Grocery CEO Pay: Walmart, Target, Kroger, and More

Grocery CEOs at Walmart, Target, Kroger, and other supermarkets received multi-million-dollar compensation packages in 2024. Pay is largely tied to performance and stock awards. CEO pay has changed from a big number plus a bonus to more nuanced, complex incentives. Earned pay rose 17% at the median, driven by strong payouts under long-term performance plans.

Grocery CEOs at Walmart, Target, Kroger, and other supermarkets received substantial compensation packages in 2024. The pay structures have evolved significantly, with a greater emphasis on performance-based incentives and equity-based rewards. According to a report by WTW Global Executive Compensation Analysis Team (GECAT), while total direct compensation (TTDC) growth has slowed, the design and delivery of incentive pay have become more nuanced and complex [1].

The median earned pay rose by 17% in 2024, largely driven by strong payouts under long-term performance plans. This trend reflects the companies' efforts to align executive compensation with long-term performance and sustainability [1]. For instance, Walmart's CEO, Doug McMillon, received a total compensation of $27.4 million, primarily from stock awards valued at over $20 million, with a $1.5 million base salary [1]. Similarly, Target's Brian Cornell, who stepped down in 2024, received a total compensation of $20.4 million, with stock awards of $16 million, a base salary of $1.4 million, and a bonus of approximately $785,000 [1].

The compensation packages also reflect the companies' performance and growth. For example, Kroger's CEO, Rodney McMullen, received $15.6 million in total compensation, with a base salary of $1.4 million, stock awards of $10.6 million, and no incentive compensation due to his resignation [1]. Albertsons' Vivek Sankaran received $15.2 million in total compensation, with $11.5 million in stock awards, a base salary of $1.5 million, and over $2 million in non-equity incentive plan compensation [1].

Looking ahead to 2025, executive pay structures are expected to undergo further transformation. According to JRG Partners, companies are reassessing their executive pay strategies to align with performance, sustainability, and long-term growth. There is a stronger emphasis on pay-for-performance models, equity-based rewards, and ESG-linked incentives [2]. This shift reflects increased shareholder and public interest in corporate responsibility and long-term value creation.

In conclusion, the compensation packages of grocery CEOs in 2024 reflect a more nuanced and performance-driven approach to executive pay. While the median earned pay rose by 17%, the compensation packages also reflect the companies' performance and growth. As companies continue to evolve their executive pay strategies, the focus on long-term performance, sustainability, and ESG metrics is likely to increase.

References:
[1] https://www.thestreet.com/retail/walmart-target-kroger-ceos-lead-top-10-paid-grocery-ceos-list
[2] https://www.mk.co.kr/en/stock/11400495