8-KLeadership ChangesRegulation FDExhibits & Filings

SYNOPSYS INC 8-K Report, Executive Changes (Aug 7, 2023)

Filed August 7, 2023For Securities:SNPS

Summary

Synopsys Inc. (SNPS) announced a significant update to its Board of Directors through an 8-K filing on August 7, 2023. The company expanded its Board size from nine to ten directors and appointed Robert Painter as a new independent director, effective August 4, 2023. Mr. Painter brings substantial executive experience, having served as President and CEO of Trimble Inc. since January 2020, and previously held CFO and other leadership roles at Trimble. His appointment is expected to enhance the Board's strategic oversight and governance capabilities. Mr. Painter's compensation as a director includes an annual cash retainer of $125,000 and equity awards totaling $525,000 in grant date fair market value. This includes an initial restricted stock award of $350,000 vesting over three years and an interim award of $175,000 vesting in one year. Synopsys is also entering into its standard indemnification agreement with Mr. Painter to protect him against potential liabilities related to his directorship. The company also furnished a press release detailing this appointment as an exhibit.

Key Highlights

  • 1Synopsys Inc. expanded its Board of Directors from nine to ten members.
  • 2Robert Painter was appointed as a new independent director, effective August 4, 2023.
  • 3Mr. Painter brings extensive executive leadership experience, including his current role as President and CEO of Trimble Inc.
  • 4The appointment is intended to strengthen the Board's independence and governance.
  • 5Mr. Painter will receive an annual cash retainer of $125,000.
  • 6He was granted equity awards with a total grant date fair market value of $525,000, subject to vesting schedules.
  • 7Synopsys is entering into a standard indemnification agreement with Mr. Painter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Robert Painter is a new independent director appointed to Synopsys' Board. He has a strong background in corporate leadership, currently serving as President and Chief Executive Officer of Trimble Inc. since January 2020. Prior to that, he held positions such as Chief Financial Officer at Trimble and various leadership roles at other companies including Bain & Company.

The direct financial impact involves the compensation provided to Mr. Painter for his directorial services, which includes an annual cash retainer of $125,000 and equity awards totaling $525,000 in grant date fair market value. These equity awards have specific vesting schedules tied to continued Board service.

The filing indicates that the Board size was increased from nine to ten directors to accommodate the appointment of Robert Painter. This expansion, along with the appointment of an independent director with significant CEO experience, suggests a strategic decision by Synopsys to enhance its Board's expertise and oversight capabilities.

The filing explicitly states that there are no arrangements or understandings with other persons concerning his appointment, no family relationships with Synopsys' directors or officers, and no material direct or indirect interest in any transaction requiring reporting. This suggests that Synopsys has vetted potential conflicts and found none.