Several CEOs are reported to earn an annual salary of just $1, making them the lowest paid in terms of nominal compensation. This symbolic salary often indicates that the CEO's primary compensation comes from other sources, such as stock options, bonuses, or equity, aligning their financial success directly with the company's performance.
CEOs Earning a $1 Annual Salary
According to reports on low-paid executives, some notable figures voluntarily take a nominal $1 salary. This strategy is frequently adopted by founders or leaders who have substantial ownership stakes in their companies.
Prominent Executives with a $1 Salary
The following individuals have been identified as taking an annual salary of $1:
| CEO Name | Company | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Meg Whitman | Hewlett-Packard | $1 |
| Richard Kinder | Kinder Morgan | $1 |
Meg Whitman, as the CEO of Hewlett-Packard, and Richard Kinder, the CEO and founder of Kinder Morgan, are both notable examples of executives who have adopted this $1 salary structure.
Other Low-Paid CEOs
While Meg Whitman and Richard Kinder are explicitly noted for their $1 salaries, several other prominent CEOs are also recognized for their low official compensation, often opting for significant equity-based remuneration instead of a large salary. These include:
- Mark Zuckerberg
- Sergey Brin
- Carl Icahn
- Richard Hayne
- John Mackey
- Larry Page
These individuals demonstrate a trend among top executives, particularly in the tech and investment sectors, to forgo traditional high salaries in favor of performance-linked compensation, which can be far more lucrative if the company thrives. This approach aligns their personal financial interests with the long-term success and shareholder value of their corporations.
