Executive compensation is a critical component of corporate governance, designed to balance the needs of executives, organizations, and stakeholders. This course provides a foundational overview of the governance structures and decision-making processes that shape executive compensation plans in publicly traded, U.S.-based Fortune 500 companies. You will explore the core elements of executive pay packages, including base salary, performance incentives, benefits, perquisites, and contingent payments, while examining how these components align with organizational goals and stakeholder expectations.

Through this course, you will evaluate the context in which executive compensation plans are developed and implemented, assess the priorities and influence of key stakeholders, and analyze the tools and strategies used to structure executive pay. By focusing on the governance frameworks and dynamics shaping pay practices, you'll gain the skills to critically evaluate executive compensation programs and understand their implications for organizational performance and accountability.