8-KLeadership ChangesExhibits & Filings

Mastercard Inc 8-K Report, Executive Changes (Jun 19, 2009)

Filed June 19, 2009For Securities:MA

Summary

Mastercard Incorporated (MA) filed an 8-K on June 19, 2009, to report on the future employment of Ajaypal Banga as President and Chief Operating Officer of its principal operating subsidiary, MasterCard International Incorporated. The filing details the terms of Mr. Banga's employment agreement, including his commencement date (no later than October 1, 2009), initial term through December 31, 2011, and automatic one-year renewals thereafter. His compensation package includes a base salary of $800,000, eligibility for annual and long-term incentive plans, and participation in standard employee benefit programs. Key elements of the agreement also outline termination provisions and associated payments, including provisions for 'Cause,' 'Good Reason,' disability, death, and voluntary resignation. A significant component of the compensation package includes a substantial sign-on award of $4,200,000 and long-term equity awards totaling $7,300,000 in restricted stock units and stock options, with specific vesting schedules and conditions, particularly concerning potential promotion to CEO. This filing provides transparency on executive appointments and compensation structure during a critical period for the company.

Key Highlights

  • 1Appointment of Ajaypal Banga as President and Chief Operating Officer of MasterCard International Incorporated, effective no later than October 1, 2009.
  • 2Initial employment term set through December 31, 2011, with automatic one-year renewals.
  • 3Base salary for Mr. Banga set at $800,000 annually, subject to performance-based increases.
  • 4Mr. Banga to receive a sign-on award of $4,200,000 and substantial long-term equity grants (restricted stock units and stock options) valued at $7,300,000.
  • 5Detailed provisions regarding termination of employment, including compensation and benefits for various scenarios such as termination for 'Cause' or 'Good Reason'.
  • 6Specific conditions and benefits outlined for termination related to a potential promotion to CEO, highlighting the company's strategic interest in Mr. Banga's long-term leadership.
  • 7Mr. Banga's extensive background at Citigroup and other financial institutions is highlighted, indicating a seasoned executive joining the company.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary purpose of this 8-K filing is to announce and detail the terms of employment for Ajaypal Banga, who is set to become the President and Chief Operating Officer of MasterCard International Incorporated, a key subsidiary of Mastercard Incorporated.

Mr. Banga's compensation includes an $800,000 base salary, eligibility for annual and long-term incentive plans, a $4.2 million sign-on award, and significant long-term equity awards totaling $7.3 million (restricted stock units and stock options) with specific vesting schedules. He also receives a $35,000 perquisite allowance for 2009 and 2010.

The full sign-on award and equity grants are generally contingent on continued service. However, Mr. Banga is entitled to the entire sign-on award and accelerated vesting of equity if his employment is terminated with 'Good Reason' due to the company failing to offer him a promotion to CEO by June 30, 2010. Conversely, repayment of portions of the sign-on award is required under certain conditions of termination for 'Cause' or voluntary resignation.

If terminated without 'Cause' or if Mr. Banga resigns for 'Good Reason' (which includes significant adverse changes to his role, salary, relocation, or failure to be offered a CEO promotion), he is entitled to 24 months of base salary continuation and an amount equal to his average annual incentive bonus from the prior two years, along with continued medical coverage, outplacement services, and other benefits, subject to signing a release agreement. Specific provisions apply regarding the 2009 and 2010 bonuses.