8-KLeadership ChangesExhibits & Filings

Cheniere Energy, Inc. 8-K Report, Executive Changes (Dec 20, 2006)

Filed December 20, 2006For Securities:LNG

Summary

Cheniere Energy, Inc. (LNG) filed an 8-K on December 20, 2006, to report a significant change in its board of directors. The company announced the election of Mr. John M. Deutch as a new director, effective December 15, 2006. Mr. Deutch's appointment is noteworthy as he will also serve on key board committees, including the Audit Committee and the Compensation Committee, and its Section 162(m) Subcommittee. This filing also details the initial compensation package for Mr. Deutch as a non-employee director. This includes stock options and restricted stock awards, indicating the company's strategy to align director compensation with shareholder interests and attract experienced leadership. Investors should monitor any further announcements related to Mr. Deutch's contributions and the strategic direction of the board under its expanded membership.

Key Highlights

  • 1Cheniere Energy, Inc. appointed Mr. John M. Deutch as a new director on December 15, 2006.
  • 2Mr. Deutch will serve on the Board's Audit Committee and Compensation Committee.
  • 3He will also be a member of the Section 162(m) Subcommittee of the Compensation Committee.
  • 4Mr. Deutch received 25,000 fully vested stock options with a 10-year term.
  • 5The exercise price for the stock options was set at $28.22, the closing price on the grant date.
  • 6Mr. Deutch will receive $50,000 in compensation for his service through May 2007, paid in restricted stock.
  • 7The restricted stock award is for 2,362 shares, discounted by 25% from the closing price on the grant date, with staged vesting over three years.

Frequently Asked Questions

John M. Deutch is a newly elected director to Cheniere Energy's Board. His appointment is significant as he brings experience and will serve on crucial committees like the Audit and Compensation Committees, suggesting a focus on governance and strategic oversight.

Mr. Deutch's compensation includes an immediate grant of 25,000 stock options exercisable at $28.22, with a 10-year term. Additionally, he will receive $50,000 in restricted stock (2,362 shares) for his service through May 2007, which vests over three years.

The restricted stock award is comprised of 2,362 shares, granted at a price discounted by 25% from the market closing price on December 15, 2006. These shares vest incrementally, with one-third becoming fully vested on each anniversary of the grant date, starting one year after the grant.

The Section 162(m) Subcommittee typically deals with executive compensation plans that are intended to qualify for deductibility under Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code. Mr. Deutch's role here suggests a focus on ensuring executive compensation is structured to meet tax regulations and performance-based criteria.