Microsoft's new $79.1-million pay package represents an increase of 63% despite a year full of layoffs, cybersecurity failures and a soaring stock price.

If you have had a good year at your current job, you can expect to receive a pay increase to reflect your hard work. If things haven't been going as well as you would like, then you can expect to be paid the exact same amount or even have your job re-evaluated.

Satya Nadella, the head honcho of Microsoft, has seen his pay package increase by 63% compared to last year, despite a year full of layoffs, and high-profile security incidents.

According to the latest regulatory filings of the company (via Bloomberg), around 90% of the package was in Microsoft shares for the year that ended in June. This totals $79.1million, but it would have been higher by $5 million if the pay cut requested by the CEO had not been made.

The US government's Cyber Safety Review Board concluded in March this year that Microsoft's cloud security practices were "lacking", compared to other cloud providers. The report criticized Microsoft's handling a security breach that involved a Chinese hacking team and led to the accessing of 25 organisations, including several government agencies.

Microsoft's Brad Smith admitted the cybersecurity failures before the US Congress. He said at the time, "we acknowledge that there is more we can do and must do, and we express our deepest apologies and regrets to all those who have been affected."

Microsoft also acknowledged that it was hacked in November 2023 by a "Russian State-sponsored Actor" known as Midnight Blizzard, resulting in 'a very low percentage of Microsoft Corporate Email Accounts' being compromised.

These breaches have prompted the company to pledge a revamp of its cybersecurity procedures. This includes the creation of six "security pillars", which are prioritised, to guide the firm in improving its security practices.

In January, the company laid off 1,900 employees at Activision Blizzard, and 650 more last month. Microsoft purchased Activision Blizzard for $69 billion back in October 2023. Since then, the company has laid off over 2,500 employees. Microsoft closed four studios -- Arkane, Tango Gameworks Alpha Dog Games, Roundhouse Games, and Roundhouse Games in May this year.

It's been a turbulent year for Microsoft employees, but Satya Nadella still makes a lot of money. It's not quite as big as the $84 million pay package he received in 2014, but I suppose it's all relative when you reach these kinds of figures.

Nadella's not the only Microsoft executive to have received an increase in money (or shares that are equivalent to money) this year. Amy Hood, the Chief Financial Officer, received a 30% increase in her package, which equates to $25.8 millions. Brad Smith, the President, received a 29% rise, which equates to $23.4million.

All this talk about money has made me hungry. It's time to eat. Beans on toast, again? That'll do for now, I suppose.