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Table of Contents
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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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Definitive Proxy Statement
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Definitive Additional Materials
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Soliciting Material under
§240.14a-12
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No fee required.
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Fee paid previously with preliminary materials.
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Fee computed on table in exhibit required by Item 25(b) per Exchange Act Rules 14(a)-6(i)(1) and 0-11.
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Table of Contents
Table of Contents
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Welcome to the Vera Bradley, Inc.
Annual Meeting of Shareholders
Dear Shareholder of Vera Bradley, Inc.:
You are cordially invited to attend the 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders of Vera Bradley, Inc., to be held at 8:00 a.m., Central Time, on May 30, 2024 at the Seneca Lounge, The Ritz-Carlton, Water Tower Place, 160 East Pearson Street, Chicago, IL 60611.
The attached Notice of 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and Proxy Statement provide information concerning the matters to be considered and voted on at the Annual Meeting. Please take the time to carefully read each of the proposals.
Regardless of the number of shares you hold or whether you plan to attend the meeting in person, your vote is important. Accordingly, please vote your shares as soon as possible by following the instructions you received on your proxy card. Voting your shares prior to the Annual Meeting will not prevent you from voting your shares in person if you subsequently choose to attend the meeting.
To make it easier for you to vote, Internet and telephone voting are available. The instructions for voting via the Internet and telephone can be found on your proxy card.
Thank you for your continued support of Vera Bradley, Inc.
Sincerely,
Jacqueline M. Ardrey President and Chief Executive Officer
April 26, 2024 |
Table of Contents
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NOTICE OF 2024 ANNUAL MEETING
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Date: May 30, 2024
Time: 8:00 a.m., Central Time
Place: Seneca Lounge, The Ritz-Carlton Water Tower Place 160 East Pearson Street, Chicago, IL 60611.
Record Date: April 3, 2024. You are entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting only if you were a shareholder at the close of business on the record date.
Items of Business: • To elect nine Directors for a one-year term to expire at the 2025 Annual Meeting of Shareholders • To ratify the appointment of Deloitte Touche LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for fiscal 2025 • To approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation of the Company’s named executive officers • To transact any other business as may properly come before the meeting or at any adjournments or postponements thereof. |
Proxy Voting: Shareholders of record may vote in person at the Annual Meeting in Chicago, but may also appoint proxies to vote their shares in one of the following ways
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Via Internet
Cast your vote at
www.proxyvote.com 24/7 until 11:59 p.m., Eastern Time on May 29, 2024 |
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Via Phone
Cast your vote by phone at
1-800-690-6903
24/7 until
11:59 p.m., Eastern Time on May 29, 2024 |
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Via Mail
Mark, sign, and date your
proxy card and return it in the postage-paid envelope provided
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Shareholders whose shares are held by a bank, broker, or other nominee (in “street name”) may instruct such record holders how to vote their shares. Any proxy may be revoked at any time prior to its exercise at the meeting by following the procedures described in the proxy solicitation materials. If you hold your shares in “street name” and wish to vote your shares in person at the Annual Meeting, you must obtain a legal proxy from your bank, broker, or other holder of record, giving you the right to vote the shares.
By Order of the Board of Directors,
Mark C. Dely Corporate Secretary
April 26, 2024
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| Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be Held on May 30, 2024: This 2024 Proxy Statement and Notice of Annual Meeting of Shareholders and our Fiscal 2024 Annual Report are available in the “Investor Relations” section of our website at www.verabradley.com. | ||||||
Table of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents
PROXY SUMMARY
This summary highlights information contained elsewhere in this Proxy Statement. This summary does not contain all of the information you should consider, and we encourage you to read the entire Proxy Statement before voting.
FISCAL 2024 BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS
| Strategic Progress |
We ended fiscal 2024 with consolidated revenues of $470.8 million. Although fiscal 2024 had its challenges, we took actions that laid the groundwork to position the Company for the future.
On a corporate basis:
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We launched our long-term strategic plan, Project Restoration, and completed the first year of our turnaround. We thoughtfully outlined our plans in each of the four pillars of the strategic plan – Consumer, Brand, Product, and Channel – and began implementation of key initiatives. |
| • |
In early fiscal 2024, we acquired the remaining 25% interest in Pura Vida from founders Griffin Thall and Paul Goodman for $10 million. |
| • |
As a Company, we continued to carefully manage both gross margin and expenses and instilled a culture of discipline around gross margin and expense control. We continued to strengthen and streamline our organizational structure and right-size our leadership team and cost structure for the size of our business, to address the continuing challenging macroeconomic environment, and best position us to achieve our long-term strategic plans. |
| • |
We also continued to make investments in customer data science, business analytics, and pricing optimization, allowing us to collect and analyze data and make fact-based decisions to more efficiently run our business. |
At the Vera Bradley brand:
| • |
We expanded our robust product innovation pipeline, including launching our Leather Collection, which was highly successful and will expand in fiscal 2025. |
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We launched our NFL collection, with plans to add additional teams in fiscal 2025. |
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We continued another year of product collaborations with iconic brands such as Disney, Harry Potter, Star Wars, Hello Kitty, and Peanuts, which align with our target customers and expand our customer reach. |
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We made strides in sustainability by committing that the majority of our cotton products will be Better Cotton TM by fiscal 2025. By joining Better Cotton, Vera Bradley is helping to scale towards net positive social and environmental cotton farming. Better Cotton is sourced via a chain-of-custody model called mass balance. This means that Better Cotton is not physically traceable to end products; however, Better Cotton Farmers benefit from the demand for Better Cotton in equivalent volumes to those we source. Vera Bradley is committed to sourcing 75% of our cotton as Better Cotton in calendar 2024. |
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In the fourth quarter, we transformed our online outlet from a flash-sale model to an everyday extension of our outlet stores – outlet.verabradley.com. This brought new customers to the brand and helped offset weakness in the outlet store channel. |
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We made navigation changes on verabradley.com, which were successful in reducing bounce rate and driving conversion and sales. |
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We continued to strengthen and rationalize our store base. We have taken needed steps, via product, marketing, and expense discipline, to improve the profitability of our full-line stores and closed fewer locations than originally expected. In fiscal 2024, we closed eight underperforming full-line stores and one outlet store, and opened three outlet stores, ending the fiscal year with 43 full-line and 81 outlet locations. |
| VERA BRADLEY, INC. | 2024 Proxy Statement ● 1 |
Table of Contents
Proxy Summary
At the Pura Vida brand:
| • |
On the marketing front, our comprehensive customer data platform implemented in fiscal 2024 is allowing us to be more analytical and to more strategically target customers and potential customers, with a keen focus on both customer acquisition and retention. |
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Our summer and fall “Live Free” and “College Mobile” tours were successes for customer engagement. |
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We continued collaborations with Disney, Harry Potter, Hello Kitty, and the World Surf League; partnered with key influencers; and offered |
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themed-collections centered around key events such as Shark Week. |
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We continued to innovate and added a new men’s jewelry collection, which still targets our core customer, who purchases these items for the men in her life. |
| • |
Based on the success of our existing Pura Vida stores, we identified two new Pura Vida store locations that will open in fiscal 2025. To gain both operational and strategic efficiency, we moved the Pura Vida store operations under the Vera Bradley team. |
FINANCIAL RESULTS
The graphs below provide a ‘‘snapshot’’ of our performance in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) in fiscal 2024 and the previous three fiscal years.
Fiscal 2024 items impacting comparability . During fiscal 2024, Vera Bradley, Inc. net income was impacted by $9.4 million of net after tax charges including $4.2 million of intangible asset impairment charges, $2.3 million for the amortization of definite-lived intangible assets, $2.2 million of severance charges, and $0.7 million of consulting and professional fees primarily associated with strategic initiatives. Collectively, these charges negatively impacted EPS by approximately $0.30 in fiscal 2024. Refer to Notes 15 and 16 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements set forth in Part II, Item 8 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 3, 2024 for additional information.
Fiscal 2023 items impacting comparability . During fiscal 2023, Vera Bradley, Inc. net loss was impacted by $56.5 million of after-tax charges including $40.7 million of goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges; $7.4 million of severance, retention, and former CEO stock-based compensation charges associated with retirement; $3.3 million of consulting and professional fees primarily associated with cost savings initiatives, the CEO search, and strategic initiatives; $1.9 million for the amortization of definite-lived intangible assets; $1.2 of PO cancellation fees; $1.1 million of store and
right-of-use asset impairment charges; $0.8 million related to the new CEO sign-on bonus and relocation expenses; and $0.1 million of goodMRKT brand exit costs. Collectively, these charges negatively impacted EPS by approximately $1.80 in fiscal 2023. Refer to Notes 15 and 16 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements set forth in Part II, Item 8 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 28, 2023 for additional information.
Fiscal 2022 items impacting comparability . During fiscal 2022, Vera Bradley, Inc. net income was impacted by $1.8 million of charges primarily related to the amortization of definite-lived intangible assets.
Fiscal 2021 items impacting comparability . During fiscal 2021, Vera Bradley, Inc. net income was impacted by $12.7 million of charges including after-tax charges of $4.8 million for amortization of definite-lived intangible assets; $4.5 million of store impairment charges; $2.1 million of technology-related re-platforming charges (“Project Novus”); $1.1 million of COVID-19-related charges including the cancellation of certain purchase orders and certain department store exit costs; and $0.2 million for an adjustment upon payment of the earn-out liability associated with the Pura Vida transaction. These charges negatively impacted diluted EPS by approximately $0.38 in fiscal 2021. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted our operating results for the year.
| 2 ● 2024 Proxy Statement | VERA BRADLEY, INC. |
Table of Contents
Proxy Summary
Corporate Responsibility and our Environmental, Social, and Governance Efforts
Our Company’s strategic direction is fueled by our core values and guided by our desire to create net-positive social, environmental, community, and shareholder gains, by focusing on our products, our communities, and our planet. In each of these areas, we evaluate the impact related to our practices, considering risks and opportunities, making real and measurable progress, and ensuring transparency with our stakeholders.
Vera Bradley, Inc. is committed to responsible, clear, and open business practices. We believe credibility, integrity, and trustworthiness, along with our core values, are critical components of the current and future success of our business.
Our Corporate Social Responsibility Sustainability Report, which can be found at https://verabradley.com/pages/corporate-responsibility , provides an update on progress we have made related to our many
environmental, social, and governance (“ESG”) and sustainability initiatives. In Fiscal 2024, among other things, we further enhanced the quality of our products, broadened our commitment to reducing our impact on climate change, further elevated our responsible sourcing efforts, and made a meaningful impact in the markets we serve through our charitable initiatives.
We are excited about the future and returning our Company to sustainable, profitable growth and strong cash flow, which we believe will deliver long-term value to our shareholders. Our strategic plan, Project Restoration, is designed to drive this long-term, profitable growth. As we improve the health of our brands and our Company, we remain committed to the ESG facets of our business and devoting appropriate resources to the areas that are most impactful to our stakeholders — our customers, our Associates, our shareholders, and our communities.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Sound program design . We have designed our executive officer compensation programs to attract, motivate, and retain the key executives who drive our success. Pay that reflects performance and alignment with the interests of long-term shareholders are key principles. We achieve our objectives through compensation that:
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Provides a competitive total pay opportunity; |
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Links a significant portion of total compensation to performance that we believe will create long-term shareholder value; |
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Enhances retention by subjecting a meaningful portion of total compensation to multi-year vesting; and |
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Does not encourage unnecessary and excessive risk taking. |
Pay practices . We believe that appropriate corporate governance of our executive compensation program is enhanced by a number of practices, including use by the Talent and Compensation Committee of its own independent consultant and compensation tools, the absence of tax gross-ups in any of our compensation programs (including no excise tax gross-ups), and stock ownership guidelines applicable to directors and officers that align shareholder interests by requiring executives to own stock in the Company.
| VERA BRADLEY, INC. | 2024 Proxy Statement ● 3 |
Table of Contents
Proxy Summary
Pay for performance . Our compensation program allows our Talent and Compensation Committee to determine pay based on a comprehensive view of quantitative and qualitative factors designed to produce long-term business success. The correlation between our financial results and executive officer compensation awarded, as described in the “Executive Compensation Discussion and Analysis” or “CDA” which follows in this proxy statement, aligns the interests of our executive officers with those of the Company. Specifically in fiscal 2024:
| • |
The Company’s earnings per share and operating income increased compared to the prior year, resulting in increased payouts under the Company’s long-term and short-term incentive plans. |
| • |
The Company achieved above-threshold levels for Vera Bradley Brand and Enterprise net revenue metrics. The Company achieved below-threshold levels for Pura Vida net revenue metrics. |
Vera Bradley Brand and Enterprise net operating income threshold levels were achieved, while Pura
Vida Brand net operating income threshold level was not achieved. Therefore, there were payouts for these elements of the Company’s short-term incentive plans as they related to Vera Bradley and Enterprise, but not for the Pura Vida Brand.
| • |
The Company achieved threshold levels of its adjusted EPS metric for the fiscal 2024 performance year and of the prior-year performance-based restricted stock unit grants. Long-term incentive was earned for these performance grants. |
| • |
In addition to financial goals, the annual incentive opportunity included key strategic objectives tied to our Vera Bradley, Inc. long-term strategic plan and intended to focus the team on making progress towards the Company’s strategic objectives. These strategic objectives paid out at 130% for the Vera Bradley Brand program, 60% for the Pura Vida Brand program and 140% for the Enterprise program, as described herein. |
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Grants under the Company’s fiscal 2024 Plans vest over a three-year period to promote retention and long-term thinking. |
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE HIGHLIGHTS
Our governance principles and practices include a number of policies and structures that we believe are “best practices” in corporate governance, including:
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Election of Directors for one-year terms; |
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Appointment of a Lead Independent Director who participates in the process of preparing meeting agendas and schedules and presides over executive sessions of each Board meeting; |
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Separation of Chair of the Board and Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) roles; |
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Holding executive sessions with only independent directors present at each meeting of the Board; |
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Minimum stock ownership guidelines applicable to directors and executive officers; |
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Holding requirements for equity grants made to directors and executive officers until minimum stock ownership guidelines are met; |
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Policies prohibiting hedging, pledging, and other problematic transactions involving Company securities by executive officers, directors, and key employees; |
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Practice of no excise tax gross-ups for directors and executive officers; |
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Allowing shareholders to unilaterally amend our bylaws; and |
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Inclusion of double triggers for Severance Plan benefits upon a change in control. |
| 4 ● 2024 Proxy Statement | VERA BRADLEY, INC. |
Table of Contents
Proxy Summary
SHAREHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
The Board maintains a process for shareholders and interested parties to communicate with the Board. Shareholders and interested parties may write or email our Board as provided below:
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Write: Corporate Secretary Vera Bradley, Inc. 12420 Stonebridge Road Roanoke, Indiana 46783 |
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Internet: http://investors.verabradley.com/corporate-governance/contact-the-board or http://investors.verabradley.com/contact-us |
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Email: investorrelations@verabradley.com |
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We understand the importance of a robust shareholder engagement program. To that end, our Chief Executive Officer and appropriate members of management routinely participate in meetings and conference calls with institutional and individual shareholders. Our meetings and interactions with shareholders are designed to help us better understand how our shareholders perceive the Company and to provide our shareholders an opportunity to discuss matters that they believe deserve attention. We believe our engagement has been productive and provides an open exchange of ideas and perspectives for both our shareholders and us.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
See “Questions and Answers” on page 42 for additional information.
Please see the Questions and Answers section beginning on page 42 for important information
about the proxy materials, voting, the Annual Meeting, Vera Bradley documents, communications, and the deadlines to submit shareholder proposals for the 2025 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.
Note about forward-looking statements
Certain statements in this proxy statement, other than purely historical information, which may include estimates, projections, statements relating to our business plans, objectives, and expected operating results and the assumptions upon which those statements are based, are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements may appear throughout this Proxy Statement, including without limitation, this Proxy Summary and “Executive Compensation Discussion and Analysis.” These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “believe,” “project,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “strategy,” “future,” “opportunity,” “plan,” “may,” “should,” “will,” “would,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will likely result,” and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties which may cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements. A detailed discussion of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and events to differ materially from such forward-looking statements is included in the section titled “Risk Factors” of our Forms 10-K and 10-Q. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us, or that we currently deem to be immaterial, also may materially impact such forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
| VERA BRADLEY, INC. | 2024 Proxy Statement ● 5 |
Table of Contents
PROPOSAL NO. 1
ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
VOTE REQUIRED AND BOARD RECOMMENDATION
The Company’s directors are elected for one-year terms, and below are the Directors nominated for election by shareholders at this year’s annual shareholders’ meeting. The Board recommends a vote “FOR” each of the Directors. Each Director nominee will be elected by a plurality of votes cast, which means that the nominees receiving the highest number of votes will be elected as directors. Abstentions and broker non-votes will have no effect on the vote.
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NAME AND OCCUPATION |
AGE |
DIRECTOR
SINCE |
INDEPENDENT (Y/N) |
OTHER
PUBLIC BOARDS |
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Jacqueline Ardrey President and Chief Executive Officer, Vera Bradley, Inc. |
55 | 2022 | N | — | ||||
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Barbara Bradley Baekgaard Co-Founder, Vera Bradley, Inc. |
85 | 1982 | N | — | ||||
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Kristina Cashman Restaurant Consultant, former Chief Financial Officer, several restaurant companies |
57 | 2020 | Y | 1 | ||||
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Robert J. Hall President, Green Gable Partners |
65 | 2007 | N | — | ||||
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Mary Lou Kelley Retired President, E-Commerce for Best Buy |
63 | 2015 | Y | 2 | ||||
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Frances P. Philip Retired Chief Merchandising Officer, L.L. Bean, Inc. |
66 | 2011 | Y | 1 | ||||
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Jessica Rodriguez Former President of Entertainment and Chief Brand Officer, Univision Communications, Inc. |
51 | 2024 | Y | 1 | ||||
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Carrie M. Tharp VP, Global Strategic Industries, Google Cloud |
43 | 2020 | Y | 1 | ||||
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Bradley Weston Former Chief Executive Officer, Party City Holdings, Inc. |
59 | 2024 | Y | 1 | ||||
Additional information regarding each director nominee follows below.
The Board of Directors has no reason to believe that any of the nominees will be unable to serve as a director. If, however, any nominee becomes unable to serve as a director prior to the Annual Meeting, the proxies will have discretionary authority to vote for a substitute nominee. Unless authority to do so is withheld, the persons named as proxies will vote “FOR” the election of the nominees.
| VERA BRADLEY’S BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS A VOTE “ FOR ” THE ELECTION OF THE ABOVE-LISTED NOMINEES TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS. |
| VERA BRADLEY, INC. | 2024 Proxy Statement ● 1 |
Table of Contents
PROPOSAL NO. 1 Election of Directors
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
DIRECTOR QUALIFICATIONS AND SELECTION PROCESS
Each year at the Company’s annual meeting of shareholders, the Board recommends a slate of director nominees for election by shareholders. In addition, the Board fills vacancies on the Board when necessary or appropriate. The Board’s recommendations or determinations are based on the recommendations of, and information supplied by, the Nominating, Governance and Sustainability Committee as to the suitability of each individual and, where applicable, the slate as a whole to serve as directors, taking into account the criteria described below and other factors, including the requirements for Board committee membership.
The Nominating, Governance and Sustainability Committee is responsible for, among other things, reviewing on an annual basis the appropriate skills and characteristics required of directors in the context of prevailing business conditions and for making recommendations regarding the size and composition of the Board. The objective is a Board that brings to the Company a variety of perspectives and skills that are derived from high-quality business and professional experience and that are aligned with the Company’s strategic objectives. The Board has determined the most effective size of the Board currently to be nine members and, effective at the Annual Meeting, has set the number of directors at nine.
Nominees for the Board must be committed to enhancing long-term shareholder value and possess a high level of personal and professional ethics, sound business judgment, appropriate experience and achievements, personal character, and integrity. Board members are expected to understand our business and the industry in which we operate, regularly attend Board and relevant committee meetings, participate in meetings and decision-making processes in an objective and constructive manner, and be available to advise our officers and management. Evaluations of candidates generally involve a review of background materials, internal discussions, and interviews with selected candidates, as appropriate. Upon selection of a qualified candidate, the Nominating, Governance and Sustainability Committee recommends the candidate to the Board.
The Board also seeks members from diverse backgrounds so that the Board consists of members with a broad spectrum of experience and expertise and with a reputation for integrity. As a company founded by women, for women, the Company is thrilled to have seven strong, accomplished women serve on our Board of Directors. With 78% current female board membership, Vera Bradley is one of only a few public companies with such high female representation. Below is a chart depicting the Board’s diversity statistics as of April 26, 2024:
BOARD DIVERSITY MATRIX
TOTAL NUMBER OF DIRECTORS: 9
| FEMALE | MALE |
NON- BINARY |
DID NOT DISCLOSE GENDER |
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Part I: Gender Identity |
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Directors |
7 | 2 | ||||||
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Part II: Demographic Background |
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African American or Black |
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Alaskan Native or Native American |
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Asian |
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Hispanic or Latinx |
1 | |||||||
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Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander |
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White |
6 | 2 | ||||||
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Two or More Races or Ethnicities |
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LGBTQ+ |
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Did Not Disclose Demographic Background |
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The Nominating, Governance and Sustainability Committee may engage consultants or third-party search firms to assist in identifying and evaluating potential nominees. In recommending nominees, the Nominating, Governance and Sustainability Committee considers nominees recommended by the Company’s shareholders in the same manner as described above provided any such shareholder follows the procedures set forth in the Company’s bylaws.
| 2 ● 2024 Proxy Statement | VERA BRADLEY, INC. |
Table of Contents
PROPOSAL NO. 1 Election of Directors
DIRECTOR NOMINEES FOR ELECTION AT THE 2024 ANNUAL MEETING
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Jacqueline Ardrey |
Age (1) 55 | |
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President and CEO |
Director Since 2022 | |
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Ms. Ardrey joined Vera Bradley as its President and Chief Executive Officer in November 2022. At that same time, she also joined the Company’s Board of Directors. Between November 2018 and October 2022, she held the post of President at home furnishings and seasonal décor catalog retailer Grandin Road, part of the Qurate Retail Group. In 2017 and 2018, Ms. Ardrey was CEO of home furnishings and seasonal décor retailer, Trading Company Holdings. Prior to that, she was Founder and CEO of Oregon Home Gourmet and Senior Vice President of Merchandising and Supply Chain for iconic omnichannel gourmet food and gifting brand Harry and David. Previously, she spent 14 years at multi-channel high-end children’s retailer Hanna Andersson in various roles of increasing responsibility, including Senior Vice President of Merchandising, Design, and Wholesale. Ms. Ardrey began her retail career with the May Company.
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Qualifications: Ms. Ardrey is an accomplished, results-oriented leader with over 30 years of experience in multi-channel retail enterprises. She has demonstrated success in motivating and coaching teams through strategic change while consistently delivering results. She has a deep background in strategic planning and execution, brand positioning, product development, buying and merchandising, inventory management, planning and allocation, and financial planning and analysis. |
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Barbara Bradley Baekgaard |
Age (1) 85 | |
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Co-Founder |
Director Since 1982 | |
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Ms. Baekgaard co-founded Vera Bradley in 1982. From 1982 through June 2010, she served as Co-President, and in May 2010, she was appointed Chief Creative Officer. In 2017, Ms. Baekgaard became emeritus from the Chief Creative Officer role but still serves as an active brand ambassador for the Vera Bradley brand. She currently serves as a board member of the Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center Development Board and the Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer.
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Qualifications: As Co-Founder of Vera Bradley, Ms. Baekgaard serves a key leadership role on our Board of Directors and provides the Board with a broad array of institutional knowledge and historical perspective. Since our founding, Ms. Baekgaard has provided leadership and strategic direction in Vera Bradley brand’s development by providing creative vision to areas such as marketing, product design, assortment planning, and the design and visual merchandising of our stores. |
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Kristina Cashman |
Age (1) 57 | |
| Director Since 2020 | ||
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Since April 2019, Ms. Cashman has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Cashman Restaurant Retail Consulting. Ms. Cashman’s prior experience includes serving as Chief Financial Officer of several restaurant companies including Hopdoddy Burger Bar, Inc., Eddie V’s Restaurants, Inc., and P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, as well as serving as President of Guy and Larry Restaurants, Inc.
Ms. Cashman serves as a director and Chair of the Audit Committee for publicly-held Basset Furniture Industries, Inc. and as a director and chair of the audit committee for privately-held Munchkin, Inc., an infant and toddler lifestyle brand.
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Qualifications: Ms. Cashman brings to the Board of Directors particular knowledge and experience in finance, accounting, tax, and capital structure, as well as strategic planning, real estate strategy and selection, operations, and incentive compensation plan development. |
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| VERA BRADLEY, INC. | 2024 Proxy Statement ● 3 |
Table of Contents
PROPOSAL NO. 1 Election of Directors
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Robert J. Hall |
Age (1) 65 | |
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Chair |
Director Since 2007 | |
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Mr. Hall has served as Chair of the Board since September 2010. Mr. Hall is the President of Green Gables Partners, a private investment firm that he founded in 2010. Prior to founding Green Gables, Mr. Hall started Andesite Holdings, a private equity firm, where he served as principal from 2007 to 2014. Mr. Hall served as an Executive Director for UBS Financial Services from 2000 to 2007.
Mr. Hall serves as a director of FlyLow Gear Co., a privately-held manufacturer of outerwear; a director of Glade Optics, a privately-held retailer of ski goggles and casual apparel and accessories; and Chairman of the U.S. Biathlon Association.
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Qualifications: Mr. Hall provides our Board of Directors with insight and perspective on general strategic and financial matters stemming from his extensive experience in investment banking, investment management, financial planning, and private placements. |
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Mary Lou Kelley |
Age (1) 63 | |
| Director Since 2015 | ||
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Ms. Kelley served as President, E-Commerce for electronics retailer Best Buy from April 2014 through March 2017. Prior to joining Best Buy, Ms. Kelley served as Senior Vice President, E-Commerce for Chico’s FAS Inc. from June 2010 to March 2014. Ms. Kelley formerly held the posts of Vice President of Retail Real Estate and Marketing and Vice President of E-Commerce for L.L. Bean.
Ms. Kelley serves on the public company boards of YETI Holdings, Inc. a premium cooler and drinkware company, and Finning International, the world’s largest Caterpillar equipment dealer with operations in Canada, South America, the United Kingdom, and Ireland. She previously served as an advisor to the board of directors and senior leadership of Falabella Retail, the largest department store retailer in South America.
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Qualifications: Ms. Kelley has deep capabilities in developing retail omni-channel experience, as well as e-commerce, marketing, and strategic planning. She provides insight and counsel on a variety of issues as the Company continues to pursue our long-term strategic plan, which includes elevating our digital-first strategy and our marketing efforts. |
||
|
Frances P. Philip |
Age (1) 66 | |
| Director Since 2011 | ||
|
Ms. Philip assumed the role of Lead Independent Director in May 2022.
Since 2015, Ms. Philip has served as Chief Creative Officer of Sea Bags, a privately-held manufacturer and retailer of handcrafted tote bags and accessories made from recycled sails. From 1994 to 2011, Ms. Philip held positions of increasing responsibility at L.L. Bean, Inc., a privately-held outdoor apparel and equipment retailer based in Freeport, Maine, including Chief Merchandising Officer from 2002 to 2011. Prior to working at L.L. Bean, Ms. Philip was one of three principals who launched the innovative fresh flower catalog, Calyx Corolla, and she served in a variety of roles with other specialty retailers, including The Nature Company, Williams-Sonoma, and The Gap.
Ms. Philip also serves on the board of Coats Group plc., a UK-based company that is the world’s leading industrial thread company and traded on the London Stock Exchange, and Totes-Isotoner Corporation, a privately-held international umbrella, footwear, and cold-weather accessory supplier.
|
||
|
Qualifications: Ms. Philip brings to our Board of Directors extensive experience in product design and development, multi-channel merchandising, branding, marketing, creative, and the retail and consumer products industry. |
||
| 4 ● 2024 Proxy Statement | VERA BRADLEY, INC. |
Table of Contents
PROPOSAL NO. 1 Election of Directors
|
Jessica Rodriguez |
Age (1) 51 | |
| Director Since 2024 | ||
|
From October 2018 until March 2022, Ms. Rodriguez served as President of Entertainment for Univision Communications, Inc., an American Spanish-language television network, and assumed the additional role of Chief Brand Officer from July 2021 through March 2022. Ms. Rodriguez began her 20-plus year career in media as Vice President and Station Manager for Univision Puerto Rico. From there, she successfully progressed through the organization in roles of increasing responsibility, including Vice President and Special Assistant to the President for Univision Networks, Inc.; Senior Vice President, Univision Cable Networks; Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, Univision; and Chief Operating Officer, Univision Networks, a post she held from January 2018 through December 2020.
Ms. Rodriguez currently serves as a member of the board for public company off-price retailer Burlington Stores, Inc.
|
||
|
Qualifications: Ms. Rodriguez brings particular knowledge and experience in business strategy; operations; media and brand marketing; consumer insights; and creating, transforming, leading, and motivating high-performing, diverse, purpose-driven organizations. She provides insight and counsel on a variety of issues as the Company continues to execute our long-term strategic plan, which includes elevating our digital-first strategy and our marketing efforts. |
||
|
Bradley Weston |
Age (1) 59 | |
| Director Since 2024 | ||
|
From April 2020 to November 2023, Mr. Weston served as the Chief Executive Officer of Party City Holdco, Inc., a manufacturer, wholesaler, and retailer of party supplies. From July 2019 to April 2020, he held the post of President of Party City Holdings, Inc. and Chief Executive Officer of Party City Retail. Party City Holdco, Inc. filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in January 2023. Previously, he spent seven years with Petco Animal Supplies, Inc. in roles of increasing responsibility from Chief Merchandising Officer to President and Chief Executive Officer. He also led the merchant organization at Dick’s Sporting Goods from 2008 to 2011 as Chief Merchandising Officer. Prior to that, he successfully rose through the ranks at May Department Stores from Executive Trainee to Senior Vice President, General Merchandising Manager, Ready-to-Wear.
Mr. Weston is currently a member of the board of public company Boot Barn, Inc., the largest western and workwear retailer in the U.S.
|
||
|
Qualifications: Mr. Weston is a battle-tested executive with a diverse background, having successfully operated in mature, start-up, turnaround/transformation, and high-growth situations over his 35-year retail career. He has deep knowledge and experience in business strategy, operations, omnichannel retail, and merchandising. He provides meaningful insight as the Company continues to execute our long-term strategic plan. |
||
|
Carrie M. Tharp |
Age (1) 43 | |
| Director Since 2020 | ||
|
Ms. Tharp served as Vice President, Retail and Consumer, for Google Cloud, a global cloud provider, from August 2019 to March 2023, when she was named to her current post at Google Cloud of Vice President, Global Strategic Industries. In her current role she is responsible for all industries including retail, consumer goods, media and entertainment, financial services, healthcare, and telecommunications. Between October 2016 and July 2019, she was Executive Vice President, Chief Digital Officer of luxury retailer Neiman Marcus Group and served as Interim Neiman Marcus Brand President from January 2019 until July 2019. Neiman Marcus filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in May 2020. From June 2013 until September 2016, Ms. Tharp served as Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer and Head of eCommerce for Fossil Group, a multi-brand watch and accessories business. Prior to that, she held various management positions with Travelocity and Dean Foods.
Ms. Tharp is a member of the board of privately-held premier off-price ecommerce company, Rue Gilt Groupe, Inc., and serves on the board of privately-held, digitally-native luxury company Moda Operandi. She has also served on the board of The National Retail Federation (NRF) since 2023.
|
||
|
Qualifications: Ms. Tharp has extensive omni-channel retail experience, including in the handbag and accessories categories; a track record of growth and profit performance improvement; and expertise in e-commerce, marketing with vertically integrated consumer brands, brand management, digital fluency, social media, customer insights, analytics, customer strategy, and machine learning/Artificial Intelligence (AI), and generative AI. |
||
| (1) |
Represents age as of the Annual Meeting date. |
| VERA BRADLEY, INC. | 2024 Proxy Statement ● 5 |
Table of Contents
Corporate Governance
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
We believe corporate governance should promote the long-term interests of our shareholders, as well as maintain internal checks and balances, strengthen management accountability, engender public trust, and foster responsible decision making and accountability. We continue to evaluate and strengthen existing governance practices and, as appropriate, develop new policies that make us a better company. To that end, the following policies and practices are used to guide and regulate various actions, in addition to the Company’s Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE GUIDELINES
Our Corporate Governance Guidelines set out various rules and principles for self-governance and address such matters as Board composition and structure, duties and responsibilities of directors and the Board and the duties of the Lead Independent Director, among other matters.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST AND BUSINESS ETHICS POLICY
We believe that credibility, integrity, trustworthiness, and our core values are critical components of the current and future success of our business. Our Conflict of Interest and Business Ethics Policy is intended to help uphold high ethical standards in all of our operations by promoting ethical conduct and compliance with applicable laws, rules, regulations, and standards. Our Board recognizes that no code of ethics can replace the thoughtful behavior of an ethical director or employee, but such a Code can provide guidance to help recognize and deal with ethical issues and to foster a culture of accountability.
CODE OF ETHICS FOR SENIOR FINANCIAL OFFICERS
In addition to being subject to the Conflict of Interest and Business Ethics Policy, our CEO, Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”), and Corporate Controller and Treasurer are also subject to our Code of Ethics for Senior Financial Officers. We will disclose on our website (www.verbradley.com) any amendment to, or waiver from, a provision of the Conflict of Interest and Business Ethics Policy or the Code of Ethics for Senior Financial Officers that applies to our CEO, CFO, or Corporate Controller and Treasurer, or persons performing similar functions and that relates to:
| • |
Honest and ethical conduct, including the ethical handling of actual or apparent conflicts of interest between personal and professional relationships. |
| • |
Full, fair, accurate, timely, and understandable disclosure in reports and documents that we file with the SEC and in other public communications we make. |
| • |
Compliance with applicable governmental laws, rules, and regulations. |
| • |
The prompt internal reporting of violations of the Code to an appropriate person or persons identified in the Code. |
| • |
Accountability for adherence to the Code. |
RISK OVERSIGHT
Our Board has and exercises ultimate oversight responsibility with respect to enterprise risk assessment and to the management of the strategic, operational, financial, cybersecurity, and legal risks facing our Company and its operations and financial condition. The Board is involved in setting our business and financial strategies and establishing what constitutes the appropriate level of risk for us and our business segments. Various committees of the Board provide assistance to the Board in its oversight of, among other things, risk assessment and risk management. The Board also monitors the process by which risk assessment and management is developed and implemented by management and reported to the full Board.
Our Audit Committee assists the Board in its oversight of our policies relating to risk assessment and risk management generally, with particular focus on our management of major financial and cybersecurity risk exposures.
Our Talent and Compensation Committee assists the Board in assessing the nature and degree of risk that may be created by our compensation policies and practices to ensure their appropriateness in terms of both the level of risk-taking and consistency with our business strategies. In conjunction with its assessment, the Committee, with the assistance of independent consultants and independent compensation resources, reviews our compensation policies and practices. That review encompasses each of our incentive plans, eligible participants, performance measurements, parties responsible for certifying performance achievement and sums that could be earned, including caps on the amount of bonus and performance share units that can be earned.
| 6 ● 2024 Proxy Statement | VERA BRADLEY, INC. |
Table of Contents
Corporate Governance
STOCK OWNERSHIP GUIDELINES
Our Board of Directors has adopted stock ownership guidelines for directors, executive officers, and other senior executives. These guidelines are a means to motivate directors and executives to perpetuate enduring shareholder value and to ensure that the interests of directors and executives are aligned with those of shareholders.
The stock ownership guidelines require that all non-employee directors own share units (as defined below) of the Company’s common stock with a value equal to four times the annual cash retainer, or $198,000 in fiscal 2024. Until such time as a director has attained the applicable share ownership guideline, he or she is expected to retain share units awarded to him or her by the Company, with certain allowances to sell in order to meet tax obligations. The guideline is automatically revised in the event that the annual retainer is changed.
The CEO is required to hold share units with a value equal to four times her annual base salary rate, or $3,400,000 in fiscal 2024. The guideline is automatically revised in the event the CEO’s annual base salary rate changes. Certain executive officers, as determined by the Talent and Compensation Committee, are required to hold share units with a value equal to two times their annual base salary rate. Until such time as the CEO or another officer covered by the guidelines has attained the applicable share ownership guideline, they are expected to retain the share units awarded to him or her by the Company, with certain allowances to sell in order to meet tax obligations.
The guidelines define a “share unit” as each share of Vera Bradley common stock beneficially owned, including shares of restricted stock and restricted stock units (but excluding any stock options). Both vested and unvested shares of restricted stock and restricted stock units are included in calculating share units. Unvested equity awards subject to performance criteria are included at achieved performance levels for completed performance years and at estimated performance levels for incomplete performance years. All directors and officers subject to the stock ownership guidelines were in compliance with the guidelines as of April 3, 2024.
HEDGING, DERIVATIVES AND PLEDGING
The Company has adopted an Insider Trading Policy, which, among other things, prohibits directors and employees from:
| • |
Entering into hedging (making an investment to reduce the risk of adverse price movements or to offset potential losses/gains in a Company security) or other monetization transactions or similar arrangements with respect to the Company’s securities. |
| • |
Engaging in transactions in publicly-traded options on Company securities (such as puts, calls, and other derivative securities). |
| • |
Entering into pledging arrangements with respect to Company securities. |
TALENT AND COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION
The members of the Talent and Compensation Committee as of February 3, 2024 were Frances P. Philip, Kristina Cashman, and Carrie M. Tharp. None of the members of the Talent and Compensation Committee are now serving or previously have served as employees or officers of the Company or any subsidiary, nor has any member of the Talent and Compensation Committee engaged in any related party transaction with the Company. None of the Company’s executive officers serve as directors of, or in any compensation-related capacity for, companies with which members of the Talent and Compensation Committee are affiliated.
POLICY ON RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
In accordance with the rules of The NASDAQ Stock Market and our Audit Committee Charter, our Audit Committee reviews and, prior to consummation, approves any transaction, arrangement, or relationship in which the Company is a participant; the amount involved exceeds $120,000; and one of our executive officers, directors, director nominees, or 5% or greater shareholders (or their immediate family members) (each, a “related party”) has a direct or indirect material interest. Based on its consideration of all relevant facts and circumstances, the Audit Committee decides whether or not to approve the particular transaction and will generally approve only those transactions that are on terms no less favorable to us than those that we could obtain from unaffiliated third parties and have terms and conditions that are reasonable and customary.
| VERA BRADLEY, INC. | 2024 Proxy Statement ● 7 |
Table of Contents
Corporate Governance
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS FOR FISCAL 2024
Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer. The Company routinely makes charitable contributions to the Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer (the “Foundation”) and also provides employees and office space to the Foundation. The Foundation was founded by co-founder of the Company, Barbara Bradley Baekgaard. Ms. Baekgaard is an employee and director of the Company and serves on the board of directors of the Foundation. There were approximately $139,000 of Company contributions made to the Foundation in fiscal 2024.
FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS
Barbara Bradley Baekgaard and Patricia Miller founded the Company in 1982 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Ms. Baekgaard is an employee and director of the Company. Robert J. Hall, our Board Chair, is the son-in-law of Ms. Baekgaard.
COPIES OF GOVERNANCE DOCUMENTS
You may view the following documents at http://investors.verabradley.com/corporate-governance (please note that our website is not a part of this proxy statement):
| • |
Corporate Governance Guidelines |
| • |
Conflict of Interest and Business Ethics Policy |
| • |
Code of Ethics for Senior Financial Officers |
| • |
Insider Trading Policy |
| • |
Stock Ownership Guidelines |
| • |
Disclosure Policy |
| 8 ● 2024 Proxy Statement | VERA BRADLEY, INC. |
Table of Contents
The Board and its Committees
THE BOARD AND ITS COMMITTEES
BOARD RESPONSIBILITIES
Being elected to serve on the Board of Directors is a high honor and privilege, and one that carries with it a serious responsibility to serve the interests of the Company and its shareholders. It is our desire that all Board members conduct themselves and perform their duties in an exemplary fashion, commensurate with the position of leadership that has been bestowed upon them by the shareholders.
Each Board member has the following basic responsibilities:
| • |
To support the mission and purpose of the Company, and to abide by its Articles of Incorporation, Bylaws, and policies. |
| • |
To be diligent in preparation for, attendance at, and participation in Board meetings and related activities on behalf of the Company. |
| • |
To ensure that the financial and business affairs of the Company are, to the best of the Board member’s awareness, managed in a responsible manner. |
| • |
To act always in good faith and in the best interest of the Company, above any personal interest. |
| • |
To maintain the confidentiality of sensitive or proprietary information obtained as a result of Board service. |
The primary duties of the Board include maximizing long-term shareholder value, by:
| • |
Ensuring that the Company operates in a legal, ethical, and socially responsible manner. |
| • |
Selecting, evaluating, and offering substantive advice and counsel to the CEO and working with the CEO to develop effective measurement systems that will evaluate and determine the Company’s degree of success in creating long-term economic value for its shareholders. |
| • |
Reviewing, approving, and monitoring fundamental financial and business strategies and major corporate actions. |
| • |
Overseeing the Company’s capital structure and financial policies and practices. |
| • |
Assessing major risks facing the Company and reviewing options for their mitigation. |
| • |
Providing counsel and oversight on the selection, evaluation, development, and compensation of executive officers and providing critical and candid feedback on their performance. |
BOARD INDEPENDENCE
A majority of our directors are independent of the Company and management. The Board (with the input of the Nominating, Governance and Sustainability Committee) has evaluated all business and charitable relationships between the Company and the Company’s current non-employee directors and nominees for election at the May 30, 2024 Annual Meeting and all other relevant facts and circumstances. As a result of the evaluation, the Board determined, as required by the Company’s Corporate Governance Guidelines, that the following non-employee directors or nominees are “independent” as defined by the standards for director independence established and described below: Kristina Cashman, Mary Lou Kelley, Frances P. Philip, Jessica Rodriguez, Carrie M. Tharp, and Bradley Weston. Under these same standards, the Board of Directors has determined that Jacqueline Ardrey, Barbara Bradley Baekgaard, and Robert J. Hall are not independent.
Under the corporate governance requirements of The NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ”) our Board of Directors has a responsibility to make an affirmative determination that our directors serving as independent directors have no relationships with the Company that would impair their independence. Subject to some exceptions, the standards for independent directors established by NASDAQ and the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) generally provide that a non-employee director will not be independent if (a) the director is, or in the past three years has been, an employee of the Company; (b) the director or a member of the director’s immediate family is, or in the past three years has been, an executive officer of the Company; (c) the director or a member of the director’s immediate family has, in the past three years, received more than $120,000 per year in direct compensation from the Company (other than for service as a director or, for the immediate family member, as a non-executive employee); (d) the director is an employee, or the director or a member of the director’s immediate family is
| VERA BRADLEY, INC. | 2024 Proxy Statement ● 9 |
Table of Contents
The Board and its Committees
employed as a partner, of Deloitte Touche LLP, the Company’s independent registered public accountants, or the director has an immediate family member who is a current employee of such firm and works in any capacity on the Company’s audit, or the director or an immediate family member was within the last three years a partner or employee of such firm and personally worked on the Company’s audit within that time; (e) the director or a member of the director’s immediate family is, or in the past three years has been, employed as an executive officer of a company where a Vera Bradley executive officer at the same time serves or served on the Talent and Compensation committee; or (f) the director is an employee, or a member of the director’s immediate family is an executive officer, of a company that makes payments to, or receives payments from, Vera Bradley in an amount which, in any twelve-month period during the past three years, exceeds the greater of $200,000 or five percent of the consolidated gross revenues of the company receiving the payment.
The Company’s Corporate Governance Guidelines require that the independent directors meet in executive session at each regular meeting of the Board and, in fiscal 2024, they met in executive session during each regular meeting for a total of five times. These executive sessions are chaired by the Lead Independent Director, Ms. Philip.
BOARD LEADERSHIP STRUCTURE AND LEAD INDEPENDENT DIRECTOR
Our Board of Directors believes that one of its most important functions is to protect shareholders’ interests through independent oversight of management, including the CEO; however, the Board of Directors does not believe that effective management oversight necessarily mandates a particular management structure, such as a separation of the role and identities of the Chair of the Board of Directors and CEO. The Board considers it important to retain flexibility to exercise its judgment as to the most appropriate management structure for us, based on the particular circumstances facing us from time to time. Currently, the positions of Chair of the Board of Directors and CEO are held by separate persons.
Frances P. Philip serves as the Lead Independent Director. Pursuant to the Company’s Corporate Governance Guidelines, the lead director is an independent director who is elected from time to time, but not less frequently than annually, by the affirmative vote of a majority of the independent directors. The Lead Independent Director, among other things, chairs executive sessions of the independent directors, reviews the meeting agenda with our CEO, leads the discussion with our CEO following the independent directors’ executive sessions, ensures that the Board’s individual group and committee self-assessments are done annually and leads periodic discussions with other Board members and management concerning the Board’s information needs. The Board believes this structure allows all of the independent directors to participate in the full range of the Board’s responsibilities with respect to its oversight of the Company’s management. The Board of Directors has determined that this leadership structure is appropriate given the size and complexity of the Company, the number of directors overseeing the Company, and the Board of Directors’ oversight responsibilities. Further, the Board of Directors believes that these responsibilities appropriately and effectively complement the roles of our Chair of the Board and CEO.
STANDING COMMITTEES AND MEETINGS OF THE BOARD
Our Board of Directors has established Audit; Talent and Compensation; and Nominating, Governance and Sustainability Committees. Only independent directors are members of these three committees.
Our Board of Directors held five meetings during fiscal 2024, and each of our directors attended at least 75% of the total number of meetings of the Board and at least 75% of the committees of the Board of which such director was a member held during the period in which such director served. Directors are encouraged to attend our annual meetings of shareholders, and all directors serving at that time attended the annual shareholders meeting held on May 25, 2023.
| 10 ● 2024 Proxy Statement | VERA BRADLEY, INC. |
Table of Contents
The Board and its Committees
CURRENT COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP
|
COMMITTEE |
INDEPENDENT
MEMBERS |
CHAIR | ||
|
Audit |
Kristina Cashman | ● | ||
| Mary Lou Kelley | ||||
| Jessica Rodriguez | ||||
| Carrie M Tharp | ||||
|
Talent and Compensation |
Carrie M. Tharp | ● | ||
| Kristina Cashman | ||||
| Frances P. Philip | ||||
| Bradley Weston | ||||
|
Nominating, Governance and Sustainability |
Frances P. Philip | ● | ||
| Mary Lou Kelley | ||||
| Jessica Rodriguez | ||||
| Bradley Weston | ||||
Audit Committee. Our Audit Committee reviews and recommends to the Board of Directors internal accounting and financial controls, accounting principles, and auditing practices to be employed in the preparation and review of our financial statements. In addition, our Audit Committee has the authority to engage, oversee, and dismiss public accountants to audit our annual financial statements and determine the scope of the audit to be undertaken by such accountants. Our Audit Committee also reviews the fairness of related party transactions and assists the Board in managing enterprise risk, cybersecurity, and capital spending. The Board of Directors has determined that Kristina Cashman, the Chair of the Audit Committee is an “audit committee financial expert” (as defined by Item 407(d)(5)(ii) of Regulation S-K) and is “independent” (under the definitions and interpretations of NASDAQ Stock Market), in accordance with the rules of The NASDAQ Stock Market. The Audit Committee met eight times in fiscal 2024.
Talent and Compensation Committee. Our Talent and Compensation Committee reviews and determines policies, practices and procedures relating to the compensation of executive officers, including the CEO, and the establishment and administration of certain employee benefit plans for executive officers. The Talent and Compensation Committee has the authority to administer our 2020 Equity and Incentive Plan, as amended (“2020 Plan”) and to advise and consult with our officers regarding managerial personnel policies. The Talent and Compensation Committee met four times in fiscal 2024.
Nominating, Governance and Sustainability Committee. Our Nominating, Governance and Sustainability Committee assists the Board of Directors with its responsibilities regarding the identification of individuals qualified to become directors, the selection of the director nominees for the next annual meeting of shareholders, and the selection of director candidates to fill any vacancies on the Board of Directors. It also has responsibility for the company’s ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) efforts, including reviewing and making recommendations to the Board regarding the Company’s ESG strategy and compliance with corporate governance, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility. The Nominating, Governance and Sustainability Committee also reviews our efforts to audit our suppliers to ensure compliance with our vendor code of conduct. It reviews and makes recommendations to the Board regarding the preparation, review of, and compliance with corporate governance policies, succession planning for the CEO, and tenure and retirement policies for directors. The Nominating, Governance and Sustainability Committee and management are responsible for director continuing education programs to assist directors in maintaining the skills and knowledge necessary or appropriate for the performance of their responsibilities. Continuing education programs for directors may include a combination of internally developed materials and presentations, programs presented by third parties, and financial and administrative support for attendance at qualifying academic or other independent programs. The Nominating, Governance and Sustainability Committee met four times in fiscal 2024.
ANNUAL BOARD AND COMMITTEE EVALUATIONS
Our Board and each of our standing committees annually conduct self-evaluations to identify opportunities to improve Board and committee performance.
COMMITTEE CHARTERS
The charters of the three standing committees of the Board of Directors describe the governance framework for each Committee. The charters, along with the Corporate Governance Guidelines, are intended to ensure our Board has the necessary authority and practices in place to review and evaluate our business operations and to make decisions that are independent of management. These charters are reviewed by each Committee on an annual basis and any recommended changes are made and approved by the Board.
| VERA BRADLEY, INC. | 2024 Proxy Statement ● 11 |
Table of Contents
The Board and its Committees
You may view the charters at http://investors.verabradley.com/corporate-governance.
COMMUNICATIONS WITH DIRECTORS
Shareholders may communicate with our directors by transmitting correspondence to our investor relations desk via the internet at http://investors.verabradley.com/corporate-governance/contact-the-board or to our Secretary at:
Corporate Secretary
c/o Vera Bradley, Inc.
12420 Stonebridge Road
Roanoke, Indiana 46783
The Secretary will, as appropriate, forward communications to the Board of Directors or to any individual director, directors, or committee to whom the communication is directed.
| 12 ● 2024 Proxy Statement | VERA BRADLEY, INC. |
Table of Contents
Director Compensation
DIRECTOR COMPENSATION
The Talent and Compensation Committee annually reviews the compensation for our Board of Directors and looks at director compensation relative to the Company’s Peer Group. The tables below reflect the cash and equity compensation provided for service on our Board. All directors other than Ms. Ardrey and Ms. Baekgaard participate in our non-employee director compensation program.
CASH COMPENSATION FOR NON-EMPLOYEE DIRECTORS
The fee for our non-employee directors under the cash compensation element of the program during fiscal 2024 was $49,500. We pay the Chair of our Board of Directors an additional $27,000 retainer and the Lead Independent Director an additional retainer of $9,000. In addition, we pay the following annual retainers for committee service:
FISCAL 2024 ANNUAL BOARD RETAINERS
|
Audit Committee Chair |
$ | 13,500 | ||
|
Audit Committee Members |
9,000 | |||
|
Talent and Compensation Committee Chair |
9,000 | |||
|
Talent and Compensation Committee Members |
6,300 | |||
|
Nominating, Governance and Sustainability Committee Chair |
7,875 | |||
|
Nominating, Governance and Sustainability Committee Members |
5,400 | |||
All of our directors are reimbursed for reasonable travel and other expenses incurred in connection with attending meetings of the Board of Directors and its committees.
RESTRICTED STOCK UNITS FOR NON-EMPLOYEE DIRECTORS
We also provide each of our non-employee directors with an annual equity grant with a grant date value of approximately $85,000. These restricted stock units vest and settle in our common shares, on a one-for-one basis, on the first anniversary of the grant date. The applicable award agreement also provides that the units shall vest immediately upon the death or disability of the director and upon the occurrence of a change in control of the Company, as defined in the agreement.
FISCAL 2024 DIRECTOR COMPENSATION
The following table summarizes compensation that our non-employee directors earned during fiscal 2024 for services as members of our Board of Directors.
FISCAL 2024 DIRECTOR COMPENSATION
|
NAME (1) |
FEES
EARNED OR PAID IN CASH |
STOCK
AWARDS (2) |
TOTAL | |||||||||
|
Kristina Cashman |
$ | 70,800 | $ | 84,998 | $ | 155,798 | ||||||
|
Robert J. Hall |
76,500 | 84,998 | 161,498 | |||||||||
|
Mary Lou Kelley |
63,900 | 84,998 | 148,898 | |||||||||
|
Frances P. Philip |
72,675 | 84,998 | 157,673 | |||||||||
|
Jessica Rodriguez (4) |
— | — | — | |||||||||
|
Edward M. Schmults (3) |
22,500 | 84,998 | 107,498 | |||||||||
|
Carrie M. Tharp |
63,600 | 84,998 | 148,598 | |||||||||
|
Nancy Twine (3) |
21,300 | 84,998 | 106,298 | |||||||||
|
Bradley Weston (4) |
— | — | — | |||||||||
| (1) |
We did not pay our employee directors, Ms. Ardrey, and Ms. Baekgaard, any compensation for their services on our Board of Directors in fiscal 2024. |
| (2) |
Represents the aggregate grant date fair value of restricted stock awarded during the fiscal year computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. Additional information regarding the calculation of these values is included in Notes 2 and 8 to our consolidated financial statements. |
| (3) |
Ms. Twine and Mr. Schmults retired from the Board of Directors at the 2023 Annual Meeting. |
| (4) |
Ms. Rodriguez and Mr. Weston joined the Board in late fiscal 2024 and did not earn compensation until early fiscal 2025. |
| VERA BRADLEY, INC. | 2024 Proxy Statement ● 13 |
Table of Contents
PROPOSAL NO. 2 Ratification of independent Auditor
PROPOSAL NO. 2
RATIFICATION OF INDEPENDENT AUDITOR
PROPOSAL
The Audit Committee has selected Deloitte Touche LLP, or Deloitte, as our independent registered public accounting firm to audit the consolidated financial statements of Vera Bradley for the fiscal year ending February 1, 2025 (fiscal 2025). The Audit Committee and the Board of Directors seek to have the shareholders ratify the Audit Committee’s appointment of Deloitte. Representatives of Deloitte will be present at the Annual Meeting and will have the opportunity to make a statement, if they desire to do so, and to respond to appropriate questions. Deloitte also served as our independent registered public accounting firm for fiscal 2024.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
The following table sets forth the aggregate fees billed by Deloitte to Vera Bradley for fiscal years 2024 and 2023:
FEES PAID TO DELOITTE
|
FISCAL
2024 |
FISCAL
2023 |
|||||||
|
Audit Fees (1) |
$ | 1,108,430 | $ | 1,229,369 | ||||
|
Audit-Related Fees (2) |
8,000 | — | ||||||
|
Tax Fees (3) |
136,524 | 98,357 | ||||||
|
All Other Fees (4) |
1,895 | 1,895 | ||||||
|
Total |
$ | 1,254,849 | $ | 1,329,621 | ||||
| (1) |
Audit Fees for fiscal years 2024 and 2023 consist of fees for professional services rendered by Deloitte in connection with the integrated audit of the consolidated financial statements and the effectiveness of the Company’s controls over financial reporting and reviews of our interim consolidated financial statements. |
| (2) |
Audit-Related fees consist of fees in conjunction with our fiscal 2024 S-8 shelf registration. |
| (3) |
Tax Fees consist primarily of fees associated with tax compliance, advice, and planning services. |
| (4) |
All Other Fees consist of fees for products and services other than the above-described services. In fiscal years 2024 and 2023, these fees related to an online research database subscription. |
The Audit Committee’s written charter requires the Audit Committee to pre-approve, prior to engagement, all audit and permissible non-audit services provided by the independent registered public accounting firm on an individual basis. All of the services described in the table above were pre-approved by the Audit Committee. The Audit Committee considered the services listed above to be compatible with maintaining Deloitte’s independence.
VOTE REQUIRED AND BOARD RECOMMENDATION
This proposal will be approved if a quorum is present, in person or by proxy, at the Annual Meeting and the votes properly cast favoring the proposal exceed the votes properly cast opposing the proposal. Abstentions and broker non-votes will each be counted as present for purposes of determining the presence of a quorum but will not have any effect on the outcome of the proposal.
| VERA BRADLEY’S BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS A VOTE “FOR” THE RATIFICATION OF THE APPOINTMENT OF DELOITTE AS OUR INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM FOR FISCAL 2025 |
| 14 ● 2024 Proxy Statement | VERA BRADLEY, INC. |
Table of Contents
Audit Committee Report
AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT
Management is responsible for the preparation, presentation and integrity of Vera Bradley’s consolidated financial statements and the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. The independent registered public accounting firm of Deloitte Touche LLP, or Deloitte, was responsible in fiscal 2024 for performing an integrated audit of the Company’s consolidated financial statements and the effectiveness of the Company’s controls over financial reporting. The Audit Committee’s responsibility is to monitor and oversee these processes. The Audit Committee is also responsible for selecting and evaluating the independence of the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm and for pre-approving the services rendered by that firm.
In this context, the Audit Committee reports as follows:
| 1. |
The Audit Committee has reviewed and discussed with management Vera Bradley’s audited consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended February 3, 2024; |
| 2. |
The Audit Committee has discussed with Deloitte the matters required to be discussed by the applicable requirements of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (“PCAOB”) and the Commission; |
| 3. |
The Audit Committee has received and reviewed the written disclosures and the letter from Deloitte required by applicable requirements of the PCAOB regarding Deloitte’s communications with the Audit Committee concerning independence and has discussed with Deloitte its independence; and |
| 4. |
The Audit Committee has considered whether the provision by Deloitte of non-audit services to Vera Bradley is compatible with maintaining Deloitte’s independence. |
Based on these procedures and discussions, the Audit Committee recommended to the Board of Directors that the Company’s audited consolidated financial statements referred to above be included in Vera Bradley’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 3, 2024, for filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
SUBMITTED BY THE AUDIT COMMITTEE
Kristina Cashman, Chair
Mary Lou Kelley
Jessica Rodriguez
Carrie M. Tharp
| VERA BRADLEY, INC. | 2024 Proxy Statement ● 15 |
Table of Contents
PROPOSAL NO. 3
ADVISORY VOTE ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
PROPOSAL
The guiding principles of our compensation policies and decisions include aligning each executive’s compensation with our business strategy and the interests of our shareholders and providing incentives needed to attract, motivate, and retain key executives who are important to our long-term success. Consistent with this philosophy, a significant portion of the total incentive compensation for each of our executives is directly related to our earnings and to other performance factors that measure our progress against the goals of our strategic and operating plans.
Shareholders are urged to read the “Executive Compensation Discussion and Analysis” section of this proxy statement, which discusses how our compensation design and practices reflect our compensation philosophy. The Talent and Compensation Committee and the Board of Directors believe that our compensation design and practices are effective in implementing our guiding principles.
We are required to submit a proposal to shareholders for a (non-binding) advisory vote to approve the compensation of our named executive officers (“NEOs”) pursuant to Section 14A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act. This proposal, commonly known as a “say-on-pay” proposal, gives our shareholders the opportunity to express their views on the compensation of our NEOs. This vote is not intended to address any specific item of compensation, but rather the overall compensation of our NEOs and the principles, policies, and practices described in this proxy statement. Accordingly, the following resolution is submitted for shareholder vote at the Annual Meeting:
“RESOLVED, that the shareholders of Vera Bradley, Inc. approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation of its NEOs as disclosed in the proxy statement for the Annual Meeting, including the Summary Compensation Table, the Executive Compensation Discussion and Analysis, and other related tables and disclosures set forth in such proxy statement.”
Because this vote is advisory, the result will not be binding on us, our Board of Directors, or our Talent and Compensation Committee, although our Talent and Compensation Committee will consider the outcome of the vote when evaluating our compensation principles, design, and practices. Proxies submitted without direction pursuant to this solicitation will be voted “FOR” the approval of the compensation of our NEOs, as disclosed in this proxy statement, except with respect to shares held in street name, for which you must direct your broker to vote such shares. A say-on-pay vote will take place every year as determined by the Board of Directors and based on the advice provided by the shareholders.
VOTE REQUIRED AND BOARD RECOMMENDATION
This proposal will be approved if a quorum is present, in person or by proxy, at the Annual Meeting and the votes properly cast favoring the proposal exceed the votes cast opposing the proposal. Abstentions and broker non-votes will each be counted as present for purposes of determining the presence of a quorum but will not have any effect on the outcome of the proposal.
| VERA BRADLEY’S BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS A VOTE “FOR” APPROVAL OF THE COMPENSATION OF THE NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AS DISCLOSED IN THIS PROXY STATEMENT INCLUDING RELATED TABLES AND DISCLOSURES. |
| 16 ● 2024 Proxy Statement | VERA BRADLEY, INC. |
Table of Contents
Executive Compensation
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
TALENT AND COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT
The Talent and Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors has reviewed and discussed the following Executive Compensation Discussion and Analysis with management and, based on such review and discussion, has recommended to the Board of Directors that the Executive Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in this Proxy Statement and in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 3, 2024.
SUBMITTED BY THE TALENT AND COMPENSATION COMMITTEE
Carrie M. Tharp, Chair
Kristina Cashman
Frances P. Philip
Bradley Weston
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS (“CDA”)
This CDA provides a summary of the material elements of our compensation philosophy and practices, with a particular focus on our named executive officers or “NEOs.” As used in this CDA, the “Committee” refers to the Talent and Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors.
The following is a list of our NEOs who served during fiscal 2024:
|
NAME |
TITLE | |
|
Jacqueline Ardrey |
President and CEO, Vera Bradley, Inc. | |
|
Michael Schwindle |
Chief Financial Officer, Vera Bradley, Inc. | |
|
Mark C. Dely |
Chief Administrative Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary, Vera Bradley, Inc. | |
|
Alison Hiatt |
Chief Marketing Officer, Vera Bradley | |
|
John Enwright (1) |
Former Chief Financial Officer, Vera Bradley, Inc. | |
| (1) |
Mr. Enwright left the Company on June 30, 2023. |
| VERA BRADLEY, INC. | 2024 Proxy Statement ● 17 |
Table of Contents
Executive Compensation
To assist in understanding our NEO compensation program, we have included a discussion of our compensation policies and decisions for periods before and after fiscal 2024, where relevant. Our compensation program is designed to provide some common standards throughout the Company. Therefore, much of what is disclosed below applies to executives in general and is not limited to our NEOs. The Committee constantly evaluates industry and corporate governance best practices in its compensation programs. Below is a summary of what the Company does and does not do with respect to its compensation programs:
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE BEST PRACTICES
| WHAT WE DO | ||
|
|
Pay for Performance: In fiscal 2024, 50% of CEO compensation and an average of 42% of other NEO compensation was tied to performance. |
|
|
|
Double-Trigger Change of Control: Following a change in control, severance payments will only be triggered upon an involuntary termination of employment or where employee terminates for good reason. |
|
|
|
Use of Third-Party Consultants: We utilize compensation consultants and third-party benchmarking to evaluate and compare our compensation programs. |
|
|
|
Share Ownership Guidelines: Executive officers are expected to hold Company common stock between 2 and 4 times their annual base salary, and non-employee directors are expected to hold common stock of 4 times their annual cash retainer. |
|
|
|
Compensation Recoupment Policy: All cash incentive awards or performance-based equity awards are subject to recoupment in the event of earnings restatements. |
|
|
|
Limited use of Employment Agreements: Only our CEO has an employment agreement. |
|
| WHAT WE DON’T DO | ||
|
|
No Hedging or Pledging: Under the Company’s Insider Trading Policy, executives are not allowed to enter into hedging/pledging or other monetization transactions with Company securities. |
|
|
|
No Grants of Stock and Options Below Fair Market Value: All restricted stock units and options are priced and granted at the fair market value at the time of grant. Stock or options are not granted below fair market value. |
|
|
|
No Repricing of Underwater Options/RSUs: The Committee has not repriced any underwater options or otherwise changed the value of RSUs granted despite change in the value of the stock. |
|
|
|
No Short-Term Vesting of Equity Awards: The Company utilizes a three-year time horizon to vest equity granted as part of its Long-Term Incentive Program. |
|
|
|
No Tax Gross-Ups: The Company does not utilize tax gross-ups for executives. |
|
OUR COMPENSATION PHILOSOPHY AND OBJECTIVES
We believe that the Company’s compensation philosophy should act as the “blueprint” for the total compensation design and targeted value to be delivered to the executive officers. Our compensation philosophy is intended to ensure that the framework for the Company’s compensation program supports the strategic
needs of the business, that the components of the pay system work in concert to influence executive behavior in support of organization imperatives, and that the mechanics of the executive reward structure reinforce the corporate culture and management style of the organization.
Our compensation philosophy includes two identifiable components: compensation objectives and pay goals.
| 18 ● 2024 Proxy Statement | VERA BRADLEY, INC. |
Table of Contents
Executive Compensation
Compensation Objectives . These objectives serve as a set of “guiding principles” that provide an overview of the intended purpose of our compensation program. Our compensation objectives are:
| • |
To attract and retain key personnel and drive effective results. |
| • |
To encourage our NEOs to focus on: |
| • |
Building shareholder value. |
| • |
Maximizing growth and profitability. |
| • |
Leadership to drive change while exemplifying Company values. |
| • |
Building a strong brand and focusing on long-term strategic objectives. |
| • |
To provide our NEOs with a compensation package that is competitive within our industry. |
Pay Goals . The Committee has determined that it is beneficial to establish ranges of compensation, both in total and with respect to each of the Company’s main compensation components, around the 50 th percentile of peer group compensation. A primary focus of the Committee in setting executive compensation is to target total compensation within the established ranges noted below, although competitiveness of the other pay components is also strongly considered. For the CEO and the other NEOs, the Talent and Compensation Committee considers the following ranges when assessing the competitiveness of each pay component:
|
COMPENSATION ELEMENT |
PAY GOAL RELATIVE TO PEER GROUP |
|
|
Annual base salary rate: |
50th percentile, +/- 10% | |
|
Target annual incentive: |
50th percentile, +/- 10% | |
|
Target long-term incentive: |
50th percentile, +/- 15% | |
|
Target total compensation: |
50th percentile, +/- 15% | |
COMPENSATION MIX AND PAY FOR PERFORMANCE
Annually, the Committee considers the total compensation opportunities for each NEO and determines how total potential compensation should be allocated across the different elements of compensation. The Committee does not follow a definitive policy when determining the mix of and structure for total compensation. Instead, it considers factors such as achievement of corporate and individual goals, level of experience, responsibilities, demonstrated performance, time with the corporation, risk associated with any payout, and retention considerations.
Generally, the Committee considers market practices as reflected in the peer group data for the peer group identified below and more generally for the Company’s industry to obtain a baseline of total potential compensation for each NEO. Using this analysis as a starting point, the Committee engages in discussions with the objective of ensuring that a material portion of each NEO’s total compensation is at-risk and dependent on performance. Care is taken to balance incentives to drive performance in the short-term and the long-term. In this way, we encourage NEOs to vigorously pursue financial and other performance while discouraging incentives to take excessive risks that may be beneficial in the short term, but harmful in the long run. We believe that these practices align the interests of the NEOs with those of the shareholders year-over-year, as well as over the long term.
| VERA BRADLEY, INC. | 2024 Proxy Statement ● 19 |
Table of Contents
Executive Compensation
The Committee seeks to ensure that a substantial portion of the total compensation awarded to the NEOs is performance-based and is comprised of both annual and long-term incentives. The fiscal 2024 mix of target compensation for the CEO and other NEOs is set forth below:
| FISCAL 2024 TARGET COMPENSATION FOR CEO AS PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL COMPENSATION (1) : | FISCAL 2024 AVERAGE TARGET COMPENSATION FOR NEOs AS PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL COMPENSATION: | |
|
|
|
| (1) |
Fiscal 2024 CEO compensation did not have a share-based component due to the timing of Ms. Ardrey’s arrival as new CEO in fiscal 2023. Annual CEO compensation typically includes a stock award component, typically split between fixed and performance-based components. |
HOW WE MAKE EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION DECISIONS
Role of the Talent and Compensation Committee . The Committee is responsible to the Board for overseeing the development and administration of our compensation programs. The Committee is comprised of four independent directors and is responsible for the review and approval of all aspects of executive compensation, including the approval of compensation packages of newly hired executive officers. The Committee is supported in its work by the CEO, the Chief Administrative Legal Officer, the Vice President of Human Resources, their staff, and independent executive compensation consultants, as needed.
Role of Management . The Committee generally seeks input from our CEO when discussing the performance and compensation levels of the other NEOs. The Committee also works with our CEO, our Chief Financial Officer, our Chief Administrative Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary, and our Vice President of Human Resources in evaluating the financial, accounting, tax, and retention implications of our various compensation programs. Neither Ms. Ardrey, nor any of our other executives participates in deliberations relating directly to her or his own compensation.
Role of Compensation Consultants. The Committee has utilized compensation consultants in assisting with benchmarking, regulatory changes and updates, and analysis and design of the Company’s compensation program. The Committee also used consultants to help review the Company’s compensation peer group. The Committee has utilized Pearl Meyer Partners, LLC (“Pearl Meyer”) and Equilar, Inc. (“Equilar”) as executive compensation consultants. Both Pearl Meyer and Equilar were retained by the Committee, and the Committee may replace them or hire additional consultants at any time. Our Committee makes all final decisions regarding the compensation of our NEOs.
Role of Shareholders: Response to Advisory Vote on Executive Compensation . At the 2023 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, approximately 88% of the votes cast on the advisory vote on our executive compensation program were in support of the compensation paid to the NEOs. The Committee took these results into account in formulating its executive compensation plans moving forward for fiscal 2024. In light of the support from shareholders, in setting fiscal 2024 compensation the Committee materially maintained the compensation program currently in place.
| 20 ● 2024 Proxy Statement | VERA BRADLEY, INC. |
Table of Contents
Executive Compensation
Peer Group and Benchmarking . At least annually, the Committee utilizes peer group and industry third-party benchmarking data to ensure that the NEOs and other officers are appropriately compensated. As part of analyzing peer group data, the Committee conducts a review of its identified peer group used for executive compensation comparisons to ensure all peer companies remain an appropriate basis for comparison.
In selecting peer companies, the Committee aims to identify companies with similar characteristics to our Company. Specifically, we look for peer group companies that are in the retail industry or another related industry, have a strong consumer brand, are profitable, and are of a comparable size (based principally on revenue and market capitalization).
| FISCAL 2024 COMPENSATION PEER GROUP | ||||
| The Buckle, Inc. | Boot Barn, Inc. | J. Jill. Inc. | ||
| Duluth Holdings | Land’s End, Inc. | Delta Apparel Group | ||
|
Vince Holding Corp. |
Build-a-Bear Workshop, Inc. | Zumiez Inc. | ||
| Movado Group, Inc. | Oxford Industries, Inc. | YETI, Holdings, Inc. | ||
| Destination XL Group, Inc. | Tilly’s Inc. | Crocs, Inc. | ||
ELEMENTS OF OUR EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION PROGRAM IN FISCAL 2024
HIGHLIGHTS
Recent highlights of our executive compensation program include:
| • |
In addition to financial goals, the annual incentive for fiscal 2024 included key strategic objectives, each with its own objective metric tied to our long-term strategic plan and intended to focus the team on making progress towards the Company’s long-term strategic plan. |
| • |
The Company achieved above threshold levels for the Vera Bradley Brand and Enterprise net revenue metrics and below threshold for the Pura Vida Brand net revenue metric. Vera Bradley Brand and Enterprise net operating income each met threshold levels, while Pura Vida Brand net operating income was below threshold level. Therefore, there were payouts for Vera Bradley Brand and Enterprise net revenue and operating income, while there were no payouts for Pura Vida Brand net revenue or operating income as it related to these elements of the Company’s short-term incentive plans. |
| • |
The actual achievement for individual tranches associated with the fiscal 2024 performance year for the performance-based units of the Company’s Long-Term Incentive Plan was 200% due to achieving adjusted EPS of $0.55, which was a 129% improvement from fiscal 2023. |
| • |
All stock equity grants under our long-term incentive program vest over a three-year period in order to incentivize retention and long-range performance. |
BASE SALARY
Purposes of Base Salary . We utilize base salary as the primary means of providing compensation for performing the essential elements of an executive’s job. Base salaries are intended to provide a certain level of fixed compensation commensurate with an executive’s position, responsibilities, tenure, historical compensation, retention risk, and current and expected future contributions to the Company. In particular, we set base salaries keeping in mind that we are often recruiting from a fashion and retail marketplace that is not typically found in the Company’s hometown of Fort Wayne, Indiana. With these principles in mind, base salaries are reviewed at least annually by our Committee and may be adjusted from time to time based on the results of this review.
Setting Fiscal 2024 Base Salary . In fiscal 2024, the Committee provided for base salary increases for the NEOs ranging from 2.5% to 7.7%. Ms. Ardrey’s base salary was established in accordance with her Employment Agreement.
The Committee approved base salary increases based on analysis of the median peer group and industry benchmarking base salary information, performance and/or changes in NEO responsibilities, and to align with the market and the Company’s compensation philosophy.
| VERA BRADLEY, INC. | 2024 Proxy Statement ● 21 |
Table of Contents
Executive Compensation
The following table shows annual base salary rates for each of our NEOs at the end of fiscal 2023 and fiscal 2024. Amounts represent a base rate of pay; actual earnings during a fiscal year may vary based upon a variety of factors, including the number of weeks in the fiscal year.
FISCAL 2024 BASE SALARY CHANGES
|
FISCAL 2023 BASE
SALARY RATE |
FISCAL 2024 BASE
SALARY RATE |
|||||||
|
Jacqueline Ardrey |
$ | 850,000 | $ | 850,000 | ||||
|
Michael Schwindle |
N/A | 525,000 | ||||||
|
Mark C. Dely |
418,000 | 450,000 | ||||||
|
Alison Hiatt |
N/A | 400,000 | ||||||
|
John Enwright |
428,480 | 439,192 | ||||||
ANNUAL INCENTIVE COMPENSATION
Purposes of Annual Incentive. Our annual incentive compensation, in the form of an annual cash payment, is intended to compensate our NEOs for meeting our short-term corporate financial and strategic objectives and to incentivize our NEOs to meet these objectives. Our financial and strategic objectives are intended to build shareholder value, maximize growth and profitability, build a strong brand, and execute against the annual milestones of the long-term strategic plan.
Setting Annual Incentive Compensation Levels . Our objective is generally to be within the competitive range of the peer group median, on average, for annual incentive opportunities of our executive officers, including our NEOs. We consider a range of +/-10% around the market median (50 th percentile) to be competitive but still capable of recognizing differences among executives.
Fiscal 2024 Annual Incentive Performance Metrics . For fiscal 2024, the Committee largely left the compensation
program unchanged from fiscal 2023. The Company utilizes a Brand program and an Enterprise program to reflect the different objectives of the Company and its multiple brands, and to incentivize each NEO on the areas each have the greatest ability to impact for both financial metrics and strategic objectives. The strategic objectives tie back to either the individual Brand or Enterprise objectives, which are updated annually as appropriate. The program applicable to each NEO for fiscal 2024 was as follows:
FISCAL 2024 ANNUAL INCENTIVE PROGRAM
| PROGRAM | ||
|
Jacqueline Ardrey |
Enterprise | |
|
Michael Schwindle |
Enterprise | |
|
Mark C. Dely |
Enterprise | |
|
Alison Hiatt |
Enterprise | |
|
John Enwright |
Enterprise | |
Selecting the Financial Metrics . Consistent with fiscal 2023, revenue and operating income were the financial metrics used for fiscal 2024. The Committee selected net revenue because we believe it is important to our shareholders and to the ultimate performance of the Company. Top line performance, however, must be accompanied by operating performance as well, so operating income was selected as a second performance metric. In the future, the Committee will review the application of other financial performance measures. The Committee typically sets a target level of performance at which the full target bonus can be earned. The Committee also sets a threshold level of performance below which no bonus is earned and a maximum level of performance that results in a maximum bonus. For the Enterprise program, 100% of the financial metrics are based upon Enterprise results.
| 22 ● 2024 Proxy Statement | VERA BRADLEY, INC. |
Table of Contents
Executive Compensation
ENTERPRISE ANNUAL INCENTIVE PLAN STRUCTURE
|
FINANCIAL METRICS |
Weight | Payout by Performance Level as a Percentage of Target Incentive | ||||||||||||||||||
| Threshold | Target | Maximum | ||||||||||||||||||
|
Enterprise Operating Income |
25% | 25% | 100% | 200% | ||||||||||||||||
|
Enterprise Net Revenue |
25% | 25% | 100% | 200% | ||||||||||||||||
|
Total |
50% | |||||||||||||||||||
|
STRATEGIC METRICS |
Weight | Payout by Performance Level as a Percentage of Target Incentive | ||||||||||||||||||
| Met Most | Met All | Exceed | Significantly Exceed | |||||||||||||||||
|
Enterprise Strategic Objectives (1) |
25% | 25% | 100% | 125% | 200% | |||||||||||||||
|
Individual Financial Objectives |
25% | 50% | 100% | 125% | 200% | |||||||||||||||
|
Total |
50% | |||||||||||||||||||
|
TOTAL |
200% | (2) | ||||||||||||||||||
| (1) |
The payout for strategic objectives is capped at 100% in the event that either or both of the operating income or net revenue metrics are not achieved at the threshold performance level or higher. |
| (2) |
Ms. Ardrey’s total annual incentive payout is capped at 200% of her base salary. |
BRAND ANNUAL INCENTIVE PLAN STRUCTURE
|
FINANCIAL METRICS |
Weight | Payout by Performance Level as a Percentage of Target Incentive | ||||||||||||||||||
| Threshold | Target | Maximum | ||||||||||||||||||
|
Brand Operating Income |
20% | 25% | 100% | 200% | ||||||||||||||||
|
Enterprise Operating Income |
10% | 25% | 100% | 200% | ||||||||||||||||
|
Brand Net Revenue |
20% | 25% | 100% | 200% | ||||||||||||||||
|
Total |
50% | |||||||||||||||||||
|
STRATEGIC METRICS |
Weight | Payout by Performance Level as a Percentage of Target Incentive | ||||||||||||||||||
| Met Most | Met All | Exceed | Significantly Exceed | |||||||||||||||||
|
Brand Strategic Objectives (1) |
25% | 25% | 100% | 125% | 200% | |||||||||||||||
|
Individual Financial Objectives |
25% | 50% | 100% | 125% | 200% | |||||||||||||||
|
Total |
50% | |||||||||||||||||||
|
TOTAL |
200% | |||||||||||||||||||
| (1) |
The payout for strategic objectives is capped at 100% in the event that either or both of the operating income or net revenue metrics are not achieved at the threshold performance level or higher. |
| VERA BRADLEY, INC. | 2024 Proxy Statement ● 23 |
Table of Contents
Executive Compensation
Selecting the Strategic Metrics . In fiscal 2024, the Committee once again included corporate-level strategic objectives as a component of the annual incentive compensation program. The Committee believes that this metric is appropriate to incentivize the management team to meet significant strategic objectives key to achieving the Company’s long-term strategic plan. Each strategic objective measure is tied to an objective metric where performance is based on the level of achievement against the metric.
In fiscal 2024 the Vera Bradley Brand corporate strategic goals were as follows:
| • |
Restore Core Product |
| • |
Restore Core Brand |
| • |
Restore Core Customer |
| • |
Balanced Sales Footprint |
| • |
Expense Management |
In fiscal 2024 the Pura Vida Brand corporate strategic goals were as follows:
| • |
Restore Core Product |
| • |
Restore Core Brand |
| • |
Restore Core Customer |
| • |
Drive Repeat Purchases |
| • |
Expense Management |
In fiscal 2024 the Enterprise corporate strategic goals were as follows:
| • |
Drive Stock Price and Shareholder Return |
| • |
Gross Margin Management |
| • |
Talent Management |
| • |
Expense Management |
| • |
ESG Corporate Responsibility |
In addition to these corporate-level strategic goals, the Committee also continued to include a metric for the measurement of personal objectives for each of the NEOs. The Committee believes it is important to provide individual incentive against defined goals at the level of each major business function in order to ensure that the management team is focused equally on execution in each of their areas in order to meet the long-term strategic objectives of the Company. The individual financial objectives varied by individual and department,
but all had clear metrics and measurements and in general were designed to be challenging but achievable.
In the future, the Committee will continue to evaluate both payout levels and performance levels in accordance with business conditions and prevailing market practices.
Fiscal 2024 Annual Incentive Payout. In fiscal 2024, the Vera Bradley Brand adjusted operating income and net revenue were above the threshold performance levels of $10.1 million and $369.8 million, respectively, resulting in payouts for these metrics. Vera Bradley Brand operating income was adjusted to exclude severance charges and certain professional fees.
In fiscal 2024, the Pura Vida Brand adjusted operating income and net revenue were below the threshold performance levels of $6.4 million and $90.6 million, respectfully, resulting in no payout for these metrics. Operating income was adjusted to exclude intangible asset impairment charges, intangible asset amortization, severance charges, and certain professional fees.
In fiscal 2024, the Enterprise adjusted operating income and net revenue were above the threshold performance levels of $16.5 million and $460.3 million, respectfully, resulting in payouts for these metrics. Enterprise operating income was adjusted as previously outlined for the Vera Bradley and Pura Vida Brands.
For financial performance metrics, payout levels are determined using linear interpolation for results falling between the three performance levels.
The Committee determined that the Vera Bradley Brand performance to its strategic goals were achieved at 130%, the Pura Vida Brand strategic objectives were achieved at 60% and the Enterprise strategic objectives were achieved at 140%. These percentages were determined based on metrics identified at the beginning of fiscal 2024 and how the Company performed with respect to each of these metrics.
For the NEOs, the payout for individual objectives was determined based upon achievement of the goals as rated by Ms. Ardrey and the Committee. Mr. Schwindle, Mr. Enwright, Ms. Hiatt, and Mr. Dely met all of their objectives. The Committee determined that Ms. Ardrey performed above expectations for her individual objectives.
| 24 ● 2024 Proxy Statement | VERA BRADLEY, INC. |
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Executive Compensation
The following table sets forth the payout opportunities at each performance level, as well as actual bonus earned as a percentage of base salary:
FISCAL 2024 ANNUAL INCENTIVE PAYOUT AS A
PERCENTAGE OF BASE SALARY
| OPPORTUNITY | ||||||||||||||||
| Threshold | Target | Max | ACTUAL (1) | |||||||||||||
|
Jacqueline Ardrey |
31.3 | % | 100 | % | 200 | % | 127.5 | % | ||||||||
|
Michael Schwindle |
18.8 | % | 60 | % | 120 | % | 72.8 | % | ||||||||
|
Mark C. Dely |
18.8 | % | 60 | % | 120 | % | 72.8 | % | ||||||||
|
Alison Hiatt |
15.6 | % | 50 | % | 100 | % | 60.6 | % | ||||||||
|
John Enwright |
15.6 | % | 50 | % | 100 | % | 60.6 | % | ||||||||
| (1) |
Actual reflected as a percentage of eligible earnings during fiscal 2024. Represents totals for each category. |
LONG-TERM INCENTIVE COMPENSATION
Purposes of Long-Term Incentive Compensation. We grant long-term equity awards under our executive compensation program in order to compete for executive talent and align the interests of our employees, including our NEOs, with those of the Company’s shareholders. These awards are intended to motivate executives by tying a portion of their incentive compensation to the performance of our common stock over the long term and, in turn, also motivate employees to remain with the Company as the value of these awards is intended to increase over time. We believe these awards also serve as motivation for executives to continue to improve the long-term performance of the Company.
Fiscal 2024 Long-Term Incentive Vehicles, Mix, and Grant Size . The fiscal 2024, fiscal 2023, and fiscal 2022 grants to each NEO were made up of 50% performance-based restricted stock units and 50% time-based restricted stock units. The terms of the fiscal 2024, fiscal 2023, and fiscal 2022 grants were similar.
Based on the Committee’s assessment, the following table reflects the fiscal 2024 long-term grant values for the NEOs.
FISCAL 2024 LONG-TERM INCENTIVE GRANTS
|
TARGET
GRANT VALUE |
AS A %
OF BASE SALARY RATE |
% OF GRANT
PERFORMANCE- BASED |
% OF
GRANT TIME- BASED |
|||||||||||||
|
Jacqueline Ardrey |
$ | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | |||||||||||
|
Michael Schwindle (1) |
400,000 | 76.2 | % | 50 | % | 50 | % | |||||||||
|
Mark C. Dely (2) |
275,000 | 61.1 | % | 50 | % | 50 | % | |||||||||
|
Alison Hiatt |
250,000 | 62.5 | % | 50 | % | 50 | % | |||||||||
|
John Enwright |
275,000 | 62.6 | % | 50 | % | 50 | % | |||||||||
| (1) |
Excludes time-based and performance hiring grants of $500,000. |
| (2) |
Excludes time-based and performance-based grants of $115,000 for Mr. Dely for his assumption of additional responsibilities. |
Terms of the Fiscal 2024 Time-Based Restricted Stock Unit “RSU” Grant. The time-based RSUs vest and settle in our common shares, on a one-for-one basis in three equal annual installments on the first, second, and third anniversaries of the date of grant. The applicable award agreement provides that the units vest immediately upon the NEO’s disability (as defined in the Incentive Plan) or death or, provided the NEO remains employed through the effective date, upon a change in control (which is more specifically defined in the award agreement). The units will also vest upon the NEO’s retirement (as defined in the Incentive Plan) on a prorated basis based on service through the retirement date.
Terms of the Fiscal 2024 Performance-Based RSU Grant. The performance-based RSU grant is structured to be earned over three annual performance periods (fiscal 2024, fiscal 2025, and fiscal 2026) and for any earned units to vest and settle in our common shares, on a one-for-one basis in a single tranche on the third anniversary of the date of grant.
The performance-based RSUs granted in fiscal 2024 are divided into three equal tranches of one-third each of the total award and allocated to each of the three fiscal years of the Company ending with fiscal 2026, with each such fiscal year being considered a performance year. Each tranche of performance-based RSUs must be both “earned” and “vested” before it will be settled in the form of the Company’s common shares. Each tranche of
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performance-based RSUs will be deemed earned only if the earnings per share threshold is met in the applicable fiscal year, and each will be deemed vested only if the executive is continuously employed with the Company through the third anniversary of the grant date. For fiscal 2024, threshold and maximum performance levels for the performance-based RSUs were set at 88% and 112%, respectively, of target earnings per share performance and payout levels range from 25% for threshold performance up to 200% for maximum performance.
FISCAL 2024 PERFORMANCE-BASED RSU GRANT –
TRANCHE ONE PERFORMANCE MEASURES
|
PERFORMANCE LEVEL |
EPS GOAL FOR FISCAL 2024 |
SHARES VESTING AS A PERCENTAGE OF TARGET GRANT |
||
|
Threshold |
$0.38 per share | 25% | ||
|
Target |
$0.43 per share | 100% | ||
|
Maximum |
$0.48 per share | 200% | ||
For the second and third tranches of the performance-based RSU grant, target earnings per share goals will be based on a pre-determined percentage increase in earnings per share over the prior year, and threshold and maximum performance levels will again be set at 88% and 112%, respectively, of target earnings per share. In each year, shares vesting as a percentage of the NEO’s target grant will be as set forth in the table above. The Committee will continue to evaluate both payout levels and performance levels in accordance with business conditions and prevailing market practices.
Results of Fiscal 2022 through Fiscal 2024 Performance-Based RSU Cycle. The Company’s Long-Term Incentive Plan Performance-based restricted stock units are earned over a three year period and therefore the discussion below includes discussion over the last three fiscal years. Performance-based restricted stock units granted on April 2, 2021 were subject to a three-year performance period established by the Committee that ended on February 3, 2024, which represents performance periods covered by fiscal 2022, fiscal 2023, and fiscal 2024. The following table shows the target number of restricted stock units granted to each NEO for this period.
FISCAL 2022 PERFORMANCE-BASED RSU GRANTS
|
TARGET GRANT
(NUMBER OF RSUs) |
||||
|
Jacqueline Ardrey |
— | |||
|
Michael Schwindle |
— | |||
|
Mark C. Dely |
14,648 | |||
|
Alison Hiatt |
— | |||
|
John Enwright |
15,869 | |||
The target number of performance-based RSUs was equally divided into three tranches with the first tranche earned based on fiscal 2022 performance (“FY22 Tranche”), the second tranche earned based on fiscal 2023 performance (“FY23 Tranche”), and the third tranche earned based on fiscal 2024 performance (“FY24 Tranche”).
At the time of grant, it was determined that target performance for the FY22 Tranche was established based on the Company’s 2022 target for diluted earnings per share of $0.83, with a maximum performance of $0.93 and a minimum performance of $0.73 per share. Actual fiscal 2022 adjusted earnings per share was $0.66 per share, resulting in a payout of 0% of target. GAAP diluted EPS of $0.52 was adjusted in accordance with the requirements of the incentive plan, for incremental expense associated with the expiration of the GSP tariff relief, intangible asset amortization, and store impairment charges.
For the FY23 Tranche, it was determined that target performance was 110% of actual fiscal 2022 adjusted diluted earnings per share, and for the FY24 Tranche it was determined that target performance was 110% of actual fiscal 2023 adjusted diluted earnings per share.
Adjusted diluted earnings per share for fiscal 2023 of $0.24 fell below the threshold performance level of $0.64 on a comparable basis, resulting in no payout for the FY23 Tranche. GAAP diluted loss per share of $(1.90) was adjusted in accordance with the requirements of the incentive plan, for goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges; inventory adjustments (associated with Pura Vida excess inventory and excess mask products, the exit of certain technology products and the goodMRKT brand, and discounted inventory); purchase order cancellation fees; expenditures associated with leadership changes and cost saving initiatives (severance charges; consulting fees associated with cost savings and strategic initiatives; CEO search fees, sign-on bonus, and relocation fees; certain professional fees associated with leadership changes; former CEO November and December salary expense, and stock-based compensation associated with retirement); intangible asset amortization; and store and right-of-use asset impairment charges.
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Adjusted diluted earnings per share for fiscal 2024 of $0.55 exceeded the maximum performance level of $0.29, resulting in a payout of 200% of target for the FY24 Tranche. GAAP diluted earnings per share of $0.25 was adjusted in accordance with the requirements of the incentive plan for intangible asset impairment charges, the amortization of definite-lived intangible assets, severance charges, and consulting and professional fees primarily associated with strategic initiatives.
Therefore, in total, Mr. Dely earned 9,766 shares pursuant to the FY22, FY23, and FY24 Tranches of the fiscal 2022 grant, respectively. Mr. Enwright’s shares were forfeited upon his separation from the Company in June 2023.
BENEFITS
The NEOs are eligible for the same level and offering of benefits available to other employees. Our benefits, such as our basic health benefits, 401(k) plan, life insurance, paid time off, matching charitable gifts program, and discounts on certain Company products, are intended to provide a stable array of support to our employees and their families throughout various stages of their careers, and these core benefits are provided to all full-time employees. The 401(k) plan allows participants to defer amounts of their annual compensation before taxes, up to the cap set by the Internal Revenue Code, which was $22,500 per person for calendar year 2023 (or $30,000 for employees over age 50). Employees’ elective deferrals are immediately vested and non-forfeitable upon contribution to the 401(k) plan. For fiscal 2024, we provided matching contributions equal to 100% for the first 3% of an employee’s individual contribution and 50% for the next 2% of individual contributions, for a maximum employer match of 4% of individual contributions, subject to certain other limits, including vesting requirements.
AGREEMENTS WITH NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
Ms. Ardrey’s Employment Agreement . Ms. Ardrey’s employment agreement with the Company was effective November 1, 2022 (the “Employment Agreement”). The Employment Agreement will renew automatically for successive one-year periods unless either the Company or Ms. Ardrey gives notice to the other of its or her intention not to renew.
Ms. Ardrey’s annual base salary rate during fiscal 2024 was $850,000. Under her employment agreement, Ms. Ardrey has a target annual fiscal bonus of 100% of
her annual base salary rate, with a maximum annual cash bonus of up to 200% of her annual base salary rate, and she is also eligible for long-term incentive grants.
Ms. Ardrey’s Employment Agreement contains non-compete restrictions. During the period of her employment and for a period of two years following her termination, Ms. Ardrey may not engage in, manage, join or work for (as an employee, consultant, or independent contractor) or permit the use of her name by, or provide financial or other assistance to, any competitor that engages in the design, production, marketing, and retailing of (i) handbags and other bags and related accessories or (ii) accessories such as jewelry, travel and leisure items, and baby clothes and accessories. In order to be treated as a competitor pursuant to Ms. Ardrey’s Employment Agreement, an enterprise would have to have received in the prior fiscal year at least 25% of its revenues from the design, production, marketing and/or retailing of handbags, other bags, and related accessories or more than 50% of its revenues from the combination of the design, production, marketing and/or retailing of handbags, other bags and related accessories, accessories such as jewelry, travel and leisure items, and baby clothes and accessories. Ms. Ardrey’s Employment Agreement also contains customary confidentiality provisions.
For a description of severance benefits that Ms. Ardrey would be entitled to receive under certain circumstances, please see “Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control – CEO.”
COMPENSATION AND RISK
The Committee has evaluated the risk profile of our compensation policies and practices and concluded that they do not motivate imprudent risk taking. In its evaluation, the Committee reviewed our employee compensation structures and noted numerous factors and design elements that manage and mitigate risk without diminishing the incentive nature of the compensation, including a unique and strong corporate culture that attracts passionate and motivated employees who are excited about our products and our brand (as opposed to being motivated by purely financial considerations); a balanced mix between cash and equity and annual and longer-term incentives under our executive compensation program; ownership of our shares by senior management, which aligns their interests with the long-term interests of the Company and our shareholders; reasonable limits on annual incentive awards (as determined by a review of our current business plan); with respect to annual incentive
| VERA BRADLEY, INC. | 2024 Proxy Statement ● 27 |
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awards, a balanced mix of performance measures, linear payouts between target levels and maximum payouts capped in fiscal 2024 at 200% of target for the CEO and other NEOs; and subjective considerations (including a review of individual performance) and discretion in compensation decisions, which limit the influence of formulae or objective factors on excessive risk taking.
The Committee also reviewed our compensation programs for certain design features that may have the potential to encourage excessive risk-taking, including over-weighting towards annual incentives, highly-leveraged payout curves, unreasonable thresholds, and steep payout cliffs at certain performance levels that may encourage short-term business decisions to meet payout thresholds. The Committee concluded that our compensation programs do not include such elements. In addition, the Committee analyzed our overall enterprise risks and how compensation programs may impact individual behavior in a manner that could exacerbate these enterprise risks. In view of these analyses, the Committee concluded that we have a balanced pay and performance program that does not encourage excessive risk-taking that is reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on the Company.
EFFECT OF ACCOUNTING AND TAX TREATMENT ON COMPENSATION DECISIONS
In the review, establishment, and operation of our compensation programs, the Committee considers, among other factors, the anticipated accounting and tax implications to us and our executives. Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code limits the amount of compensation that we may deduct in any one year with respect to our NEOs. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “Tax Act”) generally eliminated the exception that allowed for the deductibility of certain performance-based compensation for covered employees (as defined in the Tax Act). The Committee seeks to maintain flexibility in compensating our executives in a manner designed to promote our corporate goals and therefore we have not adopted a policy requiring all compensation to be deductible. The Committee will continue to evaluate what, if any, changes should be made to the Company’s compensation programs regarding the deductibility of compensation.
| 28 ● 2024 Proxy Statement | VERA BRADLEY, INC. |
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COMPENSATION TABLES
Summary Compensation Table
The table below shows information concerning the annual compensation for services to the Company in all capacities of the Company’s NEOs, and a former NEO, during the last three completed fiscal years, (fiscal year 2024 contained 53 weeks, and fiscal years 2023 and 2022 contained 52 weeks). Information regarding fiscal year 2022 is omitted for Ms. Ardrey and Mr. Dely, because they were not NEOs during the relevant years. Information regarding fiscal years 2023 and 2022 is omitted for Mr. Schwindle and Ms. Hiatt, because they were not NEOs during the relevant years.
|
NAME AND PRINCIPAL POSITION |
FISCAL
YEAR |
SALARY | BONUS |
STOCK
AWARDS (1) |
NON-EQUITY
INCENTIVE PLAN COMPEN- SATION (2) |
ALL OTHER
COMPEN- SATION |
TOTAL
COMPEN- SATION |
|||||||||||||||||||||
|
Jacqueline Ardrey |
2024 | $ | 866,346 | — | — | $ | 1,104,591 | $ | 5,138 | (3) | $ | 1,976,075 | ||||||||||||||||
|
President and CEO, Vera Bradley, Inc. |
2023 | 209,231 | 860,000 | 1,900,006 | — | 163,400 | (4) | 3,132,637 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
Michael Schwindle |
2024 | 393,750 | 200,000 | 899,992 | 286,453 | 18,220 | (5) | 1,798,415 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
Chief Financial Officer, Vera Bradley, Inc. |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Mark C. Dely |
2024 | 451,850 | 250,000 | 389,998 | 328,721 | 14,352 | (6) | 1,434,921 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
Chief Administrative Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary, Vera Bradley, Inc. |
2023 | 416,616 | — | 560,006 | 117,173 | 11,648 | (7) | 1,105,443 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
Alison Hiatt |
2024 | 407,693 | — | 249,999 | 247,164 | 16,119 | (8) | 920,974 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
Chief Marketing Officer, Vera Bradley |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
John Enwright |
2024 | 184,988 | 250,000 | 275,001 | 112,149 | 879,311 | (9) | 1,701,449 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
Former Chief Financial Officer, Vera Bradley, Inc. |
2023 | 427,520 | — | 570,000 | 80,160 | 11,638 | (7) | 1,089,318 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 2022 | 413,846 | — | 324,998 | 141,742 | 11,729 | (7) | 892,315 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| (1) |
Represents the aggregate grant date fair value of RSUs awarded during the fiscal year computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. The grant date fair value of each individual award of RSUs for fiscal 2024 is set forth in the Fiscal 2024 Grants of Plan-Based Awards table below. Additional information regarding the calculation of these values is included in Notes 2 and 8 to our consolidated financial statements. Performance-based awards are reflected at target. If the maximum level of performance-based awards were to be achieved for the awards granted in fiscal 2024, the aggregate grant date fair value would be $1,349,988 for Mr. Schwindle, $412,501 for Mr. Enwright, $584,997 for Mr. Dely; and $374,998 for Ms. Hiatt. |
| (2) |
Represents annual incentive compensation earned during the current fiscal year under the Company’s Annual Incentive Bonus Program and paid in the subsequent fiscal year. |
| (3) |
Represents $3,923 in 401(k) matching contributions made by the Company and $1,215 in other taxable fringe benefits. |
| (4) |
Represents relocation expenses. |
| (5) |
Represents $17,029 in travel stipend and $1,191 in other taxable fringe benefits. |
| (6) |
Represents $13,632 in 401(k) matching contributions made by the Company and $720 in other taxable fringe benefits. |
| (7) |
Represents 401(k) matching contributions made by the Company. |
| (8) |
Represents $15,143 in travel stipend and $976 in other taxable fringe benefits. |
| (9) |
Represents $823,485 in severance, $33,784 in accrued vacation, $11,771 in other taxable fringe benefits, and $10,271 in 401(k) matching contributions made by the Company. |
| VERA BRADLEY, INC. | 2024 Proxy Statement ● 29 |
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Fiscal 2024 Grants of Plan-Based Awards
The following table sets forth information regarding grants of plan-based awards in fiscal 2024. In this table “TRSU” stands for time-based restricted stock unit and “PRSU” stands for performance-based restricted stock unit.
|
ESTIMATED POSSIBLE PAYOUTS
UNDER NON-EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN AWARDS (1) |
ESTIMATED FUTURE PAYOUTS
UNDER EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN AWARDS (2) |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
TYPE OF
AWARD |
GRANT
DATE |
THRESHOLD | TARGET | MAXIMUM | THRESHOLD | TARGET | MAXIMUM |
ALL
OTHER STOCK AWARDS |
GRANT DATE
FAIR VALUE OF STOCK AWARDS (3) |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Jacqueline Ardrey |
Annual Incentive | $ | 270,733 | $ | 866,346 | $ | 1,732,692 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| TRSUs | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| PRSUs | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Michael Schwindle |
Annual Incentive | $ | 100,331 | $ | 321,058 | $ | 642,116 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| TRSUs | May 8, 2023 | 46,904 | $ | 249,998 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| TRSUs | May 8, 2023 | 37,523 | 199,998 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| PRSUs | May 8, 2023 | 11,726 | 46,904 | 93,808 | 249,998 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| PRSUs | May 8, 2023 | 9,380 | 37,523 | 75,046 | 199,998 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Mark C. Dely |
Annual Incentive | $ | 84,722 | $ | 271,110 | $ | 542,220 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| TRSUs | March 31, 2023 | 22,955 | $ | 137,500 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| TRSUs | June 8, 2023 | 9,457 | 57,499 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| PRSUs | March 31, 2023 | 5,739 | 22,955 | 45,910 | 137,500 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| PRSUs | June 8, 2023 | 2,364 | 9,457 | 18,914 | 57,499 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Alison Hiatt |
Annual Incentive | $ | 63,702 | $ | 203,846 | $ | 407,693 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| TRSUs | March 31, 2023 | 20,868 | $ | 124,999 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| PRSUs | March 31, 2023 | 5,217 | 20,868 | 41,736 | 124,999 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
John Enwright |
Annual Incentive | $ | 69,815 | $ | 223,407 | $ | 446,814 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| TRSUs | March 31, 2023 | 22,955 | $ | 137,500 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| PRSUs | March 31, 2023 | 5,739 | 22,955 | 45,910 | 137,500 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (1) |
Awards available under the Company’s fiscal 2024 Annual Incentive Bonus Program. For Ms. Ardrey, Mr. Dely, and Ms. Hiatt, the amounts shown above are based upon fiscal 2024 eligible earnings. Mr. Schwindle and Mr. Enwright’s target possible payout is based on fiscal 2024 eligible earnings had they been with the Company for the entire fiscal year. |
| (2) |
Amounts stated in shares. Awards made under the Incentive Plan to certain employees and directors, including our NEOs. TRSUs vest in three equal annual installments on the first, second, and third anniversaries of the grant date. PRSUs have a three-year cliff-vesting schedule based on continued employment and performance. The performance feature is based on earnings per share growth over the three-year performance period. Vesting would be accelerated in the event of death, disability, or a change in control. See “— Potential Payments on Termination or Change in Control.” If the Company were to declare any cash dividend on its common shares, an equivalent amount per RSU would be credited to an account for each holder and paid to the holder in cash (or forfeited) at the time the shares underlying the RSU are delivered to the holder (or forfeited). Amounts in this account would bear interest at the prime rate reported in the Midwest Edition of The Wall Street Journal from the date of deposit until paid to the holder or forfeited in accordance with the Incentive Plan. |
| (3) |
Represents the grant date fair value of each award computed in accordance with FASB Topic 718. |
| 30 ● 2024 Proxy Statement | VERA BRADLEY, INC. |
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Outstanding Equity Awards at 2024 Fiscal Year-End
The following table sets forth information regarding outstanding equity awards as of February 3, 2024.
| STOCK AWARDS | ||||||||||||||||||
|
RESTRICTED
STOCK UNIT GRANT DATE |
NUMBER OF SHARES
THAT
|
MARKET
SHARES
UNITS OF
HAVE NOT VESTED ($) (2) |
EQUITY
INCENTIVE PLAN AWARDS: NUMBER OF UNEARNED SHARES, UNITS OR OTHER RIGHTS THAT HAVE NOT VESTED (#) (1) |
EQUITY
($) (2) |
||||||||||||||
|
Jacqueline Ardrey |
November 1, 2022 | 386,179 | (3) | $ | 3,027,643 | 386,182 | (4) | $ | 3,027,667 | |||||||||
|
Michael Schwindle |
May 8, 2023 | 140,709 | (5) | 1,103,159 | 112,572 | (4) | 882,564 | |||||||||||
|
Mark Dely |
April 2, 2021 | 14,649 | (6) | 114,848 | — | (7) | — | |||||||||||
| April 1, 2022 | 27,668 | (8) | 216,917 | 13,834 | (4) | 108,459 | ||||||||||||
| December 9, 2022 | 35,537 | (9) | 278,610 | — | (7) | — | ||||||||||||
| March 31, 2023 | 38,257 | (10) | 299,935 | 30,608 | (4) | 239,967 | ||||||||||||
| June 8, 2023 | 15,761 | (11) | 123,566 | 12,610 | (4) | 98,862 | ||||||||||||
|
Alison Hiatt |
March 31, 2023 | 34,778 | (12) | 272,660 | 27,826 | (4) | 218,156 | |||||||||||
|
John Enwright (13) |
April 2, 2021 | — | — | — | — | |||||||||||||
| April 1, 2022 | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||
| December 9, 2022 | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||
| March 31, 2023 | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||
| (1) |
Time-based restricted stock units (TRSUs) vest in three equal annual installments on the first, second, and third anniversaries of the grant date. Performance-based restricted stock units (PRSUs) have a three-year cliff-vesting schedule based on continued employment and performance. The performance feature is based on earnings per share growth over the three-year performance period. See “—Potential Payments on Termination or Change in Control” for details of outstanding awards where vesting would be accelerated in the event of death, disability, retirement, or upon a change in control. |
| (2) |
Based on the closing price of $7.84 of the Company’s common shares on February 2, 2024 (the last trading day prior to the end of the fiscal year) as reported by The NASDAQ Stock Market. |
| (3) |
Includes 193,091 TRSUs and 193,088 PRSUs granted under the Incentive Plan. The first installment of the TRSUs vested November 1, 2023. |
| (4) |
Includes the number of PRSUs subject to incomplete performance years. The shares are reflected at the maximum payout level, or 200% of target. |
| (5) |
Includes 84,427 TRSUs and 56,282 PRSUs granted under the Incentive Plan. |
| (6) |
Includes 4,883 TRSUs and 9,766 PRSUs granted under the Incentive Plan. The first and second installments of the TRSUs vested on April 2, 2022 and April 2, 2023, respectively. |
| (7) |
There are no unearned PRSUs for this award. |
| (8) |
Includes 13,834 TRSUs and 13,834 PRSUs granted under the Incentive Plan. The first installment of the TRSUs vested on April 1, 2023. |
| (9) |
Includes 35,537 TRSUs granted under the Incentive Plan. |
| (10) |
Includes 22,955 TRSUs and 15,302 PRSUs granted under the Incentive Plan. |
| (11) |
Includes 9,457 TRSUs and 6,304 PRSUs granted under the Incentive Plan. |
| (12) |
Includes 20,868 TRSUs and 13,910 PRSUs granted under the Incentive Plan. |
| (13) |
Mr. Enwright left the Company in June 2023; therefore, all unvested TRSUs and PRSUs were forfeited. |
| VERA BRADLEY, INC. | 2024 Proxy Statement ● 31 |
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Executive Compensation
Option Exercises and Shares Vested
We have no outstanding stock options.
The following table shows the number of RSUs which vested for each NEO in fiscal 2024:
|
NUMBER OF SHARES
OR UNITS ACQUIRED ON VESTING (#) |
NET VALUE REALIZED ON VESTING (1) |
|||||||
|
Jacqueline Ardrey |
96,544 | $ | 706,702 | |||||
|
Michael Schwindle |
— | — | ||||||
|
Mark C. Dely |
47,234 | 308,350 | ||||||
|
Alison Hiatt |
— | — | ||||||
|
John Enwright |
31,863 | 188,916 | ||||||
| (1) |
Computed by multiplying the number of shares vested by the Company’s closing stock price the day prior to the scheduled vesting date(s). |
Pension Benefits
Aside from our 401(k) plan, we do not maintain any pension plan or arrangement under which our NEOs are entitled to participate or receive post-retirement benefits.
Nonqualified Deferred Compensation
We do not maintain any nonqualified deferred compensation plan or arrangements under which our NEOs are entitled to participate.
| 32 ● 2024 Proxy Statement | VERA BRADLEY, INC. |
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Executive Compensation
Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control
Severance Benefits. With the exception of Mr. Enwright, the following table shows the value of cash severance benefits that would have been payable to each of our NEOs under arrangements or contracts described below, as well as the value of equity awards that would vest, assuming a termination of employment as of February 3, 2024. For Mr. Enwright, the table reflects actual severance benefits earned based on separation from the Company. In this table “TRSU” stands for time-based restricted stock units and “PRSU” stands for performance-based restricted stock units.
|
TERMINATION
BY COMPANY WITHOUT CAUSE/ BY EXECUTIVE FOR GOOD REASON |
TERMINATION
BY COMPANY FOR CAUSE/ BY EXECUTIVE WITHOUT GOOD REASON |
CHANGE IN
CONTROL TERMINATION |
TERMINATION
FOLLOWING DEATH OR DISABILITY (1) |
|||||||||||||
|
Jacqueline Ardrey |
||||||||||||||||
|
Cash |
$ | 4,504,591 | (2) | — | $ | 6,204,591 | (3) | $ | 1,104,591 | (4) | ||||||
|
COBRA (5) |
— | — | — | — | ||||||||||||
|
Value of unvested shares that would be accelerated (6) |
||||||||||||||||
|
—TRSU |
— | — | 1,513,833 | (7) | 1,513,833 | (7) | ||||||||||
|
—PRSU |
— | — | 3,027,643 | (8) | 1,513,810 | (8) | ||||||||||
|
Other (12) |
16,346 | 16,346 | 66,346 | 16,346 | ||||||||||||
|
Michael Schwindle |
||||||||||||||||
|
Cash |
1,336,453 | (9) | — | 1,756,453 | (10) | 286,453 | (11) | |||||||||
|
COBRA (5) |
20,256 | — | 20,256 | 20,256 | ||||||||||||
|
Value of unvested shares that would be accelerated (6) |
||||||||||||||||
|
—TRSU |
— | — | 661,908 | (7) | 661,908 | (7) | ||||||||||
|
—PRSU |
— | — | 882,533 | (8) | 441,251 | (8) | ||||||||||
|
Other (12) |
9,591 | 9,591 | 39,591 | 9,591 | ||||||||||||
|
Mark C. Dely |
||||||||||||||||
|
Cash |
1,228,721 | (9) | — | 1,588,721 | (10) | 328,721 | (11) | |||||||||
|
COBRA (5) |
13,804 | — | 13,804 | 13,804 | ||||||||||||
|
Value of unvested shares that would be accelerated (6) |
||||||||||||||||
|
—TRSU |
— | — | 679,461 | (7) | 679,461 | (7) | ||||||||||
|
—PRSU |
— | — | 578,059 | (8) | 354,415 | (8) | ||||||||||
|
Other (12) |
11,250 | 11,250 | 41,250 | 11,250 | ||||||||||||
|
Alison Hiatt |
||||||||||||||||
|
Cash |
997,164 | (9) | — | 1,297,164 | (10) | 247,164 | (11) | |||||||||
|
COBRA (5) |
12,339 | — | 12,339 | 12,339 | ||||||||||||
|
Value of unvested shares that would be accelerated (6) |
||||||||||||||||
|
TRSU |
— | — | 163,605 | (7) | 163,605 | (7) | ||||||||||
|
PRSU |
— | — | 218,132 | (8) | 109,054 | (8) | ||||||||||
|
Other (12) |
7,308 | 7,308 | 37,308 | 7,308 | ||||||||||||
|
John Enwright (13) |
||||||||||||||||
|
Cash |
935,634 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||
|
COBRA |
20,256 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||
|
Value of unvested shares that would be accelerated (6) |
||||||||||||||||
|
—TRSU |
— | — | — | — | ||||||||||||
|
—PRSU |
— | — | — | — | ||||||||||||
|
Other |
33,784 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||
| (1) |
As none of the NEOs met or exceeded the age of 65, the normal retirement age of the Company, as of February 3, 2024, severance benefits due to retirement were excluded. |
| (2) |
Pursuant to her employment agreement, upon a termination by the Company without cause or by Ms. Ardrey for good reason, she is entitled to a cash payment equal to any bonus for the prior fiscal year which has been earned but is unpaid, a lump sum payment equal to two times the sum of her annual base salary rate plus her target bonus in the year of termination, and a pro rata portion of the amount of bonus that she would have received for the year in which her employment terminated. |
| (3) |
Pursuant to her employment agreement, upon a termination in anticipation of, upon or within 24 months following a change in control, Ms. Ardrey is entitled to a cash payment equal to any bonus for the prior fiscal year which has been earned but is unpaid, a lump sum payment equal to three times the sum of her annual base salary rate plus her target bonus in the year of termination and a pro rata portion of the amount of bonus that she would have received for the year in which her employment terminated. |
| (4) |
Pursuant to her employment agreement, upon a termination for death or disability, Ms. Ardrey is entitled to a cash payment equal to any bonus for the current fiscal year which has been earned but is unpaid. |
| (5) |
COBRA continuation coverage reflects monthly payments made by the Company for a period of 18 months in the case of Ms. Ardrey and 12 months in the case of the other NEOs and is based upon coverage elections in place as of February 3, 2024. This amount assumes the NEO elects COBRA coverage and is eligible to participate in COBRA for the payment period. |
| VERA BRADLEY, INC. | 2024 Proxy Statement ● 33 |
Table of Contents
Executive Compensation
| (6) |
Based on the closing price of $7.84 of the Company’s common shares on February 2, 2024 (the last trading day prior to the end of the fiscal year) as reported by The NASDAQ Stock Market. |
| (7) |
Figure includes grants of TRSUs which would vest in the event of death, disability, or upon a change in control. |
| (8) |
Figure includes grants of PRSUs which would vest in the event of death, disability, or upon a change in control. For completed performance years, the number of shares reflects earned shares based on actual performance to goal. For incomplete performance years, upon a change in control, the shares above are reflected at target. In the event of death or disability, the grants would be prorated based on the number of full fiscal months in which the executive provided service during the performance period. |
| (9) |
Pursuant to the Severance Plan (as described below), upon a termination by the Company without cause or by the executive for good reason, he or she is entitled to a cash payment equal to a pro rata portion of the amount of bonus that he or she would have received for the year in which his or her employment terminated, and a lump sum payment equal to one and one-quarter times the sum of his or her annual base salary rate plus target bonus in the year of termination. For purposes of this table, the pro rata bonus has been assumed at the actual fiscal 2024 bonus payout. |
| (10) |
Pursuant to the severance plan, upon a termination in anticipation of, upon or within 24 months following a change in control, the executive is entitled to a cash payment equal to any bonus for the prior fiscal year which has been earned but is unpaid, a lump sum payment equal to one and three-quarters times the sum of his or her annual base salary rate plus target bonus in the year of termination, and a payment equal to his or her target bonus in the year of termination prorated for the number of weeks the executive was employed for the fiscal year. For purposes of this table, the current year bonus has been assumed at the actual fiscal 2024 bonus payout. |
| (11) |
Pursuant to the severance plan, upon a termination for death or disability, the executive or his or her estate is entitled to a cash payment equal to a pro rata portion of the amount of bonus that he or she would have received for the year in which his or her employment terminated. For purposes of this table, the current year bonus has been assumed at the actual fiscal 2024 bonus payout. |
| (12) |
Figure includes accrued vacation of 40 hours for Ms. Ardrey, 38 hours for Mr. Schwindle, 160 hours for Mr. Enwright, 52 hours for Mr. Dely, and 38 hours for Ms. Hiatt. In the event of a change in control, this amount also includes a maximum of $50,000 of outplacement services for Ms. Ardrey and $30,000 for all other NEOs. |
| (13) |
Mr. Enwright’s employment from the Company was terminated on June 30, 2023 and the figures presented represent actual benefits received. His cash severance payment was $823,485, a pro rata portion of the amount of the annual bonus, as a result of Mr. Enwright’s termination date occurring after the last day of the first fiscal quarter, was $112,149, and his accrued vacation payment was $33,784. The value of Mr. Enwright’s COBRA benefit was $20,256 for 12 months of his termination date. |
| 34 ● 2024 Proxy Statement | VERA BRADLEY, INC. |
Table of Contents
Executive Compensation
SEVERANCE AGREEMENTS AND ARRANGEMENTS
Chief Executive Officer . Under her Employment Agreement, if the Company terminates Ms. Ardrey’s employment without cause or Ms. Ardrey terminates her employment for good reason (each as defined in the Employment Agreement), Ms. Ardrey will be entitled to (i) any bonus earned in the fiscal year prior to the employment termination that has not yet been paid, (ii) a pro rata portion of the amount of bonus, if any, that he would have received for the year in which his employment terminated; (iii) a lump sum payment equal to two times the sum of her (a) annual base salary rate and (b) target bonus for the fiscal year of termination; (iv) immediate accelerated full vesting of the time-based RSUs under the Sign-On Award and immediate accelerated vesting of the time-based vesting applicable to the performance-based portion of the RSUs under the Sign-On Award pending satisfaction of the performance vesting criteria, as well as full payment of the Sign-On Bonus; and (vi) monthly cash reimbursement of COBRA premiums for a period of eighteen months. If the Company terminates Ms. Ardrey’s employment without cause or Ms. Ardrey terminates her employment for good reason and such termination is within 24 months after a change in control of the Company, Ms. Ardrey will receive, in addition to the payments and benefits described in the preceding sentence, an additional lump sum payment equal to the sum of her (a) annual base salary rate and (b) target bonus for the fiscal year of termination, in exchange for her continued compliance with the restrictive covenants set forth in the Employment Agreement after the change in control and reimbursement for outplacement assistance up to a maximum amount of $50,000. If the payments and benefits to Ms. Ardrey under the Employment Agreement, together with all other amounts payable to her following a change in control (the “Total Payments”), would be subject to an excise tax under the provisions of Code Section 4999 (the “Excise Tax”), then Ms. Ardrey will receive either (i) the Total Payments or (ii) the Total Payments as reduced so that the amount of the Total Payments (after reduction) is $1.00 less than the amount that would cause the payments to be subject to the Excise Tax; whichever of the two would provide her with a greater after-tax value of amounts received.
If Ms. Ardrey’s employment is terminated by death or disability, Ms. Ardrey or her estate will be entitled to: (i) any bonus that has been earned but not paid; (ii) a prorated bonus, if any, Ms. Ardrey would have received for the year in which her employment terminated; (iii) the Sign-On Bonus and the Sign-On Award; and (iv) in the case of termination due to disability, reimbursements of COBRA premiums.
Severance Plan. On May 21, 2014, the Committee adopted the Vera Bradley, Inc. 2014 Executive Severance Plan (the “Severance Plan”). The Severance Plan was amended on May 30, 2018 to remove the reference to Executive Vice President and Senior Vice President position levels and replacing it with an executive officer level only. With the exception of Ms. Ardrey, all NEOs are participants in the Severance Plan, in addition to other officers of the Company.
Under the Severance Plan, if the Company terminates a participant’s employment without cause or the participant terminates his or her employment for good reason (each as defined in the Severance Plan), the participant will be entitled to (i) any bonus earned in the fiscal year prior to the employment termination that has not yet been paid; (ii) a pro rata portion of the amount of the target bonus (as defined in the Severance Plan), if any, that he or she would have received for the year in which his or her employment terminated; (iii) a lump sum payment equal to one and one-quarter times the sum of his or her (a) annual base salary rate and (b) target bonus for the fiscal year of termination; and (v) monthly cash reimbursement of COBRA premiums for a period of twelve months.
If the Company terminates a participant’s employment without cause or a participant terminates his or her employment for good reason and such termination is within 24 months after a change in control (as defined in the Severance Plan) of the Company, the participant will receive, (i) any bonus earned in the fiscal year prior to the employment termination that has not yet been paid; (ii) a pro rata portion of the target bonus for the year in which his or her employment terminated; (iii) a lump sum payment equal to one and three-quarter times the sum of his or her (a) annual base salary rate and (b) target bonus for the fiscal year of termination; and (v) monthly cash reimbursement of COBRA premiums for a period of twelve months.
If a participant’s employment is terminated by death or disability, the participant or his or her estate will be entitled to receive (i) any bonus earned in the fiscal year prior to the employment termination that has not yet been paid; (ii) a pro rata portion of the amount of bonus (as defined in the Severance Plan), if any, that he or she would have received for the year in which his or her employment terminated; and (iii) in the case of termination due to disability, monthly cash reimbursement of COBRA premiums for a period of twelve months.
| VERA BRADLEY, INC. | 2024 Proxy Statement ● 35 |
Table of Contents
Executive Compensation
The Severance Plan contains customary non-competition and confidentiality provisions. During the period of each participant’s employment and for a period of one year following termination of employment for any reason, the participants may not associate, directly or indirectly, as an employee, officer, director, agent, partner, owner, stockholder, representative, consultant, or vendor with, for or on behalf of any competitor (as defined below), unless the Committee has approved such an association. For purposes of the Severance Plan, the term “competitor” means any entity, company, enterprise, or group which engages in the sale of duffel bags, backpacks, totes, or handbags and whose annual sales revenue is less than three hundred million dollars or those added to a list which the Committee reviews biannually. In addition, participants may not solicit or accept if offered the services of any person who is a then-current employee of the Company (or was an employee of the Company during the year preceding such solicitation) to terminate employment or an engagement with the Company, not including any general, non-targeted advertising or agree to hire any then-current employee (or an individual who was an employee of the Company during the year preceding such hire) of the Company into employment with the participant or any company, individual or other entity.
Treatment of Equity Awards
Grants under the 2020 Equity and Incentive Plans
Generally. Except in the case of a change in control or the executive’s death, disability, or retirement, upon an executive’s termination in service from the Company all unearned and unvested grants of both time-based and performance-based RSUs will be forfeited.
Change in Control. Under the terms of the grant agreements, all unvested performance-based RSUs will vest in the event of a change in control. With respect to performance years that have been completed at the time of a change in control, unvested performance-based RSUs will be earned and vested to the extent of actual performance for such performance year. With respect to performance years that have not been completed at the time of a change in control, performance-based RSUs will be deemed to be earned at the target level, with any such earned units becoming fully vested.
With respect to time-based RSUs, upon a change in control that portion of any outstanding award that is not yet vested as of the date of the change in control will become immediately and fully vested and paid immediately prior to the change in control.
The Incentive Plan defines a “change in control” to mean the occurrence of any one or more of the following: (a) the acquisition of ownership, directly or indirectly, beneficially or of record, by any Person or group (within the meaning of the Exchange Act and the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission as in effect on the date of the award), other than: (i) Barbara Baekgaard, Patricia Miller, Michael Ray and Kim Colby and their respective heirs and descendants and any trust established for their benefit; (ii) the Company or a corporation owned directly or indirectly by the shareholders of the Company in substantially the same proportions as their ownership of stock of the Company; or (iii) any employee benefit plan (or related trust) sponsored or maintained by the Company or any of its affiliates, of securities of the Company representing more than twenty-five percent (25%) of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities; (b) the occupation of a majority of the seats (other than vacant seats) on the board of directors by persons who were neither (i) nominated by the board nor (ii) appointed by directors so nominated; or (c) the consummation of (i) an agreement for the sale or disposition of all or substantially all of the Company’s assets or (ii) a merger, consolidation, or reorganization of the Company with or involving any other corporation, other than a merger, consolidation or reorganization that results in the voting securities of the Company outstanding immediately prior thereto continuing to represent (either by remaining outstanding or by being converted into voting securities of the surviving entity) at least fifty percent (50%) of the combined voting power of the voting securities of the Company (or such surviving entity) outstanding immediately after such merger, consolidation or reorganization.
Death or Disability. Under the terms of the grant agreements, all unvested performance-based RSUs will vest in the event that an executive’s service with the Company terminates as a result of death or disability during the performance period, (i) with respect to performance years that have been completed at the time of death or disability, each tranche will be earned only to the extent of actual performance in the performance year; and (ii) with respect to performance years that have not been completed at the time of death or disability, each tranche will be deemed to be earned based on the “target” level of performance for such performance year, but prorated based on the number of full fiscal months in which the executive provided service during the performance period.
With respect to time-based RSUs, in the event of the executive’s death or disability, any portion of any
| 36 ● 2024 Proxy Statement | VERA BRADLEY, INC. |
Table of Contents
Executive Compensation
outstanding award that is not yet vested as of the date of death or disability shall become immediately and fully vested.
The Incentive Plan states that “disability” may be defined in any employment, consulting, or other agreement between the Company and the executive or, in the absence of such an agreement, “disability” will mean (i) any permanent physical or mental incapacity or disability rendering the Participant unable or unfit to perform effectively the duties and obligations of the executive’s service or (ii) any illness, accident, injury, physical or mental incapacity or other disability, which condition is expected to be permanent or long-lasting and has rendered the executive unable or unfit to perform effectively the duties and obligations of the Participant’s service for a period of at least 180 days in any twelve-consecutive month period (in either case, as determined in the good faith judgment of the Committee). There are no outstanding employment, consulting or other agreements between the Company and any executive which otherwise define the term “disability.”
Retirement. Under the terms of the grant agreements, all unvested performance-based RSUs will vest in the event that an executive’s service with the Company terminates as a result of retirement during the performance period, (i) with respect to performance
years that have been completed at the time of retirement, each tranche will be earned only to the extent of actual performance in the performance year; and (ii) with respect to performance years that have not been completed at the time of retirement, each tranche will be deemed to be earned based on the “target” level of performance for such performance year, but prorated based on the number of full fiscal months in which the executive provided service during the performance period.
With respect to time-based RSUs, in the event of the executive’s retirement, any portion of any outstanding award that is not yet vested as of the date of retirement shall become immediately and fully vested but prorated based on the number of full fiscal months in which the executive provided service.
The Incentive Plan states that “retirement” means a termination of service on or after reaching the age established by the Company as the normal retirement age in any unexpired employment, consulting or other agreement between the executive and the Company, or, if different, a qualified retirement plan sponsored by the Company. There are no outstanding employment, consulting, or other agreements between the Company and any executive which otherwise define the term “retirement.”
| VERA BRADLEY, INC. | 2024 Proxy Statement ● 37 |
Table of Contents
Pay Ratio Disclosure
PAY RATIO DISCLOSURE
In August 2015, the SEC adopted a rule mandated by section 953(b) of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act that requires most registrants to disclose the ratio of the total annual compensation of their principal executive officer (“PEO”) to the total annual compensation of their median employee. For Ms. Ardrey’s compensation, we utilized her salary and incentive compensation for fiscal 2024 including the stock awards and all other compensation disclosed in the summary compensation table.
In determining the median employee, we included employees other than the PEO who were employed as of December 31, 2021, which is within three months of the Company’s fiscal 2022 year end. There were no changes in the employee population or overall compensation arrangements that we believe would significantly impact the pay ratio disclosure.
In calculating the median employee, we:
| • |
Used gross compensation as reported on each employee’s Form W-2 for calendar year 2021; |
| • |
Annualized salaries for part-time and full-time employees who were not employed for the entire 2021 calendar year (but did not annualize temporary and seasonal employees); |
| • |
Excluded health care benefits; and |
| • |
Excluded employees at non-U.S. locations, which consisted of approximately 25 employees as of the end of calendar year 2021 and represented only approximately 1% of total employees. |
Based on our calculations, the median employee was a part-time retail store associate with total annual compensation of $8,884 (calculated under Item 402(c)(2)(x) of Regulation S-K) during fiscal 2024. The total compensation during fiscal 2024 for Ms. Ardrey was $1,976,075 which resulted in a ratio of the PEO compensation to the median employee compensation of 222 to 1.
As an alternative to the SEC required pay ratio, and to provide a look at a pay ratio of PEO compensation based on full-time employment, we annualized the median employee’s compensation and calculated another pay ratio. We did this by determining an effective hourly rate based on the total annual compensation and divided by the hours worked. We then multiplied the hourly rate by 2,080 hours and added any incentive compensation to approximate what the median employee would have earned if they worked full-time for the year. This annualized amount was $37,672. This resulted in a pay ratio of PEO compensation to the median employee compensation of 52 to 1. These ratios are supplemental and voluntarily provided. These ratios should not be used as a substitute for, or in isolation from, the pay ratio calculated in accordance with the rule adopted by the SEC.
The pay ratio reported by other companies may not be comparable to the pay ratio reported by us, as the method, assumptions, adjustments, or estimates used to calculate the median employee may be different from those used by us. In addition, other companies may have different employment and compensation practices than we do.
| 38 ● 2024 Proxy Statement | VERA BRADLEY, INC. |
Table of Contents
|
Value of Initial Fixed
$100 investment based on: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Fiscal Year
|
Summary
Compensation Table Total for PEO, Ms. Ardrey |
Compensation
Actually Paid (“CAP”) to PEO, Ms. Ardrey |
Summary
Compensation Table Total for PEO, Mr. Wallstrom |
Compensation
Actually Paid (“CAP”) to PEO, Mr. Wallstrom |
Average
Summary Compensation Table Total for
Non-PEO
NEOs
(1)
|
Average
Compensation Actually Paid (“CAP”) to
Non-PEO
NEOs
(1)
|
Total
Shareholder Return (“TSR”) |
Peer Group
Total Shareholder Return
(2)
|
GAAP
Net (Loss) Income ($ in millions)
(3)
|
EPS |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
2024
|
$
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
N/A
|
|
|
N/A
|
|
$
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
(4)
|
||||||||||
|
2023
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(
|
|
|
|
(5)
|
||||||||||
|
2022
|
|
N/A
|
|
|
N/A
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(6)
|
||||||||||
|
(1)
|
non-PEO
NEOs include the following for each of the fiscal years presented: fiscal 2024: Mr. Schwindle, Mr. Enwright, Mr. Dely, and Ms. Hiatt; fiscal 2023: Mr. Enwright, Mr. Dely, Mr. Hull, and Mr. Korney; fiscal 2022: Mr. Enwright, Mr. Hull, Beatrice Mac Cabe, and Mary Beth Trypus.
|
|
(2)
|
|
|
(3)
|
Refer to the Financial Results within the Proxy Summary of this document for an explanation of items impacting comparability of the GAAP net (loss) income for each of the years presented.
|
|
(4)
|
During fiscal 2024, Vera Bradley, Inc. GAAP diluted EPS of $
impacted by $
|
|
(5)
|
During fiscal 2023, GAAP loss per share of $(
after-tax
charges, or approximately $
right-of-use
sign-on
bonus and relocation expenses; and $
|
|
(6)
|
During fiscal 2022, GAAP diluted EPS of $
after-tax
charges, or approximately $
|
|
Fiscal Year
|
SCT Total for
PEO, Ms. Ardrey |
Less: Grant
Date Fair Value of Equity Awards in SCT |
Plus: Year-End
Fair Value of Outstanding and Unvested Equity Awards Granted in Fiscal Year |
Plus: Fair Value
of Equity Awards Vested and Granted During the Year |
Plus (Less):
Change in Fair Value of Outstanding and Unvested Equity Awards Granted in Prior Years |
Plus (Less):
Change in Fair Value from the Prior Year for Equity Awards Granted in Prior Year that Vested |
Less: Fair
Value from the Prior Year for Equity Awards Forfeited |
Total—CAP
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
2024
|
$
|
|
|
$
|
—
|
|
$
|
—
|
|
$
|
—
|
|
$
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
$
|
—
|
|
$
|
|
|
||||||||
|
2023
|
|
|
|
|
(
|
|
|
|
|
$
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
|
||||||||
|
VERA BRADLEY, INC.
|
2024 Proxy Statement
●
39
|
|
Fiscal Year
|
SCT Total for
PEO, Mr. Wallstrom |
Less: Grant
Date Fair Value of Equity Awards in SCT |
Plus: Year-End
Fair Value of Outstanding and Unvested Equity Awards Granted in Fiscal Year |
Plus: Fair Value
of Equity Awards Vested and Granted During the Year |
Plus (Less):
Change in Fair Value of Outstanding and Unvested Equity Awards Granted in Prior Years |
Plus (Less):
Change in Fair Value from the Prior Year for Equity Awards Granted in Prior Year that Vested |
Less: Fair
Value from the Prior Year for Equity Awards Forfeited |
Total—CAP
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
2023
|
$
|
|
|
$
|
(
|
|
$
|
|
|
$
|
—
|
|
$
|
(
|
|
$
|
(
|
|
$
|
(
|
|
$
|
|
|
||||||||
|
2022
|
|
|
|
|
(
|
|
|
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
(
|
|
|
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
|
||||||||
|
Fiscal Year
|
SCT Total for
NEOs |
Less: Grant
Date Fair Value of Equity Awards in SCT |
Plus: Year-End
Fair Value of Outstanding and Unvested Equity Awards Granted in Fiscal Year |
Plus: Fair Value
of Equity Awards Vested and Granted During the Year |
Plus (Less):
Change in Fair Value of Outstanding and Unvested Equity Awards Granted in Prior Years |
Plus (Less):
Change in Fair Value from the Prior Year for Equity Awards Granted in Prior Year that Vested |
Less: Fair
Value from the Prior Year for Equity Awards Forfeited |
Total—CAP
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
2024
|
$
|
|
|
$
|
(
|
|
$
|
|
|
$
|
—
|
|
$
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
$
|
(
|
|
$
|
|
|
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40
●
2024 Proxy Statement
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VERA BRADLEY, INC.
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VERA BRADLEY, INC.
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2024 Proxy Statement
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41
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Table of Contents
Questions and Answers About the Proxy Materials and the 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE PROXY MATERIALS AND THE 2024 ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
Why am I receiving these materials?
We are providing these proxy materials to you in connection with the solicitation, by the Board of Directors of Vera Bradley, Inc. (we, us, the “Company,” or “Vera Bradley”), of proxies to be voted at the Company’s 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and at any adjournments or postponements of the meeting. The Annual Meeting is scheduled to be held on Thursday, May 30, 2024 beginning at 8:00 a.m., Central Time, at the Seneca Lounge, The Ritz-Carlton, Water Tower Place, 160 East Pearson Street, Chicago, IL, 60611. As a shareholder, you are invited to attend the Annual Meeting and are entitled and requested to vote on the proposals described in this Proxy Statement. This Proxy Statement and the accompanying proxy card are being mailed to shareholders starting on or about April 26, 2024. The mailing address of the Company’s principal executive offices is 12420 Stonebridge Road, Roanoke, Indiana 46783.
What proposals will be voted on at the Annual Meeting?
Three proposals are scheduled to be voted on at the Annual Meeting:
| • |
The election of nine directors to the Board of Directors for a one-year term |
| • |
The ratification of the appointment of Deloitte Touche LLP (“Deloitte”) as our independent registered public accounting firm for fiscal 2025; and |
| • |
The approval, on an advisory basis, of the compensation of our named executive officers (“NEOs”). |
Our Board of Directors is not aware of any other matter that will be presented at the Annual Meeting. If any other matter is properly presented at the Annual Meeting, the persons named on your proxy will, in the absence of your instructions to the contrary, vote the shares for which such persons have voting authority in accordance with their discretion on the matter.
What are the Board of Directors’ voting recommendations?
The Company’s Board of Directors recommends that you vote your shares:
| • |
“ FOR ” the election of each of the director nominees to the Board of Directors |
| • |
“ FOR ” the ratification of the appointment of Deloitte as our independent registered public accounting firm for fiscal 2025; and |
| • |
“ FOR ” approval of the compensation of the NEOs. |
Who is entitled to vote?
Only holders of record of our common shares at the close of business on April 3, 2024 (the “Record Date”), will be entitled to notice of and to vote at the Annual Meeting or at any postponements or adjournments thereof. If you hold your shares in “street name” and wish to vote your shares in person at the Annual Meeting, you must obtain a legal proxy from your broker, bank or other nominee (who is the shareholder of record), giving you the right to vote the shares; otherwise, your broker, bank or other nominee will vote for you pursuant to voting instructions provided by you, if any, and may vote only on routine matters. On the Record Date, 30,756,999 common shares were issued and outstanding. Each common share is entitled to one vote on each matter presented at the Annual Meeting.
What do I need to do now?
Please carefully consider the information in this Proxy Statement and respond as soon as possible so that your shares will be represented at the meeting. You can respond by following the instructions for granting a proxy to vote on the proxy card or, for shares held by your broker, bank, or other nominee on the voting instruction card that your broker, bank, or other nominee provides to you. Alternatively, you may attend the Annual Meeting and vote your shares in person, in which case, only your in-person votes will count. Remember that you will need to obtain a legal proxy from your bank, broker, or nominee if your shares are held in “street name” and you wish to vote in person at the Annual Meeting.
Do I need to attend the meeting?
No. You may authorize your shares to be voted by following the instructions on the proxy card or, for shares held by your broker, bank, or other nominee on the voting instruction card that your broker or other nominee provides to you.
| 42 ● 2024 Proxy Statement | VERA BRADLEY, INC. |
Table of Contents
Questions and Answers About the Proxy Materials and the 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders
If I wish to attend the meeting, what identification must I show to attend?
All shareholders should bring a driver’s license, passport, or other form of government-issued identification to verify their identities. In addition:
| • |
If your shares are held through a broker, bank, or other nominee (known as holding your shares in “street name”), you will need to bring either (1) a letter from your broker, bank, or other nominee stating that you held the Company’s shares through that institution as of the Record Date or (2) a copy of the notice of Annual Meeting document you received in the mail. |
If you are a registered shareholder (meaning, your shares are held directly with the Company’s transfer agent), you do not need anything additional because we can check your name against the list of registered shareholders at the door; however, it is a good idea to bring this notice of Annual Meeting document you received in the mail. Shareholders whose shares are held jointly or through a company, group, or other institution may bring one other person with them to attend the meeting. Please understand that, for security reasons, we cannot admit to the meeting people who lack the proper identification.
How do I vote shares that are held by my broker, bank, or other nominee?
If you have shares held by a broker, bank, or other nominee, you may instruct your broker, bank, or other nominee to vote your shares by following the instructions that your broker, bank, or other nominee provides to you. Most brokers offer voting by mail, telephone, and the Internet. Shares held in street name may be voted in person by you at the Annual Meeting only if you obtain a signed proxy from the record holder giving you the right to vote the shares.
What is the quorum requirement for the Annual Meeting?
A quorum is necessary for the Company’s shareholders to conduct business at the Annual Meeting. The presence at the meeting, in person or by proxy, of the holders of a majority of the shares entitled to vote on the Record Date will constitute a quorum, permitting us to conduct the business of the meeting. Proxies received but marked as abstentions, if any, and broker non-votes, described below, will be included in the calculation of the number of shares considered to be present at the meeting for quorum purposes.
What is the voting requirement to approve each of the proposals?
Nine directors have been nominated for election at the Annual Meeting. Directors will be elected by a plurality of the votes properly cast in the election of directors at the Annual Meeting. This means that the nine nominees who receive the largest number of “FOR” votes cast will be elected as directors. Shareholders cannot cumulate votes in the election of directors.
The proposals to (i) ratify the appointment of Deloitte as our independent registered public accounting firm and (ii) approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation of our NEOs will be approved if the votes properly cast favoring the proposal exceed the votes properly cast opposing the proposal.
The vote on the compensation of our NEOs is advisory, and the results thereof will not be binding on us, the Board of Directors, or the Talent and Compensation Committee.
What does it mean if I receive more than one proxy or voting instruction card?
It means your shares are registered differently or are in more than one account. Please provide voting instructions for all proxy and voting instruction cards you receive.
Who will count the vote?
A representative of Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc., the Company’s mailing agent, will tabulate the votes. Mark C. Dely, the Company’s Secretary, will act as the inspector of election.
How are broker non-votes counted? What if I abstain?
When a proposal is not a routine matter and a brokerage firm has not received voting instructions from the beneficial owner of the shares with respect to that proposal, the brokerage firm cannot vote the shares on that proposal. This is called a broker non-vote. Absent instructions, your broker will NOT be able to vote your shares with respect to the election of directors or the approval of NEO compensation, because these matters are considered to be “non-routine” matters. Abstentions and broker non-votes will be counted for purposes of determining whether a quorum is present, but will generally have no effect on these proposals because they are not considered votes cast.
| VERA BRADLEY, INC. | 2024 Proxy Statement ● 43 |
Table of Contents
Questions and Answers About the Proxy Materials and the 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders
We strongly encourage you to vote your shares and exercise your right to vote as a shareholder. We also encourage all shareholders to take advantage of Internet and telephone voting in advance even if planning on attending the Annual Meeting since this will make the tabulation process easier and ensures your vote is counted if for some reason you are unable to attend.
Can I revoke my proxy or change my vote?
Yes. You may revoke your proxy or change your voting instructions at any time prior to the vote at the Annual Meeting by:
| • |
providing written notice to the Secretary of the Company; |
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delivering a valid, later-dated proxy or a later-dated vote on the Internet or by telephone; or |
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attending the Annual Meeting and voting in person. |
Please note that your attendance in person at the Annual Meeting will not cause your previously granted proxy to be revoked unless you specifically so request. Shares held in street name may be voted in person by you at the Annual Meeting only if you obtain a signed proxy from the record holder giving you the right to vote the shares. If your shares are held in street name, you must contact your brokerage firm, bank, or other nominee to change your vote or obtain a proxy to vote your shares if you wish to cast your votes in person at the meeting.
Who will bear the cost of soliciting votes for the Annual Meeting?
The Company is soliciting your proxy and will pay the entire cost of preparing, assembling, printing, mailing, and distributing these proxy materials. In addition to the mailing of these proxy materials, the solicitation of proxies or votes may be made in person, by telephone, or by electronic and facsimile transmission by our directors, officers, and employees, who will not receive any additional compensation for such solicitation activities. We may reimburse brokerage firms and other persons representing beneficial owners of our common shares for their expenses in forwarding solicitation material to such beneficial owners.
I share an address with another shareholder and we received only one paper copy of the proxy materials. How may I obtain an additional copy of the proxy materials?
The Company has adopted a procedure called “householding,” which the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) has approved. Under this procedure, the Company is delivering a single copy of this Proxy Statement to multiple shareholders who share the same address unless the Company has received contrary instructions from one or more of the shareholders. This procedure is environmentally responsible and reduces the Company’s printing costs, mailing costs, and fees. Shareholders who participate in householding will continue to be able to access and receive separate proxy cards. Upon written or oral request, a separate copy of this Proxy Statement will be promptly delivered to any shareholder at a shared address to which the Company delivered a single copy. To receive a separate copy of this Proxy Statement, or a separate copy of future proxy statements, shareholders may write or call Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. at the following address and telephone number: Householding Department, 51 Mercedes Way, Edgewood, New York 11717 or 1-800-542-1061. Shareholders who hold shares in street name may contact their brokerage firm, bank, broker-dealer, or other similar organization to request information about householding.
Can I access the Company’s proxy materials and Annual Report electronically?
This Proxy Statement and copies of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 3, 2024, as filed with the SEC, are available to shareholders free of charge in the “Investor Relations” section of the Company’s website at www.verabradley.com or by writing to Vera Bradley, Inc., 12420 Stonebridge Road, Roanoke, Indiana 46783.
Where can I find the voting results of the Annual Meeting?
The Company will announce preliminary voting results at the Annual Meeting and publish results in a Current Report on Form 8-K within four business days of the Annual Meeting.
| 44 ● 2024 Proxy Statement | VERA BRADLEY, INC. |
Table of Contents
Share Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management
SHARE OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The following table sets forth certain information regarding ownership of our common shares as of April 3, 2024 for the following individuals:
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each person known to us to own beneficially more than 5% of our outstanding common shares; |
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each of our executive officers named in the summary compensation table; |
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each of our directors; and |
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all of our executive officers and directors as a group. |
Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC and generally means the power to vote or to direct disposition. Except as described below, in computing the number of shares beneficially owned by a person and the percentage ownership of that person, common shares subject to options or warrants held by that person that were currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days of April 3, 2024, are deemed outstanding but are not deemed outstanding for computing the percentage ownership of any other person. These rules generally attribute beneficial ownership of securities to persons who possess sole or shared voting power or investment power with respect to such securities. All of the shares reflected in the table are common shares.
Percentage of beneficial ownership is based on 30,756,999 common shares outstanding as of April 3, 2024. Unless otherwise indicated, the address of each beneficial owner listed below is c/o Vera Bradley, Inc., 12420 Stonebridge Road, Roanoke, Indiana 46783.
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COMMON SHARES
BENEFICIALLY OWNED |
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NAME OF BENEFICIAL OWNER |
SHARES | % | ||||||
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5% Beneficial Owners |
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Patricia R. Miller (1) |
3,042,590 | 9.9 | % | |||||
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P. Michael Miller (1) |
3,042,590 | 9.9 | % | |||||
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Joan B. Hall (2)(7) |
2,675,044 | 8.7 | % | |||||
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Michael C. Ray (2)(3) |
2,680,477 | 8.7 | % | |||||
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Anne-Marie Ray (2)(4) |
2,680,477 | 8.7 | % | |||||
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James B. Byrne (2)(5) |
2,675,347 | 8.7 | % | |||||
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Thomas F. Byrne II (2)(6) |
2,675,347 | 8.7 | % | |||||
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BlackRock, Inc. (8) |
2,043,716 | 6.6 | % | |||||
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Fund 1 Investments, LLC (9) |
1,762,471 | 5.7 | % | |||||
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Dimensional Fund Advisors LP (10) |
1,337,188 | 4.3 | % | |||||
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Directors and Executive Officers |
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Jacqueline Ardrey |
54,667 | * | ||||||
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Barbara Bradley Baekgaard |
28,636 | * | ||||||
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Robert J. Hall (2)(11) |
2,807,840 | 9.1 | % | |||||
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Frances P. Philip |
69,787 | * | ||||||
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Jessica Rodriguez |
— | * | ||||||
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Mary Lou Kelley |
49,135 | * | ||||||
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Kristina Cashman |
33,870 | * | ||||||
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Carrie M. Tharp |
33,870 | * | ||||||
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Bradley Weston |
— | * | ||||||
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Michael Schwindle |
— | * | ||||||
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John Enwright (12) |
68,384 | * | ||||||
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Mark C. Dely |
80,694 | * | ||||||
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Alison Hiatt |
4,758 | * | ||||||
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Directors and Executive Officers as a Group
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3,231,641 | 10.5 | % | |||||
| VERA BRADLEY, INC. | 2024 Proxy Statement ● 45 |
Table of Contents
Share Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management
| * |
Represents beneficial ownership of less than one percent of the outstanding common shares. |
| (1) |
P. Michael Miller and Patricia R. Miller are husband and wife. Collectively, they beneficially owned an aggregate of 3,042,590 common shares as of April 3, 2024. Of these shares 1,500,000 shares were held by the Miller Marital Trust of which Mrs. Miller is the trustee; 1,421,811 shares were held by Patricia R. Miller; and 120,779 shares were held by P. Michael Miller. |
| (2) |
Michael C. Ray, Anne-Marie Ray, James B. Byrne, Thomas F. Byrne II, Robert J. Hall, and Joan B. Hall, each of whom is related by blood or marriage to Barbara Bradley Baekgaard, share voting and investment power with regard to 2,276,867 shares held by the Barbara B. Baekgaard 2009 Grantor Retained Annuity Trust (the “Baekgaard Trust”) and 31,358 shares held by the Barbara Bradley Baekgaard Family Foundation, a trust from which distributions are made exclusively to charitable organizations (the “Foundation”). In the aggregate, Michael C. Ray, Anne-Marie Ray, James B. Byrne, Thomas F. Byrne II, Robert J. Hall, and Joan B. Hall beneficially owned 3,914,336 shares as of April 3, 2024. |
| (3) |
Represents 2,276,867 shares held by the Baekgaard Trust; 34,065 and 338,187 shares held by the Anne-Marie Ray 2017 Grantor Retained Annuity Trust #1 and the Anne-Marie Ray Revocable Trust, respectively (collectively the “Anne-Marie Trusts”), of which Mr. Ray’s spouse is the sole trustee; and 31,358 shares held by the Foundation, of which Mr. Ray’s spouse is a trustee. |
| (4) |
Represents 2,276,867 shares held by the Baekgaard Trust; 372,252 shares held by the Anne-Marie Trusts, of which Mrs. Ray is the sole trustee; and 31,358 shares held by the Foundation, of which Mrs. Ray is a trustee. |
| (5) |
Represents 2,276,867 shares held by the Baekgaard Trust; 31,358 shares held by the Foundation, of which Mr. Byrne is a trustee; and 34,065 and 333,057 shares held by the James B. Byrne 2017 Grantor Retained Annuity Trust #1 and James Bradley Byrne Revocable Trust, respectively, of which Mr. Byrne is the sole trustee. |
| (6) |
Represents 2,276,867 shares held by the Baekgaard Trust; 31,358 shares held by the Foundation, of which Mr. Byrne is a trustee; and 34,065 and 333,057 shares held by the Thomas F. Byrne II 2017 Grantor Retained Annuity Trust #1 and Thomas F. Byrne II Revocable Trust, respectively, of which Mr. Byrne is the sole trustee. |
| (7) |
Represents 2,276,867 shares held by the Baekgaard Trust; 31,358 shares held by the Foundation, of which Mrs. Hall is a trustee; and 34,065 and 332,754 shares held by the Joan Byrne Hall 2017 Grantor Retained Annuity Trust #1 and Joan Byrne Hall Revocable Trust, respectively (collectively the “Joan Byrne Hall Trusts”) of which Mrs. Hall is the sole trustee. |
| (8) |
Information contained in the columns above and this footnote is based on a report on Schedule 13G filed with the SEC on January 29, 2024 by BlackRock, Inc. Various persons have the right to receive or the power to direct the receipt of dividends from, or the proceeds from the sale of, these shares. The principal place of business for BlackRock, Inc. is 50 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001. |
| (9) |
Information contained in the columns above and this footnote is based on a report on Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC on February 14, 2024 by Fund 1 Investments, LLC. Various persons have the right to receive or the power to direct the receipt of dividends from, or the proceeds from the sale of, these shares. The principal place of business for Fund 1 Investments, LLC is 100 Carr 115 Unit 1900 Rincon, Puerto Rico 00677. Shares reported herein for Fund 1 Investments, LLC are held for the benefit of private investment vehicles for which Pleasant Lake Partners LLC serves as investment adviser. Fund 1 Investments, LLC serves as managing member of Pleasant Lake Partners LLC. |
| (10) |
Information contained in the columns above and this footnote is based on a report on Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC on February 9, 2024 by Dimensional Fund Advisors LP. Various persons have the right to receive or the power to direct the receipt of dividends from, or the proceeds from the sale of, these shares. The principal place of business for Dimensional Fund Advisors LP is Building One, 6300 Bee Cave Road, Austin, Texas 78746. |
| (11) |
Represents 132,796 shares held by Robert J. Hall; 2,276,867 shares held by the Baekgaard Trust; 366,819 shares held by the Joan Byrne Hall Trusts, of which Mr. Hall’s spouse is the sole trustee; and 31,358 shares held by the Foundation, of which Mr. Hall’s spouse is a trustee. |
| (12) |
Shares beneficially owned are reported based on amounts known by the Company as of June 30, 2023, the last day of employment with the Company for Mr. Enwright. |
| 46 ● 2024 Proxy Statement | VERA BRADLEY, INC. |
Table of Contents
Other Business and Additional Information
OTHER BUSINESS AND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
DELINQUENT SECTION 16(a) REPORTS
Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act requires Vera Bradley’s executive officers, directors, and persons who beneficially own more than 10% of our common shares to file initial reports of ownership and reports of changes in ownership with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Such persons are required by Commission regulations to furnish Vera Bradley with copies of all Section 16(a) forms filed by such persons. Based solely on Vera Bradley’s review of such forms furnished to it and written representations from certain reporting persons, Vera Bradley believes that all filing requirements applicable to its executive officers, directors and more than 10% shareholders were complied with during fiscal 2024.
REQUIREMENTS, INCLUDING DEADLINES, FOR SUBMISSION OF PROXY PROPOSALS, NOMINATION OF DIRECTORS AND OTHER BUSINESS OF SHAREHOLDERS
In order to submit shareholder proposals for the 2025 annual meeting of shareholders for inclusion in the Company’s Proxy Statement pursuant to SEC Rule 14a-8, materials must be received by the Secretary at the Company’s principal office in Roanoke, Indiana, no later than December 29, 2024.
The proposals must comply with all of the requirements of SEC Rule 14a-8. Proposals should be addressed to: Mark C. Dely, Corporate Secretary, Vera Bradley, Inc., 12420 Stonebridge Road, Roanoke, Indiana 46783. As the rules of the SEC make clear, simply submitting a proposal does not guarantee its inclusion.
The Company’s amended and restated bylaws also establish an advance notice procedure with regard to director nominations and shareholder proposals that are not submitted for inclusion in the Proxy Statement,
but that a shareholder instead wishes to present directly at an annual meeting. To properly bring before the 2025 annual meeting, a nomination or other matter the shareholder wishes to present at the meeting, the shareholder must have given written notification thereof, either by personal delivery or by United States mail, postage prepaid, to the Secretary of the Company no earlier than 120 days and not later than 90 days in advance of the date of the Company’s Proxy Statement released to shareholders in connection with the previous year’s annual meeting of shareholders. As a result, any notice given by or on behalf of a shareholder pursuant to these provisions of the Company’s amended and restated bylaws (and not pursuant to SEC Rule 14a-8) must be received no earlier than December 29, 2024, and no later than January 30, 2025. All director nominations and shareholder proposals must comply with the requirements of the Company’s amended and restated bylaws, a copy of which may be obtained at no cost from the Secretary of the Company.
Other than the three proposals described in this Proxy Statement, Vera Bradley does not expect any matters to be presented for a vote at the Annual Meeting. If you grant a proxy, the persons named as proxy holders on the proxy card will have the discretion to vote your shares on any additional matters properly presented for a vote at the Annual Meeting. If for any unforeseen reason, any one or more of Vera Bradley’s nominees is not available as a candidate for director, the persons named as proxy holders will vote your proxy for such other candidate or candidates as may be nominated by the Board of Directors.
The chair of the meeting may refuse to allow the transaction of any business not presented beforehand or to require acknowledgment of the nomination of any person not made in compliance with the foregoing procedures.
| VERA BRADLEY, INC. | 2024 Proxy Statement ● 47 |
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
VERA BRADLEY, INC. 12420 STONEBRIDGE ROAD ROANOKE, IN 46783 SCAN TO VIEW MATERIALS VOTE VOTE BY INTERNET - www.proxyvote.com or scan the QR Barcode above Use the Internet to transmit your voting instructions and for electronic delivery of information up until 11:59 P.M. Eastern Time the day before the cut-off date or meeting date. Have your proxy card in hand when you access the web site and follow the instructions to obtain your records and to create an electronic voting instruction form. ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF FUTURE PROXY MATERIALS If you would like to reduce the costs incurred by our company in mailing proxy materials, you can consent to receiving all future proxy statements, proxy cards and annual reports electronically via e-mail or the Internet. To sign up for electronic delivery, please follow the instructions above to vote using the Internet and, when prompted, indicate that you agree to receive or access proxy materials electronically in future years. VOTE BY PHONE - 1-800-690-6903 Use any touch-tone telephone to transmit your voting instructions up until 11:59 P.M. Eastern Time the day before the cut-off date or meeting date. Have your proxy card in hand when you call and then follow the instructions. VOTE BY MAIL Mark, sign and date your proxy card and return it in the postage-paid envelope we have provided or return it to Vote Processing, c/o Broadridge, 51 Mercedes Way, Edgewood, NY 11717. TO VOTE, MARK BLOCKS BELOW IN BLUE OR BLACK INK AS FOLLOWS: KEEP THIS PORTION FOR YOUR RECORDS DETACH AND RETURN THIS PORTION ONLY THIS PROXY CARD IS VALID ONLY WHEN SIGNED AND DATED. To withhold authority to vote for any individual nominee(s), mark “For All Except” and write the number(s) of the nominee(s) on the line below. For Withhold For All All All Except The Board of Directors recommends you vote FOR the following: 1. To elect nine Directors for a one-year term to expire at the 2025 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. Nominees 01) Jacqueline Ardrey 02) Barbara B. Baekgaard 03) Kristina Cashman 04) Robert J. Hall 05) Mary Lou Kelley 06) Frances P. Philip 07) Carrie M. Tharp 08) Jessica Rodriguez 09) Bradley Weston The Board of Directors recommends you vote FOR proposals 2 and 3: For Against Abstain 2. To ratify the appointment of Deloitte Touche LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for fiscal 2025. 3. To approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation of the Company’s named executive officers. NOTE: To transact any other business as may properly come before the meeting or at any adjournments or postponements thereof. Yes No Please indicate if you plan to attend this meeting Please sign exactly as your name(s) appear(s) hereon. When signing as attorney, executor, administrator, or other fiduciary, please give full title as such. Joint owners should each sign personally. All holders must sign. If a corporation or partnership, please sign in full corporate or partnership name by authorized officer. Signature [PLEASE SIGN WITHIN BOX] Date Signature (Joint Owners) Date 0000631558_1 R1.0.0.6
Table of Contents
Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the Annual Meeting: The Notice and Proxy Statement, Form 10-K and Shareholder Letter are available at www.proxyvote.com VERA BRADLEY, INC. Annual Meeting of Shareholders Thursday, May 30, 2024 8:00 AM CT 160 East Pearson Street Chicago, Illinois 60611 This proxy is solicited on behalf of the Board of Directors of Vera Bradley, Inc. The undersigned hereby appoints Mark C. Dely and Michael Schwindle, or either of them, as true and lawful agents and proxies with full power of substitution in each, to attend and represent the undersigned on all matters to come before the Annual Meeting of Shareholders and to vote as designated on the reverse side, all the common shares of Vera Bradley, Inc., held of record by the undersigned on April 3, 2024, during or at any adjournment or postponement of the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held at 8:00 A.M., CT at the Seneca Lounge, The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago, Water Tower Place, 160 East Pearson Street, Chicago, IL 60611 on Thursday, May 30, 2024. I hereby acknowledge receipt of the Notice of Annual Meeting of Shareholders and the accompanying Proxy Statement, the terms of which are incorporated by reference, and revoke any proxy previously given by me with respect to such meeting. This proxy will be voted as directed, or if no direction is indicated, the proxy holders will vote the shares represented by this proxy “FOR ALL” director nominees under Proposal 1, “FOR” Proposal 2, “FOR” Proposal 3 and in the discretion of the proxy holders on any other matter that may properly come before the meeting. Continued and to be signed on reverse side 0000631558_2 R1.0.0.6