Negotiating Your First Leadership Role
By Priya Desai
Securing a leadership offer is a milestone; negotiating it well ensures the role accelerates your development instead of causing burnout.
Map the Full Compensation Picture
Ask for clarity on base pay, variable incentives, equity, and benefits. Document what is discretionary so you can prioritize requests.
Benchmark offers using multiple sources to confidently justify counter-proposals that align with market value.
Define Success with Your Sponsor
Understand the expectations for the first 90 and 180 days. Request resources—budget, headcount, or tooling—that make those goals achievable.
Push for access to mentors or executive sponsors who will champion your initiatives internally.
Protect Time for Strategic Work
Leadership roles can quickly become meeting marathons. Discuss how decisions get made and where you can delegate early.
Negotiate for uninterrupted focus blocks or operational support that help you stay focused on high-leverage contributions.
Key takeaway
Negotiation is about co-creating a setup where you can win. Bring data, stay curious, and align the offer with the impact you plan to deliver.