At senior level, the base salary is only one part of the deal, and often not the most important one. The terms around it decide how much you earn over time, how much authority you have and how protected you are if things change.
What to look at beyond base salary
Bonus
How it is measured, how much is guaranteed in year one and when it is paid.
Long-term incentives
Shares, options or deferred awards, and what happens to them if you leave.
Buy-out
Compensation for bonuses or awards you lose by resigning.
Title and reporting line
Who you report to, and whether you sit on the leadership team.
Remit and budget
The team, budget and decisions you will actually own.
Relocation and family
Housing, schooling, flights and support for your partner, if you are moving.
Notice and termination
Notice on both sides, and what you receive if the role ends early.
Restrictions
Any limits on working for competitors or approaching clients afterwards.
How to negotiate well
- 1Know your priorities. Decide which three terms matter most to you before any conversation.
- 2Ask for the full offer in writing. Review everything together, not piece by piece.
- 3Negotiate once, clearly. One well-prepared conversation beats several rounds of small requests.
- 4Explain the reason behind each ask. “This covers the bonus I forfeit” is easier to agree than a bare number.
- 5Use your search partner. A trusted intermediary can resolve sensitive points without straining the relationship with your future boss.
A great executive offer is not the highest number. It is the one that sets you up to succeed, and protects you if the plan changes.
Ameera Talent SolutionsBefore you sign
| Do you know exactly how your bonus is measured? | Yes / No |
| Will you lose any bonus or awards by resigning? | Yes / No |
| Is your reporting line confirmed in writing? | Yes / No |
| How many months’ notice apply on each side? | Number |
| Have you taken advice on the contract terms? | Yes / No |
General guidance only, not legal or financial advice. Take professional advice on your contract.
Negotiating a senior offer?
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