Mercer's analysis of boardroom pay in the biggest 350 US companies, based on data published in their proxy statements (equivalent to the annual reports of UK companies) for 2007, records strong growth in total remuneration.

In 2007, total direct compensation (which comprises pay for board and committee service, as well as equity grants) for senior executives in Mercer's Top 50 companies (with $40 billion or more annual revenue) rose by 4.2%. But this was only half the rate recorded for board members in the next group, Mercer's Large 150 companies (with revenues between $7.4 billion and $40 billion), which came in at 8.2%. And the rate of growth for those running Mercer's Mid 150 companies (boasting revenues between $1.2 billion and $7.4 billion) was higher still, at 11.4%.

It remains to be seen whether such "grass is greener" findings prompt a renewal of the concerns about a potential corporate exodus from the UK expressed earlier this year.

• If you are actively involved in your organisation's pay-setting process, we would like to invite you to take part in the 20th annual IRS Pay and Benefits Bulletin Pay Prospects survey of UK private sector reward practices. Each year, this major study looks in detail at how private sector employers set their annual pay review and reward priorities for the coming year. Taking part in our research allows you to compare your expected pay award and reward practices with those of other organisations. The closing date is Thursday 18 September 2008.