8-KLeadership Changes

WILLIAMS COMPANIES, INC. 8-K Report, Executive Changes (Feb 14, 2017)

Filed February 14, 2017For Securities:WMB

Summary

This 8-K filing from The Williams Companies, Inc. (WMB) reports a significant executive appointment: Micheal G. Dunn has been named Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) for both Williams and its master limited partnership, Williams Partners L.P. (WPZ), effective February 27, 2017. Mr. Dunn brings extensive experience from the energy sector, having previously held leadership roles at Questar Corporation and its subsidiaries, as well as PacifiCorp Energy. This appointment suggests a strategic move to bolster operational leadership within the company. The filing also details Mr. Dunn's compensation package, which includes a base salary of $600,000, eligibility for an annual incentive plan with a target of 90% of his base salary, and long-term incentive awards valued at an annual equity target of $2,500,000. The compensation structure emphasizes performance-based incentives, aligning Mr. Dunn's rewards with corporate and individual achievements. Investors should view this as a positive step towards experienced leadership, though the specifics of future performance against stated objectives will be key.

Key Highlights

  • 1Appointment of Micheal G. Dunn as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) for both The Williams Companies, Inc. and Williams Partners L.P. (WPZ).
  • 2Effective date of Mr. Dunn's appointment is February 27, 2017.
  • 3Mr. Dunn possesses over 25 years of energy industry leadership experience, including prior roles at Questar Corporation and PacifiCorp Energy.
  • 4Mr. Dunn's annual base salary is set at $600,000.
  • 5He is eligible for an annual incentive plan with a target award of 90% of his base salary.
  • 6Mr. Dunn will receive long-term incentive awards with an annual equity target of $2,500,000, comprising performance-based and time-based restricted stock units, and stock options.
  • 7Mr. Dunn is eligible for a Change in Control Severance Agreement for Tier One executives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Micheal G. Dunn has been appointed as the new Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) for both The Williams Companies, Inc. (WMB) and its subsidiary Williams Partners L.P. (WPZ). He brings over 25 years of experience in energy industry leadership.

Mr. Dunn will receive an annual base salary of $600,000. He is also eligible for performance-based bonuses through an annual incentive plan (targeting 90% of base salary) and long-term equity awards valued at an annual target of $2,500,000, including performance-based and time-based restricted stock units and stock options.

The appointment of Micheal G. Dunn as COO is effective February 27, 2017.

Yes, Mr. Dunn is eligible to enter into a Change in Control Severance Agreement, which is typically offered to senior executives in such positions.