Indian-origin business leader Shankh Mitra has been ranked as the world’s second highest-paid chief executive officer (CEO) in 2025, placing him just behind Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who continues to lead global executive compensation charts.
According to the latest global CEO pay rankings, Musk remains at the top due to his performance-linked compensation structure tied to Tesla’s long-term valuation and stock performance. Mitra, meanwhile, has secured the second position, reflecting strong financial results and shareholder returns delivered under his leadership.
Mitra serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Welltower Inc., a major healthcare real estate investment trust. His total compensation package includes salary, bonuses, stock awards and long-term incentive payouts, which together form one of the highest executive earnings globally.
The rankings highlight how CEO compensation is increasingly driven by performance metrics such as revenue growth, profitability and market capitalisation. In Mitra’s case, Welltower’s strong performance in healthcare infrastructure and senior housing investments has significantly contributed to his high pay package.
Industry analysts note that while Tesla CEO Elon Musk continues to dominate global compensation lists, most of his earnings are linked to long-term stock-based incentive plans rather than fixed salary. His position reflects both company performance and market valuation milestones achieved over time.
Mitra’s inclusion in the top ranks has drawn attention in India and among the global business community, as it adds to the growing list of Indian-origin leaders holding influential positions in multinational corporations. Over the years, executives of Indian origin have increasingly risen to senior roles across sectors such as technology, finance, healthcare and manufacturing.
Corporate governance experts say such large compensation packages are typically structured to align executive interests with shareholders, rewarding sustained growth and long-term value creation rather than short-term performance.
Welltower has benefited from rising global demand for healthcare infrastructure, particularly driven by ageing populations and increasing investment in senior care facilities. This growth has played a key role in boosting investor confidence and executive rewards.
With Elon Musk at the top and Shankh Mitra in second place, the latest rankings underscore the widening gap in global executive pay while also highlighting the rising influence of Indian-origin leadership in major international corporations.
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