consumers and businesses.

Rivian’s Commitment to Sustainability

One of the key distinguishing factors of Rivian Automotive is its dedication to sustainability. The company strives to create electric vehicles that not only provide exceptional performance but also have a minimal impact on the environment.

Rivian’s focus on sustainable practices extends beyond the design and manufacturing of its vehicles. The company has demonstrated a commitment to environmental conservation by partnering with organizations dedicated to reforestation efforts. In addition, Rivian is actively investing in renewable energy sources to power its charging infrastructure and reduce the carbon footprint of its operations.

Robert Scaringe - CEO of Rivian Automotive

Company NameTotal Compensation (2021)Notable Achievements
Rivian Automotive$2.289 billion– CEO Robert Scaringe

– Leading competitor to Tesla

– Innovative electric vehicle lineup

– Partnerships with major companies (Amazon, Ford)

– Commitment to sustainability

Tim Cook – CEO of Apple

Tim Cook, the CEO of Apple, is widely recognized as one of the highest paid tech CEOs in the world. In 2021, Cook earned a total compensation of $853 million, making him a prominent figure in the executive compensation landscape.

As the leader of one of the most influential technology companies, Cook’s substantial earnings reflect his significant contributions to Apple’s success. With a diverse compensation package that includes a CEO salary, bonus, and substantial stock awards, Cook’s total compensation highlights his leadership and the value he brings to the company.

Under Cook’s guidance, Apple has continued to innovate and dominate the technology industry. From the introduction of groundbreaking products like the iPhone and iPad to the expansion of services like Apple Music and Apple TV+, Apple’s success can be attributed, in part, to Cook’s strategic direction.

With a focus on customer experience and product excellence, Cook has maintained Apple’s position as a global leader in technology. His compensation is a testament to the company’s growth and his ability to drive Apple’s continued success.

Tim Cook - CEO of Apple

Peter Rawlinson – CEO of Lucid

Peter Rawlinson, the CEO and CTO of Lucid Motors, had an outstanding 2021, with a total compensation of $575 million. As the leader of Lucid Motors, a prominent competitor to Tesla, Rawlinson played a crucial role in the company’s success and growth in the electric vehicle industry.

Lucid Motors CEO Peter Rawlinson

Lucid Motors focuses on producing luxury electric vehicles that compete directly with Tesla’s lineup. Under Rawlinson’s leadership, Lucid has gained recognition for its innovative technology and commitment to sustainability.

Rawlinson’s compensation package reflects his valuable contributions to the company. Apart from his salary, he received substantial bonuses, perks, and significant stock awards. This comprehensive compensation package demonstrates the company’s appreciation for his leadership and dedication.

Lucid Motors’ success in the electric vehicle market and Rawlinson’s notable earnings highlight the power and potential of the industry. As the demand for sustainable transportation continues to rise, companies like Lucid Motors, led by visionary CEOs like Peter Rawlinson, play a crucial role in shaping the future of mobility.

Tom Siebel – CEO of C3.ai

Tom Siebel is the CEO of C3.ai, a leading enterprise artificial intelligence software provider. In 2021, Siebel earned a total compensation of $343 million, highlighting his success as a top executive in the field of artificial intelligence.

C3.ai specializes in delivering AI solutions to industries such as healthcare, finance, and manufacturing. Under Siebel’s leadership, the company has gained recognition for its innovative approach to leveraging AI technology.

Siebel’s compensation package primarily consisted of option awards, indicating the confidence that the company’s stakeholders have in his strategic vision and ability to drive growth. His earnings are a testament to the strong performance of both Siebel and C3.ai in the market.

With his extensive experience and expertise in artificial intelligence, Tom Siebel has established himself as one of the top CEOs in the industry. His leadership at C3.ai continues to shape the future of AI-driven solutions.

Tom Siebel - CEO of C3.ai

YearTotal Compensation
2021$343 million

Sue Nabi – CEO of Coty

Sue Nabi, the CEO of Coty, a beauty company, made waves as the only woman featured in the top 10 highest-paid CEOs list. In 2021, Nabi’s total compensation reached an impressive $283 million. Her package included a competitive salary, enticing perks, and substantial stock awards. As a female executive in a male-dominated industry, Nabi’s presence among the elite earners highlights the persistent lack of diversity at the highest levels of corporate leadership.

While Nabi’s achievement is a testament to her exceptional skills and qualifications, it also underscores the underrepresentation of women and people of color among highly compensated CEOs. Despite progress in recent years, the glass ceiling remains intact, revealing the ongoing need for increased diversity and inclusion in executive positions.

female CEO Sue Nabi

Joe Bae – Co-CEO of KKR

Joe Bae, the co-CEO of KKR, a private equity firm, achieved remarkable success, earning a total compensation of $279 million in 2021. Bae’s comprehensive compensation package, which included a competitive salary, attractive bonus, enticing perks, and significant stock awards, demonstrates his prominent position in the private equity industry. As a key leader at KKR, Bae has played a crucial role in the company’s growth and success.

In today’s dynamic financial landscape, private equity firms like KKR play a vital role in driving investments and generating considerable returns. As co-CEO, Bae’s strategic leadership and expertise contribute to KKR’s ability to identify lucrative investment opportunities, create value for stakeholders, and deliver substantial returns.

Joe Bae – Co-CEO of KKR2021 Compensation
Total Compensation$279 million
Salary$XX million
Bonus$XX million
Perks$XX million
Stock Awards$XX million

Bae’s considerable compensation underscores the significant contributions private equity CEOs make to the financial industry. As companies seek high-performing leaders to guide their investment strategies, the compensation for finance executives like Bae remains competitive, confirming the increasingly pivotal role private equity plays in shaping today’s business landscape.

Joe Bae Co-CEO of KKR

As the financial sector continues to evolve, private equity leaders like Joe Bae play a crucial role in driving growth, creating value, and generating substantial returns for investors. Their strategic vision and operational expertise shape the future of the companies they lead, making them key players in the global financial landscape.

Tomer Weingarten – CEO of SentinelOne

Tomer Weingarten is the CEO of SentinelOne, a leading cybersecurity software company. In 2021, he earned a total compensation of $275 million, highlighting his significant impact in the industry. Weingarten’s compensation package includes a competitive salary, generous bonus, and substantial option awards. His earnings reflect the growing importance and value placed on cybersecurity in the technology sector.

SentinelOne is at the forefront of providing advanced cybersecurity solutions to organizations globally. The company’s cutting-edge technology and innovative approach to threat detection and prevention have earned it a strong reputation in the industry. Under Weingarten’s leadership, SentinelOne has witnessed tremendous growth and success, solidifying its position as a trusted cybersecurity partner for businesses worldwide.

“As the threat landscape continues to evolve, strong cybersecurity measures have become more critical than ever. SentinelOne’s mission is to empower organizations with the tools and expertise needed to defend against sophisticated cyber attacks,” said Tomer Weingarten, CEO of SentinelOne.

Highlighted achievements during Weingarten’s tenure as CEO include:

With Weingarten’s leadership, SentinelOne continues to demonstrate its commitment to pushing the boundaries of cybersecurity technology and protecting organizations from emerging threats.

Tomer Weingarten’s Leadership Philosophy

As a visionary leader, Weingarten believes in the power of collaboration and innovation to drive meaningful change in the cybersecurity landscape. He fosters a company culture that encourages creativity, continuous learning, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Under his guidance, SentinelOne has attracted top talent from the cybersecurity industry, ensuring the development and delivery of world-class solutions.

Key HighlightsDetails
CEO:Tomer Weingarten
Company:SentinelOne
Industry:Cybersecurity
Total Compensation (2021):$275 million
Company Focus:Advanced threat detection and response solutions

Tomer Weingarten - CEO of SentinelOne

Alex Karp – CEO of Palantir Technologies

Alex Karp, the CEO of Palantir Technologies, is a prominent figure in the field of data analytics. In 2021, Karp earned a total compensation of $264 million, making him one of the highest-paid data analytics CEOs in the industry.

Palantir Technologies is renowned for its artificial intelligence-powered data analysis solutions. The company specializes in assisting organizations in making informed decisions by leveraging the power of data. Under Karp’s leadership, Palantir has revolutionized the way businesses approach data analytics, helping them uncover valuable insights and drive growth.

As a leader in the field, Karp’s compensation package includes not only a salary but also stock awards and significant options. This comprehensive package reflects the company’s success and acknowledges Karp’s significant contributions to the growth and innovation of Palantir Technologies.

With Palantir’s advanced data analytics capabilities and Karp’s guidance, businesses have the opportunity to unlock the true potential of their data and gain a competitive advantage in the market. Through data-driven insights, organizations can streamline operations, identify trends, and make strategic decisions that drive long-term success.

Palantir Technologies Data Analytics

CompanyCEOAnnual Compensation (2021)
Palantir TechnologiesAlex Karp$264 million

Sid Sijbrandij – CEO of GitLab

Sid Sijbrandij, the CEO of GitLab, is a prominent figure in the software development industry. In 2021, Sijbrandij’s total compensation reached an impressive $263 million, thanks to his role at the helm of GitLab, a widely used software development platform.

As CEO, Sijbrandij’s compensation package includes significant stock and option awards, reflecting his leadership and the value he brings to the company. GitLab, known for its collaboration and application development platform, has gained popularity among developers worldwide. Under Sijbrandij’s guidance, it continues to provide innovative solutions for software development teams.

Sid Sijbrandij’s remarkable earnings are a testament to his success in the software development industry and the impact of GitLab’s platform. As a respected CEO, Sijbrandij strives to lead GitLab towards further growth and expansion, empowering software developers globally. His achievements make him a noteworthy figure among software development CEOs.

FAQ

What are some frequently asked questions about top CEO salaries?

Here are some common questions people have about CEO salaries and compensation.

Which CEOs earned the highest salaries in 2021?

The top-paid CEOs in 2021 were Elon Musk of Tesla, Robert Scaringe of Rivian Automotive, Tim Cook of Apple, Peter Rawlinson of Lucid, Tom Siebel of C3.ai, Sue Nabi of Coty, Joe Bae of KKR, Tomer Weingarten of SentinelOne, Alex Karp of Palantir Technologies, and Sid Sijbrandij of GitLab.

How much did Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, earn in 2021?

Elon Musk earned a total compensation of .077 billion in 2021, primarily through stock options based on Tesla’s market capitalization and growth milestones.

What was the total compensation of Robert Scaringe, the CEO of Rivian Automotive, in 2021?

Robert Scaringe earned a total compensation of .289 billion in 2021, including salary, perks, and significant stock and option awards.

How much did Tim Cook, the CEO of Apple, earn in 2021?

In 2021, Tim Cook earned a total compensation of 3 million, which included a CEO salary, bonus, and substantial stock awards.

What was the total compensation of Peter Rawlinson, the CEO and CTO of Lucid Motors, in 2021?

Peter Rawlinson earned a total compensation of 5 million in 2021, which included a salary, bonus, perks, and significant stock awards.

How much did Tom Siebel, the CEO of C3.ai, earn in 2021?

Tom Siebel earned a total compensation of 3 million in 2021, primarily through option awards.

What was the total compensation of Sue Nabi, the CEO of Coty, in 2021?

Sue Nabi earned a total compensation of 3 million in 2021, including a salary, perks, and significant stock awards. She was the only woman included in the top 10 highest-paid CEOs list.

How much did Joe Bae, the co-CEO of KKR, earn in 2021?

Joe Bae earned a total compensation of 9 million in 2021, including a salary, bonus, perks, and significant stock awards.

What was the total compensation of Tomer Weingarten, the CEO of SentinelOne, in 2021?

Tomer Weingarten earned a total compensation of 5 million in 2021, including a salary, bonus, and significant option awards.

How much did Alex Karp, the CEO of Palantir Technologies, earn in 2021?

In 2021, Alex Karp earned a total compensation of 4 million, which included a salary, stock awards, and significant options.

What was the total compensation of Sid Sijbrandij, the CEO of GitLab, in 2021?

Sid Sijbrandij earned a total compensation of 3 million in 2021, primarily through significant stock and option awards.

ncG1vNJzZmiykZi3sLTNrKanZpOkunDAzqlknJ2fYsCiuMCroJ6rXw%3D%3D