8-KLeadership Changes

WESTERN DIGITAL CORP 8-K Report, Executive Changes (Jun 21, 2019)

Filed June 21, 2019For Securities:WDC

Summary

This Form 8-K filing by Western Digital Corporation (WDC) primarily details the separation of its former Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Mark Long. Mr. Long, who had previously transitioned from his CFO role to pursue private equity opportunities, officially stepped down from all leadership roles on June 15, 2019. The filing outlines the terms of his separation agreement, including customary non-solicitation and cooperation clauses, and a general release of claims against the company. For investors, the key takeaway is the financial and equity-based compensation Mr. Long will receive upon his departure. This includes a significant severance package consisting of a lump sum cash payment, a pro-rata bonus, accelerated vesting of certain stock options and restricted stock units, and continued COBRA premium coverage. These details are important for understanding the company's executive compensation policies and any potential impact on its financial statements.

Key Highlights

  • 1Formalization of Mark Long's separation from Western Digital as of June 15, 2019.
  • 2Mr. Long's separation agreement includes non-solicitation and cooperation provisions.
  • 3Mr. Long will receive a lump sum severance payment of $1,350,000.
  • 4A pro-rata target bonus for fiscal year 2019, estimated at $711,563, will be paid.
  • 5Certain outstanding unvested stock options and restricted stock units will experience accelerated vesting.
  • 6The company will cover Mr. Long's COBRA premiums for eighteen months, totaling $23,454.
  • 7Outplacement services will be provided to Mr. Long for up to twelve months.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary purpose of this 8-K filing is to officially report the separation of Mark Long, the former Chief Financial Officer and Chief Strategy Officer, from Western Digital Corporation and to detail the terms of his separation agreement.

Mark Long will receive a $1,350,000 lump sum payment, a pro-rata fiscal year 2019 bonus payment of $711,563 (assuming 100% performance targets), accelerated vesting of certain equity awards, and $23,454 for 18 months of COBRA premium coverage.

Yes, certain outstanding unvested stock options and restricted stock units granted prior to August 30, 2018, will vest to the extent they would have upon an additional six months of employment. Specific performance stock units also have accelerated or prorated vesting conditions.

Yes, the separation agreement includes provisions requiring Mr. Long to comply with certain non-solicitation and cooperation obligations.