8-KLeadership ChangesExhibits & Filings

ONEOK INC /NEW/ 8-K Report, Executive Changes (Jan 24, 2005)

Filed January 24, 2005For Securities:OKE

Summary

ONEOK, Inc. (OKE) announced significant management changes across several of its key divisions, effective February 1, 2005. These changes involve leadership realignments within ONEOK Energy Companies and ONEOK Distribution Companies, as well as within specific business units like transportation and storage, and gathering and processing. The objective appears to be a restructuring of responsibilities to enhance operational focus and leadership within these segments. Notably, the report details the appointment of new presidents and vice presidents for various operating entities, including Oklahoma Natural Gas, Kansas Gas Service, and Northern Plains Natural Gas Company. While no new employment agreements were entered into, the company highlighted that all affected officers have termination agreements in place. These agreements provide severance payments and benefits in the event of termination under specific circumstances related to a change in control, offering a degree of executive protection and continuity planning.

Key Highlights

  • 1ONEOK, Inc. announced a series of management changes effective February 1, 2005.
  • 2John Gibson appointed President of ONEOK Energy Companies, overseeing transportation/storage, gathering/processing, and energy services.
  • 3Sam Combs appointed President of ONEOK Distribution Companies, responsible for Oklahoma Natural Gas, Kansas Gas Service, and Texas Gas Service.
  • 4Several new Vice President and General Manager roles were created or filled within energy and distribution segments.
  • 5All affected officers have entered into Termination Agreements providing severance and benefits in case of termination following a change in control.
  • 6These changes are designed to streamline leadership and operational focus within key business units.

Frequently Asked Questions

ONEOK has announced significant leadership realignments across its energy and distribution businesses. Key appointments include John Gibson as President of ONEOK Energy Companies and Sam Combs as President of ONEOK Distribution Companies. Numerous other executive and managerial positions within various segments have also been updated.

The filing states that ONEOK is not a party to any new employment agreements with these officers. However, all affected officers have entered into Termination Agreements.

The Termination Agreements provide for severance payments and benefits if an officer's employment is terminated by the company without "just cause" or by the officer for "good reason" within three years of a change in control. This includes lump-sum payments, prorated incentive compensation, accelerated vesting of retirement benefits, and continuation of welfare benefits.

While not explicitly stated as to impact, the restructuring suggests a strategic move by ONEOK to enhance focus and leadership within its core energy and distribution segments. Investors may anticipate improved operational efficiency or strategic execution as a result of these redefined roles and responsibilities.