8-KLeadership ChangesExhibits & Filings

AMGEN INC 8-K Report, Executive Changes (Oct 14, 2016)

Filed October 14, 2016For Securities:AMGN

Summary

Amgen Inc. (AMGN) filed an 8-K on October 14, 2016, to report a significant addition to its Board of Directors. The company appointed Ellen J. Kullman, former President, Chair, and CEO of E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company (DuPont), as a new director. This appointment is effective immediately and expands the Board to 14 directors, with 13 now considered independent, reinforcing strong corporate governance practices. Ms. Kullman brings extensive experience from her leadership roles at DuPont and her service on other prominent public and private company boards, including United Technologies Corporation and General Motors. Her appointment is expected to add valuable strategic insights and diverse perspectives to Amgen's governance. The filing also details Ms. Kullman's compensation, which includes a pro-rated annual retainer, meeting fees, and a pro-rated grant of restricted stock units, aligning her interests with those of the company and its shareholders.

Key Highlights

  • 1Appointment of Ellen J. Kullman to the Board of Directors.
  • 2Ms. Kullman is the former President, Chair, and CEO of E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company.
  • 3The Board of Directors will comprise 14 members following the appointment, with 13 designated as independent.
  • 4Ms. Kullman will serve on the Audit Committee and the Governance and Nominating Committee.
  • 5Her compensation includes a pro-rated annual retainer of $100,000 and meeting fees.
  • 6She will receive a pro-rated annual grant of restricted stock units valued at $200,000 (grant date fair value).
  • 7No related-party transactions or arrangements were disclosed concerning Ms. Kullman's appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ellen J. Kullman is a highly experienced executive, most notably serving as the former President, Chair, and Chief Executive Officer of E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company (DuPont) from 2009 to 2015. She has a strong background in science and technology-based industries and has held various leadership positions within DuPont since 1995. She also has experience serving on the boards of other major corporations, including United Technologies Corporation and General Motors.

Ms. Kullman's appointment is significant as it brings a seasoned leader with extensive experience in executive leadership, corporate strategy, and governance to Amgen's Board. Her addition increases the total number of directors to 14 and enhances the board's independence, with 13 of the 14 directors now being independent. Her expertise is expected to provide valuable strategic guidance and oversight for Amgen.

Ms. Kullman will receive a pro-rated portion of the annual director retainer of $100,000 through December 31, 2016. She will also be compensated $2,000 for in-person committee meeting attendance and $1,000 for telephonic attendance. Furthermore, in line with Amgen's policy, she will receive a pro-rated annual grant of restricted stock units, with a grant date fair value of $200,000, which vest immediately.

The filing explicitly states that there are no transactions between Ms. Kullman (or her immediate family) and Amgen, nor are there any arrangements or understandings with other parties concerning her appointment. This indicates a clean appointment with no disclosed conflicts of interest.