Big Pay Raises Ahead: Report Predicts Upto 40% Salary Hike For Key Roles In 2025

According to a recent report by Michael Page 2025 Salary Guide, corporate professionals working in emerging skills and key leadership roles could see a hike of up to 40 per cent in India. Meanwhile, other corporate employees are expected to receive salary increases of 6 to 15 per cent, depending on the type of industry, job criticality, and specialized skill sets.

The global recruitment consultancy highlighted that this salary growth is driven by expanding opportunities across various sectors, including private equity, sovereign wealth, venture capital, real estate, and infrastructure compared to early 2024.

Key High-Growth Roles in 2025

"Some of the exciting roles on salary growth perspective are AI, ML, cyber security, data privacy, then head of manufacturing, chief operating officers, then our senior roles within GCC, which could be the Head of shared services or functional heads in GCC, or it could be roles across financial services, in banking, fintechs and BMCs and private equity venture caps," noted Ankit Agarwala, Managing Director PageGroup.

Additionally, leadership roles in banking, fintech, private equity, and venture capital are expected to see strong salary growth.

Agarwala further predicted that salary increments in 2025 would range from 6 per cent to 15 per cent, with an average increase of around 9 per cent-similar to last year's trends. However, he emphasized that salary disparities would vary based on industry and skillset.

Agarwala advised that "... if you want a good salary hike and good progression in your salary, you need to be a specialist with the niche skill. That is what the market is asking for. Market is not looking for generalists who know a little bit of everything. So the salaries are stronger and better if you have a niche skill which is in demand in the market."

Industries and Skills in High Demand

The Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI) sector continues to demand for professionals in risk management, finance, compliance, and technology.

In the tech sector, cloud computing, full-stack development, and cybersecurity remain highly sought-after skills, while emerging technologies like IoT, 5G, and quantum computing are creating new career opportunities.

Moreover, companies are focusing on diversity and inclusion, with many aiming for 50 per cent female representation, offering competitive salaries and flexible work policies.

"Organisations that make decisive moves, provide clear career progression and offer competitive compensation will not only attract top talent but also retain it in an increasingly competitive market," said Nilay Khandelwal, Senior Managing Director at Michael Page Singapore and India.

Mercer's Total Remuneration Survey: 2025 Salary Trends

Released earlier this year, Mercer's Total Remuneration Survey projects a 9.4 per cent average salary increase across Indian industries in 2025, driven by the growing demand for skilled professionals.

The survey, which considered insights from over 1,550 companies in India, also revealed that 37 per cent of organizations plan to expand their workforce in 2025, reflecting positive hiring sentiment in the job market.