ITEM 11.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The following discussion of executive compensation contains descriptions of various employment-related agreements and employee benefit plans. These descriptions are qualified in their entirety by reference to the full text of the referenced agreements and plans, which have been filed by us as exhibits to our reports on Forms 10-K, 10-K/A, 10-Q and 8-K filed with the SEC.
COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
Executive Compensation
This Compensation Discussion and Analysis (“CD&A”) provides information about our compensation objectives, policies, and actions for our principal executive officer, our principal financial officer and our other three most highly-compensated executive officers for the year 2017. It is intended to place in perspective the information contained in the executive compensation tables that follow this discussion. This CD&A provides a general description of our compensation program and specific information about its various components.
Throughout this discussion, the following individuals are referred to as the Named Executive Officers (or “Named Executive Officers”) and are included in the Summary Compensation Table:
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Sakiru Adefemi (Femi) Ayoade, Chief Executive Officer;
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Dippo Bello, Vice President, Financial Planning and Treasurer;
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Jean-Michel Malek, former Interim Chief Executive Officer, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary;
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Dr. Kase Lukman Lawal, former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer;
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Babatunde (Segun) Omidele, former Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer;
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Daniel Ogbonna, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer; and
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Heidi Wong, Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer
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Compensation Objectives
Our future success and the ability to create long-term value for our stockholders depends on our ability to attract, retain, and motivate the most qualified individuals in the oil and gas industry. Our Board of Directors and our Compensation Committee believes that executive compensation programs should be designed to reward performance that supports our long-term strategy and achievement of our short-term goals. Our Compensation Committee has structured our executive compensation program to achieve the following key objectives:
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compete effectively to attract and retain the highest quality people who will determine our long-term success;
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align the interests of those individuals with those of our stockholders and long-term value creation;
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tie some portion of compensation to the attainment of our annual and long-term performance targets that also take into account and reflect individual contributions;
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ensure that performance based compensation does not encourage excessive risk taking; and
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reflect the unique qualifications, skills, experience, and responsibilities of each individual.
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Executive Compensation Decision Making Process
The Role of the Compensation Committee
The Board delegates to the Compensation Committee responsibility for establishing the compensation of its executive officers, pursuant to a written charter adopted by the Board and posted on the Company’s website at www.erinenergy.com. Each of the four members of the Compensation Committee meets the independence requirements contained in the NYSE American Company Guide. The Compensation Committee currently consists of four independent, non-management members of the Board: Dr. Lee Brown (Chairman), J. Michael Stinson, Dudu Hlatshwayo and Dr. John Rudley.
The Compensation Committee is responsible for the oversight and administration of the Company’s base salary, annual incentive, long-term incentive compensation and benefit programs for executive officers. The Compensation Committee’s key compensation responsibilities are:
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to monitor the elements of compensation for the Chief Executive Officer and executive officers to determine whether such programs are properly achieving their intended purpose of aligning executive compensation and Company performance, and do not promote adverse risk-taking that could be detrimental to the Company or stockholders;
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to ensure our compensation programs are able to attract, retain, and motivate qualified executive level talent that is fair, reasonable, and competitive for the purpose of increasing stockholder value;
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to review the results of stockholder advisory votes on executive compensation and consider whether to make adjustments based on those advisory votes;
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to assist in the establishment of corporate goals and objectives relating to the incentive compensation programs of the executive officers;
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to review and make recommendations to the Board to approve any equity-based compensation plans that are not subject to stockholder approval;
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to review and make recommendations to the Board to approve employment, severance, change-in-control, and retention agreements and amendments to those agreements;
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to make recommendations to the Board regarding the adoption or modification of any stock ownership guidelines applicable to executive officers or directors; and
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to monitor, assess and implement market competitive compensation for the Board.
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The Compensation Committee believes that its members experiences and judgment are as important as the data it utilizes to assess our compensation programs. The Compensation Committee gives consideration to each executive officer’s personal contributions to the Company, their qualifications, and individual performance when assessing each executive’s compensation.
Role of Management
Typically, our Chief Executive Officer plays a significant role in the compensation-setting process. Generally, he attends and participates in all Compensation Committee meetings (except executive sessions of the Compensation Committee or discussions involving his own compensation). Specifically, he:
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evaluates the performance of our executive officers and other employees;
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assists in establishing corporate performance goals and objectives and the related target levels; and
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recommends base salary adjustments and equity awards for our executive officers (other than for himself).
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The Compensation Committee considers, but is not bound to and does not always accept, our Chief Executive Officer’s recommendations with respect to the compensation of our executive officers. While the Compensation Committee seeks input primarily from our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Administrative Officer, it also consults with other executive officers to obtain recommendations with respect to our compensation programs, practices, and packages for executive officers and other employees. Other than participating in an annual evaluation process with our Chief Executive Officer and any discussions with the Compensation Committee, the other Named Executive Officers do not play a role in their own compensation determinations.
Our Compensation Peer Group
In developing our compensation structure, we review the compensation and benefit practices, as well as levels of pay, of a compensation peer group of companies selected by the Compensation Committee from oil and natural gas exploration and development companies. The Compensation Committee considered relevant comparable data from the following list of 15 companies as representative of our peer group of companies, based on annual revenues, market capitalization, and total assets:
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Africa Oil Corporation
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Approach Resources, Inc.
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Bonanza Creek Energy, Inc.
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Caim Energy Plc.
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Callon Petroleum
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Evolution Petroleum Corp.
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Ophir Energy Plc.
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Premier Oil Plc.
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Northern Oil & Gas, Inc.
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Resolute Energy Corp.
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Sanchez Energy Corp.
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Seplat Petroleum Development Co. Ltd.
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SPDR O&G E&P ETF Index
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VAALCO Energy, Inc.
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W&T Offshore Inc.
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In preparation for our 2017 compensation review, we compiled compensation data for the peer group from a variety of sources, including proxy statements and other publicly filed documents. This compensation data was then used to compare the compensation of our Named Executive Officers to our peer group of companies. This process was only applied for establishing the remuneration package of the CEO and Non-executive Chairman. We did not benchmark remuneration of other executives with our peer group because the Compensation Committee deemed that there was no significant change in the market situation that would trigger adjustment of the remuneration of executives.
We compete for executive talent capable of executing our business strategy and managing our business with a much broader industry group than our compensation peer group, including larger, more established industry participants. Our compensation practices also take into account, among other factors, corporate performance, projected growth in the Company, an executive’s experience and value to the Company, individual performance and the current competitive environment for talented management. Thus, from time to time, we may vary targeted compensation and the balance of each element of compensation relative to our compensation peer group depending on our assessment of these factors and our view of the most effective means of aligning executive compensation with the achievement of our business objectives under the circumstances. Accordingly, in response to our assessment of the factors enumerated above, for 2017 we targeted compensation at the 50th percentile of our 2017 compensation peer group.
Our Compensation Committee considers our corporate performance as well as individual performance. As a general matter, in considering annual cash incentives, the Compensation Committee assigns a target percentage based upon corporate performance and other considerations and then assesses individual performance based on a predetermined matrix of factors; however, ultimately, any such award is entirely discretionary, as our Compensation Committee believes retaining discretion over the amount of such awards is imperative in light of the dynamic nature of the Company’s activities, the potential for rapid changes in the business environment and the limitations inherent in quantitative measures of performance under such circumstances.
Compensation of Named Executive Officers
2017 Executive Compensation Program Design
In order to achieve the objectives of our executive compensation program, we have developed a balanced compensation package consisting of:
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performance-based annual cash incentives;
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long-term equity incentives; and
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employment benefits and perquisites.
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The combination of cash and equity is intended to balance the reward opportunities associated with short-term performance with the potential for achieving longer term results, as well as effective retention. From time to time, the Compensation Committee may vary the mix of compensation utilized, depending upon the Compensation Committee’s current view of the most efficacious method to provide incentives under current market conditions, taking into account the compensation practices of our compensation peer group. The Compensation Committee utilized information from research reports issued by reputable consulting firms that specialized in directors and executives compensation (“Research Reports”) in the analysis of each component and the mix of these components as compared to our peer group. In addition, certain executive officers are provided with severance agreements, perquisites and benefits. Each one of these elements of compensation serves a particular purpose, as discussed below.
Based on its reviews of total compensation and such other factors, the Compensation Committee believes that the total compensation paid to the Named Executive Officers is reasonable. However, compensation practices and philosophy are an evolving practice and future changes may be made to take into account changed circumstances, practices, competitive environments and other factors.
Base Salary
Base salary is the fixed annual compensation we pay to each executive officer for performing specific job responsibilities. It represents the minimum income an executive officer may receive in any year. We pay each executive officer a base salary in order to:
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recognize each executive officer’s unique value and contribution to the Company;
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remain competitive for executive talent within our industry; and
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reflect position and level of responsibility.
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We seek to maintain executive base salary levels at or near the market midpoint, or 50th percentile, of our peer group based on benchmark company data compiled in the Research Reports. The salary of the Chief Executive Officer is determined by the Compensation Committee, whereas the salaries of other executive officers are determined by the Compensation Committee with input and recommendations from the Chief Executive Officer. In addition to job responsibility and competitive market data, we give consideration to individual performance of the executive and internal pay equity relative to other executive officers within the Company. At the discretion of the Compensation Committee, salaries are generally reviewed annually as part of the Company’s performance review process. For 2017, base salaries were kept flat in recognition of the current commodity price environment and in keeping with the Company’s desire to remain competitive in the marketplace for executives.
Performance-Based Annual Cash Incentives
Annually, subsequent to year-end, the Compensation Committee reviews performance-based cash incentive compensation to determine to what extent the Compensation Committee would make annual incentive awards to its Named Executive Officers for the preceding fiscal year. We provide annual incentive compensation to our executive officers on a discretionary basis for the
achievement of short-term corporate goals and to recognize individual and team achievements. The Compensation Committee reviews recommendations from the Chief Executive Officer. For 2017, in recognition of the current commodity price environment and in keeping with the Company’s desire to remain competitive in the marketplace for executives, the Named Executive Officers were awarded performance-based incentive compensation. The incentive compensation was paid 50 percent in cash and 50 percent by the issuance of restricted shares of the Company’s common stock in lieu of cash.
Long-Term Equity Incentive
The Compensation Committee periodically reviews the performance of the executive officers of the Company and grants long-term equity compensation incentives under its 2009 Equity Incentive Plan. The Compensation Committee believes long-term incentive based equity compensation is an important component of our overall compensation program because it:
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rewards for the achievement of long-term goals of the Company;
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aligns our executives’ interests with the long-term interests of our stockholders;
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encourages executive retention; and
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conserves cash resources for the Company.
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The Compensation Committee has the authority under the Equity Incentive Plan to award equity incentive compensation to our executive officers in such amounts and on such terms as the Compensation Committee determines appropriate in its sole discretion. The Compensation Committee reviewed market analysis information in the Research Reports to determine the appropriate amount of equity to grant to its executive officers based on market competitive data, also taking into consideration Company performance, individual performance and retention concerns.
Since 2015, our long-term equity-based incentive compensation has included a performance shares award program. In deciding to utilize performance shares, we considered the compensation practices of our compensation peer group and other industry participants that utilize performance shares, taking into account our overall objective to provide incentives to our executive officers that are aligned with our stockholders and our business strategy. Performance shares are designed to provide our executive officers with incentive opportunities based on total stockholder return using a performance and vesting period of three years from the date of grant. The purpose of the awards is to reinforce our objectives for sustained long-term performance and value creation, to balance short- and long-term decision making and help provide competitive total compensation opportunities.
For 2017, 50% of long-term equity incentives for the executive officers consisted of performance shares, and 50% consisted of restricted stock. We felt this mix was appropriate based on peer group data and our view of the appropriate allocation of risks and rewards for executive officers based on their relative influence over our performance, as measured by stock price.
The Compensation Committee decided to utilize a single performance measure tied to total share return when compared to our compensation peer group. If our total share return is in the 100th percentile of our compensation peer group, the officers will be entitled to shares of common stock equal to 150% of the performance award. To achieve the Company’s targeted payout of 100% of the performance award, the total share return must be in the 75th percentile. If the total share return falls below the 38th percentile, our threshold payout, the executive officers will receive 0% of the performance award. For more detail on long-term equity compensation, please see “Grants of Plan-Based Awards in 2017”, below.
Employment Benefits and Perquisites
401(k) Plan
In 2007, the Company adopted a defined contribution 401(k) plan for its U.S. employees. All eligible employees, including the Named Executive Officers, may participate in our 401(k) plan. The plan is a tax-qualified, defined contribution retirement plan, which is designed to assist participants with saving for retirement. Eligible employees, including Named Executive Officers (who will serve as employees), are allowed to direct pre-tax contributions (up to an annual limit prescribed each year by the Internal Revenue Service) to the plan from their compensation. The Company makes matching contributions equal to the amount of 200% of each employee’s contribution, up to a maximum of 6% of compensation each pay period. Company contributions are immediately vested to the employee.
Perquisites and Other Personal Benefits
We provide the Named Executive Officers (who will serve as employees), with perquisites and other personal benefits that the Compensation Committee believes are reasonable and consistent with the overall compensation program to better enable us to
attract and retain our employees for key positions. The Compensation Committee has determined that the following other perquisites are reasonable for some or all of our Named Executive Officers, including: health and welfare benefits and premiums on life insurance. Attributed costs of the personal benefits and perquisites that are described above for the Named Executive Officers for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017 are included in the “Summary Compensation Table”. The general benefits offered to our Named Executive Officers are reviewed by our Compensation Committee each year in conjunction with the annual review of executive officer compensation.
Employment Agreements and Post-Termination Benefits
The Company has entered into employment agreements or compensation arrangements with some of its executive officers, as described below.
Employment Agreement with Sakiru Adefemi (Femi) Ayoade
Effective September 1, 2011, the Company and Mr. Ayoade entered into an Offer Letter (the “Ayoade Employment Agreement”) pursuant to which Mr. Ayoade became a full-time employee of the Company as Engineer. Effective April 1, 2014, Mr. Ayoade was promoted to Country Manager for Nigeria Operations and effective May 16, 2016, became Vice President of Production Operations, receiving an annual base salary of $241,500. Additionally, Mr. Ayoade received (i) a one-time stock option award of 40,580 shares of the Company’s common stock effective February 21, 2014, vesting in 1/3 annual installments on each of the first three anniversaries of such date, and (ii) a one-time award of 40,580 restricted shares of the Company’s common stock, vesting 50% on each of the first two anniversaries of such date, subject in each case to Mr. Ayoade’s continued service on such anniversary dates. Both the option award and restricted stock award were made under the Company’s 2009 Equity Incentive Plan. Mr. Ayoade is also eligible for a discretionary cash performance bonus each year targeted up to 20% of his then-current base salary.
Effective as of May 18, 2017 (“Effective Date”), the Board appointed Mr. Ayoade as the Company’s Chief Executive Officer to replace the Interim Chief Executive Officer, Jean-Michel Malek. As the Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Ayoade’s compensation will consist of a base salary of $330,000 per year, a discretionary cash performance bonus of 0-100% of base salary and an annual long-term incentive equity award valued at up to 200% of base salary awarded in accordance with the Company’s Amended 2009 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended. Additionally, he received 29,166 shares of the Company’s restricted stock, with fifty percent vesting on the first anniversary and fifty percent on the second anniversary of the Effective Date, and 133,333 options to purchase the Company’s stock at a price per share set at the market close price on the grant date, which is the Effective Date, with one-third vesting on the first anniversary, one-third vesting on the second anniversary and one-third vesting on the third anniversary of the Effective Date.
Employment Agreement with Heidi Wong
Effective September 1, 2013, the Company and Ms. Wong entered into an Executive Offer Letter (the “Wong Employment Agreement”) which replaced and superseded the prior employment agreement, dated as of November 24, 2013, between Ms. Wong and the Company. Pursuant to the Wong Employment Agreement, while serving as Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer, Ms. Wong receives an annual base salary of $250,000. Additionally, Ms. Wong received (i) a one-time stock option award of 324,640 shares of the Company’s common stock effective August 21, 2013, vesting in 1/3 annual installments on each of the first three anniversaries of such date, and (ii) a one-time award of 71,015 restricted shares of the Company’s common stock, vesting 50% on each of the first two anniversaries of such date, subject in each case to Ms. Wong’s continued service on such anniversary dates. Both the option award and restricted stock award were made under the Company’s 2009 Equity Incentive Plan. Ms. Wong is also eligible for a discretionary cash performance bonus each year targeted at between 0% and 100% of her then-current base salary, as well as additional equity grants, at the discretion of the Company’s Board. In addition, if the Company terminates Ms. Wong’s employment without Cause (as defined in the Wong Employment Agreement), (i) the Company must pay to Ms. Wong an amount equal to the base salary plus target annual bonus as determined by the Board for the year of termination, (ii) any outstanding restricted stock and stock options will have their vesting period immediately accelerated by 12 months, with all vested Company stock options (including accelerated options) remaining exercisable for a period of 12 months following the date of separation, in exchange for a full release of all claims against the Company and its related parties, and (iii) the Company will reimburse Ms. Wong for up to 12 months for the excess, if any, of her cost of COBRA Continuation Coverage under the Company’s group medical plan above the amount Ms. Wong would have paid for such coverage had Ms. Wong remained an employee of the Company. If the Company terminates Ms. Wong’s employment, she may not, either directly or indirectly, (i) in any manner, utilize or disclose to any person, firm, corporation, association or other entity any confidential information of the Company, (ii) own any interest in, manage, control, participate in, consult with, render services for, or in any manner engage in any businesses in competition with the Company or materially adverse to the Company (unless the Board shall have authorized such activity and the Company shall have consented thereto in writing) for a period of one year following such termination, (iii) through another entity induce or
otherwise attempt to influence any employee of the Company to leave the Company’s employment or in any way interfere with the relationship between the Company and any employee thereof for a period of one year following such termination and (iv) induce or attempt to induce any customer, supplier, licensee, joint venture partner, shareholder, licensor or other business relation of the Company to cease doing business with the Company or in any way interfere with the relationship between any such customer, supplier, licensee, joint venture partner, shareholder, licensor or business relation of the Company for a period of one year following such termination.
In May 2016. Ms. Wong was appointed Senior Vice President, Corporate Services.
Employment Agreement with Jean-Michel Malek (Terminated)
Effective November 16, 2015, the Company and Mr. Malek entered into an Employment Offer Letter (the “Malek Employment Agreement”) pursuant to which Mr. Malek became a full-time employee of the Company as Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary. Subsequently, the Board appointed Mr. Malek as the Company’s Interim Chief Executive Officer effective February 22, 2017 (a position which he held until May 18, 2017). Pursuant to the Malek Employment Agreement, Mr. Malek received an annual base salary of $291,000. Additionally, Mr. Malek received (i) a one-time stock option award of 133,334 shares of the Company’s common stock, vesting in 1/3 annual installments on each of the first three anniversaries of the date of hire, and (ii) a one-time award of 29,167 restricted shares of the Company’s common stock, vesting 50% on each of the first two anniversaries of the date of hire, subject in each case to Mr. Malek’s continued service on such anniversary dates. Both the option award and restricted stock award were made under the Company’s 2009 Equity Incentive Plan. Mr. Malek was also eligible for a discretionary cash performance bonus each year targeted at between 0% and 100% of his then-current base salary, as well as additional equity grants, at the discretion of the Company’s Board.
On May 23, 2017, Mr. Malek entered into a Separation Agreement with the Company (the “Separation Agreement”) pursuant to which he acknowledged his decision to resign as Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary effective May 31, 2017. Under the Separation Agreement, Mr. Malek received a severance payment of $291,000 payable over a 12-month period, less any legally required deductions and withholdings, and the Company accelerated by 12 months the vesting of all outstanding restricted common stock and options exercisable for common stock previously granted to Mr. Malek under the Company’s 2009 Equity Incentive Plan, with all vested options (including accelerated options) remaining exercisable for a period 12 months thereafter. The Separation Agreement included Mr. Malek’s release and waiver of claims against the Company. Further, Mr. Malek entered into a Consulting Agreement on May 23, 2017 with the Company (the “Consulting Agreement”) pursuant to which he will be paid $8,333 per month in exchange for his services. The Consulting Agreement commences on June 1, 2017 and ends May 31, 2018, unless either party terminates the Consulting Agreement by providing 30 days’ written notice.
Employment Agreement with Babatunde (Segun) Omidele (Terminated)
Effective September 1, 2011, the Company and Mr. Omidele entered into an Employment Offer Letter (the “Omidele Employment Agreement”) pursuant to which Mr. Omidele became a full-time employee of the Company as Senior Vice President, Business Development & New Ventures (subsequently he became the Chief Executive Officer of the Company). Pursuant to the Omidele Employment Agreement, Mr. Omidele received an annual base salary of $280,000. Additionally, Mr. Omidele received (i) a one-time stock option award of 133,334 shares of the Company’s common stock, vesting in 1/3 annual installments on each of the first three anniversaries of the date of hire, and (ii) a one-time award of 71,015 restricted shares of the Company’s common stock, vesting 50% on each of the first two anniversaries of the date of hire, subject in each case to Mr. Omidele’s continued service on such anniversary dates. Both the option award and restricted stock award were made under the Company’s 2009 Equity Incentive Plan. Mr. Omidele was also eligible for a discretionary cash performance bonus each year targeted at between 0% and 100% of his then-current base salary, as well as additional equity grants, at the discretion of the Company’s Board.
Effective February 22, 2017, the Board accepted Mr. Omidele’s resignation as an officer of the Company.
Employment Agreement with Daniel Ogbonna (Terminated)
Effective September 10, 2015, the Company and Mr. Ogbonna entered into an Employment Offer Letter (the “Ogbonna Employment Agreement”) pursuant to which Mr. Ogbonna became a full-time employee of the Company as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Pursuant to the Ogbonna Employment Agreement, Mr. Ogbonna receives an annual base salary of $295,000. Additionally, Mr. Ogbonna received (i) a one-time stock option award of 133,334 shares of the Company’s common stock, vesting in 1/3 annual installments on each of the first three anniversaries of the date of hire, and (ii) a one-time award of 29,167 restricted shares of the Company’s common stock, vesting 50% on each of the first two anniversaries of the date of hire, subject in each case to Mr. Ogbonna’s continued service on such anniversary dates. Both the option award and restricted stock award were made under the Company’s 2009 Equity Incentive Plan. Mr. Ogbonna is also eligible for a discretionary cash performance bonus each
year targeted at between 0% and 100% of his then-current base salary, as well as additional equity grants, at the discretion of the Company’s Board. In addition, if the Company terminates Mr. Ogbonna’s employment without Cause (as defined in the Ogbonna Employment Agreement), (i) the Company must pay to Mr. Ogbonna an amount equal to the base salary plus target annual bonus as determined by the Board for the year of termination, (ii) any outstanding restricted stock and stock options will have their vesting period immediately accelerated by 12 months, with all vested Company stock options (including accelerated options) remaining exercisable for a period of 12 months following the date of separation, in exchange for a full release of all claims against the Company and its related parties, and (iii) the Company will reimburse Mr. Ogbonna for up to 12 months for the excess, if any, of his cost of COBRA Continuation Coverage under the Company’s group medical plan above the amount Mr. Ogbonna would have paid for such coverage had Mr. Ogbonna remained an employee of the Company. If the Company terminates Mr. Ogbonna’s employment, he may not, either directly or indirectly, (i) in any manner, utilize or disclose to any person, firm, corporation, association or other entity any confidential information of the Company, (ii) own any interest in, manage, control, participate in, consult with, render services for, or in any manner engage in any businesses in competition with the Company or materially adverse to the Company (unless the Board shall have authorized such activity and the Company shall have consented thereto in writing) for a period of one year following such termination, (iii) through another entity induce or otherwise attempt to influence any employee of the Company to leave the Company’s employment or in any way interfere with the relationship between the Company and any employee thereof for a period of one year following such termination and (iv) induce or attempt to induce any customer, supplier, licensee, joint venture partner, shareholder, licensor or other business relation of the Company to cease doing business with the Company or in any way interfere with the relationship between any such customer, supplier, licensee, joint venture partner, shareholder, licensor or business relation of the Company for a period of one year following such termination.
On June 29, 2017, Daniel Ogbonna resigned as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Company effective as of the close of business on June 30, 2017.
Accounting and Tax Considerations
Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code, as amended, generally disallows a tax deduction to public companies for compensation in excess of $1.0 million paid to any executive officer unless such compensation is paid pursuant to a qualified performance-based compensation plan. All compensation awarded to our executive officers in 2017 is expected to be tax deductible. The Board considers such deductibility and the potential cost to the Company when granting awards and considering salary changes.
The Company accounts for equity awards under the provisions of Accounting Standards Codification Topic 718, Stock Compensation (ASC 718). The Company charges the estimated fair value of option and restricted stock awards to income over the time of service provided by the employee to earn the award, typically the vesting period. The fair value of options is measured using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The fair value of non-vested stock awards issued under the Company’s 2007 Stock Plan was measured by the fair market value of common stock of the Company determined in accordance with the 2007 Stock Plan as the mean between the representative bid and asked prices on the close of business the day immediately prior to the grant date as reported by Pink Sheets LLC, with no discount for vesting period or other restrictions. The fair value of non-vested stock awards issued under the Company’s 2009 Equity Incentive Plan is measured by the fair market value of common stock of the Company determined in accordance with the 2009 Equity Incentive Plan as the closing sales price for such stock as quoted on the NYSE American exchange on the date of grant, with no discount for vesting period or other restrictions. The compensation expense to the Company under ASC 718 is one of the factors the Board considers in determining equity awards to be granted, and also may influence the vesting period chosen.
Other Compensation Policies
Stock Ownership Guidelines
In May 2014, the Board established stock ownership guidelines for each of the non-employee directors of the Company and any executive officers of the Company that such non-employee directors or executive officers must retain at least 60% of each stock award for an additional three years after such award becomes fully vested. These stock ownership guidelines apply to all stock awards vesting after May 2014, unless otherwise approved by the Board.
Securities Trading Policy
Our securities trading policy provides that executive officers, including the Named Executive Officers, and our directors, may not, among other things, purchase or sell Company stock except during certain windows of time and under the other conditions contained in our policy.
Summary Compensation Table
The following table sets forth information concerning the annual compensation for our Named Executive Officers during the fiscal years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015.
SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
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Name and Principal Position
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Year
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Salary
($)
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Bonus
($)
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Stock
Awards
($)
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Option
Awards
($)
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All other
Compensation
($) *
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Total ($)
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Sakiru Adefemi (Femi) Ayoade
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2017
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297,613
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—
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72,382
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130,098
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74,682
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(8)(9)
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574,775
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Chief Executive Officer and Former
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2016
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236,708
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13,255
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17,244
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—
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12,995
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(8)
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280,202
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Vice President of Production Operations
(1)
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2015
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—
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—
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|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Jean-Michel Malek
(2)
|
|
2017
|
|
121,250
|
|
|
110,000
|
|
314,665
|
|
|
384,218
|
|
252,388
|
|
|
(8)(10)
|
|
1,182,521
|
|
Former Interim Chief Executive
|
|
2016
|
|
291,000
|
|
|
—
|
|
272,813
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
10,655
|
|
|
(8)
|
|
574,468
|
|
Officer, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary (
1)(4)
|
|
2015
|
|
36,375
|
|
|
—
|
|
111,710
|
|
|
267,649
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
|
415,734
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
—
|
|
Dippo Bello
|
|
2017
|
|
180,000
|
|
|
14,000
|
|
17,632
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
10,800
|
|
|
(8)
|
|
222,432
|
|
Vice President, Financial Planning
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
—
|
|
and Treasurer
(3)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
—
|
|
Dr. Kase Lukman Lawal
|
|
2017
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
|
—
|
|
Former Chairman and
|
|
2016
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
760,000
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
|
760,000
|
|
Chief Executive Officer (4)
|
|
2015
|
|
400,000
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
400,000
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
|
800,000
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
—
|
|
Babatunde (Segun) Omidele
|
|
2017
|
|
91,538
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
664,998
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
222,365
|
|
|
(11)
|
|
978,901
|
|
Former Chief Executive Officer
(5)
|
|
2016
|
|
329,936
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
337,500
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
116,628
|
|
|
(8)(12)
|
|
784,064
|
|
|
|
2015
|
|
300,000
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
337,500
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
18,000
|
|
|
(8)
|
|
655,500
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Daniel Ogbonna
|
|
2017
|
|
147,500
|
|
|
140,000
|
|
|
389,377
|
|
|
384,218
|
|
|
19,850
|
|
|
(8)
|
|
1,080,945
|
|
Former Senior Vice President and
|
|
2016
|
|
295,000
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
331,875
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
(8)
|
|
626,875
|
|
Former Chief Financial Officer
(6)
|
|
2015
|
|
90,580
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
118,126
|
|
|
289,338
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
(8)
|
|
498,044
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Heidi Wong
|
|
2017
|
|
250,000
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
285,925
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
88,315
|
|
|
(8)
|
|
624,240
|
|
Senior Vice President,
|
|
2016
|
|
250,000
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
234,375
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
51,658
|
|
|
(8)(13)
|
|
536,033
|
|
Corporate Services
(7)
|
|
2015
|
|
250,000
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
234,375
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
15,000
|
|
|
(8)
|
|
499,375
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
*Does not include perquisites and other personal benefits, or property, unless the aggregate amount of such compensation is more than $10,000. None of our Named Executive Officers received any change in pension value and nonqualified deferred compensation earnings during the periods presented.
# Represents the grant date fair value of restricted common stock and options awards for each of the years presented. The assumptions used in estimating the grant date fair value of option awards are found in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 11 - Stock Based Compensation in the Company’s 2017 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 16, 2018.
|
|
|
1)
|
Mr. Ayoade was appointed Vice President of Production Operations in May 2016, and has served as a member of the Board of Directors since May 2017. Mr. Ayoade was appointed as Chief Executive Officer of the Company on May 18, 2017, taking the place of Mr. Malek who previously served as Interim Chief Executive Officer.
|
|
|
|
2)
|
Mr. Malek was appointed Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary effective November 16, 2015 and Interim Chief Executive Officer effective February 22, 2017.
|
|
|
|
3)
|
Since June 30, 2017, Mr. Bello has performed functions similar to those of a principal financial and principal accounting officer of the Company.
|
|
|
|
4)
|
Dr. Lawal retired as the Chairman of the Board and the Chief Executive Officer effective May 26, 2016.
|
|
|
|
5)
|
Mr. Omidele was appointed Chief Executive Officer effective May 26, 2016, and he resigned effective February 22, 2017.
|
|
|
|
6)
|
Mr. Ogbonna was appointed Chief Financial Officer effective September 10, 2015. On June 29, 2017, Mr. Ogbonna resigned as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Company effective as of the close of business on June 30, 2017.
|
|
|
|
7)
|
Ms. Wong was appointed Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer in September 2013 and Senior Vice President, Corporate Services in May 2016.
|
|
|
|
8)
|
Represents Company 401(k) plan contributions in the respective years, provided on the same basis as for all U.S. employees.
|
|
|
|
9)
|
Includes $12,129 of foreign taxes paid, $12,961 for foreign pension and social security paid, $24,223 for housing and $8,338 for travel.
|
|
|
|
10)
|
Includes $169,750 severance pay, $49,998 for consulting fee and $25,365 of vacation time buyout.
|
|
|
|
11)
|
Includes $197,164 of compensation in lieu of unexercised stock options during 2017 and $19,951 of vacation time buyout.
|
|
|
|
12)
|
Includes $98,582 of compensation in lieu of unexercised stock options during 2016.
|
|
|
|
13)
|
Includes $36,658 of compensation in lieu of unexercised stock options during 2016.
|
The amounts in the salary, bonus, and non-equity incentive plan compensation columns of the “Summary Compensation Table” reflect actual amounts paid for the relevant years, while the amounts in the stock awards column reflect accounting values. The tables entitled “Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year End” and “Option Exercises and Stock Vested” provide further information on the named executive officers’ potential realizable value and actual value realized with respect to their equity awards. The “Summary Compensation Table” should be read in conjunction with the Compensation Discussion and Analysis and the subsequent tables and narrative descriptions.
Pay Ratio Disclosure
CEO to Median Employee Pay Ratio
In August 2015, pursuant to a mandate of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd - Frank Act”), the Securities and Exchange Commission adopted a rule requiring annual disclosure of the ratio of the median employee’s annual total compensation to the total annual compensation of the principal executive officer (‟PEO”). The Company’s PEO is Mr. Ayoade. Registrants must comply with the pay ratio rule for the first fiscal year beginning on or after January 1, 2017. The purpose of the new required disclosure is to provide a measure of the equitability of pay within the organization. Information regarding the Company’s ratio of median employee’s annual total compensation of the PEO, is as follows:
Median Employee total annual compensation: $52,887
Mr. Ayoade (‟PEO”) total annual compensation: $574,775*
Ratio of PEO to Median Employee Compensation: 10.9:1.0
In determining the median employee, a listing was prepared of all employees as of December 31, 2017. Employees on leave of absence were excluded from the list and wages and salaries were annualized for those employees that were not employed for the full year of 2017. The median amount was selected from the annualized list. For simplicity, the value of the Company’s 401(k) plan and medical benefits provided was excluded as all employees, including the PEO, are offered the exact same benefits and the Company utilizes the Internal Revenue Service safe harbor provision for 401(k) discrimination testing. As of December 31, 2017, the Company employed 61 full-time employees and 3 part-time employees, of which 26 were employed in the United States, and 35 in Africa.
* As reflected in the Summary Compensation Table above.
Grants of Plan-Based Awards in 2017
The following table sets forth information concerning grants of plan-based awards to Named Executive Officers under the 2009 Equity Incentive Plan and approved by the Compensation Committee of the Board during fiscal year 2017.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Estimated Future Payouts
Under Equity Incentive
Plan Awards
(1)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name
|
|
Grant Date
|
|
Threshold
|
|
Target
|
|
Maximum
|
|
Stock
Awards:
Number of
Shares of
Common
Stock (#)
|
|
|
Option
Awards:
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Options (#)(3)
|
|
Exercise or
Base Price of
Stock and
Option
Awards
($/Share)(4)
|
|
Closing
Stock
Price on
Date
of Awards
($/Share)(4)
|
|
Grant Date
Fair Value
of Stock
and
Option
Awards
($)(5)
|
Sakiru Adefemi (Femi) Ayoade
|
|
2/15/2017
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
5,098
|
|
(2)
|
|
—
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
19,882
|
|
|
|
5/18/2017
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
29,166
|
|
(2)
|
|
—
|
|
|
1.80
|
|
|
1.80
|
|
|
52,500
|
|
|
|
5/18/2017
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
133,333
|
|
|
1.80
|
|
|
1.80
|
|
|
130,098
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Jean-Michel Malek
|
|
2/15/2017
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
46,635
|
|
(2)
|
|
—
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
181,877
|
|
|
|
2/15/2017
|
|
13,991
|
|
|
46,635
|
|
|
69,953
|
|
|
46,635
|
|
(1)
|
|
—
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
90,938
|
|
|
|
2/15/2017
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
10,731
|
|
(6)
|
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
41,851
|
|
|
|
4/7/2017
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
300,000
|
|
|
2.35
|
|
|
2.35
|
|
|
384,218
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dippo Bello
|
|
2/15/2017
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
4,521
|
|
(2)
|
|
—
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
17,632
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Babatunde (Segun) Omidele
|
|
2/15/2017
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
89,744
|
|
(2)
|
|
—
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
350,000
|
|
|
|
2/15/2017
|
|
26,923
|
|
|
89,744
|
|
|
134,616
|
|
|
89,744
|
|
(1)
|
|
—
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
175,001
|
|
|
|
2/15/2017
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
35,897
|
|
(6)
|
|
—
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
139,997
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Daniel Ogbonna
|
|
2/15/2017
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
56,731
|
|
(2)
|
|
—
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
221,250
|
|
|
|
2/15/2017
|
|
17,019
|
|
|
56,731
|
|
|
85,097
|
|
|
56,731
|
|
(1)
|
|
—
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
110,625
|
|
|
|
2/15/2017
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
14,744
|
|
(6)
|
|
—
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
57,502
|
|
|
|
4/7/2017
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
300,000
|
|
|
2.35
|
|
|
2.35
|
|
|
384,218
|
|
Heidi Wong
|
|
2/15/2017
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
40,064
|
|
(2)
|
|
—
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
156,250
|
|
|
|
2/15/2017
|
|
12,019
|
|
|
40,064
|
|
|
60,096
|
|
|
40,064
|
|
(1)
|
|
—
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
78,125
|
|
|
|
2/15/2017
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
13,218
|
|
(6)
|
|
—
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
3.90
|
|
|
51,550
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1)
|
Represents performance-based restricted stock awards that can be earned over a three-year period only if the established performance target is met and the Named Executive Officers is employed on the vesting date, subject to certain exceptions such as the executive’s death or disability. If performance plan goals are exceeded, the Named Executive Officers can receive up to 150% of target. If plan threshold goals are not met, the Named Executive Officer’s awards are cancelled in their entirety.
|
|
|
|
2)
|
Represents shares of restricted stock. The shares vest 50% on the one year anniversary of the grant date and 50% on the two year anniversary of the grant date, subject to continued service.
|
|
|
|
3)
|
Represents grant of stock options. Vesting in one-third annual installments on the grant date anniversary, subject to continued service.
|
|
|
|
4)
|
The exercise or the base price of restricted stock and option awards is equal to the closing price of the Company’s common stock as reported by the NYSE American on the grant date.
|
|
|
|
5)
|
Aggregate grant date fair value of restricted stock and stock options computed in accordance with ASC Topic 718.
|
|
|
|
6)
|
Represents shares of stock issued that immediately vested.
|
2007 Stock Plan
The Company’s Board and stockholders approved and adopted the 2007 Stock Plan on May 7, 2007 (the “2007 Plan”). The 2007 Plan provides for the grant of restricted stock, incentive and/or non-qualified options, and stock appreciation rights (“SARs”) to employees, directors and consultants of the Company to purchase up to an aggregate of 666,667 shares of common stock. Upon adoption of the 2009 Equity Incentive Plan by the Board in June 2009, the Company’s Board resolved to (i) discontinue further grants and awards of equity securities under the 2007 Plan, except the issuance of Company stock upon exercise of issued and outstanding options issued pursuant to the 2007 Plan, and (ii) amend the 2007 Plan to reduce the number of shares available for issuance under the 2007 Plan to 437,000 from 666,667, and to further reduce the number of shares available for issuance thereunder by such number of shares that from time to time may be returned for issuance under the 2007 Plan upon expiration or termination of any option issued thereunder or repurchase of any restricted stock issued thereunder, and to return all such shares to the Company’s treasury.
The purpose of the 2007 Plan was to provide participants with incentives that would encourage them to acquire a proprietary interest in, and continue to provide services to, the Company, and to attract new employees, directors and consultants with outstanding qualifications. The 2007 Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee on behalf of the Board which has discretion to select optionees and to establish the terms and conditions of each option, subject to the provisions of the 2007 Plan.
Pursuant to the 2007 Plan, the Company could from time to time grant its employees, directors and consultants restricted stock and options to purchase shares of, and SARs with respect to, the Company’s common stock at exercise prices determined by the Board. The exercise price of incentive stock options may not be less than 110% of the fair market value of common stock as of the date of grant. The Internal Revenue Code currently limits to $100,000 the aggregate value of common stock that may be acquired in any one year pursuant to incentive stock options under the 2007 Plan or any other option plan adopted by the Company. Nonqualified options could be granted under the 2007 Plan at an exercise price of not less than 85% of the fair market value of the common stock on the date of grant. Nonqualified options could be granted without regard to any restriction on the amount of common stock that could be acquired pursuant to such options in any one year. Options may not be exercised more than ten years after the date of grant. All stock options are non-transferrable by the grantee (other than upon the grantee’s death) and may be exercised only by the optionee during his service to the Company as an employee, director or consultant or for a specified period of time following termination of such service. The aggregate number of shares of common stock issuable under the 2007 Plan, the number of shares of stock, options and SARs outstanding, and the exercise price thereof are subject to adjustment in the case of certain transactions such as mergers, recapitalizations, stock splits or stock dividends.
Pursuant to the 2007 Plan, in the event of a pending or threatened takeover bid, tender offer or exchange offer for twenty percent (20%) or more of the outstanding common stock or any other class of stock or securities of the Company (other than a tender offer or exchange offer made by the Company or any of its subsidiaries), whether or not deemed a tender offer under applicable federal or state law, or in the event that any person makes any filing under Section 13(d) or 14(d) of the Exchange Act with respect to the Company, other than a filing on Form 13G or Form 13D, the Board may in its sole discretion, without obtaining stockholder approval, take one or more of the following actions to the extent not inconsistent with other provisions of the 2007 Plan: (a) accelerate the exercise dates of any outstanding option or SAR, or make the option or SAR fully vested and exercisable; (b) pay cash to any
or all holders of options or SARs in exchange for the cancellation of their outstanding options or SARs; or (c) make any other adjustments or amendments to the 2007 Plan and outstanding options or SARs and substitute new options or SARs for outstanding options or SARs.
In general, upon the termination of service to the Company as an employee, director or consultant of an optionee or restricted stock or SAR recipient, all options, shares of restricted stock and SARs granted to such person that have not yet vested will immediately terminate, and those options and SARs that have vested as of the date of termination will be exercisable for 90 days after such termination date (12 months in the case of termination by reason of death or disability).
As of December 31, 2017, options to purchase an aggregate of 337,819 shares of common stock and restricted stock grants of an aggregate of 468,903 shares of common stock had been issued under the 2007 Plan, net of forfeiture and cancellations. The 2007 Plan terminated on May 7, 2017.
2009 Equity Incentive Plan
The Company’s Board approved and adopted the 2009 Equity Incentive Plan on June 3, 2009 (as amended, the “2009 Plan”), and the Company’s stockholders approved and adopted the 2009 Plan on July 21, 2009. The Company’s Board approved and adopted an amendment to the 2009 Plan on April 11, 2011, and the Company’s stockholders approved and adopted such amendment on June 24, 2011, that increased the number of shares that may be granted during the life of the 2009 Plan by 1,000,000. The Company’s Board approved and adopted a second amendment to the 2009 Plan on November 18, 2013, and the Company’s stockholders approved and adopted such amendment on February 13, 2014, that increased the number of shares that may be granted during the life of the 2009 Plan by 14,666,667. As amended, the 2009 Plan provides for the grant of restricted stock, incentive and/or non-qualified options, and restricted stock units (“RSUs”), performance units, performance shares and SARs to employees, directors and consultants of the Company to purchase up to an aggregate of 16,666,667 shares of common stock. The purposes of the 2009 Plan are: to attract and retain the best available personnel for positions of substantial responsibility, to provide additional incentive to employees, directors and consultants, and to promote the success of the Company’s business. The 2009 Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee on behalf of the Board, which has the authority to determine the specific terms and conditions of all awards granted under the 2009 Plan, including, without limitation, the number of shares subject to each award, the price to be paid for the shares and the applicable vesting criteria. The administrator has discretion to make all other determinations necessary or advisable for the administration of the Plan.
Pursuant to the 2009 Plan, the Company may from time to time grant its employees, directors and consultants restricted stock and options to purchase shares of, and SARs, RSUs, performance shares and performance units, with respect to, the Company’s common stock at exercise prices determined by the Board. The exercise price of incentive stock options may not be less than 100% (110% in the case of an owner of 10% or more of Company common stock) of the fair market value of common stock as of the date of grant. The Internal Revenue Code currently limits to $100,000 the aggregate value of common stock that may be acquired in any one year pursuant to incentive stock options under the 2009 Plan or any other option plan adopted by the Company. Nonqualified options may be granted under the 2009 Plan at an exercise price of not less than 85% of the fair market value of the common stock on the date of grant. Nonqualified options may be granted without regard to any restriction on the amount of common stock that may be acquired pursuant to such options in any one year. Options may not be exercised more than ten years after the date of grant. All stock options are non-transferable by the grantee (other than upon the grantee’s death) and may be exercised only by the optionee during his service to the Company as an employee, director or consultant or for a specified period of time following termination of such service. The aggregate number of shares of common stock issuable under the 2009 Plan, the number of shares of stock, options, SARs, RSUs, performance units and performance shares outstanding, and the exercise price thereof are subject to adjustment in the case of certain transactions such as mergers, recapitalizations, stock splits or stock dividends.
In general, upon the termination of service to the Company of an optionee or 2009 Plan award recipient as an employee, director or consultant, all options, shares of restricted stock, SARs, RSUs, performance shares and performance units (collectively, “2009 Plan Awards”) granted to such person that have not yet vested will immediately terminate, and those 2009 Plan Awards that have vested as of the date of termination will be exercisable for 90 days after such termination date (12 months in the case of termination by reason of death or disability).
In the event of the proposed dissolution or liquidation of the Company, the Company will notify each 2009 Plan participant as soon as practicable prior to the effective date of such proposed transaction. To the extent it has not been previously exercised, a 2009 Plan Award will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such proposed action. In the event of a merger or change in control of the Company, any or all outstanding 2009 Plan Awards issued may be assumed or replaced by the successor corporation, which assumption or replacement shall be binding on all participants. In the alternative, the successor corporation may substitute equivalent awards or provide substantially similar consideration to participants as was provided to stockholders (after taking into
account the existing provisions of the awards). The successor corporation may also issue, in place of outstanding shares of the Company held by the 2009 Plan participant, substantially similar shares or other property subject to repurchase restrictions no less favorable to the participant. In the event that the successor corporation does not assume or substitute for the 2009 Plan Award, unless the administrator provides otherwise, the participant will fully vest in and have the right to exercise all of his or her outstanding option awards, including shares as to which such option awards would not otherwise be vested or exercisable, all restrictions on restricted stock and restricted stock units will lapse, and, with respect to performance shares and performance units, all performance goals or other vesting criteria will be deemed achieved at target levels and all other terms and conditions met.
As of December 31, 2017, options to purchase an aggregate of 1,977,400 shares of common stock and restricted stock grants of an aggregate of 6,649,748 shares of common stock had been issued under the 2009 Plan, net of forfeitures and cancellations. The 2009 Plan terminates on June 3, 2019.
Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year End
The following table sets forth information concerning outstanding equity awards held by each of the Named Executive Officers as of December 31, 2017.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Option Awards
|
|
Stock Awards
|
Name
|
|
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Exercisable
|
|
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Unexercisable
|
|
Option
Exercise
Price ($)(1)
|
|
Option
Expiration
Date
|
|
Number
of
Shares
That
Have Not
Vested (#)
|
|
Market
Value of
Shares
That
Have Not
Vested
($)(2)
|
Sakiru Adefemi (Femi) Ayoade
|
|
40,580
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
3.42
|
|
|
2/21/2019
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
133,333
|
|
(3)
|
1.80
|
|
|
5/18/2020
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
38,201
|
|
(4)
|
105,053
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Jean-Michel Malek
|
|
88,888
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
3.83
|
|
|
5/31/2018
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
100,000
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
2.35
|
|
|
5/31/2018
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
129,683
|
|
(5)
|
356,628
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dippo Bello
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
7,260
|
|
|
19,964
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dr. Kase Lukman Lawal
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Babatunde (Segun) Omidele
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Daniel Ogbonna
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Heidi Wong
|
|
187,211
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
1.74
|
|
|
8/21/2018
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
36,168
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
3.42
|
|
|
2/21/2019
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
75,738
|
|
(4)
|
208,280
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
111,411
|
|
(5)
|
306,380
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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1)
|
The option exercise price is equal to the fair market value of common stock of the Company determined in accordance with the 2009 Equity Incentive Plan. This represents the closing price on the grant date as reported by NYSE American.
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|
|
|
2)
|
Represents the market value of the shares based on the closing price of the Company’s common stock as reported by NYSE American on December 31, 2017, the last day of trading in 2017.
|
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|
|
3)
|
The options will vest one third on each annual anniversary of the grant date in 2018, 2019 and 2020.
|
|
|
|
4)
|
Represents shares of restricted stock. The shares will vest 50% on the one year anniversary of the award date and 50% on the two year anniversary of the award date.
|
|
|
|
5)
|
All performance-based restricted stock awards are subject to attainment of performance targets established by the Compensation Committee. The grant pay-out is based on the Company's TSR relative to its peer group over the three-year performance period. All of the awards will vest no earlier than three years from the grant date. The awards included on the table relate to the performance-based restricted stock awards granted in February 2016 and February 2017.
|
Option Exercises and Stock Vested
The following table summarizes option exercises and the vesting of restricted stock for our Named Executive Officers in 2017.
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Option Awards
|
|
Stock Awards
|
Name
|
|
Number of
Securities
Acquired
on Exercise (#)
|
|
Value Realized
on Exercise ($)
|
|
Number of
Shares
Acquired on
Vesting (#)
|
|
Value Realized
on Vesting ($)
|
Sakiru Adefemi (Femi) Ayoade
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
9,759
|
|
|
37,084
|
|
Jean-Michel Malek
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
131,680
|
|
|
338,636
|
|
Dippo Bello
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
5,776
|
|
|
13,689
|
|
Dr. Kase Lukman Lawal
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
72,521
|
|
|
199,433
|
|
Babatunde (Segun) Omidele
|
|
87,088
|
|
|
287,767
|
|
|
134,735
|
|
|
515,583
|
|
Daniel Ogbonna
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
65,257
|
|
|
249,451
|
|
Heidi Wong
|
|
83,422
|
|
|
263,062
|
|
|
139,614
|
|
|
471,208
|
|
Pension Benefits
Other than our 401(k) plan, we do not have any plan that provides for payments or other benefits at, following or in connection with retirement.
In 2007, the Company adopted a defined contribution 401(k) plan for its U.S. employees. The plan provides for the Company matching up to 200% of the first 6% of salary contributed by employees. Company contributions are immediately vested to the employee. The Named Executive Officers participate in this plan on the same basis as other employees. There is no supplemental non-qualified plan for Named Executive Officers.
Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation
We do not have a plan that provides for the deferral of compensation on a basis that is not tax qualified.
Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control
For a description of the potential payments to our Named Executive Officers upon termination or a change in control, see “Employment Agreements and Post-Termination Benefits” above.
The following table sets forth the termination benefits due to our Named Executive Officers in the event of their termination. The amounts were computed as if each executive officer’s employment terminated on December 31, 2017.
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|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name
|
|
Termination due to
Death or Disability
($)
|
|
Termination for
other than Cause, Death or Disability ($)
|
|
Termination Due to
Change of Control ($)
|
|
Termination Due to Retirement ($)
|
Sakiru Adefemi (Femi) Ayoade
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Salary and Bonus (1)
|
|
—
|
|
|
330,000
|
|
|
330,000
|
|
|
—
|
|
Equity Awards (2)
|
|
231,719
|
|
|
100,162
|
|
|
231,719
|
|
|
105,053
|
|
Benefits (3)
|
|
100,000
|
|
|
22,992
|
|
|
22,992
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dippo Bello
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Salary and Bonus
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
Equity Awards (2)
|
|
19,965
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
19,965
|
|
Benefits (3)
|
|
100,000
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Heidi Wong
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Salary and Bonus (1)
|
|
—
|
|
|
250,000
|
|
|
250,000
|
|
|
—
|
|
Equity Awards (2)
|
|
426,039
|
|
|
342,275
|
|
|
323,912
|
|
|
426,039
|
|
Benefits (3)
|
|
100,000
|
|
|
22,992
|
|
|
22,992
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
|
1)
|
For termination for other than cause, death or disability and for termination due to change of control, represents 2017 base salary plus 2017 target bonus.
|
|
|
|
2)
|
Represents intrinsic value at December 31, 2017 for vested stock options and unvested restricted stock and unvested stock options that would become vested at the termination date under the terms of the underlying equity awards or the terms of the 2009 Equity Incentive Plan. The intrinsic value for restricted stock is equal to the number of shares valued at $2.75 per share, the closing price on December 31, 2017. For options, the intrinsic value is computed by individual award based on the excess, if any, of the December 31, 2017 closing price versus the option exercise price per share.
|
|
|
|
3)
|
For termination due to death or disability, represents benefits from insurance coverage. For termination for other than cause, death or disability or due to change of control, represents a maximum of 12 months’ estimated cost of COBRA continuation coverage under the Company’s medical plan for those employees participating in the medical plan as of December 31, 2017.
|
Director Compensation
Each non-employee director of the Company is compensated in accordance with the Company’s Board Compensation Plan adopted on April 22, 2009 by the Board and amended by the Board on February 29, 2012 and amended again on May 29, 2014 (the “Board Compensation Plan”). Pursuant to the Board Compensation Plan, each independent director of the Company in good standing is entitled to (i) cash payments totaling $45,000, payable in equal quarterly installments of $11,250 each in arrears, except that the Chairman is entitled to receive $170,000, effective May 26, 2016, payable in equal quarterly installments of $42,500, (ii) a grant of restricted common stock of the Company under the Company’s incentive stock plan with a fair market value of $112,000, except that the Chairman receives a grant of restricted common stock with a fair market value of $224,000, measured as of the date of grant as calculated under the Company’s incentive stock plan, 100% of which shares shall be subject to a Company repurchase option that lapses one year following the date of grant subject to the Board member’s continued service as a member of the Company’s Board during such time, (iii) meeting fees of $1,500 and $1,000 per Board meeting and committee meeting, respectively; and (iv) cash fees for serving as a Committee Chair of $15,000, $10,000 and $10,000 for service as Chair of the Audit, Compensation and Nominating and Corporate Governance Committees, respectively. The Chairman does not receive Board meeting or committee meeting fees or any cash fees for serving as a Committee Chair. In accordance with the Board Compensation Plan, on May 18, 2017 each of Messrs. Ingriselli and Stinson, Drs. Brown, Rudley and Ahmed and Ms. Hlatshwayo, as the Company’s independent directors, received a grant of shares of restricted common stock of the Company under the Company’s 2009 Plan, 100% of which shares will become vested and non-forfeitable on the twelve month anniversary of the grant date.
The following table sets forth for each non-employee director the compensation earned for duties as a director for the year ended December 31, 2017.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name
|
|
Fees Earned or Paid in
Cash ($)
|
|
Stock Awards
($)
(1)
|
|
Total ($)
|
Frank C. Ingreselli (2)
|
|
63,205
|
|
|
224,000
|
|
|
287,205
|
|
Dr. Lee Patrick Brown
|
|
89,750
|
|
|
112,000
|
|
|
201,750
|
|
Dr. John Rudley (2)(3)
|
|
36,731
|
|
|
112,000
|
|
|
148,731
|
|
Dudu Hlatshwayo (4)
|
|
57,000
|
|
|
112,000
|
|
|
169,000
|
|
William J. Campbell (5)
|
|
61,750
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
61,750
|
|
Ira Wayne McConnell (5)
|
|
61,750
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
61,750
|
|
J. Michael Stinson
|
|
65,976
|
|
|
112,000
|
|
|
177,976
|
|
John Hofmeister (5)
|
|
137,667
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
137,667
|
|
Mahmoud Yayale Ahmed (2)
|
|
20,731
|
|
|
112,000
|
|
|
132,731
|
|
|
|
|
1)
|
During 2017, non-employee members of the Board at May 18, 2017 were awarded restricted shares effective May 18, 2017. The grant date fair value per share, as determined in accordance with ASC Topic 718, was at the closing price for Company common stock as reported on the NYSE American at that date.
|
|
|
|
2)
|
Appointed effective May 17, 2017.
|
|
|
|
3)
|
Retired effective April 19, 2018
|
|
|
|
4)
|
Resigned effective April 30, 2018.
|
|
|
|
5)
|
Resigned effective May 17, 2017.
|
Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation
None of the members of the Compensation Committee during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017 were, are, or have ever been officers or employees of the Company. No member of the Compensation Committee had any relationship with us requiring disclosure under Item 404 of SEC Regulation S-K during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, except to the extent that the Company’s entry into stockholder-approved Indemnification Agreements with all of its current officers and directors is required to be disclosed under such Item.
None of our executive officers served as a member of:
|
|
•
|
the compensation committee of another entity in which one of the executive officers of such entity served on our Compensation Committee;
|
|
|
•
|
the board of directors of another entity, one of whose executive officers served on our Compensation Committee; or
|
|
|
•
|
the compensation committee of another entity in which one of the executive officers of such entity served as a member of our Board.
|
Say-on-pay Voting Outcome
As part of the process for determining compensation for the Named Executive Officers for 2017, the Compensation Committee considered the most recent “say on pay” non-binding stockholder advisory vote held in May 2017 regarding the Named Executive Officers’ 2016 compensation. The resolution approving 2016 executive compensation received approval of 87.3% of the total stockholder vote, including 99.7% of the total number of votes cast by stockholders on the proposal. Additionally, due to the fact that stockholders holding 57% of the total shares eligible to vote at the 2017 annual meeting, voted in favor of holding future advisory votes on executive compensation of our Named Executive Officers every “3 Years”, the Board of Directors determined that the Company will hold future non-binding, advisory votes of stockholders to approve the compensation of the Named Executive Officers every “3 years” until the next non-binding, advisory stockholder vote on the frequency of stockholder votes on executive compensation, currently scheduled to occur at our 2020 annual meeting of stockholders, or until the Board of Directors otherwise determines a different frequency for such non-binding, advisory votes.
ITEM 13.
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
Except as discussed below or otherwise disclosed under
“Item 11. Executive Compensation” - “Compensation Discussion And Analysis” -
“Employment Agreements and Post-Termination Benefits” and “Directors Compensation”, and
Note 9 - Related Party Transactions
to the consolidated audited financial statements included in the Original 10-K, there have been no transactions since the beginning of the Company’s last fiscal year, and there is not currently any proposed transaction, in which the Company was or is to be a participant, where the amount involved exceeds $120,000, and in which any officer, director, or any stockholder owning greater than five percent (5%) of our outstanding voting shares, nor any member of the above referenced individual’s immediate family, had or will have a direct or indirect material interest.
Employment Agreements with Executive Officers
For a description of the employment agreements and compensation arrangements of our Named Executive Officers, see “Employment Agreements and Post-Termination Benefits”
“Item 11. Executive Compensation” - “Compensation Discussion And Analysis” - “Employment Agreements and Post-Termination Benefits”,
above.
Changes of Control Which Occurred During 2017
First Change of Control
The Company was advised by Oltasho Nigeria Limited (“Oltasho”) and Latmol Investment Limited (“Latmol”) that on (a) April 3, 2017, an aggregate of 116,108,833 shares of the Company’s common stock previously held by Allied Energy PLC (“Allied”), were foreclosed upon by Oltasho, in connection with the failure of Allied to timely repay $50 million owed to Oltasho, pursuant to the terms of a loan agreement and certain stock pledges; and (b) April 13, 2017, an aggregate of 1,515,927 shares of the Company’s common stock previously held by CAMAC Int’l (Nigeria) Ltd. (“CINL”), were foreclosed upon by Latmol, in connection with the failure of CINL to timely repay $50 million owed by CINL to Latmol, pursuant to the terms of a loan agreement and a stock pledge.
Prior to April 2017, the shares of common stock previously held by Allied and CINL were beneficially owned by Dr. Kase Lukman Lawal, the Company’s former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, due to his ownership of such entities and voting and dispositive control over the securities held by such entities.
The shares foreclosed upon represented approximately 54.6% of the Company’s outstanding voting shares (53.9% owned by Allied and 0.7% owned by CINL) as of the dates of foreclosure (i.e., April 3, 2017 and April 13, 2017, respectively) and as such, the foreclosure of the shares by Oltasho and Latmol represented a change in control of the Company. The Company has been advised that the shares held by Oltasho are beneficially owned by Alhaji Murhi Busari, its Chairman, and the shares held by Latmol are beneficially owned by Alhaji Murhi Busari, its Chairman.
Second Change of Control
The Company has been advised that subsequent to the above, on July 5, 2017, Oltasho and Latmol entered into a Voting Agreement with Dr. Kase Lukman Lawal (the “Voting Agreement”) resulting in another change in control of the Company. Pursuant to the Voting Agreement, Oltasho and Latmol provided complete authority to Dr. Lawal to vote the 117,624,760 shares foreclosed upon (and any other securities of the Company obtained by Oltasho and/or Latmol in the future) at any and all meetings of stockholders of the Company and via any written consents. Those 117,624,760 shares represent 54.5% of the Company’s common stock as of the parties’ entry into the Voting Agreement. The Voting Agreement has a term of approximately 10 years, through July 31, 2027, but can be terminated at any time with the mutual consent of the parties. In connection with their entry into the Voting Agreement, Oltasho and Latmol each provided Dr. Lawal an irrevocable voting proxy to vote the shares covered by the Voting Agreement. Additionally, during the term of such agreement, Oltasho and Latmol agreed not to transfer the shares covered by the Voting Agreement except pursuant to certain limited exceptions. According to the Voting Agreement, Oltasho and Latmol have no desire to control the Company and believe that voting control of the Company was best determined by Dr. Lawal, a United States resident, who has extensive knowledge of United States laws and the assets and operations of the Company, as Dr. Lawal was, until he retired in 2015, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company. Due to the Voting Agreement, Dr. Lawal will continue to hold voting control over the Company even after the foreclosures described above.
Transactions with Affiliates of the Company
Dr. Kase Lukman Lawal, the Company’s former Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of the Board, who currently holds voting control over the Company (pursuant to the Voting Agreement described below), is a director of each of CAMAC Energy Holdings Limited (“CEHL”), CINL and Allied. Dr. Lawal also owns 27.7% of CAMAC International Limited (“CIL”), which indirectly owns 100% of CEHL. CINL and Allied are each wholly-owned subsidiaries of CEHL. As a result, CEHL, CINL, CIL and Allied are deemed to be related parties pursuant to Regulation S-K Item 404.
The following is a summary of transactions between the Company and each of CEHL, CINL and Allied.
2011 Promissory Note and Guaranty Agreement
On June 6, 2011, Erin Petroleum Nigeria Limited, the Company's wholly owned subsidiary, executed a promissory note in favor of Allied (the “2011 Promissory Note”). Interest accrues on the outstanding principal under the 2011 Promissory Note at a rate of the 30-day London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus 2% per annum, payable quarterly. The obligations under the 2011 Promissory Note have been guaranteed by the Company. In March 2017, the maturity date of the 2011 Promissory Note was extended to April 2018. As consideration for the extension, the 2011 Promissory Note became convertible, at the sole option of the holder, into shares of the Company’s common stock at a conversion price of $3.415 per share. In July 2017, the 2011 Promissory Note was amended to extend the maturity date to December 2019. The entire $25.0 million facility amount can be utilized for general corporate purposes. The stock of the Company’s subsidiary that holds the exploration licenses in The Gambia and Kenya were pledged as collateral to secure the 2011 Promissory Note, pursuant to an Equitable Share Mortgage arrangement. As of December 31, 2017, the outstanding principal and accrued interest under the 2011 Promissory Note were $24.9 million and $2.5 million, respectively.
This Note was transferred to Oltasho during 2017.
2014 Convertible Subordinated Promissory Note
Pursuant to the Transfer Agreement on February 21, 2014, and as partial consideration in connection with the February 2014 acquisition of interests in Oil Mining Leases (“OMLs”) located offshore Nigeria from Allied, the Company issued and delivered to Allied a $50.0 million Convertible Subordinated Note (the “2014 Convertible Subordinated Note”) .The first of two $25.0 million advancements of the principal of the 2014 Convertible Subordinated Note was deemed to have been made on February 21, 2014 in connection with the First Closing (as defined below). The second $25.0 million advancement was deemed to have been made on May 8, 2014 in connection with the Second Closing (as defined below). Interest on the 2014 Convertible Subordinated Note accrues at a rate per annum equal to LIBOR plus 5%, payable quarterly in cash until the maturity of the 2014 Convertible Subordinated Note on January 15, 2019.
The 2014 Convertible Subordinated Note is, at the election of the holder, convertible into shares of common stock at an initial conversion price of $4.2984 per share, and is subject to customary anti-dilution adjustments. The 2014 Convertible Subordinated Note is subordinate to the Company’s existing and future senior indebtedness and is subject to acceleration upon an Event of Default (as defined in the 2014 Convertible Subordinated Note). The Company may, at its option, prepay the 2014 Convertible Subordinated Note, in whole or in part, at any time, without premium or penalty. The 2014 Convertible Subordinated Note is subject to mandatory prepayment upon (a) the Company’s issuance of capital stock or incurrence of indebtedness, the proceeds of which the Company does not apply to the repayment of senior indebtedness or (b) any capital markets debt issuance to the extent that the net proceeds of such issuance exceed $250.0 million. The holder had the right to assign all or any part of its rights and obligations under the 2014 Convertible Subordinated Note to any person upon written notice to the Company.
The 2014 Convertible Subordinated Note is subordinated to the Company’s existing and future senior indebtedness and is subject to acceleration upon an Event of Default (as defined in the 2014 Convertible Subordinated Note). The following events, among others, constitute an Event of Default under the 2014 Convertible Subordinated Note: the Company failing to pay interest within thirty days of the due date; the Company failing to pay principal when due; bankruptcy, insolvency, liquidation or dissolution of the Company; a material breach of the 2014 Convertible Subordinated Note by the Company that remains unremedied within ten days of such material breach; or a representation or warranty of the Company proves to have been incorrect or materially inaccurate when made. Upon any event of default, all outstanding principal and interest under any loans will become immediately due and payable. As of December 31, 2017, outstanding principal and interest was $50.0 million and $11.4 million, respectively.
In March 2017, Allied agreed to waive its rights under all default provisions of the 2014 Convertible Subordinated Note through April 2018. In July 2017, the 2014 Convertible Subordinated Note was amended to extend the maturity date to December 2019.
This Note was transferred to Oltasho during 2017.
On February 26, 2018, the Company entered into a Convertible Subordinated Note Amendment and Debt Conversion Agreement, dated as of the same date (the “Debt Conversion”) with Oltasho.
Pursuant to the Debt Conversion, the Company and Oltasho agreed: (a) to reduce the conversion price of the 2014 Convertible Subordinated Note to $2.75 per share, the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the NYSE American on December 29, 2017; and (b) that Oltasho would immediately convert the 2014 Convertible Subordinated Note into shares of common stock of the Company at the reduced conversion price.
In connection with, and pursuant to, the Debt Conversion, which was effective December 31, 2017, Oltasho converted the amount then owed under the 2014 Convertible Subordinated Note ($61,400,148, when including principal and accrued entered) into 22,327,327 shares of the Company’s common stock (the “Conversion Shares”) and the 2014 Convertible Subordinated Note was deemed satisfied and paid in full.
2015 Convertible Note
On March 11, 2015, the Company entered into a new borrowing facility with Allied for a Convertible Note (the “2015 Convertible Note”) allowing the Company to borrow up to $50.0 million for general corporate purposes. The 2015 Convertible Note is separate from the existing $25.0 million Promissory Note and the $50.0 million Convertible Subordinated Note.
The 2015 Convertible Note is convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock upon the occurrence and continuation of an event of default, at the sole option of the holder. The number of shares issuable upon conversion is equal to the sum of the principal amount and the accrued and unpaid interest divided by the conversion price, defined as the volume weighted average of the closing sales prices on the NYSE American for a share of common stock for the five complete trading days immediately preceding the conversion date.
In July 2017, the maturity date of the 2015 Convertible Note was extended to December 2019. Interest accrues at the rate of LIBOR plus 5% and is payable quarterly. Upon execution of the 2015 Convertible Note, the Company drew $20.0 million under it and issued to Allied warrants to purchase approximately 1.6 million shares of the Company’s common stock at a $2.46 strike price. As of December 31, 2017, the Company had borrowed $48.5 million under the note and issued to Allied warrants to purchase approximately 2.7 million shares of the Company’s common stock at prices ranging from $2.00 to $7.85 per share.
In March 2017, Allied agreed to waive its rights under all default provisions of the 2015 Convertible Note through April 2018.
As of December 31, 2017, the outstanding balance of the 2015 Convertible Note and accrued interest was $48.5 million and $8.2 million, respectively.
This Note was transferred to Oltasho during 2017.
2016 Promissory Note
In March 2016, the Company borrowed $3.0 million under a 30-day Promissory Note agreement entered into with James Street Capital Partners ("JCP"), an entity related to CIL (the “March 2016 Short-Term Note”). The March 2016 Short-Term Note accrued interest at a rate of the 30-day LIBOR plus 7% per annum.
In April 2016, the Company borrowed $1.0 million under a 30-day Promissory Note agreement with JCP (the “April 2016 Short-Term Note”). The April 2016 Short-Term Note accrued interest at a rate of the 30-day LIBOR plus 7% per annum, and will be due in May 2016.
In May 2016, JCP agreed to combine both notes into a $10.0 million borrowing facility (the “2016 Promissory Note”). Interest accrues at a rate of the 30-day LIBOR plus 7% per annum. . In March 2017, the maturity date of the 2016 Promissory Note was extended to April 2018. As consideration for the extension, the 2016 Promissory Note became convertible, at the sole option of the holder, into shares of the Company’s common stock at a conversion price of $3.415 per share. In July 2017, the maturity date of the 2016 Promissory Note was extended to April 2023.
2018 Promissory Note
On February 22, 2018, CAMAC International Corp. (“CAMAC”), which is owned 27% by Dr. Kase Lawal, its Chairman, the Company’s former Chairman and former Chief Executive Officer, who also holds voting control over the Company pursuant to the Voting Agreement, loaned $600,000 to the Company. The loan was evidenced by a Promissory Note ("the 2018 Promissory Note"). Pursuant to the note, the amount loaned accrues interest at the rate of 5% plus the LIBOR Rate in effect from time to time, per annum, until paid in full. We are required to repay the amount due under the note upon the earlier of (1) the receipt of funds pursuant to a debt financing agreement or any process from crude oil trading or offtake activities, or (2) September 30, 2018, provided we can repay the note at any time without penalty. The Company agreed to pledge a portion of the proceeds from our next crude oil lifting from the Oyo field (in an amount equal to the balance of the note) to secure the repayment of the note.
Transactions with the Public Investment Corporation (SOC) Limited
Share Purchase Agreement
On November 18, 2013, the Company entered into a Share Purchase Agreement (the “Share Purchase Agreement”) with PIC for a $270.0 million equity investment to fund the cash portion of the Allied Acquisition and a portion of anticipated capital expenditures thereafter. Pursuant to the Share Purchase Agreement, the Company agreed to sell to PIC, in exchange for its $270.0 million equity investment, an aggregate of 62,814,070 shares of common stock through a private placement (the “Private Placement”). The Share Purchase Agreement requires the Private Placement to be completed in two equal installments. The first installment (the “First Closing”) occurred on February 21, 2014 in connection with the closing of the Allied Acquisition and involved payment of $135.0 million by PIC in exchange for the issuance of 31,407,035 shares of common stock to PIC by the Company. The second installment (the “Second Closing”) occurred on May 6, 2014 and involved payment by PIC of an additional $135.0 million to the Company in exchange for the issuance of 31,407,035 shares of common stock to PIC by the Company.
In connection with the investment by PIC, the Company agreed to (i) list its common stock on the JSE, (ii) enter into a registration rights agreement requiring the Company to file a registration statement covering PIC’s shares of common stock with the SEC within 60 days following the Second Closing and (iii) grant PIC the right to designate one director to the Company’s Board for so long as PIC holds at least 20% of the Company’s issued and outstanding shares of common stock. Following the completion of the Second Closing, and as of April 2, 2018, PIC owns
62,854,636
shares of common stock of the Company which represents
29.03%
of all outstanding shares of the Company’s common stock. Following Dr. Matjila’s resignation from the Board in December 2015, PIC designated Dudu Hlatshwayo for election to the Board at the Meeting.
MCB Finance Facility and Related Agreements
On February 6, 2017, the Company and its subsidiary, EPNL, entered into a Pre-export Finance Facility Agreement (the “MCB Finance Facility”) with The Mauritius Commercial Bank Limited, as mandated lead arranger, agent, security agent, original lender and issuing bank (“MCB”). The MCB Finance Facility provides for a total commitment of $100.0 million and is supported by a guarantee from The Standard Bank of South Africa Limited (“SBSA”), as named guarantor, which guarantee is facilitated by PIC. The PIC guarantee is made with recourse to the Company pursuant to the Company’s entry into the Financing Support Agreement with PIC (the "Financing Support Agreement").
In connection with the MCB Finance Facility, and as a condition precedent to the initial drawdown thereunder, EPNL entered into the Off-take Contract with Glencore dated January 18, 2017 for EPNL’s entire volumes of oil produced from the OMLs located offshore Nigeria. Pursuant to the MCB Finance Facility, EPNL is required to comply with the terms of the Off-take Contract, ensure payments and deliveries of oil and notify MCB of any failures under such contract and ensure that it receives a fair market price for delivered oil.
The MCB Finance Facility is supported by the SBSA guarantee as facilitated by PIC, the assignment of the Off-take Contract and the assignment by way of security of certain accounts, including a debt service reserve account, as set forth in the MCB Finance Facility. EPNL was required to deposit $10.0 million (at the closing of the MCB Finance Facility into the debt service reserve account with MCB and maintain that balance for so long as borrowings are outstanding under the MCB Finance Facility. The aforementioned guarantee and security agreements were entered into by the parties thereto before the initial drawdown on the MCB Finance Facility.
EPNL could make drawdowns under the MCB Finance Facility by way of loans and/or letters of credit until June 30, 2017 after which the remaining balance of MCB's commitment as of that date could be drawn and deposited into a capital expenditure reserve account for payment of invoices expected to be payable within six months after June 30, 2017. Borrowings under the MCB Finance
Facility bear interest at the three-month LIBOR plus 6%. Additionally, the Company is required to pay an unused commitment fee of 2% per annum. After a grace period that ended on June 30, 2017, the MCB Finance Facility will be repaid over a period starting from June 30, 2017 and ending on December 31, 2019.
The MCB Finance Facility includes customary fees, including a commitment fee, structuring fee, underwriting fee, management fee, fees payable in respect of utilization of the MCB Finance Facility by way of letter of credit and other fees, and subjects EPNL to certain covenants under the terms of the MCB Finance Facility, and is subject to customary events of default.
The Company did not draw down the remaining Available Facility on June 30, 2017 as expected and is currently in discussions with MCB to amend the agreement. The Company is seeking to extend the availability period, including the grace period, as well as a revised repayment schedule.
The Company did not make the principal payment due and a portion of interest due on December 31, 2017. Also, on June 27, 2017, a vendor filed a suit against a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company seeking an amount in excess of $10.0 million. These constitute events of default under the MCB Finance Facility.
The Company made its initial drawdown under the MCB Finance Facility in March 2017 (the "March 2017 drawdown"). As part of the March 2017 drawdown, the Company incurred debt issuance costs amounting to $8.7 million. As of December 31, 2017, $7.3 million of the debt issuance costs remained unamortized, which is shown as a discount to long-term debt on the consolidated balance sheet. As of December 31, 2017, the amount drawn under the MCB Finance Facility was $65.6 million. Accrued interest and unused commitment fees under the MCB Finance Facility was approximately $1.0 million as of December 31, 2017.
During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company paid $0.1 million towards the principal repayment of the MCB Finance Facility.
Under the MCB Finance Facility, the Company is required to maintain specified financial ratios. Maintenance of these financial ratios (the "cover ratios"), including a debt service cover ratio and a life cover ratio, commenced during the quarter after the initial drawdown. As of December 31, 2017, the Company is not in compliance with the cover ratios.
Also on February 6, 2017, the Company and PIC also entered into the Financing Support Agreement. Pursuant to the Financing Support Agreement, PIC agreed to apply for, request and authorize SBSA, or any other reputable commercial bank acceptable to MCB, to issue a bank guarantee in favor of MCB in the amount of $100.0 million. The issuance of a guarantee in favor of MCB by SBSA or another reputable commercial bank was a condition precedent to the closing of the MCB Finance Facility.
In consideration for this undertaking, the Company agreed to pay PIC an upfront fee equal to 250 basis points on the guarantee amount and issue to PIC warrants to purchase a number of shares of the Company’s common stock in an amount equal to the guarantee amount multiplied by 20%, divided by the closing market price of the Company’s common stock on the day that EPNL received the funds available under the MCB Finance Facility (the "warrants issuance date), with an exercise price equal to such closing market price. The Company recognized a derivative liability for the warrants that are expected to be issued for the portion of the amount drawn under the MCB Finance Facility at December 31, 2017. The Company also has agreed to indemnify PIC from and against certain claims and losses. The amount of any and all indemnifiable losses suffered by PIC agreed or otherwise required to be paid by the Company will be paid in cash or, at the option of PIC, may be paid in newly issued shares of the Company’s common stock. In March 2017, the Company paid $2.5 million to PIC in fees under the Financing Support Agreement which is recorded as debt issuance costs as discussed above and is being amortized to interest expense over the life of the MCB Financing Facility.
On February 8, 2017, and in connection with the MCB Finance Facility, the Company, EPNL, MCB and Zenith Bank PLC ("Zenith"), the Company’s existing secured lender, also entered into an Override Deed (the “Override Deed”). The Override Deed establishes, inter alia, pro-rata rights of MCB and Zenith in respect of the proceeds from the Off-take Contract, governs the mechanics of any enforcement action by the creditors and sets out pro-rata sharing of enforcement proceeds between MCB and Zenith. The Override Deed also grants the necessary consents to EPNL’s entry into the MCB Finance Facility and related documents.
On January 26, 2018, the Company and its subsidiary, EPNL, filed a complaint against PIC, with the Supreme Court of New York, County of New York, Commercial Division. The complaint alleges that PIC is wrongfully attempting to control the approval and payment of funds from MCB under the MCB Finance Facility, which resulted in the suspension of completion of the Oyo-9 well.
Approval of Related Party Transactions
The Company has adopted the Code applicable to the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and all other employees, the text of which has been posted on the Company’s website (www.erinenergy.com). Among other provisions, the Code provides that all officers, directors and employees shall avoid all conflicts of interest or improper or unlawful conduct and even the appearance thereof, and, further, that only the Board of the Company may waive a conflict of interest or any other non-compliance with the Code. In addition, the Company has adopted a formal written policy that covers the review and approval of related party transactions by the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee of the Board.
Each of the above-referenced related party transactions were approved by a disinterested majority of the Company’s Board, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee or a special committee of disinterested directors, as applicable.
Independent Directors
For disclosure related to our independent directors, see
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance-Corporate Governance-Independent Directors
.