Summary
This Form 8-K filing by The Boeing Company (BA) announces the formal appointment of W. James McNerney, Jr. as Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer, effective July 1, 2005. The report details the comprehensive executive employment agreement entered into between Boeing and Mr. McNerney, outlining his compensation, benefits, and terms of employment. This marks a significant leadership transition for the company, with Mr. McNerney bringing extensive experience from his previous roles at 3M Company and General Electric, including GE Aircraft Engines. The filing also addresses changes to the Board of Directors' compensation structure for non-employee directors, specifically eliminating additional compensation for the Non-Executive Chairman and establishing an annual cash retainer for the Lead Director. James A. Bell will continue as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, while Lewis E. Platt transitions from Non-Executive Chairman to Lead Director. Investors should note the detailed provisions regarding Mr. McNerney's base salary, bonus potential, substantial equity awards designed to compensate for forfeited awards from his previous employer, long-term incentives, and a significant supplemental retirement benefit, alongside standard executive perquisites and severance provisions.
Key Highlights
- 1W. James McNerney, Jr. appointed Chairman, President, and CEO, effective July 1, 2005.
- 2Formalized executive employment agreement between Boeing and Mr. McNerney outlines compensation and terms.
- 3James A. Bell remains EVP and CFO; Lewis E. Platt becomes Lead Director.
- 4Mr. McNerney's compensation includes a base salary of $1,750,000 and a target annual bonus of at least 170% of base salary.
- 5Significant "One-Time Buy-Out Equity Awards" granted to Mr. McNerney totaling $25,289,880 in restricted stock to replace forfeited 3M equity.
- 6Supplemental retirement benefit includes a lump sum payment upon termination or Change in Control, valued at approximately $22 million (as of Dec 31, 2005 estimate).
- 7Changes to non-employee director compensation: elimination of Non-Executive Chairman pay and new $60,000 retainer for Lead Director.