8-KLeadership ChangesExhibits & Filings

Fortinet, Inc. 8-K Report, Executive Changes (Apr 19, 2013)

Filed April 19, 2013For Securities:FTNT

Summary

This Form 8-K filing by Fortinet, Inc. (FTNT) on April 19, 2013, announces significant changes in its executive and board leadership. The most impactful news for investors is the appointment of Ahmed Rubaie as the new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Chief Operating Officer (COO). Mr. Rubaie brings a wealth of experience from previous roles, including CFO of Ariba, Inc. prior to its acquisition by SAP, and senior finance positions at Avery Dennison. His compensation package includes a base salary of $400,000, a target annual bonus of 75% of base salary, a $150,000 sign-on bonus with a two-year clawback provision, and 125,000 restricted stock units (RSUs) vesting over four years. Additionally, the company appointed Ming Hsieh to its Board of Directors, specifically to the Audit Committee. Mr. Hsieh will receive 20,000 RSUs vesting over four years. The filing also details Mr. Rubaie's Change of Control Severance Agreement, outlining benefits in the event of termination without Cause or resignation for Good Reason, particularly around a change of control scenario, which aims to provide stability and incentivize continued service.

Key Highlights

  • 1Appointment of Ahmed Rubaie as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Chief Operating Officer (COO) effective April 16, 2013.
  • 2Ahmed Rubaie has prior experience as CFO of Ariba, Inc. and held senior finance roles at Avery Dennison.
  • 3Rubaie's compensation includes a $400,000 base salary, a 75% target annual bonus, and a $150,000 sign-on bonus.
  • 4Rubaie receives 125,000 RSUs vesting over four years, with initial vesting on May 1, 2013.
  • 5A Change of Control Severance Agreement is in place for Rubaie, providing benefits upon specific termination events.
  • 6Appointment of Ming Hsieh to the Board of Directors, effective April 16, 2013, and as a member of the Audit Committee.
  • 7Ming Hsieh will receive 20,000 RSUs vesting over four years as part of his director compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ahmed Rubaie's appointment as CFO and COO is significant as it brings in experienced leadership to key financial and operational roles. His background, particularly as CFO of Ariba before its acquisition by SAP, suggests a track record in managing financial operations and potentially contributing to strategic growth, which is crucial for investors to observe.

Mr. Rubaie's compensation includes an annual base salary of $400,000, eligibility for an annual bonus with a target of 75% of his base salary, a $150,000 sign-on bonus (subject to a two-year pro-rated repayment if he leaves voluntarily), and 125,000 restricted stock units (RSUs) that vest over four years. This package aims to attract and retain executive talent.

Fortinet has entered into a Change of Control Severance Agreement with Mr. Rubaie. This agreement outlines specific severance benefits, including salary continuation, benefits continuation, and accelerated vesting of equity awards, if his employment is terminated without Cause or if he resigns for Good Reason, both with and without a change of control event. This is designed to provide security and alignment during potential transition periods.

Ming Hsieh has been appointed as a director to the Board and will serve on the Audit Committee. As compensation for his services, he is granted 20,000 RSUs that will vest over a four-year period, in line with the company's standard non-employee director compensation policy.