Form of SEVERANCE COMPENSATION AGREEMENT (As Amended and Restated Effective as of November 6, 2017)
Exhibit 10.14
Form of
(As Amended and Restated Effective as of November 6, 2017)
THE AGREEMENT was made and entered into as of ________________, (the “Effective Date”), by and between Xxxxxx Petroleum Company, a Delaware corporation (together with its subsidiaries, “Xxxxxx”) and ______________ (“Executive”). Xxxxxx and Executive may be referred to individually herein as “Party” and collectively as “Parties”.
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, Xxxxxx recognizes that the current business environment makes it difficult to attract and retain highly qualified executives unless a certain degree of security can be offered to such individuals against organizational and personnel changes which frequently follow a Change of Control (as defined below) of a corporation; and
WHEREAS, even rumors of acquisitions or mergers may cause executives to consider major career changes in an effort to assure financial security for themselves and their families; and
WHEREAS, Xxxxxx desires to assure fair treatment of its key executives in the event of a Change of Control and to allow them to make critical career decisions without undue time pressure and financial uncertainty, thereby increasing their willingness to remain with Xxxxxx notwithstanding the outcome of a possible Change of Control transaction; and
WHEREAS, Xxxxxx recognizes that its key executives will be involved in evaluating or negotiating any offers, proposals, or other transactions which could result in a Change of Control of Xxxxxx and believes that it is in the best interest of Xxxxxx and its stockholders for such key executives to be in a position, free from personal financial and employment considerations, to be able to assess objectively and pursue aggressively the interests of Xxxxxx and its stockholders in making these evaluations and carrying on such negotiations; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of Xxxxxx (the “Board”) believes it is essential to provide the Executive with compensation arrangements upon a Change of Control which provide the Executive with individual financial security and which are competitive with those of other similar corporations, and in order to accomplish these objectives, the Board has caused Xxxxxx to enter into this Agreement; and
WHEREAS, the Agreement was amended on the Amendment Date to provide in Article 5 hereof for a “double trigger”, instead of a “single trigger”, for the accelerated vesting of outstanding stock incentive awards held by Executive at the time of a Change of Control;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual premises and conditions contained herein, the parties hereto agree as follows:
Article 1. | Term |
This Agreement shall terminate, except to the extent that any obligation of Xxxxxx hereunder remains unpaid as of such time, upon the earliest of:
(a) | December 31, 2018; provided, however, that, commencing on December 31, 2018 and on each anniversary date thereafter (each such date, an “Anniversary Date”), the expiration date under this clause (i) shall automatically be extended for one additional year unless, immediately prior to such Anniversary Date, either party shall have given thirty (30) day written notice that it does not wish to extend this Agreement, but in no event shall the expiration date under this clause be earlier than the second anniversary of the effective date of a Change of Control; |
(b) | The termination of the Executive’s employment with Xxxxxx based on death, Disability (as defined in Section 3.1), or Cause (as defined in Section 3.2); and |
(c) | The voluntary resignation of the Executive for any reason other than Good Reason (as defined in Section 3.3). |
Article 2. | Change of Control |
Except as provided herein, no benefits shall be payable hereunder unless there shall have been a Change of Control of Xxxxxx (as defined below), and Executive’s employment by Xxxxxx shall thereafter have been terminated within two (2) years after the date of such Change of Control in accordance with Article 3.
For purposes hereof, a “Change of Control” or “Change of Control of Xxxxxx” shall mean any one of the following: (i) any person or group of persons acting in concert (within the meaning of Section 13(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) shall have become the beneficial owner of more than fifty percent (50%) of the outstanding common stock of Xxxxxx; (ii) the stockholders of Xxxxxx shall cause a change in a majority of the members of the Board within a twelve (12) month period; provided, however, that the election of a newly-elected director shall not be deemed to be a change in the membership of the Board if the nomination for election by Xxxxxx’x stockholders of such new director was approved by the vote of two-thirds (2/3) of the directors then still in office who were directors at the beginning of such twelve (12) month period; or (iii) Xxxxxx or its stockholders shall enter into an agreement to dispose of all or substantially all of the assets or outstanding capital stock of Xxxxxx in any manner (including, but not limited to, by means of sale, merger, reorganization or liquidation). A Change of Control will not result from the issuance of common stock or other securities of Xxxxxx to creditors of Xxxxxx in connection with the restructuring of Xxxxxx’x indebtedness, or from transactions entered into pursuant to or during the pendency of a voluntary or involuntary case or proceeding by or against Xxxxxx under the Federal Bankruptcy Code or any applicable federal or state bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, or other similar law, if such transactions are related to such case or proceeding, or from the appointment at any time of a custodian, receiver, liquidator, assignee, trustee, or sequestrator of Xxxxxx.
If the Executive’s employment with Xxxxxx is terminated in accordance with the provisions of Article 3 within the six (6) month period prior to the date on which a Change of Control is effective, and it is reasonably demonstrated that such termination: (i) was at the request of a third party who has taken steps reasonably calculated to effectuate a Change of Control or (ii) otherwise arose in connection with a Change of Control, then for all purposes hereof, such termination shall be deemed to have occurred following a Change of Control.
Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of Article 2, with respect to any payment hereunder that is (i) subject to Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) and (ii) a Change of Control which would accelerate the timing of such payment, the term “Change of Control” shall mean a change in the ownership or effective control of Xxxxxx, or in the ownership of a substantial portion of the assets of Xxxxxx as defined under Code Section 409A, but only to the extent inconsistent with the above definition and to the minimum extent necessary to comply with Section 409A, as determined by Xxxxxx.
Article 3. | Termination of Employment Following a Change of Control |
If any of the events described in Article 2 constituting a Change of Control of Xxxxxx shall have occurred, Executive shall be entitled to (i) the benefits provided in Article 5, and (ii) upon the subsequent termination of his employment, the benefits provided in Article 4, provided that such termination occurs within two (2) years following a Change of Control of Xxxxxx (provided, however, if such termination is on account of Executive’s death, the termination must occur within six (6) months (and not two years) following a Change of Control of Xxxxxx), unless such termination within such two-year period is: (a) because of his “Disability” (as defined in Section 3.1), (b) by Xxxxxx for “Cause” (as defined in Section 3.2), or (c) by Executive other than for “Good Reason” (as defined in Section 3.3).
3.1 Disability. If, upon the Disability (as defined below) of Executive, and within thirty (30) days after written Notice of Termination (as defined in Section 3.4) is given, Executive has not returned to the full-time performance of his employment duties, Xxxxxx may terminate Executive’s employment for Disability. For purposes of this Agreement, “Disability” is defined as the physical or mental inability of Executive to carry out the normal and usual duties of his employment on a full-time basis for an entire period of six (6) continuous months, together with the reasonable likelihood, as determined by the Board upon the advice of a physician selected or approved by the Board, that Executive will be unable to carry out the normal and usual duties of his employment on a full-time basis for the next following continuous period of six (6) months.
3.2 Cause. For the purposes hereof, Xxxxxx shall have “Cause” to terminate Executive’s employment hereunder upon (i) willful misconduct or intentional and continual neglect of duties which, in the good faith judgment of the Board (excluding Executive), has materially adversely affected the business of Xxxxxx; provided, however, that Executive shall have first received written notice from such Board advising of the act or omission that constitutes the misconduct or neglect of duties, and such misconduct or neglect of duties continues after Executive has had a reasonable opportunity (of not less than 10 business days) to correct or cure the same; or (ii) theft of any property of Xxxxxx or its Affiliate, or the conviction or a plea of nolo contendere by Executive to a felony or any other crime involving dishonesty or moral turpitude.
3.3 Good Reason. Subject to Section 3.4, Executive may terminate his employment for Good Reason. For purposes of this Agreement, “Good Reason” shall mean any of the following:
(a) | Following a Change of Control or at any time during the term of employment, Xxxxxx’x failure to vest Executive with the powers and authority of the ______________________________, except in connection with a termination (1) for Cause pursuant to Section 3.2, or (2) by reason of the Executive’s death or Disability pursuant to Section 3.3(i); |
(b) | Following a Change of Control, a significant change in the scope, nature or status of Executive’s responsibilities; |
(c) | Following a Change of Control, (1) an attempted or actual reduction in Executive’s base salary as in effect on the date of a Change of Control or as the same may be increased from time to time thereafter, or (2) a failure by Xxxxxx to increase Executive’s salary from time to time or to pay Executive a bonus at a level comparable to the level of salary increases or bonuses (based on the average of the three (3) preceding years) paid prior to a Change of Control, as determined by consistent application of the bonus formula utilized to establish bonus payments during the preceding three (3) years; |
(d) | Following a Change of Control, Executive’s relocation by Xxxxxx to any place other than a location within the Houston, Texas area, except for a relocation consented to by Executive, if all reasonable costs of relocation, including moving expenses, costs of selling a principal residence (and, if requested by Executive, the purchase of such principal residence at its then-appraised value as appraised by a qualified and licensed appraiser selected by Executive) are paid or provided for by Xxxxxx; |
(e) | Following a Change of Control, the failure by Xxxxxx to continue in effect any compensation plan in which Executive participates unless an equitable arrangement (embodied in an ongoing substitute or alternative plan) has been made with respect to such plan in connection with a Change of Control, or the failure of Xxxxxx to continue Executive’s participation therein or the taking of any action by Xxxxxx which would materially and adversely affect Executive’s participation in any such plan or reduce Executive’s benefits thereunder; |
(f) | Following a Change of Control, the failure by Xxxxxx to continue to provide Executive with benefits not less, in the aggregate, than those enjoyed under any of Xxxxxx’x pension, life insurance, medical, health, and accident, or disability plans in which Executive was participating at the time of a Change of Control or the taking of any action by Xxxxxx which would directly or indirectly materially reduce any such benefits; |
(g) | The failure of Xxxxxx to obtain a satisfactory agreement from any successor or parent thereof to assume and agree to perform this Agreement pursuant to Article 7; |
(h) | Any purported termination of Executive’s employment with Xxxxxx which is not effected pursuant to a Notice of Termination satisfying the requirements of Section 3.4 (and for purposes of this Agreement, no such purported termination shall be effective); or |
(i) | Termination of employment by reason of the Executive’s death or Disability, at any time during the six (6) month period beginning on the 1st day after the effective date of a Change of Control. |
Notwithstanding the foregoing definition of “Good Reason”, the Executive cannot terminate his employment hereunder for Good Reason unless the Executive (1) first notifies the Board in writing of the event (or events) which the Executive believes constitutes a Good Reason event under clauses (a) through (i) (above) within sixty (60) calendar days from the date of such event, and (2) provides Xxxxxx with at least thirty (30) calendar days to cure, correct or mitigate the Good Reason event so that it either (A) does not constitute a Good Reason event hereunder or (B) the Executive specifically agrees, in writing, that after any such modification or accommodation made by Xxxxxx, such event does not constitute a Good Reason event hereunder.
The Executive’s mental or physical incapacity following the occurrence of any of the circumstances described in clauses (a) through (i) (above) shall not affect the Executive’s ability to terminate employment for Good Reason, and the Executive’s death following delivery of a Notice of Termination for Good Reason shall not affect his designated beneficiary’s entitlement to any benefits provided hereunder upon a termination of employment for Good Reason. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Executive’s resignation under this Agreement, with or without Good Reason, shall not affect the Executive’s ability to terminate employment by reason of the Executive’s retirement or to be eligible to receive benefits under any retirement or pension plan of Xxxxxx or its Affiliates.
3.4 Notice of Termination. Any termination pursuant to the foregoing provisions of this Article 3 (excluding a termination due to Executive’s death) shall be communicated by written Notice of Termination to the other party hereto. For
purposes hereof, a “Notice of Termination” shall mean a notice which shall indicate the specific termination provision herein relied upon and shall set forth in reasonable detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination of Executive’s employment under the provision so indicated. In the event that Executive seeks to terminate his employment with Xxxxxx pursuant to Section 3.3, he must communicate his written Notice of Termination to Xxxxxx within sixty (60) days of being notified of such action or actions by Xxxxxx which constitute Good Reason for termination.
3.5 Date of Termination. The term “Date of Termination” shall mean: (i) if this Agreement is terminated for Disability, thirty (30) days after Notice of Termination is given (provided that Executive has not returned to the performance of his duties on a full-time basis during such thirty (30) day period); or (ii) if Executive’s employment is terminated pursuant to Section 3.3, or if Executive’s employment is terminated for any other reason, the date that Executive incurs a “separation from service” (as such term is defined in final Treasury Regulations issued under Code Section 409A and any other authoritative guidance issued thereunder), as determined by Xxxxxx.
3.6 Reimbursement of Expenses. To the extent this Agreement provides for the reimbursement of expenses which are not specifically excluded from Code Section 409A, (i) such expenses shall be eligible for reimbursement for the lifetime of the Executive, (ii) the amount of expenses eligible for reimbursement during the Executive’s taxable year shall not affect the expenses eligible for reimbursement in any other taxable year, and (iii) the reimbursement shall be made not later than by December 31st of the year following the calendar year in which such expense was incurred by the Executive.
Article 4. | Compensation Upon Termination |
4.1 Termination without Cause or for Good Reason. If Executive’s employment is terminated (including termination due to Executive’s death) other than pursuant to Sections 3.1 or 3.2, or if Executive terminates his employment for Good Reason, then, in either case and subject to Sections 4.1(c) and 4.2, and provided that within thirty (30) days Executive signs a general release agreement in a form provided by Xxxxxx that releases Xxxxxx from any and all claims that the Executive may have, except under this Agreement and as may otherwise be provided in the release agreement, and the Executive affirmatively agrees not to violate the provisions of Article 6, the Executive shall be entitled, if such termination occurred within two (2) years following the effective date of a Change of Control (or in the case of termination due to Executive’s death, if such termination occurred within six (6) months following the effective date of a Change of Control), to receive the following benefits:
(a) | Xxxxxx shall pay to the Executive in a lump sum, in cash, on the date which is six (6) months following his Date of Termination, an amount equal to two (2) times the sum of: (i) the Executive’s annual base salary as in effect immediately prior to the Change of Control or, if higher, in effect immediately prior to the Date of Termination, and (ii) the greater of: (A) the average bonus (under all Xxxxxx bonus plans for which the Executive is eligible) earned with respect to the three (3) most recently completed full fiscal years or (B) the target bonus (under all Xxxxxx bonus plans for which the Executive is eligible) for the fiscal year in which the Change of Control occurs, based on a forecast that has been approved by the Board of the results for the fiscal year in which the Change of Control occurs. |
(b) | Xxxxxx shall, at its expense, maintain in full force and effect for Executive’s continued benefit until twenty-four (24) months after the Date of Termination all life, disability, medical, dental, accident and health insurance coverage to which Executive was entitled immediately prior to the Notice of Termination. In the event that (i) Executive’s participation in any such coverage is barred under the general terms and provisions of the plans and programs under which such coverage is provided, or (ii) any such coverage is discontinued or the benefits thereunder materially reduced, Xxxxxx shall provide or arrange to provide Executive with benefits substantially similar to those which Executive was entitled to receive under such coverage immediately prior to the Notice of Termination. At the end of the period of coverage herein above provided for, Executive shall have the option to have assigned to Executive, at no cost and with no apportionment of prepaid premiums, any assignable insurance owned by Xxxxxx that relates specifically to Executive, and Executive shall be entitled to all health and similar benefits that are or would have been made available to Executive under law. The continued coverage under this Section 4.1(b) shall be provided in a manner that is intended to satisfy an exception to Section 409A of the Code, and therefore not treated as an arrangement providing for nonqualified deferred compensation that is subject to taxation under Code Section 409A, including (i) providing such benefits on a nontaxable basis to Executive, (ii) providing for the reimbursement of medical expenses incurred during the time period during which Executive would be entitled to continuation coverage under a group health plan of Xxxxxx pursuant to Section 4980B of the Code (i.e., COBRA continuation coverage), (iii) providing that such benefits constitute the reimbursement or provision of in-kind benefits payable at a specified time or pursuant to a fixed schedule as permitted under Code Section 409A and the authoritative guidance thereunder, or (4) such other manner as |
determined by Xxxxxx in compliance with an exception from being treated as nonqualified deferred compensation subject to Code Section 409A.
(c) | Xxxxxx’x obligation to pay severance amounts due to the Executive pursuant to this Section 4.1, to the extent not already paid, shall cease immediately and such payments will be forfeited if the Executive violates any of the covenants or conditions described in Sections 6.1, 6.2 or 6.3 after the Date of Termination. To the extent already paid, should the Executive violate any of the covenants or conditions described in Sections 6.1, 6.2 or 6.3 after the Date of Termination, the severance amounts provided hereunder shall be repaid in their entirety by the Executive to Xxxxxx with interest at the “applicable federal rate” (as defined in Section 1274(d) of the Code), and all rights to such payments shall be forfeited. |
4.2 Limitation on Payments.
(a) Definitions. For purposes of this Section 4.2, the following capitalized terms have the meanings ascribed to them, below.
“Affiliate” has the same meaning ascribed to such term in Rule 12b-2 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended from time to time.
“Excise Tax” means the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code with respect to the Total Payments together with any interest or penalties with respect to such excise tax.
“Incentive Award” means a stock option, stock appreciation right, restricted stock award, restricted stock unit award, or other equity-type award under any plan or agreement in which Executive has, or will (by the passage of time only and not based on Executive’s performance) have, an interest in the capital stock of Xxxxxx or an Affiliate, or a right to obtain capital stock or an interest in capital stock of Xxxxxx or an Affiliate.
“Net After-Tax Benefit” means (i) the Total Payments less (ii) the amount of all United States federal, state and local income and employment taxes payable with respect to the Total
Payments (calculated at the maximum applicable marginal income tax rate for Executive under the Code), and less (iii) the amount of the Excise Tax imposed (based upon the rate for such year as set forth in the Code at the time of the first payment of the foregoing).
“Total Payments” means the total payments or other benefits that Executive becomes entitled to receive from Xxxxxx or an Affiliate in connection with a Change of Control that would constitute a “parachute payment” (within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code), whether payable pursuant to the terms of this Agreement or any other plan, arrangement, or agreement with Xxxxxx or an Affiliate.
(b) Maximum Net After-Tax Benefit. The Total Payments shall be reduced to the minimum extent necessary so that no portion of the Total Payments shall be subject to the Excise Tax, but only if, by reason of such reduction, the Net After-Tax Benefit received by Executive as a result of such reduction will exceed the Net After-Tax Benefit that would have been received by Executive if no such reduction was made. It is thus the objective of this Agreement to maximize Executive’s Net After-Tax Benefit if any payments or benefits provided hereunder are subject to the Excise Tax.
In the event it is determined that the Total Payments to or for the benefit of Executive, whether paid or payable or distributed or distributable or otherwise, including, by example and not by way of limitation, acceleration of the date of vesting or payment or rate of payment under any plan, program or arrangement of Xxxxxx, would be subject to the Excise Tax, Xxxxxx shall first make a calculation under which such payments or benefits provided to Executive under this Agreement are reduced, to the minimum extent necessary, so that no portion thereof shall be subject to the Excise Tax (the “Section 4999 Limit”). Xxxxxx shall then compare (i) Executive’s Net After-Tax Benefit assuming application of the Section 4999 Limit with (ii) Executive’s Net After-Tax Benefit without the application of the Section 4999 Limit. In the event (i) is greater than (ii), Executive shall receive Total Payments solely up to the 4999 Limit. In the event (ii) is greater than (i), Executive shall be entitled to receive all such Total Payments, and shall be solely liable for any and all Excise Tax related thereto.
All determinations required to be made under this Section 4.2, including whether an Excise Tax may apply to the Total Payments, will be made by the independent accounting firm which served as Xxxxxx’x auditor immediately prior to the Change of Control (the “Accounting Firm”). All fees and expenses of the Accounting Firm shall be borne solely by Xxxxxx and it shall be Xxxxxx’x obligation to cause the Accounting Firm to take any actions required hereby.
Xxxxxx will direct the Accounting Firm to submit detailed supporting calculations both to Xxxxxx and the Executive within fifteen (15) business days after the Date of Termination, if applicable, or such earlier time as is requested by Xxxxxx. If applicable, Executive and Xxxxxx shall each provide the Accounting Firm with access to, and copies of, any books, records and documents in their respective possessions, as reasonably requested by the Accounting Firm, and otherwise reasonably cooperate with the Accounting Firm in connection with the preparation and issuance of the determinations and calculations contemplated by this Section 4.2.
If the Accounting Firm determines that a reduction in payments is required under this Section 4.2, the Executive may select the order of reduction; provided, however, that none of the selected payments may be “nonqualified deferred compensation” subject to Section 409A of the Code. In the event the Executive fails to select an order in which Total Payments are to be reduced, or does not select such an order without selecting payments that would be “nonqualified deferred compensation” subject to Section 409A of the Code, Xxxxxx shall (to the extent feasible) reduce the Total Payments in the following order: (i) reduction of any cash severance payments otherwise payable to Executive that are exempt from Section 409A of the Code; (ii) reduction of any other cash payments or benefits otherwise payable to Executive that are exempt from Section 409A of the Code, but excluding any payments attributable to any acceleration of vesting or payments with respect to any Incentive Award that are exempt from Section 409A of the Code; (iii) reduction of any other payments or benefits otherwise payable to Executive on a prorata basis or in such other manner that complies with Section 409A of the Code, but excluding any payments attributable to any acceleration of vesting and payments with respect to any Incentive Award that are exempt from Section 409A of the Code; and (iv) reduction of any payments attributable to any acceleration of vesting or payments with respect to any Incentive Award that are exempt from Section 409A of the Code, in each case beginning with payments that would otherwise be made last in time.
If the Accounting Firm determines that no Excise Tax is payable by Executive, it shall furnish Executive with an opinion that he has substantial authority not to report any Excise Tax on his federal income tax return.
4.3 No Mitigation or Set-off of Amounts Payable Hereunder. Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment provided for in this Article 4 by seeking other employment or otherwise, nor shall the amount of any payment provided for in this Article 4 be reduced by any compensation earned by Executive as the result of employment by another employer after the Date of Termination, or otherwise. Xxxxxx’x obligations hereunder also shall not be affected by any set-off, counterclaim, recoupment, defense, or other claim, right or action which Xxxxxx may have against Executive.
Article 5. | Stock Options and Other Plans |
5.1 Acceleration of Benefits. If within the two-year period immediately following the effective date of a Change of Control, Executive’s employment is involuntarily terminated (including termination due to Executive’s death or Disability) other than for Cause, or if Executive terminates his employment for Good Reason, then, in either case, the following shall automatically occur effective as of the termination of employment date:
(a) | Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in any stock incentive plan, stock option agreement, restricted stock agreement, or other applicable plan or agreement between Executive and Xxxxxx, all outstanding units, stock options, incentive stock options, performance shares, performance awards, stock appreciation rights, career shares, bridge shares, and shares of restricted stock (the “Stock Rights”) then held by Executive shall immediately become exercisable and Executive shall become one hundred percent (100%) vested in such Stock Rights held by or for the benefit of Executive; provided, however, that such Stock Rights shall not be accelerated if it would be an impermissible acceleration under Section 409A of the Code. In the event that, and to the extent that, Xxxxxx is unable to provide for acceleration of vesting in accordance with this paragraph as a result of a provision in existence prior to the Change of Control under any plan or agreement, Xxxxxx shall provide in lieu thereof a lump sum cash payment equal to the difference between the total value of such outstanding Stock Rights as of the Executive’s Date of Termination and the total value of the Stock Rights in which the Executive is vested as of the Executive’s Date of Termination, payable within the time period specified in Section 4.1(a). The value of such accelerated vesting in the Executive’s Stock Rights shall be determined by the Board in good faith based on a valuation performed by an independent consultant appointed by the Board. |
Notwithstanding the above provisions of this Section 5.1(a), no accelerated vesting or cash out shall apply to any agreement to the extent such acceleration or cash out would cause the compensation payable thereunder to fail to qualify as “performance-based compensation” under Code Section 162(m)(4)(C) if Executive is a “covered employee” subject to Code Section 162(m).
(b) | Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in any stock option agreement between Executive and Xxxxxx, Executive’s right to exercise any previously unexercised and outstanding option under any stock option |
agreement shall not terminate until the latest date on which such option would expire under the terms of such agreement but for Executive’s termination of employment. In the event that, and to the extent that, Xxxxxx is unable to provide for the extension of the expiration date of any option in accordance with this paragraph as a result of a provision in existence prior to the Change of Control under any plan or agreement, Xxxxxx shall provide in lieu thereof a lump sum cash payment equal to the value of such extension Xxxxxx is unable to provide which is payable within the time period specified in Section 4.1(a). The values of such accelerated vesting and exercisability shall be determined by the Board, in good faith, based on a valuation performed by an independent consultant appointed by the Board.
Article 6. | Noncompetition, Nonsolicitation, Nondisclosure of Trade Secrets, Nonpublic Information, and Ownership |
6.1 Noncompetition. The Executive agrees that during the term of the Executive’s employment with Xxxxxx and for a period of one year after the Date of Termination or cessation of the Executive’s employment with Xxxxxx for any reason whatsoever, he will not, directly or indirectly, compete with Callon by providing services to any other person, partnership, association, corporation, or other entity that is an “Oil and Gas Business” in any geographic location where Callon currently operates. As used herein, an “Oil and Gas Business” means owning, managing, acquiring, attempting to acquire, soliciting the acquisition of, operating, controlling, or developing Oil and Gas interests, or engaging in or being connected with, as a principal, owner, officer, director, employee, shareholder, promoter, consultant, contractor, partner, member, joint venture, agent, equity owner or in any other capacity whatsoever, any of the foregoing activities of the oil and gas exploration and production business. The parties agree that the above restrictions on competition are completely severable and independent agreements supported by good and valuable consideration and, as such, shall survive the termination of this Agreement for whatever reason. The parties further agree that any invalidity or unenforceability of any one or more of such restrictions on competition shall not render invalid or unenforceable any remaining restrictions on competition. Additionally, should a court of competent jurisdiction determine that the scope of any provision of this Section 6.1 is too broad to be enforced as written, the parties intend that the court reform the provision to such narrower scope as it determines to be reasonable and enforceable.
6.2. Nonsolicitation. During the term of the Executive’s employment with Callon and for a period of three (3) years after the Date of Termination with Callon for any reason whatsoever, the Executive shall not, on his own behalf or on behalf of any other person, partnership, association, corporation, or other entity: (a) directly, indirectly, or through a third party hire or cause to be hired; (b) directly, indirectly, or through a third party solicit; or (c) in any manner attempt to influence or induce any employee of Callon or its subsidiaries or affiliates to leave the employment of Callon or its subsidiaries or affiliates, nor shall he use or disclose to any person, partnership, association, corporation, or other entity any information obtained concerning the names and addresses Xxxxxx’x employees. The parties agree that the above restrictions on hiring and solicitation are completely severable and independent agreements supported by good and valuable consideration and, as such, shall survive the termination of this Agreement for whatever reason. The parties further agree that any invalidity or unenforceability of any one or more such restrictions on hiring and solicitation shall not render invalid or unenforceable any remaining restrictions on hiring and solicitation. Additionally, should a court of competent jurisdiction determine that the scope of any provision of this Section 6.2 is too broad to be enforced as written, the parties intend that the court reform the provision to such narrower scope as it determines to be reasonable and enforceable.
6.3. Nondisclosure of Trade Secrets. Callon promises to disclose to the Executive and the Executive acknowledges that in, and as a result of, his employment by Callon, he will receive, make use of, acquire, have access to and/or become familiar with, various trade secrets and proprietary and confidential information of Callon, its subsidiaries, and affiliates, including, but not limited to, processes, computer programs, compilations of information, records, financial information, sales reports, sales procedures, customer requirements, pricing techniques, customer lists, method of doing business, identities, locations, performance and compensation levels of employees, and other confidential information (individually and collectively, “Trade Secrets”) which are owned by Callon, its subsidiaries, and/or affiliates and used in the operation of its business, and as to which Callon, its subsidiaries, and/or affiliates take precautions to prevent dissemination to persons other than certain directors, officers, and employees. The Executive acknowledges and agrees that the Trade Secrets:
(a) | Are secret and not known in the industry; |
(b) | Give Callon or its subsidiaries or affiliates an advantage over competitors who do not know or use the Trade Secrets; |
(c) | Are of such value and nature as to make it reasonable and necessary to protect and preserve the confidentiality and secrecy of the Trade Secrets; and |
(d) | Are valuable, special, and unique assets of Callon or its subsidiaries or affiliates, the disclosure of which could cause substantial injury and loss of profits and goodwill to Callon or its subsidiaries or affiliates. |
The Executive promises not to use in any way or disclose any of the Trade Secrets and confidential and proprietary information, directly or indirectly, either during or after the term of his employment, except as required in the course of his employment with Callon, if required in connection with a judicial or administrative proceeding, or if the information becomes public knowledge other than as a result of an unauthorized disclosure by the Executive. All files, records, documents, information, data, and similar items relating to the business of Callon, whether prepared by the Executive or otherwise coming into his possession, will remain the exclusive property of Callon and may not be removed from the premises of Callon under any circumstances without the prior written consent of Callon (except in the ordinary course of business during the Executive’s period of active employment under this Agreement), and in any event must be promptly delivered to Callon upon termination of the Executive’s employment with Callon. The Executive agrees that upon his receipt of any subpoena, process, or other requests to produce or divulge, directly or indirectly, any Trade Secrets to any entity, agency, tribunal, or person, whether received during or after the term of the Executive’s employment with Callon, the Executive shall timely notify and promptly deliver a copy of the subpoena, process, or other request to Callon. For this purpose, the Executive irrevocably nominates and appoints Callon (including any attorney retained by Callon), as his true and lawful attorney-in-fact, to act in the Executive’s name, place, and stead to perform any act that the Executive might perform to defend and protect against any disclosure of any Trade Secrets.
The parties agree that the above restrictions on confidentiality and disclosure are completely severable and independent agreements supported by good and valuable consideration and, as such, shall survive the termination of this Agreement for whatever reason. The parties further agree that any invalidity or unenforceability of any one or more of such restrictions on confidentiality and disclosure shall not render invalid or unenforceable any remaining restrictions on confidentiality and disclosure. Additionally, should a court of competent jurisdiction determine that the scope of any provision of this Section 6.3 is too broad to be enforced as written, the parties intend that the court reform the provision to such narrower scope as it determines to be reasonable and enforceable.
6.4 Ownership. The Executive agrees that all inventions, copyrightable material, business and/or technical information, marketing plans, customer lists, and trade secrets which arise out of the performance of this Agreement are the property of Callon.
6.5 No Disparaging Comments. Executive and Callon shall refrain from any criticisms or disparaging comments about each other or in any way relating to Executive's employment or separation from employment with Callon; provided, however, that nothing in this Agreement shall apply to or restrict in any way the communication of information to any governmental law enforcement agency by either party that is required by compulsion of law. A violation or threatened violation of this prohibition may be enjoined by a court of competent jurisdiction. The rights under this provision are in addition to any and all rights and remedies otherwise afforded by law to the parties.
Executive acknowledges that in executing this Agreement, he has knowingly, voluntarily, and intelligently waived any free speech, free association, free press or First Amendment to the United States Constitution (including, without limitation, any counterpart or similar provision or right under any other state constitution which may be deemed to apply) and rights to disclose, communicate, or publish disparaging information or comments concerning or related to Callon; provided, however, nothing in this Agreement shall be deemed to prevent Executive from testifying fully and truthfully in response to a subpoena from any court or from responding to an investigative inquiry from any governmental agency.
For all purposes of the obligations of Executive under this Section 6.5, the term “Callon” refers to the Xxxxxx Petroleum Company and its subsidiaries, and its and their directors, officers, employees, shareholders, investors, partners and agents.
Article 7. | Successors; Binding Agreement |
7.1 Successors of Callon. Callon will require any successor (whether direct or indirect, by purchase, merger, consolidation, or otherwise) to all or substantially all of the business and/or assets of Callon, by agreement in form and substance satisfactory to Executive, expressly to assume and agree to perform this Agreement in the same manner and to the same extent that Callon would be required to perform it if no such succession had taken place. Failure of Callon to obtain such agreement prior to the effectiveness of any such succession shall be a breach hereof and shall entitle Executive to compensation from Callon in the same amount and on the same terms as Executive would be entitled hereunder if Executive terminated his employment for Good Reason, the date on which any such succession becomes effective shall be deemed the Date of Termination; provided however, that such compensation shall be paid to Executive only if such successor is a considered to be a successor to Callon by reason of a Change of Control. As used herein, “Xxxxxx Petroleum Company” shall mean Callon as hereinbefore defined and any successor to its business and/or assets as aforesaid which executes and delivers the agreement provided for in this Section 7.1, or which otherwise becomes bound by all the terms and provisions hereof by operation of law. Wherever appropriate to the intention
of the parties, the respective rights and obligations of the parties hereunder shall survive any termination or expiration of this Agreement.
7.2 Executive’s Heirs, Etc. This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by Executive’s personal or legal representatives, executors, administrators, successors, heirs, distributees, devisees, and legatees. If Executive should die while any amounts would still be payable to him hereunder as if he had continued to live, all such amounts, unless otherwise provided herein, shall be paid in accordance with the terms hereof to his designee or, if there be no such designee, to his estate upon prior receipt by Callon of a proper notice regarding the legal representative of such estate.
Article 8. | Notice |
For the purposes hereof, notices and all other communications provided for herein shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given when delivered or mailed. Each notice or other communication required or permitted under this Agreement shall be in writing and transmitted or delivered by personal delivery, prepaid courier or messenger service (whether overnight or same-day), prepaid telecopy or facsimile, or prepaid certified or registered United States mail (with return receipt requested), addressed to Callon at its principal place of business and to Executive at his address as shown on the records of Callon, provided that all notices to Callon shall be directed to the attention of the Chief Executive Officer of Callon with a copy to the Secretary of Callon, or to such other address provided in writing in accordance herewith, except that notices of change of address shall be effective only upon receipt, or at such other address as the recipient has designated by notice to the other party.
Each notice or communication so transmitted, delivered, or sent in person, by courier or messenger service, or by certified United States mail, shall be deemed given, received, and effective on the date delivered to or refused by the intended recipient (with the return receipt, or the equivalent record of the courier or messenger, being deemed conclusive evidence of delivery or refusal.) Nevertheless, if the date of delivery is after 5:00 p.m. (local time of the recipient) on a business day, the notice or other communication shall be deemed given, received and effective on the next business day.
Article 9. | Miscellaneous |
9.1 Waiver and Amendment. No provisions hereof may be amended, modified, waived, or discharged unless such amendment, waiver, modification, or discharge is agreed to in writing and signed by Executive and such officer as may be specifically designated by the Board (which shall in any event include Xxxxxx’x Chief Executive Officer). No waiver by either party hereto at any time of any breach by the other party hereto of, or compliance with, any condition or provision hereof, to be performed by such other party shall be deemed a waiver of similar or dissimilar provisions or conditions at the same or at any prior or subsequent time. No agreements or representations, oral or otherwise, express or implied, with respect to the subject matter hereof have been made by either party which are not set forth expressly herein.
9.2 Tax Consequences. Callon or its affiliate shall withhold from any payments or benefits under this Agreement (whether or not otherwise acknowledged under this Agreement) all federal, state, local, or other taxes that it is required to withhold.
Executive understands, acknowledges, and agrees that Company cannot, and does not, provide any tax or legal advice to Executive. Any tax-related information that has been provided, or will be provided, to Executive is solely for informational purposes and should not be relied upon by Executive. Executive acknowledges that he has reviewed with his own tax advisors the tax consequences of this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby. Executive is relying solely on his tax advisors and not on any statements or representations of Callon or any of its agents and understands that Executive (and not Callon) shall be responsible for Executive’s own tax liability that may arise as a result of this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby, except as otherwise specifically provided in this Agreement.
9.3 Employment Status. Nothing in this Agreement provides the Executive with any right to continued employment with Callon or any of its affiliates, or shall interfere with the right of Callon or an affiliate to terminate the Executive’s employment at any time subject to Xxxxxx’x obligations under this Agreement.
9.4 No Exclusivity. Except as expressly provided herein, this Agreement shall not prevent or limit the Executive’s participation in any other plan or arrangement maintained by Callon for which the Executive qualifies, nor shall it impair any rights that the Executive may have under any other plan, program, contract or agreement with Callon or any of its affiliates.
9.5 Reformation and Severability. The Parties fully intend that this Agreement comply with all applicable laws and legal requirements. Should any provision of this Agreement be declared or be determined by any court of competent jurisdiction to be illegal, invalid or unenforceable, the Agreement shall first be reformed to make the provision at issue enforceable and effective to the full extent permitted by law. If such reformation is not possible, all remaining provisions of this Agreement shall otherwise
remain in full force and effect and shall be construed as if such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision has not been included herein.
9.6 Entire Agreement. This Agreement sets forth the entire agreement of the Parties and fully supersedes and replaces any and all prior agreements, promises, representations, or understandings, written or oral, between Callon and Executive relating to the subject matter of this Agreement. This Agreement may be amended or modified only by a written instrument identified as an amendment hereto that is executed by both Executive and by the Chief Executive Officer of Callon (or another officer who is authorized by the Board) on behalf of Callon.
9.7 Executive Acknowledgment. Executive acknowledges that (a) he is knowledgeable and sophisticated as to business matters, including the subject matter of this Agreement, (b) he has read this Agreement and understands its terms and conditions, (c) he has had ample opportunity to review and discuss this Agreement with legal counsel of his choice prior to execution should he desire to do so, and (d) no strict rules of construction will apply for or against the drafter or any other party. Executive represents that there are no restrictions on his right to enter into this Agreement.
Article 10. | Validity |
The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision hereof shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision hereof, which shall remain in full force and effect.
Article 11. | Legal Expenses |
In accordance with the provisions of Section 3.6, Callon agrees to pay, upon written demand therefore by Executive, all legal fees and expenses which Executive may reasonably incur as a result of any dispute or contest (regardless of the outcome thereof) by or with Callon or others regarding the validity or enforceability of, or liability under, any provision hereof (including, without limitation, as a result of any contest about the amount of any payment pursuant to Section 4.2), plus interest on such legal fees and expenses at the “applicable federal rate” (as defined in Section 1274(d) of the Code). In any such action brought by Executive for damages or to enforce any provision hereof, he shall be entitled to seek both legal and equitable relief and remedies, including, without limitation, specific performance of Xxxxxx’x obligations hereunder, in his sole discretion.
Article 12. | Continuation of Salary During Dispute |
In the event of Executive’s termination of employment, if there is any dispute or contest by or with Callon or others regarding the validity or enforceability of, or liability under, any provision hereof (including as a result of any contest about the amount of any payments pursuant to Article 4), and upon written demand by the Executive, Callon shall continue to pay the Executive his base salary and maintain all life, disability, medical, dental, accident, and health insurance coverage in effect immediately prior to the date of such dispute. Said periodic payments shall be made in accordance with Xxxxxx’x normal payroll practices. Payments shall continue until final resolution of such dispute or contest either by an agreement between the Executive and Callon or final order of a court with proper jurisdiction. In the event that Callon substantially prevails in such dispute, the Executive shall be obligated to repay to Callon all amounts he has received for base salary under this Article 12 (after taxes applicable thereto) plus interest at the “applicable federal rate” (as defined in Section 1274(d) of the Code).
Article 13. | Counterparts |
This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which together will constitute one and the same instrument.
Article 14. | Governing Law; Jurisdiction |
All matters or issues relating to the interpretation, construction, validity, and enforcement of this Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Texas, without giving effect to any choice-of-law principle that would cause the application of the laws of any jurisdiction other than Texas. Jurisdiction and venue of any action or proceeding relating to this Agreement or any Dispute shall be exclusively in the State of Texas (unless otherwise mutually agreed by the parties), and the parties hereby waive any objection to such jurisdiction or venue including, without limitation, to the effect that the location is inconvenient.
Article 15. | Interpretative Matters |
In the interpretation of the Agreement, except where the context otherwise requires:
(a) | “including” or “include” does not denote or imply any limitation; |
(b) | “or” has the inclusive meaning “and/or”; |
(c) | the singular includes the plural, and vice versa, and each gender includes each of the others; |
(d) | captions or headings are for reference purposes only, and they are not to be considered in interpreting the Agreement; |
(e) | “Section” refers to a Section of the Agreement, unless otherwise stated in the Agreement; |
(f) | “month” refers to a calendar month; and |
(g) | a reference to any statute, rule, or regulation includes (1) any amendment thereto, (2) any statute, rule, or regulation enacted or promulgated in replacement thereof, and (3) any regulation or other authority issued by the appropriate governmental entity under, or with respect to, a statute. |
Article 16. | Compliance with Section 409A |
Any provisions of the Agreement that are subject to Section 409A of the Code (“Section 409A”) are intended to comply with all applicable requirements of Section 409A, or an exemption from the application of Section 409A, and shall be interpreted and administered accordingly. Any ambiguous provision will be construed in a manner that is compliant with, or exempt from, the application of Section 409A. Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement to the contrary, a termination of employment shall not be deemed to have occurred for purposes of any provision of this Agreement providing for the payment of any amount or benefit that constitutes “non-qualified deferred compensation” (within the meaning of Section 409A) upon or following a termination of the Executive’s employment unless such termination is also a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 409A and, for purposes of any such provision, references herein to a “termination,” “termination of employment” or like terms shall mean “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 409A.
Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement to the contrary, if any payment or other benefit provided herein would be subject to additional taxes and interest under Section 409A because the timing of such payment is not delayed as required by Section 409A for a “specified employee”, then if the Executive is on the applicable date a specified employee, any such payment that the Executive would otherwise be entitled to receive during the first six months following his “separation from service” (as defined under Section 409A) shall be accumulated and paid, within ten (10) days after the date that is six months following the Executive’s date of “separation from service”, or such earlier date upon which such amount can be paid under Section 409A without being subject to such additional taxes and interest such as, for example, upon the Executive’s death.
With respect to any amounts or benefits that are subject to Section 409A, this Agreement shall in all respects be administered in accordance with Section 409A. Each payment under this Agreement shall be treated as a separate payment for purposes of Section 409A. In no event may the Executive, directly or indirectly, designate the calendar year of any payment to be made under this Agreement.
All reimbursements and in-kind benefits provided under this Agreement that constitute deferred compensation within the meaning of Section 409A shall be made or provided in accordance with the requirements of Section 409A. Within the time period permitted by Section 409A, Callon may, in consultation with the Executive, modify the Agreement in the least restrictive manner necessary and without any diminution in the value of payments or other benefits to the Executive hereunder, in order to avoid the imposition of accelerated tax, additional tax and/or penalties on the Executive under Section 409A.
[Signature page follows.]
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties hereto have executed this amended and restated Agreement on the dates set forth below, to be effective as of the Amendment Date as defined in the first paragraph hereof.
XXXXXX PETROLEUM COMPANY
By: ___________________
L. Xxxxxxx Xxxxx
Chairman of the Board
Date: November 6, 2017____
EXECUTIVE
By: __________________
Date: __________________
