As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 29, 2018
Registration No. 333-
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM S-8
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
Solid Biosciences Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware | 90-0943402 | |
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) |
(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number) |
161 First Street, Third Floor
Cambridge, MA 02142
(Address, including zip code, of Principal Executive Offices)
Solid Biosciences Inc. 2018 Omnibus Incentive Plan
(Full title of the plan)
Ilan Ganot
Chief Executive Officer
Solid Biosciences Inc.
161 First Street, Third Floor
Cambridge, MA 02142
(617) 337-4680
(Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of agent for service)
Copies to:
Julie Allen, Esq.
Proskauer Rose LLP
Eleven Times Square
New York, NY 10036
Tel: (212) 969-3000
Fax: (212) 969-2900
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of large accelerated filer, accelerated filer and smaller reporting company in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large Accelerated Filer | ☐ | Accelerated Filer | ☐ | |||
Non-Accelerated Filer | ☒ (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) | Smaller Reporting Company | ☐ | |||
Emerging Growth Company | ☒ |
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 7(a)(2)(B) of the Securities Act. ☒
CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE
| ||||||||
Title Of Securities To Be Registered |
Amount of Securities to be Registered(1) |
Proposed Maximum Offering Price Per Share(2) |
Proposed Maximum Aggregate Offering Price(2) |
Amount Of Registration Fee | ||||
Common stock, par value $0.001 per share |
5,010,000 | $16.00 | $80,160,000 | $9,979.92 | ||||
| ||||||||
|
(1) | This registration statement on Form S-8 covers 5,010,000 shares of common stock, par value $0.001 per share of the registrant (Common Stock) available for issuance under the Solid Biosciences Inc. 2018 Omnibus Incentive Plan (the Plan). In addition, pursuant to Rule 416(a) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Securities Act), this registration statement on Form S-8 covers any additional shares of the registrant that may become issuable under the Plan to prevent dilution by reason of any stock dividend, stock split, recapitalization or any other similar transaction. |
(2) | Estimated in accordance with Rule 457(h) under the Securities Act solely for the purpose of calculating the registration fee on the basis of $16.00 per share, which is the initial public offering price per share of Common Stock set forth on the cover page of the registrants prospectus dated January 25, 2018 relating to the registrants initial public offering. |
PART I
INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE SECTION 10(a) PROSPECTUS
The information specified in Items 1 and 2 of Part I of the Form S-8 is omitted from this filing in accordance with the provisions of Rule 428 under the Securities Act and the introductory note to Part I of the Form S-8. The documents containing the information specified in Part I will be delivered to the participants in the Plan covered by this registration statement on Form S-8 (the Registration Statement) as required by Rule 428(b)(1).
PART II
INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT
Item 3. Incorporation of Documents by Reference.
The following documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the Commission), are hereby incorporated by reference into this Registration Statement:
(a) | The registrants prospectuses, which constitute a part of the registrants Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-222357), as amended (the S-1 Registration Statement), filed on December 29, 2017, under the Securities Act, and any form of prospectus subsequently filed pursuant to Rule 424(b) under the Securities Act in connection with the S-1 Registration Statement; and |
(b) | The description of Common Stock set forth in the registrants registration statement on Form 8-A (File No. 001-38360) filed with the Commission on January 22, 2018 pursuant to Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act). |
All documents filed by the registrant with the Commission pursuant to Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14 and 15(d) of the Exchange Act subsequent to the effectiveness of this Registration Statement and prior to the filing of a post-effective amendment to this Registration Statement indicating that all securities offered hereby have been sold or that deregisters all offerings of securities then remaining unsold, shall be deemed to be incorporated by reference in this Registration Statement and to be a part hereof from the date of filing of such documents (specifically excluding from incorporation any information that has been furnished and not filed on Form 8-K pursuant to Item 2.02, 7.01 or 9.01).
Any statement contained in a document incorporated or deemed to be incorporated by reference herein shall be deemed to be modified or superseded for purposes of this Registration Statement to the extent that a statement contained herein or in any subsequently filed document which also is or is deemed to be incorporated by reference herein modifies or supersedes such statement. Any such statement so modified or superseded shall not be deemed, except as so modified or superseded, to constitute a part of this Registration Statement.
Item 4. Description of Securities.
Not applicable.
Item 5. Interests of Named Experts and Counsel.
Not applicable.
Item 6. Indemnification of Directors and Officers.
Section 145 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the DGCL) grants each corporation organized thereunder the power to indemnify any person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of a corporation or enterprise, against expenses (including attorneys fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by him or her in connection with any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative, by reason of being or having been in any such capacity, if he or she acted in good faith in a manner reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation, and, with respect to any criminal action, or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his or her conduct was unlawful, except that with respect to an action brought by or in the right of the corporation such indemnification is limited to expenses (including attorneys fees). The registrants certificate of incorporation provides that the registrant must indemnify its directors and officers to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law.
Section 102(b)(7) of the DGCL enables a corporation, in its certificate of incorporation or an amendment thereto, to eliminate or limit the personal liability of a director to the corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for violations of the directors fiduciary duty, except (i) for any breach of the directors duty of loyalty to the corporation or its stockholders, (ii) for acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law, (iii) pursuant to Section 174 of the DGCL (providing for liability of directors for unlawful payment of dividends or unlawful stock purchases or redemptions) or (iv) for any transaction from which a director derived an improper personal benefit. The registrants certificate of incorporation provides for such limitations on liability for its directors.
In addition, the registrant maintains a policy of directors and officers liability insurance that insures its directors and officers against the cost of defense, settlement or payment of a judgment in some circumstances.
Item 7. Exemption from Registration Claimed.
Not applicable.
Item 8. Exhibits.
Item 9. Undertakings.
(a) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes:
(i) To file, during any period in which offers or sales are being made, a post-effective amendment to this Registration Statement:
(1) to include any prospectus required by Section 10(a)(3) of the Securities Act;
(2) to reflect in the prospectus any facts or events arising after the effective date of the Registration Statement (or the most recent post-effective amendment thereof) which, individually or in the aggregate, represent a fundamental change in the information set forth in the Registration Statement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any increase or decrease in volume of securities offered (if the total dollar value of securities offered would not exceed that which was registered) and any deviation from the low or high end of the estimated maximum offering range may be reflected in the form of a prospectus filed with the Commission pursuant to Rule 424(b) if, in the aggregate, the changes in volume and price represent no more than a 20% change in the maximum aggregate offering price set forth in the Calculation of Registration Fee table in the effective Registration Statement; and
(3) to include any material information with respect to the plan of distribution not previously disclosed in the Registration Statement or any material change to such information in the Registration Statement;
provided, however, that paragraphs (a)(i)(1) and (a)(i)(2) of this section do not apply if the information required to be included in a post-effective amendment by those paragraphs is contained in reports filed with or furnished to the Commission by the registrant pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act that are incorporated by reference in the Registration Statement;
(ii) That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act, each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof; and
(iii) To remove from registration by means of a post-effective amendment any of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the termination of the offering.
(b) The registrant hereby undertakes that, for purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act, each filing of the registrants annual report pursuant to Section 13(a) or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act (and, where applicable, each filing of an employee benefit plans annual report pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act) that is incorporated by reference in the Registration Statement shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.
(c) Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant certifies that it has reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form S-8 and has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the city of Cambridge, State of Massachusetts, on January 29, 2018.
SOLID BIOSCIENCES INC. | ||
By: | /s/ Ilan Ganot | |
Ilan Ganot | ||
Chief Executive Officer |
POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that each person whose signature appears below hereby severally constitutes and appoints Ilan Ganot and Jennifer Ziolkowksi, and each of them individually, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, his or her true and lawful attorney-in fact and agent, with full powers to each of them to sign for us, in our names and in the capacities indicated below, this Registration Statement on Form S-8 and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and any and all amendments to said Registration Statement (including post-effective amendments), granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in connection therewith, as fully to all intents and purposes as each of us might or could do in person, and hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, or their substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue of this Power of Attorney. This Power of Attorney may be executed in counterparts.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the date indicated.
Signatures |
Title |
Date | ||||
By: | /s/ Ilan Ganot Ilan Ganot |
Chief Executive Officer and Director (Principal Executive Officer) |
January 29, 2018 | |||
By: | /s/ Gilad Hayeem Gilad Hayeem |
President and Director | January 29, 2018 | |||
By: | /s/ Jennifer Ziolkowski Jennifer Ziolkowski |
Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) |
January 29, 2018 |
By: | /s/ Andrey Zarur Andrey Zarur, Ph.D. |
Chairman of the Board of Directors | January 29, 2018 | |||
By: | /s/ Matthew Arnold |
Director | January 29, 2018 | |||
Matthew Arnold | ||||||
By: | /s/ Robert Huffines |
Director | January 29, 2018 | |||
Robert Huffines | ||||||
By: | /s/ Adam Koppel |
Director | January 29, 2018 | |||
Adam Koppel, M.D., Ph.D. | ||||||
By: | /s/ Rajeev Shah |
Director | January 29, 2018 | |||
Rajeev Shah | ||||||
By: | /s/ Adam Stone |
Director | January 29, 2018 | |||
Adam Stone | ||||||
By: | /s/ Lynne Sullivan |
Director | January 29, 2018 | |||
Lynne Sullivan |
Exhibit 4.1
CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
OF
SOLID BIOSCIENCES INC.
The undersigned, for purposes of incorporating a corporation under the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, does hereby certify as follows:
ARTICLE I
NAME
The name of the Corporation is: Solid Biosciences Inc. (the Corporation).
ARTICLE II
REGISTERED OFFICE AND AGENT
The address of the Corporations registered office in the State of Delaware is Corporation Trust Center, 1209 Orange Street, Wilmington, Delaware 19801. The name of the Corporations registered agent at such address is The Corporation Trust Company.
ARTICLE III
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Corporation is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which corporations may be organized under the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the DGCL). The Corporation is being incorporated in connection with the conversion of Solid Biosciences, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (the LLC), to the Corporation, and this Certificate of Incorporation is being filed simultaneously with the Certificate of Conversion of the LLC to the Corporation.
ARTICLE IV
CAPITAL STOCK
The aggregate number of shares that the Corporation shall have authority to issue is 310,000,000 shares consisting of:
1. 300,000,000 shares of Common Stock, $0.001 par value per share (the Common Stock); and
2. 10,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock, $0.001 par value per share (the Preferred Stock).
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Section 1. Common Stock.
(a) Each share of Common Stock issued and outstanding shall be identical in all respects one with the other and no dividends shall be paid on any shares of Common Stock unless the same dividend is paid on all shares of Common Stock outstanding at the time of such payment.
(b) Except for and subject to those rights expressly granted to the holders of the Preferred Stock, or except as may be provided by the DGCL, the holders of Common Stock shall have exclusively all other rights of stockholders, including, but not by way of limitation, (i) the right to receive dividends, when, as and if declared by the Board of Directors out of assets lawfully available therefor, and (ii) in the event of any distribution of assets upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation or otherwise, the right to receive ratably and equally all the assets and funds of the Corporation remaining after payment of all of the Corporations debts and other liabilities and payment to the holders of any then outstanding shares of Preferred Stock of the specific amounts that they are entitled to receive upon such liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation as herein provided.
(c) Each holder of shares of Common Stock shall be entitled to one vote for each share of such Common Stock held by such holder, and voting power with respect to all classes of securities of the Corporation shall be vested solely in the Common Stock, other than as specifically provided in this Certificate of Incorporation, as it may be amended, with respect to the Preferred Stock.
(d) The Common Stock shall not be convertible into, or exchangeable for, shares of any other class or classes or of any other series of the same class of the Corporations capital stock.
(e) No holder of Common Stock shall have any preemptive rights with respect to the Common Stock or any other securities of the Corporation or to any obligations convertible (directly or indirectly) into securities of the Corporation whether now or hereafter authorized.
Section 2. Preferred Stock.
Authority is hereby vested in the Board of Directors of the Corporation to provide for the issuance of Preferred Stock in one or more series and in connection therewith to fix by resolution providing for the issue of any such series, the number of shares to be included and such of the preferences and relative participating, optional or other special rights and limitations of such series, including, without limitation, rights of redemption or conversion into Common Stock, to the fullest extent now or hereafter permitted by the DGCL. The authority of the Board of Directors with respect to each series of Preferred Stock shall include, but not be limited to, determination of the following:
(i) the designation of the series, which may be by distinguishing number, letter or title; |
(ii) the number of shares of the series, which number the Board of Directors may thereafter increase or decrease (but not below the number of shares thereof then outstanding); |
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(iii) whether dividends, if any, shall be cumulative or noncumulative and the dividend rate of the series; |
(iv) dates at which dividends, if any, shall be payable; |
(v) the redemption rights and price or prices, if any, for shares of the series; |
(vi) the terms and amount of any sinking fund provided for the purchase or redemption of shares of the series; |
(vii) the amounts payable on, and the preferences, if any, of shares of the series in the event of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the affairs of the Corporation; |
(viii) whether the shares of the series shall be convertible into shares of any other class or series, or any other security, of the Corporation or any other entity, and, if so, the specification of such other class or series of such other security, the conversion price or prices or rate or rates, any adjustments thereof, the date or dates at which such shares shall be convertible and all other terms and conditions upon which such conversion may be made; |
(ix) restrictions on the issuance of shares of the same series or of any other class or series; |
(x) the voting rights, if any, of the holders of shares of the series; and |
(xi) such other powers, privileges, preferences and rights, and qualifications, limitations and restrictions thereof, as the Board of Directors shall determine. |
Section 3. Conversion of Limited Liability Company Interests.
Upon the filing of the Certificate of Conversion of the LLC to the Corporation and this Certificate of Incorporation or, if such certificates provide that they are not to become effective until a specified later date, upon such specified later effective date (the Effective Time) each limited liability company unit of the LLC issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time will be deemed to be 0.8485 issued and outstanding fully paid and nonassessable share of Common Stock. Notwithstanding the foregoing, there shall be no fractional shares of Common Stock issued in connection with the conversion and, in lieu thereof, the Corporation shall pay to each former holder of limited liability company units otherwise entitled to receive any such fraction an amount equal to the fair value thereof, as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors.
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ARTICLE V
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Section 1. Number of Directors.
The number of directors that shall constitute the Board of Directors shall be fixed from time to time by resolution adopted by the affirmative vote of a majority of the total number of directors then in office.
Section 2. Classes of Directors.
The Board of Directors shall be and is divided into three classes, as nearly equal in number as possible, designated: Class I, Class II and Class III. In case of any increase or decrease, from time to time, in the number of directors, the number of directors shall be apportioned as nearly equal as possible. No decrease in the number of directors shall shorten the term of any incumbent director.
Section 3. Election and Term of Office.
The directors shall be elected in accordance with the procedures set forth in the Bylaws of the Corporation (the Bylaws), as permitted by law. Each director shall serve for a term ending on the date of the third annual meeting of stockholders following the annual meeting at which such director was elected; provided, that each director initially appointed to Class I shall serve for an initial term expiring at the Corporations first annual meeting of stockholders following the effectiveness of this provision; each director initially appointed to Class II shall serve for an initial term expiring at the Corporations second annual meeting of stockholders following the effectiveness of this provision; and each director initially appointed to Class III shall serve for an initial term expiring at the Corporations third annual meeting of stockholders following the effectiveness of this provision. The directors shall be elected and shall hold office only in this manner, except as expressly provided in Section 4 and Section 5 of this Article V. Each director shall hold office until a successor is duly elected and qualified or until his or her earlier death, resignation, retirement, disqualification or removal. Elections of directors need not be by written ballot unless the Bylaws shall so provide.
Section 4. Newly Created Directorships and Vacancies.
Newly created directorships resulting from any increase in the number of directors or any vacancies in the Board of Directors resulting from expansion of the Board of Directors, death, resignation, retirement, disqualification, removal from office or any other cause may be filled, so long as there is at least one remaining director, only by the Board of Directors, provided that a quorum is then in office and present, or by a majority of the directors then in office, if less than a quorum is then in office, or by the sole remaining director. Directors elected to fill vacancies shall have the same remaining term as that of his or her predecessor.
Section 5. Removal of Directors.
Directors may be removed from office only for cause and, in addition to any vote required by law, the affirmative vote of the holders of at least two-thirds of the voting power of all then outstanding shares of capital stock of the Corporation entitled to vote generally in an election of directors, voting together as a single class, shall be required to effect such removal.
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Section 6. Rights of Holders of Preferred Stock.
Notwithstanding the provisions of this Article V, whenever the holders of one or more series of Preferred Stock issued by the Corporation shall have the right, voting separately or together by series, to elect directors at an annual or special meeting of stockholders, the election, term of office, filling of vacancies and other features of such directorship shall be governed by the rights of such Preferred Stock as set forth in this Certificate of Incorporation or the certificate of designation governing such series.
ARTICLE VI
ANNUAL MEETING
The annual meeting of stockholders for the election of directors and for the transaction of such other business as may properly come before the meeting shall be held at such date, time and place, if any, as shall be determined solely by the resolution of the Board of Directors in its sole and absolute discretion, including, without limitation, by remote electronic communication technology.
ARTICLE VII
BYLAWS
The Board of Directors is expressly authorized to adopt, amend or repeal the Bylaws. The affirmative vote of at least a majority of the entire Board of Directors shall be required to adopt, amend or repeal the Bylaws. Notwithstanding the foregoing and anything contained in this Certificate of Incorporation to the contrary, the Bylaws shall not be amended or repealed by the stockholders, and no provision inconsistent therewith shall be adopted by the stockholders, without the affirmative vote of the holders of at least two-thirds of the voting power of all outstanding shares of the Corporation entitled to vote generally in the election of directors, voting together as a single class.
ARTICLE VIII
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
To the fullest extent permitted by the DGCL as it now exists or may hereafter be amended (but, in the case of any such amendment, only to the extent that such amendment permits the Corporation to provide broader director protection rights than permitted prior thereto), no director of the Corporation shall be personally liable to the Corporation or any of its stockholders for monetary damages arising from a breach of fiduciary duty owed to the Corporation or its stockholders. Any repeal or modification of this Article VIII by the stockholders of the Corporation shall not adversely affect any right or protection of a director of the Corporation existing at the time of such repeal or modification with respect to acts or omissions occurring prior to such repeal or modification.
ARTICLE IX
INDEMNIFICATION
The Corporation shall indemnify its directors to the fullest extent permitted by the DGCL as it now exists or may hereafter be amended (but, in the case of any such amendment, only to
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the extent that such amendment permits the Corporation to provide broader protection rights than permitted prior thereto), and such right to indemnification shall continue as to a person who has ceased to be a director of the Corporation and shall inure to the benefit of his or her heirs, executors and personal and legal representatives; provided, that, except for proceedings to enforce rights and indemnification, the Corporation shall not be obligated to indemnify any director (or his or her heirs, executors or personal or legal representatives) in connection with a proceeding (or part thereof) initiated by such person unless such proceeding (or part thereof) was authorized or consented by the Board of Directors. The right to indemnification conferred by this Article X shall include the right to be paid by the Corporation the expenses incurred in defending or otherwise participating in any proceeding in advance of its final disposition.
The Corporation may, to the extent authorized from time to time by the Board of Directors, provide rights to indemnification and to the advancement of expenses to officers, employees and agents of the Corporation similar to those conferred in this Article X to the Board of Directors.
The rights to indemnification and to the advancement of expenses in this Article X shall not be exclusive of any other right which any person may have or hereafter acquire under this Certificate of Incorporation, as amended from time to time, the Bylaws, any statute, agreement, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise.
Any repeal or modification of this Article X by the stockholders of the Corporation shall not adversely affect any rights to indemnification and to the advancement of expenses of a director or officer of the Corporation existing at the time of such repeal or modification with respect to any acts or omissions occurring prior to such repeal or modification.
ARTICLE X
PLACE OF STOCKHOLDER MEETINGS; BOOKS AND RECORDS
Meetings of stockholders may be held within or without the State of Delaware, as the Board of Directors or the Bylaws may provide. The books of the Corporation may be kept (subject to any provision contained in the DGCL) outside the State of Delaware at such place or places as may be designated from time to time by the Board of Directors or in the Bylaws.
ARTICLE XI
ACTION BY WRITTEN CONSENT; SPECIAL MEETINGS OF STOCKHOLDERS; ADVANCE NOTICE
Section 1. No Action by Written Consent.
Any action required or permitted to be taken by stockholders of the Corporation must be effected at a meeting of the stockholders of the Corporation and may not be effected by written consent in lieu of a meeting.
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Section 2. Special Meetings.
Except as otherwise expressly provided by the terms of any series of Preferred Stock and to the requirements of applicable law, special meetings of stockholders of the Corporation may be called only by a majority of the Board of Directors, the Chairman of the Board of Directors or the Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation, and the ability of the stockholders to call a special meeting is hereby specifically denied. Only such business shall be considered at a special meeting of stockholders as shall have been stated in the notice for such meeting.
Section 3. Advance Notice.
Advance notice of stockholder nominations for the election of directors and of business to be brought by stockholders before any meeting of the stockholders of the Corporation shall be given in the manner provided in the Bylaws.
ARTICLE XII
SEVERABILITY
If any provision or provisions of this Certificate of Incorporation shall be held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable as applied to any circumstance for any reason whatsoever, (i) the validity, legality and enforceability of such provisions in any other circumstance and of the remaining provisions of this Certificate of Incorporation (including, without limitation, each portion of any paragraph of this Certificate of Incorporation containing any such provision held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable that is not itself held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable) shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby and (ii) to the fullest extent possible, the provisions of this Certificate of Incorporation (including, without limitation, each such portion of any paragraph of this Certificate of Incorporation containing any such provision held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable) shall be construed so as to permit the Corporation to protect its directors, officers, employees and agents from personal liability in respect of their good faith service to or for the benefit of the Corporation to the fullest extent permitted by law.
ARTICLE XIII
CHOICE OF FORUM
Unless the Corporation consents in writing to the selection of an alternative forum, the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware shall be the sole and exclusive forum for (i) any derivative action or proceeding brought on behalf of the Corporation, (ii) any action asserting a claim for breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation to the Corporation or the Corporations stockholders, (iii) any action asserting a claim arising pursuant to any provision of the Delaware General Corporation Law, the Certificate of Incorporation or the Bylaws or (iv) any action asserting a claim governed by the internal affairs doctrine, in each case subject to said Court of Chancery having personal jurisdiction over the indispensable parties named as defendants therein.
ARTICLE XIV
AMENDMENT
The Corporation reserves the right to amend, alter, change or repeal any provision contained in this Certificate of Incorporation, in the manner now or hereafter prescribed by
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statute, and all rights conferred upon stockholders herein are granted subject to this reservation. In addition, the affirmative vote of the holders of at least two-thirds of the voting power of all outstanding shares of the Corporation entitled to vote generally in the election of directors shall be required to adopt any provision inconsistent with, to amend or repeal any provision of, or to adopt a bylaw inconsistent with Article V, Article VII, Article XI, Article XIII or this Article XIV of this Certificate of Incorporation.
ARTICLE XV
INCORPORATOR
The incorporator of the Corporation is Janice Lee, whose mailing address is c/o Proskauer Rose LLP, 11 Times Square, New York, New York 10036.
ARTICLE XVI
INITIAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The powers of the incorporator are to terminate upon the filing of this Certificate of Incorporation with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware. The names of the persons who are to serve as the initial directors of the Corporation are:
Initial Class I Directors
Mr. Robert Huffines
Dr. Adam Koppel
Mr. Rajeev Shah
Initial Class II Directors
Mr. Matthew Arnold
Mr. Adam Stone
Ms. Lynne Sullivan
Initial Class III Directors
Mr. Ilan Ganot
Mr. Gilad Hayeem
Dr. Andrey Zarur
The mailing address of each such director is: c/o Solid Biosciences Inc., 161 First Street, Third Floor, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142.
* * *
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The undersigned incorporator hereby acknowledges that the foregoing certificate of incorporation is her act and deed on this the 25th day of January, 2018.
/s/ Janice Lee |
Janice Lee |
Incorporator |
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Exhibit 4.2
BYLAWS
OF
SOLID BIOSCIENCES INC.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Article I Stockholders |
1 | |||||
Section 1.01 |
Annual Meetings |
1 | ||||
Section 1.02 |
Special Meetings |
1 | ||||
Section 1.03 |
Notice of Stockholder Business and Nominations |
1 | ||||
Section 1.04 |
Place of Meetings |
4 | ||||
Section 1.05 |
Notice of Meetings |
4 | ||||
Section 1.06 |
Stockholders List |
4 | ||||
Section 1.07 |
Quorum |
4 | ||||
Section 1.08 |
Adjournment |
5 | ||||
Section 1.09 |
Voting |
5 | ||||
Section 1.10 |
Voting by Ballot |
5 | ||||
Section 1.11 |
Proxies |
5 | ||||
Section 1.12 |
No Action by Written Consent |
6 | ||||
Section 1.13 |
Organization; Procedure |
6 | ||||
Section 1.14 |
Inspectors of Election |
6 | ||||
Section 1.15 |
Conduct of Meetings |
6 | ||||
Article II Board of Directors |
7 | |||||
Section 2.01 |
General Powers |
7 | ||||
Section 2.02 |
Number, Election and Term of Office |
7 | ||||
Section 2.03 |
Resignations |
7 | ||||
Section 2.04 |
Removal of Directors; Vacancies |
8 | ||||
Section 2.05 |
Annual and Regular Meetings |
8 | ||||
Section 2.06 |
Special Meetings |
8 | ||||
Section 2.07 |
Quorum and Manner of Acting |
8 | ||||
Section 2.08 |
Action Without a Meeting |
9 | ||||
Section 2.09 |
Action by Telephonic Communications |
9 | ||||
Section 2.10 |
Compensation |
9 | ||||
Section 2.11 |
Interested Directors |
9 | ||||
Article III Committees |
10 | |||||
Section 3.01 |
Committees of the Board of Directors |
10 | ||||
Section 3.02 |
Conduct of Meetings |
10 | ||||
Section 3.03 |
Audit Committee |
10 | ||||
Section 3.04 |
Compensation Committee |
10 | ||||
Section 3.05 |
Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee |
11 |
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Article IV Officers |
11 | |||||
Section 4.01 |
Number |
11 | ||||
Section 4.02 |
Appointment of Officers |
11 | ||||
Section 4.03 |
Salaries |
11 | ||||
Section 4.04 |
Removal and Resignation; Vacancies |
11 | ||||
Section 4.05 |
Authority and Duties of Officers |
11 | ||||
Section 4.06 |
Representation of Shares of Other Corporations |
11 | ||||
Article V Capital Stock |
12 | |||||
Section 5.01 |
Form of Certificates |
12 | ||||
Section 5.02 |
Lost, Destroyed or Mutilated Certificates |
12 | ||||
Section 5.03 |
Books of Account and Record of Stockholders |
13 | ||||
Section 5.04 |
Transfer of Stock |
13 | ||||
Section 5.05 |
Record Date |
13 | ||||
Section 5.06 |
Transfer Agent and Registrar |
14 | ||||
Section 5.07 |
Regulations |
14 | ||||
Article VI Indemnification |
14 | |||||
Section 6.01 |
Indemnification of Directors and Officers |
14 | ||||
Section 6.02 |
Procedure for Indemnification of Directors |
14 | ||||
Section 6.03 |
Expenses Payable in Advance |
15 | ||||
Section 6.04 |
Nonexclusivity of Indemnification and Advancement of Expenses |
15 | ||||
Section 6.05 |
Insurance |
15 | ||||
Section 6.06 |
Certain Definitions |
16 | ||||
Section 6.07 |
Survival of Indemnification and Advancement of Expenses |
16 | ||||
Section 6.08 |
Other Indemnification and Advancement of Expenses |
16 | ||||
Section 6.09 |
Amendment or Repeal |
17 | ||||
Section 6.10 |
Contract Rights |
17 | ||||
Section 6.11 |
Other Sources |
17 | ||||
Article VII Offices |
17 | |||||
Section 7.01 |
Registered Office |
17 | ||||
Section 7.02 |
Other Offices |
17 | ||||
Article VIII Notices |
17 | |||||
Section 8.01 |
Notices |
17 | ||||
Section 8.02 |
Waivers of Notice |
18 |
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Article IX General Provisions |
18 | |||||
Section 9.01 |
Dividends |
18 | ||||
Section 9.02 |
Reserves |
18 | ||||
Section 9.03 |
Execution of Instruments |
18 | ||||
Section 9.04 |
Corporate Indebtedness |
18 | ||||
Section 9.05 |
Deposits |
19 | ||||
Section 9.06 |
Checks |
19 | ||||
Section 9.07 |
Sale, Transfer, etc. of Securities |
19 | ||||
Section 9.08 |
Voting as Stockholder |
19 | ||||
Section 9.09 |
Fiscal Year |
19 | ||||
Section 9.10 |
Seal |
19 | ||||
Section 9.11 |
Books and Records; Inspection |
20 | ||||
Section 9.12 |
Choice of Forum |
20 | ||||
Article X Force and Effect of Bylaws |
20 | |||||
Article XI Amendments |
20 |
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ARTICLE I
STOCKHOLDERS
Section 1.01 Annual Meetings. An annual meeting of the stockholders of Solid Biosciences Inc. (the Corporation) for the election of directors and for the transaction of such other business as properly may come before such meeting shall be held at such date and time as may be fixed from time to time by resolution of the board of directors of the Corporation (the Board of Directors) and set forth in the notice, or waiver of notice, of such meeting.
Section 1.02 Special Meetings. Special meetings of stockholders of the Corporation may be called only by a majority of the Board of Directors, the Chairman of the Board of Directors or the Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation. Only such business shall be considered at a special meeting of stockholders as shall have been stated in the notice for such meeting.
Section 1.03 Notice of Stockholder Business and Nominations.
(a) Annual Meetings of Stockholders.
(i) Subject to the provisions of ARTICLE II of these Bylaws, nominations of persons for election to the Board of Directors and the proposal of business to be considered by the stockholders may be made at an annual meeting of stockholders only (A) pursuant to the Corporations notice of meeting (or any supplement thereto), (B) by or at the direction of the Board of Directors or any committee thereof or (C) by any stockholder of the Corporation who was a stockholder of record of the Corporation at the time the notice provided for in this Section 1.03 is delivered to the Secretary of the Corporation, who is entitled to vote at the meeting and who complies with the notice procedures set forth in this Section 1.03.
(ii) For nominations or other business to be properly brought before an annual meeting by a stockholder pursuant to clause (C) of paragraph (a)(i) of this Section 1.03, the stockholder must have given timely notice thereof in writing to the Secretary of the Corporation and any such proposed business other than the nominations of persons for election to the Board of Directors must constitute a proper matter for stockholder action. To be timely, a stockholders notice shall be delivered to the Secretary of the Corporation at the principal executive offices of the Corporation not later than the close of business on the ninetieth (90th) day, nor earlier than the close of business on the one hundred twentieth (120th) day, prior to the first anniversary of the preceding years annual meeting; provided, however, that in the event that the date of the annual meeting is more than thirty (30) days before or more than seventy (70) days after such anniversary date, notice by the stockholder must be so delivered not earlier than the close of business on the one hundred twentieth (120th) day prior to such annual meeting and not later than the close of business on the later of the ninetieth (90th) day prior to such annual meeting or the tenth (10th) day following the day on which public announcement of the date of such meeting is first made by the Corporation. In no event shall the public announcement of an adjournment or postponement of an annual meeting commence a new time period (or extend any time period) for the giving of a stockholders notice as described above. Such stockholders notice shall set forth: (A) as to each person whom the stockholder proposes to nominate for election as a director:
(1) all information relating to such person that is required to be disclosed in solicitations of proxies for election of directors in an election contest, or is otherwise required, in each case, pursuant to and in accordance with Regulation 14A under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act), and (2) such persons written consent to being named in the proxy statement as a nominee and to serving as a director if elected; (B) as to any other business that the stockholder proposes to bring before the meeting, a brief description of the business desired to be brought before the meeting, the text of the proposal or business (including the text of any resolutions proposed for consideration and in the event that such business includes a proposal to amend the Bylaws of the Corporation, the language of the proposed amendment), the reasons for conducting such business at the meeting and any material interest in such business of such stockholder and the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the proposal is made; and (C) as to the stockholder giving the notice and the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the nomination or proposal is made (1) the name and address of such stockholder, as they appear on the Corporations books, and of such beneficial owner, (2) the class and number of shares of capital stock of the Corporation that are owned beneficially and of record by such stockholder and such beneficial owner, (3) a representation that the stockholder is a holder of record of stock of the Corporation entitled to vote at such meeting and intends to appear in person or by proxy at the meeting to propose such business or nomination and (4) a representation whether the stockholder or the beneficial owner, if any, intends or is part of a group that intends (x) to deliver a proxy statement and/or form of proxy to holders of at least the percentage of the Corporations outstanding capital stock required to approve or adopt the proposal or elect the nominee and/or (y) otherwise to solicit proxies from stockholders in support of such proposal or nomination. The foregoing notice requirements of this Section 1.03 shall be deemed satisfied by a stockholder if the stockholder has notified the Corporation of his, her or its intention to present a proposal or nomination at an annual meeting in compliance with applicable rules and regulations promulgated under the Exchange Act and such stockholders proposal or nomination has been included in a proxy statement that has been prepared by the Corporation to solicit proxies for such annual meeting. The Corporation may require any proposed nominee to furnish such other information as it may reasonably require to determine the eligibility of such proposed nominee to serve as a director of the Corporation.
(iii) Notwithstanding anything in the second sentence of paragraph (a)(ii) of this Section 1.03 to the contrary, in the event that the number of directors to be elected to the Board of Directors at an annual meeting is increased and there is no public announcement by the Corporation naming the nominees for the additional directorships at least one hundred (100) days prior to the first anniversary of the preceding years annual meeting, a stockholders notice required by this Section 1.03 shall also be considered timely, but only with respect to nominees for the additional directorships, if it shall be delivered to the Secretary of the Corporation at the principal executive offices of the Corporation not later than the close of business on the tenth (10th) day following the day on which such public announcement is first made by the Corporation.
(b) Special Meetings of Stockholders. Subject to the provisions of Article II of these Bylaws, nominations of persons for election to the Board of Directors may be made at a special meeting of stockholders at which directors are to be elected pursuant to the Corporations notice of meeting (i) by or at the direction of the Board of Directors or any committee thereof or (ii) provided that the Board of Directors has determined that directors shall be elected at such
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meeting, by any stockholder of the Corporation who is a stockholder of record at the time the notice provided for in this Section 1.03 is delivered to the Secretary of the Corporation, who is entitled to vote at the meeting and upon such election and who complies with the notice procedures set forth in this Section 1.03. Subject to the provisions of Article II of these Bylaws, in the event the Corporation calls a special meeting of stockholders for the purpose of electing one or more directors to the Board of Directors, any such stockholder entitled to vote in such election of directors may nominate a person or persons (as the case may be) for election to such position(s) as specified in the Corporations notice of meeting, if the stockholders notice required by paragraph (a)(ii) of this Section 1.03 shall be delivered to the Secretary of the Corporation at the principal executive offices of the Corporation not earlier than the close of business on the one hundred twentieth (120th) day prior to such special meeting and not later than the close of business on the later of the ninetieth (90th) day prior to such special meeting or the tenth (10th) day following the day on which public announcement is first made of the date of the special meeting and of the nominees proposed by the Board of Directors to be elected at such meeting. In no event shall the public announcement of an adjournment or postponement of a special meeting commence a new time period (or extend any time period) for the giving of a stockholders notice as described above.
(c) General.
(i) Only such persons who are nominated in accordance with the procedures set forth in this Section 1.03 or Article II of these Bylaws shall be eligible to be elected at an annual or special meeting of stockholders of the Corporation to serve as directors and only such business shall be conducted at a meeting of stockholders as shall have been brought before the meeting in accordance with the procedures set forth in this Section 1.03. Except as otherwise provided by law, the chairman of the meeting shall have the power and duty (A) to determine whether a nomination or any business proposed to be brought before the meeting was made or proposed, as the case may be, in accordance with the procedures set forth in this Section 1.03 or Article II (including whether the stockholder or beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the nomination or proposal is made or solicited (or is part of a group which solicited) or did not so solicit, as the case may be, proxies in support of such stockholders nominee or proposal in compliance with such stockholders representation as required by clause (a)(ii)(C)(4) of this Section 1.03) and (b) if any proposed nomination or business was not made or proposed in compliance with this Section 1.03, to declare that such nomination shall be disregarded or that such proposed business shall not be transacted. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Section 1.03, unless otherwise required by law, if the stockholder (or a qualified representative of the stockholder) does not appear at the annual or special meeting of stockholders of the Corporation to present a nomination or proposed business, such nomination shall be disregarded and such proposed business shall not be transacted, notwithstanding that proxies in respect of such vote may have been received by the Corporation. For purposes of this Section 1.03, to be considered a qualified representative of the stockholder, a person must be a duly authorized officer, manager or partner of such stockholder or must be authorized by a writing executed by such stockholder or an electronic transmission delivered by such stockholder to act for such stockholder as proxy at the meeting of stockholders and such person must produce such writing or electronic transmission, or a reliable reproduction of the writing or electronic transmission, at the meeting of stockholders.
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(ii) For purposes of this Section 1.03, public announcement shall include disclosure in a press release reported by the Dow Jones News Service, Associated Press or comparable national news service or in a document publicly filed by the Corporation with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Section 13, 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act.
(iii) Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Section 1.03, a stockholder shall also comply with all applicable requirements of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations thereunder with respect to the matters set forth in this Section 1.03. Nothing in this Section 1.03 shall be deemed to affect any rights (A) of stockholders to request inclusion of proposals or nominations in the Corporations proxy statement pursuant to applicable rules and regulations promulgated under the Exchange Act or (B) of the holders of any series of preferred stock of the Corporation to elect directors pursuant to any applicable provisions of the certificate of incorporation of the Corporation, as may be amended from time to time (the Charter).
Section 1.04 Place of Meetings. Meetings of the stockholders shall be held at such places, within or without the State of Delaware, or, within the sole discretion of the Board of Directors, by remote electronic communication technologies, as shall be specified in the respective notice, or waiver of notice, of such meeting. If no designation is made, the place of meeting shall be the principal executive office of the Corporation.
Section 1.05 Notice of Meetings. Whenever stockholders are required or permitted to take action at a meeting, written notice (which can be electronic) stating the place, if any, date, time and, in the case of special meetings, the purpose or purposes of such meeting shall be given to each stockholder entitled to vote at such meeting. Unless otherwise provided by law, the Charter or these Bylaws, the written notice of any meeting shall be given not less than ten (10) nor more than sixty (60) days before the date of the meeting to each stockholder entitled to vote at such meeting. If mailed, such notice shall be deemed to be given when deposited in the United States mail, postage prepaid, directed to the stockholder at such stockholders address as it appears in the records of the Corporation.
Section 1.06 Stockholders List. The officer having charge of the stock ledger of the Corporation shall make, at least ten (10) days before every meeting of the stockholders, a complete list of the stockholders entitled to vote at such meeting arranged in alphabetical order, showing the address of each stockholder and the number of shares registered in the name of each stockholder. Such list shall be open to the examination of any stockholder, for any purpose germane to the meeting, during ordinary business hours, for a period of at least ten (10) days prior to the meeting, (i) on a reasonably accessible electronic network, provided that the information required to gain access to such list is provided with the notice of meeting, or (ii) during ordinary business hours at the principal place of business of the Corporation. The list of stockholders must also be open to examination at the meeting as required by applicable law. Except as otherwise provided by law, the stock ledger shall be the only evidence as to who are the stockholders entitled to examine the list of stockholders required by this Section 1.06 or to vote in person or by proxy at any meeting of stockholders.
Section 1.07 Quorum. Except as otherwise required by law or by the Charter, the presence in person or by proxy of the holders of record representing a majority of the voting power entitled to vote at a meeting of stockholders shall constitute a quorum for the transaction
4
of business at such meeting. If a quorum is not present, the chairman of the meeting may adjourn the meeting to another time and/or place in the manner provided by Section 1.08 until a quorum shall be so present or represented.
Section 1.08 Adjournment. Notice of any adjourned meeting of the stockholders of the Corporation need not be given if the place, if any, date and hour thereof, and the means of remote communications, if any, by which stockholders and proxy holders may be deemed to be present in person and vote at such meeting, are announced at the meeting at which the adjournment is taken; provided, however, that if the adjournment is for more than thirty (30) days, or if after the adjournment a new record date for the adjourned meeting is fixed, a notice of the adjourned meeting shall be given to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at such meeting. At any adjourned meeting at which a quorum is present, any business may be transacted that might have been transacted on the original date of the meeting.
Section 1.09 Voting. If, pursuant to Section 5.05 of these Bylaws, a record date has been fixed, every holder of record of shares entitled to vote at a meeting of stockholders shall be entitled to that number of votes as set forth in the Charter for each share outstanding in his or her name on the books of the Corporation at the close of business on such record date. If no record date has been fixed, then every holder of record of shares entitled to vote at a meeting of stockholders shall be entitled to that number of votes as set forth in the Charter for each share of stock standing in his or her name on the books of the Corporation at the close of business on the day next preceding the day on which notice of the meeting is given, or, if notice is waived, at the close of business on the day next preceding the day on which the meeting is held. Except as otherwise required by law or by the Charter or by these Bylaws, the vote of a majority of the shares represented in person or by proxy at any meeting at which a quorum is present shall be sufficient for the transaction of any business at such meeting.
Section 1.10 Voting by Ballot. No vote of the stockholders need be taken by written ballot, or by a ballot submitted by electronic transmission, unless otherwise required by law. Any vote that need not be taken by written ballot, or by a ballot submitted by electronic transmission, may be conducted in any manner approved by the meeting.
Section 1.11 Proxies. Any stockholder entitled to vote at any meeting of the stockholders or to express consent to or dissent from corporate action in writing without a meeting may authorize another person or persons to vote at any such meeting and express such consent or dissent for him or her by proxy. A stockholder may authorize a valid proxy by executing a written instrument signed by such stockholder, or by causing his or her signature to be affixed to such writing by any reasonable means including, but not limited to, by facsimile signature, or by transmitting or authorizing the transmission of a telegram, cablegram or other means of electronic transmission to the person designated as the holder of the proxy, a proxy solicitation firm or a like authorized agent. No such proxy shall be voted or acted upon after the expiration of three years from the date of such proxy, unless such proxy provides for a longer period. A proxy shall be irrevocable if it states that it is irrevocable and if, and only as long as, it is coupled with an interest sufficient in law to support an irrevocable power. A stockholder may revoke any proxy that is not irrevocable by attending the meeting and voting in person or by filing an instrument in writing revoking the proxy or by filing another duly executed proxy bearing a later date with the Secretary. Proxies by electronic transmission must either set forth or
5
be submitted with information from which it can be determined that the electronic transmission was authorized by the stockholder. Any copy, facsimile telecommunication or other reliable reproduction of a writing or transmission created pursuant to this section may be substituted or used in lieu of the original writing or transmission for any and all purposes for which the original writing or transmission could be used, provided that such copy, facsimile telecommunication or other reproduction shall be a complete reproduction of the entire original writing or transmission.
Section 1.12 No Action by Written Consent. Any action required or permitted to be taken by stockholders of the Corporation must be effected at a meeting of the stockholders of the Corporation and may not be effected by written consent in lieu of a meeting.
Section 1.13 Organization; Procedure. At every meeting of stockholders, the Chairman (or, in the event of his or her absence or disability, the person whom the Board of Director designates, or, in the event of his or her absence or disability or the inability of the Board of Directors to designate a person, a presiding officer chosen by a majority of the stockholders present in person or by proxy) shall act as chairman of the meeting. The Secretary, or in the event of his or her absence or disability, an appointee of the chairman of the meeting, shall act as Secretary of the meeting. The order of business and all other matters of procedure at every meeting of stockholders may be determined by the chairman of the meeting.
Section 1.14 Inspectors of Election. The Corporation may, and shall if required by law, in advance of any meeting of stockholders, appoint one or more inspectors of election, who may be employees of the Corporation, to act at the meeting or any adjournment thereof and to make a written report thereof. The Corporation may designate one or more persons as alternate inspectors to replace any inspector who fails to act. In the event that no inspector so appointed or designated is able to act at a meeting of stockholders, the person presiding at the meeting shall appoint one or more inspectors to act at the meeting. Each inspector, before entering upon the discharge of his or her duties, shall take and sign an oath to execute faithfully the duties of inspector with strict impartiality and according to the best of his or her ability. The inspector or inspectors so appointed or designated shall (a) ascertain the number of shares of capital stock of the Corporation outstanding and the voting power of each such share, (b) determine the shares of capital stock of the Corporation represented at the meeting and the validity of proxies and ballots, (c) count all votes and ballots, (d) determine and retain for a reasonable period a record of the disposition of any challenges made to any determination by the inspectors and (e) certify their determination of the number of shares of capital stock of the Corporation represented at the meeting and such inspectors count of all votes and ballots. Such certification and report shall specify such other information as may be required by law. In determining the validity and counting of proxies and ballots cast at any meeting of stockholders of the Corporation, the inspectors may consider such information as is permitted by applicable law. No person who is a candidate for an office at an election may serve as an inspector at such election.
Section 1.15 Conduct of Meetings. The Board of Directors may adopt by resolution such rules and regulations for the conduct of the meeting of stockholders as it shall deem appropriate. Except to the extent inconsistent with such rules and regulations as adopted by the Board of Directors, the person presiding over any meeting of stockholders shall have the right and authority to convene and to adjourn the meeting, to prescribe such rules, regulations and procedures and to do all such acts as, in the judgment of such presiding person, are appropriate
6
for the proper conduct of the meeting. Such rules, regulations or procedures, whether adopted by the Board of Directors or prescribed by the presiding person of the meeting, may include, without limitation, the following: (a) the establishment of an agenda or order of business for the meeting; (b) the determination of when the polls shall open and close for any given matter to be voted on at the meeting, (c) rules and procedures for maintaining order at the meeting and the safety of those present; (d) limitations on attendance at or participation in the meeting to stockholders of record of the Corporation, their duly authorized and constituted proxies or such other persons as the presiding person of the meeting shall determine; (e) restrictions on entry to the meeting after the time fixed for the commencement thereof; and (f) limitations on the time allotted to questions or comments by participants. The presiding person at any meeting of stockholders, in addition to making any other determinations that may be appropriate to the conduct of the meeting, shall, if the facts warrant, determine and declare to the meeting that a matter or business was not properly brought before the meeting and if such presiding person should so determine, such presiding person shall so declare to the meeting and any such matter or business not properly brought before the meeting shall not be transacted or considered. Unless and to the extent determined by the Board of Directors or the person presiding over the meeting, meetings of stockholders shall not be required to be held in accordance with the rules of parliamentary procedure.
ARTICLE II
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Section 2.01 General Powers. The business and affairs of the Corporation shall be managed under the direction of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors may exercise all such authority and powers of the Corporation and do all such lawful acts and things as are not by the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the DGCL) or the Charter directed or required to be exercised or done by the stockholders. All matters shall be determined by the vote of a majority of the directors present at a duly convened meeting of the Board of Directors, except as otherwise provided by these Bylaws or required by the Charter or the DGCL.
Section 2.02 Number, Election and Term of Office. The number of directors which shall constitute the Board of Directors shall be fixed from time to time by resolution adopted by the affirmative vote of a majority of the total number of directors then in office. The directors shall be elected by a plurality of the votes of the shares present in person or represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote in the election of directors; provided that, whenever the holders of any class or series of capital stock of the Corporation are entitled to elect one or more directors pursuant to the provisions of the Charter (including, but not limited to, any duly authorized certificate of designation), such directors shall be elected by a plurality of the votes of such class or series present in person or represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote in the election of such directors. Directors need not be stockholders to be qualified for election or service as a director of the Corporation.
Section 2.03 Resignations. Any director may resign at any time by submitting an electronic transmission or by delivering a written notice of resignation, signed by such director, to the Chairman or the Secretary. Unless otherwise specified therein, such resignation shall take effect at the time therein specified or, if no time is specified, immediately; and, unless otherwise specified in such notice, the acceptance of such resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective.
7
Section 2.04 Removal of Directors; Vacancies. Directors may be removed from office only for cause and, in addition to any vote required by law, the affirmative vote of the holders of at least two-thirds of the voting power of all then outstanding shares of capital stock of the Corporation entitled to vote generally in an election of directors, voting together as a single class, shall be required to effect such removal. Director vacancies may be filled as set forth in the Charter.
Section 2.05 Annual and Regular Meetings. The annual meeting of the Board of Directors for the purpose of electing officers and for the transaction of such other business as may come before the meeting shall be held as soon as possible following adjournment of the annual meeting of the stockholders at the place of such annual meeting of the stockholders. Notice of such annual meeting of the Board of Directors need not be given. The Board of Directors from time to time may by resolution provide for the holding of regular meetings and fix the place (which may be within or without the State of Delaware) and the date and hour of such meetings. Notice of regular meetings need not be given.
Section 2.06 Special Meetings. Special meetings of the Board of Directors shall be held whenever called by the Chairman of the Board of Directors, majority of the Board of Directors or the Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation, at such place (within or without the State of Delaware), date and hour as may be specified in the respective notices or waivers of notice of such meetings. Special meetings of the Board of Directors may be called on twenty-four (24) hours notice, if notice is given to each director personally or by telephone or electronic transmission, or on five (5) days notice, if notice is mailed to each director, addressed to him or her at his or her usual place of business. Neither the business to be transacted at, nor the purpose of, any special meeting of the Board of Directors need be specified in the notice or waiver of notice of such meeting. Notice of any special meeting need not be given to any director who attends such meeting without protesting the lack of notice to him or her, prior to or at the commencement of such meeting, or to any director who submits a signed waiver of notice, whether before or after such meeting, and any business may be transacted thereat.
Section 2.07 Quorum and Manner of Acting. A majority of the entire Board of Directors shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at any meeting of the Board of Directors and, except as otherwise expressly required by the DGCL or the Charter or these Bylaws, the act of a majority of the directors present at any meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the Board of Directors. In the absence of a quorum at any meeting of the Board of Directors, a majority of the directors present thereat may adjourn such meeting to another time and place. Notice of the time and place of any such adjourned meeting shall be given to the directors unless such time and place were announced at the meeting at which the adjournment was taken, to the other directors. At any adjourned meeting at which a quorum is present, any business may be transacted that might have been transacted at the meeting as originally called. The directors shall act only as a Board of Directors and the individual directors shall have no power as such.
8
Section 2.08 Action Without a Meeting. Any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of the Board of Directors or of any committee thereof may be taken without a meeting if a written consent, setting forth the action so taken, is signed by all the members of the Board of Directors or the committee, as the case may be, and such written consent shall have the same force and effect as a unanimous vote at a meeting of the Board of Directors. An electronic transmission by a director consenting to an action to be taken and transmitted by a director is considered written, signed and dated for the purposes of this article if the transmission sets forth or is delivered with information from which the Corporation can determine that the transmission was transmitted by the director and the date on which the director transmitted the transmission.
Section 2.09 Action by Telephonic Communications. Members of the Board of Directors may participate in a meeting of the Board of Directors by means of conference telephone or similar communications equipment by means of which all persons participating in the meeting can hear one another, and participation in a meeting pursuant to this provision shall constitute presence in person at such meeting.
Section 2.10 Compensation. The amount, if any, which each director shall be entitled to receive as compensation for his or her services as such shall be fixed from time to time by resolution of the Board of Directors. The directors may be paid their expenses, if any, of attendance at each meeting of the Board of Directors and may be paid a fixed sum for attendance at each meeting of the Board of Directors or a stated salary for service as director, payable in cash or securities of the Company. No such payment shall preclude any director from serving the Corporation in any other capacity and receiving compensation therefor. Members of special or standing committees may be allowed like compensation for service as committee members.
Section 2.11 Interested Directors. No contract or transaction between the Corporation and one or more of its directors or officers, or between the Corporation and any other corporation, partnership, association or other organization in which one or more of its directors or officers are directors or officers or have a financial interest, shall be void or voidable solely for this reason, or solely because the director or officer is present at or participates in the meeting of the Board of Directors or committee thereof that authorizes the contract or transaction, or solely because any such directors or officers vote is counted for such purpose if: (a) the material facts as to the directors or officers relationship or interest and as to the contract or transaction are disclosed or are known to the Board of Directors or the committee, and the Board of Directors or committee in good faith authorizes the contract or transaction by the affirmative votes of a majority of the disinterested directors, even though the disinterested directors be less than a quorum; (b) the material facts as to the directors or officers relationship or interest and as to the contract or transaction are disclosed or are known to the stockholders entitled to vote thereon, and the contract or transaction is specifically approved in good faith by vote of the stockholders; or (c) the contract or transaction is fair as to the Corporation as of the time it is authorized, approved or ratified by the Board of Directors, a committee thereof or the stockholders. Common or interested directors may be counted in determining the presence of a quorum at a meeting of the Board of Directors or of a committee that authorizes the contract or transaction.
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ARTICLE III
COMMITTEES
Section 3.01 Committees of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors may designate from among its members one or more committees, each of which shall be composed of one or more of its members, and may designate one or more of its members as alternate members of any committee, who may, subject to any limitations imposed by the Board of Directors, replace absent or disqualified members at any meeting of that committee. Any such committee, to the extent provided in the resolution of the Board of Directors designating the committee or in the Charter or these Bylaws, shall have and may exercise all of the authority of the Board of Directors, except where action of the Board of Directors is required by the DGCL or by the Charter. Any member of a committee of the Board of Directors may be removed, for or without cause, by the affirmative vote of a majority of the whole Board of Directors. If any vacancy or vacancies occur in a committee of the Board of Directors caused by death, resignation, retirement, disqualification, removal from office or otherwise, the vacancy or vacancies shall be filled by the affirmative vote of a majority of the whole Board of Directors. Such committee or committees shall have such name or names as may be designated by the Board of Directors and shall keep regular minutes of their proceedings and report the same to the Board of Directors when required.
Section 3.02 Conduct of Meetings. Each committee may determine the procedural rules for meeting and conducting its business and shall act in accordance therewith, except as otherwise provided herein or required by the DGCL. Except as otherwise provided by these Bylaws, in the absence of such rules each committee shall conduct its business in the same manner as the Board of Directors conducts its business pursuant to Article II of these Bylaws. Adequate provision shall be made for notice to members of all meetings; one third (1/3) of the members shall constitute a quorum unless the committee shall consist of one (1) or two (2) members, in which event one (1) member shall constitute a quorum; and all matters shall be determined by a majority vote of the members present. Action may be taken by any committee without a meeting if all members thereof consent thereto in writing or by electronic transmission, and the writing or writings or transmission or transmissions are filed with the minutes of the proceedings of the committee. Such filing shall be in paper form if the minutes are maintained in paper form and shall be in electronic form if the minutes are maintained in electronic form.
Section 3.03 Audit Committee. The Board of Directors shall have an Audit Committee composed of three or more directors, each of whom shall satisfy any securities exchange independence requirements then in effect and applicable to the Corporation. The responsibilities of the Audit Committee shall be stated in the Audit Committees charter, as approved by the Board of Directors.
Section 3.04 Compensation Committee. The Board of Directors shall have a Compensation Committee composed of two or more directors, each of whom shall satisfy any securities exchange independence requirements then in effect and applicable to the Corporation. The responsibilities of the Compensation Committee shall be stated in the Compensation Committees charter, as approved by the Board of Directors.
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Section 3.05 Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. The Board of Directors shall have a Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee composed of two or more directors, each of whom shall satisfy any securities exchange independence requirements then in effect and applicable to the Corporation. The responsibilities of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee shall be stated in the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committees charter, as approved by the Board of Directors.
ARTICLE IV
OFFICERS
Section 4.01 Number. The officers of the Corporation shall be chosen by the Board of Directors and shall initially be a Chief Executive Officer, a Secretary and a Treasurer. The Board of Directors also may elect a President, one or more Vice Presidents, Assistant Secretaries and Assistant Treasurers in such numbers as the Board of Directors may determine. Any number of offices may be held by the same person. No officer need be a director of the Corporation.
Section 4.02 Appointment of Officers. The Board shall appoint the officers of the Corporation, subject to the rights, if any, of an officer under any contract of employment. The Board of Directors may appoint, or empower the Chief Executive Officer to appoint, such other subordinate officers and agents as the business of the Corporation may require. Each of such officers and agents shall hold office for such period, have such authority, and perform such duties as are provided in these Bylaws or as the Board of Directors may from time to time determine.
Section 4.03 Salaries. The salaries of all officers and agents of the Corporation shall be fixed by the Board of Directors.
Section 4.04 Removal and Resignation; Vacancies. Any officer may be removed for or without cause at any time by the Board of Directors. Any officer may resign at any time by delivering notice of resignation, either in writing signed by such officer or by electronic transmission, to the Board of Directors or the Chief Executive Officer. Unless otherwise specified therein, such resignation shall take effect upon delivery. Any vacancy occurring in any office of the Corporation by death, resignation, removal or otherwise, shall be filled by the Board of Directors in accordance with Section 4.02 hereof.
Section 4.05 Authority and Duties of Officers. All officers of the Corporation shall respectively have such authority and perform such duties in the management of the business of the Corporation as may be designated from time to time by the Board of Directors or the stockholders and, to the extent not so provided, as generally pertain to their respective offices, subject to the control of the Board of Directors.
Section 4.06 Representation of Shares of Other Corporations. The Chairman of the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer, any Vice President, the Treasurer, the Secretary of this Corporation, or any other person authorized by the Board of Directors or the Chief Executive Officer, is authorized to vote, represent and exercise on behalf of this Corporation all rights incident to any and all shares of any other corporation or corporations standing in the name
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of this Corporation. The authority granted herein may be exercised either by such person directly or by any other person authorized to do so by proxy or power of attorney duly executed by such person having the authority.
ARTICLE V
CAPITAL STOCK
Section 5.01 Form of Certificates. The stock of the Corporation may be either certificated, uncertificated or a combination thereof. The Board of Directors may provide by resolution or resolutions that some or all of any or all classes or series of the Corporations stock may be uncertificated shares. Any such resolution shall not apply to shares represented by a certificate until such certificate is surrendered to the Corporation (or the Corporations transfer agent or registrar, as the case may be). Notwithstanding the adoption of such resolution by the Board of Directors, every holder of stock represented by certificates and, upon request to the Corporation or the Corporations transfer agent or registrar, any holder of uncertificated shares, shall be entitled to have a certificate, in such form as shall be approved by the Board of Directors, certifying the number of shares of the Corporation owned by him, her or it. The certificates representing shares shall be signed in the name of the Corporation by the Chairman or Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors, or the Chief Executive Officer, President or a Vice President, and by the Treasurer or an Assistant Treasurer, or the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary, and sealed with the seal of the Corporation (which seal may be a facsimile, engraved or printed); provided, however, that where any such certificate is countersigned by a transfer agent, or is registered by a registrar (other than the Corporation or one of its employees), the signatures of the Chairman, Vice Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, President, Vice President, Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer, Secretary or Assistant Secretary, as the case may be, upon such certificates may be facsimiles, engraved or printed. In case any officer who shall have signed any such certificate shall have ceased to be such officer before such certificate shall be issued, it may nevertheless be issued by the Corporation with the same effect as if such officer were still in office at the date of their issue. When the Corporation is authorized to issue shares of more than one class, there shall be set forth upon the face or back of the certificate (or the certificate shall have a statement that the Corporation will furnish to any stockholder upon request and without charge) a full statement of the designation, relative rights, preferences and limitations of the shares of each separate class, or of the different shares within each class, authorized to be issued and, if the Corporation is authorized to issue any class of preferred shares in series, the designation, relative rights, preferences and limitations of each such series so far as the same have been fixed and the authority of the Board of Directors to designate and fix the relative rights, preferences and limitations of other series.
Section 5.02 Lost, Destroyed or Mutilated Certificates. The holder of any certificate representing shares of the Corporation shall immediately notify the Corporation of any loss, destruction or mutilation of such certificate, and the Corporation may issue a new certificate (or uncertificated shares if the shares represented by such certificate have been designated as uncertificated shares in accordance with Section 5.01) in the place of any certificate theretofore issued by it which the owner thereof shall allege to have been lost or destroyed or which shall have been mutilated. The Board of Directors may, in its discretion, require such owner or his legal representatives to provide reasonable evidence of such loss, destruction or mutilation and to
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give to the Corporation a bond in such sum, limited or unlimited, and in such form and with such surety or sureties as the Board of Directors in its absolute discretion shall determine, to indemnify the Corporation and any transfer agent or registrar against any claim that may be made against it on account of the alleged loss or destruction of any such certificate, or the issuance of such new certificate (or uncertificated shares).
Section 5.03 Books of Account and Record of Stockholders. There shall be kept correct and complete books and records of account of all the business and transactions of the Corporation. There shall also be kept, at the office of the Corporation, or at the office of its transfer agent, a record containing the names and addresses of all stockholders of the Corporation, the number of shares held by each, and the dates when they became the holders of record thereof.
Section 5.04 Transfer of Stock. Except as otherwise established by rules and regulations adopted by the Board of Directors, and subject to applicable law, transfers of shares of the Corporation shall be made on the records of the Corporation: (a) in the case of shares represented by a certificate, by the surrender to the Corporation or its transfer agent of the certificate representing such shares properly endorsed or accompanied by a written assignment or power of attorney properly executed, and with such proof of authority or authenticity of signature as the Corporation or its transfer agent may reasonably require; and (b) in the case of uncertificated shares, upon the receipt of proper transfer instructions from the registered owner thereof and, in each case, after payment of all taxes thereon. The person in whose name shares shall stand on the record of stockholders of the Corporation shall be deemed the owner thereof for all purposes as regards the Corporation. Whenever any transfer of shares shall be made for collateral security and not absolutely and written notice thereof shall be given to the Secretary or to a transfer agent, such fact shall be noted on the records of the Corporation.
Section 5.05 Record Date.
(a) The Board of Directors may fix, in advance, a date not more than sixty (60) nor less than ten (10) days before the date when fixed for the holding of any meeting of the stockholders or before the last day on which the consent or dissent of the stockholders may be effectively expressed for any purpose without a meeting, as the time as of which the stockholders entitled to notice of and to vote at such meeting or whose consent or dissent is required or may be expressed for any purpose, as the case may be, shall be determined, and all persons who were stockholders of record of voting shares at such time, and no others, shall be entitled to notice of and to vote at such meeting or to express their consent or dissent, as the case may be.
(b) The Board of Directors may fix, in advance, a date not more than sixty (60) nor less than ten (10) days preceding the date fixed for the payment of any dividend or the making of any distribution or the allotment of rights to subscribe for securities of the Corporation, or for the delivery of evidences of rights or evidences of interests arising out of any change, conversion or exchange of shares or other securities, as the record date for the determination of the stockholders entitled to receive any such dividend, distribution, allotment, rights or interests, and in such case only the stockholders of record at the time so fixed shall be entitled to receive such dividend, distribution, allotment, rights or interests. If no such record date is fixed, the record date for determining stockholders for any such purpose shall be at the close of business on the day on which the Board of Directors adopts the applicable resolution.
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Section 5.06 Transfer Agent and Registrar. The Board of Directors may appoint one or more transfer agents and one or more registrars, and may require all certificates representing shares to bear the signature of any such transfer agents or registrars.
Section 5.07 Regulations. The Board of Directors may make such additional rules and regulations, not inconsistent with these Bylaws, as it may deem expedient concerning the issue, transfer and registration of certificates for shares of the Corporation.
ARTICLE VI
INDEMNIFICATION
Section 6.01 Indemnification of Directors and Officers. In the event a person (a Covered Person) was, is or becomes a party to or witness or other participant in, or is threatened to be made a party to or witness or other participant in any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative, by reason of the fact that such person is or was a director or officer of the Corporation, or is or was a director or officer of the Corporation serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, enterprise or nonprofit entity, including service with respect to employee benefit plans, the Corporation shall indemnify such person to the fullest extent permitted by law against any and all expenses (including attorneys fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by such Covered Person in connection with such action, suit or proceeding. The termination of any action, suit or proceeding by judgment, order, settlement, conviction, or upon a plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent, shall not, of itself, create a presumption that the Covered Person did not act in good faith and in a manner which such Covered Person reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had reasonable cause to believe that such persons conduct was unlawful. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, except as otherwise provided in Section 6.02, the Corporation shall be required to indemnify a Covered Person in connection with a proceeding (or part thereof) commenced by such Covered Person only if the commencement of such proceeding (or part thereof) by the Covered Person was authorized in the specific case by the Board of Directors.
Section 6.02 Procedure for Indemnification of Directors. Any indemnification of a Covered Person of the Corporation under Section 6.01 or advancement of expenses under Section 6.03 shall be made promptly, and in any event within thirty (30) days, upon the written request of the Covered Person. If a determination by the Corporation that the Covered Person is entitled to indemnification or advancement pursuant to this Article VI is required, and the Corporation fails to respond within sixty (60) days to a written request for indemnity or advancement, the Corporation shall be deemed to have approved the request. If the Corporation denies a written request for indemnification or advancing of expenses, in whole or in part, or if payment in full pursuant to such request is not made within thirty (30) days, the right to indemnification or advances as granted by this Article VI shall be enforceable by the Covered
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Person in any court of competent jurisdiction. Such Covered Persons costs and expenses incurred in connection with successfully establishing his or her right to indemnification or advancement of expenses, in whole or in part, in any such action shall also be indemnified by the Corporation. It shall be a defense to any such action (other than an action brought to enforce a claim for expenses incurred in defending any proceeding in advance of its final disposition where the required undertaking, if any, has been tendered to the Corporation) that the claimant has not met the standards of conduct which make it permissible under the DGCL for the Corporation to indemnify the claimant for the amount claimed, but the burden of such defense shall be on the Corporation. Neither the failure of the Corporation (including the Board of Directors, independent legal counsel or its stockholders) to have made a determination prior to the commencement of such action that indemnification of the claimant is proper in the circumstances because he or she has met the applicable standard of conduct set forth in the DGCL, nor an actual determination by the Corporation (including the Board of Directors, independent legal counsel, or its stockholders) that the claimant has not met such applicable standard of conduct, shall be a defense to the action or create a presumption that the claimant has not met the applicable standard of conduct.
Section 6.03 Expenses Payable in Advance. Expenses (including attorneys fees) incurred by a Covered Person in defending any civil, criminal, administrative or investigative action, suit or proceeding shall, to the extent permitted by law, be paid by the Corporation in advance of the final disposition of such action, suit or proceeding upon receipt of an undertaking by or on behalf of such Covered Person to repay such amount if it shall ultimately be determined that such person is not entitled to be indemnified by the Corporation as authorized in this Article VI. Such expenses (including attorneys fees) incurred by Covered Persons who are former directors or officers may be so paid upon such terms and conditions, if any, as the Corporation deems appropriate.
Section 6.04 Nonexclusivity of Indemnification and Advancement of Expenses. The indemnification and advancement of expenses provided by, or granted pursuant to, this Article VI shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which those seeking indemnification or advancement of expenses may be entitled under the Charter, these Bylaws, agreement, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise, both as to action in such Covered Persons official capacity and as to action in another capacity while holding such office, it being the policy of the Corporation that indemnification of Covered Persons shall be made to the fullest extent permitted by law. The provisions of this Article VI shall not be deemed to preclude the indemnification of any person who is not specified in Section 6.01 but whom the Corporation has the power or obligation to indemnify under the provisions of the DGCL, or otherwise.
Section 6.05 Insurance. The Corporation may purchase or maintain insurance on behalf of any Covered Person against any liability asserted against him or her and incurred by him or her in such a capacity or arising out of his or her status as a Covered Person, whether or not the Corporation would have the power to indemnify him or her against the liability under the DGCL or these Bylaws; provided, however, that if the insurance or other arrangement is with a person or entity that is not regularly engaged in the business of providing insurance coverage, the insurance or arrangement may provide for payment of a liability with respect to which the Corporation would not have the power to indemnify the person only if including coverage for the additional liability has been approved by the stockholders of the Corporation. Without limiting
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the power of the Corporation to procure or maintain any kind of insurance or arrangement, the Corporation may, for the benefit of persons indemnified by the Corporation, (a) create a trust fund, (b) establish any form of self-insurance, (c) secure its indemnification obligation by grant of any security interest or other lien on the assets of the Corporation or (d) establish a letter of credit, guaranty or surety arrangement. Any such insurance or other arrangement may be procured, maintained or established within the Corporation or its affiliates or with any insurer or other person deemed appropriate by the Board of Directors regardless of whether all or part of the stock or other securities thereof are owned in whole or in part by the Corporation. In the absence of fraud, the judgment of the Board of Directors as to the terms and conditions of such insurance or other arrangement and the identity of the insurer or other person participating in an arrangement shall be conclusive, and the insurance or arrangement shall not be voidable and shall not subject the directors approving the insurance or arrangement to liability, on any ground, regardless of whether directors participating in approving such insurance or other arrangement shall be beneficiaries thereof.
Section 6.06 Certain Definitions. For purposes of this Article VI, references to the Corporation shall include, in addition to the resulting corporation, any constituent corporation (including any constituent of a constituent) absorbed in a consolidation or merger which, if its separate existence had continued, would have had power and authority to indemnify its directors and officers, so that any person who is or was a director or officer of such constituent corporation, or is or was a director or officer of such constituent corporation serving at the request of such constituent corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, shall stand in the same position under the provisions of this Article VI with respect to the resulting or surviving corporation as such person would have with respect to such constituent corporation if its separate existence had continued. For purposes of this Article VI, references to fines shall include any excise taxes assessed on a person with respect to an employee benefit plan; and references to serving at the request of the Corporation shall include any service as a director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation which imposes duties on, or involves services by, such director or officer with respect to an employee benefit plan, its participants or beneficiaries; and a person who acted in good faith and in a manner such person reasonably believed to be in the interest of the participants and beneficiaries of an employee benefit plan shall be deemed to have acted in a manner not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation as referred to in this Article VI.
Section 6.07 Survival of Indemnification and Advancement of Expenses. The indemnification and advancement of expenses provided by, or granted pursuant to, this Article VI shall, unless otherwise provided when authorized or ratified, continue as to a person who has ceased to be a director or officer and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors and administrators of such a person.
Section 6.08 Other Indemnification and Advancement of Expenses. The Corporation may, to the extent authorized from time to time by the Board of Directors, provide rights to indemnification and to the advancement of expenses to employees and agents of the Corporation similar to those conferred in this Article VI to Covered Persons. This Article VI shall not limit the right of the Corporation, to the extent and in the manner permitted by law, to indemnify and advance expenses to persons other than Covered Persons and employees and agents of the Corporation when and as authorized by appropriate corporate action.
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Section 6.09 Amendment or Repeal. Any right to indemnification or to advancement of expenses of any Covered Person arising hereunder shall not be eliminated or impaired by an amendment to or repeal of these Bylaws after the occurrence of the act or omission that is the subject of the civil, criminal, administrative or investigative, action, suit or proceeding for which indemnification or advancement of expenses is sought.
Section 6.10 Contract Rights. The provisions of this Article VI shall be deemed to be a contract right between the Corporation and each Covered Person who serves in any such capacity at any time while this Article VI and the relevant provisions of the DGCL or other applicable law are in effect, and any repeal or modification of this Article VI or any such law shall not affect any rights or obligations then existing with respect to any state of facts or proceeding then existing.
Section 6.11 Other Sources. The Corporations obligation, if any, to indemnify or advance expenses to any Covered Person, or any officer, employee or agent of the Corporation pursuant to Section 6.08 who was or is serving at its request as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, enterprise or nonprofit entity shall be reduced by any such amount such Covered Person or such officer, employee or agent of the Corporation may collect as indemnification or advancement of expenses from such other corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, enterprise or nonprofit enterprise.
ARTICLE VII
OFFICES
Section 7.01 Registered Office. The registered office of the Corporation in the State of Delaware shall be located at The Corporation Trust Company, Corporation Trust Center, 1209 Orange Street, Wilmington, Delaware 19801.
Section 7.02 Other Offices. The Corporation may maintain offices or places of business at such other locations within or without the State of Delaware as the Board of Directors may from time to time determine or as the business of the Corporation may require.
ARTICLE VIII
NOTICES
Section 8.01 Notices. Whenever written notice is required by the DGCL, the Charter or these Bylaws, to be given to any director, member of a committee or stockholder, such notice may be given by mail, addressed to such director, member of a committee or stockholder, at such persons address as it appears on the records of the Corporation, with postage thereon prepaid, and such notice shall be deemed to be given at the time when the same shall be deposited in the United States mail. Without limiting the manner by which notice otherwise may be given effectively to stockholders, and except as prohibited by applicable law, any notice to stockholders given by the Corporation under any provision of applicable law, the Charter or these Bylaws shall be effective if given by a single written notice to stockholders who share an address if consented to by the stockholders at that address to whom such notice is given. Any
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such consent shall be revocable by the stockholder by written notice to the Corporation. Any stockholder who fails to object in writing to the Corporation, within sixty (60) days of having been given written notice by the Corporation of its intention to send the single notice permitted under this Section 8.01, shall be deemed to have consented to receiving such single written notice. Subject to the requirements of applicable law, written notice may also be given personally or by e-mail, facsimile or other means of electronic transmission.
Section 8.02 Waivers of Notice. Whenever any notice is required by applicable law, the Charter or these Bylaws, to be given to any director, member of a committee or stockholder, a waiver thereof in writing, signed by the person or persons entitled to notice, or a waiver by electronic transmission by the person or persons entitled to notice, whether before or after the time stated therein, shall be deemed equivalent thereto. Attendance of a person at a meeting, present in person or represented by proxy, shall constitute a waiver of notice of such meeting, except where the person attends the meeting for the express purpose of objecting at the beginning of the meeting to the transaction of any business because the meeting is not lawfully called or convened. Neither the business to be transacted at, nor the purpose of, any annual or special meeting of stockholders or any regular or special meeting of the directors or members of a committee of directors need be specified in any written waiver of notice unless so required by the DGCL, the Charter or these Bylaws.
ARTICLE IX
GENERAL PROVISIONS
Section 9.01 Dividends. Subject to the DGCL and the Charter, dividends upon the shares of the Corporation may be declared by the Board of Directors at any regular or special meeting. Dividends may be paid in cash, in property or in shares of the Corporations capital stock, unless otherwise provided by the DGCL or the Charter.
Section 9.02 Reserves. There may be set aside out of any funds of the Corporation available for dividends such sum or sums as the Board of Directors from time to time, in its absolute discretion, thinks proper as a reserve or reserves to meet contingencies, or for equalizing dividends, or for repairing or maintaining any property of the Corporation or for such other purpose as the Board of Directors shall think conducive to the interest of the Corporation, and the Board of Directors may similarly modify or abolish any such reserve.
Section 9.03 Execution of Instruments. The Chief Executive Officer, any Vice President, the Secretary or the Treasurer may enter into any contract or execute and deliver any instrument in the name and on behalf of the Corporation. The Board of Directors may authorize any other officer or agent to enter into any contract or execute and deliver any instrument in the name and on behalf of the Corporation. Any such authorization must be in writing or by electronic transmission and may be general or limited to specific contracts or instruments.
Section 9.04 Corporate Indebtedness. No loan shall be contracted on behalf of the Corporation, and no evidence of indebtedness shall be issued in its name, unless authorized by the Board of Directors or such officers as may be authorized by the Board of Directors. Such authorization may be general or confined to specific instances. Loans so authorized may be
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effected at any time for the Corporation from any bank, trust company or other institution, or from any firm, corporation or individual. All bonds, debentures, notes and other obligations or evidences of indebtedness of the Corporation issued for such loans shall be made, executed and delivered as the Board of Directors or the Chief Executive Officer shall authorize. When so authorized by the Board of Directors or the Chief Executive Officer, any part of or all the properties, including contract rights, assets, business or good will of the Corporation, whether then owned or thereafter acquired, may be mortgaged, pledged, hypothecated or conveyed or assigned in trust as security for the payment of such bonds, debentures, notes and other obligations or evidences of indebtedness of the Corporation, and of the interest thereon, by instruments executed and delivered in the name of the Corporation.
Section 9.05 Deposits. Any funds of the Corporation may be deposited from time to time in such banks, trust companies or other depositaries as may be determined by the Board of Directors or the Chief Executive Officer, or by such officers or agents as may be authorized by the Board of Directors or the Chief Executive Officer to make such determination.
Section 9.06 Checks. All checks or demands for money and notes of the Corporation shall be signed by such officer or officers or such agent or agents of the Corporation, and in such manner, as the Board of Directors or the Chief Executive Officer from time to time may determine.
Section 9.07 Sale, Transfer, etc. of Securities. To the extent authorized by the Board of Directors or by the Chief Executive Officer, any Vice President, the Secretary or the Treasurer or any other officers designated by the Board of Directors or the Chief Executive Officer may sell, transfer, endorse, and assign any shares of stock, bonds or other securities owned by or held in the name of the Corporation, and may make, execute and deliver in the name of the Corporation, under its corporate seal, any instruments that may be appropriate to effect any such sale, transfer, endorsement or assignment.
Section 9.08 Voting as Stockholder. Unless otherwise determined by resolution of the Board of Directors, the Chairman, the Chief Executive Officer or any Vice President shall have full power and authority on behalf of the Corporation to attend any meeting of stockholders of any corporation in which the Corporation may hold stock, and to act, vote (or execute proxies to vote) and exercise in person or by proxy all other rights, powers and privileges incident to the ownership of such stock. Such officers acting on behalf of the Corporation shall have full power and authority to execute any instrument expressing consent to or dissent from any action of any such corporation without a meeting. The Board of Directors may by resolution from time to time confer such power and authority upon any other person or persons.
Section 9.09 Fiscal Year. The fiscal year of the Corporation shall be fixed, and once fixed, may thereafter be changed, by resolution of the Board of Directors.
Section 9.10 Seal. The seal of the Corporation shall be circular in form and shall contain the name of the Corporation, the year of its incorporation and the words Corporate Seal and Delaware. The form of such seal shall be subject to alteration by the Board of Directors. The seal may be used by causing it or a facsimile thereof to be impressed, affixed or reproduced, or may be used in any other lawful manner.
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Section 9.11 Books and Records; Inspection. Except to the extent otherwise required by law, the books and records of the Corporation shall be kept at such place or places within or without the State of Delaware as may be determined from time to time by the Board of Directors.
Section 9.12 Choice of Forum. Unless the Corporation consents in writing to the selection of an alternative forum, the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware shall be the sole and exclusive forum for (i) any derivative action or proceeding brought on behalf of the Corporation, (ii) any action asserting a claim for breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation to the Corporation or the Corporations stockholders, (iii) any action asserting a claim arising pursuant to any provision of the DGCL, the Certificate of Incorporation or the Bylaws or (iv) any action asserting a claim governed by the internal affairs doctrine, in each case subject to said Court of Chancery having personal jurisdiction over the indispensable parties named as defendants therein.
ARTICLE X
FORCE AND EFFECT OF BYLAWS
These Bylaws are subject to the provisions of the DGCL and the Charter. If any provision in these Bylaws is inconsistent with a provision in the DGCL or the Charter, the provision of the DGCL or the Charter shall govern.
ARTICLE XI
AMENDMENTS
These Bylaws may be amended, altered or repealed and new Bylaws adopted by resolution of the Board of Directors. The affirmative vote of at least a majority of the entire Board of Directors or the affirmative vote of the holders of at least two-thirds of the votes that all the Corporations stockholders would be entitled to cast in the election of Directors shall be required to adopt, amend or repeal the Bylaws.
* * *
Adopted: January 25, 2018
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Exhibit 5.1
January 29, 2018
Solid Biosciences Inc.
161 First Street, Third Floor
Cambridge, MA 02142
Re: | Solid Biosciences Inc. Registration Statement on Form S-8 |
Ladies and Gentlemen:
We are acting as counsel to Solid Biosciences Inc., a Delaware corporation (the Company), in connection with the registration statement on Form S-8 (the Registration Statement) to be filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the Commission) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Securities Act), relating to the registration of 5,010,000 shares of common stock, par value $0.001 per share, of the Company (the Shares) under the Solid Biosciences Inc. 2018 Omnibus Incentive Plan (the Plan).
We have examined and relied upon originals or copies, certified or otherwise authenticated to our satisfaction, of all such corporate records, documents, agreements and instruments relating to the Company, and certificates of public officials and of representatives of the Company, and have made such investigations of law, and have discussed with representatives of the Company and such other persons such questions of fact, as we have deemed proper or necessary as a basis for rendering this opinion.
Based upon and subject to the foregoing, we are of the opinion that the Shares will be, when issued and paid for in accordance with the provisions of the Plan and, if applicable, the awards granted thereunder, validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable.
We hereby consent to the filing of this opinion as Exhibit 5.1 to the Registration Statement. In giving the foregoing consent, we do not admit that we are in the category of persons whose consent is required under Section 7 of the Securities Act or the rules and regulations of the SEC promulgated thereunder.
Very truly yours,
/s/ Proskauer Rose LLP
Exhibit 23.1
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in this Registration Statement on Form S-8 of our report dated August 4, 2017 relating to the financial statements of Solid Biosciences LLC, which appears in Solid Biosciences Inc.s Prospectus filed on January 29, 2018 pursuant to Rule 424(b). We also consent to the reference to us under the heading Experts in such Prospectus.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Boston, Massachusetts
January 29, 2018
Exhibit 99.1
SOLID BIOSCIENCES INC.
2018 OMNIBUS INCENTIVE PLAN
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page | ||||||||
ARTICLE I PURPOSE | 1 | |||||||
ARTICLE II DEFINITIONS | 1 | |||||||
2.1 | Acquisition Event |
1 | ||||||
2.2 | Affiliate |
1 | ||||||
2.3 | Appreciation Award |
1 | ||||||
2.4 | Award |
2 | ||||||
2.5 | Board |
2 | ||||||
2.6 | Cause |
2 | ||||||
2.7 | Change in Control |
2 | ||||||
2.8 | Change in Control Price |
3 | ||||||
2.9 | Code |
3 | ||||||
2.10 | Committee |
3 | ||||||
2.11 | Common Stock |
3 | ||||||
2.12 | Company |
3 | ||||||
2.13 | Competitor |
4 | ||||||
2.14 | Consultant |
4 | ||||||
2.15 | Detrimental Activity |
4 | ||||||
2.16 | Disability |
5 | ||||||
2.17 | Disparagement |
5 | ||||||
2.18 | Dividends |
5 | ||||||
2.19 | Effective Date |
5 | ||||||
2.20 | Eligible Employee |
5 | ||||||
2.21 | Exchange Act |
5 | ||||||
2.22 | Exercisable Awards |
5 | ||||||
2.23 | Fair Market Value |
6 | ||||||
2.24 | Family Member |
6 | ||||||
2.25 | Incentive Stock Option |
6 | ||||||
2.26 | Individual Target Award |
6 | ||||||
2.27 | Lead Underwriter |
6 | ||||||
2.28 | Lock-Up Period |
6 | ||||||
2.29 | Non-Employee Director |
6 | ||||||
2.30 | Non-Qualified Stock Option |
6 | ||||||
2.31 | Other Extraordinary Event |
6 | ||||||
2.32 | Other Stock-Based Award |
6 | ||||||
2.33 | Parent |
7 | ||||||
2.34 | Participant |
7 | ||||||
2.35 | Performance-Based Cash Award |
7 | ||||||
2.36 | Performance Criteria |
7 | ||||||
2.37 | Performance Period |
7 | ||||||
2.38 | Performance Share |
7 | ||||||
2.39 | Performance Unit |
7 |
i
2.40 | Person |
7 | ||||||
2.41 | Plan |
7 | ||||||
2.42 | Registration Date |
7 | ||||||
2.43 | Restricted Stock |
7 | ||||||
2.44 | Restriction Period |
8 | ||||||
2.45 | Rule 13d-3 |
8 | ||||||
2.46 | Rule 16b-3 |
8 | ||||||
2.47 | Section 162(m) |
8 | ||||||
2.48 | Section 4.2 Event |
8 | ||||||
2.49 | Section 409A Covered Award |
8 | ||||||
2.50 | Section 409A |
8 | ||||||
2.51 | Securities Act |
8 | ||||||
2.52 | Stock Option or Option |
8 | ||||||
2.53 | Subsidiary |
8 | ||||||
2.54 | Ten Percent Stockholder |
8 | ||||||
2.55 | Termination |
8 | ||||||
2.56 | Termination of Consultancy |
8 | ||||||
2.57 | Termination of Directorship |
9 | ||||||
2.58 | Termination of Employment |
9 | ||||||
2.59 | Transfer |
9 | ||||||
2.60 | Transition Period |
9 | ||||||
ARTICLE III ADMINISTRATION | 10 | |||||||
3.1 | The Committee |
10 | ||||||
3.2 | Grant and Administration of Awards |
10 | ||||||
3.3 | Award Agreements |
11 | ||||||
3.4 | Guidelines |
11 | ||||||
3.5 | Section 162(m) |
11 | ||||||
3.6 | Delegation; Advisors |
11 | ||||||
3.7 | Decisions Final |
11 | ||||||
3.8 | Procedures |
12 | ||||||
3.9 | Liability; Indemnification |
12 | ||||||
ARTICLE IV SHARE LIMITATIONS | 12 | |||||||
4.1 | Shares |
12 | ||||||
4.2 | Changes |
14 | ||||||
4.3 | Minimum Purchase Price |
15 | ||||||
ARTICLE V ELIGIBILITY | 16 | |||||||
5.1 | General Eligibility |
16 | ||||||
5.2 | Incentive Stock Options |
16 | ||||||
5.3 | General Requirement |
16 |
ii
ARTICLE VI STOCK OPTIONS | 16 | |||||||
6.1 | Stock Options |
16 | ||||||
6.2 | Incentive Stock Options |
17 | ||||||
6.3 | Terms of Stock Options |
17 | ||||||
ARTICLE VII RESTRICTED STOCK | 20 | |||||||
7.1 | Awards of Restricted Stock |
20 | ||||||
7.2 | Awards and Certificates |
20 | ||||||
7.3 | Restrictions and Conditions |
21 | ||||||
ARTICLE VIII OTHER STOCK-BASED AWARDS | 22 | |||||||
8.1 | Other Awards |
22 | ||||||
8.2 | Terms and Conditions |
23 | ||||||
ARTICLE IX PERFORMANCE-BASED CASH AWARDS | 24 | |||||||
9.1 | Performance-Based Cash Awards |
24 | ||||||
9.2 | Terms and Conditions |
25 | ||||||
ARTICLE X CHANGE IN CONTROL PROVISIONS | 27 | |||||||
ARTICLE XI TERMINATION OR AMENDMENT OF PLAN | 28 | |||||||
ARTICLE XII UNFUNDED PLAN | 28 | |||||||
ARTICLE XIII GENERAL PROVISIONS | 29 | |||||||
13.1 | Legend |
29 | ||||||
13.2 | Other Plans |
29 | ||||||
13.3 | No Right to Employment, Consultancy, or Directorship |
29 | ||||||
13.4 | Withholding of Taxes |
29 | ||||||
13.5 | No Assignment of Benefits |
30 | ||||||
13.6 | Listing and Other Conditions |
30 | ||||||
13.7 | Governing Law |
30 | ||||||
13.8 | Construction |
30 | ||||||
13.9 | No Acquired Rights |
31 | ||||||
13.10 | Data Protection |
31 | ||||||
13.11 | Costs |
31 | ||||||
13.12 | No Right to Same Benefits |
31 | ||||||
13.13 | Death or Disability |
31 | ||||||
13.14 | Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act |
32 | ||||||
13.15 | Section 409A |
32 | ||||||
13.16 | Successor and Assigns |
33 | ||||||
13.17 | Severability of Provisions |
33 | ||||||
13.18 | Participants Subject to Taxation Outside the U.S.; No Tax Equalization |
33 |
iii
13.19 | Payments to Minors, Etc |
33 | ||||||
13.20 | Headings and Captions |
33 | ||||||
13.21 | Recoupment |
34 | ||||||
13.22 | Reformation |
34 | ||||||
13.23 | Electronic Communications |
34 | ||||||
13.24 | Agreement |
34 | ||||||
13.25 | Transition Period |
34 | ||||||
ARTICLE XIV EFFECTIVE DATE OF PLAN | 35 | |||||||
ARTICLE XV TERM OF PLAN | 35 | |||||||
EXHIBIT A: PERFORMANCE CRITERIA | Ex. A-1 | |||||||
EXHIBIT B: UNITED KINGDOM ADDENDUM | Ex. B-1 | |||||||
1. | Purpose |
Ex. B-1 | ||||||
2. | Definitions |
Ex. B-1 | ||||||
3. | Terms |
Ex. B-1 | ||||||
4. | Withholding Obligations |
Ex. B-1 | ||||||
5. | Section 431 Elections |
Ex. B-2 |
iv
SOLID BIOSCIENCES INC.
2018 OMNIBUS INCENTIVE PLAN
ARTICLE I
PURPOSE
The purpose of this Solid Biosciences Inc. 2018 Omnibus Incentive Plan is to enhance the profitability and value of the Company for the benefit of its stockholders by enabling the Company to offer Eligible Employees, Consultants, and Non-Employee Directors incentive awards to attract, retain, and reward such individuals and strengthen the mutuality of interests between such individuals and the Companys stockholders. The Plan, as set forth herein, is effective as of the Effective Date (as defined in Article XIV).
ARTICLE II
DEFINITIONS
For purposes of the Plan, the following terms shall have the following meanings:
2.1 Acquisition Event
means a merger or consolidation in which the Company is not the surviving entity, any transaction that results in the acquisition of all or substantially all of the Companys outstanding Common Stock by a single person or entity or by a group of persons or entities acting in concert, or the sale or transfer of all or substantially all of the Companys assets.
2.2 Affiliate
means each of the following: (a) any Subsidiary; (b) any Parent; (c) any corporation, trade, or business (including a partnership or limited liability company) that is directly or indirectly controlled 50% or more (whether by ownership of stock, assets, or an equivalent ownership interest or voting interest) by the Company or any Affiliate; (d) any corporation, trade, or business (including a partnership or limited liability company) that directly or indirectly controls 50% or more (whether by ownership of stock, assets, or an equivalent ownership interest or voting interest) of the Company; and (e) any other entity in which the Company or any Affiliate has a material equity interest and that is designated as an Affiliate by resolution of the Committee.
2.3 Appreciation Award
means any Stock Option or any Other Stock-Based Award that is based on the appreciation in value of a share of Common Stock in excess of an amount at least equal to the Fair Market Value on the date such Stock Option or Other Stock-Based Award is granted.
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2.4 Award
means any award granted or made under the Plan of any Stock Option, Restricted Stock, Other Stock-Based Award, or Performance-Based Cash Award.
2.5 Board
means the Board of Directors of the Company.
2.6 Cause
means, with respect to a Participants Termination of Employment or Termination of Consultancy, unless otherwise defined in the applicable Award agreement or other written agreement approved by the Committee, a termination due to (i) the failure by the Participant to perform such duties as are reasonably requested by the Company; (ii) the Participants disregard of his or her duties or failure to act, where such action would be in the ordinary course of the Participants duties; (iii) the failure by the Participant to observe policies of the Company or any Affiliate generally applicable to employees of the Company or any Affiliate; (iv) the gross negligence or willful misconduct by the Participant in the performance of his or her duties; (v) the commission by the Participant of any act of fraud, theft, dishonesty, or self-dealing with respect to the Company or any Affiliate, or any felony or criminal act involving moral turpitude; (vi) the Participants conviction of, or plea of guilty or nolo contendere to, a felony; (vii) any breach by the Participant of the provisions of any confidentiality, non-competition, or non-solicitation agreement between the Participant and the Company or any Affiliate, or any other agreement or contract with the Company or any Affiliate; (viii) chronic absenteeism (excluding vacations, illnesses, or leaves of absence approved by the Company); (ix) any alcohol or other substance abuse by the Participant; or (x) the commission by the Participant of any violation of any state or federal law relating to the workplace environment (including, without limitation, laws relating to sexual harassment or age, sex, or other prohibited discrimination). With respect to a Participants Termination of Directorship, cause means an act or failure to act that constitutes cause for removal of a director under Delaware law.
2.7 Change in Control
unless otherwise defined in the applicable Award agreement or other written agreement approved by the Committee and subject to Section 13.15(b), means the occurrence of any of the following:
(a) the acquisition (including through purchase, reorganization, merger, consolidation, or similar transaction), directly or indirectly, in one or more transactions by a Person (other than any Person or group of Persons consisting solely of stockholders of the Company as of the date immediately before the Registration Date) of beneficial ownership (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3) of securities representing 50% or more of the combined voting power of the securities of the Company entitled to vote generally in the election of directors, calculated on a fully diluted basis after giving effect to such acquisition;
(b) an election of Persons to the Board that causes two-thirds of the Board to consist of Persons other than (i) members of the Board on the Effective Date and (ii) Persons who were nominated for election as members of the Board at a time when two-thirds of the Board consisted of Persons who were members of the Board on the Effective Date; provided that any Person nominated for election by a Board at least two-thirds of which consisted of Persons described in clauses (i) or (ii) or by Persons who were themselves nominated by such Board shall be deemed to have been nominated by a Board consisting of Persons described in clause (i); or
2
(c) the sale or other disposition, directly or indirectly, of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole, to any Person (other than any Person or group of Persons consisting solely of stockholders of the Company as of the date immediately before the Registration Date);
provided, however, that a Change in Control shall be deemed to not have occurred if such Change in Control results from the issuance, in connection with a bona fide transaction or series of transactions with the primary purpose of providing equity financing to the Company or any of its Affiliates, of voting securities of the Company or any of its Affiliates or any rights to acquire voting securities of the Company or any of its Affiliates that are convertible into voting securities.
2.8 Change in Control Price
has the meaning set forth in Section 10.1.
2.9 Code
means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and all rules and regulations promulgated thereunder. Any reference to any Section of the Code shall also be a reference to any successor provision.
2.10 Committee
means: (a) with respect to the application of the Plan to Eligible Employees and Consultants, the Compensation Committee of the Board or such other committee or subcommittee that is appointed by the Board, in each case, consisting of two or more non-employee directors, each of whom is intended to be (i) to the extent required by Rule 16b-3, a Non-Employee Director; (ii) to the extent required by Section 162(m), an outside director as defined under Section 162(m); and (iii) as applicable, an independent director as defined under the Nasdaq Listing Rules, the NYSE Listed Company Manual, or other applicable stock exchange rules; and (b) with respect to the application of the Plan to Non-Employee Directors, the Board. It is intended that, absent an affirmative decision by the Board to appoint a separate Committee, the Compensation Committee of the Board shall serve as the Committee with respect to the application of the Plan to Eligible Employees and Consultants. To the extent that no Committee exists that has the authority to administer the Plan, the functions of the Committee shall be exercised by the Board, and all references herein to the Committee shall be deemed references to the Board. If for any reason the appointed Committee does not meet the requirements of Rule 16b-3 or Section 162(m), such noncompliance shall not affect the validity of Awards, grants, interpretations, or other actions of the Committee.
2.11 Common Stock
means the common stock of the Company, par value $0.001 per share.
2.12 Company
means Solid Biosciences Inc., a Delaware corporation, and its successors by operation of law.
3
2.13 Competitor
means any Person that is, directly or indirectly, in competition with the business or activities of the Company and its Affiliates.
2.14 Consultant
means any natural person who provides bona fide consulting or advisory services to the Company or its Affiliates, provided that such services are not in connection with the offer or sale of securities in a capital-raising transaction, and do not, directly or indirectly, promote or maintain a market for the Companys or its Affiliates securities.
2.15 Detrimental Activity
means, unless otherwise defined in the applicable Award agreement or other written agreement approved by the Committee:
(a) without written authorization from the Company, disclosure to any Person outside the Company and its Affiliates or the use in any manner, except as necessary in the furtherance of the Participants responsibilities to the Company or any of its Affiliates, at any time, of any confidential information, trade secrets, or proprietary information relating to the business of the Company or any of its Affiliates that is acquired by the Participant at any time before the Participants Termination;
(b) any activity while employed or performing services that results, or if known could have reasonably been expected to result, in the Participants Termination for Cause;
(c) without written authorization from the Company, directly or indirectly, in any capacity whatsoever, (i) owning, managing, operating, controlling, being employed by (whether as an employee, consultant, independent contractor, or otherwise, and whether or not for compensation), or rendering services to any Competitor; (ii) soliciting, aiding, or inducing any customer of the Company or any Subsidiary to curtail, reduce, or terminate its business relationship with the Company or any Subsidiary, or in any other way interfering with any such business relationships with the Company or any Subsidiary; (iii) soliciting, aiding, or inducing any employee, representative, or agent of the Company or any Subsidiary to leave such employment or retention or to accept employment with or render services to or with any other person, firm, corporation, or other entity unaffiliated with the Company or hiring or retaining any such employee, representative, or agent or taking any action to materially assist or aid any other person, firm, corporation, or other entity in identifying, hiring, or soliciting any such employee, representative, or agent; or (iv) interfering, or aiding, or inducing any other person or entity in interfering with the relationship between the Company, its Subsidiaries, and any of their respective vendors, joint venturers, or licensors;
(d) a material breach of any restrictive covenant contained in any agreement between the Participant and the Company or an Affiliate; or
(e) the Participants Disparagement, or inducement of other to do so, of the Company or its Affiliates or their past or present officers, directors, employees, or products.
Only the Chief Executive Officer or the Chief Financial Officer of the Company (or their designee, as evidenced in writing) shall have the authority to provide the Participant, except for himself or herself, with written authorization to engage in the activities contemplated in subsections (a) and (c).
4
2.16 Disability
means, unless otherwise defined in the applicable Award agreement or other written agreement approved by the Committee, with respect to a Participants Termination, a permanent and total disability, as defined in Section 22(e)(3) of the Code. A Disability shall only be deemed to occur at the time of the determination by the Committee of the Disability. Notwithstanding the foregoing, for an Award that provides for payment or settlement triggered upon a Disability and that constitutes a Section 409A Covered Award, the foregoing definition shall apply for purposes of vesting of such Award, provided that for purposes of payment or settlement of such Award, such Award shall not be paid (or otherwise settled) until the earliest of: (A) the Participants disability within the meaning of Section 409A(a)(2)(C) of the Code, (B) the Participants separation from service within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code, and (C) the date such Award would otherwise be settled pursuant to the terms of the Award agreement.
2.17 Disparagement
means making comments or statements to the press, the Companys or its Affiliates employees, consultants, or any individual or entity with whom the Company or its Affiliates has a business relationship that could reasonably be expected to adversely affect in any manner: (a) the conduct of the business of the Company or its Affiliates (including, without limitation, any products or business plans or prospects); or (b) the business reputation of the Company or its Affiliates, or any of their products, or their past or present officers, directors, or employees. For purposes of this Section 2.17, Disparagement does not include (i) compliance with legal process or subpoenas to the extent only truthful statements are rendered in such compliance attempt, (ii) statements made in response to an inquiry from a court or regulatory body, or (iii) reporting possible violations of federal law or regulation to any governmental agency or entity, including but not limited to, the Department of Justice, the Securities and Exchange Commission, the U.S. Congress, or any Inspector General, or making other disclosures that are protected under the whistleblower provisions of applicable law or regulation.
2.18 Dividends
means dividends, dividend equivalents, or other distributions.
2.19 Effective Date
means the effective date of the Plan, as defined in Article XIV.
2.20 Eligible Employee
means an employee of the Company or an Affiliate.
2.21 Exchange Act
means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and all rules and regulations promulgated thereunder. Any references to any Section of the Exchange Act shall also be a reference to any successor provision.
2.22 Exercisable Awards
has the meaning set forth in Section 4.2(d).
5
2.23 Fair Market Value
unless otherwise required by any applicable provision of the Code, means as of any date and except as provided below, (a) the closing price reported for the Common Stock on such date: (i) as reported on the principal national securities exchange in the United States on which it is then traded, or (ii) if not traded on any such national securities exchange, as quoted on an automated quotation system sponsored by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority; or (b) if the Common Stock shall not have been reported or quoted on such date, on the first day prior thereto on which the Common Stock was reported or quoted. If the Common Stock is not traded, listed, or otherwise reported or quoted, then Fair Market Value means the fair market value of the Common Stock as determined by the Committee in good faith in whatever manner it considers appropriate, taking into account the requirements of Section 409A or Section 422 of the Code, as applicable. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, for purposes of any Stock Options that are granted effective on the Registration Date, the Fair Market Value shall equal the initial public offering price of the Common Stock.
2.24 Family Member
means family member, as defined in Section A.1.(a)(5) of the general instructions of Form S-8, as may be amended from time to time.
2.25 Incentive Stock Option
means any Stock Option awarded to an Eligible Employee of the Company, its Subsidiaries, or its Parent intended to be and designated as an Incentive Stock Option within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code.
2.26 Individual Target Award
has the meaning in Section 9.1.
2.27 Lead Underwriter
has the meaning in Section 13.24.
2.28 Lock-Up Period
has the meaning in Section 13.24.
2.29 Non-Employee Director
means a non-employee director, as defined in Rule 16b-3.
2.30 Non-Qualified Stock Option
means any Stock Option that is not an Incentive Stock Option.
2.31 Other Extraordinary Event
has the meaning in Section 4.2(b).
2.32 Other Stock-Based Award
means an Award under Article VIII that is valued in whole or in part by reference to, or is payable in or otherwise based on, Common Stock.
6
2.33 Parent
means any parent corporation of the Company within the meaning of Section 424(e) of the Code.
2.34 Participant
means an Eligible Employee, Non-Employee Director, or Consultant to whom an Award has been granted pursuant to the Plan.
2.35 Performance-Based Cash Award
means a cash Award under Article IX that is payable or otherwise based on the attainment of certain pre-established performance goals during a Performance Period.
2.36 Performance Criteria
has the meaning set forth in Exhibit A.
2.37 Performance Period
means each fiscal year of the Company or such other period (as specified by the Committee) over which the attainment of performance goals is measured.
2.38 Performance Share
means an Other Stock-Based Award of the right to receive a number of shares of Common Stock or cash of an equivalent value at the end of a specified Performance Period.
2.39 Performance Unit
means an Other Stock-Based Award of the right to receive a fixed dollar amount, payable in cash or Common Stock or a combination of both, at the end of a specified Performance Period.
2.40 Person
means any individual, entity (including any employee benefit plan or any trust for an employee benefit plan), or group (within the meaning of Section 13(d)(3) or Section 14(d)(2) of the Exchange Act, or any successor provision).
2.41 Plan
means this Solid Biosciences Inc. 2018 Omnibus Incentive Plan, as amended from time to time.
2.42 Registration Date
means the first date on or after the Effective Date (a) on which the Company sells its Common Stock in a bona fide, firm commitment underwriting pursuant to a registration statement under the Securities Act, or (b) any class of common equity securities of the Company is required to be registered under Section 12 of the Exchange Act.
2.43 Restricted Stock
means an Award of shares of Common Stock that is subject to restrictions pursuant to Article VII.
7
2.44 Restriction Period
has the meaning set forth in Section 7.3(a).
2.45 Rule 13d-3
means Rule 13d-3 under Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act as then in effect or any successor provision and all rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.
2.46 Rule 16b-3
means Rule 16b-3 under Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act as then in effect or any successor provision and all rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.
2.47 Section 162(m)
means the exception for performance-based compensation under Section 162(m) of the Code and all rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.
2.48 Section 4.2 Event
has the meaning set forth in Section 4.2(b).
2.49 Section 409A Covered Award
has the meaning set forth in Section 13.15.
2.50 Section 409A
means the nonqualified deferred compensation rules under Section 409A of the Code and all rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.
2.51 Securities Act
means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and all rules and regulations promulgated thereunder. Any reference to any Section of the Securities Act shall also be a reference to any successor provision.
2.52 Stock Option or Option
means any option to purchase shares of Common Stock granted pursuant to Article VI.
2.53 Subsidiary
means any subsidiary corporation of the Company within the meaning of Section 424(f) of the Code.
2.54 Ten Percent Stockholder
means a person owning stock possessing more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock of the Company, its Subsidiaries, or its Parent.
2.55 Termination
means a Termination of Consultancy, Termination of Directorship, or Termination of Employment, as applicable.
2.56 Termination of Consultancy
means: (a) that the Consultant is no longer acting as a consultant to the Company or an Affiliate; or (b) when an entity that is retaining a Participant as a Consultant ceases to be an
8
Affiliate, unless the Participant otherwise is, or thereupon becomes, a Consultant to the Company or another Affiliate at the time the entity ceases to be an Affiliate. In the event that a Consultant becomes an Eligible Employee or a Non-Employee Director upon the termination of his consultancy, unless otherwise determined by the Committee, no Termination of Consultancy shall be deemed to occur until such time as such Consultant is no longer a Consultant, an Eligible Employee, or a Non-Employee Director. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee may otherwise define Termination of Consultancy in the Award agreement or, if no rights of a Participant are reduced, may otherwise define Termination of Consultancy thereafter.
2.57 Termination of Directorship
means that the Non-Employee Director has ceased to be a director of the Company; except that if a Non-Employee Director becomes an Eligible Employee or a Consultant upon the termination of his directorship, his ceasing to be a director of the Company shall not be treated as a Termination of Directorship unless and until the Participant has a Termination of Employment or Termination of Consultancy, as the case may be.
2.58 Termination of Employment
means: (a) a termination of employment (for reasons other than a military or other approved leave of absence) of a Participant from the Company and its Affiliates; or (b) when an entity that is employing a Participant ceases to be an Affiliate, unless the Participant otherwise is, or thereupon becomes, employed by the Company or another Affiliate at the time the entity ceases to be an Affiliate. In the event that an Eligible Employee becomes a Consultant or a Non-Employee Director upon the termination of his employment, unless otherwise determined by the Committee, no Termination of Employment shall be deemed to occur until such time as such Eligible Employee is no longer an Eligible Employee, a Consultant, or a Non-Employee Director. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee may otherwise define Termination of Employment in the Award agreement or, if no rights of a Participant are reduced, may otherwise define Termination of Employment thereafter.
2.59 Transfer
means: (a) when used as a noun, any direct or indirect transfer, offer, sale, assignment, pledge, lease, donation, grant, gift, bequest, hypothecation, encumbrance, charge, or other disposition (including the issuance of equity in a Person), whether for value or no value and whether voluntary or involuntary (including by operation of law), and (b) when used as a verb, to directly or indirectly transfer, offer, sell, assign, pledge, lease, donate, grant, gift, bequest, hypothecate, encumber, charge, or otherwise dispose of (including the issuance of equity in a Person) whether for value or for no value and whether voluntarily or involuntarily (including by operation of law). Transferred and Transferable shall have a correlative meaning.
2.60 Transition Period
means the reliance period under Treasury Regulation Section 1.162-27(f)(2), which ends on the earliest to occur of the following: (i) the date of the first annual meeting of stockholders at which directors are to be elected that occurs after the close of the third calendar year following the calendar year in which the Registration Date occurs; (ii) the date the Plan is materially amended for purposes of Treasury Regulation Section 1.162-27(h)(1)(iii); or (iii) the date all shares of Common Stock available for issuance under the Plan have been allocated.
9
ARTICLE III
ADMINISTRATION
3.1 The Committee.
The Plan shall be administered and interpreted by the Committee.
3.2 Grant and Administration of Awards.
The Committee shall have full authority and discretion, as provided in Section 3.7, to grant and administer Awards, including the authority to:
(a) select the Eligible Employees, Consultants, and Non-Employee Directors to whom Awards may from time to time be granted;
(b) determine the number of shares of Common Stock to be covered by each Award;
(c) determine the type and the terms and conditions, not inconsistent with the terms of the Plan, of each Award (including the exercise or purchase price (if any), any restriction, forfeiture, or limitation, and any vesting schedule or acceleration or waiver thereof);
(d) determine whether a Stock Option is an Incentive Stock Option or Non-Qualified Stock Option;
(e) determine whether to require a Participant, as a condition of the granting of any Award, to refrain from selling or otherwise disposing of Common Stock acquired pursuant to such Award for a period of time, as determined by the Committee;
(f) condition the grant, vesting, or payment of any Award on the attainment of performance goals (including goals based on the Performance Criteria) over a Performance Period, set such goals and such period, and certify the attainment of such goals;
(g) amend, after the date of grant, the terms that apply to an Award upon a Participants Termination, provided that such amendment does not reduce the Participants rights under the Award;
(h) adopt, alter, or repeal such subplans to the Plan as it shall deem necessary or advisable;
(i) determine the circumstances under which Common Stock and other amounts payable with respect to an Award may be deferred automatically or at the election of the Participant, in each case in a manner intended to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A;
(j) generally, exercise such powers and perform such acts as the Committee deems necessary or advisable to promote the best interests of the Company in connection with the Plan that are not inconsistent with the provisions of the Plan and applicable law;
(k) construe and interpret the terms and provisions of the Plan and any Award (and any agreements relating thereto); and
(l) correct any defect, supply any omission, or reconcile any inconsistency in the Plan or in any agreement relating thereto.
10
3.3 Award Agreements.
All Awards shall be evidenced by, and subject to the terms and conditions of, a written notice provided by the Company to the Participant or a written agreement executed by the Company and the Participant.
3.4 Guidelines.
The Committee shall have the authority to adopt, alter, and repeal such administrative rules, guidelines, and practices governing the Plan as it shall, from time to time, deem necessary or advisable. The Committee may adopt special guidelines and provisions for persons who are residing in or employed in, or subject to, the taxes of, any domestic or foreign jurisdiction to comply with applicable tax and securities laws and may impose such limitations and restrictions that it deems necessary or advisable to comply with the applicable tax and securities laws of such domestic or foreign jurisdiction.
3.5 Section 162(m).
Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, with regard to any provision of the Plan or any agreement relating thereto that is intended to comply with Section 162(m) following the Transition Period, any action or determination by the Committee shall be permitted only to the extent such action or determination would be permitted under Section 162(m). The Plan has been adopted by the Board before the Registration Date and is intended to rely on the Transition Period and, following the Transition Period with respect to Awards intended to be performance-based, to comply with the applicable provisions of Section 162(m), and the Plan shall be limited, construed, and interpreted in a manner so as to comply therewith.
3.6 Delegation; Advisors.
The Committee may, as it from time to time deems advisable and to the extent permitted by applicable law and stock exchange rules:
(a) delegate its responsibilities to officers or employees of the Company and its Affiliates, including delegating authority to officers to grant Awards or execute agreements or other documents on behalf of the Committee; and
(b) engage legal counsel, consultants, professional advisors, and agents to assist in the administration of the Plan and rely upon any opinion or computation received from any such Person. Expenses incurred by the Committee or the Board in the engagement of any such person shall be paid by the Company.
3.7 Decisions Final.
All determinations, evaluations, elections, approvals, authorizations, consents, decisions, interpretations, and other actions made or taken by or at the direction of the Company, the Board, or the Committee (or any of its members) arising out of or in connection with the Plan shall be within the sole and absolute discretion of all and each of them, and shall be final, binding, and conclusive on all employees and Participants and their respective beneficiaries, heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns.
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3.8 Procedures.
If the Committee is appointed, the Board shall designate one of the members of the Committee as chairperson, and the Committee shall hold meetings, subject to the By-Laws of the Company, at such times and places as it shall deem advisable, including by telephone conference or by written consent to the extent permitted by applicable law. A majority of the Committee members shall constitute a quorum. All determinations of the Committee shall be made by a majority of its members. Any decision or determination reduced to writing and signed by all of the Committee members in accordance with the By-Laws of the Company shall be fully effective as if it had been made by a vote at a meeting duly called and held. The Committee shall keep minutes of its meetings and shall make such rules and regulations for the conduct of its business as it shall deem advisable.
3.9 Liability; Indemnification.
(a) The Committee, its members, and any delegate or Person engaged pursuant to Section 3.6 shall not be liable for any action or determination made in good faith with respect to the Plan. To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, no officer or employee of the Company or any Affiliate or member or former member of the Committee or of the Board shall be liable for any action or determination made in good faith with respect to the Plan or any Award granted under it.
(b) To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law and the Certificate of Incorporation and By-Laws of the Company and to the extent not covered by insurance directly insuring such person, each current or former officer or employee of the Company or any Affiliate and member of the Committee or the Board shall be indemnified and held harmless by the Company against any cost or expense (including reasonable fees of counsel reasonably acceptable to the Committee) or liability (including any sum paid in settlement of a claim with the approval of the Committee), and shall be advanced amounts necessary to pay the foregoing at the earliest time and to the fullest extent permitted, arising out of any act or omission to act in connection with the administration of the Plan, except to the extent arising out of such persons own fraud or bad faith. Such indemnification shall be in addition to any rights of indemnification provided for under applicable law or under the Certificate of Incorporation or By-Laws of the Company or any Affiliate. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, this indemnification will not apply to the actions or determinations made by an individual with regard to Awards granted to him.
ARTICLE IV
SHARE LIMITATIONS
4.1 Shares.
(a) General Limitations.
(i) Subject to Section 4.2, the aggregate number of shares of Common Stock which may be issued or used for reference purposes or with respect to which Awards under the Plan may be granted over the term of the Plan is 5,001,000. Subject to Section 4.2, no more than 5,001,000 shares of Common Stock in the aggregate may be issued under the Plan in respect of Incentive Stock Options. At all times, the Company will reserve and keep available a sufficient number of shares of Common Stock as will be required to satisfy the requirements of all Awards granted and outstanding under the Plan.
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(ii) If any Appreciation Award expires, terminates, or is canceled for any reason without having been exercised in full, the number of shares of Common Stock underlying any unexercised portion shall again be available under the Plan. If shares of Restricted Stock or Other Stock-Based Awards that are not Appreciation Awards are forfeited for any reason, the number of forfeited shares comprising or underlying the Award shall again be available under the Plan.
(iii) The number of shares of Common Stock available under the Plan shall be reduced by (A) the total number of Appreciation Awards that have been exercised, regardless of whether any shares of Common Stock underlying such Awards are actually issued to the Participant as the result of a net exercise or settlement, and (B) all shares of Common Stock, not covered by clause (A) above used to pay any exercise price or tax withholding obligation with respect to any Award. In addition, the Company may not use the cash proceeds it receives from Stock Option exercises to repurchase shares of Common Stock on the open market for reuse under the Plan. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, Awards that may be settled solely in cash shall not be deemed to use any shares under the Plan.
(iv) Shares issued under the Plan may be either authorized and unissued Common Stock or Common Stock held in or acquired for the treasury of the Company, or both.
(b) Individual Participant Limitations. Except as otherwise provided herein, at all times after the end of the Transition Period:
(i) the maximum number of shares of Common Stock that may be made subject to Stock Options, Restricted Stock, or Other Stock-Based Awards denominated in shares of Common Stock granted to each Eligible Employee or Consultant during any fiscal year of the Company is 2,500,500 shares per type of Award (subject to increase or decrease pursuant to Section 4.2);
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(ii) the aggregate amount of compensation to be paid to any one Participant in respect of all Other Stock-Based Awards denominated in dollars and Performance-Based Cash Awards, and granted to such Participant in any one fiscal year of the Company, shall not exceed $5 million, and any Awards that are cancelled during the year shall be counted against this limit to the extent required by Section 162(m) of the Code; provided, further, that the foregoing limit shall be adjusted on a proportionate basis for any Performance Period that is not based on one fiscal year of the Company; and
(iii) the maximum number of shares of Common Stock that may be made subject to Awards granted to each Non-Employee Director during any fiscal year of the Company is 1,000,200 shares (subject to increase or decrease pursuant to Section 4.2); and
provided, however, that the foregoing individual Participant limits shall not apply to (x) any Awards granted at any time that are not intended to be performance-based under Section 162(m) of the Code, and (y) the following Awards granted at any time during the Transition Period: (A) Options or Other Stock-Based Awards that are stock appreciation rights, and (B) Restricted Stock or Other Stock-Based Awards that constitute restricted property under Section 83 of the Code to the extent granted during the Transition Period, even if such Awards vest or are settled after the Transition Period.
4.2 Changes.
(a) The existence of the Plan and the Awards shall not affect in any way the right or power of the Board or the stockholders of the Company to make or authorize (i) any adjustment, recapitalization, reorganization, or other change in the Companys capital structure or its business, (ii) any merger or consolidation of the Company or any Affiliate, (iii) any issuance of bonds, debentures, or preferred or prior preference stock ahead of or affecting the Common Stock, (iv) the dissolution or liquidation of the Company or any Affiliate, (v) any sale or transfer of all or part of the assets or business of the Company or any Affiliate, (vi) any Section 4.2 Event, or (vii) any other corporate act or proceeding.
(b) Subject to the provisions of Section 4.2(d), in the event of any change in the capital structure or business of the Company by reason of any stock split, reverse stock split, stock dividend, combination or reclassification of shares, recapitalization, merger, consolidation, spin off, split off, reorganization or partial or complete liquidation, issuance of rights or warrants to purchase Common Stock or securities convertible into Common Stock, sale or transfer of all or part of the Companys assets or business, or other corporate transaction or event that would be considered an equity restructuring within the meaning of FASB ASC Topic 718 (each, a Section 4.2 Event), then (i) the aggregate number or kind of shares that thereafter may be issued under the Plan, (ii) the number or kind of shares or other property (including cash) subject to an Award, (iii) the purchase or exercise price of Awards, and (iv) the individual Participant limits set forth in Section 4.1(b) (other than cash limitations) shall be adjusted by the Committee as the Committee determines, in good faith, to be necessary or advisable to prevent substantial dilution or enlargement of the rights of the Participants under the Plan. In connection with any Section 4.2 Event, the Committee may provide for the cancellation of outstanding Awards and payment in cash or other property in exchange therefor. In addition, subject to Section 4.2(d), in the event of any change in the capital structure of the Company that is not a Section 4.2 Event (an Other Extraordinary Event), then the Committee may make the adjustments described in
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clauses (i) through (iv) above as it determines, in good faith, to be necessary or advisable to prevent substantial dilution or enlargement of the rights of Participants under the Plan. Notice of any such adjustment shall be given by the Committee, or otherwise be made available, to each Participant whose Award has been adjusted and such adjustment (whether or not such notice is given) shall be binding for all purposes of the Plan. Except as expressly provided in this Section 4.2(b) or in the applicable Award agreement, a Participant shall have no rights by reason of any Section 4.2 Event or any Other Extraordinary Event. Notwithstanding the foregoing, (x) any adjustments made pursuant to Section 4.2(b) to Awards that are considered non-qualified deferred compensation within the meaning of Section 409A shall be made in a manner intended to comply with the requirements of Section 409A; and (y) any adjustments made pursuant to Section 4.2(b) to Awards that are not considered non-qualified deferred compensation subject to Section 409A shall be made in a manner intended to ensure that after such adjustment, the Awards either (A) continue to be exempt from Section 409A or (B) comply with the requirements of Section 409A.
(c) Fractional shares of Common Stock resulting from any adjustment in Awards pursuant to Section 4.2(a) or (b) shall be aggregated until, and eliminated at, the time of exercise by rounding-down for fractions less than one-half and rounding-up for fractions equal to or greater than one-half. No cash settlements shall be made with respect to fractional shares eliminated by rounding.
(d) Upon the occurrence of an Acquisition Event, the Committee may terminate all outstanding and unexercised Stock Options or any Other Stock-Based Award that provides for a Participant-elected exercise (collectively, Exercisable Awards), effective as of the date of the Acquisition Event, by delivering notice of termination to each Participant at least 20 days before the date of consummation of the Acquisition Event, in which case during the period from the date on which such notice of termination is delivered to the consummation of the Acquisition Event, each such Participant shall have the right to exercise in full all of such Exercisable Awards that are then outstanding to the extent vested on the date such notice of termination is given (or, at the discretion of the Committee, without regard to any limitations on exercisability otherwise contained in the Award agreements), but any such exercise shall be contingent on the occurrence of the Acquisition Event, and, provided that, if the Acquisition Event does not take place within a specified period set forth in such notice, if any, for any reason whatsoever, the notice and exercise pursuant thereto shall be null and void and the applicable provisions of Section 4.2(b) and Article X shall apply. For the avoidance of doubt, in the event of an Acquisition Event, the Committee may terminate any Exercisable Award for which the exercise price is equal to or exceeds the Fair Market Value on the date of the Acquisition Event without payment of consideration therefor. If an Acquisition Event occurs but the Committee does not terminate the outstanding Awards pursuant to this Section 4.2(d), then the provisions of Section 4.2(b) and Article X shall apply.
4.3 Minimum Purchase Price.
Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, if authorized but previously unissued shares of Common Stock are issued under the Plan, such shares shall not be issued for consideration that is less than required under applicable law.
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ARTICLE V
ELIGIBILITY
5.1 General Eligibility.
All current and prospective Eligible Employees and Consultants, and current Non-Employee Directors, are eligible to be granted Awards. Eligibility for the grant of Awards and actual participation in the Plan shall be determined by the Committee in its sole discretion. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, no Award under which a Participant may receive shares of Common Stock may be granted to an Eligible Employee, Consultant, or Non-Employee Director of any Affiliate if such shares of Common Stock do not constitute service recipient stock for purposes of Section 409A with respect to such Eligible Employee, Consultant, or Non-Employee Director if such shares are required to constitute service recipient stock for such Award to comply with, or be exempt from, Section 409A.
5.2 Incentive Stock Options.
Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, only Eligible Employees of the Company, its Subsidiaries, and its Parent (if any) are eligible to be granted Incentive Stock Options under the Plan. Eligibility for the grant of an Incentive Stock Option and actual participation in the Plan shall be determined by the Committee.
5.3 General Requirement.
The grant of Awards to a prospective Eligible Employee or Consultant and the vesting and exercise of such Awards shall be conditioned upon such Person actually becoming an Eligible Employee or Consultant; provided, however, that no Award may be granted to a prospective Eligible Employee or Consultant unless the Company determines that the Award will comply with applicable laws, including the securities laws of all relevant jurisdictions (and, in the case of an Award to an Eligible Employee or Consultant pursuant to which Common Stock would be issued before such Person performing services for the Company, the Company may require payment of not less than the par value of the Common Stock by cash or check to ensure proper issuance of the shares in compliance with applicable law). Awards may be awarded in consideration for past services actually rendered to the Company or an Affiliate.
ARTICLE VI
STOCK OPTIONS
6.1 Stock Options.
Each Stock Option shall be one of two types: (a) an Incentive Stock Option, or (b) a Non-Qualified Stock Option. The Committee shall have the authority to grant to any Eligible Employee Incentive Stock Options, Non-Qualified Stock Options, or both types of Stock Options. The Committee shall have the authority to grant any Consultant or Non-Employee Director Non-Qualified Stock Options. To the extent that any Stock Option does not qualify as an Incentive Stock Option (whether because of its provisions or the time or manner of its exercise or otherwise), such Stock Option or the portion thereof that does not qualify as an Incentive Stock Option shall constitute a separate Non-Qualified Stock Option.
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6.2 Incentive Stock Options.
Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, no term of the Plan relating to Incentive Stock Options shall be interpreted, amended, or altered, nor shall any discretion or authority granted under the Plan be so exercised, so as to disqualify the Plan under Section 422 of the Code, or, without the consent of the Participants affected, to disqualify any Incentive Stock Option under Section 422 of the Code.
6.3 Terms of Stock Options.
Stock Options granted under the Plan shall be subject to the following terms and conditions and shall be in such form and contain such additional terms and conditions, not inconsistent with the terms of the Plan, as the Committee shall deem desirable:
(a) Exercise Price. The exercise price per share of Common Stock subject to a Stock Option shall be determined by the Committee on or before the date of grant, provided that the per share exercise price of a Stock Option shall be not less than 100% (or, in the case of an Incentive Stock Option granted to a Ten Percent Stockholder, 110%) of the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock on the date of grant.
(b) Stock Option Term. The term of each Stock Option shall be fixed by the Committee, provided that no Stock Option shall be exercisable more than ten years after the date such Stock Option is granted (or, in the case of an Incentive Stock Option granted to a Ten Percent Stockholder, five years).
(c) Exercisability.
(i) Stock Options shall be exercisable at such time or times and subject to such terms and conditions as shall be determined by the Committee in the applicable Award agreement; provided, however, that Stock Options shall be subject to a minimum vesting schedule of at least one year from the date of grant, except that the Committee may provide (but shall have no obligation to do so) for accelerated vesting before the completion of such one-year period upon a Change in Control or the Participants Disability or death. Notwithstanding the foregoing sentence, subject to the limitations set forth in Section 4, Awards with respect to up to five percent (5%) of the total number of shares of Common Stock reserved for Awards under the Plan may be granted to any Participant without regard to any minimum vesting requirements. The Committee may waive any limitations on exercisability at any time at or after grant in whole or in part, in its discretion.
(ii) Unless otherwise determined by the Committee in the applicable Award agreement, (A) in the event the Participant engages in Detrimental Activity before any exercise of the Stock Option, all Stock Options held by the Participant shall thereupon terminate and expire, (B) as a condition of the exercise of a Stock Option, the Participant shall be required to certify in a manner acceptable to the Company (or shall be deemed to have certified) that the Participant is in compliance with the terms and conditions of the Plan and that the Participant has not engaged in, and does not intend to engage in, any Detrimental Activity, and (C) in the event the Participant engages in Detrimental Activity during the one-year period commencing on the earlier of the date the Stock Option is exercised or the date of the Participants Termination, the Company shall be entitled to recover from the Participant at any time within one year after the date on which the Company becomes aware of Participants engagement in such Detrimental Activity, and the Participant shall pay over to the Company, an amount equal to any gain realized (whether at the time of exercise or thereafter) as a result of the exercise. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee in the applicable Award agreement, this Section 6.3(c)(ii) shall cease to apply upon a Change in Control.
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(d) Method of Exercise. To the extent vested, a Stock Option may be exercised in whole or in part at any time during the Option term, by giving written notice of exercise to the Committee (or its designee) specifying the number of shares of Common Stock to be purchased. Such notice shall be in a form acceptable to the Committee and shall be accompanied by payment in full of the purchase price as follows: (i) in cash or by check, bank draft, or money order payable to the order of the Company; (ii) solely to the extent permitted by applicable law and authorized by the Committee, if the Common Stock is traded on a national securities exchange or quoted on a national quotation system sponsored by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, through a procedure whereby the Participant delivers irrevocable instructions to a broker reasonably acceptable to the Committee to deliver promptly to the Company an amount equal to the purchase price; or (iii) on such other terms and conditions as may be acceptable to the Committee (including the relinquishment of Stock Options or by payment in full or in part in the form of Common Stock owned by the Participant (for which the Participant has good title, free and clear of any liens and encumbrances)). No shares of Common Stock shall be issued until payment therefor, as provided herein, has been made or provided for.
(e) Non-Transferability of Options. No Stock Option shall be Transferable by the Participant other than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution, and all Stock Options shall be exercisable, during the Participants lifetime, only by the Participant. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee may determine that a Non-Qualified Stock Option that otherwise is not Transferable pursuant to this Section is Transferable to a Family Member in whole or in part, and in such circumstances, and under such conditions as specified by the Committee. A Non-Qualified Stock Option that is Transferred to a Family Member pursuant to the preceding sentence (i) may not be Transferred subsequently other than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution, and (ii) remains subject to the terms of the Plan and the applicable Award agreement. Any shares of Common Stock acquired upon the exercise of a Non-Qualified Stock Option by a permissible transferee of a Non-Qualified Stock Option or a permissible transferee pursuant to a Transfer after the exercise of the Non-Qualified Stock Option shall be subject to the terms of this Plan and the applicable Award agreement.
(f) Termination by Death or Disability. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee at grant (or, if no rights of the Participant (or, in the case of his death, his estate) are reduced, thereafter), if a Participants Termination is by reason of death or Disability, all Stock Options that are held by such Participant that are vested and exercisable on the date of the Participants Termination may be exercised by the Participant (or, in the case of death, by the legal representative of the Participants estate) at any time within a period of one year after the date of such Termination, but in no event beyond the expiration of the stated term of such Stock Options.
(g) Involuntary Termination Without Cause. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee at grant (or, if no rights of the Participant (or, in the case of his death, his estate) are reduced, thereafter), if a Participants Termination is by involuntary termination by the Company or an Affiliate without Cause, all Stock Options that are held by such Participant that are vested and exercisable on the date of the Participants Termination may be exercised by the Participant at any time within a period of 90 days after the date of such Termination, but in no event beyond the expiration of the stated term of such Stock Options.
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(h) Voluntary Termination. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee at grant (or, if no rights of the Participant (or, in the case of his death, his estate) are reduced, thereafter), if a Participants Termination is voluntary (other than a voluntary Termination described in subsection (i)(B) below), all Stock Options that are held by such Participant that are vested and exercisable on the date of the Participants Termination may be exercised by the Participant at any time within a period of 30 days after the date of such Termination, but in no event beyond the expiration of the stated term of such Stock Options.
(i) Termination for Cause. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee at grant (or, if no rights of the Participant (or, in the case of his death, his estate) are reduced, thereafter), if a Participants Termination (A) is for Cause or (B) is a voluntary Termination after the occurrence of an event that would be grounds for a Termination for Cause, all Stock Options, whether vested or not vested, that are held by such Participant shall terminate and expire on the date of such Termination.
(j) Unvested Stock Options. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee, Stock Options that are not vested as of the date of a Participants Termination for any reason shall terminate and expire on the date of such Termination.
(k) Incentive Stock Option Limitations. To the extent that the aggregate Fair Market Value (determined as of the date of grant) with respect to which Incentive Stock Options are exercisable for the first time by an Eligible Employee during any calendar year under the Plan and any other stock option plan of the Company, any Subsidiary, or any Parent exceeds $100,000, such Incentive Stock Options shall be treated as Non-Qualified Stock Options. In addition, if an Eligible Employee does not remain employed by the Company, any Subsidiary, or any Parent at all times from the date an Incentive Stock Option is granted until three months before the date of exercise thereof (or such other period as required by applicable law), such Stock Option shall be treated as a Non-Qualified Stock Option. Should any provision of the Plan not be necessary in order for the Stock Options to qualify as Incentive Stock Options, or should any additional provisions be required, the Committee may amend the Plan accordingly, without the necessity of obtaining the approval of the stockholders of the Company.
(l) Form, Modification, Extension, and Renewal of Stock Options. Stock Options may be evidenced by such form of agreement as is approved by the Committee. The Committee may (i) modify, extend, or renew outstanding Stock Options (provided that (A) the rights of a Participant are not reduced without his consent, and (B) such action does not subject the Stock Options to Section 409A or otherwise extend the Stock Options beyond their stated term), and (ii) accept the surrender of outstanding Stock Options and authorize the granting of new Stock Options in substitution therefor. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, an outstanding Option may not be modified to reduce the exercise price thereof nor may a new Option at a lower exercise price be substituted for a surrendered Option (other than adjustments or substitutions in accordance with Section 4.2), unless such action is approved by the stockholders of the Company.
(m) No Reload Options. Options shall not provide for the grant of the same number of Options as the number of shares used to pay for the exercise price of Options or shares used to pay withholding taxes (i.e., reloads).
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ARTICLE VII
RESTRICTED STOCK
7.1 Awards of Restricted Stock.
The Committee shall determine the Participants to whom, and the time or times at which, grants of Restricted Stock shall be made, the number of shares to be awarded, the purchase price (if any) to be paid by the Participant (subject to Section 7.2), the time or times at which such Awards may be subject to forfeiture or to restrictions on transfer, and all other terms and conditions of the Awards.
Unless otherwise determined by the Committee in the applicable Award agreement, (A) in the event the Participant engages in Detrimental Activity before any vesting of Restricted Stock, all unvested Restricted Stock shall be immediately forfeited, and (B) in the event the Participant engages in Detrimental Activity during the one-year period after any vesting of such Restricted Stock, the Committee shall be entitled to recover from the Participant (at any time within one year after such engagement in Detrimental Activity) an amount equal to the Fair Market Value as of the vesting date(s) of any Restricted Stock that had vested in the period referred to above. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee in the applicable Award agreement, this paragraph shall cease to apply upon a Change in Control.
The Committee may condition the grant or vesting of Restricted Stock upon the attainment of specified performance goals (including goals based on the Performance Criteria) or such other factors as the Committee may determine.
7.2 Awards and Certificates.
The Committee may require, as a condition to the effectiveness of an Award of Restricted Stock, that the Participant execute and deliver to the Company an Award agreement or other documentation and comply with the terms of such Award agreement or other documentation. Further, Restricted Stock shall be subject to the following conditions:
(a) Purchase Price. The purchase price of Restricted Stock, if any, shall be fixed by the Committee. In accordance with Section 4.3, the purchase price for shares of Restricted Stock may be zero to the extent permitted by applicable law, and, to the extent not so permitted, such purchase price may not be less than the minimum purchase price required under applicable law.
(b) Legend. Each Participant receiving Restricted Stock shall be issued a stock certificate in respect of such shares of Restricted Stock, unless the Committee elects to use another system, such as book entries by the transfer agent, as evidencing ownership of shares of Restricted Stock. Such certificate shall be registered in the name of such Participant, and shall, in addition to such legends required by applicable securities laws, if any, bear an appropriate legend referring to the terms, conditions, and restrictions applicable to such Award, substantially in the following form:
The anticipation, alienation, attachment, sale, transfer, assignment, pledge, encumbrance, or charge of the shares of stock represented hereby are subject to the terms and conditions (including forfeiture) of the Solid Biosciences Inc. (the Company) 2018 Omnibus Incentive Plan (as amended from time to time, the Plan), and an Award Agreement entered into between the registered owner and the Company dated . Copies of such Plan and Award Agreement are on file at the principal office of the Company.
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(c) Custody. If stock certificates are issued in respect of shares of Restricted Stock, the Committee may require that any stock certificates evidencing such shares be held in custody by the Company until the restrictions thereon shall have lapsed, and that, as a condition of any grant of Restricted Stock, the Participant shall have delivered a duly signed stock power or other instruments of assignment (including a power of attorney), each endorsed in blank with a guarantee of signature if deemed necessary or appropriate by the Company, which would permit transfer to the Company of all or a portion of the shares subject to the Award of Restricted Stock in the event that such Award is forfeited in whole or part.
7.3 Restrictions and Conditions.
Restricted Stock shall be subject to the following restrictions and conditions:
(a) Restriction Period.
(i) The Participant shall not be permitted to Transfer shares of Restricted Stock, and the Restricted Stock shall be subject to a risk of forfeiture (collectively, restrictions) during the period or periods set by the Committee (the Restriction Periods), as set forth in the Restricted Stock Award agreement. The Committee may provide for the lapse of the restrictions in whole or in part (including in installments) based on service, attainment of performance goals, or such other factors or criteria as the Committee may determine, and may waive all or any part of the restrictions at any time subject to Section 7.3(a)(iii).
(ii) If the grant of Restricted Stock or the lapse of restrictions is based on the attainment of performance goals, such performance goals shall be established by the Committee in writing on or before the date the grant of Restricted Stock is made and while the outcome of the performance goals is substantially uncertain and, following the Transition Period, that is permitted under Section 162(m) with regard to an Award of Restricted Stock that is intended to comply with Section 162(m). Such performance goals may incorporate provisions for disregarding (or adjusting for) changes in accounting methods, corporate transactions (including dispositions and acquisitions), and other similar events or circumstances. Following the Transition Period, with regard to an Award of Restricted Stock that is intended to comply with Section 162(m), (A) to the extent that any such provision set forth in the prior sentence would create impermissible discretion under Section 162(m) or otherwise violate Section 162(m), such provision shall be of no force or effect, and (B) the applicable performance goals shall be based on one or more of the Performance Criteria. For the avoidance of doubt, during the Transition Period, the Committee may establish such performance goals as it determines.
(iii) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, Awards of Restricted Stock shall be subject to a minimum vesting schedule of at least one year from the date of grant, except that the Committee may provide (but shall have no obligation to do so) for accelerated vesting before the completion of such one-year period upon a Change in Control or the Participants Disability or death. Notwithstanding the foregoing sentence, subject to the limitations set forth in Section 4, Awards with respect to up to five percent (5%) of the total number of shares of Common Stock reserved for Awards under the Plan may be granted to any Participant without regard to any minimum vesting requirements.
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(b) Rights as a Stockholder. Except as otherwise determined by the Committee, the Participant shall have all the rights of a holder of shares of Common Stock of the Company with respect to Restricted Stock, subject to the following provisions of this Section 7.3(b). Except as otherwise determined by the Committee, (i) the Participant shall have no right to tender shares of Restricted Stock, (ii) Dividends on shares of Restricted Stock shall be withheld, in each case, while the Restricted Stock is subject to restrictions, and (iii) in no event shall Dividends payable thereunder be paid unless and until the shares of Restricted Stock to which they relate no longer are subject to a risk of forfeiture. Dividends that are not paid currently shall be credited to bookkeeping accounts on the Companys records for purposes of the Plan and, except as otherwise determined by the Committee, shall not accrue interest. Such Dividends shall be paid to the Participant in the same form as paid on the Common Stock upon the lapse of the restrictions. The obligation of the Company to pay any Dividends hereunder upon lapse of the applicable restrictions shall be a general, unsecured obligation of the Company payable solely from the general assets of the Company. In no event shall the Company be required, or have any obligation, to set aside, or hold in escrow or trust, any funds for the purpose of paying such Dividends.
(c) Termination. Upon a Participants Termination for any reason during the Restriction Period, all Restricted Stock still subject to restriction will vest or be forfeited in accordance with the terms and conditions established by the Committee at grant, or, if no rights of a Participant are reduced, thereafter.
(d) Lapse of Restrictions. If and when the Restriction Period expires without a prior forfeiture of the Restricted Stock, the certificates for such shares shall be delivered to the Participant, and any and all unpaid distributions or Dividends payable thereunder shall be paid. All legends shall be removed from said certificates at the time of delivery to the Participant, except as otherwise required by applicable law or other limitations imposed by the Committee.
ARTICLE VIII
OTHER STOCK-BASED AWARDS
8.1 Other Awards.
The Committee is authorized to grant Other Stock-Based Awards that are payable in, valued in whole or in part by reference to, or otherwise based on or related to shares of Common Stock, including but not limited to, shares of Common Stock awarded purely as a bonus and not subject to any restrictions or conditions, shares of Common Stock in payment of the amounts due under an incentive or performance plan sponsored or maintained by the Company or an Affiliate, stock appreciation rights, stock equivalent units, restricted stock units, Performance Shares, Performance Units, and Awards valued by reference to book value of shares of Common Stock.
The Committee shall have authority to determine the Participants to whom, and the time or times at which, Other Stock-Based Awards shall be made, the number of shares of Common Stock to be awarded pursuant to such Awards, and all other terms and conditions of the Awards.
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The Committee may condition the grant or vesting of Other Stock-Based Awards upon the attainment of performance goals (including, performance goals based on the Performance Criteria) or such other factors as the Committee may determine. If the grant or vesting of an Other Stock-Based Award is based on the attainment of performance goals, such performance goals shall be established by the Committee in writing on or before the date the grant of Other Stock-Based Award is made and while the outcome of the performance goals is substantially uncertain and, following the Transition Period, that is permitted under Section 162(m) with regard to an Other Stock-Based Award that is intended to comply with Section 162(m). Such performance goals may incorporate provisions for disregarding (or adjusting for) changes in accounting methods, corporate transactions (including dispositions and acquisitions), and other similar events or circumstances. Following the Transition Period, with regard to an Other Stock-Based Award that is intended to comply with Section 162(m), (a) to the extent any such provision set forth in the prior sentence would create impermissible discretion under Section 162(m) or otherwise violate Section 162(m), such provision shall be of no force or effect, and (b) the applicable performance goals shall be based on one or more of the Performance Criteria. For the avoidance of doubt, during the Transition Period, the Committee may establish such performance goals as it determines.
8.2 Terms and Conditions.
Other Stock-Based Awards made pursuant to this Article VIII shall be subject to the following terms and conditions:
(a) Non-Transferability. The Participant may not Transfer Other Stock-Based Awards or the Common Stock underlying such Awards before the date on which the underlying Common Stock is issued, or, if later, the date on which any restriction, performance, or deferral period applicable to such Common Stock lapses.
(b) Dividends. The Committee shall determine to what extent, and under what conditions, the Participant shall have the right to receive Dividends with respect to shares of Common Stock covered by Other Stock-Based Awards. Except as otherwise determined by the Committee, Dividends with respect to unvested Other Stock-Based Awards shall be withheld until such Other Stock-Based Awards vest. Dividends that are not paid currently shall be credited to bookkeeping accounts on the Companys records for purposes of the Plan and, except as otherwise determined by the Committee, shall not accrue interest. Such Dividends shall be paid to the Participant in the same form as paid on the Common Stock or such other form as is determined by the Committee upon the lapse of the restrictions. The obligation of the Company to pay any Dividends hereunder upon lapse of the applicable restrictions shall be a general, unsecured obligation of the Company payable solely from the general assets of the Company. In no event shall the Company be required, or have any obligation, to set aside, or hold in escrow or trust, any funds for the purpose of paying such Dividends.
(c) Vesting. Other Stock Based Awards and any underlying Common Stock shall vest or be forfeited to the extent set forth in the applicable Award agreement or as otherwise determined by the Committee. At the expiration of any applicable Performance Period, the Committee shall determine the extent to which the relevant performance goals are achieved and the portion of each Other Stock-Based Award that has been earned. The Committee may, at or after grant, accelerate the vesting of all or any part of any Other Stock-Based Award. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, Other Stock-Based Awards shall be subject to a minimum vesting schedule of at least one year from the date of grant, except that the Committee may provide (but shall have no obligation to do so) for
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accelerated vesting before the completion of such one-year period upon a Change in Control or the Participants Disability or death. Notwithstanding the foregoing sentence, subject to the limitations set forth in Section 4, Awards with respect to up to five percent (5%) of the total number of shares of Common Stock reserved for Awards under the Plan may be granted to any Participant without regard to any minimum vesting requirements.
(d) Payment. Following the Committees determination in accordance with subsection (c) above, shares of Common Stock or, as determined by the Committee, the cash equivalent of such shares, shall be delivered to the Participant, or his legal representative, in an amount equal to such individuals earned Other Stock-Based Award. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee may exercise negative discretion by providing in an Other Stock-Based Award the discretion to pay an amount less than otherwise would be provided under the applicable level of attainment of the performance goals or subject the payment of all or part of any Other Stock-Based Award to additional vesting, forfeiture, and deferral conditions as it deems appropriate.
(e) Detrimental Activity. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee in the applicable Award agreement, (A) in the event the Participant engages in Detrimental Activity before any vesting of such Other Stock-Based Award, all unvested Other Stock-Based Award shall be immediately forfeited, and (B) in the event the Participant engages in Detrimental Activity during the one-year period after any vesting of such Other Stock-Based Award, the Committee shall be entitled to recover from the Participant (at any time within the one-year period after such engagement in Detrimental Activity) an amount equal to any gain the Participant realized from any Other Stock-Based Award that had vested in the period referred to above. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee in the applicable Award agreement, this Section 8.2(e) shall cease to apply upon a Change in Control.
(f) Price. Common Stock issued on a bonus basis under this Article VIII may be issued for no cash consideration; Common Stock purchased pursuant to a purchase right awarded under this Article VIII shall be priced as determined by the Committee.
(g) Termination. Upon a Participants Termination for any reason during the Performance Period, the Other Stock-Based Awards will vest or be forfeited in accordance with the terms and conditions established by the Committee at grant or, if no rights of the Participant are reduced, thereafter.
ARTICLE IX
PERFORMANCE-BASED CASH AWARDS
9.1 Performance-Based Cash Awards.
The Committee shall have authority to determine the Eligible Employees and Consultants to whom, and the time or times at which, Performance-Based Cash Awards shall be made, the dollar amount to be awarded pursuant to such Performance-Based Cash Award, and all other conditions for the payment of the Performance-Based Cash Award.
Except as otherwise provided herein, the Committee shall condition the right to payment of any Performance-Based Cash Award upon the attainment of specified performance goals (including performance goals based on the Performance Criteria) established pursuant to Section 9.2(c) and such other factors as the Committee may determine, including to comply with the requirements of Section 162(m). The Committee may establish different performance goals for different Participants.
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Subject to Section 9.2(c), for any Participant the Committee may specify a targeted Performance-Based Cash Award for a Performance Period (each an Individual Target Award). An Individual Target Award may be expressed, at the Committees discretion, as a fixed dollar amount, a percentage of the Participants base pay, as a percentage of a bonus pool funded by a formula based on achievement of performance goals, or an amount determined pursuant to an objective formula or standard. The Committees establishment of an Individual Target Award for a Participant for a Performance Period shall not imply or require that the same level or any Individual Target Award be established for the Participant for any subsequent Performance Period or for any other Participant for that Performance Period or any subsequent Performance Period. At the time the performance goals are established (as provided in Section 9.2(c)), the Committee shall prescribe a formula to determine the maximum and minimum percentages (which may be greater or less than 100% of an Individual Target Award) that may be earned or payable based upon the degree of attainment of the performance goals during the Performance Period. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Committee may exercise negative discretion by providing in an Individual Target Award the discretion to pay a Participant an amount that is less than the Participants Individual Target Award (or attained percentages thereof) regardless of the degree of attainment of the performance goals; provided that, except as otherwise specified by the Committee with respect to an Individual Target Award, no discretion to reduce a Performance-Based Cash Award earned based on achievement of the applicable performance goals shall be permitted for any Performance Period in which a Change in Control occurs, or during such Performance Period with regard to the prior Performance Periods if the Performance-Based Cash Awards for the prior Performance Periods have not been paid by the time of the Change in Control, with regard to individuals who were Participants at the time of the Change in Control.
9.2 Terms and Conditions.
Performance-Based Cash Awards shall be subject to the following terms and conditions:
(a) Committee Certification. At the expiration of the applicable Performance Period, the Committee shall determine and certify in writing the extent to which the performance goals established pursuant to Section 9.2(c) are achieved and, if applicable, the percentage of the Performance-Based Cash Award that has been vested and earned.
(b) Waiver of Limitation. In the event of the Participants Disability or death, or in cases of special circumstances (to the extent permitted under Section 162(m) with regard to a Performance-Based Cash Award that is intended to comply with Section 162(m)), the Committee may waive in whole or in part any or all of the limitations imposed thereunder with respect to any or all of a Performance-Based Cash Award.
(c) Performance Goals, Formulae, or Standards. The performance goals for the earning of Performance-Based Cash Awards shall be established by the Committee in writing on or before the date the grant of Performance-Based Cash Award is made and while the outcome of the performance goals is substantially uncertain and, following the Transition Period, that is permitted under Section 162(m) with regard to a Performance-Based Cash Award that is intended to comply with Section 162(m). Such performance goals may incorporate provisions
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for disregarding (or adjusting for) changes in accounting methods, corporate transactions (including dispositions and acquisitions), and other similar events or circumstances. Following the Transition Period, with regard to a Performance-Based Cash Award that is intended to comply with Section 162(m), (i) to the extent any such provision set forth in the prior sentence would create impermissible discretion under Section 162(m) or otherwise violate Section 162(m), such provision shall be of no force or effect and (ii) the applicable performance goals shall be based on one or more of the Performance Criteria. For the avoidance of doubt, during the Transition Period, the Committee may establish such performance goals as it determines.
(d) Payment. Following the Committees determination and certification in accordance with subsection (a) above, the earned Performance-Based Cash Award amount shall be paid to the Participant or his legal representative, in accordance with the terms and conditions set forth in the Performance-Based Cash Award agreement, but in no event, except as provided in the next sentence, shall such amount be paid later than the later of: (i) March 15 of the year following the year in which the applicable Performance Period ends (or, if later, the year in which the Award is earned); or (ii) two and one-half months after the expiration of the fiscal year of the Company in which the applicable Performance Period ends. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee may place such conditions on the payment of all or any portion of any Performance-Based Cash Award as the Committee may determine and before the beginning of a Performance Period, the Committee may (A) provide that the payment of all or any portion of any Performance-Based Cash Award shall be deferred, and (B) permit a Participant to elect to defer receipt of all or a portion of any Performance-Based Cash Award. Any Performance-Based Cash Award deferred by a Participant in accordance with the terms and conditions established by the Committee shall not increase (between the date on which the Performance-Based Cash Award is credited to any deferred compensation program applicable to such Participant and the payment date) by an amount that would result in such deferral being deemed as an increase in the amount of compensation under Section 162(m). To the extent applicable, any deferral under this Section 9.2(d) shall be made in a manner intended to comply with or be exempt from the applicable requirements of Section 409A. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee may exercise negative discretion by providing in a Performance-Based Cash Award the discretion to pay an amount less than otherwise would be provided under the applicable level of attainment of the performance goals.
(e) Termination. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee at the time of grant (or, if no rights of the Participant (or, in the case of his death, his estate) are reduced, thereafter), no Performance-Based Cash Award or pro rata portion thereof shall be payable to any Participant who incurs a Termination before the date such Performance-Based Cash Award is paid and the Performance-Based Cash Awards only shall be deemed to be earned when actually paid.
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ARTICLE X
CHANGE IN CONTROL PROVISIONS
10.1 In the event of a Change in Control of the Company, except as otherwise provided by the Committee in an Award agreement or otherwise in writing, a Participants unvested Award shall not vest and a Participants Award shall be treated in accordance with one of the following methods as determined by the Committee:
(a) Awards, whether or not then vested, may be continued, assumed, have new rights substituted therefor, or be treated in accordance with Section 4.2(d), and Restricted Stock or other Awards may, where appropriate in the discretion of the Committee, receive the same distribution as other Common Stock on such terms as determined by the Committee; provided that, the Committee may decide to award additional Restricted Stock or any other Award in lieu of any cash distribution. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, any assumption or substitution of Incentive Stock Options shall be structured in a manner intended to comply with the requirements of Treasury Regulation § 1.424-1 (and any amendments thereto).
(b) Awards may be canceled in exchange for an amount of cash equal to the Change in Control Price (as defined below) per share of Common Stock covered by such Awards), less, in the case of an Appreciation Award, the exercise price per share of Common Stock covered by such Award. The Change in Control Price means the price per share of Common Stock paid in the Change in Control transaction.
(c) Appreciation Awards may be cancelled without payment, if the Change in Control Price is less than the exercise price per share of such Appreciation Awards.
Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Committee may provide for accelerated vesting or lapse of restrictions, of an Award at any time.
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ARTICLE XI
TERMINATION OR AMENDMENT OF PLAN
Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Board, or the Committee (to the extent permitted by law), may at any time, and from time to time, amend, in whole or in part, any or all of the provisions of the Plan (including any amendment deemed necessary or advisable to ensure that the Company may comply with any regulatory requirement referred to in Article XIII or Section 409A), or suspend or terminate it entirely, retroactively or otherwise; provided, however, that, unless otherwise required by law or specifically provided herein, the rights of a Participant with respect to Awards granted before such amendment, suspension, or termination may not be reduced in any material respect without the consent of such Participant and, provided further, without the approval of the holders of the Companys Common Stock entitled to vote in accordance with applicable law, no amendment may be made that would (a) increase the aggregate number of shares of Common Stock that may be issued under the Plan (except by operation of Section 4.2); (b) increase the maximum individual Participant limits under Section 4.1(b) (except by operation of Section 4.2); (c) change the classification of individuals eligible to receive Awards under the Plan; (d) extend the maximum term of Options; (e) alter the Performance Criteria; (f) other than adjustments or substitutions in accordance with Section 4.2, amend the terms of outstanding Awards to reduce the exercise price of outstanding Stock Options or Appreciation Awards, or cancel outstanding Stock Options or Appreciation Awards (where, before the reduction or cancellation, the exercise price exceeds the Fair Market Value on the date of cancellation) in exchange for cash, other Awards, or Stock Options or Appreciation Awards with an exercise price that is less than the exercise price of the original Stock Options or Appreciation Awards; or (g) otherwise require stockholder approval in order for the Plan or any of the Awards issued hereunder to continue to comply with applicable law (including Sections 162(m) and 422 of the Code) or the rules of any applicable securities exchange or system on which the Companys securities are listed or traded at the request of the Company.
The Committee may amend the terms of any Award theretofore granted, prospectively or retroactively; provided that no such amendment reduces in any material respect the rights of any Participant without the Participants consent. Actions taken by the Committee in accordance with Article IV shall not be deemed to reduce the rights of any Participant.
Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Board or the Committee may amend the Plan or any Award at any time without a Participants consent to comply with Section 409A or any other applicable law.
ARTICLE XII
UNFUNDED PLAN
The Plan is intended to constitute an unfunded plan for incentive and deferred compensation. With respect to any payments as to which a Participant has a fixed and vested interest but which are not yet made to a Participant by the Company, nothing contained herein shall give any such Participant any rights that are greater than those of a general unsecured creditor of the Company.
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ARTICLE XIII
GENERAL PROVISIONS
13.1 Legend.
The Committee may require each person receiving shares of Common Stock pursuant to an Award to represent to and agree with the Company in writing that the Participant is acquiring the shares without a view to distribution thereof and such other securities law-related representations as the Committee shall request. In addition to any legend required by the Plan, the certificates or book entry accounts for such shares may include any legend that the Committee deems appropriate to reflect any restrictions on Transfer.
All certificates or book entry accounts for shares of Common Stock delivered under the Plan shall be subject to such stop transfer orders and other restrictions as the Committee may deem advisable under the rules, regulations, and other requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission, any stock exchange upon which the Common Stock is then listed or any national automated quotation system on which the Common Stock is then quoted, any applicable Federal or state securities law, and any applicable corporate law, and the Committee may cause a legend or legends to be put on any such certificates to make appropriate reference to such restrictions. If necessary or advisable to prevent a violation of applicable securities laws or to avoid the imposition of public company reporting requirements, then, notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, any stock-settled Awards shall be paid in cash in an amount equal to the Fair Market Value on the date of settlement of such Awards.
13.2 Other Plans.
Nothing contained in the Plan shall prevent the Board from adopting other or additional compensation arrangements, subject to stockholder approval if such approval is required; and such arrangements may be either generally applicable or applicable only in specific cases.
13.3 No Right to Employment, Consultancy, or Directorship.
Neither the Plan nor the grant of any Award hereunder shall give any Participant or other person any right to employment, consultancy, or directorship by the Company or any Affiliate, or limit in any way the right of the Company or any Affiliate by which an employee is employed or a Consultant or Non-Employee Director is retained to terminate their employment, consultancy, or directorship at any time.
13.4 Withholding of Taxes.
The Company or any Affiliate shall have the right to deduct from any payment to be made pursuant to the Plan, or to otherwise require, before the issuance or delivery of any shares of Common Stock or the payment of any cash, payment by the Participant of any Federal, foreign, state, or local taxes required by law to be withheld. Upon the vesting of Restricted Stock (or other Award that is taxable upon vesting), or upon making an election under Section 83(b) of the Code, a Participant shall pay all required withholding to the Company or any Affiliate. Any statutorily required withholding obligation with regard to any Participant may be satisfied, subject to the consent of the Committee, by reducing the number of shares of Common Stock otherwise deliverable or by delivering shares of Common Stock already owned. Any fraction of a share of Common Stock required to satisfy such tax obligations shall be disregarded, and the amount due shall be paid instead in cash by the Participant.
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13.5 No Assignment of Benefits.
No Award or other benefit payable under the Plan shall, except as otherwise specifically provided in the Plan or permitted by the Committee, be Transferable in any manner, and any attempt to Transfer any such benefit shall be null and void, and any such benefit shall not in any manner be liable for or subject to the debts, contracts, liabilities, engagements, or torts of any person who shall be entitled to such benefit, nor shall it be subject to attachment or legal process for or against such person.
13.6 Listing and Other Conditions.
(a) Unless otherwise determined by the Committee, as long as the Common Stock is listed on a national securities exchange or system sponsored by a national securities association, the issuance of shares of Common Stock pursuant to an Award shall be conditioned upon such shares being listed on such exchange or system. The Company shall have no obligation to issue such shares unless and until such shares are so listed, and the right to exercise any Stock Option or other Exercisable Award with respect to such shares shall be suspended until such listing has been effected.
(b) If at any time counsel to the Company shall be of the opinion that any offer or sale of Common Stock pursuant to an Award is or may be unlawful or prohibited, or will or may result in the imposition of excise taxes on the Company, under the statutes, rules, or regulations of any applicable jurisdiction or under the rules of the national securities exchange on which the Common Stock then is listed, the Company shall have no obligation to make such offer or sale, or to make any application or to effect or to maintain any qualification or registration under the Securities Act or otherwise, with respect to the Common Stock or Awards, and the right to exercise any Stock Option or other Exercisable Award shall be suspended until, in the opinion of said counsel, such offer or sale shall be lawful, permitted, or will not result in the imposition of excise taxes on the Company.
(c) Upon termination of any period of suspension under this Section 13.6, any Award affected by such suspension that shall not then have expired or terminated shall be reinstated as to all shares available before such suspension and as to shares that would otherwise have become available during the period of such suspension, but no such suspension shall extend the term of any Award.
(d) A Participant shall be required to supply the Company with certificates, representations, and information that the Company requests and otherwise cooperate with the Company in obtaining any listing, registration, qualification, exemption, consent, or approval the Company deems necessary or appropriate.
13.7 Governing Law.
The Plan and matters arising under or related to it shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the internal laws of the State of Delaware without giving effect to its principles of conflicts of laws.
13.8 Construction.
Wherever any words are used in the Plan in the masculine, feminine, or neutral gender they shall be construed as though they were also used in the masculine, feminine, or neutral gender (as the case may be) in all cases where they would so apply. As used herein, (a) or shall mean and/or, and (b) including or include shall mean including, without limitation. Any reference herein to an agreement in writing shall be deemed to include an electronic writing to the extent permitted by applicable law.
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13.9 No Acquired Rights.
By participating in the Plan, each Participant is deemed to acknowledge and accept that the Committee has the sole discretion to amend or terminate the Plan, to the extent permitted hereunder, at any time and that the opportunity given to a Participant to participate in the Plan is at the sole discretion of the Committee and does not obligate the Company or any Affiliate to offer such participation in the future (whether on the same or different terms). By participating in the Plan, each Participant is deemed further to acknowledge and accept that (i) such Participants participation in the Plan is not to be considered part of any normal or expected compensation, (ii) the value of Awards granted to a Participant shall not be used for purposes of determining any benefits or compensation payable to the Participant or the Participants beneficiaries or estate under any benefit arrangement of the Company or its Affiliates, and (iii) the termination of the Participants employment with the Company or an Affiliate under any circumstance whatsoever will not give the Participant any claim or right of action against the Company or any of its Affiliates in respect of any lost rights under the Plan that may arise as a result of such termination of employment.
13.10 Data Protection.
By participating in the Plan, each Participant shall consent to the holding and processing of personal information provided by such Participant to the Company, any Affiliate, trustee, or third-party service provider for all purposes relating to the operation of the Plan. These include: (i) administering and maintaining Participant records; (ii) providing information to the Company, Affiliates, trustees of any employee benefit trust, registrars, brokers, or third-party administrators of the Plan; (iii) providing information to future purchasers or merger partners of the Company or any Affiliate or the business in which the Participant works; and (iv) transferring personal information about the Participant to any country or territory that may not provide the same protection for the information as the Participants home country. Such personal information may include the Participants name, home address, and telephone number; date of birth; social security or insurance number; other identification number; salary; nationality; job title; any shares or directorships held in the Company or an Affiliate; and details of all Awards or other entitlement to shares awarded, canceled, exercised, vested, unvested, or outstanding in a Participants favor.
13.11 Costs.
The Company shall bear all expenses associated with administering the Plan, including expenses of issuing Common Stock pursuant to any Awards.
13.12 No Right to Same Benefits.
The provisions of Awards need not be the same with respect to each Participant, and each Award to an individual Participant need not be the same.
13.13 Death or Disability.
The Committee may require the transferee of a Participant to supply it with written notice of the Participants death or Disability and to supply it with a copy of the will (in the case of the Participants death) or such other evidence as the Committee deems necessary or advisable to establish the validity of the transfer of an Award. The Committee also may require that the transferee agree to be bound by all of the terms and conditions of the Plan.
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13.14 Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act.
All elections and transactions under the Plan by persons subject to Section 16 of the Exchange Act involving shares of Common Stock are intended to comply with any applicable exemptive condition under Rule 16b-3. The Committee may establish and adopt written administrative guidelines, designed to facilitate compliance with Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act, as it may deem necessary or advisable for the administration and operation of the Plan and the transaction of business thereunder.
13.15 Section 409A.
Although the Company does not guarantee to a Participant the particular tax treatment of any Award, all Awards are intended to comply with, or be exempt from, the requirements of Section 409A, and the Plan and any Award agreement shall be limited, construed, and interpreted in accordance with such intent. To the extent that any Award constitutes non-qualified deferred compensation pursuant to Section 409A (a Section 409A Covered Award), it is intended to be paid in a manner that will comply with Section 409A. In no event shall the Company be liable for any additional tax, interest, or penalties that may be imposed on a Participant by Section 409A or for any damages or other penalties or awards for failing to comply with Section 409A. Notwithstanding anything herein or in an Award to the contrary, the following provisions shall apply to Section 409A Covered Awards:
(a) A termination of employment shall not be deemed to have occurred for purposes of any provision of a Section 409A Covered Award providing for payment upon or following a termination of the Participants employment unless such termination is also a separation from service within the meaning of Section 409A and, for purposes of any such provision of a Section 409A Covered Award, references to a termination, termination of employment, or like terms shall mean separation from service within the meaning of Section 409A. Notwithstanding anything herein or in an Award to the contrary, if the Participant is deemed on the date of the Participants Termination to be a specified employee within the meaning of that term under Section 409A(a)(2)(B) of the Code and using the identification methodology selected by the Company from time to time, or if none, the default methodology set forth in Section 409A, then with regard to any such payment under a Section 409A Covered Award, to the extent required to be delayed in compliance with Section 409A(a)(2)(B) of the Code, such payment shall not be made before the earlier of (i) the expiration of the six-month period measured from the date of the Participants separation from service, and (ii) the date of the Participants death. All payments delayed pursuant to this Section 13.15(a) shall be paid to the Participant on the first day of the seventh month following the date of the Participants separation from service or, if earlier, on the date of the Participants death.
(b) With respect to any payment pursuant to a Section 409A Covered Award that is triggered upon a Change in Control, unless otherwise provided by the Committee in the applicable Award agreement, the settlement of such Award shall not occur until the earliest of (i) the Change in Control if such Change in Control constitutes a change in the ownership of the corporation, a change in effective control of the corporation, or a change in the ownership of a substantial portion of the assets of the corporation, within the meaning of
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Section 409A(a)(2)(A)(v) of the Code, (ii) the date such Award otherwise would be settled pursuant to the terms of the applicable Award agreement, and (iii) the Participants separation from service within the meaning of Section 409A, subject to Section 13.15(a).
(c) For purposes of Section 409A, a Participants right to receive any installment payments under the Plan or pursuant to an Award shall be treated as a right to receive a series of separate and distinct payments.
(d) Whenever a payment under the Plan or pursuant to an Award specifies a payment period with reference to a number of days (e.g., payment shall be made within 30 days following the date of termination), the actual date of payment within the specified period shall be within the sole discretion of the Company.
13.16 Successor and Assigns.
The Plan shall be binding on all successors and permitted assigns of a Participant, including the estate of such Participant and the executor, administrator, or trustee of such estate.
13.17 Severability of Provisions.
If any provision of the Plan shall be held invalid or unenforceable, such invalidity or unenforceability shall not affect any other provisions hereof, and the Plan shall be construed and enforced as if such provisions had not been included.
13.18 Participants Subject to Taxation Outside the U.S.; No Tax Equalization.
With respect to a Participant who is subject to taxation in a country other than the United States, the Committee may grant Awards to such Participant on such terms and conditions as the Committee deems appropriate to comply with the laws of the applicable country, and the Committee may create such procedures, addenda, and subplans and make such modifications as may, in the Committees discretion, be necessary or desirable to comply with such laws. Neither the Company nor any Affiliate shall have any responsibility to such Participant with respect to any taxes owed or owing in or to any jurisdiction that such Participant incurs as a result of receiving an Award and becoming a Participant in the Plan, nor shall the Company or any Affiliate provide any tax equalization payment to any Participant in respect of taxes owed or owing in or to any jurisdiction by a Participant.
13.19 Payments to Minors, Etc.
Any benefit payable to or for the benefit of a minor, an incompetent person, or other person incapable of receipt thereof shall be deemed paid when paid to such persons guardian or to the party providing or reasonably appearing to provide for the care of such person, and such payment shall fully discharge the Committee, the Board, the Company, its Affiliates, and their employees, agents, and representatives with respect thereto.
13.20 Headings and Captions.
The headings and captions herein are provided for reference and convenience only, shall not be considered part of the Plan, and shall not be employed in the construction of the Plan.
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13.21 Recoupment.
In addition to any recoupment provisions set forth herein relating to Detrimental Activity, all Awards granted or other compensation paid by the Company under the Plan, including any shares of Common Stock issued under any Award thereunder, will be subject to: (i) any compensation recapture policies established by the Board or the Committee from time to time and in effect at the time of grant of the Award, and (ii) any compensation recapture policies to the extent required pursuant to any applicable law (including, without limitation, the Dodd-Frank Act) or the rules and regulations of any national securities exchange on which the shares of Common Stock are then traded.
13.22 Reformation.
If any provision regarding Detrimental Activity or any other provision set forth in the Plan or an Award agreement is found by any court of competent jurisdiction or arbitrator to be invalid, null, void, or unenforceable or to be excessively broad as to duration, activity, geographic application, or subject, such provision or provisions shall be construed by limiting or reducing them to the extent legally permitted so as to be enforceable to the maximum extent compatible with then applicable law.
13.23 Electronic Communications.
Notwithstanding anything herein or in any Award to the contrary, any Award agreement, notice of exercise of an Exercisable Award, or other document or notice required or permitted by the Plan or an Award that is required to be delivered in writing may, to the extent determined by the Committee, be delivered and accepted electronically. Signatures also may be electronic if permitted by the Committee. The term written agreement as used in the Plan shall include any document that is delivered or accepted electronically.
13.24 Agreement.
As a condition to the grant of an Award, if requested by the Company and the lead underwriter of any public offering of the Common Stock (the Lead Underwriter), a Participant shall irrevocably agree, and by acceptance of an Award shall irrevocably be deemed to have agreed, not to sell, contract to sell, grant any option to purchase, transfer the economic risk of ownership in, make any short sale of, pledge, or otherwise Transfer or dispose of, any interest in any Common Stock or any securities convertible into, derivative of, or exchangeable or exercisable for Common Stock, or any other rights to purchase or acquire Common Stock (except Common Stock included in such public offering or acquired on the public market after such offering) during such period of time following the effective date of a registration statement of the Company filed under the Securities Act that the Lead Underwriter shall specify (the Lock-up Period). The Participant shall further agree to sign such documents as may be requested by the Lead Underwriter to effect the foregoing and agree that the Company may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to Common Stock acquired pursuant to an Award until the end of such Lock-up Period.
13.25 Transition Period.
The Plan has been adopted by the Board before the occurrence of a Registration Date. The Plan is intended to constitute a plan described in Treasury Regulation § 1.162-27(f)(1).
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ARTICLE XIV
EFFECTIVE DATE OF PLAN
The Plan was adopted by the Board on December 13, 2017, to be effective on the date of effectiveness of the registration statement on Form S-1 filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the initial public offering of the Common Stock (the Effective Date). The Plan was approved by the stockholders of the Company on December 18, 2017.
ARTICLE XV
TERM OF PLAN
No Award shall be granted on or after the tenth anniversary of the earlier of (a) the Effective Date or (b) the date of stockholder approval of the Plan, provided that Awards granted before the tenth anniversary of the Plans adoption by the Board may extend beyond that date in accordance with the terms of the Plan. Following the Transition Period, the Company may seek stockholder re-approval of the Performance Criteria to the extent that such stockholder approval is obtained no later than the first stockholder meeting that occurs in the fifth year following the year in which such stockholders previously approved the Performance Criteria. Awards (other than Stock Options or stock appreciation rights) may be based on such Performance Criteria to qualify for the performance-based compensation exception under Section 162(m) of the Code.
35
SOLID BIOSCIENCES INC.
2018 OMNIBUS INCENTIVE PLAN
EXHIBIT A: PERFORMANCE CRITERIA
Performance goals established for purposes of the grant or vesting of performance-based Awards of Restricted Stock, Other Stock-Based Awards, or Performance-Based Cash Awards that are intended to be performance-based under Section 162(m) shall be based on one or more of the following performance criteria (Performance Criteria):
(1) | enterprise value or value creation targets; |
(2) | income or net income; operating income; net operating income or net operating income after tax; operating profit or net operating profit; |
(3) | cash flow, including but not limited to, from operations or free cash flow; |
(4) | specified objectives with regard to limiting the level of increase in all or a portion of bank debt or other long-term or short-term public or private debt or other similar financial obligations, or other capital structure improvements, which may be calculated net of cash balances or other offsets and adjustments as may be established by the Committee; |
(5) | net sales, revenues, net income, or earnings before income tax or other exclusions; |
(6) | operating margin, return on operating revenue, or return on operating profit; |
(7) | return measures (after tax or pre-tax), including return on capital employed, return on invested capital, return on equity, return on assets, return on net assets; |
(8) | market capitalization, earnings per share, fair market value of the shares of the Company, franchise value (net of debt), economic value added; |
(9) | total stockholder return or growth in total stockholder return (with or without dividend reinvestment); |
(10) | financing and other capital raising transactions; |
(11) | proprietary investment results; |
(12) | estimated market share; |
(13) | expansion of sales in additional geographies or markets; |
(14) | expense management/control or reduction (including, without limitation, compensation and benefits expense); |
Ex. A-1
(15) | customer satisfaction; |
(16) | technological improvements/implementation, new product innovation; |
(17) | collections and recoveries; |
(18) | property or asset purchases; |
(19) | litigation and regulatory resolution/implementation goals; |
(20) | leases, contracts, or financings (including renewals, overhead, savings, G&A, and other expense control goals); |
(21) | risk management/implementation; |
(22) | development and implementation of strategic plans or organizational restructuring goals; |
(23) | development and implementation of risk and crisis management programs; compliance requirements and compliance relief; productivity goals; workforce management and succession planning goals; |
(24) | employee satisfaction or staff development; |
(25) | formations of joint ventures or partnerships or the completion of other similar transactions intended to enhance revenue or profitability or to enhance its customer base; |
(26) | licensing or partnership arrangements; |
(27) | progress of partnered programs and partner satisfaction; |
(28) | progress of internal research or development programs; |
(29) | submission of a new drug application (NDA) or the approval of the NDA by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA); |
(30) | submission of an investigational new drug application (IND) or the approval of the IND by the FDA; |
(31) | submission of a therapeutic biologics license application (BLA) or the approval of the BLA by the FDA; |
(32) | submission to, or approval by, a foreign regulatory body of an applicable filing or a product; |
(33) | strategic partnerships or transactions (including in-licensing and out-licensing of intellectual property; |
Ex. A-2
(34) | achievement of a launch of a new drug; |
(35) | initiation or completion of a clinical trial phase; |
(36) | implementation or completion of critical projects; |
(37) | achievement of specified milestones in the discovery and development of one or more of the Companys products; |
(38) | achievement of specified milestones in the commercialization of one or more of the Companys products; |
(39) | achievement of specified milestones in the manufacturing of one or more of the Companys products; |
(40) | achievement of specified regulatory milestones relating to one or more of the Companys products; or |
(41) | completion of a merger, acquisition, or any transaction that results in the sale of all or substantially all of the stock or assets. |
All Performance Criteria may be based upon the attainment of specified levels of the Company (or Affiliate, division, other operational unit, business segment, or administrative department of the Company or any Affiliate) performance under one or more of the measures described above and may be measured relative to the performance of other corporations (or an affiliate, subsidiary, division, other operational unit, business segment, or administrative department of another corporation or its affiliates). Any goal may be expressed as a dollar figure, on a percentage basis (if applicable), or on a per share basis, and goals may be either absolute, relative to a selected peer group or index, or a combination of both. To the extent permitted under Section 162(m), (including compliance with any requirements for stockholder approval), the Committee may: (i) designate additional business criteria on which the Performance Criteria may be based or (ii) adjust, modify, or amend the aforementioned business criteria.
Except as otherwise determined by the Committee in the applicable Award agreement, the measures used in Performance Criteria set under the Plan shall be determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and in a manner consistent with the methods used in the Companys regular reports on Forms 10-K and 10-Q, without regard to any of the following unless otherwise determined by the Committee consistent with the requirements of Section 162(m)(4)(C) of the Code and the regulations thereunder:
(a) all items of gain, loss, or expense for the fiscal year or other applicable Performance Period that are related to special, unusual, or non-recurring items, events, or circumstances affecting the Company (or Affiliate, division, other operational unit, business segment, or administrative department of the Company or any Affiliate) or the financial statements of the Company (or Affiliate, division, other operational unit, business segment, or administrative department of the Company or any Affiliate);
Ex. A-3
(b) all items of gain, loss, or expense for the fiscal year or other applicable Performance Period that are related to (i) the disposal of a business or discontinued operations or (ii) the operations of any business acquired by the Company (or Affiliate, division, other operational unit, business segment, or administrative department of the Company or any Affiliate) during the fiscal year or other applicable Performance Period; and
(c) all items of gain, loss, or expense for the fiscal year or other applicable Performance Period that are related to changes in accounting principles or to changes in applicable law or regulations.
To the extent any Performance Criteria are expressed using any measures that require deviations from GAAP, such deviations shall be at the discretion of the Committee as exercised at the time the Performance Criteria are set and, following the Transition Period, to the extent permitted under Section 162(m).
Ex. A-4
SOLID BIOSCIENCES INC.
2018 OMNIBUS INCENTIVE PLAN
EXHIBIT B: UNITED KINGDOM ADDENDUM
1. | Purpose |
1.1 | The purpose of this United Kingdom Addendum to the Plan (the UK Addendum) is to enable the Committee to grant Awards (being Stock Options, Restricted Stock, Other Stock-Based Awards, or Performance-Based Cash Awards) to certain employees and full-time directors of the Company who are based in the United Kingdom (UK) only. |
1.2 | Awards granted pursuant to the UK Addendum will be non-tax advantaged for UK tax purposes and, to the extent relevant, Awards are granted pursuant to an employee share scheme for the purposes of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000. |
2. | Definitions |
Any terms not defined in this UK Addendum will have the meaning set out in Article II of the Plan.
3. | Terms |
Awards granted pursuant to the UK Addendum shall be governed by the terms of the Plan, subject to any such amendments set out below and by the terms of the individual Award agreement entered into between the Company and the Participant.
4. | Withholding Obligations |
4.1 | The Participant shall be accountable for any income tax and, subject to the following provisions, national insurance liability that is chargeable on any assessable income deriving from the grant, vesting, exercise, transfer, or cancellation (whether for consideration or otherwise) of an Award, or in respect of any additional share or cash consideration acquired as a result of distribution of a dividend, or otherwise in respect of the exercise of an Award. In respect of such assessable income, the Participant shall indemnify the Company and (at the direction of the Company) any Affiliate which is or may be treated as the employer of the Participant in respect of the following (together, the Tax Liabilities): |
(a) | any income tax liability that falls to be paid to Her Majestys Revenue and Customs (HMRC) by the Company (or the relevant employing Affiliate) under the PAYE system as it applies to income tax under the Income Tax (Earnings and Pensions) Act 2003 (ITEPA) and the Pay As You Earn (PAYE) regulations referred to therein; and |
Ex. B-1
(b) | any national insurance liability that falls to be paid to HMRC by the Company (or the relevant employing Affiliate) under the PAYE system as it applies for national insurance purposes under the Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992 and regulations referred to therein, including: |
(i) | all the employees primary Class 1 national insurance contributions; and |
(ii) | to the extent permitted by law, all of the employers secondary Class 1 national insurance contributions. |
4.2 | Pursuant to the indemnity referred to in clause 4.1 above, the Participant shall make such arrangements as the Company requires to meet the cost of the Tax Liabilities, including, at the direction of the Company, any of the following: |
(a) | making a cash payment of an appropriate amount to the relevant employing company whether by cheque, bankers draft, or deduction from salary in time to enable the Company to remit such amount to HMRC before the 14th day following the end of the month in which the event giving rise to the Tax Liabilities occurred; |
(b) | appointing the Company as agent or attorney for the sale of sufficient Shares acquired pursuant to the exercise of any Stock Options or pursuant to the grant, exercise, or vesting of an Award to cover the Tax Liabilities and authorising the payment to the relevant company of the appropriate amount (including all reasonable fees, commissions, and expenses incurred by the relevant employing company in relation to such sale) out of the net proceeds of sale of such Shares; or |
(c) | to the extent permitted by law, entering into: |
(i) | an agreement that allows the Participants employer to recover the whole or any portion of any employers secondary Class 1 National Insurance Contributions in respect of the vesting or exercise of the Award from the Participant; or |
(ii) | an election whereby the employers liability for secondary Class 1 national insurance contributions is transferred to the Participant on terms set out in the election, as approved by HMRC. |
4.3 | The failure by a Participant to make arrangements in line with clause 4.2 above at the request of the Company shall result in the vesting of such Award (other than an Exercisable Award) or the exercise of such Exercisable Award (as applicable) being ineffective, null, and void. |
5. | Section 431 Elections |
Where Shares to be acquired on the exercise or vesting of an Award are considered (at the sole discretion of the Company) to be restricted securities for the purposes of Part 7 of ITEPA, it is a condition of exercise that the Participant (if so directed by the Company) enter into a joint election with the Company (or, if different, the relevant employing Affiliate) pursuant to Section 431 of ITEPA electing that the market value of the shares to be acquired on the exercise or vesting of the Award be calculated as if the Shares were not restricted securities.
Ex. B-2