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  • Writer's pictureRobert Adelson

Startup C-Level Executive Salary, Equity and Severance Compensation Package

Three weeks ago, on Tuesday March 28, 2023, the executive career advancement website IvyExec published an article I wrote on Startup C-Level Executive Salary, Equity and Severance Compensation Package.


This new article offers contract terms to negotiate for executives senior executive looking to move up to C-level by joining a startup. Being a startup C-level executive can be rewarding in many ways. But taking that role has many risks too, so it is wise to go in with a job offer that protects you from the risks and ensures that if the startup succeeds, you will share financially in that success.


To help you negotiate your C-level job offer with the startup, this article discusses – • Cash compensation expectations – base salary and bonus, • Startup equity to seek in a funded vs unfunded startup, • Huge tax opportunity of QSBS if you structure it right, and • Severance triggers and package key terms to seek.




IvyExec hosts articles and webinars from experts in the career, leadership, and business spaces who wish to share their knowledge with our audience. In April 2021, I was invited to write for IvyExec since it seeks original content on the topics of career development, leadership, and business strategy as it applies to senior-level and C-Suite professionals. IvyExec blog posts and webinars are shared with its community of more than 2 million members on its website, in its newsletter, and on its social media channels. https://www.ivyexec.com/career-advice/write-for-us/ IvyExec claims a “Community of 2.5M+ Leaders”.



It is my hope that this article will be helpful to those offered or considering and offer for a C-level position in a startup company. If you or any colleague of yours has a need in this area, please do reach out to me at rob@attorneyadelson.com.

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