Work myself up with 7yrs experience. Earning 200ksgd pa in chem industry in 2011.
Started from 2.5k as mgmt trainee and have been doubling my base pay almost every year through promotions.

Worked very hard but luck counts super a lot. Got a chance 6years ago to join GS as equity analyst but rejected that as I do not think I can survive in the political banking world then. Don't think I will make that cut now as well but really envy their pay.... To be able to retire at the age of 40yrs with a comfortable life thereafter....

Good luck guys. For those who is stuck, hopping after every 2-5yrs will probably help jump your pay more. Smart HR usually benchmark your last drawn pay.... So getting that first highly paid job is even more important...