Earlier didn’t one post reply u that not all DD minimally get 10k and above? There may also be pay difference between DD who work their way up from TO (so their salary as AD2 may already be close to or overlap with base of DD1, not to mention they may be deemed to already have the relevant skill sets) versus new hire from outside.

I don’t think HR can suka suka lowball u. I believe they usually make salary offer after pegging to others in the organisation with similar skills or experience, then seek approval from group head of where the new hire will be placed. Above input is what I think and tiagong only.