Shell CEO pay jumps even as 2025 profit weakens
📌 Shell said CEO Wael Sawan received £13.8 million for 2025, up 60% from 2024. The move marks the first full year under the new pay framework since he became CEO in early 2023.
💡 Earlier, on February 5, 2026, Shell reported 2025 adjusted earnings of $18.5 billion, down from 2024 as weaker oil prices and softer trading and chemicals results weighed on performance. Even so, the group maintained share buybacks and dividends, showing that shareholder returns remain a priority.
🔎 The annual report released on March 12, 2026 showed the pay increase was mainly driven by Shell’s stronger total shareholder return relative to peers. Still, the company’s safety record was a drag, with four fatal accidents in 2025 lowering the overall score.
⚠️ Shell is now proposing a higher ceiling for long-term share awards in the next cycle, highlighting competition for top executives across the global energy sector. Shareholders are set to vote on the proposal at the AGM on May 19, 2026.