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The Times of India Features Stanton Chase: Professional CEOs Dominate India’s Million-Dollar Salary Club

The Times of India Features Stanton Chase: Professional CEOs Dominate India’s Million-Dollar Salary Club

December 2025

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The Times of India featured exclusive data and insights from Stanton Chase on the dramatic rise of professional CEOs leading India’s largest companies. 

The analysis of BSE 200 companies reveals that professional CEOs earning over Rs 8 crore annually have surged 71% to 145 in FY25, up from 85 five years ago, while promoter CEO numbers remained largely flat.  
 
“Five years ago, promoter-led companies dominated many sectors. Today, professional CEOs are leading most of India’s large businesses and earning a premium,” said , Managing Partner. “This trend is a sign of India Inc becoming more institutional and future focused.”Amit Agarwal, Managing Partner. “This trend is a sign of India Inc becoming more institutional and future focused.” 

The study shows compensation structures have shifted, with performance-linked pay increasing as boards demand greater accountability. “More of a CEO’s earnings now depend on actual outcomes, including profits, cash flow and resilience,” noted Mala Chawla, Managing Partner. 

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