What are Typical Salaries for Tech Startup CEOs, CTOs, and COOs Across Funding Rounds in India?

The salaries for key roles in tech startups in India can vary widely due to numerous factors such as the funding stage of the startup, the industry, location, and market conditions. Here, we provide a general overview of the typical salaries for CEOs, CTOs, and COOs at different funding milestones.

Pre-Seed Stage

At the pre-seed stage, where the startup is in its initial phase, the yearly salaries for these key roles are:

CEO: 10-20 lakhs per annum (approximately $14,000 - $28,000) CTO: 8-15 lakhs per annum (approximately $11,200 - $21,000) COO: 8-15 lakhs per annum (approximately $11,200 - $21,000)

The salaries in this stage are relatively low due to the early phase of the startup. It's worth noting that equity compensation is often provided, which can be a significant portion of their total remuneration, especially in early-stage startups.

Seed Stage

As the startup progresses to the seed stage, the salaries increase:

CEO: 15-30 lakhs per annum (approximately $21,000 - $42,000) CTO: 12-20 lakhs per annum (approximately $16,800 - $28,000) COO: 12-20 lakhs per annum (approximately $16,800 - $28,000)

The increase in salaries is a reflection of the startup's growing traction and the need for experienced professionals to guide the organization through this critical phase.

Series A

Reaching the Series A funding round brings a significant jump in salaries:

CEO: 30-50 lakhs per annum (approximately $42,000 - $70,000) CTO: 20-35 lakhs per annum (approximately $28,000 - $49,000) COO: 20-35 lakhs per annum (approximately $28,000 - $49,000)

This stage marks substantial growth, and higher salaries reflect the responsibilities that come with leading a more established startup.

Series B

The Series B round further elevates these salaries:

CEO: 50-80 lakhs per annum (approximately $70,000 - $112,000) CTO: 35-60 lakhs per annum (approximately $49,000 - $84,000) COO: 35-60 lakhs per annum (approximately $49,000 - $84,000)

The increase is substantial as the startup seeks to scale rapidly, and the roles become more crucial to the organization's success.

Series C and Beyond

By the time the startup reaches the Series C or beyond, the salaries can be relatively high:

CEO: 80-1.5 crores per annum (approximately $112,000 - $210,000) CTO: 60-1 crore per annum (approximately $84,000 - $140,000) COO: 60-1 crore per annum (approximately $84,000 - $140,000)

The salaries in this stage are commensurate with the startup's advanced growth and the high demand for leadership roles within a mature, successful organization.

Additional Notes

Equity Compensation: In early-stage startups, equity is often a significant component of the total remuneration package for key executives, sometimes making up a considerable portion of their overall compensation. Location and Success: Salaries can vary based on the startup’s success, the founders’ backgrounds, and the demand for talent in specific sectors. Tech hubs like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Gurgaon may command higher salaries than other cities in India. Founder Compensation: Founders typically take a reduced salary and instead focus on contributing more to the equity, as the value of their equity shares may return more on their investment.

These figures are indicative and can fluctuate based on the current economic climate and investor sentiment. The remuneration of key roles in a startup is established by the Board of Directors, and the exact figures may vary based on the specific circumstances of each company.

Understanding the typical salary patterns can help entrepreneurs and hiring managers make informed decisions about compensation packages in the tech startup landscape in India.