8-KLeadership ChangesExhibits & Filings

WILLIAMS COMPANIES, INC. 8-K Report, Executive Changes (Mar 24, 2017)

Filed March 24, 2017For Securities:WMB

Summary

This 8-K filing from The Williams Companies, Inc. (WMB) primarily details the formalization of a separation agreement with Robert S. Purgason, former Senior Vice President – Access. This agreement, dated March 21, 2017, outlines the terms of his separation, which follows his announced retirement effective January 31, 2017. The filing confirms that Mr. Purgason will receive benefits consistent with the company's Executive Severance Pay Plan, along with a lump sum payment of $1,150,000 and his fiscal 2016 annual incentive plan award. For investors, this report signifies the finalization of a senior executive's departure and the associated financial commitments. While not a strategic shift, it provides clarity on the costs related to executive transitions. Investors should note that the full details of the separation agreement are available in the exhibit for a comprehensive understanding of the terms and conditions.

Key Highlights

  • 1Formalization of a Separation Agreement and General Release with former Senior Vice President – Access, Robert S. Purgason.
  • 2Mr. Purgason's retirement was previously announced and effective January 31, 2017.
  • 3The separation agreement provides benefits equivalent to the company's Executive Severance Pay Plan.
  • 4In addition to severance, Mr. Purgason will receive a payment of $1,150,000.
  • 5Mr. Purgason will also receive his fiscal 2016 annual incentive plan (AIP) award.
  • 6The agreement is contingent upon Mr. Purgason providing a full release of claims against the company.
  • 7The Separation Agreement is filed as an exhibit (Exhibit 10.1) for detailed review.

Frequently Asked Questions

The main purpose of this 8-K filing is to announce and detail the terms of the Separation Agreement and General Release entered into between The Williams Companies, Inc. and its former Senior Vice President – Access, Robert S. Purgason, following his retirement.

The filing outlines the financial commitments to Mr. Purgason, which include benefits under the company's Executive Severance Pay Plan, a cash payment of $1,150,000, and his 2016 annual incentive award. These represent costs associated with executive transition.

Mr. Purgason's retirement was effective January 31, 2017, as previously announced. This 8-K filing formalizes the separation agreement related to that retirement.

The full text of the Separation Agreement and General Release, dated March 21, 2017, is filed as Exhibit 10.1 to this Form 8-K, and is incorporated by reference for a complete understanding of the terms.