Charles Allen said ITV's first year was "outstanding"

Mr Allen was awarded a 4% pay rise after delivering better than expected profits following the merger.

In addition to his annual �1m salary, Mr Allen took home a bonus of �845,000 and received more than 226,000 shares, worth �286,000 at current value.

ITV plc was formed early last year with the merger of Granada and Carlton.

City forecast

The structure of Mr Allen's pay package was approved by shareholders at the annual meeting of ITV in April last year.

Earlier this month, ITV said the company had benefited from rising turnover and lower costs, resulting in a 57% rise in profits.

Advertising revenues were up, and gains were made in all key sectors including retail, food, entertainment and finance.