The chief executive of contract caterers Compass earned more than £2 million last year, it was revealed in the publication of annual reports.
Mike Bailey saw his pay reach £2.62m in the 12 months to September 30, making him one of the UK's best paid company bosses, behind only the likes of Sir Terry Leahy whose last disclosed pay packet was £2.83m.
Bailey's salary was further boosted by a £1.6m bonus payment. He was awarded the cash in recognition of the company's six per cent rise in turnover, a 10 per cent increase in operating profit and a 0.4 per cent growth return in capital. The company also generated free cash flow of £405m.