CONSULTING AGREEMENT
Exhibit
10.1
This
Consulting Agreement ("Agreement") is entered into on this 1st day of August,
2004, by and between Xxx
Xxxxxx acting under the name of Bankmark & Financial Marketing
Services
("Bankmark"), with offices at 00000
Xxxxx Xxxxxx Xxxxxxx, Xxxxx 000, Xxxxxx, XX 00000
and
Birmingham
Bloomfield Bancorp
("Bank"), with organizational offices at 0000 X. Xxxxx Xx., Xxxxxxxxxx Xxxxx,
XX. Other references made to the term "Bank" represent the de novo bank and
its
Organizers.
The
parties hereby agree as follows:
1. SCOPE
OF THE ENGAGEMENT
Bankmark's
primary responsibility within the scope and term of the engagement is to provide
project management, resource identification, and resource management in
conjunction with the client and facilitate the capital acquisition phase of
the
project. Bankmark's role during the organizational phase usually is or can
be:
•
|
Presentation
with core group members of the opportunity to new perspective
organizers/directors. It's Bankmark's success rate, performance,
and clear
understanding of the process that is articulated during these meeting.
This establishes the credibility that most investors are seeking
before
they put any funds at risk. Bankmark provides a new group the ability
to
say. "We have with us as partners a firm that has been there and
done
that...and recently".
|
•
|
A
diverse group of industry experts in all areas required to open bank:
corresponding bank relationships, project financing, equipment,
technology, legal, accounting, operations, facilities that are capable
of
providing a turn key bank with custom features or select needs based
on
specific client request. It is important to real e that opening a
bank is
fur more complex a process and requires a different skill set than
managing a bank on a day-to-day basis that is already in operation.
|
•
|
Over
the years and especially more recently, organizers, directors, and
management continuously infer we "help them see around the corner".
Meaning that at any point during the process, we are able to advise
our
clients as to what's ahead and the impact of options being considered
or
plans in the queue. The process allows clients to more thoroughly
evaluate
an element under consideration that may not produce the result desired
by
the bank's organizing group. If necessary, the group is encouraged
to
visit banks which have recently opened to better understand the impact
and
ramifications of their own decisions.
|
1
•
|
Bankmark
provides project management and tools, which allow the group to interact
with their area of expertise or assignment in the project management
process. Our client bank Project Management program use, as baseline
data,
our most recently completed projects' timeline information. This
process
assures all elements to opening in a timely manner and within budget.
|
•
|
The
keystone to the Bankmark process is the capital acquisition programs
built, supported, and implemented at each bank location by trained
Bankmark staff.
|
•
|
Determination
of charter and review of new filing procedures by the OCC & FDIC
in conjunction with the organizing group.
|
•
|
Discussion
of facilities/locations.
|
•
|
Legal
representation review and discussion which firms processed the last
several applications.
|
•
|
Pre-opening
budget discussion and review.
|
Identification
and Recruitment of qualified Management Team for review with personnel
committee and Board of Directors.
|
•
|
Preparing &
building the management team for presentation to the regulatory agencies
and submission of the application
process.
|
ü
What
role now during the organization phase
ü
What
role when the bank opens
ü
When
does the management team start... ideally
(This
space intentionally left blank)
2
2. CONSULTING
FEES
Bankmark
will design a marketing campaign to strategically support a public offering
of
$12-15 million to be made by the prospectus/offering and qualified with the
State Department of Financial Institutions and/or the Office of the Comptroller
of the Currency. Bankmark's professional fee for services is as follows:
•
|
The
fee for facilitating a marketing capitalization campaign to support
the
public offering is $435,000. This is the total fee and there are
no
contingencies regarding its payment. All fees are due and payable
in
advance of the month the work is to be performed. All invoices for
such
fees and expenses are due no later than the third business day from
receipt of invoice.
|
•
|
The
fees shall be paid in the following incremental
amounts:
|
Payment
# 1
|
|
$
|
9,000
|
|
Month
1
|
Payment
# 2
|
|
$
|
9,000
|
|
Month
2
|
Payment
# 3
|
|
$
|
9,000
|
|
Month
3
|
Payment
# 4
|
|
$
|
12,000
|
|
Month
4
|
Payment
# 5
|
|
$
|
12,000
|
|
Month
5
|
Payment
# 6
|
|
$
|
18,000
|
|
Month
6
|
Payment
# 7
|
|
$
|
36,000
|
|
Month
7
|
Payment
# 8
|
|
$
|
60,000
|
|
Month
8
|
Payment
# 9
|
|
$
|
60,000
|
|
Month
9l
|
Payment
# 10
|
|
$
|
60,000
|
|
Month
10
|
Payment
# 11
|
|
$
|
60,000
|
|
Month
11
|
Payment
# 12
|
|
$
|
60,000
|
|
Month
12
|
Payment
# 13
|
|
$
|
30,000
|
|
1
see
note page 6
|
Professional
Fee Total
|
|
$
|
435,000
|
|
|
Bankmark
may from time to time, based on project financing, defer a portion of a specific
payment. At Bankmark's discretion the bank will be notified as to when the
deferred amount is due.
3. EXPENSES
TO BE PAID BY THE BANK
These
expenses
only represent an estimate.
As each
required service is negotiated with the selected firm or individual, an
agreement or purchase order will be submitted to and approved by the Bank's
Management in advance of any payment or commitment to pay. These agreements
will
be itemized and totaled in a report to management on a monthly basis to account
for monies committed or owed against the estimated budget. In each and every
case where a budget may
be
exceeded
due to necessary changes
in the regulatory process, additional events, or any other requirements required
to support the Capital Acquisition Campaign, Management will pr-approve the
new
budget before it is incurred.
3
Projected
Costs:
Bankmark's
fees are disbursed monthly over the life of the project. Other costs are paid
by
the Bank but managed by Bankmark. As the Project Supervisor (PS) and/or Project
Manager (PM) prepare to implement the various stages and expense items of this
agreement, they will present to the Client a more detailed anticipated monthly
expense of the various budget category line items of the Stocksale Expenses.
These monthly presentations of anticipated expense will, in turn, be reviewed
with Senior Management or the Project's designated representative every thirty
(30) days. Items or services to be purchased on behalf of the Bank will
be
outlined in a contract or estimate form provided by the specific supplier and
approved by Bank personnel prior to purchase of the item or service. Based
on
the assumption that the Bank will have to host approximately 65 investment
meetings with an average attendance of 25 attendees to meet 1,625 (minimum)
qualified investors, the following costs are projected:
Graphics
Program Development
Logo,
Letterhead, Business Cards, Envelopes, prospectus, promotional materials,
organization website (design to production), no printing. At time of execution
a
supplemental contract will be presented to the Bank with a more detailed
description of items and payment schedule.
$27,000
Part
Time Support Staff
Month
4
|
|
$
|
3,000
|
|
Month
5
|
|
$
|
3,000
|
|
Month
6
|
|
$
|
3,000
|
|
Month
7
|
|
$
|
4,000
|
|
Month
8
|
|
$
|
5,500
|
|
Month
9
|
|
$
|
5,500
|
|
Month
10
|
|
$
|
12,000
|
|
Month
11
|
|
$
|
12,000
|
|
Month
12
|
|
$
|
12,000
|
|
Month
13
|
|
$
|
12,000
|
|
|
TOTAL
|
|
$
|
72,000*
|
The
staffing budget only represents a monthly estimate. As we begin the hiring
process closer to the stock sale campaign, we will present a more specific
(weekly) cost per person spreadsheet for approval.
* This
represents a current market estimate. An updated estimate will be prepared
at
beginning of hiring process. Payroll expense due net 15 days from date
of
invoice received.
4
Month
8
|
|
$
|
5,000
|
|
Month
9
|
|
$
|
9,000
|
|
Month
10
|
|
$
|
9,000
|
|
Month
11
|
|
$
|
9,000
|
|
Month
12
|
|
$
|
7,500
|
|
Month
13
|
|
$
|
7,500
|
|
|
TOTAL
|
|
$
|
47,000
|
These
amounts only represent estimates. As each month is planned in advance, the
estimates will be recalculated on a per event cost. The event cost are also
tracked weekly as each event occurs, cost are posted so at all times the PM
and
the client know exactly where the project stands in relationship to the budget.
This is a cost category tracked jointly by the client and Bankmark.
External
Printing
• Invitations
• Offering
circular & all the packaging
• Presentation
boards for investment meetings
• Letterhead,
Business Cards. Envelopes
The
quantities, paper specification, etc. will be bid out/estimated upon completion
of the design phase. If possible Bankmark will secure a local printer provided
the quality standards can be met in relationship to the budget. All print
estimates and purchase orders will be signed and approved by the
client.
$30,000
Internal
Printing**
Internal
Printing is a service provided by Bankmark whereby full digital color printing
is needed only during the stock sale process. Some examples are Sponsor
development handouts, Chairman Circle Advisory/Founders' Group Handout. Because
Bankmark prints these files digitally in-house, the client is afforded a cost
per piece savings in comparison to using a "Kinko's" of at least 50%. This
in-house process allows Bankmark the ability to manage on behalf of the client
ordering only what is needed on a weekly basis. Therefore, our quantity counts
are low.
$7,500
Marketing
Promotions**
• The
chairman's' circle /Founders coffee promotion
• Logo
golf
style shirts
• Other
time recognition items
5
The
specifics (i.e. count. item, color specifications, set-up fees) will be outlined
in a separate agreement for approval by bank/project management prior to
beginning the events process. This will include all design, dye-cast, set-up,
production and shipping requirements.
Speaker
Honorariums**
Speaker
Honorariums are paid to any qualified industry expert identified by Bankmark.
These individuals most likely have previous experience with the Bankmark
program, content and format especially as it relates to regulatory dos and
don'ts. They could be Xxxxxx Xxxxxxx, Xxxxxx Xxxxxxxxx, Xxxxx Lakes, or any
other speaker Bankmark deems acceptable. Each event fee is $450 per event (65
events approx). At the end of each 15-day period during the events phase of
the
project, Bankmark and the Bank will review and reconcile the speaker honorariums
to be paid for that period.
$29,250
Public
and Promotional Events
Public
and Promotional Events are events "outside of the box" or a standard event
whereby the event has a theme that is usually time sensitive, that a special
guest speaker has been scheduled, the event requires a broader scope and scale
or marketing to draw a larger qualified audience. Any event in this category
budget is planned and approved by the bank organizers.
$8,000
These
projected costs are based on the following assumption:
The
most
important factor in holding the events cost to a minimum is to maintain a high
average attendance: 1) get them to an event and 2) follow up to gauge their
interest within 24-48 hours. If our goal is a minimum of 1,625 qualified
attendees and we maintain an average attendance of 25 per event, the Bank can
reach its capitalization goal upon completion of the 65th
event.
The caveat is the follow-up by Directors and the Bank is imperative to the
success of the Capital Acquisition Program based on these assumptions.
1
The
final payment of $30,000 is due at the release of funds from the impound
account, or 150 days from the effective date of the prospectus/offering,
whichever first. It should be understood that receipt of the final payment
of
$30,000 is not contingent upon any conditions or performance. The final payment
shall be considered a post-opening expense for accounting purposes and, although
it appears in, is not included in the calculated total of the estimated
pre-opening expense budget previously presented to the Bank.
**Fees
paid directly to Bankmark.
An
invoice along with any necessary supporting documentation will be presented
to
the Bank as each expense is incurred. These invoices are due net ten (10) days
upon presentation.
6
4. TERM
The
contract shall expire 150 calendar days from the effective date as published
on
the offering circular at 5:00 p.m. unless otherwise extended by
mutual
agreement, in writing. Any budgetary requirements associated with the
continuation of said agreement will be outlined by Bankmark and pre-approved
by
the Bank or the Bank's representative before any work is continued. All
extensions are in 30-day increments approved by both parties. Each 30-day
extension is for the fee of $35,000. All fees for extensions are due at the
beginning of the 30-day extension.
5. STAFFING
REQUIREMENTS BY FMS/BANKMARK
Overall
project responsibility on behalf of Bankmark will be carried out by Xxx Xxxxxx
("DH"), Xxxx Xxxx Xxxxxxxx (BA), Project Supervisor ("PS"), and Project
Manager(s) ("PM"). During the period of time prior to beginning the investment
meetings, a senior associate for Bankmark (PM, PS, DH) will meet with the
Organizers or Management Personnel a minimum of once every two weeks for a
project briefing and update session. A client conference report will be provided
to outline the project timeline, responsibilities and resource requirements
for
the upcoming two weeks and anticipated monthly scheduling or participation
required of Bank personnel or the organizing group. It is estimated that a
senior associate (DH, RS or PM) will be on location a minimum of 3 days
per
week prior to the investment
meetings beginning. The composition of Bankmark's management team will be
further defined upon project commencement.
6. OTHER
STAFFING REQUIREMENTS
All
project employees will be made available by the Bank and will report directly
to
Bankmark's PM. The employer of this staff will be a 3rd
party
national employment agency firm, which will be approved of by the Bank and
provide the Bank with a price break for budgetary purposes. It will also ensure
that all local and state employment laws and requirements will be met. Their
work scheduling, daily job responsibilities, and if necessary dismissal from
the
project are the responsibility of Bankmark's PM. Prior to any dismissal of
a
project employee, Bankmark will review the circumstances and conditions with
the
Bank Management concerning the employee and their recommendations, if any,
for
dismissal. In turn, Bankmark also recognizes the importance of congeniality
between project staff and the Bank Management. Therefore, should
conflict/tension between a specific project individual and the Bank Management
arise, Bankmark encourages the Bank Management to immediately bring the
situation to the attention of the PS or PM so that any necessary adjustments,
employee-transfers, or even dismissal/termination be dealt with so that the
flow/momentum of the project not be hindered. The determination of an hourly
wage will be gauged and set by the PM based on the experience and skill
necessary to perform their job responsibilities pursuant to the requirements
of
this Agreement. For example, regardless of policies established within the
institution, Bankmark or organization/group will not employ $8 per hour fast
food entry level personnel for positions which require data entry and sorting
skills and/or meeting the public, i.e. a skill level of $12-$14 an hour (or
prevailing wage). However, all expenditures of this nature will be within the
budget described above unless otherwise agreed to in writing by each party.
7
Bankmark
understands that Part-time/Temporary staff positions with no immediate offered
benefits do not always attract "top" people as prospective project employees.
Therefore, Bankmark will always attempt to first "pull-in" qualified personnel
from other projects (whether in progress or recently completed) to staff a
newly
beginning project so that the level of experience and training is exemplary
and
consistent. A combination of experienced Bankmark personnel and new hires from
the project's immediate area equate to a well-balanced on-site team essential
to
the success of the project.
It
is
important to note that typical "Bank" employees that may work for the
institution post-charter normally do not have the skills set necessary for
the
types of employees Bankmark must solicit and engage to successful perform the
duties as specified within the boundaries of this contract. From time to time,
Bankmark may hire college or high school students, which could potentially
be
siblings of directors or others close to the project, but typically they are
hired to perform what are considered "after-hours" or "summer-time" duties
(See
"Part-Time RSVP Callers" below). Because of the skill set necessary for the
success of this project Bankmark and Client agree hat the policy not to hire
directors' relatives, friends, etc. is appropriate. Hiring should be based
on
the skill set necessary to complete the job.
The
staff
payroll will be managed by the PM a Bankmark person familiar with the firm
that
pays the employees. Invoices are processed through Bankmark's Payroll Manager,
approved by the PM and presented to the client. The client must pay for these
outside services net 15 days of presentation.
Other
part time staff or FTE's (Full Time Equivalent) time has been allocated pursuant
to the project budget. Some staff members do not work on site at the
organizational office but at Bankmark's office in San Luis Obispo, CA. This
provides consistency from project to project, access through universities for
data entry personnel or other essential personnel that Bankmark does not have
to
hire, train, and release as a project ends. Instead it provides Bankmark's
clients by spreading out the part time hours needed to support all of Bankmark's
projects.
For
many
banking professionals not being able to "see" an individual causes concern
when,
in fact, it is the work to be produced in total and in relationship to the
specific juncture. Example: Some days the data entry personnel are completely
inundated with roster entry and proofing 3-4 staff members. The next day the
entire off site office group is consumed with one project. Over all what this
systems provides
(and within a more managed budgetary process) is the human resource component
consistently but on call without the project staff on site being
inflated.
Part-time
RSVP Callers: Telephone
calls to invite critical leads, close friends and personal business relations
are best made by the Organizer. However, based on the fact that there are other
time commitments by the Organizers, it may be necessary from time to time to
employ RSVP callers. These are hourly employees used only during the events
phase and not continuously. If it is necessary to employ these individuals,
a
budget will have to be established. This should only be a hack-up contingency.
8
7. FACILITY
REQUIREMENTS
The
Bank
must provide a working location to support a full time staff of 4-6: 1 senior
associate, 1 PM and part time people. It should comfortably sustain four desks
and the necessary number of working tables and chairs for processing the events
material. (900-1,500 square fee exclusive). The facility shall be secured,
well
lighted for access 24/7. Unless otherwise noted by memo or addendum, the
computer equipment that is supplied is the property of Bankmark. Bankmark and
its personnel will not be restricted in any manner from access to its equipment
or otherwise.
8. MISCELLANEOUS
EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES
The
PM
and support staff must have access to a minimum or 6 phone lines which are
not
too heavily used by other Bank operational needs, plus one dedicated high speed
data line (DSL/Cable modem) and one dedicated fax line. The staff must also
be
provided with a designated fax machine and copier, which are needed for reports
required to keep Organizers and Bank Management updated with current potential
shareholder names and event schedules. There is also a significant amount of
copying required in the database management and the reporting function. The
project also requires a varying amount of office supplies; pens, pads of paper,
computer paper, etc., which will be ordered by the PM through the Bank's
supplier. There are monthly phone charges for sending data via modem between
Bankmark's data center and the Bank's onsite computer systems. These line
charges will be billed monthly with copies of the charges from the phone xxxx.
There will be monthly charges for Fed Ex/UPS regarding overnight shipping of
data entry work, lists or supplies.
8.1
The
procurement of supplies to maintain the project's readiness will be maintained
by the PM. The Bank will establish a business account will Office Depot, Office
Max, Staples or an equivalent. When supplies are needed the PM will put together
a supply request form to be approved by Senior Management. Upon approval by
the
Bank, the PM will procure the materials and maintain an inventory for the
project.
9. CONFIDENTIALITY
OF INFORMATION
Without
the prior consent of the Bank, Bankmark shall keep confidential shall not
disclose to any third party any of the database or project files or any
financial or other information relating to the Bank, which is not already within
the public domain. From time to time during the "events" phase of the project,
Financial Marketing/Bankmark may invite guests to observe an event. These guests
may he other consultants or bank directors and officers from another bank.
The
Bank will not unreasonably restrict Bankmark in allowing its guests to attend
and observe the process.. If the prospective guest(s) are from the Northeastern
area of the United States, Bankmark will inform the client. The client and
Bankmark will then select a meeting in which these local guests may
attend.
9
To
assure
fulfillment of the requirements within this Agreement, the Bank and/or
Organizers of the Bank will designate one individual to work directly with
Bankmark in the management and implementation of this Agreement. The contact
person is Xxxxxx Xxxx.
11.
|
ACCESS
TO MATERIALS NECESSARY TO FILL THE TERMS OF AGREEMENT
|
The
Bank
will supply Bankmark with necessary copies of documents to develop the "sales
story" for the investment meeting presentation and development of the director
training materials, i.e., the FDIC application, the state application, business
plans, strategic plans, etc.
OTHER
COVENANTS PROVIDED BY CLIENT 12-22
Bankmark
hereby warrants and represents that Bankmark shall:
12.
On
a best
efforts basis with client adherence to the terms and recommendations, work
diligently to implement all items discussed herein.
12.1
Not
assume or create any obligation for, or on behalf of, or in the name of, or
in
any way bind, the Bank except as expressly provided by this Agreement.
12.2
Engage
in
no conduct in the performance of this Agreement that reflects unfavorably on
the
Bank.
12.3
Agree
to
defend, indemnify and hold harmless Bank and each of its Organizers, and their
successors and assigns, from and against any and all liability, damages, fees,
including reasonable attorneys' fees, and expenses whatsoever, resulting,
directly or indirectly, from any claim or demand of any kind or nature,
resulting from the wrongful actions, negligence, errors, omissions or
misstatements of Bankmark, its officers, directors, employees, agents or
contractors in connection with Bankmark's performance of its obligations under
this Agreement; provided, however, that Bookmark shall not be liable under
this
section for the wrongful actions, negligence, errors, omissions or misstatements
of Bank, its Organizers, employees, agents or contractors. This indemnification
shall survive the expiration err earlier termination of this
Agreement.
10
12.4
Defend,
indemnify, and hold harmless the Bank and each of its organizers from any and
all liability, claims, demands, suits, costs, charges. and expenses, including,
without limitation, attorney's fees incident to any claim, loss, damage, or
injury to the person or property of Bankmark and Bankmark's agents, employees
and/or contractors, or to the person or property of anyone injured through
the
acts or omissions of Bankmark or of agents employees, or other persons acting
on
Bankmark's behalf; except for other firms or employees contracted directly
with
the Bank or Organizers.
12.5
Bankmark
warrants and represents that it has the necessary personnel, experience,
expertise and ability to successfully organize, implement and promote the Bank
in accordance with the budget.
13. OWNERSHIP
OF MATERIALS
Rights
of
ownership and reproduction of materials supplied by Bankmark remain solely
with
Bankmark. This includes proprietary methods, training materials, handouts and
evaluation tools used during the implementation
of this Agreement. Any materials developed specifically for the Bank, i.e.
logos, corporate identity package, signage, etc. belong to the Bank when all
monies owed as a result of this work have been paid by the Bank as prescribed
within this Agreement. Any other work, which may be developed for the Bank
such
as promotional materials, etc. ownership licensing rights or rights of
reproduction will be outlined and agreed to by each party before said work
begins or is produced. Any creative materials which are developed by Bankmark
or
any subsidiary group (Financial Marketing Services, xxxxxxxxxxxxxx.xxx, etc.)
or
any of the firms' affiliate websites may depict any and all of these materials
produced and a narrative of the project's objectives and accomplishments as
part
of a "print" or "on-line digital" portfolio and may include (but are not limited
to) marketing materials, graphics, and websites.
13.1 BANKMARK
COPYRIGHTS & PATENTS
During
the course of the consulting engagement, Bankmark will as part of its
responsibility make available or provide materials to the organizers, directors
and management team. These materials are only for the specific purpose of
managing, tracking, education and training. They are not to be copied or
distributed outside the immediate group of organizers, directors, management
and
staff. These materials are for internal use only. Should they be mistakenly
used
during the capital acquisition phase of the engagement, the project members
of
the group could be put at risk. These educational materials are for the sole
purpose of training and may not be used for sales or solicitation of prospective
shareholders. These materials and the process they represent are proprietary
to
Bankmark and are protected by copyrights.
11
The
database application program is owned by Bankmark. In the case of a de novo
Bank
whose current staff possesses the skills and talents to copy, modify, change
or
duplicate the application program, the Bank directors and management must assure
Bankmark that no efforts by said staff will occur.
At
no
time while Bankmark is actively engaged in the project or upon its completion
will the software application program be modified, duplicated, copied or changed
without our prior written approval.
The
lists, rosters, critical leads, or any materials supplied to Bankmark for the
development of the database is the property of the group and or individual
who
provided the materials. Upon completion by the staff of use of this material
it
will be returned to the individual whom it belongs. The completed database
will
become the property of the bank upon completion of the project and fulfillment
of the terms specified in this agreement.
14. NON
COMPETE
Bankmark
is currently working and meeting with other organizing groups in other areas
of
the United States and it is not our practice to provide non compete covenants
during organization, as groups can end their organizing efforts at anytime
by
electing not to finish the project. Bankmark does allow that we will not seek
out new bank business in the primary market area as to be defined by the charter
bank application, which may include the following areas: Southeastern Michigan
for the duration of this de novo bank project. Upon completion of the bank
project, for the period of one (1) year Bankmark maintains that they will not
enter the Bank's market area for like work regarding organizing, chartering,
and
facilitating a de novo bank coming to market. Should the Bank upon opening
use
Bankmark to provide marketing programs and services, a limited noncompete
agreement can be developed pertaining to the Bank's immediate marketing
area.
15. ASSIGNMENT
Except
as
provided herein, this Agreement or any rights or obligations hereunder may
not
be assigned by either party without the prior written consent of the other
party.
Paragraphs
9, 12, 13 and 14 shall survive the expiration or termination of this Agreement.
12
17. AMENDMENTS
This
Agreement may be modified in writing only, and cannot be changed orally.
18. COMPLETE
AGREEMENT
This
contract is the entire and only agreement between the parties. The contract
replaces and amends any previous agreements between the parties. This contract
can only be changed by agreement in writing signed by both parties.
19. PARTIES
LIABLE
This
contract is binding upon all parties who sign it and all who succeed to their
rights and responsibilities.
20. NOTICES
All
notices under this contract must be in writing. The notices must he delivered
personally or mailed by certified mail, return receipt requested or Fed-Ex/UPS
Next day to the other party at the address written in this contract, or to
that
party's attorney.
21. CHOICE
OF LAW
The
terms
of this contract shall be interpreted under the laws of the state in which
the
Application is filed.
22. SEVERABILITY
If
one or
more of the provisions of this contract are deemed invalid or illegal the
remainder of the contract shall survive.
•
|
Bankmark
shall be available to meet with any regulatory agencies or the Bank's
attorney as needed to effectively implement the requirements of this
Agreement.
|
•
|
Upon
completion of the public offering, Bankmark will provide a written
action
report on issues concerning the de novo bank in the areas of product
development, delivery systems, and topical marketing needs based
on
current trends experienced during the campaign. This written report
will
be followed by an oral presentation by Xxxxxx & Xxxxxxx to the
Board of Directors. This is not to be confused with a marketing plan
but
rather it report on issues and
recommendations.
|
•
|
The
parties agree that the Bank or Bankmark may require that any controversy
or claim arising out of or relating to this Agreement, or the breach
thereof, will be settled by arbitration in accordance with the Rules
of
the American Arbitration Association in effect at the time that the
controversy or claim arises, and judgment upon the award rendered
by the
arbitrator may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof.
The
forum for any such arbitration proceeding shall be at the local office
of
the Judicial Arbitration Mediation Service nearest to the headquarters
of
the -Bank.
|
13
•
|
Should
any legal action or arbitration proceeding be brought in connection
with
any provisions of this Agreement, or to collect damages for either
the
breach of any term of this Agreement or false representation or warranty
given in connection with this Agreement, the prevailing party shall
be
entitled to recover all reasonable attorney fees, and costs and expenses
actually incurred in such action or proceeding.
|
•
|
Significant
suppliers of' goods or services shall be approved jointly by Bankmark
and
the Bank-
to
assure the greatest possible success. If the Bank requires the specific
use of a supplier, the Bank will assume all responsibilities for
delivery
of those specific goods and services, and any delays or problems
caused by
use of said supplier. Bankmark's purchasing strengths due to its
long term
relationship with many suppliers provides clients with the advantage
of
special pricing, i.e. reduced fees, or better terms, i.e., delayed
partial
payment until release of Funds from the impound account. While all
contracts negotiated with any provider of goods or services and approved
by the client, any firms or individuals that are providers of these
services on an ongoing basis for Bankmark are managed by Bankmark
with
oversight by the organizers during the term of the engagement. It's
this
leverage and tie to responsibility that allows Bankmark to procure
and
expedite service to its clients. Bank-xxxx shall not accept any gratuity,
rebate, fee, non-cash trade, commission or any-
other direct or indirect accommodation as it pertains to providers
of
goods or services used to implement the work as prescribed herein.
Bankmark maintains an ongoing marketing relationship which may include
fee
for referrals, shared marketing and promotional costs for workshops
and
seminars with, but not limited to, the following firms: 1) Xxxxxx,
Pepper & Shefelman PLLC, 2) East Point Technologies,
3) Midwest Bankers, Jenkens & Xxxxxxxxx, 4) Brooks,
Pierce, McLender, Xxxxxxxx & Xxxxxxx LLP, 5) Information
Management Technologies, 6) TIB, 7) Xxxxxxx & Bonnefin.
8) Xxxxxxx & Associates, 9) UH2 Consulting Company,
10) Bankers' Compliance Group, 11) WIB,
12) Xxxxxxx & Xxx, 13) Xxxxxxx & Procter,
14) Powell, Goldstein, Xxxxxx & Xxxxxx. Should the bank
elect to engage the services of any of these professional organizations,
it is the responsibility of the bank to conduct their own thorough
evaluation of the services to be provided.
|
•
|
Speaker
honorariums and travel expenses can become very costly. It is Bankmark's
intent to provide the best resource to accomplish this task. To have
a
celebrity speaker for each function of the estimated 80+ functions
would
be cost prohibitive. When applicable, Bankmark will use bank directors
from other institutions, industry observers, and in many cases, Xxxxxx
Xxxxxxx. Xx. Xxxxxxx'x relationship as a speaker is separate
from
that of services provided directly by Bankmark. As a speaker,
Xx. Xxxxxxx is paid by the Bank from the estimated budget
for speaker
honorariums or any other individual designated by Bankmark as appropriate.
Because speakers must set aside the time to meet the requirements
of the
scheduled meetings, if for any reason the meetings are canceled,
they
are
paid accordingly. If canceled within 48 hours notice, 50%
of the
speaker honorarium is due. If canceled 24 hours prior to the
meeting,
the entire fee is due.
|
14
•
|
Let
it be understood that Bankmark does not participate directly or indirectly
in any sales transaction between the Bank and prospective shareholders,
nor will it solicit subscription agreements or collect monies for
prospective shareholders in connection with such activity. Because
Bankmark is not an agent for the Bank or the de novo bank, or making
representations as an agent, the Bank agrees to indemnify and hold
harmless Bankmark from and against any and all damages, loss, cost
expense, obligation, claim or liability, including but not limited
to
attorney fees and expenses, arising as a result of the Bank making
said
offering.
|
•
|
The
scope, nature and details of the consulting services provided by
Bankmark,
as well as the identity and background of the parties Bankmark introduces
to the Bank, will not be divulged to anyone other than those directly
representing the parties to the transaction and unless otherwise
required
by applicable law.
|
•
|
During
the term of this Agreement should Xxx Xxxxxx/Bankmark become incapacitated
and unable to direct this project in any manner, Xxxxxx Xxxxxxx will
complete the project as prescribed herein and the Bank will pay to
Xx. Xxxxxxx any forthcoming payments. Notification to enact
this
specific condition of the Agreement will be in writing by Xx. Xxxxxx
or his estate representative for Bankmark. If the Bank does not elect
to
have Xx. Xxxxxxx complete the project, all monies owed Bankmark,
are
still due and payable as prescribed herein.
|
•
|
Bankmark
works for and at the sole discretion of the Board of Directors. If,
at any
time, Bankmark believes the group needs to receive information or
be
informed of any detail affecting the project, Bankmark will not be
denied
access to the group in any manner.
|
The
parties have executed this Agreement to be effective as of 8/1/04 (the "Start
Date").
Financial
Marketing Services Bankmark
|
|
de
novo Bank
|
/s/
XXX XXXXXX
|
|
/s/
XXXXXX X. XXXX
|
Xxx
Xxxxxx, Owner
|
|
Bank
Representative
|
(This
space intentionally left blank)
15
This
Addendum is attached and made part of that certain Consulting Agreement by
and
between Xxx
Xxxxxx acting under the name of Bankmark
("Bankmark") and Birmingham
Bloomfield Bancorp ("Bank")
dated August 1, 1004.
A. |
Strategic
Capitalization Plan,
|
B. |
Public
Relations,
|
C. |
Events
Management and Speaker Coordination,
|
D. |
Director/Senior
Management Training on How to Present the Independent Bank as
an
Investment Opportunity,
|
E. |
Shareholder
Database Management and Computer Equipment,
|
F. |
Consultation
regarding the development of marketing communication materials,
|
G. |
Writtenopinions,
observations, and oral presentations on strategic issues
concerning the
Bank will presented during the engagement period. A marketing
opinion
paper will be presented to Directors and Senior Management
at the
conclusion of the campaign.
|
A. STRATEGIC
CAPITALIZATION PLAN
The
success of any capitalization effort is the strategic plan which, when
developed, is built on the realistic abilities of each Director's strengths,
weaknesses, opportunities and threats. This plan is developed only after a
series of personal interviews with each Director.
The
elements of each Director interview is quantified, weighted and formulated
in a
matrix format. This allows Bankmark to develop a capitalization plan based
upon
the expected, collective contributions of the Director Group and Senior Bank
Management. It allows for the optimization of each individual's effectiveness
based on their available time, sphere of influence, sales abilities and other
critical factors.
The
capitalization plan is designed to meet the Bank's required capital needs in
increments, based on how focused Management and the Director Group is and how
quickly they wish to proceed. The group will have an opportunity to contribute
its input before the plan is finalized. During the development of the
capitalization plan, Bankmark will meet with the de novo bank's representative
every thirty days (or as needed) to review Bankmark's progress, share any
concerns, or discuss possible requests for assistance the Bank and Organizers
of
the de novo bank may have. Within a reasonable time from the start date of
the
Consulting Agreement, Bankmark will submit to the Organizers a written report
of
its assessment of the organizing group and where it sees the de novo bank within
its marketplace, but before the capital acquisition program. This report will
also include a detailed strategic capitalization plant with a proposed events
calendar. It should be noted that change might occur in the plan based on input
from Bank Management, the approval of the offering and its anticipated effective
date. Upon the final review by Bank Management and the incorporation of any
changes, Bankmark will present the capitalization plan during the Director
and
Senior Management Training Session.
16
Monthly
project review and assessment by Bankmark and a representative of the Board
of
Directors is important to assure the ongoing success of the capitalization
program. This forum will allow Bankmark to review with the Banks
representative's issues or concerns regarding the performance of key individuals
and the program's effectiveness and efficiency according to the project
timeline. This review process is most critical during the events phase of the
program. This forum allows the Organizers the opportunity to critique Bankmark's
performance and make recommendations for change or request additional
assistance. During this review session, the Directors and Bankmark can openly
review in confidence the efficiency reports provided by Bankmark (see
Section C, Monitoring
the Events Performance).
This
review process assures the Bank the opportunity for direct input and hands-on
participation in the effective completion of the capitalization program.
Conversely, Bankmark can, at these meetings, also present requests for any
additional resource allocation the project may require.
B. AVAILABLE
PUBLIC RELATIONS OPPORTUNITIES
• Newspapers,
• Local
Financial TV news,
• Professional
and public service organizations to which Directors belong,
• Scheduled
events,
• Materials
published by the Bank,
•
Any
other
communications vehicle, which is in regulatory compliance during the
capitalization phase.
Public
relations are critical to the success of any capital acquisition campaign.
Using
the local media to increase public awareness of the Bank's future plans, its
Management, the business and economic outlook, and other information will
position the Bank and entrance its community image. Bankmark's public relations
activities will not unreasonably be restricted by Bank Management or the Board
of Directors in any manner.
No
single
media vehicle is completely effective in telling the Bank's story. An integrated
and balanced approach must be used. A considerable increase in the level of
public awareness needs to occur within both the public and professional spheres
of influence of the Bank. This must all be in place before the events process
begins.
17
Bankmark
designs, manages, and facilitates this integration process subject to the
approval of the Bank (the direct costs of any artwork or printing are separate
items). A review of the public relations materials enclosed in Bankmark's
initial capabilities presentation will illustrate to Management how scheduled
events, coupled with the public relations function, enhance the public's
awareness of the investment opportunity. Any public relations material developed
by Bankmark on behalf of` the Bank is not released until Bank Management has
reviewed and approved it. A member of Senior Management is present at all
meetings, which Bankmark may schedule between the Bank and area newspapers,
publications and other media. The Bank and Bankmark agree to work jointly on
all
public relations efforts.
C-1. EVENTS
MANAGEMENT AND SPEAKER COORDINATION
Bankmark's
proven formula for success enables the Director Group to present the investment
opportunity to qualified individuals through a series of hosted events. Each
event features a financial expert who addresses the investment opportunity
in
several ways. In the case of the Bank, there must be a concerted effort to
reach
the required capital level in the shortest period of time possible. Bankmark
is
responsible for scheduling and managing the financial industry experts and
providing the PM.
Events
Process Management. Bankmark's
proven strategy for capital acquisition includes the manner by
which
each
prospective investor is invited to, and processed during, the events phase
of
the campaign. Invitation processing, facilities management, greeting guests,
presenting the investment opportunity, and coordination of guest speakers are
managed solely by Bankmark. This process is explained thoroughly during the
Director and staff training modules. All local customs and/or community
traditions are respected and incorporated into the process. However, Bankmark
upon concurrence of the Bank, determines the final components and sequence
of
events during the stock sale campaign. This includes the use of outside industry
observers/speakers. This component of the Bankmark process cannot be changed
without full agreement, in writing, by Bankmark (The organizers and directors
are restricted as to what they can and cannot say during the offering period).
To
provide assurance that the project proceeds in a timely manner and the client
has a record of important elements affecting the project, a weekly status report
log is
maintained by Bankmark. Copies of the log are presented weekly by the PM to
the
Bank's designated Client Resource Manager. This report gives a detailed
breakdown of all part-time employees, their hours and costs, any increases
or
changes made in the database and personnel scheduling during the events phase.
This enables the Client Resource Manager to approve the previous week's staff
allocations, schedule their personnel for the corning week and make any
necessary adjustments.
Monitoring
the Events Performance. Upon
completion of each weeks events, a thank-you letter is sent to each attendee.
Accompanying the letter is an attendee- questionnaire. This allows Bankmark
to
measure all aspects of the events process, especially the follow-up phone calls.
Each week during the events process, Bankmark provides Management with an
event-by-event synopsis table. This table tracks elements such as the ratios
of
RSVP's to Shows and Mailed to Shows, etc. These timely monitoring tools keep
Management and Bankmark apprised of all aspects of the events process.
18
C-2. PUBLIC
AND PROMOTIONAL EVENTS
In
addition to the standard investment opportunity meetings, breakfast, lunch
and
evening refreshments, and hors d'oeuvres, the project may require the
development of public and promotional events. These public and promotional
events are usually hosted by the Bank to attract specific target market
segments, for example:
A.
Physicians—flow
to make money in a managed care environment
B.
Small
Business Professionals—Getting your Banker to say "Yes"
C.
Or
events
targeted to women, minorities, special interest groups, or any market segment
necessary to attract investors
D.
Wealth
Building and/or Financial Planning
E. The
State
of the Economy and Your Business
It
is not
possible to determine now at the inception of this working Agreement what type
of public and promotional event(s) may be necessary or how many
public
and promotional events will be needed. If these types of events are determined
to be necessary during the development of the Capital Acquisition Program
strategy or later, during its implementation, Bankmark will meet with Bank
Management to discuss the recommendations and develop a budget accordingly.
The
public and promotional events have been essential during Bankmark's last four
projects to raise significant awareness regarding the:
a) offering
circular
b)
help
close the offering circular by creating a sense of urgency
c) creating
greater visibility with businesses and professionals
C-3. GUEST
SPEAKER/INDUSTRY EXPERT
This
working Agreement provides for the requirement of industry experts to be present
during the Bank's hosted or sponsored investment opportunity meetings. In
planning for the estimated 105 meetings, Bankmark (Steiner, Ceklovsky, or any
other speaker approved by Bankmark) may function as the industry experts. The
speaker honorarium fee is $450 per investment meeting with a minimum of two
meetings on a scheduled event day. To provide the Bank with the best possible
coverage for presentation, Bankmark will, in addition to the scheduled
investment opportunity meetings, allow the Bank to schedule and facilitate
Speaker Days.
Within the two event-minimum day, the Bank may also schedule a round
table
discussion with six to nine guests or one-on-one meetings with Founders or
significant investors. Within a Speaker Day, a schedule could be two standard
investment meetings, lunch-evening, to include a breakfast round table with
two
one-on-one meetings, or a total of five (5) meetings during the day.
19
D. DIRECTOR,
MANAGEMENT AND STAFF TRAINING
Bankmark
conducts a series of Director interactive workshops for Organizers and Senior
Management, and two Management Workshops (see Exhibit). The objective of this
workshop is to assure that each participant involved in the Capital Acquisition
Campaign has current information on the industry in general and the performance
of independent banks in particular. This data is consistent with the information
presented at the investment meetings. Workshops are conducted at a mutually
acceptable time prior to the offering effective date. These workshops take
place
during work hours, evenings and at least one weekend. It is imperative that
those involved in the selling process be required
to
attend all training and sales meetings. If, after the completion of these
workshops, one or two individuals require additional training, Bankmark provides
for that. Notice for the workshop series is given three weeks in advance of
the
date scheduled. Any make-up session is conducted by Xxx Xxxxxxx for a fee of
$2000 and paid at the release of funds from the impound account.
Sales
meetings arc very important in order to evaluate each team member's progress,
to
discuss common issues or concerns and to allow Bankmark to monitor the group's
weekly follow-up. These meetings are mandatory and the Bank supports this
schedule and allows sales team members to attend (see attached). Exhibit #1.
E. DATABASE
MANAGEMENT AND COMPUTER EQUIPMENT
Each
Director provides the names of key contacts for potential shareholders, A rule
of thumb is that for every million dollars of capital needed, the Bank needs
1500 qualified names, which later become the Banks base for business development
activity. Bankmark works with each Organizer and member of-Bank
Management to develop a database sufficient to meet the capital requirements.
The Bank must provide sufficient physical space to accommodate the tactical
support staff,: computers and phones as well as necessary parking in a safe
area
for all staff.
Database
Ownership: Bankmark
develops and manages the database with text files in Microsoft Access 2000.
Upon
completion of the capitalization project, the Bank-
may
purchase MS Access (from any supplier) and Bankmark will transfer the data
files
to the Bank's computer upon final receipt
of all
monies owed on the contract; addendum, or extensions. If Bankmark changes the
database applications software during the capital campaign, the Bank may be
required to buy, from a computer supplier of their choice, a single-user version
of the new software. Upon receipt of final payment for the contract, Bankmark
will install its customized applications on the Bank's system only in the event
that the Bank has provided the required
software to complete the
conversion. During the duration of the project, Bankmark will instruct one
individual from the Bank; on how to access and retrieve data from the Bank's
files. This individual will be provided the security access code for the Bank's
files. No other Bank individual will have direct access to tits: files during
the stock sale campaign. This will insure that there will be little chance
of
contaminating or dancing the files. The Bank will be provided a "How-To Guide"
in the capabilities of their new database at the end of the project.
20
The
parties have executed this Addendum to be effective as of August 1,
2004
(the "Start Date").
Financial
Marketing Services Bankmark
|
|
de
novo
|
/s/
XXX XXXXXX
|
|
/s/
XXXXXX XXXX
|
Xxx
Xxxxxx, Owner
|
|
Bank
Representative
|
21
The
Director's Pack
A
Series of interactive workshops
Facilitated
by Bankmark
Bankmark
is committed to preparing its clients to best formulate and implement the
strategies and actions which will ensure that the resources of the organizers
of
de novo banks are expended in the most efficient and cost effective fashion.
To
that end, as part of Bankmark's Capital Acquisition Program, we have developed
a
series of workshops which prepares the proposed Organizer/Director/Management
to
deal effectively with not only the placement of stock but the critical issues
and skills required to carry out their duties and responsibilities are
representatives of their shareholders and depositiors.
The
series is designed to, raise the participant's awareness and guide, educate
and
expose them to the critical skills and competencies necessary to not only
successfully place the stock but to make sound decisions and lead the bank
to
profitability after it opens. Below is a brief description of each workshop.
wDirector
Orientation: (Workshop
#267-DO)
this
series of five workshops are designed to prepare the Organizers and officers
on
how to most effectively participate in the Capital Acquisition campaign. During
these sessions, we set the tone of the campaign and define the stock placement
methodology. The program is designed to enable the participant to become
comfortable with the tools available to them and to anticipate the prospective
shareholders questions and move comfortably to close the sale. The content
is
designed so that the "non-salesperson" will quickly reach a level of comfort
when discussing the bank's investment opportunity. The length of each session
is
approximately 4-6 hours and scheduled at the convenience of the client.
Session
#1—The Basics
• Sponsors,
criteria, profile and locations for an investment meeting
• The
anatomy of a typical investment meeting
• An
overview of the banking industry in the State
• Current
trends in community banking
• Selected
operating data of solid performing community banks
Session
#2—The Nitty-Gritty
• Developing
a common language
• Reaching
consensus on the approach to industry and local issues
• Commonly
asked questions (and the effective responses)
• Overcoming
objections to the sale
22
Session
#3—Closing Techniques (2-3
weeks into the campaign)
•
|
Progress
review and table exercises designed to share experiences and help
each
organizer to better present and interact with prospective shareholders
and
close the sale
|
Session
#4—Make up Session
•
|
For
those who may have missed a previous workshop or for those who what
a
"refresher".
|
•
|
A
special session for the organizer's "partner", (husband, wife, or
significant other). The organizer's "partner" may well be involved
in
hosting an investment meeting, developing lists of potential attendees,
etc. For those who may not be directly involved, at the very least
they
will be effected somewhat by the Organizer's time commitment during
the
stock sale. Therefore, it helps them to have some understanding of
the
commitment, process and implications pf the capital campaign (attendance
is optional and usually centered around a lunch). It is approximately
2 hours in length.
|
wDirector
101: (Workshop
#303)
designed
for the proposed director who has not previously been involved in guiding the
destiny of a financial institution. This is an overview utilizing workbooks,
supporting documents and regulatory guidelines, which enables the director
to
prepare for the duties and responsibilities they have accepted. The length
of
the session is approximately 4-6 hours.
The
critical issues covered:
•
|
Understanding
the operating environment
|
•
|
Working
with the regulators
|
•
|
Working
with and retaining quality management
|
•
|
Monitoring
operations
|
•
|
Operational
"Red Flags"
|
•
|
Committee
assignments
|
•
|
Understanding
the regulatory "Alphabet"
|
•
|
Serving
the community needs (CRA)
|
•
|
Continuing
director education
|
wCare
and Feeding of Your Directors: (Workshop
#313)
designed
for the officers and senior staff to help them deal effectively with the
organizing group both during the organizational phase as well as after the
bank
opens. For those who have been previously involved with a community bank board,
this serves as a review. For those who have not, it is basic training for better
understanding the motivations and mind-set of the type of individuals who are
typically the driving force behind a new bank. This is an exercise in developing
the most effective way to deal with your directors on a day to day basis. Length
of this session is approximately 3-4 hours.
23
The
core
topics:
•
|
Whose
bank is this anyway?
|
•
|
Two
different worlds
|
•
|
Is
there really a common vision?
|
•
|
What
do they bring to the table?
|
•
|
What
do I bring to the table?
|
•
|
Is
director education good or evil?
|
•
|
The
whole should be greater than the sum of the parts
|
wThe
Service Imperative: (Workshop
#156-SI[?])
designed
to focus the group's attention on the specific reality of delivering quality
service. So much is said about the promise of quality service, yet service
does
not develop in a vacuum. Through a series of group exercises, the organizers
and
officers look beyond
mere words and labels to reach consensus regarding the specific
standards and guidelines necessary to actually deliver
on the
service promise. The length of this session is approximately 5-6 hours.
Major
topics:
•
|
What
does the customer what?
|
•
|
What
does the customer need?
|
•
|
What
are the barriers that must be overcome?
|
•
|
What
are the solutions that must be implemented?
|
•
|
Reaching
consensus
|
•
|
Gathering
and applying demographic and psychographic data
|
•
|
Developing
the marching orders
|
wStrategic
Focus: (Workshop
#145-SF) [Optional]
designed
as the precursor to the development of a comprehensive strategic operating
plan.
This workshop takes the group through an overview of the critical components
of
a strategic plan. The group's regulatory application is used as a basis for
formulating the level of strategic thinking necessary to move the organization
from the speculative/formative stage to the implementation/realization stage.
This is a focus on the "how", rather than the "what" of an effective set of
marching orders. In addition, through a series of table exercises and group
discussions, the group reaches consensus on the importance of the critical
issues that will successfully drive the bank. The length of this session is
approximately 6 hours.
24
Central
Issues:
•
|
The
group's core values
|
•
|
The
group's vision
|
•
|
The
Mission statement
|
•
|
How
to define goals and objectives
|
•
|
The
Board's expectations
|
•
|
Management's
expectations
|
-End-
25