Proxy2015
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION
Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
(Amendment No. )
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¨ | Preliminary Proxy Statement |
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¨ | Confidential, for Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2)) |
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x | Definitive Proxy Statement |
¨ Definitive Additional Materials
¨ Soliciting Material Pursuant to § 240.14a-12
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BLUE NILE, INC. |
(Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter) |
N/A |
(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement if Other Than the Registrant) |
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BLUE NILE, INC.
411 First Avenue South
Suite 700
Seattle, Washington 98104
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
To Be Held On June 4, 2015
Dear Stockholder:
You are cordially invited to attend the 2015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “Annual Meeting”) of Blue Nile, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Blue Nile”). Notice is hereby given that the Annual Meeting will be held on Thursday, June 4, 2015 at 8:00 a.m. Pacific Time at 411 First Avenue South, Suite 210, Seattle, Washington 98104 for the following purposes:
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1. | To elect our two nominees for director to hold office until the 2018 Annual Meeting of Stockholders; |
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2. | To ratify the selection by the audit committee of the board of directors of Deloitte & Touche LLP as independent registered public accounting firm for Blue Nile for fiscal year ending January 3, 2016; |
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3. | To approve an advisory resolution approving executive compensation; and |
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4. | To conduct any other business properly brought before the Annual Meeting. |
These items of business are more fully described in the Proxy Statement accompanying this Notice.
The record date for the Annual Meeting is April 13, 2015. Only stockholders of record at the close of business on that date may vote at the Annual Meeting or any adjournment thereof. For ten days prior to the Annual Meeting, a complete list of stockholders entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting will be available for examination by any stockholder, for any purpose relating to the Annual Meeting, during ordinary business hours at our principal offices located at 411 First Avenue South, Suite 700, Seattle, Washington 98104.
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By Order of the Board of Directors, |
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Lauren Neiswender |
General Counsel and Corporate Secretary |
Seattle, Washington
April 24, 2015
You are cordially invited to attend the Annual Meeting in person. Directions to our Annual Meeting are available at http://investor.bluenile.com. Whether or not you expect to attend the Annual Meeting, please complete, date, sign and return the proxy mailed to you or vote over the telephone or the Internet as instructed in these materials, as promptly as possible in order to ensure your representation at the Annual Meeting. A return envelope (which is postage prepaid if mailed in the United States) is enclosed for your convenience. Even if you have voted by proxy, you may still vote in person if you attend the Annual Meeting. Please note, however, that if your shares are held of record by a broker, bank or other agent and you wish to vote at the Annual Meeting, you must obtain a proxy issued in your name from that record holder.
Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the Annual Meeting to be Held on
June 4, 2015. Blue Nile's Proxy Statement and Annual Report to security holders for the fiscal
year ended January 4, 2015 are also available at http://investor.bluenile.com.
2015 SHAREHOLDER VOTING AND MEETING INFORMATION
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Date & Time: | June 4, 2015 |
| 8:00 a.m. Pacific Time |
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Place: | Blue Nile, Inc. |
| 411 First Avenue South - Suite 210 |
| Seattle, WA 98104 |
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Voting: | Shareholders as of the record date, April 13, 2015, are entitled to vote. |
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HOW TO CAST YOUR VOTE
You can vote by any of the following methods:
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| | Internet (http://www.voteproxy.com) until 8:59 p.m. Pacific Time on Wednesday, June 3, 2015. |
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| | Telephone, if you requested printed materials, by using the toll-free number listed on your proxy card until 8:59 p.m. Pacific Time on Wednesday, June 3, 2015. |
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| | Mail, by completing, signing, and returning your proxy or voting instruction card to us before the Annual Meeting at 8:00 a.m. Pacific Time (11:00 a.m. Eastern Time) on June 4, 2015.
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| | In person, if you are a shareholder of record, by voting your shares at the Annual Meeting. If your shares are held in the name of a broker, nominee, or other intermediary, you must obtain a proxy, executed in your favor, to bring to the meeting. |
VOTING MATTERS
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Proposal | Board Vote Recommendation |
1 – Election of Directors | FOR each Director Nominee |
2 – Ratification of Selection of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | FOR |
3 – Advisory Vote Approving Executive Compensation | FOR |
BOARD NOMINEES
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Name | Age | Director Since | Independent | Committee Memberships |
Michael Potter | 53 | 2007 | X | Audit, Chair |
Mary Alice Taylor | 65 | 2000 | X | Nominating and Corporate Governance, Chair |
BLUE NILE, INC.
411 First Avenue South
Suite 700
Seattle, Washington 98104
PROXY STATEMENT
FOR THE 2015 ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
Thursday, June 4, 2015
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THESE PROXY MATERIALS AND VOTING
Why did I receive a notice regarding the availability of proxy materials on the Internet?
Pursuant to rules adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), Blue Nile, Inc. (sometimes referred to herein as “we,” “Blue Nile,” or the “Company”) has elected to provide access to our proxy materials over the Internet. Accordingly, we have sent you a Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy Materials (the “Notice”).
Why are the proxy materials being made available to me?
We are making proxy materials available to you because the board of directors is soliciting your proxy to vote at the 2015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “Annual Meeting”). You are invited to attend the Annual Meeting to vote on the proposals described in this proxy statement. All shareholders will have the ability to access the proxy materials on the website referred to in the Notice or request to receive a printed set of the proxy materials. Instructions on how to access the proxy materials over the Internet or to request a printed copy may be found in the Notice.
We intend to mail the Notice on or about April 24, 2015 to all stockholders of record entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting.
Will I receive any other proxy materials by mail?
We may send you a proxy card, along with a second Notice, on or after May 4, 2015.
How do I attend the Annual Meeting?
The meeting will be held on Thursday, June 4, 2015 at 8:00 a.m. Pacific Time. Directions to the Annual Meeting may be found at http://investor.bluenile.com. Information about how to vote in person at the Annual Meeting is discussed below.
Who may vote at the Annual Meeting?
Only stockholders of record at the close of business on April 13, 2015 will be entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting. On this record date, there were 11,876,810 shares of common stock outstanding and entitled to vote.
Stockholder of Record: Shares Registered in Your Name. If on April 13, 2015 your shares were registered directly in your name with our transfer agent, American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, then you are a stockholder of record. As a stockholder of record, you may vote in person at the Annual Meeting or vote by proxy. Whether or not you plan to attend the Annual Meeting, please fill out and return the proxy card or vote by proxy over the telephone or on the Internet as instructed below to ensure your vote is counted.
Beneficial Owner: Shares Registered in the Name of Broker or Bank. If on April 13, 2015 your shares were held not in your name, but rather in an account at a brokerage firm, bank or similar organization, then you are the beneficial owner of shares held in “street name” and the Notice is being forwarded to you by that organization. The organization holding your account is considered to be the stockholder of record for purposes of voting at the Annual Meeting. As a beneficial owner, you have the right to direct your broker or other agent regarding how to vote the shares in your account. You are also invited to attend the Annual Meeting. However, since you are not the stockholder of record, you may not vote your shares in person at the meeting unless you request and obtain a valid proxy from your broker or other agent.
What proposals will be voted on at the meeting?
There are three proposals scheduled to be voted on at the meeting:
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1. | To elect our two nominees for director to hold office until the 2018 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (Proposal 1); |
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2. | To ratify the selection by the audit committee of the board of directors of Deloitte & Touche LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for fiscal year ending January 3, 2016 (Proposal 2); and |
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3. | To approve an advisory resolution approving executive compensation (Proposal 3). |
We will also consider any other business that properly comes before the meeting. As of the record date, we are not aware of any other matters to be submitted for consideration at the meeting. If any other matters are properly brought before the meeting, the persons named in the enclosed proxy card or voter instruction card will vote the shares they represent using their best judgment.
How do I vote?
The procedures for voting are as follows:
Stockholder of Record: Shares Registered in Your Name. If you are a stockholder of record, you may vote in person at the Annual Meeting, vote by proxy using the proxy card that you may request or that we may elect to deliver at a later time, vote by proxy over the telephone, or vote by proxy on the Internet. Whether or not you plan to attend the Annual Meeting, we urge you to vote by proxy to ensure your vote is counted. You may still attend the Annual Meeting and vote in person even if you have already voted by proxy.
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¨ | To vote in person, come to the Annual Meeting and we will give you a ballot when you arrive. |
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¨ | To vote using the proxy card, simply complete, sign and date the proxy card that may be delivered and return it promptly in the envelope provided. If you return your signed proxy card to us before the Annual Meeting, we will vote your shares as you direct. |
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¨ | To vote over the telephone, dial toll-free 1-800-776-9437, or, if you are calling outside the U.S., dial 1-718-921-8500, using a touch-tone phone and follow the recorded instructions. Please have your Notice in hand when you call. Your vote must be received by 8:59 p.m. Pacific Time (11:59 p.m. Eastern Time) on Wednesday, June 3, 2015 to be counted. |
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¨ | To vote on the Internet, go to http://www.voteproxy.com to complete an electronic proxy card. Your vote must be received by 8:59 p.m. Pacific Time (11:59 p.m. Eastern Time) on Wednesday, June 3, 2015 to be counted. |
We provide Internet proxy voting to allow you to vote your shares online, with procedures designed to ensure the authenticity and correctness of your proxy vote instructions. However, please be aware that you must bear any costs associated with your Internet access, such as usage charges from Internet access providers and telephone companies.
Beneficial Owner: Shares Registered in the Name of Broker or Bank. If on April 13, 2015, you are a beneficial owner of shares registered in the name of your broker, bank or other agent, you should have received Notice containing instructions from that organization rather than from Blue Nile. Simply follow the instructions in the Notice provided to you to ensure that your vote is counted. Alternatively, you may vote by telephone or on the Internet as instructed by your broker, bank or other agent. To vote in person at the Annual Meeting, you must obtain from the record holder a valid proxy issued in your name and present it to our inspector of elections at the Annual Meeting.
How many votes do I have?
On each matter to be voted upon, you have one vote for each share of common stock you own as of April 13, 2015.
Who is paying for this proxy solicitation?
We will pay for the entire cost of soliciting proxies. In addition to these mailed proxy materials, our directors and employees may also solicit proxies in person, by telephone, or by other means of communication. Directors and employees will not be paid any additional compensation for soliciting proxies. We may also reimburse brokerage firms, banks and other agents for the cost of forwarding proxy materials to beneficial owners.
What does it mean if I receive more than one Notice?
If you receive more than one Notice, your shares are registered in more than one name or are registered in different accounts. Please follow the voting instructions on the Notices to ensure that all of your shares are voted.
Can I change my vote after submitting my proxy?
Yes. You can revoke your proxy at any time before the final vote at the Annual Meeting. If you are the record holder of your shares, you may revoke your proxy in any one of four ways:
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¨ | You may submit another properly completed proxy card with a later date. |
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¨ | You may grant a subsequent proxy by telephone or through the Internet. |
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¨ | You may send a timely written notice that you are revoking your proxy to Blue Nile's Corporate Secretary at 411 First Avenue South, Suite 700, Seattle, Washington 98104. |
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¨ | You may attend the Annual Meeting and vote in person. Simply attending the Annual Meeting will not, by itself, revoke your proxy. |
Your most current proxy card or telephone or Internet proxy is the one that is counted.
If your shares are held by your broker, bank or other agent, you should follow the instructions provided by that organization.
When are stockholder proposals due for next year's Annual Meeting?
To be considered for inclusion in next year's proxy materials, your proposal must be submitted in writing by December 26, 2015 (120 calendar days prior to the anniversary of the mailing date of this proxy statement), to our Corporate Secretary at 411 First Avenue South, Suite 700, Seattle, Washington 98104. In addition, stockholder proposals must otherwise comply with the requirements of Rule 14a-8 of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
A stockholder proposal or nomination for director that will not be included in next year's proxy materials, but that a stockholder intends to present in person at next year's Annual Meeting, must comply with the notice, information and consent provisions contained in our bylaws. In part, the bylaws provide that to timely submit a proposal or nominate a director you must do so by submitting the proposal or nomination in writing to our Corporate Secretary at our principal executive offices no later than the close of business on March 6, 2016 (90 calendar days prior to the first anniversary of the date of the Annual Meeting) nor earlier than the close of business on February 5, 2016 (120 calendar days prior to the first anniversary of the date of the Annual Meeting). In the event that we set an annual meeting date for 2016 that is not within 30 days before or after the anniversary of the date of the Annual Meeting, notice by the stockholder must be received no earlier than the close of business on the 120th day prior to the 2016 annual meeting and no later than the close of business on the later of the 90th day prior to the 2016 annual meeting or the 10th day following the day on which public announcement of the date of the 2016 annual meeting is first made. You are also advised to carefully review our bylaws, which contain additional requirements about advance notice of stockholder proposals and director nominations, including the submission of certain information with respect to proposed nominees and proponents of any stockholder proposals. You may obtain a copy of our bylaws by mailing a request in writing to Blue Nile's Corporate Secretary at 411 First Avenue South, Suite 700, Seattle, Washington 98104.
How many votes are needed to approve each proposal?
If a quorum is present, each proposal requires the votes described below to be approved.
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¨ | Proposal 1 - Election of Directors. For the election of directors, the two nominees receiving the most “For” votes (among votes properly cast in person or by proxy) will be elected. Only votes “For” or “Withheld” will affect the outcome. |
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¨ | Proposal 2 - Ratification of Deloitte & Touche LLP as independent registered public accounting firm. To be approved, the ratification of Deloitte & Touche LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for fiscal year ending January 3, 2016 must receive “For” votes from the holders of a majority of shares present and entitled to vote either in person or by proxy. You may vote “For,” “Against,” or “Abstain” from the proposal to approve the ratification of Deloitte & Touche LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for fiscal year ending January 3, 2016. If you “Abstain” from voting, it will have the same effect as an “Against” vote. |
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¨ | Proposal 3 - Advisory Vote Approving Executive Compensation. To be approved, the compensation of our named executive officers must receive “For” votes from the holders of a majority of our shares present and entitled to vote either in person or by proxy. |
You may vote “For,” “Against,” or “Abstain” from the proposal to approve the compensation of our named executive officers. If you “Abstain” from voting, it will have the same effect as an “Against” vote.
What is the quorum requirement?
A quorum of stockholders is necessary to hold a valid Annual Meeting. A quorum will be present if stockholders holding a majority of the outstanding shares of stock entitled to vote are present at the Annual Meeting or represented by proxy. On the record date, there were 11,876,810 shares of common stock outstanding and entitled to vote. Thus, the holders of 5,938,406 shares of common stock must be present in person or represented by proxy at the Annual Meeting to have a quorum.
Your shares will be counted towards the quorum only if you submit a valid proxy (or one is submitted on your behalf by your broker, bank or other agent) or if you vote in person at the Annual Meeting. Abstentions and broker non-votes will be counted towards the quorum requirement. In the absence of a quorum, the Annual Meeting may be adjourned either by the chairman of the meeting or by vote of the holders of a majority of shares present at the meeting in person or represented by proxy.
What if I return a proxy card but do not make specific choices?
If you are a stockholder of record and return a signed and dated proxy card without marking any voting selections, your shares will be voted as recommended by the board of directors. The board of directors unanimously recommends a vote:
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1. | “FOR” the election of the two nominees for director (Proposal 1); |
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2. | “FOR” the ratification of the selection of Deloitte & Touche LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for fiscal year ending January 3, 2016 (Proposal 2); and |
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3. | “FOR” approval of the advisory resolution approving executive compensation (Proposal 3). |
If any other matter is properly presented at the Annual Meeting, your proxyholder (one of the individuals named on your proxy card) will vote your shares using his or her best judgment.
If your shares are held in street name and you do not instruct your broker on a timely basis on how to vote your shares, your brokerage firm, in its discretion may either leave your shares unvoted or vote your shares on routine matters. The election of directors and the advisory vote approving executive compensation are non-routine matters. Consequently, without your voting instructions, your brokerage firm cannot vote your shares on these proposals. These unvoted shares, called “broker non-votes,” refer to shares held by brokers who have not received voting instructions from their clients, and who do not have discretionary authority to vote on these matters because they are non-routine matters. In tabulating the voting results for the election of directors and the advisory approval of executive compensation, shares that constitute broker non-votes are not considered entitled to vote on such proposals. Accordingly, broker non-votes will not affect the outcome of the vote on these proposals.
The proposal to ratify the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending January 3, 2016 is considered a routine matter.
Whether or not your brokerage firm can vote or does vote your shares on your behalf on any proposal, if you submit a valid proxy (or one is submitted on your behalf by your broker, bank or other agent) your shares will be counted as present for the purpose of determining a quorum.
How can I find out the results of the voting at the Annual Meeting?
Votes will be counted by a representative of our independent inspector of elections appointed for the Annual Meeting. Preliminary voting results will be announced at the Annual Meeting. We will publish final voting results on a Form 8-K that we expect to file within four business days after our Annual Meeting. If final voting results are not available to us in time to file a Form 8-K within four business days after the meeting, we intend to file a Form 8-K to publish the preliminary results and, within four business days after the final results are known to us, file an additional Form 8-K to publish the final results.
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PROPOSAL 1
ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
The board of directors is divided into three classes. Each class consists, as nearly as possible, of one-third of the total number of directors, and each class has a three-year term. Vacancies on the board of directors may be filled only by persons elected by a majority of the remaining directors. A director elected by the board of directors to fill a vacancy in a class, including a vacancy created by an increase in the number of directors, shall serve for the remainder of the full term of that class and until the director's successor is elected and qualified.
Prior to February 23, 2015, the board of directors was comprised of eight members. Effective on February 23, 2015, the board of directors appointed Robert van Schoonenberg to the board of directors, and increased the size of the board of directors from eight to nine.
There are three directors in the class whose term of office expires in 2015: Michael Potter, Steve Scheid, and Mary Alice Taylor. Mr. Scheid has served as a director since October 2007 and has decided not to stand for re-election at the Annual Meeting. In connection with Mr. Scheid’s decision not to stand for re-election, the size of the board of directors will be reduced from nine members to eight members effective as of the date of the Annual Meeting, June 4, 2015. Mr. Potter was appointed to the board of directors in 2007 and was previously elected by the stockholders. Ms. Taylor was appointed to the board of directors in 2000 and was previously elected by the stockholders. Mr. Potter and Ms. Taylor have each been designated by the board of directors as independent directors within the meaning of the applicable NASDAQ Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”) listing standards.
On the recommendation of our nominating and corporate governance committee, the board of directors has nominated each of Mr. Potter and Ms. Taylor to stand for election at the Annual Meeting. If elected at the Annual Meeting, each of Mr. Potter and Ms. Taylor would serve until the 2018 annual meeting of stockholders and until his or her successor is elected and qualified, or, if sooner, until the director's death, resignation or removal.
For the election of directors, the two nominees receiving the most “For” votes (among votes properly cast in person or by proxy) will be elected. Only votes “For” or “Withheld” will affect the outcome. In the unexpected event that a nominee is unable or unwilling to serve as a nominee at the time of the Annual Meeting, the persons named as proxies may vote for a substitute nominee chosen by us. Alternatively, the board of directors may decide to reduce the size of the board of directors. Each person nominated for election has agreed to serve if elected, and we have no reason to believe that any nominee will be unable or unwilling to serve.
Below is a biography of each nominee and each director whose term will continue after the Annual Meeting. The biographies below include information, as of the date of this proxy statement, regarding specific and particular experience, qualifications, attributions or skills of each director that led the nominating and corporate governance committee to recommend the director nominees to the board of directors and to conclude that each of the other directors should continue to serve as members of the board of directors.
In addition to the individual information set forth below, all of our directors, including our nominees, must exemplify the highest levels of ethics and integrity, have a demonstrated willingness to devote sufficient time and energy to serve on the board of directors and its committees, and have a commitment to rigorously represent the long-term interests of our stockholders.
It is our policy to invite and encourage directors and nominees for director to attend our annual meetings. Mr. Kanter attended the 2014 annual meeting of stockholders.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
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Name | Age | Director Since | Term Ends | Independent | Audit Committee | Compensation Committee | Nominating & Corporate Governance Committee |
Michael Potter** | 53 | 2007 | 2015 | X | X* | | |
Steve Scheid (1) | 61 | 2007 | 2015 | X | | X* | |
Mary Alice Taylor | 65 | 2000 | 2015 | X | | | X* |
Chris Bruzzo | 45 | 2011 | 2016 | X | X | X | |
Harvey Kanter, chairman | 53 | 2012 | 2016 | | | | |
Leslie Lane | 47 | 2008 | 2016 | X | | X | X |
Mindy Meads | 63 | 2013 | 2017 | X | X | X | |
Scott Howe | 47 | 2014 | 2017 | X | X | | X |
Robert G. van Schoonenberg (2) | 67 | 2015 | 2017 | X | | X | |
Number of Committee Meetings During Fiscal Year 2014 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
* Committee chairperson
** Lead independent director
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(1) | Mr. Scheid’s term expires on June 4, 2015, and he has decided not to stand for re-election at the Annual Meeting. Following the end of Mr. Scheid’s term on the board of directors, the board of directors will appoint another compensation committee chairman. |
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(2) | Mr. van Schoonenberg was appointed to the board of directors and to the compensation committee effective February 23, 2015. |
NOMINEES FOR ELECTION FOR A THREE-YEAR TERM EXPIRING AT THE 2018 ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
Michael Potter
Michael Potter has served as a director since October 2007 and has served as our lead independent director since January 2014. Mr. Potter also served as our lead independent director from February 2011 to February 2012. From October 2011 to March 2012, Mr. Potter served as the chief operating officer of zulily, inc. (“zulily”), an Internet retailer of daily deals for moms and children. From June 2000 to June 2005, Mr. Potter served as chairman and chief executive officer of Big Lots, Inc. (“Big Lots”), a Fortune 500 retailer. Prior to serving as the chief executive officer, Mr. Potter served in various capacities at Big Lots, including the role of chief financial officer. Prior to Big Lots, Mr. Potter held various positions at The Limited, Inc., May Department Stores, and Meier & Frank, all retail companies. Mr. Potter currently serves on the board of directors of zulily. Mr. Potter formerly served on the board of directors of Coldwater Creek, Inc., a triple channel retailer of women's apparel, gifts and accessories; Newegg, Inc., an online-only retailer specializing in high-tech products; and Big Lots. Mr. Potter holds an M.B.A. from Capital University in Ohio and a B.S. in Finance and Management from the University of Oregon. Mr. Potter brings a wealth of retail experience to the board of directors. His prior experience as a chairman, chief executive officer, and director of a Fortune 500 retailer provides the board of directors with valuable leadership skills, strategic planning, and corporate governance skills. In addition, his prior experience as a chief operating officer for an internet retailer, as well as a chief financial officer for a Fortune 500 retailer, provides valuable operational, e-commerce, and financial expertise to the board of directors. Mr. Potter has been designated by the board of directors as an audit committee financial expert. Mr. Potter’s leadership, tenure, retail and executive leadership experience, and independence, make him exceptionally qualified to serve on the board of directors and to serve as our lead independent director and audit committee chair.
Mary Alice Taylor
Mary Alice Taylor has served as a director since March 2000 and served as our lead independent director from May 2004 through February 2011. Ms. Taylor has been an independent business executive since October 2000. She held a temporary assignment as chairman and chief executive officer of Webvan Group, Inc., an e-commerce company, from July 2001 to December 2001. Prior to that, she served as chairman and chief executive officer of HomeGrocer.com, an e-commerce company, from September 1999 until she completed a sale of the company to Webvan Group, Inc. in October 2000. From January 1997 to September 1999, Ms. Taylor served as corporate executive vice president of worldwide operations and technology for Citigroup, Inc., a financial services organization. Ms. Taylor also served as Senior Vice President of Federal Express Corporation, a delivery services company, from September 1991 until December 1996. Ms. Taylor also serves on the board of directors of Allstate Corporation, an insurance company. Ms. Taylor formerly served on the board of directors of Autodesk Inc., a design software company, and Sabre Holdings, an Internet travel services company. Ms. Taylor holds a B.S. in Finance from Mississippi State University. Ms. Taylor is a tenured board member with an in-depth understanding of our business, and she is a seasoned business leader and director. Her executive leadership experience, including her role as chief executive officer, provides the board of directors with valuable operational, financial, and executive leadership skills. Her experience, tenure, and in-depth knowledge about our business make her exceptionally well qualified to serve as our director and nominating and corporate governance committee chair.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS
A VOTE IN FAVOR OF EACH NAMED NOMINEE (PROPOSAL 1).
DIRECTORS CONTINUING IN OFFICE UNTIL THE 2016 ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
Chris Bruzzo
Chris Bruzzo has served as a director since July 2011. Since September 2014, Mr. Bruzzo has served as executive vice president and global chief marketing officer of Electronic Arts. From May 2013 to September 2014, Mr. Bruzzo has served as the senior vice president and general manager of Evolution Fresh, a subsidiary of Starbucks Corporation ("Starbucks"), a specialty coffee retailer. From June 2012 to May 2013, Mr. Bruzzo served as the senior vice president of channel brand management at Starbucks. From June 2011 to June 2012, he served as the senior vice president and chief marketing officer for Seattle's Best Coffee, a subsidiary of Starbucks. From June 2008 to July 2011, he served as vice president of global advertising & digital marketing at Starbucks. From January 2008 to May 2008, Mr. Bruzzo served as the chief technology officer and interim chief information officer at Starbucks and from January 2007 to January 2008, he served as the vice president of digital strategy at Starbucks. From July 2006 to October 2006, Mr. Bruzzo served as the vice president of marketing and public relations at Amazon.com, Inc. (“Amazon.com”), an online retailer. From July 2003 to February 2006, Mr. Bruzzo served in various roles at Amazon.com, including vice president of strategic communications, content and initiatives. Prior to Amazon.com, Mr. Bruzzo was an assistant vice president at Regence Blue Shield, an insurance company. Mr. Bruzzo has an extensive background in marketing and in building an iconic global brand. His expertise and perspective enrich the leadership of the board of directors as we continue to expand our brand globally. Further, Mr. Bruzzo's extensive expertise in social media provides the board of directors with valuable insights into the most effective ways to interact with our customers.
Harvey Kanter
Harvey Kanter has served as our chief executive officer, president and director since March 30, 2012. He has served as the chairman of the board of directors since January 1, 2014. He served as the chief executive officer and president of Moosejaw Mountaineering and Backcountry Travel, Inc., a leading multi-channel retailer of premium outdoor apparel and gear, from January 2009 to March 2012. From April 2003 to June 2008, Mr. Kanter served in various executive positions at Michaels Stores, Inc. (“Michaels”), a specialty retailer of arts and crafts, most recently serving as the executive vice president and managing director from March 2006 to June 2008. While at Michaels, Mr. Kanter also served as the president of Aaron Brothers, Inc., a division of Michaels, from April 2003 to March 2006. From October 1995 to March 2003, Mr. Kanter served in various management positions at Eddie Bauer, Inc. (“Eddie Bauer”), a premium outdoor retailer, including serving as the vice president and managing director of Eddie Bauer Home, a division of Eddie Bauer. Prior to Eddie Bauer, Mr. Kanter held positions at several other retailers, including Sears Roebuck Company, a multi-line retailer, and Broadway Stores, Inc. (known as Carter Hawley Hale Department Stores). Mr. Kanter’s extensive retail experience with national retailers is highly valuable to the board of directors, as this experience provides deep retail industry experience,
brand expertise, experience building a customer-centric brand, and leadership skills. Additionally, as our chairman, chief executive officer and president, Mr. Kanter brings to the board of directors critical insights into our strategic opportunities and into our day-to-day operations, organizational development, and structure and make him exceptionally well qualified to be our chairman.
Leslie Lane
Leslie Lane has served as a director since December 2008. Mr. Lane has served as our lead independent director from February 2012 to January 2014. Mr. Lane has served as an operating partner at Altamont Capital Partners (“Altamont”), a private equity company, since May 2011. Since July 2013, he has served as the chief executive officer and director of one of Altamont’s portfolio companies, Dakine, Inc., an outdoor apparel and accessories company based in Oregon. From June 2010 to April 2011, Mr. Lane served as the vice president and managing director of the Nike Foundation at Nike, Inc. (“Nike”), a designer, marketer and distributor of athletic footwear, apparel, equipment, and accessories. From October 2006 to June 2010, he served as vice president and general manager of Global Running for Nike. From March 2004 to October 2006, he served as director of Nike Global Footwear finance and strategic planning and, from March 2003 to March 2004, he served as the director of Nike subsidiaries. From 1998 to 2002, Mr. Lane held various positions at Roll International Corporation, a private holding company, including serving as the chief operating officer of PomWonderful LLC, the chief financial officer of Paramount Citrus, and the vice president of strategy of Roll International Corporation. From 1990 to 1998, Mr. Lane was a consultant with Bain & Company, a management consultant firm. He holds an M.A. in Chemistry from Oxford University and an M.B.A. from Harvard University. Mr. Lane is a member of our compensation committee and nominating and corporate governance committee. Mr. Lane has a strong background in building customer-centric brands. His experience provides the board of directors with valuable insights into strategic branding and marketing opportunities both domestically and internationally. Further, Mr. Lane’s deep retail and financial expertise and experience are incredibly valuable to the board of directors.
DIRECTORS CONTINUING IN OFFICE UNTIL THE 2017 ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
Mindy Meads
Mindy Meads has served as a director since May 2013. Ms. Meads served as the chief executive officer of Calypso St. Barth, a resort brand of apparel and accessories, from December 2013 to December 2014. From February 2010 to April 2011, she served as a co-chief executive officer of Aeropostale, Inc. (“Aeropostale”), a mall-based specialty retailer of casual apparel and accessories for kids and young adults, and was president and chief merchandising officer of Aeropostale from March 2007 to February 2010. From August 2006 to January 2007, she was president and chief executive officer of Victoria's Secret Direct, a division of Limited Brands, Inc., a clothing retailer. From 2004 to 2005, Ms. Meads served as chief executive officer of Lands’ End, an apparel retailer (“Lands’ End”). Prior to Lands’ End, Ms. Meads held a variety of executive merchandising and operating positions at Sears, Gymboree, The Limited and R.H. Macy’s, all nationwide retailers. Ms. Meads formerly served on the board of directors of Aeropostale, The Wet Seal, Inc., a teen specialty retailer of apparel and accessory items, and Mela Sciences, Inc., a biotech company. Ms. Meads is also a member of The Committee of 200, America’s Women Business Leaders, and has served as a trustee and a member of the Audit Committee of The Master School, a private high school in New York, since 2010. Ms. Meads is a former director of the Federal Reserve Board for the 7th District (Chicago). Ms. Meads has a Bachelor of Science from the University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois. Ms. Meads’ extensive experience as a chief executive officer of national retailers is highly valued by the board of directors in terms of retail industry experience, brand experience, leadership skills, and strategic planning. Additionally, Ms. Meads is an experienced director, providing the board of directors with further depth and valuable corporate governance experience. Ms. Meads has been designated by the board of directors as an audit committee financial expert.
Scott Howe
Scott Howe has served as a director since January 2014. Mr. Howe has served as the chief executive officer, president, and a director of Acxiom Corporation, an enterprise data, analytics, and software-as-a-service company, since 2011. From 2007 to 2010, he served as the corporate vice president of Microsoft Advertising Business at Microsoft Corporation, a provider of software and services. In 2010, he co-founded and served as interim chief executive officer and president of King of the Web, Inc., a company maintaining a portfolio of online game shows. From 1999 to 2007, Mr. Howe served as an executive and later as a corporate officer at aQuantive, Inc., a digital marketing services company. Prior to aQuantive, Inc., Mr. Howe was with The Boston Consulting Group and Kidder, Peabody & Company, Inc. He serves on the board of directors of the Center for Medical Weight Loss and is a former director of the Internet Advertising Bureau (IAB), an advertising business organization that develops industry standards, conducts research, and provides legal support for the online advertising industry, and Turn, Inc., a digital advertising company. Mr. Howe was also formerly a director of Geeknet, Inc., an online retailer. Mr. Howe serves on our audit committee and our nominating and corporate governance committee. Mr. Howe brings a deep expertise to the board of directors in the digital advertising industry and data analytics. Further, his experience and background as a chief executive officer offers the board of directors’ additional experience in executive leadership and strategic execution. Mr. Howe’s experience and demonstrated excellence in his field enriches the board of directors’ mix of skills and expertise and is particularly valuable to our business, as we focus on reaching potential consumers through on-line marketing.
Robert G. van Schoonenberg
Robert van Schoonenberg has served as a director since February 23, 2015. Mr. van Schoonenberg has served as the chairman and chief executive officer of BayPoint Capital Partners, LLC, a private equity firm since January 2008, and co-managing partner of AmeriCap Partners LLC, a growth capital investment firm since September 2010. From February 2008 until June 2010, Mr. van Schoonenberg was the chairman of the board of directors of Premiere Entertainment, LLC, a digital broadcast production company. For more than 27 years, Mr. van Schoonenberg served in various capacities at Avery Dennison Corporation, a Fortune 500 labeling, packaging materials, and solutions company, including serving as the executive vice president, chief legal officer and corporate secretary to the board of directors. Mr. van Schoonenberg currently serves on the board of directors of Ryland Group, Inc., a national home building company; Guidance Software, Inc., a digital forensics and cybersecurity company; and Live Media Group LLC, a multimedia company specializing in the production and delivery of live entertainment and music events to television, in-theatre, the Internet, and mobile devices. He formerly served on the board of directors of Altair Nanotechnologies, Inc., a manufacturer of nano-based products. Mr. van Schoonenberg received his J.D. degree from University of Michigan Law School, M.B.A. from the University of Wisconsin at Madison, and undergraduate degree from Marquette University. Mr. van Schoonenberg also serves on the Board of Trustees for Southwestern University School of Law. Mr. van Schoonenberg’s deep experience in corporate governance, law, and strategy at the executive level for multiple companies makes him a valuable addition to the board of directors.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE HIGHLIGHTS
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Board Independence | |
• Independent director nominees | 2 of 2 |
• Lead Independent Director | Michael Potter |
• Independent board committees | All |
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Evaluating and Improving Board Performance | |
• Board evaluations | Annually |
• Committee evaluations | Annually |
• Board orientation | Yes |
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Aligning Director and Shareholder Interests | |
• Director stock ownership guidelines | Yes |
• Director equity grants | Yes |
INDEPENDENCE OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
As required under the Nasdaq listing standards, a majority of the members of a listed company's board of directors must qualify as “independent,” as affirmatively determined by the board of directors. The board of directors consults with our legal counsel to ensure that the board of directors’ determinations are consistent with all relevant securities and other laws and regulations regarding the definition of “independent,” including those set forth in pertinent listing standards of Nasdaq as in effect, from time to time.
Consistent with these considerations, after reviewing all relevant transactions and relationships between each director, or any of his or her family members, and us, our senior management and our independent registered public accounting firm, the board of directors affirmatively determined that the following eight directors are independent directors within the meaning of the applicable Nasdaq listing standards: Mr. Bruzzo, Mr. Howe, Mr. Lane, Ms. Meads, Mr. Potter, Mr. Scheid, Ms. Taylor, and Mr. van Schoonenberg. In making this determination, the board of directors found that none of these directors had a material or other disqualifying relationship with us. Mr. Kanter is not independent by virtue of his employment with us.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS' ROLE IN RISK OVERSIGHT
There are risks inherent in every business and the board of directors has oversight over how we manage the risks associated with our business. The board of directors takes an active role, as a whole and at the committee level, in overseeing management of the company’s risks. Our management keeps the board of directors apprised of significant risks facing our business and the approach being taken to understand, manage and mitigate such risks. Specifically, strategic risks are overseen by the full board of directors; financial risks are overseen by the audit committee of the board of directors; risks relating to compensation plans and arrangements are overseen by the compensation committee of the board of directors; and risks associated with director independence and potential conflicts of interest are overseen by the nominating and corporate governance committee of the board of directors. In fiscal year 2014, management presented to the board of directors the results of our enterprise risk management assessment. In connection with its review, the board of directors went through the risks identified by management, the process management used to identify and rate the risks, the mitigation strategies for each of the material risks, and the relevant action items. The board of directors believes that the process it goes through to oversee the management of risks allows it to understand the critical risks facing the business, evaluate our risk management process, ensure that the risk management process is functioning adequately, and foster a culture of risk awareness.
MEETINGS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The board of directors met eight times during fiscal year 2014. With the exception of Mr. Lane who attended 74%, each board member attended 75% or more of the aggregate of the meetings of the board of directors and meetings of the committees on which he or she served, held during the period for which he or she was a director or committee member.
As required under applicable Nasdaq listing standards, in fiscal year 2014, our independent directors met at least four times in regularly scheduled executive sessions at which only independent directors were present. The lead independent director presided over the executive sessions. From January 2014 through the date hereof, Mr. Potter has served as our lead independent director. Persons interested in communicating with the independent directors with their concerns or issues may address correspondence to a particular director or to the independent directors generally, in care of Blue Nile's Corporate Secretary at 411 First Avenue South, Suite 700, Seattle, Washington 98104. If no particular director is named, letters will be forwarded, depending on the subject matter, to the chair of the audit committee, compensation committee, or nominating and corporate governance committee, as applicable.
INFORMATION REGARDING THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND ITS COMMITTEES
In April 2004, our board of directors documented the governance practices followed by us and our board of directors by adopting the Corporate Governance Policies (the “Governance Policies”). The Governance Policies provide our board of directors with the necessary authority to review and evaluate our business operations as needed, and they are designed to facilitate our board of directors' independent decision making authority. The Governance Policies are intended to align the interests of directors and management with those of our stockholders. The Governance Policies, among other things, set forth the practices the board of directors will follow with respect
to the selection of directors, the independence of the directors, meetings of the board of directors, committees of the board of directors, and the responsibilities of the board of directors. The Governance Policies were adopted to, among other things, reflect changes to the Nasdaq listing standards and SEC rules adopted to implement provisions of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The Governance Policies of the board of directors, as well as the charters for each committee of the board of directors, may be viewed on our website at www.bluenile.com in the corporate governance section of our investor relations page.
Leadership Structure. The board of directors does not have a policy on whether the role of the chairman and chief executive officer should be separate. On January 1, 2014, Mr. Kanter was appointed as our chairman of the board of directors. The board of directors believes that combining the chairman and chief executive officer position is currently the most effective leadership structure for us, given Mr. Kanter’s deep understanding of the day-to-day operations of our business and the strategic opportunities for our business. In light of his combined role, he is positioned to help elevate the most critical issues to the board of directors for consideration. Mr. Kanter is not considered an independent director by virtue of his current role as chief executive officer. Our Governance Policies provide that to the extent that there is not an independent chairman, the board of directors will designate an independent director to serve as lead independent director. The board of directors appointed Mr. Potter as our lead independent director in January 2014. Pursuant to our Governance Policies, except to the extent otherwise deemed appropriate by the board of directors, the lead independent director has the following responsibilities: (i) in conjunction with the chief executive officer, establish agendas for meetings of the independent directors; (ii) preside over the meetings of the independent directors; and (iii) coordinate the activities of the other independent directors and perform various other duties. Typically, there is a meeting of the independent directors in conjunction with every quarterly meeting of the board of directors, and in 2014 each quarterly meeting of the board of directors included a non-management executive session. This allows the directors to speak candidly on any matter of interest without members of management present.
Committees. The board of directors has three standing committees: an audit committee, a compensation committee, and a nominating and corporate governance committee. Below is a description of each committee of the board of directors. Each committee has authority to engage legal counsel or other experts or consultants, as it deems appropriate, to carry out its responsibilities. The board of directors has determined that each member of each committee meets the applicable Nasdaq rules and regulations regarding “independence” and that each member is free of any relationship that would interfere with his or her individual exercise of independent judgment with regard to us.
AUDIT COMMITTEE
The audit committee of the board of directors oversees our corporate accounting and financial reporting processes and audits of our financial statements. For this purpose, the audit committee performs functions, including, among other things:
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• | evaluating the performance of and assessing the qualifications of the independent registered public accounting firm; |
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• | determining and approving the engagement of the independent registered public accounting firm; |
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• | reviewing all relationships between the prospective auditors, or their affiliates and us, or persons in financial oversight roles with us, that may reasonably be thought to bear on independence, and to discuss with the prospective auditors the potential effects of such relationships on the independence of the prospective auditors; |
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• | determining whether to retain or terminate the existing independent registered public accounting firm or to appoint and engage a new independent registered public accounting firm; |
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• | evaluating the systems of internal control over financial reports; |
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• | reviewing and approving the retention of the independent registered public accounting firm to perform any proposed permissible non-audit services; |
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• | monitoring the rotation of partners of the independent registered public accounting firm on our audit engagement team as required by law; |
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• | reviewing and approving or rejecting transactions between us and any related parties; |
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• | conferring with management and the independent registered public accounting firm regarding the effectiveness of our internal controls over financial reporting; |
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• | establishing procedures, as required under applicable law, for the receipt, retention and treatment of complaints received by us regarding accounting, internal accounting controls or auditing matters and the confidential and anonymous submission by employees of concerns regarding questionable accounting or auditing matters; and |
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• | reviewing our annual audited financial statements and quarterly financial statements with management and the independent registered public accounting firm, including reviewing our disclosures under “Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.” |
The audit committee is composed of four directors: Mr. Potter (chair), Mr. Bruzzo, Mr. Howe, and Ms. Meads. Until Eric Carlborg’s term ended on May 22, 2014, the audit committee was composed of five directors, and Mr. Carlborg served as the chair of the committee. The audit committee met eight times during fiscal year 2014. The audit committee has adopted a written charter that is available at http://investor.bluenile.com.
The board of directors annually reviews the Nasdaq listing standards definition of independence for audit committee members and has determined that all members of our audit committee are independent (as independence is currently defined in Rule 5605(a)(2) of the Nasdaq listing standards). The board of directors has also determined that each of Mr. Howe, Ms. Meads, and Mr. Potter qualifies as an “audit committee financial expert,” as defined in applicable SEC rules. In making this determination, the board of directors made a qualitative assessment of Mr. Howe’s, Ms. Meads’, and Mr. Potter’s level of knowledge and experience based on a number of factors, including their respective formal education, experience, business acumen, and independence.
AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT(1)
The audit committee reviewed and discussed the audited financial statements for fiscal year 2014 with management of Blue Nile. The audit committee has also discussed with Blue Nile's independent registered public accounting firm the matters required to be discussed by Auditing Standard No. 16, Communications with Audit Committees, as adopted by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (“PCAOB”) in Rule 3200T. The audit committee has also received the written disclosures and the letter from Blue Nile's independent registered public accounting firm required by applicable requirements of the PCAOB regarding the independent registered public accounting firm's communications with the audit committee concerning independence, and has discussed with Blue Nile's independent registered public accounting firm's independence. Based on the foregoing, the audit committee has recommended to the board of directors that the audited financial statements be included in Blue Nile's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 4, 2015.
Date: April 24, 2015
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Respectfully submitted,
Michael Potter, Chairman Chris Bruzzo Scott Howe Mindy Meads |
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(1) | The material in this report is not “soliciting material,” is not deemed “filed” with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and is not to be incorporated by reference into any filing of Blue Nile under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, whether made before or after the date hereof and irrespective of any general incorporation language in any such filing. |
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE
During fiscal year 2014, the compensation committee had four member composed of Mr. Scheid (chair), Mr. Bruzzo, Ms. Meads, and Mr. Lane. Following Mr. van Schoonenberg’s appointment to the compensation committee in February 2015, the compensation committee was increased to five members. The compensation committee met six times during fiscal year 2014. The board of directors has determined that all of the members of the compensation committee are independent (as independence is currently defined in Rule 5605(a)(2) of the Nasdaq listing standards). The compensation committee has adopted a written compensation committee charter that is available at http://investor.bluenile.com.
The compensation committee acts on behalf of the board of directors to review, adopt, and oversee our compensation strategy, policies, plans, and programs, including:
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• | reviewing and approving corporate performance goals and objectives relevant to the compensation of our executive officers and other senior management and evaluation of performance in light of these objectives; |
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• | reviewing and approving of the compensation and other terms of employment of our executive officers and other senior management; and |
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• | administering our equity compensation plans, incentive compensation plans, and other similar plans. |
Each year, the compensation committee reviews with management our Compensation Discussion and Analysis and considers whether to recommend that it be included in proxy statements and other filings.
The agenda for each compensation committee meeting is generally developed by the chair of the compensation committee, in consultation with the chief executive officer, the chief financial officer, the vice president of human resources, and the general counsel, as appropriate. The compensation committee meets regularly in executive session. From time to time, various members of management as well as outside advisors or consultants may be invited by the compensation committee to make presentations, provide financial or other background information or advice, or otherwise participate in the compensation committee meetings. The charter of the compensation committee grants the compensation committee full access to all of our books, records, facilities and personnel, as well as authority to obtain, at our expense, advice and assistance from internal and external legal, human resources, accounting, or other advisors and consultants and other external resources that the compensation committee considers necessary or appropriate in the performance of its duties. In particular, the compensation committee has the sole authority to retain compensation consultants to assist it in its evaluation of executive and director compensation, including the authority to approve the consultant's reasonable fees and other retention terms.
Under its charter, the compensation committee may form, and delegate authority to, subcommittees, as appropriate. In 2004, the compensation committee formed the stock award committee. Three executives compose the stock award committee: our chief executive officer, chief financial officer, and general counsel. The compensation committee delegated authority to the stock award committee to grant equity awards to newly hired non-executive employees and merit awards to existing non-executive employees at such times as are specifically authorized within ranges approved by the compensation committee. The purpose of this delegation of authority is to enhance the flexibility of our equity administration and to facilitate the timely grant of equity to non-executive employees within specified limits approved by the compensation committee.
Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation
None of the compensation committee's members has at any time been an officer or employee of Blue Nile. None of our executive officers serve, or in the past fiscal year has served, as a member of the board of directors or compensation committee of any entity that at the same time has or had one or more of its executive officers serving on the board of directors or compensation committee. None of the compensation committee's members is or was a participant in a “related person transaction” in the past fiscal year (see “Transactions with Related Persons” included herein for a description of our policy on related person transactions). In 2014, the compensation committee engaged independent compensation consultants Milliman, Inc. (“Milliman”) and Towers Watson & Co. (“Towers Watson”). The role of these compensation consultants is described in our “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” section below.
NOMINATING AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE
The nominating and corporate governance committee of the board of directors is responsible for, among other things:
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• | identifying, reviewing and evaluating candidates to serve as directors; |
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• | recommending candidates to the board of directors for election to the board of directors; |
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• | reviewing and evaluating incumbent directors; |
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• | considering recommended director nominees and proposals submitted by stockholders; |
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• | establishing policies and procedures to facilitate stockholder communications with the board of directors; |
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• | evaluating the performance, authority, operations, charter, and composition of each standing committee and the performance of each committee member and recommending changes, as it deems appropriate; |
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• | developing and periodically reviewing a management succession plan; |
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• | establishing and carrying-out a process for the periodic review of the performance of the board of directors and its committees and management; |
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• | assessing the independence of directors; |
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• | evaluating the need for a plan or program for the continuing education of directors; |
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• | reviewing significant regulatory, legal or other initiatives and matters that may materially impact us; |
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• | developing and reviewing our corporate governance principles; |
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• | evaluating our directors and officers liability insurance; and |
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• | overseeing our policies and practices regarding philanthropic and political activities. |
Three directors compose the nominating and corporate governance committee: Ms. Taylor (chair), Mr. Lane, and Mr. Howe. The board of directors has determined that all of the members of the nominating and corporate governance committee are independent (as independence is currently defined in Rule 5605(a)(2) of the Nasdaq listing standards). The nominating and corporate governance committee met four times during fiscal year 2014. The nominating and corporate governance committee has adopted a written charter that is available at http://investor.bluenile.com.
Criteria for Nominees. The nominating and corporate governance committee reviews the experience and characteristics appropriate for members of the board of directors and director nominees in light of the board of directors' composition at the time, and skills and expertise needed at the board of directors and committee levels. The nominating and corporate governance committee also considers such factors as possessing relevant expertise upon which to be able to offer advice and guidance to management, having sufficient time to devote to our affairs, demonstrated excellence in his or her field, having the ability to exercise sound business judgment and having the commitment to rigorously represent the long-term interests of our stockholders. However, the nominating and corporate governance committee retains the right to modify these qualifications from time to time. In the case of incumbent directors whose terms of office are set to expire, the nominating and corporate governance committee reviews such directors' overall service to us during their term, including the number of meetings attended, level of participation, quality of performance and any other relationships and transactions that might impair such directors' independence. In the case of new director candidates, the nominating and corporate governance committee also determines whether the nominee must be “independent” under Nasdaq listing standards, applicable SEC rules and regulations and the advice of counsel, if necessary. The nominating and corporate governance committee uses its network of contacts to compile a list of potential candidates, but may also engage, if it deems appropriate, a professional search firm. The nominating and corporate governance committee conducts any appropriate and necessary inquiries into the backgrounds and qualifications of possible nominees after considering the function and needs of the board of directors. The nominating and corporate governance committee meets to discuss and consider the nominees and then selects a nominee or nominees for recommendation to the board of directors by majority vote. Mr. van Schoonenberg was recommended for nomination to our nominating and corporate governance committee by our lead independent director, Mr. Potter.
The nominating and corporate governance committee will consider properly submitted director nominees recommended by stockholders. The nominating and corporate governance committee does not intend to alter the manner in which it evaluates nominees based on whether or not the nominee was recommended by a stockholder. Stockholders who wish to recommend individuals for consideration by the nominating and corporate governance committee to become nominees for election to the board of directors may do so by delivering a written recommendation to the nominating and corporate governance committee at the following address: 411 First Avenue South, Suite 700, Seattle, Washington 98104, Attention: Corporate Secretary, at least 120 days prior to the anniversary date of the mailing of our proxy statement for the last annual meeting of stockholders. Our bylaws contain other specific requirements to properly submit a director nomination to our stockholders. A recommendation of a nominee to the nominating and corporate governance committee shall not be deemed to satisfy the nomination requirements set forth in our bylaws.
Diversity. While the nominating and corporate governance committee does not have a formal diversity policy for board membership, the committee seeks directors who represent a mix of backgrounds and experiences that will enhance the quality of the board's deliberations and decisions. The nominating and corporate governance committee identifies qualified potential candidates without regard to any candidate's race, color, disability, gender, national origin, religion or creed. As part of the process of identifying candidates, the nominating and corporate governance committee evaluates how a particular candidate would strengthen and increase the diversity of the board of directors in terms of that candidate's possible contribution to the board of directors' overall balance of perspectives, backgrounds, knowledge, experience, skill sets, and expertise in substantive matters pertaining to our business.
STOCKHOLDER COMMUNICATIONS WITH THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The board of directors has adopted a formal process by which stockholders may communicate with the board of directors or any of our individual directors. Stockholders who wish to communicate with the board of directors may do so by sending written
communications addressed to the Corporate Secretary of Blue Nile at 411 First Avenue South, Suite 700, Seattle, Washington 98104. All communications will be compiled by our Corporate Secretary and submitted to the board of directors or the individual directors, as applicable, on a periodic basis.
CODE OF ETHICS
We have adopted the Blue Nile, Inc. Code of Ethics that applies to all officers, directors and employees, including our chief executive officer, chief financial officer, controller, and persons performing similar functions. The Code of Ethics is available on our website at http://investor.bluenile.com/governance.cfm. If we make any substantive amendments to the Code of Ethics or grant any waiver from a provision of the Code of Ethics to any executive officer or director, we will promptly disclose the nature of the amendment or waiver on our website and file a Current Report on Form 8-K to the extent required by law and the Nasdaq listing standards.
PROPOSAL 2
RATIFICATION OF SELECTION OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
The audit committee of the board of directors has selected Deloitte & Touche LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for fiscal year ending January 3, 2016 and has further directed that management submit the selection of the independent registered public accounting firm for ratification by the stockholders at the Annual Meeting. Deloitte & Touche LLP has served as our independent registered public accounting firm since 2006. Representatives of Deloitte & Touche LLP are expected to be present at the Annual Meeting. They will have an opportunity to make a statement if they so desire and will be available to respond to appropriate questions.
Neither our bylaws nor other governing documents or law require stockholder ratification of the selection of Deloitte & Touche LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm. The audit committee, however, is submitting the selection of Deloitte & Touche LLP to the stockholders for ratification as a matter of good corporate practice. If the stockholders fail to ratify the selection, the audit committee will reconsider whether or not to retain that firm. Even if the selection is ratified, the audit committee in its discretion may direct the appointment of a different independent registered public accounting firm at any time during the year if they determine that such a change would be in the best interest of our stockholders.
The affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the shares present in person or represented by proxy and entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting will be required to ratify the selection of Deloitte & Touche LLP. Abstentions will have the same effect as a vote against this proposal.
Principal Accountant Fees and Services
The following table represents aggregate fees billed to us for the fiscal years ended December 29, 2013 and January 4, 2015 by Deloitte & Touche LLP, our principal accountant for each of these fiscal years. All fees described below were approved by the audit committee.
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| Fiscal Year Ended |
| December 29, 2013 | | January 4, 2015 |
Audit Fees (1) | $ | 640,000 |
| | $ | 582,900 |
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Audit-related Fees | — |
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Tax Fees (2) | 39,429 |
| | 29,700 |
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All Other Fees (3) | 2,409 |
| | 2,600 |
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Total Fees | $ | 681,838 |
| | $ | 615,200 |
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(1) | Audit fees consist of fees billed by Deloitte & Touche LLP for (a) the audit of our annual financial statements included in our 2014 Annual Report on Form 10-K and review of financial statements included in our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q; (b) the audit of our internal control over financial reporting with the objective of obtaining reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material aspects; (c) services that are normally provided by Deloitte & Touche LLP in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements. |
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(2) | Tax fees in fiscal 2014 relate to 2013 federal, state, and foreign tax return preparation. Tax fees in fiscal 2013 relate to 2012 federal, state and foreign tax return preparation as well as consultation regarding certain tax matters. |
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(3) | Other fees billed consist of a subscription to an online technical accounting research tool. |
Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures
The audit committee has adopted policies and procedures for the pre-approval of audit and non-audit services rendered by our independent registered public accounting firm. These policies generally provide for the pre-approval of specified services in the defined categories of audit services, audit-related services, and tax services up to specified amounts. Pre-approval may also be given as part of the audit committee's approval of the scope of the engagement of the independent registered public accounting firm or on an individual explicit case-by-case basis before the independent registered public accounting firm is engaged to provide each service. The pre-approval of services may be delegated to one or more of the audit committee's members, but the decision must be reported to and ratified by the full audit committee at its next scheduled meeting. As such, the engagement of Deloitte & Touche LLP to render all of the services described in the categories above was approved by the audit committee in advance of rendering those services or approved by a delegate and subsequently ratified by the audit committee at its next scheduled meeting.
The audit committee has determined that the rendering of services other than audit services by Deloitte & Touche LLP is compatible with maintaining the principal accountant's independence.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS
A VOTE IN FAVOR OF PROPOSAL 2.
EQUITY COMPENSATION PLAN INFORMATION
We currently maintain two compensation plans that provide for the issuance of our common stock to officers and other employees, directors and consultants, our 2004 Employee Stock Purchase Plan and our 2013 Equity Incentive Plan (which is a successor plan to our 1999 Equity Incentive Plan, our 2004 Equity Incentive Plan, and our 2004 Non-Employee Directors' Stock Option Plan). Each of these plans has been approved by our stockholders. The following table summarizes our equity compensation plan information as of January 4, 2015:
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| Number of Securities to be Issued Upon Exercise of Outstanding Options, Warrants and Rights (a) | | Weighted-Average Exercise Price of Outstanding Options, Warrants and Rights (b) | | Number of Securities Remaining Available for Future Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans (Excluding Securities Reflected in Column a) (c) |
Equity compensation plans approved by stockholders(4) | 1,130,007(1) | | 39.56(3) | | 2,329,750(2) |
Equity compensation plans not approved by stockholders | — | | — | | — |
Total | 1,130,007(1) | | 39.56(3) | | 2,329,750(2) |
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(1) | Includes 160 shares of common stock issuable under the 1999 Equity Incentive Plan, 840,447 shares of common stock issuable under the 2004 Plan, 127,500 shares of common stock issuable under the 2004 Non-Employee Director Plan, 0 shares of common stock under the 2004 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, and 161,900 shares of common stock under the 2013 Equity Incentive Plan. |
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(2) | On May 21, 2013, our stockholders approved the 2013 Equity Incentive Plan effective as of such date. Any equity compensation that would have been granted under the 2004 Non-Employee Director Plan or under the 2004 Equity Incentive Plan is now granted under the 2013 Equity Incentive Plan. As of January 4, 2015, there were 1,329,750 shares of common stock reserved for future grants under the 2013 Equity Incentive Plan and 1,000,000 shares were available for grant under the 2004 Employee Stock Purchase Plan. |
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(3) | Calculation excludes shares subject to restricted stock unit awards. |
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(4) | Our 2013 Equity Incentive Plan was approved by our stockholders at the 2013 annual meeting. Additionally, our prior equity compensation plans were approved by our stockholders prior to our initial public offering in May 2004 and the 2004 Equity Incentive Plan was approved again by stockholders at the 2008 annual meeting to meet the requirements of Internal Revenue Code Section 162(m) (“Section 162(m)”). |
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF
CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The following table sets forth certain information regarding the ownership of our common stock as of March 21, 2015, except as otherwise indicated, by (i) each director and nominee for director, (ii) each of our named executive officers (as defined herein), (iii) all of our current executive officers, directors and nominees for director as a group, and (iv) all those known by us to be beneficial owners of more than five percent of our common stock. Unless otherwise noted below, the address of each beneficial owner listed in the table is c/o Blue Nile, Inc., 411 First Avenue South, Suite 700, Seattle, Washington 98104.
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| Beneficial Ownership |
Beneficial Owner(1) | Number of Shares |
| | Percent of Total(2) |
T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. | 1,690,759 |
| (3) | 14.2% |
100 E. Pratt Street Baltimore, MD 21202 | | | |
Wasatch Advisors, Inc. | 1,661,381 |
| (4) | 14.0% |
505 Wakara Way, 3rd Floor Salt Lake City, UT 84108 | | | |
Morgan Stanley | 1,380,424 |
| (5) | 11.6% |
1585 Broadway New York, NY 10036 | | | |
BlackRock, Inc. | 1,102,558 |
| (6) | 9.3% |
55 East 52nd Street New York, NY 10022 | | | |
The Vanguard Group, Inc. | 845,986 |
| (7) | 7.1% |
100 Vanguard Blvd. Malvern, PA 19355 | | | |
Rutabaga Capital Management | 809,979 |
| (8) | 6.8% |
64 Broad Street, 3rd Floor Boston, MA 02109 | | | |
State Street Corporation | 606,454 |
| (9) | 5.1% |
State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 | | | |
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Officers and Directors | | | |
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Harvey Kanter | 160,003 |
| (10) | 1.3% |
David Binder | 57,525 |
| (11) | * |
Julie Yoakum | 42,847 |
| (12) | * |
Jonathan Sainsbury | 74,541 |
| (13) | * |
Lauren Neiswender | 96,030 |
| (14) | * |
Mary Alice Taylor | 48,219 |
| (15) | * |
Leslie Lane | 32,019 |
| (16) | * |
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| | | | |
| Beneficial Ownership |
Mindy Meads | 7,683 |
| (17) | * |
Michael Potter | 36,568 |
| (18) | * |
Steve Scheid | 37,744 |
| (19) | * |
Christopher Bruzzo | 27,784 |
| (20) | * |
Scott Howe | 4,334 |
| (21) | * |
Robert van Schoonenberg | — |
| (22) | * |
All current executive officers and directors as a group (13 persons) | 625,297 |
| (23) | 5.0% |
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(1) | Unless otherwise indicated in the footnotes to this table and subject to community property laws where applicable, we believe that each of the stockholders named in this table has sole voting and investment power with respect to the shares indicated as beneficially owned. |
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(2) | Applicable percentages are based on 11,876,677 shares outstanding on March 21, 2015, provided that any additional shares of common stock that a stockholder has the right to acquire within 60 days after March 21, 2015 are deemed to be outstanding for the purpose of calculating that stockholder’s beneficial ownership percentage, but are not deemed outstanding for computing the ownership percentage of any other person other than the executive officers and directors as a group. |
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(3) | This information is as of December 31, 2014 and is based solely on information reported on a Schedule 13G filed on February 10, 2015 on behalf of T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. and T. Rowe Price New Horizons Fund, Inc. According to the report, T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. beneficially owns an aggregate of 1,690,759 shares and T. Rowe Price New Horizons Fund, Inc. beneficially owns an aggregate of 1,461,488 shares. T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. has sole voting power with respect to 220,171 shares and sole dispositive power with respect to 1,690,759 shares. T. Rowe Price New Horizons Fund, Inc. has sole voting power with respect to 1,461,488 shares and sole dispositive power with respect to 0 shares. |
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(4) | This information is as of December 31, 2014 and is based solely on information reported on a Schedule 13G filed on February 17, 2015 on behalf of Wasatch Advisors, Inc. According to the report, Wasatch Advisors, Inc. beneficially owns an aggregate of 1,661,381 shares. Wasatch Advisors, Inc. has sole voting and dispositive power with respect 1,661,381 shares. |
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(5) | This information is as of December 31, 2014 and is based solely on information reported on a Schedule 13G filed on February 12, 2015 on behalf of Morgan Stanley and Morgan Stanley Investment Management Inc. Morgan Stanley Investment Management, Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Morgan Stanley. According to the report, Morgan Stanley beneficially owns an aggregate of 1,380,424 shares and has sole voting and shared dispositive power with respect to 1,380,424 shares. Morgan Stanley Investment Management, Inc. beneficially owns an aggregate of 1,380,424 shares and has sole voting and shared dispositive power with respect to 1,380,424 shares. |
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(6) | This information is as of December 31, 2014 and is based solely on information reported on a Schedule 13G filed on January 15, 2015 on behalf of BlackRock, Inc. According to the report, BlackRock, Inc. beneficially owns an aggregate of 1,102,558 shares. BlackRock, Inc. has sole voting power with respect to 1,063,891 shares and sole dispositive power with respect to 1,102,558 shares. |
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(7) | This information is as of December 31, 2014 and is based solely on information reported on a Schedule 13G filed on February 11, 2015 on behalf of The Vanguard Group. According to the report, The Vanguard Group beneficially owns an aggregate of 845,986 shares. The Vanguard Group has sole voting power with respect to 16,571 shares, sole dispositive power with respect to 830,015 shares and shared dispositive power with respect to 15,971 shares. |
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(8) | This information is as of December 31, 2014 and is based solely on information reported on a Schedule 13G filed on February 13, 2015 on behalf of Rutabaga Capital Management. According to the report, Rutabaga Capital Management beneficially owns an aggregate of 809,979 shares. Rutabaga Capital Management has sole voting power with respect to 696,429 shares, shared voting power with respect to 113,550 shares and sole dispositive power with respect to 809,979 shares. |
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(9) | This information is as of December 31, 2014 and is based solely on information reported on a Schedule 13G filed on February 12, 2015 on behalf of State Street Corporation. According to the report, State Street Corporation beneficially owns an aggregate of 606,454 shares. State Street Corporation has sole voting power with respect to 0 shares, sole dispositive power with respect to 0 shares and shared dispositive power with respect to 606,454 shares. |
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(10) | Includes 144,506 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options that are exercisable within 60 days of March 21, 2015 and 5,919 RSUs subject to release within 60 days of March 21, 2015. |
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(11) | Includes 49,566 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options that are exercisable within 60 days of March 21, 2015 and 3,308 RSUs subject to release within 60 days of March 21, 2015. |
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(12) | Includes 38,620 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options that are exercisable within 60 days of March 21, 2015 and 569 RSUs subject to release within 60 days of March 21, 2015. |
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(13) | Includes 68,909 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options that are exercisable within 60 days of March 21, 2015 and 555 RSUs subject to release within 60 days of March 21, 2015. |
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(14) | Includes 92,978 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options that are exercisable within 60 days of March 21, 2015 and 402 RSUs subject to release within 60 days of March 21, 2015. |
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(15) | Includes 33,452 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options that are exercisable within 60 days of March 21, 2015 and no RSUs subject to release within 60 days of March 21, 2015. |
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(16) | Includes 22,937 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options that are exercisable within 60 days of March 21, 2015 and no RSUs subject to release within 60 days of March 21, 2015. |
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(17) | Includes 4,051 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options that are exercisable within 60 days of March 21, 2015 and 198 RSUs subject to release within 60 days of March 21, 2015. |
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(18) | Includes 27,750 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options that are exercisable within 60 days of March 21, 2015 and no RSUs subject to release within 60 days of March 21, 2015. |
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(19) | Includes 27,750 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options that are exercisable within 60 days of March 21, 2015 and no RSUs subject to release within 60 days of March 21, 2015. |
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(20) | Includes 24,472 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options that are exercisable within 60 days of March 21, 2015 and no RSUs subject to release within 60 days of March 21, 2015. |
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(21) | Includes no shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options that are exercisable within 60 days of March 21, 2015 and 133 RSUs subject to release within 60 days of March 21, 2015. |
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(22) | Mr. van Schoonenberg joined us in February 2015, and he did not own any shares as of March 21, 2015. He did not have any shares of stock issuable upon the exercise of options within 60 days of March 21, 2015 and no RSUs subject to release within 60 days of March 21, 2015. |
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(23) | Includes shares held by our current executive officers and our board of directors, including the shares described in notes (10) through (22) above. |
SECTION 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance
Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 requires our directors and executive officers, and persons who own more than ten percent of a registered class of our equity securities, to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission initial reports of ownership and reports of changes in ownership of our common stock and other equity securities. Officers, directors and greater than ten percent stockholders are required by Securities and Exchange Commission regulation to furnish us with copies of all Section 16(a) forms they file.
To our knowledge, based solely on a review of the copies of such reports furnished to us and written representations that no other reports were required, during the fiscal year ended January 4, 2015, all Section 16(a) filing requirements applicable to our officers, directors and greater than ten percent beneficial owners were complied with, except that due to our administrative error, Mr. Bruzzo and Mr. Howe reported one transaction one day late on Form 4s filed on February 14, 2014.
PROPOSAL 3
ADVISORY VOTE APPROVING EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Pursuant to the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”), we are asking our stockholders to vote, on an advisory basis, to approve the compensation of our named executive officers as described in this proxy statement. This proposal, commonly known as a “say-on-pay” proposal, gives our stockholders the opportunity to express their views on the compensation of our named executive officers. At our 2011 annual meeting of stockholders, our stockholders indicated their preference that we solicit a “say-on-pay vote” every year. The board of directors has adopted a policy that is consistent with that preference.
As described in detail under the heading “Compensation Discussion and Analysis,” our executive compensation program is designed to attract, motivate and retain our named executive officers, who are critical to our success. We urge our stockholders to read the “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” and the tables and narrative that follow for additional details about our executive compensation program, including information about the fiscal year 2014 compensation paid to our named executive officers. We believe that our executive compensation program is reasonable, competitive, and strongly focused on pay-for-performance principles. The compensation committee measures performance and sets goals and objectives on the basis of financial and individual results that it believes will position us for long-term sustainable success.
The compensation committee regularly reviews the compensation program for our executives to ensure they achieve the desired goals of aligning our executive compensation structure with our stockholders' interests and current market practices. We believe that our executive compensation program appropriately aligns pay and performance and enables us to attract and retain talented executives.
Advisory Vote and Board Recommendation. We request stockholder approval of the 2014 compensation of our named executive officers as disclosed in this proxy statement pursuant to the SEC's compensation disclosure rules (which disclosure includes the “Compensation Discussion and Analysis,” the compensation tables, and the narrative disclosures that accompany the compensation tables within this proxy statement). This vote is not intended to address any specific element of compensation, but rather the overall compensation of our named executive officers and the compensation philosophy, policies and practices described in this proxy statement.
Accordingly, we ask that you vote “FOR” the following resolution at this meeting:
“RESOLVED, that the stockholders of Blue Nile, Inc. approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation of the named executive officers, as disclosed in Blue Nile's proxy statement for the 2015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders pursuant to the compensation disclosure rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Compensation Discussion and Analysis, the 2014 Summary Compensation Table, and the other related tables and disclosure within this proxy statement.”
To be approved, the compensation of our named executive officers must receive “For” votes from the holders of a majority of our shares present and entitled to vote either in person or by proxy. You may vote “For,” “Against,” or “Abstain” from the proposal to approve the compensation of our named executive officers. As an advisory vote, the outcome of the vote on this proposal is not binding upon us. However, our compensation committee, which is responsible for designing and administering our executive compensation program, values the opinions expressed by our stockholders in their vote on this proposal and will consider the outcome of this vote when making future compensation decisions for our named executive officers.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS
A VOTE OF “FOR” THE APPROVAL OF THE COMPENSATION OF OUR NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS (PROPOSAL 3).
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
Set forth below is the name, age, position and a brief summary of the business experience of each of our executive officers as of March 21, 2015.
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Name | Age | Position |
Harvey Kanter | 53 | Chairman of the Board of Directors, Chief Executive Officer and President |
David Binder | 45 | Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer, and Chief Financial Officer |
Julie Yoakum | 55 | Chief Merchandising Officer |
Jon Sainsbury | 36 | President of International |
Lauren Neiswender | 42 | General Counsel and Corporate Secretary |
Harvey Kanter has served as our chief executive officer, president and director since March 30, 2012. He has served as the chairman of the board of directors since January 1, 2014. He served as the chief executive officer and president of Moosejaw Mountaineering and Backcountry Travel, Inc., a leading multi-channel retailer of premium outdoor apparel and gear, January 2009 to March 2012. From April 2003 to June 2008, Mr. Kanter served in various executive positions at Michaels Stores, Inc. (“Michaels”), a specialty retailer of arts and crafts, most recently serving as the executive vice president and managing director from March 2006 to June 2008. While at Michaels, Mr. Kanter also served as the president of Aaron Brothers, Inc., a division of Michaels, from April 2003 to March 2006. From October 1995 to March 2003, Mr. Kanter served in various management positions at Eddie Bauer, Inc. (“Eddie Bauer”), a premium outdoor retailer, including serving as the vice president and managing director of Eddie Bauer Home, a division of Eddie Bauer. Prior to Eddie Bauer, Mr. Kanter held positions at several other retailers, including Sears Roebuck Company, a multi-line retailer, and Broadway Stores, Inc. (known as Carter Hawley Hale Department Stores).
David Binder has served as our executive vice president, chief administrative officer, and chief financial officer since February 2014. From August 2011 to February 2014, he served as our chief financial officer. From January 2008 to July 2011, Mr. Binder served as chief financial officer and treasurer of Infospace, Inc., an online search and e-commerce company. From October 2004 to December 2007, Mr. Binder was the vice president of finance at Infospace. From November 2001 to October 2004, Mr. Binder was the senior director of business development at Drugstore.com, Inc., an online drugstore. Prior to Drugstore.com, Inc., Mr. Binder served as the director of financial planning and analysis at Edge2net Inc., a VOIP telecommunications provider, as the director of finance at HomeGrocer.com, Inc., an e-commerce retailer, and as the director of planning, strategy, and competitive analysis at AT&T Wireless, a wireless telecommunications business.
Julie Yoakum has served as our chief merchandising officer since June 2012. Prior to joining Blue Nile, Ms. Yoakum served as account service director at Hornall Anderson, a branding, strategy, and interactive design agency, from March 2008 to June 2012. From October 1995 to June 2000, Ms. Yoakum worked in various roles at Eddie Bauer, Inc., a premium outdoor retailer, most recently serving as the executive vice president of merchandising, product development and sourcing from June 1997 to June 2000.
Jon Sainsbury has served as our president of international since April 2014. He previously served as our vice president of marketing and head of strategy from February 2013 to April 2014, and our vice president of marketing from June 2008 to February 2013. He has also served in various other rules at the Company, including our senior marketing manager, search marketing manager, international program manager, and senior marketing analyst. Prior to joining us, Mr. Sainsbury was an associate consultant with Bain & Company, a management consulting firm.
Lauren Neiswender has served as our general counsel and ethics compliance officer since October 2004 and has served as our corporate secretary since February 2010. Prior to joining us, Ms. Neiswender was an attorney at Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, PC.
Our executive officers are appointed by the board of directors and serve until their successors are elected or appointed. There are no family relationships among any of our directors or executive officers.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Compensation Discussion and Analysis
This Compensation Discussion and Analysis (“CD&A”) explains our compensation philosophy, policies, and practices for the following executives, who are referred to in this CD&A and in the tables that follow as our “named executive officers” or “NEOs”:
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• | Harvey Kanter, our chairman, chief executive officer, and president; |
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• | David Binder, our executive vice president, chief administrative officer, and chief financial officer; |
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• | Julie Yoakum, our chief merchandising officer; |
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• | Jon Sainsbury, our president of international; and |
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• | Lauren Neiswender, our general counsel and corporate secretary. |
Company Overview
Blue Nile was founded in 1999 on the premise that there is a better way to buy diamonds and fine jewelry. Our cost-efficient, low-overhead business model drives exceptional value to our consumers and profitability to the company. We have an innovative supply chain that creates superior market position and the world’s largest selection of independently-certified diamonds.
Business Highlights
At the beginning of fiscal year 2012, we launched a strategy to reignite growth after four years of modest expansion. From the period of 2008 to 2011, we grew the business by an average annual rate of 2.4% and added $28.7 million in total revenue. Given the relatively small scale of our business, we believed we could create significantly greater value by accelerating growth, gaining market share, and building a lasting brand by acquiring more customers. Through investments in pricing, marketing, product assortment, and the user experience, we grew the business by an average rate of 10.9% and added $125.5 million in revenue the three years starting 2012 through 2014. During this period, we also diversified our sales by increasing our international base of revenue. Most significantly, we opened a retail office in mainland China and hired local staff to grow our sales in this large market. Since 2012, international sales grew by an average rate of 13.3% and represents 17.1% of total revenue at the end of 2014.
The charts below demonstrate our longer-term trailing twelve month revenue growth and our trailing twelve month growth in Asia-Pacific since 2012.
Highlights of Fiscal Year 2014
Fiscal year 2014 was another year of profitable growth for us. And while our performance levels were below our expectations, we gained market share and made several important financial achievements. We believe in our core strategy to: (1) offer consumers the best value, selection, and quality of products, (2) provide an industry-leading digital shopping experience, and (3) expand our business internationally. We do and will continue to evaluate the best way to implement the strategy in light of our results and the industry and consumer environment.
Summarized below are our key financial results for fiscal year 2014 and fourth quarter 2014.
For fiscal year 2014, we reported:
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• | Net sales of $473.5 million compared to $450.0 million for fiscal year 2013, an increase of 5.2%. |
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• | Net income for the fiscal year 2014 was $9.7 million compared to $10.9 million in fiscal year 2013 and earnings per diluted share for fiscal year 2014 totaled $0.80 compared to $0.85 in fiscal year 2013. Net income for the fiscal year 2013 included an income tax benefit of $1.1 million or $0.08 per diluted share resulting from certain discrete tax items for the third quarter of 2013. |
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• | Non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA(1) for the fiscal year 2014 was $22.1 million, compared to $22.4 million for 2013. |
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• | Net cash provided by operating activities totaled $17.2 million for the fiscal year 2014 compared to $23.4 million for the fiscal year ended 2013. |
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• | Non-GAAP free cash flow(2) for the fiscal year 2014 was $13.4 million compared to $17.9 million for the fiscal year 2013. |
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• | In 2014, we repurchased approximately 1.2 million shares of our common stock for a total cost of $40.3 million. Since the inception of our stock repurchase program in the first quarter of 2005 through January 4, 2015, we have used our cash to repurchase approximately 9 million shares or 76% of our outstanding shares. We continue to believe that our share repurchase program is an effective way to create long-term value for our shareholders. |
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• | Blue Nile’s fiscal year ends on the Sunday nearest to December 31. The fiscal year ended on January 4, 2015 which included 53 weeks with the 53rd week falling in our fourth quarter. Fiscal years ended on December 29, 2013, December 30, 2012, January 1, 2012 and January 2, 2011 each included 52 weeks. Net sales for the additional week were estimated at $5.9 million, which contributed 4.1% of growth for the fourth quarter 2014 and 1.3% for the fiscal year ended January 4, 2015. Net income for the additional week was estimated at $0.2 million or $0.02 in earnings per diluted share. |
We drove strong results in fourth quarter 2014, including:
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• | Net sales growth of 7.9% over 2013 fourth quarter; |
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• | US engagement net sales of $85 million grew by 7.9% over 2013 fourth quarter; |
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• | US non-engagement net sales of $48.8 million grew by 6.3% over 2013 fourth quarter; and |
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• | International net sales of $23.6 million grew by 10.9% over 2013 fourth quarter. |
1 We define non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA as earnings before interest and other income, taxes, depreciation and amortization, adjusted to exclude the effects of stock-based compensation expense. A reconciliation of this non-GAAP measure can be found in the exhibit to our Current Report on Form 8-K furnished to the SEC on February 10, 2015.
2 We define non-GAAP free cash flow as net cash provided by (used in) operating activities less cash outflows for purchases of fixed assets, including internal use software and website development. A reconciliation of this non-GAAP measure can be found in the exhibit to our Current Report on Form 8-K furnished to the SEC on February 10, 2015.
Compensation Highlights
2014 Compensation Highlights
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• | In advance of the 2014 executive compensation adjustments, the compensation committee engaged Milliman, as its independent outside compensation consultant, to evaluate our executive compensation relative to market data. |
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• | In 2014, we made several organizational changes to streamline the executive team and improve performance. In particular, we decided not to replace our former senior vice president with responsibility over operations, customer service, and fraud. Mr. Kanter and Mr. Binder took direct responsibility over these functions, which leverage their expertise and skills, stream-line our executive team, and result in a cost savings to the business. The savings from our executive changes exceed corresponding increases in Mr. Kanter and Mr. Binder’s 2014 compensation adjustments. |
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• | In February 2014, our compensation committee reviewed executive compensation and made adjustments to reflect changes in the role and responsibilities of some executives and made market adjustments, as appropriate. |
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• | Mr. Kanter’s 2014 base salary and equity grant value were increased to reflect his increased direct oversight of our customer service function and his additional responsibilities as our chairman of the board of directors, a position he assumed in January 2014. |
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• | In February 2014, the compensation committee awarded equity grants, as further detailed below, to each of our NEOs, reflecting the compensation committee’s continued belief that equity should be a substantial portion of each NEO’s compensation package. The compensation committee awarded the value of the equity in the form of restricted stock units and stock options. |
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• | Approximately 65% of Mr. Kanter’s 2014 target total direct compensation ("TDC") was at-risk, performance-based compensation. Over half of the 2014 TDC for the other named executive officers was at-risk, performance-based compensation. Equity was a significant component of each NEO’s compensation reflecting the compensation committee’s belief that equity incents our executives to drive towards long-term value creation. |
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• | We did not pay our NEOs a cash bonus under our 2014 incentive cash bonus plan. While the our results exceeded the minimum threshold to pay bonuses under the plan, given the general slowdown in the jewelry industry, the results were below target, and we did not believe performance was sufficient to justify any payment. |
2015 Compensation Highlights
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• | In advance of the 2015 executive compensation adjustments, the compensation committee engaged Towers Watson, as its independent outside compensation consultant, to provide market data on the chief executive officer and chief financial officer roles, retention awards, and executive change of control and severance benefits. |
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• | In the first quarter of 2015, the compensation committee reviewed the compensation paid to each of our NEOs, and it made the following adjustments to their 2015 compensation: |
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- | 2% merit increase in Mr. Kanter’s base salary and no change to his bonus target as a percent of base salary; |
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- | 2% merit increase in Ms. Yoakum, Mr. Sainsbury, or Ms. Neiswender’s base salaries and no changes to their bonus target as a percent of base salary; |
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- | following consultation with Towers Watson, 21% increase in Mr. Binder’s base salary (from to $310,000 to $375,000), an increase that reflects Mr. Binder’s personal performance and additional responsibilities and more closely aligns Mr. Binder’s cash compensation with the market median; |
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- | equity grant to each of the NEOs in the form of restricted stock units; these 2015 equity grants vest over four years and the value of the equity granted to the NEOs in 2015 is materially similar to the value of the equity issued to the NEOs in 2014; and |
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- | issued special retention grants to Mr. Kanter and Mr. Binder, valued at $2.5 million and $1.5 million, respectively; these retention grants have a five year vesting schedule and were issued to retain and further motivate these key executives over the next five years to continue to implement our growth strategy and to create long-term shareholder value. |
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• | In the first quarter of 2015, in light of the expiration of our amended and restated change of control agreement, the compensation committee, in consultation with Towers Watson, reviewed the change of control benefits offered to our executives and reviewed Mr. Kanter’s severance benefits. It reviewed and adjusted these benefits, in light of market data, the desire to retain key executives in a competitive market for executive talent, and the desire to continue to keep these executives motivated and focused on implementing our growth strategy. The specific modifications to the change of control benefits are more fully described below. |
The following charts illustrate the 2014 pay mix of our chief executive officer, chief financial officer, and the average pay mix of our other named executive officers. For purposes of the charts, the 2014 base salary is annualized and the bonus is the target bonus as a percent of the annualized base salary. The amounts calculated and represented in the charts below do not reflect the actual amounts awarded to our named executive officers. The long term equity incentive percentages are calculated using the grant date fair value of the stock options and restricted stock units underlying the target long-term equity incentive, computed in accordance with Topic 718 of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB ASC Topic 718”). The charts do not account for payments we make for health and life insurance benefits, transportation allowance, or 401(k) matching contributions, as those amounts are relatively small and are generally available to all of our other salaried employees.
Say on Pay.
Since our first say on pay vote in 2011, we have received at least 90% shareholder approval of our executive compensation.
Important Principles of our Executive Compensation Program.
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• | Emphasis on Pay for Performance. Our executive compensation is weighted toward at-risk, performance-based compensation in the form of a short-term cash incentive opportunity that is based on the achievement of specified near-term financial results and personal objectives, and a long-term incentive opportunity in the form of equity awards. |
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• | No Stock-Option Repricing. Since going public in 2004, we have not repriced any underwater stock options. |
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• | Change of Control Benefits. Following a change of control, none of our named executive officers is entitled to change of control benefits, unless there is: (1) a change of control and (2) the executive is terminated without cause or resigns for good reason following a change in control (commonly referred to as double-trigger change in control benefits). The cash benefits payable to our named executive officers upon a double-trigger change of control event do not exceed two times base salary and annual bonus. |
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• | Severance Benefits. Our chief executive officer is only entitled to severance benefits if he is terminated without cause and his benefits do not exceed two times his salary and bonus. None of the other executives are entitled to severance benefits outside of a change of control. |
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• | Offer Letters. We typically issue standard letters to our executive officers at the time of hire, and these letters do not provide for guaranteed annual equity grants, guaranteed increases to salaries, or guaranteed annual incentive bonuses. All of our executives are “at will” employees. |
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• | No Tax Gross-Ups. We do not offer tax gross-up to any of our named executive officers. |
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• | Perquisites. We do not typically provide any special executive perquisites. As our compensation committee deems appropriate, we occasionally pay the relocation expenses and tuition reimbursements expenses for key employees. We also provide some minimal perquisites that we broadly provide to all of our full-time regular employees, such as an annual $720 transportation allowance and a merchandise discount. |
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• | Policy Against Speculative Trading. We maintain a “no-hedging” policy in our insider trading policy that prohibits all of our directors, officers and employees from hedging their economic interest in the shares of our stock they hold. |
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• | Independent Compensation Consultant. Our compensation committee engages its own independent compensation consultant from time to time as it determines appropriate, and this consultant does not provide any services to management. |
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• | Risk Analysis. We believe the structure of our executive compensation program minimizes the risk of inappropriate risk-taking by our executives. |
Philosophy and Objectives of Our Compensation Program
Philosophy. We try to establish a high performing environment whereby each executive continually strives for excellence, and we believe such excellence should be rewarded through responsible compensation practices. We seek to attract and retain executives who are passionate about building an iconic consumer brand. As part of our compensation philosophy, our executive compensation packages are designed with a focus on pay-for-performance. The compensation committee believes that our most senior executives have the greatest ability to influence our performance and therefore their compensation should primarily be performance-based to reinforce the alignment of interests between the executives and our stockholders.
Compensation Objectives. With the philosophy set forth above in mind, our executive compensation package is designed to achieve the following key objectives:
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• | Attract and Retain. Attract and retain top talent whose knowledge, skills, experience, and performance help us to achieve our business goals; |
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• | Motivate and Reward. Motivate executives to perform with excellence and reward them when they achieve key short- and long-term goals that create stockholder value and position us for sustainable long-term success; and |
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• | Align Interests with Stockholders. Align executive interests with those of our stockholders. |
Compensation Components and How Components Relate to Objectives.
To achieve our objectives, we provide base salary, performance-based annual cash incentives, equity awards, and broad-based employee benefits, and, when the board of directors deems appropriate, sign-on bonuses, severance, tuition reimbursement, and change of control benefits. The chart below sets forth the components of our executive compensation program, the objectives of each component, and the basis for decisions regarding each component:
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Component | Objectives | Basis |
Base Salary | • attract and retain by paying a fixed level of cash compensation for executive's day-to-day time, service, and experience | • reviewed on an annual basis and at the time of hire or promotion • material criteria when determining base salary: - recommendations from our chief executive officer and chairman for non-CEO compensation - performance - responsibilities, role and expected contributions - market data, as needed - negotiations with individual new executives, as applicable |
Performance-Based Annual Incentive Bonus | • motivate executives to achieve our annual goals • align executives' interests with stockholders' interests
| • reviewed on an annual basis and at the time of hire or promotion • target bonus as a percent of salary is reviewed to ensure it is an important portion of the total cash compensation • material criteria used when determining target bonus: - recommendations from the chief executive officer and chairman for non-CEO compensation - responsibilities, role and expected contributions - ability to contribute to the achievement of our annual goals - meaningful percent of total cash compensation - balance of short and long-term compensation - market data, as needed - negotiations with individual executives |
Long-Term Incentive Compensation | • align the long-term interests of stockholders and employees by creating a strong, direct link between employee compensation and stock price appreciation • incent executives to maximize longer-term stockholder value instead of short-term gain • attract and retain exceptional executives | • reviewed on an annual basis and at the time of hire or promotion • material criteria for determining equity awards: - recommendations from the chief executive officer and chairman for non-CEO compensation - performance - responsibilities, role and expected contributions - meaningful amount of total direct compensation - market data, as needed - Black-Scholes and intrinsic value of the potential grant - potential dilution from grants - negotiations with individual new executives, as applicable |
Broad-Based Benefits | • attract and retain | • reviewed periodically • eligibility in accordance with terms of applicable broad-based benefit plans |
Severance & Change of Control Benefits
| • attract and retain • align executives' interests with stockholders' interests
| • reviewed periodically • material criteria for adjusting benefits: - recommendations from the chief executive officer and chairman for non-CEO compensation - the potential cost of the change of control benefits assuming various stock price scenarios - market data, as needed - negotiations with individual executives, as applicable |
Sign-on Bonus | • attract | • recruit high caliber, experienced executives • offset forfeited compensation opportunities |
Relocation | • attract | • attract high caliber, experienced executives by paying for expenses they may incur to move to our headquarters (or other business locations) |
Tuition Reimbursement | • development; retain | • develop and retain high potential executives |
In addition to the factors set forth above, when determining the compensation package paid to our named executive officers, our compensation committee relies on the experiences and individual knowledge of its members. In 2014, our compensation committee was comprised of Mr. Scheid, Mr. Bruzzo, Mr. Lane, and Ms. Meads. In February 2015, Mr. van Schoonenberg was appointed to the board of directors and was assigned to the compensation committee. Mr. Scheid has decided not to stand for re-election at our 2015 Annual Meeting, and a new chair to the compensation committee will be appointed at the next meeting of the board of directors in May 2015. Mr. Scheid, the current chair of our compensation committee, is the former chairman of the board of directors of Janus Capital Group, an asset management company, and has served on several public company boards. Mr. Scheid has also supervised the human resources departments at three different organizations during his career. Through his experience, Mr. Scheid has developed deep expertise in designing appropriate executive compensation packages. Additionally, Mr. Bruzzo, Mr. Lane, Ms. Meads, and Mr.
van Schoonenberg have extensive experience with executive compensation through their experience as executives and members of boards of directors at other public and private companies.
Roles and Responsibilities
Compensation Committee. Our compensation committee is comprised of all independent directors and it is responsible for establishing and administering our executive compensation program. In 2014, our compensation committee, in consultation with its independent compensation consultant, evaluated and approved the annual compensation changes of our named executive officers, as well as established the performance goals and structure for our cash incentive plan. For our non-CEO officers, our compensation committee also consulted with our chief executive officer when reviewing and adjusting the compensation of those executives.
Management. Our chief executive officer regularly consults with and attends compensation committee meetings to discuss matters of compensation philosophy and structure and to discuss and review the compensation and performance of the other executive officers. Our chief financial officer, general counsel, and vice president of human resources also regularly attend compensation committee meetings to provide requested financial and other compensation information and to update the committee on legislative changes and initiatives, compensation trends, compensation polices of the shareholder advisory firms, or any other information the compensation committee may request to facilitate their compensation decisions. No executive officer participated directly in the final determinations of the compensation committee regarding the amount of any component of his or her own 2014 compensation package.
Compensation Consultant. The compensation committee has the power to engage independent advisors to assist it in carrying out its responsibilities. In connection with its 2014 executive compensation decisions, the compensation committee engaged Milliman as its independent compensation consultant, to: (1) review our peer group; and (2) evaluate our executive compensation relative to market data. In December 2014, the compensation committee engaged Towers Watson to advise the compensation committee on its 2015 executive compensation decisions and to review our executive severance benefits relative to market data. We paid for the cost of the services provided by Milliman and Towers Watson; however, these consultants reported directly to the compensation committee and not to management. Milliman and Towers Watson only provide services to the compensation committee and do not provide any other services to us. The compensation committee retains the authority to direct, terminate, or continue the services of the compensation consultants that it engages. The compensation committee analyzed whether the work of Milliman or Towers Watson as a compensation consultant raised any conflict of interest, taking into consideration applicable independence factors under SEC rules. Based on these factors, the compensation committee determined that there were no conflicts of interest with respect to Milliman and Towers Watson providing services to the compensation committee.
Peer group. In September 2013, Milliman worked with the compensation committee to revise and modify the peer group to be used to evaluate our 2014 executive compensation. When adjusting the peer group, the compensation committee focused on the following criteria:
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• | Competitive market for executive talent in high growth consumer related organizations with a focus on specialty retail and ecommerce; |
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• | Annual revenue at a multiple of approximately 0.4-2.0 to that of Blue Nile’s; |
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• | Positive revenue growth; |
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• | Positive profit margin; and |
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• | Market capitalization of approximately $400 million to $2.0 billion. |
We removed nine companies from our peer group because they were sold or otherwise did not meet the criteria set forth above; we then added six that generally met most of the criteria set forth above. When reviewing the peer group the compensation committee focused on companies that have demonstrated financial objectives similar to our objectives and are companies that we might recruit executive talent.
Market Data. Periodically, our compensation committee reviews market data to ensure our compensation packages are competitive. The compensation committee believes that knowledge of the market enables us to retain and compensate our executives appropriately. In October 2013, Milliman provided an executive compensation study for the compensation committee that evaluated the compensation paid to our executives using data from the proxy statements of our peer companies, as well as published survey data (the “Milliman Report”). In 2015, Towers Watson provided the compensation committee with market data for the chief executive officer and chief financial officer. When the compensation committee reviews market data, they generally consider the median compensation paid to similarly situated executives as a reference point when making compensation decisions.
Milliman Report. The Milliman Report provided data illustrating the market median for each component of compensation and TDC for each executive position. For the chief executive officer, chief financial officer, chief merchandising officer and president of international, the Milliman Report included a market median based on proxy data from our peers, survey data, and a combination of proxy and survey data. When considering the median, the chart below illustrates the information in the Milliman Report that the compensation committee primarily considered when making its 2014 compensation decisions.
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| | | Market Median Considered by the Compensation Committee |
Report | Peer Group Used* | Surveys Used | Base Salary | Bonus Target as % of Base Salary | Long-Term Incentives as a % of Base Salary | Use in Compensation Decisions |
Milliman Report
| 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc.; eHealth, Inc.; Liquidity Services, Inc.; OpenTable, Inc.; PetMed Express Inc.; Shutterfly, Inc.; Ethan Allen Interiors, Inc. Movado Group, Inc., Shutterstock, Inc., Steiner Leisure Ltd., Tilly’s Inc., and Zumiez, Inc. | Culpepper Technology Executive Survey; Economic Research Institute Executive Assessor; Mercer Executive Survey Report; Milliman Executive Compensation Survey; and Towers Watson Top Management Compensation Report | Market median based on a combination proxy data and survey data for chief executive officer and chief financial officer positions
median based on survey data for the other executive officer positions | market median provided by Milliman and based on Milliman’s own experience | market median provided by Milliman and based on a combination of its own experience and a Towers Watson equity survey | Referred to as a market check for the named executive officers. Market adjustments were made to the base salaries and target bonus as a percent of salary to the chief financial officer and general counsel’s cash compensation. Also, the report influenced the compensation committee’s decision regarding the amount of the 2014 equity grant |
*removed Ancestry.com, Inc., Coach, Inc., Digital River, Inc.; Joe’s Jeans, Inc; LoopNet, Inc., Netflix, Inc., Signet Jewelers Ltd.; Tiffany & Co.; and Williams-Sonoma, Inc. Added: Ethan Allen Interiors, Inc.; Movado Group, Inc.; Shutterstock, Inc.; Steiner Leisure Ltd.; Tilly’s Inc.; and Zumiez, Inc.
2014 Total Direct Compensation. Below is a chart illustrating the changes we made to the total direct compensation, or “TDC,” of our named executive officers. As illustrated below, Mr. Kanter’s TDC increased as a reflection of his increased direct oversight of customer service and his additional responsibilities as our chairman of the board of directors. As our chairman of the board of directors, Mr. Kanter has taken on additional responsibilities to work closely with our lead independent director to structure the board meetings appropriately, focus the board on short and long-term objectives, facilitate the running of the meeting, and coordinate meetings and calls with the other directors. Additionally, following the resignation of a senior vice president last year, Mr. Kanter took on direct oversight of our customer service department so that he could be more directly connected to our customers. Mr. Binder’s and Ms. Neiswender’s compensation was balanced between cash and equity compensation to further align their compensation with the market median. Ms. Yoakum’s cash compensation remained relatively flat, and her equity compensation was reduced to align it better with market levels. Mr. Sainsbury’s total compensation was increased to reflect a change in his role and responsibilities as he transitioned from our vice president of marketing to our president of international in April 2014. His equity compensation was adjusted to better align this component of his compensation with the market levels.
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Summary of Adjustments to Compensation from 2013 to 2014 |
Executive | Annualized Base Salary | Total Target Cash Compensation* | Equity | Total Direct Compensation |
Mr. Kanter | 10% | 7% | 13% | 10% |
Mr. Binder | 13% | 22% | (33%) | (8%) |
Ms. Yoakum | 3% | 3% | (36%) | (16%) |
Mr. Sainsbury | 15% | 22% | (7%) | 8% |
Ms. Neiswender | 10% | 16% | (12%) | 3% |
*Total target cash compensation for each NEO is equal to his or her 2014 annual base salary plus annual target bonus. The actual amounts paid to executives differ because salary adjustments are typically made in February (Mr. Sainsbury received an additional adjustment in April 2014 when he changed roles) and because our named executive officers did not receive a bonus for 2014 performance.
Base Salary. In February 2014, the compensation committee reviewed and approved the base salary levels for our executives.
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Name | 2013 Annualized Base Salary | 2014 Annualized Base Salary | % Increase in Base Salary | Primary Reasons for 2014 Adjustment | 2015 Increase |
Mr. Kanter | $670,000 | $740,000 | 10% | Additional responsibilities (1) | 2% |
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Mr. Binder | $275,000 | $310,000 | 13% | Promotion, additional responsibilities, and market adjustment(2) | 21% (5) |
Ms. Yoakum | $274,050 | $282,272 | 3% | Merit adjustment | 2% |
Mr. Sainsbury | $200,850 | $230,000 | 15% | 3% merit adjustment in February 2014; additional 12% adjustment when transitioned to our president of international (3) | 2% |
Ms. Neiswender | $226,600 | $248,127 | 10% | Market adjustment (4) | 2% |
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(1) | Mr. Kanter’s base salary was increased primarily in connection with his increased direct oversight over customer service following the resignation of our senior executive officer over customer service, and his additional responsibilities as the chairman of the board of directors. |
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(2) | Mr. Binder’s adjustment was based primarily on three factors: (1) in February 2014, Mr. Binder was promoted from chief financial officer to executive vice president, chief administrative officer, and chief financial officer; (2) following the resignation of our senior vice president of operations last year, Mr. Binder took over responsibility of our fulfillment center and fraud department; and (3) market adjustments because Mr. Binder’s base salary was almost 20% below the median base salary in the Milliman Report. This median referenced by the compensation committee was based on a combination of proxy data from our peer group and survey data. |
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(3) | In February 2014, Mr. Sainsbury’s base salary was increased by 3%. In April 2014, Mr. Sainsbury transitioned from our vice president of marketing to our president of international and his base salary was increased by an additional 12%. |
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(4) | The compensation committee made a market adjustment to Ms. Neiswender’s base salary to move her salary closer to the median because her 2013 base salary was more than 20% below the median reflected in the Milliman Report using survey data. The base salaries of the other named executive officers are within a range of being 20% above or below the market median. |
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(5) | Mr. Binder’s 2015 adjustment is further discussed below in the section, “2015 Compensation Adjustments.” |
Annual Cash Incentive Bonus. In March 2014, the compensation committee approved the Executive Cash Bonus Plan for Fiscal Year 2014 (the “2014 Plan”). The 2014 Plan sets forth the annual terms that applied for 2014 under the our Performance Bonus Plan, which was approved by the our stockholders at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders held on May 19, 2010 to allow compensation payable thereunder to be deductible as performance-based compensation under Section 162(m). The 2014 Plan was intended to increase stockholder value and our success by motivating participants to achieve our key financial objectives. Each of our named executive officers was eligible for participation in the 2014 Plan.
Bonus Targets. Under the 2014 Plan, each participant was eligible to earn an incentive bonus based on the target bonus percentage determined by the compensation committee. In February 2014, the compensation committee reviewed each named executive officer’s target bonus award as a percent of base salary. When determining the appropriate bonus target as a percent of base salary, the compensation committee desires to make the bonus amount a meaningful portion of each executive’s cash compensation to further incent the executive to achieve our annual performance goals. The compensation committee also considers the amount of the bonus target relative to long-term compensation to appropriately balance the incentives and rewards for the achievement of our annual and longer-term objectives.
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Name | 2013 Bonus Target as % of 2013 Base Salary | 2014 Bonus Target as % of 2014 Base Salary | Adjustment to Target Bonus Award as a Percent of Base salary | Primary Reasons for Adjustment | 2015 Adjustment to Target Bonus as a % of Base Salary |
Mr. Kanter | 75% | 70% | (5%) | Increased base and believed the total target cash compensation was competitive and that 70% was a meaningful amount of at-risk cash compensation (1) | None |
Mr. Binder | 39% | 50% | 11% | Increased because of his promotion, increased responsibilities, and market data (2) | None |
Ms. Yoakum | 40% | 40% | 0% | No adjustment | None |
Mr. Sainsbury | 31% | 40% | 9% | Increased to reflect his role and responsibilities (3) | None |
Ms. Neiswender | 23% | 30% | 7% | Market adjustment (4) | None |
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(1) | Mr. Kanter’s base salary was increased as discussed above so his total cash compensation increased in 2014 by approximately 7%. Following a review of his total target cash compensation, the compensation committee believed that his total cash compensation was competitive and that 70% of his base salary was a meaningful amount of his cash compensation to appropriately incent Mr. Kanter to drive the achievement of annual objectives. Also, as further discussed below, the compensation committee increased the value of Mr. Kanter’s 2014 equity grant, consistent with the compensation committee’s philosophy of having the most significant portion of Mr. Kanter’s total compensation package in the form of long-term incentives. |
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(2) | Given the changes in Mr. Binder’s role and responsibilities as discussed above in “Base Salary,” the compensation committee wanted to ensure that a meaningful portion of Mr. Binder’s cash compensation is at-risk cash compensation. This further reflects the compensation committee’s belief that Mr. Binder’s target bonus compensation should reflect his direct ability to influence our results. A target bonus of 50% of his base salary is also consistent with the market median as reflected in the Milliman Report. |
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(3) | Mr. Sainsbury’s target bonus as a percent of base salary was increased to reflect Mr. Sainsbury’s role and responsibilities and reflects his ability to directly influence the achievement of our annual goals. |
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(4) | The compensation committee adjusted Ms. Neiswender’s bonus target as a percent of base salary primarily based on the market data provided in the Milliman Report. The market median reflected in the Milliman Report for similarly situated executives is 30% of base salary. |
Description of 2014 Plan. The payment of bonuses under our 2014 Plan is contingent upon the achievement of pre-determined performance goals. In structuring the 2014 Plan, the compensation committee believed revenue growth was the best indicator of our performance in 2014 based on our 2014 business objectives. The 2014 Plan was structured as follows:
Financial Performance Targets
The individual performance goals were strategic goals related to each named executive officer's area of responsibility.
When establishing the financial objectives, the compensation committee reviewed and considered our strategic initiatives, our short and long-term goals, our internal forecasts for revenue and adjusted EBITDA, and the economic and consumer environment. When setting the goals and objectives for 2014, the compensation committee expected that it would be difficult to achieve 100% of the target award based on the corporate financial goals and individual goals. The objectives were designed to be challenging and not guaranteed.
In January of 2015, our compensation committee met and reviewed the result of our fiscal year 2014 performance on the financial metrics set under the 2014 Plan. Although we achieved the revenue goal necessary to provide funding of bonus payments under the 2014 Plan, we did not achieve our revenue or adjusted EBITDA targets for the fiscal 2014 year. In light of this level of financial performance, our compensation committee decided not to pay an annual bonus to any named executive officer, without considering whether any NEO had achieved his or her personal objectives. Our fiscal 2014 performance against the targets set under our 2014 Plan is summarized below:
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Financial Objectives | Percent of Bonus Target Award | Target | Actual Result | Payout as a % of Total Target |
Revenue | 50% | $504 million | $473.5 million | 0% |
Adjusted EBITDA | 30% | $26.25 million | $22.1 million | 0% |
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Personal Objectives | 20% | Based on role | Varies by individual | Not considered due to performance on financial metrics |
Total | 100% | | | 0% |
Equity Awards. Each year, the compensation committee reviews our equity compensation component to determine the appropriate amount and mix of equity compensation. In 2014, the compensation committee continued the practice of awarding our named executive officers a mix of restricted stock units and stock options. The compensation committee decided that a mix of restricted stock units and stock options was appropriate based on the compensation committee's desire to continue to align executive interests with the interests of our stockholders, while helping control dilution, incent executives to position us for sustainable long-term growth, and retain our key executives. As in 2013, for 2014, approximately half of each named executive officer’s equity value was granted in the form of restricted stock units and approximately half was granted in the form of stock options. Restricted stock units entitle the holder to receive shares of our common stock upon the vesting date. Stock options are granted with an exercise price that is not less than 100% of the fair market value on the date of grant, so our executives receive value from option grants only if the value of our common stock appreciates over the vesting period. The stock option and restricted stock units granted to our named executive officers in February 2014 vest over a four-year period, with 1/4th of the shares vesting one year after the vesting commencement date (the "One Year Cliff") and 1/16th of the shares vesting quarterly thereafter, subject to the executive's continued service. The compensation committee believes this vesting period promotes retention.
Below is a chart reflecting the changes in the equity value granted to our named executive officers.
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| 2013 Equity Value (1) | 2014 Equity Value (1) | Change | Primary Reasons for Adjustment | 2015 Equity RSUs |
Mr. Kanter | $782,142 | $885,877 | 13% | Additional responsibilities; ensure most significant component of TDC | No material change to annual grant value; also awarded a $2.5 million retention grant |
Mr. Binder | $438,095 | $292,355 | (33%) | Market adjustment and balance of cash and equity | No material change to annual grant value; also awarded a $1.5 million retention grant |
Ms. Yoakum | $361,940 | $230,524 | (36%) | Market adjustment of equity compensation | No material change to annual grant value |
Mr. Sainsbury | $230,194 | $213,110 | (7%) | Market adjustment and balance of cash and equity | No material change to annual grant value |
Ms. Neiswender | $230,194 | $202,687 | (12%) | Market adjustment and balance of cash and equity | No material change to annual grant value |
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(1) | Equity issued as part of the 2013 and 2014 compensation package was issued in the form of restricted stock units and stock options. The value reflects aggregate grant date fair value of the award calculated in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. |
In determining the size of the February 2014 equity grant, the compensation committee considered Mr. Kanter’s recommendations (for the non-CEO executives), individual and company performance, each executive’s role, responsibilities and expected contributions, historical grants issued for comparable positions, the accounting and dilution impact of the grants, each executive’s total direct compensation, the mix of long and short-term and cash and equity compensation, and the market data provided from Milliman. In the Milliman Report, Milliman determined a market median long-term incentive compensation amount as a percent of base salary based. It determined this market median using a Towers Watson equity compensation survey and Milliman’s own experience with organizations and job levels. Using the market data as a reference point, in January 2014 the compensation committee reduced the equity amounts issued to Mr. Binder, Ms. Yoakum, Mr. Sainsbury, and Ms. Neiswender such that the amounts are more in-line with the market data, while also maintaining equity value as a significant component of the executive’s compensation package. Mr. Kanter’s equity grant value was increased compared to his 2013 equity grant to reflect his additional responsibilities over customer service and as our chairman of the board of directors. Mr. Sainsbury’s February 2014 equity grant was 24% less than the value of his 2013 equity grant. The value of Mr. Sainsbury’s May 2014 grant was based primarily on his total equity value relative to his new role and responsibilities and the value of his grant relative to that of our similarly situated executives. Mr. Sainsbury’s May 2014 grant was
issued during an open window and vests over a four-year period, with a One Year Cliff and 1/16th of the shares vesting quarterly thereafter, subject to his continued service.
2015 Compensation Adjustments.
Base Salaries. When reviewing base salaries in 2015, the compensation committee did not make material adjustments to the base salaries of the named executive officers, except Mr. Binder’s base salary was increased 21% to reflect the expansion of his role and responsibilities and his personal performance. The compensation committee also worked with our independent compensation consultant, Towers Watson, to benchmark Mr. Binder’s base salary to Towers Watson’s retail and general industry market data. Mr. Binder’s base salary adjustment aligns him closer to the median market level. Each of Mr. Kanter, Ms. Yoakum, Mr. Sainsbury, and Ms. Neiswender’s base salary was increased by 2% in 2015.
Bonus as a Percent of Base Salary. Bonus as a percent of base salary was not adjusted for any of the named executive officers. The annual cash incentive plan adopted in February 2015 is similar in structure to the 2014 Plan, except that the Section 162(m) threshold is established as an adjusted EBITDA target, and the revenue and adjusted EBITDA financial components will each be weighted at 40% for 2015, rather than 50% and 30%, respectively. Personal goals remain weighted at 20%. The compensation committee changed the weighting between revenue and adjusted EBITDA in light of our current financial forecast and the current diamond jewelry environment, which has experienced a slowdown in overall consumer spending. When making this change, the compensation committee wanted to structure a plan that continues to incent management to carefully evaluate and adjust its decisions to maximize profitably and revenue with an eye towards long-term sustainable growth.
2015 Equity Grants. The compensation committee issued equity awards to our named executive officers in February 2015 that had approximately the same values as had been awarded to each of them in 2014, each with the same four-year vesting schedule. The awards were issued in the form of restricted stock units. The compensation committee decided to issue the 2015 award solely in the form of restricted stock units because it believes that restricted stock units will align executive interests with our shareholders, will retain our executives, and will be a more efficient way to manage our share dilution to our shareholders, especially in light of our strategy to continue to repurchase our shares.
In addition, in February 2015, Mr. Kanter and Mr. Binder were each issued a special retention grant of restricted stock units, valued at $2.5 million and $1.5 million, respectively; these awards will vest quarterly over the next five years (which is longer than our typical four year vesting schedule), based on the continued service of the executive. The compensation committee believes that Mr. Kanter and Mr. Binder have a key role in the achievement of our short and long-term business objectives, and it determined that these grants were necessary to ensure the continued service of these key executives over the next five years. The size of the awards was determined such that the amount vesting each quarter would be a sufficiently meaningful amount of value to the executive to achieve the retention goal. The compensation committee also believes that the retention grants will further incent Mr. Kanter and Mr. Binder to drive long term shareholder value, as the actual value of these grants to the executive is directly tied to the long-term appreciation of our stock price.
Broad-Based Employee Benefits. All full-time regular employees, including our named executive officers, may participate in our health and welfare benefit programs, including medical, dental and vision care coverage, disability insurance, and life insurance. All full-time regular employees, including our named executive officers, receive a transportation allowance and a merchandise discount. We also provide our regular employees with the opportunity to participate in our 401(k) defined contribution retirement savings plan (the "401(k) Plan"), and receive a matching contribution from us that is subject to vesting based on years of service. We believe these benefits are consistent with benefits provided by our peer group companies and help us to attract and retain high quality employees.
Perquisites. We typically do not provide any special executive perquisites. Occasionally, the compensation committee determines that it is appropriate for us to pay relocation benefits to attract key employees (see below for additional information). We also provide some minimal perquisites that we broadly provide to all of our full-time regular employees, such as an annual $720 transportation allowance and a merchandise discount.
Employment, Severance and Change of Control Agreements. We have entered into offer letters with each of our named executive officers. Under these offer letters, the employment of each of our named executive officers is "at will" (to the greatest extent permitted by applicable law), meaning that either we or the officer may terminate their employment at any time.
We provide certain limited change of control benefits to all of our participants under the 2013 Equity Incentive Plan, including our executive officers. In the event of certain corporate transactions, if the surviving or acquiring entity elects not to assume, continue or substitute for equity awards granted under the 2013 Equity Incentive Plan, the vesting and, if applicable, exercisability of each equity award granted under the 2013 Equity Incentive Plan will accelerate in full for those whose service with us or any of our affiliates has not terminated. The compensation committee included this provision in our equity incentive plan to motivate all of our employees,
including our executive officers, to act in the best interest of our stockholders by removing the distraction of post-change of control uncertainties faced by employees, including executive officers, with regard to their equity compensation.
We also provide severance benefits under specified conditions to our named executive officers as more fully described below.
Full description of our severance benefits. In January 2012, the compensation committee adopted an amended and restated our severance plan (“2012 Severance Plan”). The 2012 Severance Plan expired in January 2015, and the compensation committee adopted a new change of control severance plan (the “2015 Severance Plan,” together the “Severance Plans”). Both Severance Plans provide for the payment of severance benefits to designated executive employees whose employment is terminated within a specified number of months following a “change of control,” either due to a termination without “cause” or a resignation for “good reason,” as each term is defined in the Severance Plans. The 2012 Severance Plan contains a three year sunset provision. The 2015 Severance Plan does not contain a sunset provision to provide the compensation committee with additional flexibility when determining when and if to make changes to the severance plan.
Neither Severance Plan provides for any change of control excise tax gross ups or “single trigger” change of control benefits. We believe that a pre-existing severance plan like ours allows our executive officers to focus on continuing normal business operations and the success of a potential business combination that may not be in their personal best interests, and to maintain a balanced perspective in making overall business decisions during a potentially uncertain period. In connection with the compensation committee’s review of our change of control severance benefits in January 2015, the compensation committee engaged Towers Watson to review our benefits relative to the market. Towers Watson compared our benefits with a list of top 25 retailers and against our peer group. Following its review, the compensation committee adjusted Mr. Kanter and Mr. Binder’s change of control severance benefits so as to be more consistent with market practices. We believe the size and terms of our severance benefits provide an appropriate balance between the costs and benefits to stockholders. We also believe these benefits are consistent with the median benefits offered by our peer group and with companies with whom we compete for talent, so as to allow us to recruit and retain key executive talent.
For purposes of both Severance Plans, the term “Change of Control” means that one or more of the following events has occurred:
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• | a person or group becomes the owner of greater than 50% of the combined voting power of our outstanding stock; |
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• | a corporate transaction, such as a merger or consolidation, results in the stockholders immediately prior to the transaction no longer owning more than 50% of the outstanding stock; |
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• | all or substantially all of the assets of the Company are sold or disposed of to an unrelated party; |
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• | a majority of the board is, for any reason, not made up of individuals who were either on the board as of March 4, 2009 (the date in the 2015 Severance Plan is January 19, 2015), or, if they became members after that date, were approved by the directors. |
For purposes of both Severance Plans, the term “Cause” for termination means that one of the following events that has a material negative impact on our business or reputation has occurred:
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• | indictment or conviction of any felony or any crime involving dishonesty or moral turpitude; |
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• | dishonesty which is not the result of an inadvertent or innocent mistake by employee with respect to us; |
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• | employee's continued willful violation of his or her obligations to us after there has been delivered to employee a written demand for performance from the board of directors which describes the basis for the board of directors' belief that employee has not substantially satisfied his or her obligations to us; |
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• | employee's violation or breach of any material written policy, agreement with us, or any statutory or fiduciary duty to us; or |
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• | damaging or misappropriating or attempting to damage or misappropriate any of our property, including any confidential or proprietary information. |
For purposes of both Severance Plans, the term “Resignation for Good Reason” means an eligible employee has resigned from all positions he or she then holds with us (or any successor thereto):
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• | because one of the following actions has been taken without his or her express written consent: |
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- | there is a material reduction (where material is considered greater than 10%) of the eligible employee's annual base salary; |
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- | there is a material change in the eligible employee's position or responsibilities (including the person or persons to whom the eligible employee has reporting responsibilities) (the 2015 Severance Plan clarifies that becoming the chief executive officer or chief financial officer of a privately held company does not by itself result in a material change in such employee’s position or responsibilities); |
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- | the eligible employee is required to relocate his or her principal place of employment to a location that would increase his or her one way commute distance by more than twenty-five (25) miles; or |
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- | we materially breach our obligations under the severance plan or any then-existing employment agreement with the eligible employee; and |
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• | the eligible employee provides written notice to the board of directors within the 30-day period immediately following such action; |
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• | such action is not remedied by us within thirty (30) days following our receipt of such written notice; and |
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• | the eligible employee's resignation is effective not later than sixty (60) days after the expiration of such thirty (30) day cure period. |
For purposes of both Severance Plans, the term “Qualifying Termination” means that an eligible employee suffers an involuntary termination without Cause or a Resignation for Good Reason, in either case that (i) constitutes a “separation from service” (as defined under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(h)), (ii) occurs other than as a result of death or disability, and (iii) occurs on or within twelve months following the effective date of the Change of Control (under the 2015 Severance Plan this was changed to twenty-four months for Mr. Kanter and Mr. Binder).
In the event of a change of control, if one of our named executive officers is terminated without cause or resigns for good reason, the chart below outlines the benefits provided to our named executive officers under our Severance Plans.
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| | | | | |
| Double-Trigger | Months of Protection Following Change of Control | Equity Vesting | Cash Severance | Cobra Benefits |
2012 Severance Plan | X | 12 months for all NEOs | 100% | 1x (annual base salary + annual target bonus) for all NEOs, except Mr. Sainsbury’s benefit is 0.5x (annual base salary + annual target bonus) | 12 months, except 6 months for Mr. Sainsbury |
2015 Severance Plan | X | • 24 months for CEO & CFO • 12 months for other NEOs | 100% | • For CEO and CFO: 2x (annual base salary + annual target bonus) • For other NEOs: 1x (annual base salary + annual target bonus) | • 18 months for CEO & CFO • 12 months for all other NEOs |
CEO Severance Benefits. In order to recruit Mr. Kanter, we agreed that if we terminate his employment without “Cause,” he would be entitled to payment equal to 100% of his then-current salary and payment of his COBRA premiums for him and his dependents for twelve months. In February 2015, the compensation committee, along with Towers Watson, reviewed Mr. Kanter’s severance benefits, including a review of the benefits provided to the chief executive officers at our peer companies and at the top 25 retailers. Following this review, the compensation committee changed his benefits such that if Mr. Kanter is terminated without “Cause” he is entitled to receive two times his then current salary and a pro-rata portion of the actual bonus amount paid out at the end of the year, provided he releases all claims against us. The compensation committee adjusted Mr. Kanter’s benefits to be more aligned with median market level.
For the purpose of Mr. Kanter’s severance benefits, “Cause” means any of the following: (i) Mr. Kanter's conviction of, or guilty plea or plea of nolo contendere to, a felony under the laws of the United States or of any state, or a crime involving moral turpitude or dishonesty (including, but not limited to, fraud, theft, or embezzlement); (ii) Mr. Kanter's participation in any fraud or act of dishonesty against Blue Nile; (iii) Mr. Kanter's willful misconduct, or his material breach of any agreement between him and Blue Nile (including, but not limited to, his offer letter or his Nondisclosure, Proprietary Information, Inventions, Nonsolicitation and Noncompetition Agreement); (iv) conduct that Blue Nile determines, in good faith, demonstrates unfitness for the job; (v) Mr. Kanter's engagement in any activity that constitutes a material conflict of interest with Blue Nile; or (vi) Mr. Kanter's significant failure to perform his duties, gross neglect of his duties, or refusal to comply with any lawful directive of the board of directors, which conduct, if capable of cure or remedy, is not cured or remedied within 30 days following his receipt of written notice from the board of directors.
Compensation of Named Executives in Relation to Each Other and to the Chief Executive Officer. The compensation committee considers the compensation of the other senior executives when making compensation decisions, but does not use a fixed ratio or formula when comparing compensation among executive officers. Our chief executive officer is compensated at a higher level than the other executives due to his higher level of responsibility and accountability. We also believe that the compensation paid to Mr. Binder, Ms. Yoakum, Mr. Sainsbury, and Ms. Neiswender, in relation to each other is reasonable and appropriate given each individual's level of experience and scope of responsibilities.
Equity Grant Timing. Our long-term equity incentive awards are made pursuant to our 2013 Equity Incentive Plan. Typically, when an employee is hired we issue him/her an initial equity grant. These initial grants are issued quarterly on pre-determined dates. This is a change from prior years, when the initial grants were awarded on the employee’s hire date. We also typically issue a merit-based equity award on an annual basis. These merit awards are typically issued in the first quarter of each fiscal year, with the grant date occurring during an open window, as determined under our internal trading policy. We believe this allows for pricing of equity grants that reflects the dissemination of material information and a fair representation of the market's collective view of our results and performance.
Executive Equity Ownership Guidelines. The compensation committee believes that equity ownership guidelines help align the interests of executives with that of our stockholders. Pursuant to our ownership guidelines, Mr. Kanter, Mr. Binder, and Ms. Yoakum must hold “equity value” of at least three times the executive's annual salary, and Mr. Sainsbury and Ms. Neiswender must hold “equity
value” of at least two times the executive's annual salary. The equity value may be comprised of: common stock owned individually; common stock owned joining with or separately by a spouse, domestic partner, and/or minor children, either directly or indirectly; or vested stock options. The value of the equity is determined based on the intrinsic value of the equity as reported on Nasdaq. Executives have a reasonable time to achieve compliance, which is typically considered three to five years.
Policy Against Speculative Transactions. No employee may engage in short sales, transactions in put or call options, margin loans with stock as collateral, certain hedging transactions or other inherently speculative transactions with respect to our stock at any time.
Tax Treatment of Compensation. Section 162(m) limits the amount that a public company may deduct from federal income taxes for remuneration paid to the chief executive officer and the three other most highly paid executive officers, other than the chief financial officer, to $1.0 million per executive per year, unless certain requirements are met. While our compensation committee is mindful of the benefit to us of the full deductibility of compensation, our compensation committee believes that it should not be constrained by the requirements of Section 162(m) where those requirements would impair flexibility in compensating our executive officers in a manner that can best promote our corporate objectives. As a result, we intend to continue to compensate our executive officers in a manner consistent with the best interests of the Company and our stockholders, which may not always include the awarding of compensation that qualifies for full deductibility under Section 162(m).
Accounting Considerations. The accounting impact of our executive compensation program is one of many factors that the compensation committee considers in determining the size and structure of that program.
Compensation Recovery Policy. As a public company subject to Section 304 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, if we are required to restate our financial results as the result of misconduct or due to our material noncompliance with any financial reporting requirements under the federal securities laws, our chief executive officer and chief financial officer may be legally required to reimburse us for any bonus or incentive-based or equity-based compensation they receive. In addition, we will comply with the requirements of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and anticipate that we will adopt a compensation recovery policy once final regulations on the subject have been adopted.
Risk Analysis of Our Compensation Plans. We believe that the design and objectives of our executive compensation program are appropriately balanced and do not create risks that are reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on us. To make this determination, we assessed the elements of our program with our compensation committee and with Milliman. We believe the design of our compensation policies and programs encourage our employees to remain focused on both our short and long-term goals. We believe the following design features mitigate inappropriate risk-taking by our executives:
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• | a balance of fixed versus variable compensation and cash-based versus equity-based compensation; |
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• | variable compensation is based on a variety of performance goals, including company and individual; |
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• | the compensation committee has the discretion to lower annual incentive award amounts; |
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• | stock ownership requirements; and |
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• | a prohibition on hedging our stock that applies to all employees. |
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT (1)
As part of fulfilling its responsibilities, the compensation committee reviewed and discussed the Compensation Discussion and Analysis (“CD&A”) for the fiscal year ended January 4, 2015 with management. Based on the compensation committee's review of the CD&A and its discussions with management, the compensation committee has recommended to the board of directors that the CD&A for the fiscal year ended January 4, 2015 be included in this proxy statement for filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission and incorporated into our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 4, 2015.
Date: April 24, 2015
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Respectfully submitted, |
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Steve Scheid, Chairman Chris Bruzzo Leslie Lane Mindy Meads Robert van Schoonenberg |
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(1) The material in this report is not “soliciting material,” is not deemed “filed” with the Securities and Exchange Commission, as amended, and is not to be incorporated by reference into any filing of Blue Nile, Inc. under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, whether made before or after the date hereof and irrespective of any general incorporation language in any such filing.
Compensation of Executive Officers
The following table sets forth compensation earned by our named executive officers for the 2014, 2013 and 2012 fiscal years.
Summary Compensation Table
Fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012
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| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Name and Principal Position | Year | Salary ($) | | Bonus ($)(1) | | Stock Awards ($)(2) | Option Awards ($)(2) | | Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation ($)(3) | All Other Compensation ($)(4) | Total Compensation ($)(5) |
Harvey Kanter | 2014 | 728,674 |
| | — | | 442,558 |
| 443,319 |
| | — |
| 5,920 |
| 1,620,471 |
|
Chairman, Chief Executive | 2013 | 670,077 |
| | — | | 391,375 |
| 390,767 |
| | 138,188 |
| 64,409 |
| 1,654,816 |
|
Officer and President | 2012 | 480,733 |
| (6) | 100,000 | (7) | — |
| 2,489,953 |
| (8) | 162,700 |
| 111,995 |
| 3,345,381 |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
David Binder | 2014 | 304,567 |
| | — | | 153,017 |
| 139,338 |
| | — |
| 5,920 |
| 602,842 |
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Executive Vice President, | 2013 | 273,558 |
| | — | | 219,170 |
| 218,925 |
| | 29,657 |
| 5,820 |
| 747,130 |
|
Chief Administrative Officer, | 2012 | 254,376 |
| | — | | — |
| — |
| | 42,000 |
| 5,720 |
| 302,096 |
|
and Chief Financial Officer | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Julie Yoakum | 2014 | 279,136 |
| | — | | 120,664 |
| 109,860 |
| | — |
| 5,920 |
| 515,580 |
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Chief Merchandising Officer | 2013 | 275,652 |
| | — | | 172,205 |
| 189,735 |
| | 28,830 |
| 5,820 |
| 672,242 |
|
| 2012 | 135,751 |
| (9) | 15,000 | (10) | — |
| 556,775 |
| (11) | 25,200 |
| 3,382 |
| 736,108 |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Jonathan Sainsbury | 2014 | 222,332 |
| | — | | 110,479 |
| 102,631 |
| | — |
| 5,920 |
| 441,362 |
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President of International | 2013 | 200,892 |
| | — | | 101,758 |
| 128,436 |
| | 15,969 |
| 32,444 |
| 479,499 |
|
| 2012 | 193,750 |
| | — | | — |
| — |
| | 24,600 |
| 4,609 |
| 222,959 |
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| | | | | | | | | | | |
Lauren Neiswender | 2014 | 244,565 |
| | — | | 106,101 |
| 96,586 |
| | — |
| 5,920 |
| 453,172 |
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General Counsel and | 2013 | 226,647 |
| | — | | 101,758 |
| 128,436 |
| | 14,163 |
| 5,677 |
| 476,681 |
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Corporate Secretary | 2012 | 217,500 |
| | — | | — |
| — |
| | 20,500 |
| 5,084 |
| 243,084 |
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(1) | Awards paid under our annual cash incentive bonus plan are included in the “Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation” column. See footnote 3 below. |
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(2) | The amounts included in the “Stock Awards” and “Option Awards” columns reflect the aggregate grant date fair value of awards during each fiscal year calculated in accordance with Topic 718 of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification. Generally, the grant date fair value is the amount we expect to expense in our financial statements over the award's vesting schedule. The amount does not reflect the actual economic value realized by the executive officer. No stock awards were granted in 2012. For additional information on the valuation assumptions, refer to Note 6 of our consolidated financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 4, 2015, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 2, 2015 (File No. 000-50763). See the Grants of Plan-Based Awards in Fiscal 2014 Table included herein for additional information on equity awards granted in 2014. |
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(3) | Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation includes awards earned under our annual cash incentive bonus plan. See the Grants of Plan-Based Awards in Fiscal 2014 Table included herein and the Compensation Discussion and Analysis above for additional information. |
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(4) | For 2014, amounts represent for each NEO a 401(k) matching contribution of $5,200 and a transportation allowance of $720, both of which are available on the same terms to all of our salaried employees. For 2013 and 2012, amounts for each NEO represents 401(k) matching contribution and a transportation allowance, and in addition, include for Mr. Kanter, relocation assistance in 2013 and 2012, respectively, of $58,589 and $106,455, and for Mr. Sainsbury in 2013, tuition assistance of $27,200. |
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(5) | The dollar value in this column for each named executive officer represents the sum of all compensation reflected in the preceding columns. |
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(6) | Pursuant to the terms of Mr. Kanter's offer letter dated March 2, 2012, his 2012 base salary was $650,000 on an annualized basis. |
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(7) | Pursuant to the terms of Mr. Kanter's offer letter dated March 2, 2012, he received a signing bonus of $100,000. |
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(8) | Pursuant to the terms of Mr. Kanter's offer letter dated March 2, 2012, he received an option grant in March 2012 with a grant date fair value of $2,489,953. |
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(9) | Pursuant to the terms of Ms. Yoakum's offer letter dated June 7, 2012, her 2012 base salary was $270,000 on an annualized basis. |
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(10) | Pursuant to the terms of Ms. Yoakum's offer letter dated June 7, 2012, she received a signing bonus of $15,000. |
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(11) | Pursuant to the terms of Ms. Yoakum's offer letter dated June 7, 2012, she received an option grant in June 2012 with a grant date fair value of $556,775. |
The following table provides additional information about our fiscal year 2014 plan-based compensation to the named executive officers.
Grants of Plan-Based Awards in Fiscal 2014
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| | | | | | | | | |
| | Estimated Possible Payouts Under Non-Equity Incentive Plan Awards (1) | All Other Option Awards: Number of Securities Underlying Options (#) (5) | Exercise or Base Price of Option Awards ($/Sh) | Grant Date Fair Value of Stock and Option Awards ($) (7) |
Name | Award | Grant Date (2) | | Target ($) (3) | Maximum ($) (4) |
Harvey Kanter | A. Annual Incentive | — | | 510,072 | 1,020,144 | — | — | — |
| B. Stock Options | 2/15/2014 | | — | — | 33,130 | 33.25 | 443,319 |
| C. Restricted Stock Units | 2/15/2014 | | — | — | 13,310 | — | 442,558 |
| | | | | | | | |
David Binder | A. Annual Incentive | — | | 152,284 | 304,568 | — | — | — |
| B. Stock Options | 2/15/2014 | | — | — | 10,413 | 33.25 | 139,338 |
| C. Restricted Stock Units | 2/15/2014 | | — | — | 4,602 | — | 153,017 |
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Julie Yoakum | A. Annual Incentive | — | | 111,654 | 223,308 | — | — | — |
| B. Stock Options | 2/15/2014 | | — | — | 8,210 | 33.25 | 109,860 |
| C. Restricted Stock Units | 2/15/2014 | | — | — | 3,629 | — | 120,664 |
| | | | | | | | |
Jonathan Sainsbury | A. Annual Incentive | — |
| | 88,933 | 177,866 | — | — | — |
| B. Stock Options | 2/15/2014 | | — | — | 5,989 | 33.25 | 80,140 |
| | 5/15/2014 | (6) | | | 1,847 | 30.20 | 22,491 |
| C. Restricted Stock Units | 2/15/2014 | | — | — | 2,646 | — | 87,980 |
| | 5/15/2014 | (6) | | | 745 | — | 22,499 |
| | | | | | | | |
Lauren Neiswender | A. Annual Incentive | — | | 73,370 | 146,740 | — | — | — |
| B. Stock Options | 2/15/2014 | | — | — | 7,218 | 33.25 | 96,586 |
| C. Restricted Stock Units | 2/15/2014 | | — | — | 3,191 | — | 106,101 |
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(1) | In determining the 2014 bonus awards for each of the named executive officers, the compensation committee reviewed our actual 2014 performance against our pre-established financial and personal objectives. See the “Compensation Discussion & Analysis” section for additional information and analysis. There is no threshold or minimum incentive bonus payment. |
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(2) | Stock options granted vest as to 1/4 of the shares of common stock underlying the options on the first anniversary of the grant date and as to 1/16 of the underlying shares quarterly thereafter. Equity units granted to our current executive officers are subject to acceleration under our severance plan and in certain other circumstances as provided in the 2013 Equity Incentive Plan. |
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(3) | This column sets forth the target bonus for each NEO, which is established by the compensation committee as a percent of the actual base salary paid to the NEO during the fiscal year 2014. |
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(4) | Each named executive officer was eligible to receive up to a maximum of 200 percent of his or her target bonus opportunity, depending upon the achievement of certain financial and individual performance objectives. |
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(5) | Option awards and restricted stock units granted to the named executive officers in fiscal year 2014 were issued under the 2013 Equity Incentive Plan. |
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(6) | Mr. Sainsbury was granted an annual equity grant on February 15, 2014, along with the other executives, and was granted additional equity on May 15, 2014 in connection with his transition to the role of president of international. |
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(7) | The amounts represent the aggregate grant date fair value of the option awards granted during the fiscal year calculated in accordance with Topic 718 of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification. For a discussion of valuation assumptions, see Note 6 to our consolidated financial statements included in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 4, 2015, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 2, 2015 (File No. 000-50763). |
Narrative Disclosure to Summary Compensation Table and Grants of Plan-Based Awards Table
Offer Letters. Each of our named executive officers has signed offer letters with us. Descriptions of the offer letters with our named executive officers are included under the caption Employment, Severance and Change of Control Agreements in the CD&A section above.
Non-Equity Incentive Plan Awards. These amounts reflect the potential target and maximum annual cash incentive awards payable to our named executive officers under our 2013 annual cash incentive bonus plan. For more information regarding this plan, please see the Annual Cash Incentive Bonus section in our CD&A above.
Equity Awards. On May 21, 2013, the date of the Company's 2013 annual meeting of stockholders, our stockholders approved the 2013 Equity Incentive Plan, effective as of such date. The 2013 Equity Incentive Plan is intended to be the successor to the 2004 Equity Incentive Plan and the Directors' Plan. Once the 2013 Equity Incentive Plan became effective, the 2004 Equity Incentive Plan was suspended and any equity compensation that would have been granted under the 2004 Equity Incentive Plan is now granted under the 2013 Equity Incentive Plan. Prior to May 21, 2013, stock options and restricted stock units were granted to our executive officers under the 2004 Equity Incentive Plan. We have never granted stock appreciation rights.
Other Compensatory Arrangements. For a description of the other elements of our executive compensation program, see the “Compensation, Discussion and Analysis” section above.
The following table provides information regarding unexercised stock options and unvested stock awards held by each of the named executive officers as of January 4, 2015.
Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year End 2014
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| Option Awards | | Stock Awards |
| Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options (#) | | Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options (#) (1) | Option Exercise Price ($) (2) | Option Expiration Date (1) | | Number of Shares or Units of Stock That Have Not Vested (#) (3) | Market Value of Shares or Units of Stock That Have Not Vested ($) (4) |
Name | Exercisable | | Unexercisable | |
Harvey Kanter | 106,218 |
| | 48,282 |
| 33.30 | 3/29/2022 | | | |
| 11,714 |
| | 15,060 |
| 31.31 | 2/14/2023 | | | |
| | | | | | | 20,342 | 712,784 |
| | | | | | | | |
David Binder | 31,250 |
| | 6,250 |
| 30.44 | 8/21/2021 | | | |
| 3,083 |
| | 917 |
| 33.45 | 11/15/2021 | | | |
| 6,562 |
| | 8,438 |
| 31.31 | 2/14/2023 | | | |
| — |
| | 10,413 |
| 33.25 | 2/14/2024 | | | |
| | | | | | | 8,540 | 299,242 |
| | | | | | | | |
Julie Yoakum | 25,361 |
| | 15,217 |
| 28.70 | 6/24/2022 | | | |
| 5,687 |
| | 7,313 |
| 31.31 | 2/14/2023 | | | |
| — |
|
| 8,210 |
| 33.25 | 2/14/2024 | | | |
| | | | | | | 6,723 | 235,574 |
| | | | | | | | |
Jonathan Sainsbury | 625 |
| | — |
| 30.31 | 8/3/2016 | | | |
| 625 |
| | — |
| 37.07 | 8/3/2016 | | | |
| 625 |
| | — |
| 40.00 | 8/3/2016 | | | |
| 625 |
| | — |
| 55.34 | 8/3/2016 | | | |
| 3,000 |
| | — |
| 83.81 | 8/28/2017 | | | |
| 10,000 |
| | — |
| 41.13 | 8/7/2018 | | | |
| 14,000 |
| | — |
| 21.22 | 2/22/2019 | | | |
| 10,000 |
| | — |
| 49.11 | 2/16/2020 | | | |
| 8,625 |
| | 375 |
| 56.62 | 2/14/2021 | | | |
| 11,562 |
| | 3,438 |
| 33.45 | 11/15/2021 | | | |
| 3,850 |
| | 4,950 |
| 31.31 | 2/14/2023 | | | |
| — |
| | 5,989 |
| 33.25 | 2/14/2024 | | | |
| — |
| | 1,847 |
| 30.20 | 5/14/2024 | | | |
| | | | | | | 5,219 | 182,874 |
| | | | | | | | |
Lauren Neiswender | 4,334 |
| | — |
| 32.43 | 8/7/2015 | | | |
| 10,938 |
| | — |
| 31.26 | 5/31/2016 | | | |
| 7,000 |
| | — |
| 83.81 | 8/28/2017 | | | |
| 13,000 |
| | — |
| 41.13 | 8/7/2018 | | | |
| 20,000 |
| | — |
| 21.22 | 2/22/2019 | | | |
| 9,000 |
| | — |
| 49.11 | 2/16/2020 | | | |
| 7,187 |
| | 313 |
| 56.62 | 2/14/2021 | | | |
| 12,333 |
| | 3,667 |
| 33.45 | 11/15/2021 | | | |
| 3,850 |
| | 4,950 |
| 31.31 | 2/14/2023 | | | |
| — |
| | 7,218 |
| 33.25 | 2/14/2024 | | | |
| | | | | | | 5,019 | 175,866 |
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(1) | Each of the options expiring in 2020, 2021, and 2022 vest as to 1/4 of the shares of common stock underlying the options on the first anniversary of the grant date and as to 1/48 of the underlying shares monthly thereafter. Each of the options expiring in 2023 and 2024 vest 1/4 of the shares of common stock underlying the options on the first anniversary of the grant date and as to 1/16 of the underlying shares quarterly thereafter. Each of the options expiring in 2015 through 2020 is fully vested as of January 4, 2015. |
The expiration date and full vest date of each of the options still subject to vesting is listed in the table below by expiration date:
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Expiration Date | Vesting Date |
08/07/2015 | 08/26/2009 |
05/31/2016 | 06/01/2010 |
08/03/2016 | 08/04/2010 |
08/28/2017 | 08/29/2011 |
08/07/2018 | 08/08/2012 |
02/22/2019 | 02/23/2013 |
02/16/2020 | 02/17/2014 |
02/14/2021 | 02/15/2015 |
08/21/2021 | 08/22/2015 |
11/15/2021 | 11/16/2015 |
03/29/2022 | 03/30/2016 |
06/24/2022 | 06/25/2016 |
02/14/2023 | 02/15/2017 |
02/14/2024 | 02/15/2018 |
05/14/2024 | 05/15/2018 |
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(2) | Represents the closing price of a share of our common stock on the NASDAQ Global Securities market on the grant date of the option. |
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(3) | One-fourth of the restricted stock units vest on the first anniversary of the grant date and 1/16 of the units vest quarterly thereafter. |
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(4) | Value is calculated by multiplying the number of restricted stock units that have not vested by the closing price of one share of our common stock ($35.04) on January 2, 2015 (the last trading day prior to our January 4, 2015 fiscal year end). |
The following table shows the number of shares acquired pursuant to the exercise of options by each named executive officer during fiscal year 2014 and the aggregate dollar amount realized by the named executive officer upon exercise of the option. The table also shows the number of restricted stock units that vested during 2014.
Option Exercises and Stock Awards Vested in Fiscal 2014
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| Option Awards | Stock Awards |
Name | Number of Shares Acquired on Exercise (#) | Value Realized on Exercise ($) | Number of Shares Acquired on Vesting (#) | Value Realized on Vesting ($) |
Harvey Kanter | — | — | 5,468 | 176,805 |
David Binder | — | — | 3,062 | 99,003 |
Julie Yoakum | — | — | 2,406 | 77,798 |
Jonathan Sainsbury | 1,000 | 3,686 | 1,422 | 45,980 |
Lauren Neiswender | — | — | 1,422 | 45,980 |
Pension Benefits
We do not have any qualified or non-qualified defined benefit plans.
Nonqualified Deferred Compensation
We do not have any non-qualified defined contribution plans or other non-qualified deferred compensation plans.
Change of Control Severance Plan
Our Severance Plans provide for the payment of severance benefits to designated executive employees whose employment is terminated within a specified period (not to exceeding twenty-four months) following a “change of control,” either due to a termination without “cause” or a resignation for “good reason,” as each term is defined in the Severance Plans. The 2015 Severance Plan supersedes and replaces any existing severance plans, policies or practices that would otherwise apply upon these kinds of Qualifying Terminations, as defined in the 2015 Severance Plan. All of our named executive officers were eligible to participate in the 2012 Severance Plan during our fiscal 2014.
The Severance Plans provide that upon a Qualifying Termination following a Change of Control, and provided the employee signs our standard form of release, he/she will be entitled to receive severance benefits more fully described above in our “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” section.
Potential Payments on Termination or Change of Control
The following table shows cash severance and bonus payments, the value of accelerated vesting of equity grants, the value of continued health benefits and the total value that would have been provided to the named executive officers in the event that: (a) in the case of all of the named executive officers, a Change of Control had occurred on January 4, 2015 and on the further assumption that the employment of the named executive officer was terminated without Cause or that the named executive officer submitted his or her resignation for Good Reason at that time; and (b) in the case of Mr. Kanter, he is terminated prior to a Change in Control, on the assumption that the employment of such named executive officer was terminated without Cause on January 4, 2015. The values below are based on the terms of our 2012 Severance Plan, as that was the change of control severance plan in effect on January 4, 2015.
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| Involuntary Termination without Cause or Voluntary Termination for Good Reason after a Change in Control | Involuntary Termination without Cause other than after a Change in Control(5) |
Name and Principal Position | Cash Severance ($)(1) | Bonus ($)(1) | Early Vesting of Stock Awards ($)(2) | Early Vesting of Option Awards ($)(3) | Welfare Benefits ($)(4) | Total ($) | Cash Severance ($)(1) | Bonus ($)(1) | Early Vesting of Option Awards ($)(2) | Welfare Benefits ($)(4) | Total ($) |
Harvey Kanter | 740,000 | 518,000 | 712,784 | 199,487 | 12,137 | 2,182,408 | 740,000 | — | — | 12,137 | 752,137 |
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David Binder | 310,000 | 155,000 | 299,242 | 80,321 | 8,447 | 853,010 | — | — | — | — | — |
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Julie Yoakum | 282,272 | 112,909 | 235,574 | 138,449 | 12,137 | 781,341 | — | — | — | — | — |
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Jonathan Sainsbury | 115,000 | 46,000 | 182,874 | 43,590 | 4,224 | 391,688 | — | — | — | — | — |
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Lauren Neiswender | 248,127 | 74,438 | 175,866 | 37,214 | — | 535,645 | — | — | — | — | — |
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(1) | Cash severance and bonus payments were determined by multiplying the executive's base salary and target annual incentive bonus by the multiple as defined in each of their severance agreements. For all named executive officers other than Mr. Sainsbury, that multiple is one. Mr. Sainsbury's multiple is 0.5. |
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(2) | Value is calculated by multiplying the number of restricted stock units that have not vested by the closing price of our stock ($35.04) on January 2, 2015 (the last trading day prior to our January 4, 2015 fiscal year end). 1/4 of the restricted stock units vest on the first anniversary of the grant date and 1/16 vest quarterly thereafter. |
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(3) | The value of early vesting of option awards is based on the difference between the aggregate exercise price of all accelerated options and the aggregate market value of the underlying shares as of January 4, 2015, calculated using the closing market price of our stock ($35.04) on January 2, 2015 (the last trading day prior to our fiscal year end). Options that were out-of-the-money have been excluded from the calculation. |
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(4) | The amounts shown in this column represent health and dental coverage determined on the basis of our COBRA rates for post-employment continuation coverage for a period of twelve months. Such rates were determined on the basis of the coverage elections made by the named executive officer. |
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(5) | None of the other named executive officers is eligible to receive severance benefits outside of a Change in Control. |
COMPENSATION OF NON-EMPLOYEE DIRECTORS
Non-Employee Director Compensation
Our compensation philosophy for non-employee directors is to provide a competitive level and mix of compensation that enhances our ability to attract and retain highly qualified directors and to reinforce the alignment of our directors' interests with those of our stockholders. Following a review of the compensation paid to non-employee directors at our peer companies and considering the role and responsibilities of the directors, in May 2014 the compensation committee decided to make adjustments to the compensation paid to our non-employee directors. Those changes are highlighted below.
Cash Compensation. The table below sets forth the cash compensation for which our non-employee directors are eligible:
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Annual Cash Compensation | Pre- May 2014 Cash ($) | Post- May 2014 Cash ($) |
Annual Retainer(1) | 40,000 | 40,000 |
Fee for Committee Service(2) | 3,000 | 3,000 |
Audit Committee Chair Fee (3) | 10,000 | 12,000 |
Compensation Committee Chair Fee (3) | 5,000 | 6,000 |
Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee Chair Fee (3) | 5,000 | 6,000 |
Lead Independent Director Fee (3) | 10,000 | 15,000 |
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(1) | The annual retainer is paid in quarterly installments. At the discretion of the board of directors, directors may be permitted to forego all or a portion of their annual retainer for service on the board of directors in exchange for a grant or grants of common stock under the 2013 Equity Incentive Plan having a fair market value equal to the amount of foregone cash compensation. The number of shares granted is determined by dividing the amount of the foregone quarterly installment by the closing price of our common stock on the second business day following our quarterly public announcement of our financial earnings for the quarter in which the installment is to be paid. Our policy for the timing of such determination is to provide for a price that reflects the dissemination of material information and a fair representation of the market's collective view of our financial results and performance. |
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(2) | The annual fee for serving on any committee is paid in quarterly installments. Each director that serves on a committee receives $750 quarterly ($3,000 annually) regardless of the number of committees he/she serves on. |
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(3) | Paid in quarterly installments. |
Equity Compensation. The chart below summarizes the equity compensation paid to non-employee directors and the changes the compensation committee made to the non-employee director compensation in 2014:
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Equity Compensation(1) | Pre-2014 May Change | Post-May 2014 Change |
Initial Equity Grant | RSUs valued at $100,000(2) | RSUs valued at $100,000(2) |
Annual Equity Grant | Equity grant valued at $63,000 in the form of stock options or RSUs(3) | Equity grant valued at $85,000 in the form of stock options or RSUs(3) |
Option Grant Upon Full Vesting of Initial or Refresh Option Grant | Refresh grant of 9,000 options only to directors appointed prior to July 31, 2012. Directors appointed after July 31, 2012, will not receive a refresh grant.(4) | Refresh grant of 9,000 options only to directors appointed prior to July 31, 2012. Directors appointed after July 31, 2012, will not receive a refresh grant.(4) |
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(1) | Equity granted to non-employee directors is subject to acceleration upon a change of control as described below. |
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(2) | Each new director receives an initial restricted stock unit grant on the date of his or her election or appointment. The initial grant vests every three (3) months from the date of grant for four years. These option grants cease vesting as of the date a non-employee director no longer serves on the board of directors. |
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(3) | Each non-employee director receives an annual equity grant on the date following each annual meeting of stockholders. The annual grant vests every three (3) months from the date of the grant for one year. Each non-employee director must elect, prior to the start of the fiscal year in which the annual meeting is to take place, or such later date as may be determined by the compensation committee in its sole discretion, to receive the annual equity grant in the form of either (i) 100% as restricted stock units; or (ii) 100% as options. In the absence of a timely election, the entire annual equity grant will be granted in the form of |
options. Individuals who become a non-employee director on or after the start of the fiscal year must make an election on or before the date he or she is appointed or elected as a non-employee director, or such later date as may be determined by the compensation committee in its sole discretion. These equity grants cease vesting as of the date a non-employee director no longer serves on the board of directors.
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(4) | Each non-employee director elected to the board of directors prior to July 31, 2012 receives a refresher grant upon full vesting of the initial stock option grant. These refresher grants vest monthly in equal amounts from the date of the grant for four years. These options cease vesting as of the date a non-employee director no longer serves on the board of directors. |
All options will be granted with an exercise price equal to the fair market value of the common stock on the date of grant, will have a ten year term and a general post-termination exercise period of three months, subject to earlier termination or extension as provided in the applicable equity incentive plan and the applicable award agreement.
The vesting of the equity awards granted to non-employee directors under this director compensation program will become fully vested as of the earlier to occur of: (x) the date of the non-employee director’s termination of service due to death or disability and (y) immediately prior to a change in control (subject to continued service as of such time). The unvested portions of any RSUs or options are forfeited upon any other termination.
2014 Compensation for Non-Employee Directors. The following table summarizes the compensation paid to our non-employee directors during the fiscal year ended January 4, 2015.
2014 Director Compensation Table
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Name | | Fees Earned or Paid in Cash ($) (1) | | Stock Awards ($)(3) | Option Awards ($) (3) | Total ($) |
Chris Bruzzo | (4) | 43,000 |
| (2) | — |
| 84,991 |
| 127,991 |
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Leslie Lane | (5) | 43,000 |
| | 84,981 |
| — |
| 127,981 |
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Mindy Meads | (6) | 43,000 |
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| 84,981 |
| — |
| 127,981 |
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Michael Potter | (7) | 61,500 |
| | 84,981 |
| — |
| 146,481 |
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Steve Scheid | (8) | 48,500 |
| | 84,981 |
| — |
| 133,481 |
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Mary Alice Taylor | (9) | 48,500 |
| | 84,981 |
| — |
| 133,481 |
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Scott Howe | (10) | 42,250 |
| (2) | 184,953 |
| — |
| 227,203 |
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Robert van Schoonenberg | (11) | — |
| | — |
| — |
| — |
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(1) | Includes the annual cash retainer, fees for serving on a committee of the board of directors, fees for serving as chairman of the board, fees as applicable for chairing a committee and fees for serving as the lead independent director. Directors may elect to receive their annual retainer in cash or stock. |
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(2) | Messrs. Bruzzo and Howe each elected to receive a portion of their annual retainer (paid quarterly) in shares of common stock plus cash in lieu of any fractional share. The number of shares granted is determined by dividing the amount of the foregone quarterly installment by the closing price of our common stock on the second business day following our quarterly public announcement of our financial earnings for the quarter in which the installment is to be paid. Mr. Bruzzo received stock valued at $39,965 and cash in the amount of $3,035, which includes $3,000 for service on committees. Mr. Howe received stock valued at $39,965 and cash in the amount of $3,035, which includes $3,000 for service on committees. |
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(3) | The amounts included in the “Stock Awards” and “Option Awards” columns represent the aggregate grant date fair value of awards granted during the fiscal year calculated in accordance with Topic 718 of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification. Generally, the grant date fair value is the amount the Company expects to expense in its financial statements over the award's vesting schedule. The amount does not reflect the actual economic value realized by the director. For additional information on the valuation assumptions, refer to Note 6 of our consolidated financial statements included in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 4, 2015, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 2, 2015 (File No. 000-50763). |
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(4) | Mr. Bruzzo was granted an option to purchase 6,792 shares of common stock, with a grant date fair value, computed in accordance with Topic 718 of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification, of $84,991. As of January 4, 2015, Mr. Bruzzo held 3,312 shares of common stock and options to purchase 26,545 shares of common stock. |
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(5) | Mr. Lane received his annual equity grant in the form of a stock award for 2,729 shares of common stock, with a grant date fair value, computed in accordance with Topic 718 of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification, of $84,981. As of January 4, |
2015, Mr. Lane held 8,400 shares of common stock, options to purchase 26,500 shares of common stock and unvested stock awards of 1,365 shares of common stock.
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(6) | Ms. Meads received her annual equity grant in the form of an option for 2,729 shares of common stock, with a grant date fair value, computed in accordance with Topic 718 of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification, of $84,981. As of January 4, 2015, Ms. Meads held 2,553 shares of common stock, options to purchase 4,051 shares of common stock and unvested stock awards of 3,349 shares of common stock. |
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(7) | Mr. Potter received his annual equity grant in the form of a stock award for 2,729 shares of common stock, with a grant date fair value, computed in accordance with Topic 718 of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification, of $84,981. As of January 4, 2015, Mr. Potter held 8,136 shares of common stock, options to purchase 28,875 shares of common stock and unvested stock awards of 1,365 shares of common stock. |
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(8) | Mr. Scheid received his annual equity grant in the form of a stock award for 2,729 shares, with a grant date fair value, computed in accordance with Topic 718 of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification, of $84,981. As of January 4, 2015, Mr. Scheid held 9,312 shares of common stock, options to purchase 28,875 shares of common stock and unvested stock awards of 1,365 shares of common stock. |
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(9) | Ms. Taylor received her annual equity grant in the form of a stock award for 2,729 shares of common stock, with a grant date fair value, computed in accordance with Topic 718 of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification, of $84,981. As of January 4, 2015, Ms. Taylor held 14,085 shares of common stock, options to purchase 33,452 shares of common stock and unvested stock awards of 1,365 shares of common stock. |
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(10) | Mr. Howe was granted an initial stock award for 2,123 shares of common stock in 2014 with a grant date fair value, computed in accordance with Topic 718 of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification, of $99,972. Mr. Howe received his annual equity grant in the form of an option for 2,729 shares of common stock, with a grant date fair value, computed in accordance with Topic 718 of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification, of $84,981. As of January 4, 2015, Mr. Howe held 3,174 shares of common stock and unvested stock awards of 2,958 shares of common stock. |
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(11) | Mr. van Schoonenberg was appointed to the board of directors in February 2015 and did not receive any compensation for serving on the board of directors in fiscal year 2014. |
Non-employee Director Equity Ownership Guidelines. The compensation committee believes that equity ownership guidelines help align the interests of our non-employee directors with that of our stockholders. In August 2009, the compensation committee approved equity ownership guidelines for our directors. Pursuant to these guidelines, within three years of the joining the board of directors, our non-employee directors are expected to accumulate an ownership interest in our securities equal to three times the value of the annual retainer paid to non-employee directors for service on the board of directors. The value of the securities may be comprised of: common stock owned individually; common stock owned joining with, or separately by a spouse, domestic partner, and/or minor children, either directly or indirectly; vested restricted stock units; or vested stock options. The value of the securities is determined based on the intrinsic value of the securities using a rolling three month average stock price.
TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PERSONS
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS POLICY AND PROCEDURES
In February 2007, our audit committee adopted a written Related Person Transactions Policy that sets forth our policies and procedures regarding the identification, review, consideration and approval or ratification of “related person transactions.” For purposes of this policy only, a “related person transaction” is a transaction, arrangement or relationship (or any series of similar transactions, arrangements or relationships) in which we and any “related person” are, were or will be participants in which the amount involved exceeds $120,000. Transactions involving compensation for services provided to us as an employee or director shall not be considered related person transactions under the policy. A related person is any executive officer, director, or more than 5% stockholder of the Company, including any of their immediate family members, and any entity owned or controlled by such persons.
Under our Related Person Transactions Policy, where a transaction has been identified as a related person transaction, our management presents such related person transaction to the audit committee for review, consideration and approval or ratification. The presentation includes, to the extent reasonably available, (a) a description of (i) the parties thereto; (ii) the interests, direct or indirect, of any related person in the transaction in sufficient detail so as to enable the audit committee to assess such interests; and (iii) the material facts of the proposed related person transaction, including the proposed aggregate value of such transaction, or, in the case of indebtedness, that amount of principal that would be involved; (b) an assessment of (i) the benefits to us of the proposed related person transaction; and (ii) whether the proposed related person transaction is on terms that are comparable to the terms available to or from, as the case may be, an unrelated third party or to employees generally; and (c) management's recommendation with respect to the proposed related person transaction. In the event the audit committee is asked to consider whether to ratify an ongoing related person transaction, in addition to the information identified above, the presentation includes a description of the extent of work performed and remaining to be performed in connection with the transaction and an assessment of the potential risks and costs of termination of the transaction.
The audit committee, in approving or rejecting the proposed related person transaction, considers all the relevant facts and circumstances deemed relevant by and available to the audit committee, including, but not limited to (a) the risks, costs and benefits to us, (b) the impact on a director's independence in the event the related person is a director, immediate family member of a director or an entity with which a director is affiliated, (c) the terms of the transaction, (d) the availability of other sources for comparable services or products and (e) the terms available to or from, as the case may be, unrelated third parties or to or from employees generally. The audit committee approves only those related party transactions that, in light of known circumstances, are in, or are not inconsistent with, our best interests and those of our stockholders, as the audit committee determines in the good faith exercise of its discretion.
CERTAIN RELATED-PERSON TRANSACTIONS
We have entered into indemnity agreements with certain officers and directors which provide, among other things, that we will indemnify such officer or director, under the circumstances and to the extent provided for therein, for expenses, damages, judgments, fines and settlements he or she may be required to pay in actions or proceedings to which he or she is, or may be, made a party by reason of his or her position as our director, officer or other agent, and otherwise to the fullest extent permitted under Delaware law and our bylaws.
ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
A copy of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 4, 2015, to the Securities and Exchange Commission, is available on our website at http://investor.bluenile.com. A copy will be furnished without charge to stockholders of record upon request by mail to Investor Relations at Blue Nile, 411 First Avenue South, Suite 700, Seattle Washington 98104.
HOUSEHOLDING OF PROXY MATERIALS
The Securities and Exchange Commission has adopted rules that permit companies and intermediaries (e.g., brokers) to satisfy the delivery requirements for proxy statements and annual reports with respect to two or more stockholders sharing the same address by delivering a single proxy statement addressed to those stockholders. This process, which is commonly referred to as “householding,” potentially means extra convenience for stockholders and cost savings for companies.
This year, a number of brokers with account holders who are our stockholders will be “householding” our proxy materials. A single proxy statement and annual report will be delivered to multiple stockholders sharing an address unless contrary instructions have been received from the affected stockholders. Once you have received notice from your broker that they will be “householding” communications to your address, “householding” will continue until you are notified otherwise or until you revoke your consent. If, at any time, you no longer wish to participate in “householding” and would prefer to receive a separate proxy statement and annual report, please notify your broker, direct your written request to Blue Nile, Inc., Corporate Secretary, at 411 First Avenue South, Suite 700, Seattle, Washington 98104 or contact Lauren Neiswender, our Corporate Secretary, at (206) 336-6700. Stockholders who share an address but currently receive multiple copies of the proxy statement at their address and would like to request “householding” of their communications should contact their broker.
OTHER MATTERS
The board of directors knows of no other matters that will be presented for consideration at the Annual Meeting. If any other matters are properly brought before the Annual Meeting, it is the intention of the persons named in the accompanying proxy to vote on such matters in accordance with their best judgment.
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By Order of the Board of Directors, |
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Lauren Neiswender |
General Counsel and Corporate Secretary |
Seattle, Washington
April 24, 2015