What salary should someone with over 40 years experience and an
associate degree ask for when told by a prospective employer that he
can name his own?  It is the meat industry and a sales position.  The
person taking the job is closing his own company and selling his
product line and customer base to another.  He will receive $.05/pound
for all products sold in addition to this salary.  thank you

When there is an open court for something like this (a salary), it's a
good idea to throw the ball back to the employer. If I were in this
position, I would say something similar to "Well, I am looking for a
figure (salary) that will take into account my experience,
responsibilities, and the services I can offer to your company. I'd be
willing to CONSIDER your strongest offer."

(note: you will consider their offer, but NOT necessarily accept it)

By saying this, the employer must weigh the factors and decide how
important you are to them. If they perceive you as a high asset to
their company, they will offer you a reasonable figure. The good thing
about this is they MIGHT offer something higher than what you would
have asked for. In they don't, you can just say, "Considering the
things I can do for your company, I was looking more in the range of
(insert salary here)."

Just my opinion.