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DEERE &
COMPANY
One John Deere
Place
Moline, Illinois 61265
_________________________
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
February 29, 2012
Deeres Annual Meeting of Stockholders will be held on Wednesday, February 29, 2012, at 10:00 a.m. Central Standard Time at Deeres headquarters at One John Deere Place, Moline, in Rock Island County, Illinois. You can find directions to our headquarters on the back cover of the Proxy Statement. At the meeting, stockholders will be asked to:
1. | Elect the following directors
(see page 5): Crandall C. Bowles Vance D. Coffman Charles O. Holliday, Jr. Dipak C. Jain Clayton M. Jones Joachim Milberg Richard B. Myers Thomas H. Patrick Sherry M. Smith | ||
2. | Cast a non-binding vote on
executive compensation (say-on-pay) (see page 11) | ||
3. | Approve the Deere & Company
Nonemployee Director Stock Ownership Plan (see page 12) | ||
4. | Ratify the appointment of
Deloitte & Touche LLP as Deeres independent registered public accounting firm
for fiscal 2012 (see page
16) | ||
5. | Consider any other business properly brought before the meeting |
You may vote at the meeting if you were a Deere stockholder of record at the close of business on December 31, 2011.
This year, we are using the Securities and Exchange Commissions Notice and Access model (Notice and Access) that allows us to deliver proxy materials via the Internet. We believe Notice and Access provides stockholders with a convenient method to access the proxy materials and vote, while allowing us to conserve natural resources and reduce the costs of printing and distributing the proxy materials. On January 13, 2012, we mailed certain stockholders of record a Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy Materials with instructions on how to access the proxy materials electronically.
To be sure that your shares are properly represented at the meeting, whether you attend or not, please sign, date, and promptly mail the enclosed proxy card or voter instruction form in the enclosed envelope, or vote using the telephone or Internet voting procedures described on the proxy card. If your shares are held in the name of a bank, broker, or other holder of record, telephone or Internet voting will be available to you only if offered by them. Their procedures should be described on the voting form they send to you.
YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT WE URGE YOU TO VOTE USING TELEPHONE OR INTERNET VOTING, IF AVAILABLE TO YOU, OR BY SIGNING, DATING, AND RETURNING THE ENCLOSED PROXY CARD PROMPTLY IN THE ENCLOSED RETURN ENVELOPE. NO POSTAGE IS NECESSARY IF IT IS MAILED IN THE UNITED STATES. PLEASE NOTE THAT IF YOUR SHARES ARE HELD BY A BROKER, BANK, OR OTHER HOLDER OF RECORD AND YOU WISH TO VOTE THEM AT THE MEETING, YOU MUST OBTAIN A LEGAL PROXY FROM THAT RECORD HOLDER. |
Along with the attached Proxy Statement, we are also sending you our Annual Report, which includes our fiscal 2011 financial statements. Most of you can elect to view future proxy statements and annual reports over the Internet instead of receiving paper copies in the mail. Please refer to your proxy card and the section Electronic Delivery of Proxy Statement and Annual Report on page 4 of the Proxy Statement for further information.
For the Board of Directors, | |
Moline, Illinois | GREGORY R. NOE |
January 13, 2012 | Secretary |
TABLE OF CONTENTS | |
PAGE | |
Proxy Statement | 1 |
Annual Report | 3 |
Electronic Delivery of Proxy Statement and Annual Report | 4 |
Information not Incorporated into this Proxy Statement | 4 |
Householding Information | 4 |
Election of Directors | 5 |
Directors Continuing in Office | 9 |
Non-binding Vote on Executive Compensation | 11 |
Approval of the Deere & Company Nonemployee Director Stock Ownership Plan | 12 |
Ratification of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | 16 |
Fees Paid to the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | 16 |
Other Matters | 17 |
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management | 17 |
Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance | 19 |
Corporate Governance | 19 |
Committees | 22 |
Compensation of Directors | 25 |
Audit Review Committee Report | 28 |
Compensation Discussion & Analysis (CD&A) | 30 |
Compensation Committee Report | 49 |
Executive Compensation Tables | 50 |
Equity Compensation Plan Information | 69 |
Stockholder Proposals and Nominations | 70 |
Cost of Solicitation | 71 |
Appendix ADeere & Company Nonemployee Director Stock Ownership Plan | A-1 |
Appendix BDirector Independence Categorical Standards of Deere & Company | |
Corporate Governance Policies | B-1 |
Appendix CDeere & Company Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures | C-1 |
PROXY STATEMENT |
Why am I receiving this proxy
statement?
The Deere & Company
Board of Directors (the Board) has made available to you the Notice of Annual
Meeting, this proxy statement (Proxy Statement), our annual report for the
year ended October 31, 2011 (Annual Report), proxy card, and voter instruction
card (collectively, Proxy Solicitation Materials) either on the Internet or by
mail in connection with the Deere & Company (Deere, the Company, we,
or us) 2012 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the meeting or Annual
Meeting). You are receiving this Proxy Statement because you owned shares of
Deere common stock at the close of business on December 31, 2011, and that
entitles you to vote at the Annual Meeting. By use of a proxy, you can vote
whether or not you attend the Annual Meeting. This Proxy Statement describes the
matters on which we would like you to vote and provides information on those
matters so that you can make an informed decision.
The Proxy Solicitation Materials are being mailed to, or can be accessed online by, stockholders on or about January 13, 2012.
What is Notice & Access and why
did Deere elect to use it?
We make the
Proxy Solicitation Materials available to stockholders electronically via the
Internet under the Notice and Access regulations of the Securities and Exchange
Commission (the SEC).
Most of our stockholders have received a Notice of Electronic Availability (Notice) in lieu of receiving a full set of Proxy Solicitation Materials in the mail. This Notice includes information on how to access and review the Proxy Solicitation Materials, and how to vote, via the Internet. We believe this method of delivery will decrease costs, expedite distribution of Proxy Solicitation Materials to you, and reduce our environmental impact.
Stockholders who received a Notice but would like to receive a printed copy of the Proxy Solicitation Materials in the mail should follow the instructions in the Notice for requesting such materials.
How do I vote?
You can vote either in person at the Annual
Meeting or by proxy without attending the meeting. We urge you to vote by proxy even if you
plan to attend the Annual Meeting so that we will know as soon as possible that
enough votes will be present for us to hold the meeting. If you attend the
meeting in person, you may vote at the meeting and your proxy will not be
counted.
To vote your shares, follow the instructions in the Notice, voting instruction form, or the enclosed proxy card. Telephone and Internet voting is available to all registered and most beneficial holders.
Stockholders voting by proxy may use one of the following three options:
1
If you hold your shares in street name, please refer to the information forwarded by your bank, broker, or other holder of record to see the options available to you.
The telephone and Internet voting facilities for stockholders will close at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on February 28, 2012. If you vote over the Internet, you may incur costs, such as telephone and Internet access charges, for which you will be responsible. The telephone and Internet voting procedures are designed to authenticate stockholders and to allow you to confirm that your instructions have been properly recorded.
If you hold shares through one of our employee savings plans, your vote must be received by the plan administrator by February 24, 2012, or the shares represented by the card will not be voted.
Can I change my proxy
vote?
Yes. At any time before your
shares are voted by proxy, you may change your vote by:
If you hold your shares in street name, please refer to the information forwarded by your bank, broker, or other holder of record for procedures on revoking or changing your proxy.
How many votes do I
have?
You will have one vote for each
share of Deere common stock that you owned at the close of business on December
31, 2011.
How many shares are entitled to
vote?
There are 403,389,732 shares of
Deere common stock outstanding as of December 31, 2011 and entitled to vote at
the meeting. Each share is entitled to one vote. There is no cumulative
voting.
How many votes must be present to
hold the meeting?
Under our Bylaws, a
majority of the votes that can be cast must be present in person or by proxy to
hold the Annual Meeting.
2
What if I vote
abstain?
A vote to abstain on the
election of directors will have no
effect on the outcome. A vote to abstain on
the other proposals will have the effect of a vote against.
If you vote abstain, your shares will be counted as present for purposes of determining whether enough votes are present to hold the Annual Meeting.
What if I dont return my proxy card
and dont attend the Annual Meeting?
If you are a holder of record (that is, your shares are registered in
your own name with our transfer agent) and you do not vote your shares, your
shares will not be voted.
If you hold your shares in street name, and you do not give your bank, broker, or other holder of record specific voting instructions for your shares, your record holder can vote your shares on the ratification of the independent registered public accounting firm. However, your record holder cannot vote your shares without your specific instructions on the election of directors, the advisory vote on executive compensation, and the approval of the Nonemployee Director Stock Ownership Plan.
For the aforementioned proposals on which a broker cannot vote without your instruction, if you do not provide voting instructions to your broker, the votes will be considered broker non-votes and will not be counted in determining the outcome of the vote. Broker non-votes will be counted as present for purposes of determining whether enough votes are present to hold the Annual Meeting.
What happens if a nominee for
director declines or is unable to accept election?
If you vote by proxy, and if unforeseen circumstances make it
necessary for the Board to substitute another person for a nominee, we will vote
your shares for that other person.
Is my vote
confidential?
Yes. Your voting records
will not be disclosed to us except:
The tabulator, the proxy solicitation agent, and the inspectors of voting must comply with confidentiality guidelines that prohibit disclosure of votes to Deere. The tabulator of the votes and at least one of the inspectors of voting will be independent of Deere and our officers and directors.
If you are a holder of record or an employee savings plan participant, and you write comments on your proxy card, your comments will be provided to us but your vote will remain confidential.
ANNUAL REPORT |
Will I receive a copy of Deeres
Annual Report?
Unless you have
previously elected to view our annual reports over the Internet, we have either
mailed to you our annual report for the year ended October 31, 2011 (Annual
Report) with this Proxy Statement or provided the web address in the Notice for
you to access the Annual Report online. The Annual Report includes our audited
financial statements and other financial information, and we urge you to read it
carefully.
3
How can I receive a copy of Deeres
10-K?
You can obtain, free of charge,
a copy of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended October 31, 2011
(the Form 10-K), by:
Deere & Company
Stockholder
Relations
One John Deere Place
Moline, Illinois 61265-8098
You can also obtain a copy of our Form 10-K and other periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) from the SECs EDGAR database at www.sec.gov.
ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF PROXY STATEMENT AND ANNUAL REPORT |
Can I access Deeres proxy materials
and Annual Report electronically?
Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the
Stockholder Meeting to be Held on February 29, 2012:
The Proxy Statement and Annual Report to security holders are available on our Internet site at www.deere.com/stock.
Most stockholders can elect to view future proxy statements and annual reports over the Internet instead of receiving copies in the mail.
You can choose this option and save us the cost of producing and mailing these documents by:
If you choose to receive future proxy statements and annual reports over the Internet, you will receive an e-mail message next year containing the Internet address to access future proxy statements and annual reports. The e-mail will include instructions for voting over the Internet. If you have not elected electronic delivery, you will receive a Notice indicating that proxy solicitation materials are available at www.proxyvote.com.
INFORMATION NOT INCORPORATED INTO THIS PROXY STATEMENT |
The information on our website (www.deere.com) is not, and shall not be deemed to be, a part of this Proxy Statement nor, by reference or otherwise, incorporated into any other filings we make with the SEC.
HOUSEHOLDING INFORMATION |
What is householding?
Either a single copy of the Proxy
Solicitation Materials or the Notice, as applicable, will be sent to households
at which two or more stockholders reside if they appear to be members of the
same family,
4
unless one of the stockholders at that address notifies us that they wish to receive individual copies. This procedure reduces our printing costs and fees. Householding will not affect dividend check mailings in any way.
A number of brokerage firms have instituted householding. If you hold your shares in street name, please contact your bank, broker, or other holder of record to request information about householding.
If Proxy Solicitation Materials were delivered to an address that you share with another stockholder, we will promptly deliver a separate copy if you make a written or verbal request to Deere & Company Stockholder Relations, One John Deere Place, Moline, Illinois 61265-8098, (309) 765-4539.
How do I revoke my consent to the
householding program?
You must revoke
your consent to the householding program by contacting Broadridge Financial
Solutions, Inc. (Broadridge), either by calling toll free at (800) 542-1061 or
by writing to Broadridge, Householding Department, 51 Mercedes Way, Edgewood,
New York 11717. You will be removed from the householding program within 30 days
of receipt of the revocation of your consent.
ELECTION OF DIRECTORS |
Crandall C. Bowles, Vance D. Coffman, Charles O. Holliday, Jr., Dipak C. Jain, Clayton M. Jones, Joachim Milberg, Richard B. Myers, Thomas H. Patrick, and Sherry M. Smith are to be elected for terms expiring at the annual meeting in 2013. On February 24, 2010, stockholders approved an amendment to the Companys Certificate of Incorporation to provide for the annual election of directors. Beginning in 2013, all members of the Board will be elected annually.
The Corporate Governance Committee of the Board recommended these individuals to the Board and the Board nominated them.
Each nominees age at December 31, 2011, present position, directorships at public companies and registered investment companies during the past five or more years, positions with Deere, current directorships in other companies, and key qualifications, experiences, and attributes qualifying them to serve on the Companys Board appear below.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE
FOR ALL NINE NOMINEES. |
Key Qualifications, Experiences, and
Attributes:
In addition to her
professional background and prior Deere Board experience, the following
qualifications led the Board to conclude that Ms. Bowles should serve on Deeres
Board of Directors: her leadership qualities developed from her service as
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Springs Industries, the breadth of her
experiences in auditing, risk management, and other areas of oversight while
serving as a member of the Board of Directors of other global corporations, and
her subject matter knowledge in the areas of economics and sales and marketing
of consumer products.
5
Key Qualifications, Experiences, and
Attributes:
In addition to his
professional background and prior Deere Board experience, the following
qualifications led the Board to conclude that Mr. Coffman should serve on
Deeres Board of Directors: his leadership qualities developed from his service
as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Lockheed Martin Corporation, the
breadth of his experiences in auditing, corporate governance, and other areas of
oversight while serving as a member of the Board of Directors of other global
corporations, and his subject matter knowledge in the areas of engineering,
manufacturing, and finance.
Key Qualifications, Experiences, and
Attributes:
In addition to his
professional background and prior Deere Board experience, the following
qualifications led the Board to conclude that Mr. Holliday should serve on
Deeres Board of Directors: his leadership qualities developed from his
experiences while serving as Chairman of Bank of America Corporation and
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of DuPont, the breadth of his experiences
in auditing, compensation, and other areas of oversight while serving as a
member of the Board of Directors of other global corporations, and his subject
matter knowledge in the areas of engineering, finance, business development, and
corporate responsibility.
6
Key Qualifications, Experiences, and
Attributes:
In addition to his
professional background and prior Deere Board experience, the following
qualifications led the Board to conclude that Mr. Jain should serve on Deeres
Board of Directors: his leadership qualities developed from his experiences
while serving as Dean of INSEAD, Dean of the Kellogg School of Management, and
as a foreign affairs adviser for the Prime Minister of Thailand, the breadth of
his experiences in compensation, corporate governance, and other areas of
oversight while serving as a member of the Board of Directors of other global
corporations, and his subject matter knowledge in the areas of marketing, global
product diffusion, and new product forecasting and development.
Key Qualifications, Experiences, and
Attributes:
In addition to his
professional background and prior Deere Board experience, the following
qualifications led the Board to conclude that Mr. Jones should serve on Deeres
Board of Directors: his leadership qualities developed from his service as
Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Rockwell Collins, Inc., the
breadth of his experiences in finance, compensation, and other areas of
oversight while serving as a member of the Board of Directors of Unisys
Corporation, and his subject matter knowledge in the areas of government affairs
and marketing.
Key Qualifications, Experiences, and
Attributes:
In addition to his
professional background and prior Deere Board experience, the following
qualifications led the Board to conclude that Mr. Milberg should serve on
Deeres Board of Directors: his leadership qualities developed from his
experiences while serving as Chief Executive Officer of BMW and Chairman of
BMWs Board of Management and Supervisory Board, the breadth of his global
experiences from his service as a member of the Board of Directors of
non-U.S.-based corporations, and his subject matter knowledge in the areas of
engineering, production automation, and robotic technology.
7
Key Qualifications, Experiences, and
Attributes:
In addition to his
professional background and prior Deere Board experience, the following
qualifications led the Board to conclude that Mr. Myers should serve on Deeres
Board of Directors: his leadership qualities developed from his service as the
15th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the breadth of his experiences in
compliance, finance, and other areas of oversight while serving as a member of
the Board of Directors of other global corporations, and his subject matter
knowledge in the areas of crisis management, national security, and
international geo-politics.
Key Qualifications, Experiences, and
Attributes:
In addition to his
professional background and prior Deere Board experience, the following
qualifications led the Board to conclude that Mr. Patrick should serve on
Deeres Board of Directors: his leadership qualities developed from his service
as an executive officer of Merrill Lynch & Co., Inc., the breadth of his
experiences in auditing, corporate governance, and other areas of oversight
while serving as a member of the Board of Directors of other corporations, and
his subject matter knowledge in the areas of finance, economics, and asset
management.
8
DIRECTORS CONTINUING IN OFFICE |
The three persons named below are currently serving as our directors. Their terms will expire at the annual meeting in 2013. Each directors age, present position, directorships at public companies and registered investment companies during the past five or more years, positions with Deere, current directorships in other companies, and key qualifications, experiences, and attributes qualifying them to serve on the Companys Board appear below.
Key Qualifications, Experiences, and
Attributes:
In addition to his
professional background and prior Deere Board experience, the following
qualifications led the Board to conclude that Mr. Allen should serve on Deeres
Board of Directors: his leadership experience as an officer of Deere since 2001,
the breadth of his management experiences within and knowledge of each of
Deeres major global operations, and his subject matter knowledge in the areas
of engineering, manufacturing, and industrial management.
9
10
NON-BINDING VOTE ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION |
Section 951 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act requires that Deere seek a non-binding vote from its stockholders to approve the compensation of the executives named in the Summary Compensation Table of this Proxy Statement (the Named Executive Officers or NEOs) as disclosed in the Compensation Discussion & Analysis (CD&A) and tabular disclosures of this Proxy Statement. As approved by its stockholders at last years annual meeting, the Company is submitting this non-binding vote on an annual basis.
SUPPORTING STATEMENT
Pay for Performance
Deeres compensation philosophy is to pay for performance, support Deeres business strategies, and offer competitive compensation arrangements. Our compensation programs consist of elements designed to complement each other and reward achievement of short-term and long-term objectives. The metrics used for our incentive programs are associated with operating metrics or based upon a function of the Companys stock price with linkage to revenue growth and Total Shareholder Return. See the Deere & Company Pay for Performance graph in the Executive Summary of the CD&A which highlights our success in aligning executive compensation with the Companys financial performance.
Program Design
In the CD&A, we have provided stockholders with a description of our compensation programs, including the philosophy and strategy underpinning the programs, the individual elements of the compensation programs, and how our compensation plans are administered. Our compensation approach, which we call our Total Rewards Strategy, is supported by the following principles, among others, as fully described in the section, Total Rewards Strategy in the CD&A:
Best Practices in Executive Compensation
11
The Board believes that the executive compensation as disclosed in the CD&A, tabular disclosures, and other narrative executive compensation disclosures in this Proxy Statement coincides with our compensation philosophy and aligns with the pay practices of our peer group.
FOR THE REASONS STATED, DEERES BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE FOR THE FOLLOWING NON-BINDING RESOLUTION:
RESOLVED, that the stockholders approve the compensation of the NEOs as disclosed in this Proxy Statement pursuant to the compensation disclosure rules of the SEC, including the CD&A, tabular disclosures, and other narrative executive compensation disclosures.
Effect of Proposal
The say-on-pay resolution is non-binding. The approval or disapproval of this proposal by stockholders will not require the Board or the Committee to take any action regarding the Companys executive compensation practices. The final decision on the compensation and benefits of our NEOs and on whether, and if so, how, to address stockholder disapproval remains with the Board and the Committee.
The Board believes that the Committee is in the best position to consider the extensive information and factors necessary to make independent, objective, and competitive compensation recommendations and decisions that are in the best interest of Deere and its stockholders.
The Board values the opinions of the Companys stockholders as expressed through their votes and other communications. Although the resolution is non-binding, the Board will carefully consider the outcome of the non-binding vote and those opinions when making future compensation decisions.
APPROVAL OF THE NONEMPLOYEE DIRECTOR STOCK OWNERSHIP PLAN |
Summary of the Proposal
The Board has approved the Deere & Company Nonemployee Director Stock Ownership Plan in the form attached hereto as Appendix A (for purposes of this section of the Proxy Statement, the Plan), subject to approval by the stockholders of the Company. The Plan succeeds the 2002 Deere & Company Nonemployee Director Stock Ownership Plan (the Predecessor Plan) under which grants can no longer be made after March 7, 2012. The description of the Plan which follows is qualified in its entirety by reference to the text of the Plan as set forth in Appendix A. The Plan provides for annual awards to each nonemployee director of shares or units of Company common stock which will be subject to certain restrictions until the directors retirement, death, or disability. The number of shares of common stock reserved for all awards under the Plan is 500,000. No awards may be granted under the Plan after March 10, 2022.
Stockholder approval of the Plan requires the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares present or represented and entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE
FOR THE APPROVAL OF THE DEERE & COMPANY NONEMPLOYEE DIRECTOR STOCK OWNERSHIP PLAN. |
12
Description of the Plan
Establishment
Subject to stockholder approval, the Plan will become
effective on February 29, 2012.
Purpose
The purpose of the Plan is to further the growth, development,
and financial success of the Company by strengthening the Companys ability to
attract and retain the services of experienced and knowledgeable nonemployee
directors. The Plan is designed to enable nonemployee directors to participate
in the Companys growth and to link their personal interests to those of Company
stockholders.
Operation
Eligibility and the amount and timing of awards under the Plan
are determined pursuant to Plan provisions. The Plan provides for annual awards
to nonemployee directors of restricted stock units (RSUs) or shares of
restricted common stock of the Company in an amount recommended by the Corporate
Governance Committee and approved by the Board. In 2011, each nonemployee
director received RSU awards equivalent to $100,000 under the Predecessor Plan.
The number of RSUs or shares awarded in any year will be based on the fair
market value of the common stock as of the date one week following the annual
meeting of stockholders. The award is subject to risks of forfeiture and other
terms and conditions (the Restrictions). Pro rata awards will be made to
nonemployee directors elected by the Board between annual meetings. In the year
of retirement or resignation from the Board, the last award made to the
nonemployee director will be prorated.
Restrictions on restricted shares remain in effect during a nonemployee directors service on the Board. Restricted shares are held by the Company, and the shares are non-transferable and subject to forfeiture as provided in the Plan. Recipients of restricted stock receive dividends and are entitled to vote the restricted stock. Subject to proration of a nonemployee directors last award in the year of retirement or resignation, in the event of a nonemployee directors death, total and permanent disability, retirement, or resignation, the Restrictions attached to any award of restricted shares will lapse and the shares covered by such award will be delivered to the participant or the decedents beneficiary. If a nonemployee directors service terminates other than by reason of death, total and permanent disability, retirement, or resignation, all of the directors outstanding restricted shares are automatically forfeited.
Restrictions on awards of RSUs remain in effect until the awards are settled by delivery of the corresponding shares of common stock. Recipients of RSUs receive dividend equivalents but are not entitled to vote the underlying shares until the units convert to stock. Subject to proration of a nonemployee directors last award in the year of retirement or resignation, settlement of RSUs occurs upon a nonemployee directors termination of service on the Board or, if later, the first day of a calendar month specified by the director (but not later than 10 years following termination of service on the Board). However, if a nonemployee directors service terminates other than by reason of death, total and permanent disability, retirement, or resignation, all of the directors unsettled RSUs are automatically forfeited.
In the event of a change of control of the Company and a qualifying termination of a nonemployee directors service on the Board, the Restrictions will lapse and the shares covered by awards pursuant to the Plan will be delivered to the participant. For purposes of awards under the Plan, a change of control is defined, generally, to include: (i) the acquisition by a third party or persons acting as a group of 30% or more of the combined voting power of the Companys outstanding stock; (ii) a change in a majority of the incumbent Board of Directors of the Company (other than through election of nominees who are approved by a vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then in office); (iii) any merger, consolidation, or business combination of the Company (other than certain transactions
13
that do not result in a substantial change in proportional ownership of the Company); or (iv) the complete liquidation or a sale of all or substantially all of the Companys assets. A nonemployee director generally will be considered to have experienced a qualifying termination if within six months preceding or within 24 calendar months following a change of control of the Company, the nonemployee directors service terminates: (i) upon the nonemployee directors resignation from the Board at the request of the Company or another party to the transaction constituting the change of control; (ii) because the nonemployee director is not appointed to the Board as constituted following consummation of the transaction constituting the change of control; or (iii) as a result of the Companys failure to nominate the nonemployee director for re-election to the Board.
The lapse of Restrictions and delivery of shares in the event of a change of control may have the incidental effect of increasing the net cost of such change of control by a relatively small amount and thus could theoretically render more difficult or discourage such a change of control, even if such change of control would be beneficial to stockholders generally.
The total number of shares which may be granted under the Plan is 500,000. Shares awarded and later forfeited may become available for subsequent award grants. It is anticipated that at the time of stockholder approval, eleven nonemployee directors will participate in the Plan.
Administration
The Plan is administered by and under the direction of the
Board, which is authorized to interpret the Plan. The determinations of the
Board are final, binding, and conclusive upon all persons.
Federal Income Tax
Consequences
RSUs are not taxable to the
participant at the time of the grant. Dividend equivalents received on the units
are taxable to the participant as compensation during the period of the
Restrictions and also are deductible by the Company as compensation during such
period. The participant is taxed when the RSUs are settled by delivery of the
corresponding shares of common stock on the then-current fair market value of
the stock, and the Company is entitled to a tax deduction at the same time and
in the same amount.
One-twelfth of a participants restricted stock award is taxable to the participant at the time of grant based on the fair market value of the stock at that time, and the Company is entitled to a deduction at the same time and in the same amount. The remaining eleven-twelfths of the award are not taxable to the participant at the time of the grant, unless the participant elects, under Internal Revenue Code Section 83(b), to be taxed on the value of the stock at that time. If this election is made, the Company is entitled to a corresponding deduction and dividends on the stock are taxable to the participant and are no longer deductible by the Company. If such an election is not made, dividends received on the stock are taxable to the participant as compensation during the period that the restricted shares remain subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture (as defined in Section 83 of the Internal Revenue Code) and are deductible by the Company as compensation during such period. If such an election is not made, the participant is taxed when the substantial risk of forfeiture lapses which, under the terms of the Plan, occurs with respect to one-twelfth of the number of shares included in the award as of each month following the month during which the award is made, on the then-current fair market value of the stock, and the Company is entitled to a tax deduction at the same time and in the same amount.
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Amendment
The Board may at any time amend or terminate the Plan, but may
not amend the amount, price, or timing of awards more than once every six
months, except to conform with changes in laws. The Board may not materially
increase the maximum number of shares that may be issued under the Plan, may not
materially increase total benefits under the Plan, and may not materially change
eligibility requirements without such further approval of the stockholders as is
required by law. No amendment or termination of the Plan may materially impair
the rights of a participant under an award without the participants consent.
The Plan provides for adjustment of awards and the maximum number of shares
available for awards in the event of a stock dividend or split; a merger,
reorganization, consolidation, or recapitalization; or similar events.
Plan Benefits
The number of RSUs and shares that will be received in the future under the Plan by any participant is not determinable at this time. As described above, under the Plan, annual awards are made in an amount recommended by the Corporate Governance Committee and approved by the Board. For 2011, each nonemployee director received annual awards of RSUs under the Predecessor Plan equivalent to $100,000 based on the market value of the Companys common stock on the date of grant. At the December 2011 meeting, the Board increased the equity award to $120,000, as recommended by the Corporate Governance Committee, effective January 1, 2012. The table below shows the restricted units granted in fiscal 2011 under the Predecessor Plan to the individuals and groups indicated.
Name and Position | Dollar Value (1) |
Number of Restricted Stock Units | ||
Samuel R. Allen | ||||
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer(2) | None | None | ||
James M. Field | ||||
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer(2) | None | None | ||
David C. Everitt | ||||
President, Agriculture & Equipment Operations(2) | None | None | ||
James R. Jenkins | ||||
Senior Vice President and General Counsel(2) | None | None | ||
Michael J. Mack | ||||
President, WW Construction & Forestry Operations(2) | None | None | ||
Executive Group(2) | None | None | ||
Non-Executive Director Group | $999,150 | 11,140 | ||
Non-Executive Officer Employee Group(2) | None | None |
(1) | Represents the fair market value based on the mean of the high and low sales prices of Company common stock on the grant date, without giving effect to the diminution in value attributable to the restrictions on the units. | |
(2) | Employees of the Company are not eligible to participate in the Plan. |
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RATIFICATION OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM |
The Audit Review Committee has approved the selection of Deloitte & Touche LLP to serve as the independent registered public accounting firm to audit Deeres financial statements and internal controls over financial reporting for fiscal 2012. The Audit Review Committee and the Board are requesting that stockholders ratify this appointment as a means of soliciting stockholders opinions and as a matter of good corporate practice.
The affirmative vote of a majority of the shares present in person or by proxy and entitled to vote at the meeting is required to ratify the selection of Deloitte & Touche LLP. If the stockholders do not ratify the selection, the Audit Review Committee will consider any information submitted by the stockholders in connection with the selection of the independent registered public accounting firm for the next fiscal year. Even if the selection is ratified, the Audit Review Committee, in its discretion, may direct the appointment of a different independent registered public accounting firm at any time during the year if the Audit Review Committee believes such a change would be in the best interest of Deere and its stockholders.
We expect that a representative of Deloitte & Touche LLP will be at the Annual Meeting. This representative will have an opportunity to make a statement and will be available to respond to appropriate questions.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE
FOR THE RATIFICATION OF THE INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM. |
FEES PAID TO THE INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM |
For the years ended October 31, 2011 and 2010, professional services were performed by Deloitte & Touche LLP, the member firms of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, Limited, and their respective affiliates (collectively, Deloitte & Touche).
Audit Fees
The aggregate fees billed include amounts for the audit of Deeres annual financial statements and the reviews of the financial statements included in Deeres Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, including services related thereto such as comfort letters, statutory audits, attest services, consents, and accounting consultations. Audit fees for the fiscal years ended October 31, 2011 and 2010 were $15.2 million and $14.5 million, respectively.
Audit-Related Fees
During the last two fiscal years, Deloitte & Touche has provided Deere with assurance and related services that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit of our financial statements. The aggregate fees billed for such audit-related services for the fiscal years ended October 31, 2011 and 2010 were $0.6 million and $0.8 million, respectively. These services included audits of financial statements of employee benefit plans, various attestation services, and other consultations.
Tax Fees
There were no fees billed for tax services for the fiscal years ended October 31, 2011 and October 31, 2010.
All Other Fees
There were no fees billed for services not included above for the fiscal years ended October 31, 2011 and October 31, 2010.
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Pre-approval of Services by the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The Audit Review Committee has adopted a policy for pre-approval of audit and permitted non-audit services provided by Deeres independent registered public accounting firm. The Audit Review Committee will consider annually and, if appropriate, approve the provision of audit services by its independent registered public accounting firm and consider and, if appropriate, pre-approve the provision of certain defined audit and non-audit services. The Audit Review Committee will also consider on a case-by-case basis and, if appropriate, approve specific services that are not otherwise pre-approved.
Any proposed engagement that does not fit within the definition of a pre-approved service may be presented to the Audit Review Committee for consideration at its next regular meeting or, if earlier consideration is required, to the Audit Review Committee or one or more of its members between regular meetings. The member or members to whom such authority is delegated shall report any specific approval of services at its next regular meeting. The Audit Review Committee will regularly review summary reports detailing all services being provided to Deere by its independent registered public accounting firm.
During fiscal 2011, all services by Deeres independent registered public accounting firm were pre-approved by the Audit Review Committee in accordance with this policy.
OTHER MATTERS |
We do not know of any other matters that will be considered at the Annual Meeting. If, however, any other appropriate business should properly come before the meeting, the Board will have discretionary authority to vote according to its best judgment.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS |
AND MANAGEMENT |
The following table shows the number of shares of Deere common stock beneficially owned as of December 31, 2011, (unless otherwise indicated) by:
A beneficial owner of stock is a person who has sole or shared voting power, meaning the power to control voting decisions, or sole or shared investment power, meaning the power to cause the sale or other disposition of the stock. A person is also considered the beneficial owner of shares as to which the person has the right to acquire beneficial ownership (within the meaning of the preceding sentence) within 60 days. For this reason, the following table includes exercisable stock options, shares underlying RSUs that are scheduled to settle within 60 days of December 31, 2011, and options and RSUs that would become exercisable or be settled within 60 days of December 31, 2011 at the discretion of an individual identified in the table (for example, upon retirement).
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All individuals listed in the table have sole voting and investment power over the shares unless otherwise noted. As of December 31, 2011, Deere had no preferred stock issued or outstanding.
Shares | ||||||||||||
Beneficially | Options | Percent of | ||||||||||
Owned Excluding | Exercisable | Shares | ||||||||||
Options | Within 60 Days | Total | Outstanding | |||||||||
Non-Employee Directors (2) | ||||||||||||
Crandall C. Bowles | 30,366 | 30,366 | * | |||||||||
Vance D. Coffman | 14,182 | 14,182 | * | |||||||||
Charles O. Holliday, Jr. | 8,810 | 8,810 | * | |||||||||
Dipak C. Jain | 20,884 | 20,884 | * | |||||||||
Clayton M. Jones | 8,474 | 8,474 | * | |||||||||
Joachim Milberg | 18,358 | 18,358 | * | |||||||||
Richard B. Myers | 10,826 | 10,826 | * | |||||||||
Thomas H. Patrick | 46,902 | 46,902 | * | |||||||||
Aulana L. Peters | 19,658 | 19,658 | * | |||||||||
Sherry M. Smith | 252 | 252 | * | |||||||||
David B. Speer | 8,333 | 8,333 | * | |||||||||
Named Executive Officers (3) | ||||||||||||
Samuel R. Allen | 80,099 | 663,308 | 743,407 | * | ||||||||
James M. Field | 15,407 | 135,539 | 150,946 | * | ||||||||
David C. Everitt | 2,624 | 185,033 | 187,657 | * | ||||||||
James R. Jenkins | 48,999 | 161,791 | 210,790 | * | ||||||||
Michael J. Mack, Jr. | 30,522 | 150,747 | 181,269 | * | ||||||||
All directors and executive officers as a group | ||||||||||||
(19 persons) (4) | 1,733,323 | 1,599,280 | 3,332,603 | * |
* | Less than 1% of the outstanding shares of Deere common stock. | |
(1) | The ownership information for Cascade Investment, LLC (Cascade) is based on information supplied by Cascade in a statement filed with the SEC. All shares of common stock held by Cascade may be deemed to be beneficially owned by William H. Gates III as the sole member of Cascade. Cascade has sole voting power and sole dispositive power over 24,508,573 shares owned. | |
(2) | The table includes restricted shares and RSUs awarded to directors under the Deere & Company Nonemployee Director Stock Ownership Plan (see footnote (2) to the Fiscal 2011 Director Compensation Table). Restricted shares and RSUs may not be transferred prior to retirement as a director. RSUs are payable only in Deere common stock following retirement and have no voting rights until they are settled in shares of stock. In addition, directors own the following number of deferred stock units, which are payable solely in cash under the terms of the Nonemployee Director Deferred Compensation Plan: |
Director | Deferred Units | ||||
Crandall C. Bowles | 29,661 | ||||
Vance D. Coffman | 15,524 | ||||
Dipak C. Jain | 1,281 | ||||
Thomas H. Patrick | 12,976 |
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(3) | See the Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal 2011 Year-End table for additional information regarding equity ownership for executives as of October 31, 2011. | |
(4) | The number of shares shown for all directors and executive officers as a group includes 71,107 shares owned jointly with family members over which the directors and executive officers share voting and investment power. |
SECTION 16(A) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE |
Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, requires our directors, certain of our officers, and persons who own more than 10% of a registered class of our equity securities to file reports of ownership and changes in ownership with the SEC. These individuals are required by SEC regulations to furnish Deere with copies of all such Section 16(a) forms. Based solely on a review of the copies of such forms furnished to Deere, we believe that during 2011 all Section 16(a) filing requirements applicable to our insiders were complied with.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE |
Corporate Governance Policies
In recognition of the importance of corporate governance as a component of providing stockholder value, our Board of Directors has adopted Corporate Governance Policies for the Company. Our Corporate Governance Policies are periodically reviewed and revised as appropriate by the Board to ensure that the policies reflect the Boards corporate governance objectives. The independence standards included in these policies meet or exceed the independence requirements of the NYSE. Our Corporate Governance Policies can be found on our website at http://www.deere.com/en_US/ir/corporategovernance/policies.html.
Director Independence
As part of our Corporate Governance Policies, the Board has adopted categorical standards to assist the Board in evaluating the independence of each director. The categorical standards are intended to assist the Board in determining whether or not certain relationships between our directors and Deere or its subsidiaries (either directly or indirectly as a partner, stockholder, officer, director, trustee, or employee of an organization that has a relationship with Deere) are material relationships for purposes of the NYSE independence standards. The categorical standards establish thresholds at which such relationships are deemed to be not material. The categorical standards are attached as Appendix B to this Proxy Statement and are included as part of the Corporate Governance Policies referenced above. A copy may also be obtained upon request to the Deere & Company Stockholder Relations Department. In addition, each directors independence is evaluated under our Related Person Transactions Approval Policy, as discussed in the Review and Approval of Related Persons Transactions section below.
In November 2011, we reviewed the independence of each director, applying the independence standards set forth in our Corporate Governance Policies. The review considered relationships and transactions between each director (and his or her immediate family and affiliates) and each of the following: Deere, Deeres management, and Deeres independent registered public accounting firm.
Based on this review, at the December 2011 Board meeting, the Board affirmatively determined that the following directors have no material relationships with Deere and its subsidiaries and are independent as defined in our Corporate Governance Policies and the listing standards of the NYSE: Ms. Bowles, Mr. Coffman, Mr. Holliday, Mr. Jain, Mr. Jones, Mr. Milberg, Mr. Myers, Mr. Patrick, Ms. Peters, Ms. Smith, and Mr. Speer. Mr. Allen is not considered an independent director because of his employment relationship with Deere.
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Review and Approval of Related Person Transactions
The Board has adopted a Related Person Transactions Approval Policy (the Related Person Policy). Under the Related Person Policy, our Corporate Governance Committee is responsible for reviewing, approving, and ratifying all related person transactions.
Under the Related Person Policy, a related person includes:
(1) | executive officers and directors of Deere; | ||
(2) | any holder of 5% or more of Deeres voting securities; or | ||
(3) | an immediate family member of anyone in categories (1) or (2). |
A related person transaction is a transaction, relationship, or arrangement between a related person and Deere where:
Each year, our directors and executive officers complete annual questionnaires designed to elicit information about potential related person transactions. Deeres directors and officers must promptly advise our Corporate Secretary if there are any changes to the information previously provided.
After consultation with our General Counsel, management, and outside counsel, as appropriate, our Corporate Secretary determines whether the transaction is reasonably likely to be a related person transaction. Transactions deemed reasonably likely to constitute a related person transaction are submitted to the Corporate Governance Committee for consideration at its next meeting. If action is required prior to the next meeting, the transaction is submitted to the Chairperson of the Corporate Governance Committee (Chairperson) and the Chairpersons determination is then reported to the Corporate Governance Committee at its next meeting.
When evaluating potential related person transactions, the Corporate Governance Committee or the Chairperson, as applicable, considers all reasonably available relevant facts and circumstances and approves only the related person transactions determined in good faith to be in compliance with, or not inconsistent with, our Code of Ethics, Business Conduct Guidelines, and the best interests of our stockholders.
Patrick Mack, brother of Michael J. Mack, Jr., our President, Worldwide Construction & Forestry Operations, is an employee in the Financial Services division of Deere. During fiscal 2011, Patrick Mack received $635,884 in direct and indirect cash compensation, along with stock options valued at $149,600 at the time of grant. Patrick Macks compensation is consistent with that of other employees at his grade level. Pursuant to our Corporate Governance Committee Charter, this transaction was approved by the Corporate Governance Committee after determining that it is not inconsistent with our Code of Ethics and Business Conduct Guidelines.
Identification and Evaluation of Director Nominees
The Corporate Governance Committee is responsible for recommending director nominees to the Board. Such Committee considers candidates as recommended by stockholders, directors, officers, and third party search firms. Recommendations from stockholders are considered by the Corporate Governance Committee in accordance with the procedures described under the section of this Proxy Statement entitled, Stockholder Proposals and Nominations. The Corporate Governance Committee reviews all candidates in the same manner, regardless of the source of the recommendation.
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Our Corporate Governance Policies, which are periodically reviewed by the Board of Directors, provide the general criteria and framework for assessing director candidates. In accordance with our Corporate Governance Policies, when screening candidates for nomination to the Board, the Corporate Governance Committee considers skills, experience, international versus domestic background, diversity, age, and legal and regulatory requirements in the context of an assessment of the perceived needs of the Board.
At a minimum, the Board assesses the diversity of its members and nominees on an annual basis during its performance evaluation by considering, among other factors, diversity in expertise, experience, background, ethnicity, and gender.
Board Oversight of Risk Management
The Board believes that strong and effective internal controls and risk management processes are essential elements in achieving long-term stockholder value. The Board, directly and through its committees, is responsible for overseeing risks potentially affecting the Company.
The Audit Review Committee oversees financial, operational, strategic, and hazard-related risks by regularly reviewing reports and presentations given by management, including our Senior Vice President and General Counsel, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, and Vice President, Internal Audit. In addition, the Audit Review Committee regularly meets with our external auditors to discuss and assess potential risks. The Audit Review Committee regularly reviews our risk management practices and risk-related policies (for example, the Companys Business Conduct Guidelines, information security policies, risk management and insurance portfolio, and legal and regulatory reviews) and evaluates potential risks related to internal control over financial reporting.
The Compensation Committee oversees potential risks related to the design and administration of our compensation plans, policies, and programs, including our performance-based compensation programs, to promote appropriate incentives which do not encourage unnecessary and excessive risk-taking by our employees. The Pension Plan Oversight Committee oversees potential risks related to funding our U.S. qualified pension plans (other than the defined contribution savings and investment plans) and monitoring compliance with applicable laws and Company policies and objectives. The Corporate Governance Committee oversees potential risks related to our governance practices by, among other tasks, reviewing succession plans and performance evaluations of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, monitoring legal developments and trends regarding corporate governance practices, and evaluating potential related person transactions.
The full Board oversees the Companys risk management procedures and regularly receives and evaluates reports or presentations from the Chairs of the Audit Review, Compensation, Pension Plan Oversight, and Corporate Governance Committees on risk-related matters falling within each respective committees oversight responsibilities.
Board Leadership Structure
The Chairman of the Board also serves as our Chief Executive Officer. The Board believes that combining the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer roles is the most appropriate structure for the Company at this time because: (1) the Board believes this structure has a longstanding history of serving our stockholders well, through many economic cycles, business challenges, and succession of multiple leaders; (2) the Board believes its governance processes, as reflected in the Corporate Governance Policies and Board committee charters, preserve Board independence by ensuring independent discussion among directors and independent evaluation of, and communication with, members of senior management, and (3) the Board believes the enhanced role of the independent Presiding Director strengthens the Companys governance structure such that separation of the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer roles is unnecessary at this time.
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Presiding Director
Charles O. Holliday, Jr., an independent director, currently serves as our Presiding Director. Mr. Holliday is currently serving his third term as our Presiding Director.
The Presiding Director is elected by a majority of the independent directors upon a recommendation from the Corporate Governance Committee. The Presiding Director is appointed for a one-year term beginning upon election and expiring upon the selection of a successor Presiding Director.
The Board has determined that the Presiding Director should have the following duties and responsibilities:
The Board believes that the role of the Presiding Director furthers the Companys continuing commitment to strong corporate governance and Board independence.
Political Contributions
It is not our practice to make financial or in-kind political contributions with corporate assets, even when permitted by applicable law. The Company complies with all applicable state and federal laws related to the disclosure of lobbying activities.
The Company administers, under federal and state election laws, the John Deere Political Action Committee (JDPAC), which is a non-partisan political action committee comprised of the Companys managerial and professional U.S. employees who voluntarily pool their financial resources to support candidates who understand the general business interests of the Company and its employees. Except for administration expenses, JDPAC is funded solely by the Companys employees and is not supported by funds from the Company. JDPAC takes no stance on legislative matters and does not engage in lobbying on specific issues.
Communication with the Board
If you wish to communicate with the Board you may send correspondence to Corporate Secretary, Deere & Company, One John Deere Place, Moline, Illinois 61265-8098. The Corporate Secretary will submit your correspondence to the Board or the appropriate committee, as applicable.
You may communicate directly with the Presiding Director of the Board by sending correspondence to Presiding Director, Board of Directors, Deere & Company, Department A, One John Deere Place, Moline, Illinois 61265-8098.
COMMITTEES |
The Board met five times during fiscal 2011. Directors are expected to attend Board meetings, meetings of committees on which they serve, and stockholder meetings. Directors are expected to spend the time needed and meet as frequently as necessary to properly discharge their responsibilities. During fiscal 2011, all directors attended 75% or more of the meetings of the Board and committees on which they served, except Dr. Milberg who attended less than 75% of the Board and committee meetings at which his attendance was required (three absences due to family medical reasons). All directors attended the Annual Meeting of Stockholders in February 2011.
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Each Board meeting normally begins or ends with a session between the CEO and the independent directors. This provides a platform for discussions outside the presence of the non-Board management attendees, as well as an opportunity for the independent directors to go into executive session (without the CEO) if requested by any director. The independent directors may meet in executive session, without the CEO, at any time, and are scheduled for such non-management executive sessions at each regularly scheduled Board meeting. The Presiding Director presides over these executive sessions.
The Board has delegated some of its authority to the following five committees of the Board: the Executive Committee, the Compensation Committee, the Corporate Governance Committee, the Pension Plan Oversight Committee, and the Audit Review Committee. Each such committee has adopted a charter that complies with current NYSE rules relating to corporate governance matters. Copies of the committee charters, as well as our Code of Ethics and Business Conduct Guidelines, are available at www.deere.com/corpgov. A copy of these charters and policies also may be obtained upon request to the Deere & Company Stockholder Relations Department.
The Executive Committee
The Executive Committee may act on behalf of the Board if a matter requires Board action between meetings of the full Board. The Executive Committees authority concerning certain significant matters is limited by law and our Bylaws. No meetings of the Executive Committee were required during fiscal 2011.
The Compensation Committee
The Board has determined that under current NYSE listing standards all members of the Compensation Committee are independent. The Compensation Committee currently retains Pearl Meyer & Partners (Pearl Meyer) as its compensation consultant. Pearl Meyer also provides independent input for the Corporate Governance Committees decision-making with respect to director compensation. The Compensation Committee reports to the Board on its activities. The Compensation Committees primary responsibilities include:
The Corporate Governance Committee
The Board has determined that under current NYSE listing standards all members of the Corporate Governance Committee are independent. The Corporate Governance Committee reports to the Board on its activities. The Corporate Governance Committees primary responsibilities include:
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The Pension Plan Oversight Committee
The Board has determined that under current NYSE listing standards all members of the Pension Plan Oversight Committee are independent. The Pension Plan Oversight Committee oversees our pension plans, establishes corporate policy with respect to the pension plans, and also reviews the Companys funding policies. The Pension Plan Oversight Committee also has authority to make substantive amendments and modifications to the pension plans. The Pension Plan Oversight Committee reports to the Board on its activities.
The Audit Review Committee
The Board has determined that under current NYSE listing standards all members of the Audit Review Committee are independent and financially literate. The Board also determined that Mr. Holliday, Mr. Patrick, Ms. Peters, and Ms. Smith are audit committee financial experts as defined by the SEC and that each has accounting or related financial management expertise as required by NYSE listing standards. The Audit Review Committee reports to the Board on its activities and findings.
The Audit Review Committees primary responsibilities include:
The following table shows the current membership of each committee and the number of meetings held by each committee during fiscal 2011:
Director | Executive Committee |
Compensation Committee |
Corporate Governance Committee |
Pension Plan Oversight Committee |
Audit Review Committee | |||||
Samuel R. Allen | Chair | |||||||||
Crandall C. Bowles | X | X | Chair | |||||||
Vance D. Coffman | X | Chair | X | |||||||
Charles O. Holliday, Jr. | X | X | Chair | |||||||
Dipak C. Jain | X | X | ||||||||
Clayton M. Jones | X | X | ||||||||
Joachim Milberg | X | X | ||||||||
Richard B. Myers | X | X | ||||||||
Thomas H. Patrick | X | Chair | X | |||||||
Aulana L. Peters | X | X | ||||||||
David B. Speer | X | X | ||||||||
Sherry M. Smith | X | X | ||||||||
Fiscal 2011 meetings | 0 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 4 |
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COMPENSATION OF DIRECTORS |
We pay nonemployee directors an annual retainer along with additional fees to committee chairpersons as described below. We do not pay any other committee retainers or meeting fees. In addition, nonemployee directors are awarded RSUs after each annual meeting during their service as directors. A person who becomes a nonemployee director between annual meetings, or who serves a partial term, receives a prorated retainer and a prorated RSU award. We also reimburse directors for expenses related to meeting attendance. Directors who are employees receive no additional compensation for serving on the Board or its committees. Compensation for nonemployee directors is reviewed annually by the Corporate Governance Committee. At the December 2011 meeting, the Board approved changes to nonemployee director compensation, as recommended by the Corporate Governance Committee, which will be effective January 1, 2012. The following chart describes amounts paid and the value of awards granted:
Date Approved by Corporate Governance Committee | August 2007 | August 2011 | |||||||
Effective Date of Annual Amounts | September 2007 | January 2012 | |||||||
Retainer | $ | 100,000 | $ | 100,000 | |||||
Equity Award | $ | 100,000 | $ | 120,000 | |||||
Presiding Director | N/A | $20,000 | |||||||
Audit Committee Chair Fee | $15,000 | $20,000 | |||||||
Compensation Committee Chair Fee | $15,000 | $20,000 | |||||||
Corporate Governance Committee Chair Fee | $10,000 | $15,000 | |||||||
Other Committee Chair Fees | $10,000 | $10,000 |
Under our Nonemployee Director Deferred Compensation Plan, directors may choose to defer some or all of their annual retainers until retirement as a director. A director may elect to have these deferrals invested either in an interest-bearing account or in an account with a return equivalent to an investment in Deere common stock.
Prior to fiscal 2008, nonemployee directors received the equity award in the form of restricted stock. Beginning in fiscal 2008, directors receive the equity award in the form of RSUs. Although we do not impose stock ownership requirements on directors, we require directors to hold all equity awards until one of the following triggering events: retirement from the Board, permanent and total disability, death, or a change in control of Deere and a qualifying termination of the director. The directors are prohibited from selling, gifting, or otherwise disposing of their equity awards prior to a triggering event. While the restrictions are in effect, the nonemployee directors may vote the restricted shares, receive dividends on the restricted shares, and receive dividend equivalents on the RSUs.
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In fiscal 2011, we provided the following compensation to nonemployee directors:
Fiscal 2011 Director Compensation Table
Nonqualified | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Deferred | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Fees Earned or | Compensation | All Other | ||||||||||||||||||||
Paid in Cash | Stock Awards | Earnings | Compensation | |||||||||||||||||||
Name | ($) (1) |
($) (2) |
($) (3) |
($) (4) |
Total ($) | |||||||||||||||||
Crandall C. Bowles | $ | 110,000 | $ | 99,915 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 209,915 | ||||||||||||
Vance D. Coffman | $ | 115,000 | $ | 99,915 | $ | 0 | $ | 18,807 | $ | 233,722 | ||||||||||||
Charles O. Holliday, Jr. | $ | 115,000 | $ | 99,915 | $ | 0 | $ | 16,649 | $ | 231,564 | ||||||||||||
Dipak C. Jain | $ | 100,000 | $ | 99,915 | $ | 5,101 | $ | 19,524 | $ | 224,540 | ||||||||||||
Clayton M. Jones | $ | 100,000 | $ | 99,915 | $ | 0 | $ | 18,818 | $ | 218,732 | ||||||||||||
Joachim Milberg | $ | 100,000 | $ | 99,915 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 199,915 | ||||||||||||
Richard B. Myers | $ | 100,000 | $ | 99,915 | $ | 0 | $ | 21,602 | $ | 221,517 | ||||||||||||
Thomas H. Patrick | $ | 110,000 | $ | 99,915 | $ | 0 | $ | 26,819 | $ | 236,734 | ||||||||||||
Aulana L. Peters | $ | 100,000 | $ | 99,915 | $ | 0 | $ | 26,993 | $ | 226,908 | ||||||||||||
David B. Speer | $ | 100,000 | $ | 99,915 | $ | 0 | $ | 23,672 | $ | 223,587 |
(1) | All fees earned in fiscal 2011 for services as a director, including Committee Chairperson fees, whether paid in cash or deferred under the Nonemployee Director Deferred Compensation Plan, are included in this column. | |
(2) | Represents the grant date fair value of RSUs for financial statement reporting purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP) and does not correspond to the actual value that will be realized by the nonemployee directors. All grants are fully expensed in the fiscal year granted based on the grant price (the average of the high and low price for Deere common stock on the grant date). For fiscal 2011, the grant date was March 2, 2011, and the grant price was $89.69. The nonemployee director grant date is seven calendar days after the Annual Meeting. The assumptions made in valuing the RSUs reported in this column are discussed in Note 24, Stock Option and Restricted Stock Awards of our consolidated financial statements filed with the SEC on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2011. The following table lists the cumulative restricted shares and RSUs held by directors as of October 31, 2011. |
Director Name | Restricted Stock | RSUs | ||||
Crandall C. Bowles | 19,916 | 7,650 | ||||
Vance D. Coffman | 6,532 | 7,650 | ||||
Charles O. Holliday, Jr. | 1,160 | 7,650 | ||||
Dipak C. Jain | 13,234 | 7,650 | ||||
Clayton M. Jones | 824 | 7,650 | ||||
Joachim Milberg | 10,708 | 7,650 | ||||
Richard B. Myers | 3,176 | 7,650 | ||||
Thomas H. Patrick | 19,252 | 7,650 | ||||
Aulana L. Peters | 12,008 | 7,650 | ||||
David B. Speer | - | 6,833 |
(3) | Directors are eligible to participate in the Nonemployee Director Deferred Compensation Plan. Under this plan, participants may defer part or all of their annual cash compensation. For these deferrals, two investment choices are available: | |
|
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| ||
The amounts included in this column represent the above-market earnings on the interest bearing investment alternative on amounts deferred prior to fiscal 2010. Above-market earnings represent the difference between the prime rate as determined by the Federal Reserve Statistical Release plus 2% and 120% of the applicable federal long-term rate. | ||
(4) | Represents spousal travel and other expenses related to the May 2011 Board meeting in China. Directors have access to the corporate aircraft for purposes of traveling to and from Board meetings and other Company events. In accordance with SEC standards, no amount of incremental cost attributable to such aircraft usage is reported for fiscal 2011. |
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The reports of the Audit Review Committee and the Compensation Committee that follow do not constitute soliciting material and will not be deemed filed or incorporated by reference by any general statement incorporating by reference this Proxy Statement or future filings into any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, except to the extent that Deere specifically incorporates the information by reference, and will not otherwise be deemed filed under these Acts.
AUDIT REVIEW COMMITTEE REPORT |
To the Board of Directors:
The Audit Review Committee consists of the following members of the Board of Directors: Charles O. Holliday, Jr. (Chair), Dipak C. Jain, Joachim Milberg, Thomas H. Patrick, Aulana L. Peters, and Sherry M. Smith. Each of the members is independent as defined under the rules of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). The Audit Review Committee is responsible for assisting the Board of Directors in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities pertaining to the accounting, auditing, and financial reporting processes of Deere. Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining Deeres internal control over financial reporting and for preparing financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The Audit Review Committee is directly responsible for the appointment, oversight, compensation, and retention of Deloitte & Touche LLP, the independent registered public accounting firm for Deere. Deloitte & Touche LLP is responsible for performing an independent audit of Deeres annual consolidated financial statements and internal control over financial reporting, and expressing opinions on (i) the conformity of Deeres financial statements with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America; and (ii) Deeres internal control over financial reporting.
All members of the Audit Review Committee are financially literate under the applicable NYSE rules, and the following members of the Audit Review Committee Mr. Holliday, Mr. Patrick, Ms. Peters, and Ms. Smith are audit committee financial experts within the meaning of that term as defined by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in Regulation S-K under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The Audit Review Committee has a written charter describing its responsibilities, which has been approved by the Board of Directors and is available on Deeres website at www.deere.com/corpgov. The Audit Review Committees responsibility is one of oversight. Members of the Audit Review Committee rely on the information provided and the representations made to them by: management, which has primary responsibility for establishing and maintaining appropriate internal control over financial reporting, and for Deeres financial statements and reports; and by the independent registered public accounting firm, which is responsible for performing an audit in accordance with Standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), and expressing opinions on (i) the conformity of Deeres financial statements with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States; and (ii) Deeres internal control over financial reporting.
In this context, we have reviewed and discussed with management Deeres audited financial statements as of and for the year ended October 31, 2011.
We have discussed with Deloitte & Touche LLP, the independent registered public accounting firm for Deere, the matters required to be discussed by PCAOB Interim Auditing Standard AU Section 380, Communications with Audit Committees.
We have received and reviewed the written disclosures and the letter from Deloitte & Touche LLP required by applicable requirements of the PCAOB regarding the independent registered public accounting firms communications with the Audit Review Committee concerning independence, and have discussed with them their independence. We have concluded that Deloitte & Touche LLPs provision of audit and non-audit services to Deere is compatible with their independence.
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Based on the reviews and discussions referred to above, and exercising our business judgment, we recommend to the Board of Directors that the financial statements referred to above be included in Deeres Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2011 for filing with the SEC. We have selected Deloitte & Touche LLP as Deere & Companys independent registered public accounting firm for fiscal 2012, and have approved submitting the selection of the independent registered public accounting firm for ratification by the shareholders.
Ms. Smith is not a signatory to this report since she joined the Audit Review Committee subsequent to the reviews, discussions, and recommendations referenced herein.
Audit Review Committee | ||
Charles O. Holliday, Jr. (Chair) | ||
Dipak C. Jain | ||
Joachim Milberg | ||
Thomas H. Patrick | ||
Aulana L. Peters |
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COMPENSATION DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS |
Executive Summary
Fiscal 2011 Performance Review
During fiscal 2011, the Company maintained its strong financial condition through intense global economic pressure. The following table illustrates the Companys growth in fiscal 2011 in terms of net sales and revenue, net income, and stock price relative to performance in fiscal 2010.
2011 ($ in millions, except stock price) |
2010 ($ in millions, except stock price) |
Change (%) | ||||
Net Sales and Revenue | $32,013 | $26,005 | +23% | |||
Worldwide Net Income | ||||||
(U.S. GAAP) | $2,800 | $1,865 | +50% | |||
Stock Price per Share at Fiscal | ||||||
Year End | $75.90 | $76.80 | -1% |
Pay for Performance Review and Analysis
Pay for performance is an important component of our longstanding compensation philosophy. Our compensation approach, known as Total Rewards Strategy (described in greater detail below in the section Total Rewards Strategy), is designed to motivate our executives, including our NEOs, to substantially contribute individually and collaboratively to the Companys long-term, sustainable growth. The following chart shows the direct and indirect compensation components of TRS:
TOTAL REWARDS STRATEGY | ||||||
TOTAL INDIRECT | ||||||
TOTAL DIRECT COMPENSATION | COMPENSATION | |||||
Short-Term | Long-Term | |||||
Compensation | Compensation | All Other Compensation | ||||
Short-Term Incentive | Mid-Term Incentive | Long-Term Incentive | ||||
Base Salary | (STI) | (MTI) | (LTI) | |||
Fixed cash component | Annual cash award for profitability and efficient operations during the fiscal year | Cash award for sustained profitable growth during a multi-year period | Equity award for creation of stockholder value, as reflected by the Companys stock price, with linkage to revenue growth and Total Shareholder Return (TSR) | Perquisites; Retirement Benefits; Deferred Compensation Benefits; and Additional Benefits Payable Upon a Change-in-Control Event |
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As our NEOs assume greater responsibility, our pay-for-performance approach provides that: (1) a larger portion of their total compensation should be at-risk in the form of short-term, mid-term, and long-term incentive awards; and (2) a larger portion of their incentive awards should be focused on long-term awards to drive sustainable stockholder value. The following chart illustrates the allocation of all fiscal 2011 Total Direct Compensation components at target for each NEO. This chart highlights the Companys emphasis on long-term and at-risk compensation.
Consultant Review of Pay for Performance Relative to Peer Group
In the course of reviewing our overall executive compensation program, the Compensation Committees consultant, Pearl Meyer, reviewed the relationship between total realizable compensation and our performance for the three fiscal years ended October 31, 2011. This review was conducted to understand the degree of alignment between total compensation delivered to NEOs during the period and our performance relative to our peer group as identified in the Benchmarking section below. For purposes of this review, company performance is defined as total shareholder return. Total realizable compensation for Deere NEOs is defined as the sum of the following components:
1. | Actual base salaries paid over the three-year period; | ||
2. | Actual short-term incentive awards paid over the three-year period; | ||
3. | The Black-Scholes value as of October 31, 2011 of any stock options granted over the three-year period; | ||
4. | The current value of restricted shares (including RSUs and PSUs) granted over the three-year period; and | ||
5. | The value of actual MTI payouts made over the three-year period. |
For peer companies, realizable pay includes cash-based long-term incentive plan and performance share plan payouts for performance cycles fully contained within the 3-year period with award values multiplied by a factor that reflects grant frequency and long-term incentive vehicle mix.
Pearl Meyers analysis, as shown in the chart below, reveals that we achieved total shareholder return above the 75th percentile of our peer group from fiscal 2009-2011, while total realizable compensation for our CEO was below the median of the peer group and, for the other NEOs, closely tracked our relative performance.
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CEO realizable compensation is below median against other CEOs due to Mr. Allens shorter tenure as CEO. We expect that with increased tenure, the relative positioning of Mr. Allens actual realizable compensation will more closely align with realizable compensation for our other NEOs relative to the companies in our peer group. The Committee believes this chart demonstrates an appropriate relationship between our compensation programs and the Companys performance:
2011 Compensation Overview
At Deere, we remain committed to our longstanding compensation philosophy which incorporates the principles of paying for performance, supporting business strategies, and paying competitively. The Committee believes this philosophy continues to drive our NEOs and salaried employees to produce sustainable, positive results for Deere and our stockholders.
Compensation Objectives
We aspire to distinctively serve our customers those linked to the land through a great business. To achieve this aspiration, our business strategy includes:
Execution of this strategy is expected to create a sustainable business that rewards our customers, our employees, and our stockholders. Total Rewards Strategy is designed to motivate our NEOs and salaried employees to execute our business strategy and strive for higher company performance while maintaining our core values of quality, innovation, integrity, and commitment.
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Total Rewards Strategy (TRS)
TRS includes Total Direct Compensation (base salary, short-term, mid-term, and long-term incentive compensation) and Total Indirect Compensation (employee benefits). The award range and value for each of the incentive compensation components of TRS are tied to our performance through association with operating metrics or as a function of our stock price. We have chosen metrics that align compensation to our business strategy and our stockholders interests. This alignment is further accomplished by keeping our metrics simple, transparent, and consistently communicated from year to year. SVA, for example, has been published in the annual report every year since 2002 in the section following the Chairmans letter.
Although TRS applies to most salaried employees, this Proxy Statement focuses on its applicability to our NEOs. TRS is supported by the following principles: (1) attract, retain, and motivate high-caliber executives; (2) with greater responsibility, place a larger portion of their total compensation at-risk with a larger portion tied to long-term incentives; (3) provide the appropriate level of reward for performance (below median total compensation for substandard company performance; median total compensation for median levels of company performance; and upper quartile total compensation for sustained upper quartile company performance); (4) recognize the cyclical nature of our equipment businesses and the need to manage value throughout the business cycle; (5) provide opportunity for NEOs to be long-term stockholders of Deere; (6) structure compensation programs to meet the tax deductibility criteria in the U.S. Internal Revenue Code (IRC) where practicable; and (7) structure compensation programs to be regarded positively by our stockholders and employees.
Compensation Elements of TRS
Each component of Total Direct Compensation and Total Indirect Compensation within TRS is summarized in the table below:
Where Reported in | |||
Component | Purpose | Characteristics | Accompanying Tables |
Base Salary |
Reward for level of responsibility, experience, and sustained individual performance |
Fixed cash component targeted at our peer group median; Base salary can vary from the market due to individual performance, experience, time in position, and internal equity considerations |
Fiscal 2011 Summary Compensation Table under the column Salary |
Discretionary Bonus Awards |
To recognize outstanding individual achievement |
A cash award that may not exceed 20% of base salary, except in unusual circumstances |
No discretionary bonuses were awarded in fiscal 2011 to our NEOs |
Short-Term Incentive (STI) |
Reward for the achievement of higher profitability through operating efficiencies and asset management during the fiscal year |
A target STI award is designed to provide median annual cash compensation compared with our peer group when combined with base salary |
Fiscal 2011 Summary Compensation Table under the column Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation and Fiscal 2011 Grants of Plan-Based Awards under the column Estimated Future Payouts Under Non-Equity Incentive Plan Awards |
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Where Reported in | |||
Component | Purpose | Characteristics | Accompanying Tables |
Mid-Term Incentive (MTI) |
Reward for the achievement of sustained profitable growth over a multi-year performance period |
Cash portion of long-term compensation; A target MTI award is designed to provide upper quartile compensation compared with our peer group in combination with base salary, above target STI, and target LTI awards |
Fiscal 2011 Summary Compensation Table under the column Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation and Fiscal 2011 Grants of Plan-Based Awards under the column Estimated Future Payouts Under Non-Equity Incentive Plan Awards |
Long-Term Incentive (LTI) |
Reward for the creation of stockholder value as reflected by our stock price with linkage to revenue growth and TSR |
Equity-based portion of long-term compensation; A base-level LTI award is designed to provide median compensation compared to our peer group when combined with base salary and a target STI award; Award is delivered through a combination of Performance Stock Units (PSUs), Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), and stock options; Ultimate value of award depends on our stock price |
Fiscal 2011 Summary Compensation Table under the column Stock Awards and Option Awards; Fiscal 2011 Grants of Plan-Based Awards under the columns referencing stock and option awards; Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal 2011 Year-End; Fiscal 2011 Option Exercises and Stock Vested; Fiscal 2011 Deferred Compensation Table in the row Deferred RSUs |
Perquisites |
Provide our executives with selected benefits commensurate with those provided to executives at our peer group companies |
Benefits which personally benefit an employee, are not related to job performance, and are available to a select group of employees |
Fiscal 2011 Summary Compensation Table under the column All Other Compensation |
Retirement Benefits |
Provide income upon retirement |
The defined benefit pension plans plus a 401(k) plan (John Deere Savings and Investment Plan (SIP)); Our matches to the SIP are based on the applicable pension option (traditional or contemporary) and our performance |
Fiscal 2011 Summary Compensation Table under the columns Change in Pension Value and All Other Compensation; Fiscal 2011 Pension Benefits Table |
Deferred Compensation Benefits |
Allow executives to defer compensation on a tax-efficient basis |
Executives can elect to defer base salary, STI, or MTI into the Voluntary Deferred Compensation Plan; Executives participating in the contemporary pension option can defer employee contributions and receive matching employer contributions under the Defined Contribution Restoration Plan; RSUs may also be deferred |
Accumulated amounts deferred are reported in the Fiscal 2011 Deferred Compensation Table; Above-market earnings on these accounts are reported in the Fiscal 2011 Summary Compensation Table under the column Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Earnings |
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Where Reported in | |||
Component | Purpose | Characteristics | Accompanying Tables |
Potential Payments upon Change in Control |
Encourage executives to operate in the best interest of stockholders both before and after a Change in Control event |
Contingent in nature; Most elements are payable only if a NEOs employment is terminated as specified under various plans |
Fiscal 2011 Potential Payments upon Change in Control |
Other Potential Post-Employment Payments |
Provide potential payments under the scenarios of death, disability, retirement, termination without cause or for cause, and voluntary separation |
Contingent in nature; Amounts are payable only if a NEOs employment is terminated as specified under the arrangements of various plans |
Fiscal 2011 Potential Payments upon Termination of Employment Other than Following a Change in Control |
Compensation Methodology and Process
Independent Review and Approval of Executive Compensation
The Compensation Committee (the Committee), consisting of independent members of the Board, is responsible for reviewing and approving corporate goals and objectives related to compensation for the majority of salaried employees. The Committee evaluates the NEOs performance in relation to the established goals and ultimately approves the compensation for the NEOs (except for the CEO) after evaluating their compensation packages. See the Committees section of this Proxy Statement for a detailed listing of Committee responsibilities and members.
The Committee does not delegate any substantive responsibilities related to the compensation of NEOs and the Committee exercises its independent judgment when approving executive compensation. No member of the Committee is a former or current officer of Deere or any of its subsidiaries.
The Committee periodically reviews compensation delivery to ensure its alignment with our business strategy, the Companys performance, and the interest of our employees and stockholders. In addition, the Committee periodically reviews market practices for all elements of executive compensation and approves necessary adjustments to remain competitive.
The Corporate Governance Committee of the Board directs an annual evaluation process of the CEO. Generally, at the Board meeting in August of each year, the full Board (in executive session without the CEO present) evaluates the CEOs performance. The Committee considers the Boards evaluation when providing recommendations to the Board for the CEOs compensation. The Committees recommendations for the CEOs compensation are presented to and approved by the independent members of the Board. The CEO does not play a role in and is not present during discussions regarding his own compensation.
The CEO plays a significant role in setting the compensation for the other NEOs. The CEO presents an evaluation of each NEOs individual performance. The CEO also provides his recommendations for changes to the NEOs base salaries and LTI awards. Since the STI and MTI awards are calculated using predetermined factors, the CEO does not provide recommendations for changes to the other NEOs STI and MTI awards. The Committee has the discretion to accept, reject, or modify the CEOs recommendations. The other NEOs are not present during these discussions.
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The Committee reviews the results of the annual non-binding say-on-pay proposal. A substantial majority (97%) of our stockholders who voted on our say-on-pay proposal approved our executive compensation as described in our CD&A and tabular disclosures in the fiscal 2010 proxy statement. The Committee did not implement changes as a direct result of the vote.
The Role of the Compensation Committees Consultant
The Committee has retained Pearl Meyer as its Compensation Consultant. Pearl Meyer reviewed our executive compensation program design and assessed our compensation approach relative to our performance and the market.
Pearl Meyer attends Committee meetings, reviews compensation data with the Committee, and participates in general discussions regarding executive compensation issues. While the Committee considers input from Pearl Meyer, ultimately the Committees decisions reflect many factors and considerations. Management works with Pearl Meyer at the direction of the Committee to develop materials and analysis essential to the Committees compensation evaluations and determinations. Such materials include competitive market assessments and summaries of current legal and regulatory developments.
Pearl Meyer periodically meets independently with the Chairman of the Committee to discuss compensation matters. In addition, Pearl Meyer regularly participates in executive sessions with the Committee (without any of the Companys personnel or executives present) to discuss compensation matters. Pearl Meyer does not provide other significant services to Deere.
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Benchmarking
To ensure that total compensation for NEOs aligns with the market, we benchmarked our compensation and performance against the companies in our peer group. The companies in our peer group, indicated in the chart below, are similar to Deere in sales volume, products, services, market capitalization, and/or global presence.
Revenue * | Market Value | ||||
Fiscal Year | 10/31/2011 | ||||
Company | Fiscal Year | Employees | ($MM) | ($MM) | |
3M Co. | Dec 10 | 80,057 | $26,662 | $55,381 | |
Alcoa Inc. | Dec 10 | 59,000 | $21,013 | $11,452 | |
Caterpillar Inc. | Dec 10 | 104,490 | $42,588 | $61,080 | |
Cummins Inc. | Dec 10 | 39,200 | $13,236 | $19,175 | |
Eaton Corp. | Dec 10 | 70,000 | $13,715 | $14,979 | |
Emerson Electric Co. | Sep 11 | 133,200 | $24,222 | $35,835 | |
General Dynamics Corp. | Dec 10 | 90,000 | $32,466 | $22,859 | |
Honeywell International Inc. | Dec 10 | 130,000 | $33,370 | $40,531 | |
Illinois Tool Works Inc. | Dec 10 | 61,000 | $15,870 | $23,498 | |
Ingersoll-Rand Plc | Dec 10 | 59,000 | $14,079 | $ 9,718 | |
Johnson Controls Inc. | Sep 11 | 162,000 | $40,833 | $22,392 | |
Lockheed Martin Corp. | Dec 10 | 132,000 | $45,803 | $24,559 | |
Northrop Grumman Corp. | Dec 10 | 117,100 | $34,757 | $15,089 | |
Paccar Inc. | Dec 10 | 17,700 | $10,293 | $15,484 | |
Parker Hannifin Corp. | Jun 11 | 58,409 | $12,346 | $12,333 | |
Raytheon Co. | Dec 10 | 72,400 | $25,499 | $15,294 | |
Textron Inc. | Dec 10 | 32,000 | $10,525 | $ 5,402 | |
United Technologies Corp. | Dec 10 | 208,200 | $54,326 | $70,657 | |
Whirlpool Corp. | Dec 10 | 70,758 | $18,366 | $ 3,882 | |
Xerox Corp. | Dec 10 | 136,500 | $21,633 | $11,346 | |
75th Percentile | 130,000 | $33,370 | $31,417 | ||
Median | 72,400 | $24,222 | $19,175 | ||
25th Percentile | 59,000 | $14,079 | $12,333 | ||
Deere & Company | Oct 11 | 61,278 | $32,013 | $31,417 |
Source: Factset Research Systems, Inc.
* Reflects revenue for last reported fiscal year
Compensation paid by our peer group is representative of the compensation we believe is required to attract, retain, and motivate executive talent. The list of companies has not significantly changed in recent years and provides a consistent measure for comparing compensation to the market. The Committee periodically reviews the peer group list to confirm that it continues to be an appropriate benchmark for NEO compensation.
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Total Direct Compensation Elements
The following information describes each direct compensation element, including discussion of performance metrics, where applicable.
Base Salary
In determining salary levels for each of our NEOs, the Committee takes into consideration factors such as fulfillment of job responsibilities, the financial and operational performance of the activities directed by each NEO, experience, time in position, internal equity, and potential. The Committee also considers each NEOs current salary as compared to the salary range and the median salary practices of our peer group.
Short-Term Incentive (STI)
These factors are used to calculate the amount of the STI award paid to NEOs:
The STI Plan is periodically approved by our stockholders and was last approved at the annual meeting in February 2010. Individual STI awards cannot exceed the maximum as established in the plan.
Performance Metrics for STI
There are two metrics used in the calculation of STI: one for the Equipment Operations and one for Credit Operations. Our Credit Operations are a part of Financial Services.
OROA is the performance metric used by the Equipment Operations, which includes Agriculture and Turf Operations and Construction and Forestry Operations. Deere is primarily a manufacturing company with high investment in fixed assets, such as buildings and machinery, and significant expenses with longer term payoffs, such as research and development. OROA was selected as the STI performance metric because the Committee believes it effectively measures the efficient use of the Equipment Operations assets.
Targeted OROA performance for each Equipment Operations segment changes according to its sales volume. The actual sales volume is measured in relationship to mid-volume sales. Mid-volume sales are determined at the beginning of the fiscal year and represent the midpoint of a business cycle. It is determined using historical sales volumes, industry growth rates, and market share data, among other considerations.
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The above graph represents how Deeres operating leverage functions in a given business. For Deere, operating leverage means:
By adjusting OROA performance goals as sales volumes change, Deere believes the level of difficulty in attaining targeted performance will be comparable for a range of sales volumes and capacity utilization levels. Using OROA aligns employee decisions with our strategic approach to sound investment of capital and asset utilization. This model encourages our management team to make necessary structural changes, such as those related to capacity, margin enhancements, and asset turnover for a given volume level.
At the beginning of fiscal 2011, the Committee approved the following OROA goals at different sales volume levels for the Equipment Operations:
Fiscal 2011 OROA Goals | Minimum | Target | Maximum | |||||||
OROA Goals at Low Volume | 4 | % | 8 | % | 12 | % | ||||
OROA Goals at Mid-Volume | 8 | % | 12 | % | 20 | % | ||||
OROA Goals at High Volume | 12 | % | 20 | % | 28 | % |
These OROA goals have not changed since fiscal 2007. Minimum, target, and maximum OROA goals are interpolated for sales volumes between low and mid-volume and between mid-volume and high volume.
ROE is the performance metric for the Credit Operations. The Credit Operations experience different cash flow risk characteristics and operate with significantly different debt-to-equity leverage than the Equipment Operations. ROE goals for the Credit Operations are adjusted for the actual mix of business subsidized by the Equipment Operations as well as for the business not subsidized. ROE goals are higher for non-subsidized business. The Committee approved the following ROE goals at the beginning of fiscal 2011, which remained the same as in fiscal 2010:
Minimum | Target | Maximum | |||||||
Subsidized Business | 10 | % | 10 | % | 10 | % | |||
Non-Subsidized Business | 10 | % | 13 | % | 16 | % |
See Appendix C, Deere & Company Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures, for additional information regarding the calculation of OROA and ROE for fiscal 2011.
For fiscal 2011, the various business results are weighted to calculate STI as follows:
Equipment Operations OROA | 50 | % |
Agriculture and Turf Operations OROA | 25 | % |
Construction and Forestry Operations OROA | 15 | % |
Credit Operations ROE | 10 | % |
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Approval of STI Rates
After review and consideration of Deeres peer group data for target cash
bonuses, the Committee approves target STI rates as a percent of base salary for
NEOs at the beginning of the fiscal year. In November 2010, the Committee
approved STI rates for fiscal 2011 as follows:
Target STI Rates: | |||
CEO | 125 | % | |
Other NEOs | 85 | % |
Fiscal 2011 Performance Results for STI
The chart below details:
Goal to | Fiscal 2011 | Fiscal 2011 | Weighted | ||||||||
Achieve | Performance | Performance | Award | Award | |||||||
Fiscal 2011 Performance Results for STI | Payout | Results | as % of Target | Weighting | Results | ||||||
Equipment Operations OROA | 22.4% for | 29.8% | 200% | 50% | 100% | ||||||
maximum | |||||||||||
Agriculture and Turf Operations OROA | 24.8% for | 34.4% | 200% | 25% | 50% | ||||||
maximum | |||||||||||
Construction and Forestry Operations OROA | 13.6% for | 13.7% | 200% | 15% | 30% | ||||||
maximum | |||||||||||
Credit Operations ROE | 12.0% for | 14.9% | 200% | 10% | 20% | ||||||
maximum | |||||||||||
Actual Performance as % of Target | 200% |
To further explain this chart and the fiscal 2011 OROA goals, actual sales volumes for the combined Equipment Operations were slightly above mid-volume levels for fiscal 2011. Therefore, the combined Equipment Operations needed to achieve 22.4% OROA to earn maximum payout. Since an OROA of 29.8% was achieved, a maximum payout for that component was earned.
The amount of the STI award paid to an NEO is calculated as follows:
The STI plan and the results for fiscal 2011 described above are also used to determine the STI award paid to most salaried employees worldwide. For fiscal 2011, STI awards paid to the NEOs represented about 2% of the total amount of STI awards paid.
Long-Term Compensation
Long-term compensation includes a combination of MTI and LTI. MTI is paid in cash and is considered part of long-term compensation because multiple fiscal years are included in the performance period. For fiscal 2011, the LTI award consists of RSUs, PSUs, and stock options.
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Mid-Term Incentive (MTI)
The following factors are used to calculate the amount of the MTI award paid to the NEOs:
The MTI Plan is periodically approved by Deere stockholders and was last approved at the annual meeting in February 2008. Individual MTI awards cannot exceed the maximum as established in the plan.
Performance Metrics for MTI
In 2003, the Committee established SVA as the MTI performance metric. SVA
measures Deeres success in delivering sustained growth in economic
profitability. SVA was selected as the MTI performance metric because the
Committee believes that Deere should: (a) earn, at a minimum, its weighted
average cost of capital each year; (b) ensure that investments in capital and
research and development earn their cost of capital; and (c) ensure acquisitions
do not dissipate stockholder value. See Appendix C, Deere & Company
Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures, for an explanation regarding the
calculation of SVA.
We believe that sustained growth can be accomplished through a combination of revenue growth and high returns on invested capital. Since MTI is based on enterprise-wide SVA, MTI encourages teamwork across all units of our business.
The Committee has approved multi-year performance periods to emphasize and reward consistent, sustained operating performance. The Committee has conducted annual reviews of the target and maximum SVA goals since fiscal 2006. The maximum SVA goal matches enterprise SVA goals set by the business for each year in the performance period. The target SVA is set at half of the maximum SVA cap. The chart below details the target and maximum SVA goals for each of the performance periods that include fiscal 2011.
Fiscal 2008 | Fiscal 2009 | Fiscal 2011 | |
through | through | through | |
SVA Goals for MTI | Fiscal 2011 | Fiscal 2012 | Fiscal 2013 |
Years in Performance Period | 4 | 4 | 3 |
Goal for Target Payout | $2.075 billion | $2.85 billion | $2.465 billion |
SVA Goal for Maximum Payout | $4.15 billion | $5.7 billion | $4.93 billion |
Average SVA Per Year to Achieve Maximum Payout | $1.038 billion | $1.425 billion | $1.643 billion |
Maximum % SVA to be shared | 4.0% | 4.0% | N/A(1) |
Maximum SVA pool to be shared | $166 million(2) | $228 million(2) | N/A(1) |
Payable in | Dec 2011 | Dec 2012 | Dec 2013 |
Approved by Committee | Nov 2007 | Dec 2008 | Nov 2010 |
(1) | Maximum SVA % to be shared no longer applies. Payout will be determined by target MTI rates which are set at the beginning of the performance period. | |
(2) | Payout will be determined using target MTI rates approved in November 2010. If the total of all MTI awards exceeds the maximum SVA pool to be shared, the total payout will be limited to the amount shown. Based upon the size of the eligible population, target MTI rates, and SVA performance, total payout may be less than the amount shown. |
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In November 2010, the Committee approved a three-year performance period starting in fiscal 2011, which covers fiscal years 2011-2013. The Committee believes a three-year performance period will lessen the impact of the lag effect described in the following paragraph and better matches the timing of SVA accumulation with MTI payout. To implement the transition from a four-year to a three-year performance cycle, the Committee did not approve a performance period starting in 2010.
Inherent in the MTI plan is a lagging, multi-year impact of SVA. Whether positive or negative, SVA results for a given year become part of the MTI award calculation for that year and subsequent years. Negative SVA in a given year is part of the calculation for that year and subsequent years and can offset positive SVA earned in a prior or future year. Thus, MTI plan payouts in a strong-performance year, following a number of weak-performance years, will be lower than the financial results that the strong-performance year alone would justify. The opposite is also true: MTI plan payouts made in a weak-performance year, following several strong-performance years, will be higher than the financial results that the weak-performance year alone would justify.
Approval of MTI Rates
After review and consideration of upper quartile compensation data for
our peer group, the Committee approves target MTI rates. In November 2010, the
Committee approved the following target MTI rates for the performance periods
ending October 31, 2011, 2012, and 2013. When maximum SVA goals are met or
exceeded, 200% of target rates are paid.
Target MTI Rates*: | |
CEO | 121% |
Other NEOs | 93% |
*
A minimum
MTI award ($1,100 for the CEO and $400 for the other NEOs) will not be
paid unless accumulated SVA exceeds $1 million for the performance
period.
Fiscal 2011 Performance Results for MTI
Deeres accumulated SVA, calculated in accordance
with the MTI performance metrics as described in Appendix C, is reported in the
following table for the four-year performance period ending October 31,
2011:
For the four-year performance period ending October 31, 2011, the accumulated SVA exceeded the goal of $4.15 billion, resulting in a maximum MTI award. MTI awards paid to NEOs are detailed in the Fiscal 2011 Summary Compensation Table under footnote (4). The Committee did not exercise its authority to decrease or eliminate the MTI award for fiscal 2011. For fiscal 2011, MTI awards paid to the NEOs were equal to approximately 4% of the MTI payout to all eligible employees.
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In the ten years preceding the implementation of MTI, fiscals 1994 through 2003, accumulated SVA, as reported, was negative $1.4 billion as compared to accumulated positive SVA of $10.1 billion since 2003. The Committee believes that Deeres adoption of the SVA model is an important factor driving the Companys performance.
Long-Term Incentive (LTI)
The purpose of LTI is to reward the NEOs for the creation of sustained stockholder value, encourage ownership of Deere stock, foster teamwork, and retain and motivate high-caliber executives while aligning to the interests of our stockholders. Historically, LTI awards consisted of annual grants of restricted stock or RSUs, along with market-priced stock options under the John Deere Omnibus Equity and Incentive Plan (Omnibus Plan). In fiscal 2011, the Committee introduced PSUs as an element of the annual award mix in order to strengthen the incentive features of LTI awards and to create stronger alignment between ultimate payouts and Company performance. The Omnibus Plan is periodically approved by our stockholders. The last approval occurred at the annual meeting in February 2010.
The Committee established LTI grants to the NEOs based on the following criteria: level of responsibility, individual performance, current market practice, peer group data, and the number of shares available under the Omnibus Plan. Awards granted in previous years are not a factor in determining the current years award. Potential accumulated wealth is not viewed as relevant in arriving at the current years LTI award. The following table summarizes the mix, performance measurements, and general terms for each form of equity awarded to the NEOs for fiscal year 2011.
Fiscal Year 2011 LTI Award Overview for NEOs
PSUs | RSUs | Stock Options | |
LTI Mix | 40% | 25% | 35% |
Performance Measurements | 50% Revenue Growth* and 50% TSR, relative to the S&P Industrial Sector over a three-year performance period | Stock price appreciation | Stock price appreciation |
Vesting Period | Cliff vest on the third anniversary of the grant date | Cliff vest on the third anniversary of the grant date | Vest in approximately three equal installments over three years |
Restrictions/Expiration | Converted to Deere common stock upon vesting | Restricted until fifth anniversary of the grant date, at which time they are converted to Deere common stock | Expire ten years from the grant date |
*Based on the Companys Compound Annual Growth Rate
Approval of LTI Award Values
At the beginning of the fiscal year, after review and consideration of
peer group data on target long-term incentives, the Committee approves a dollar
value for a base-level LTI award and the mix of awards (options, RSUs, and PSUs)
to be delivered. The Committee determines LTI awards at the first Committee
meeting at the beginning of the fiscal year. The Committee has the discretion to
increase or decrease the base-level award to distinguish an individuals level
of performance, to deliver a
43
particular LTI value, or to reflect other adjustments as the Committee deems necessary. For fiscal 2011, adjustments to base-level award values were approved in recognition of the individual performance of the NEOs. Following these adjustments, awards were approved for the NEOs as follows:
Adjusted Award Values*: | ||
Samuel R. Allen | $8,360,000 | |
James M. Field | $1,590,400 | |
David C. Everitt | $1,633,000 | |
James R. Jenkins | $1,562,000 | |
Michael J. Mack, Jr. | $1,562,000 |
* | Amounts differ from the value of equity awards shown in the Fiscal Year 2011 Summary Compensation Table and Grants of Plan-Based Awards Table because those tables reflect the probable outcome of the performance metrics for PSUs. The amounts shown here include PSUs using the grant price on the date of grant, reflecting the value the Committee considered when granting the LTI awards for fiscal 2011. |
See Fiscal 2011 Grants of Plan-Based Awards table and footnotes for more information on LTI awards delivered as well as the terms of the awards.
For fiscal 2011, the number of RSUs and PSUs granted to the NEOs represented 74% of all RSUs and PSUs, respectively, granted to eligible salaried employees. The number of stock options granted to NEOs represented 9% of all stock options granted to eligible salaried employees in fiscal 2011. These proportions are consistent with our philosophy that as NEOs assume greater responsibility, a larger portion of their incentive compensation should be focused on long-term awards.
PSUs Granted in Fiscal Year 2011
For PSUs granted in 2011, the actual number of
shares to be issued upon conversion of the PSUs will be based on Deeres revenue
growth and TSR for the three-year performance period, which will end in 2013.
The Companys performance will be measured relative to the companies in the
S&P Industrial Sector as of the end of the performance period.
Performance Targets (2011 2013 Performance Period) | ||||
Revenue Growth Payout % | + | TSR Payout % | = | Final |
× PSUs Awarded | × PSUs Awarded | Award |
The number of PSUs that vest and convert to shares can range from 0% to 200% of the number of PSUs awarded depending on the Companys relative performance during the performance period as illustrated in the following table.
Deeres Revenue Growth or | % of Target Shares Earned | |||
TSR Relative to the Peer Group | (Payout %) * | |||
Below 25th percentile | 0 | % | ||
At 25th percentile | 25 | % | ||
At 50th percentile | 100 | % | ||
At or above 75th percentile | 200 | % |
* Interim points are interpolated
LTI Grant Practices
For
more than 15 years, the Committee has authorized the annual LTI awards for all
eligible employees on a single date each year. The grant date is seven calendar
days after the first Board meeting of the fiscal year. This timing allows for
stock price stabilization after the release of year-end financial
results
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and Board meeting announcements. The grant price for LTI awards is the average of the high and low common stock price on the grant date as reported on the NYSE. This grant price is also used to determine the number of PSUs, RSUs, and stock options to be awarded.
Stock Ownership Guidelines
Stock ownership guidelines apply to NEOs to encourage the retention of
stock acquired through our equity incentive plan. These guidelines are based on
a multiple of each NEOs base salary. The guidelines are five times base salary
for the CEO and 3.5 times base salary for the other NEOs. For fiscal 2011, only
vested RSUs and any common stock held personally by the NEOs were included in
determining whether the applicable ownership guideline was achieved.
The RSUs granted in fiscal years 2008 through 2010 must be held until retirement or other permitted termination of employment. Once the guideline is achieved by the NEO, the number of shares held at that time becomes the fixed stock ownership requirement for the NEO for three years, even if base salary increases. As of the date of this Proxy Statement, each NEO has achieved stockholdings in excess of the applicable multiple.
Our Insider Trading Policy precludes all directors and employees, including our NEOs, and their Related Persons from engaging in short sales of the Companys stock or trading in instruments designed to hedge against the Companys stock.
Summary of Total Direct Compensation
The Committee believes each pay element is consistent with our compensation philosophy. The pay elements are designed to complement each other and reward the achievement of short-term and long-term objectives. The Committee recognizes individual fulfillment of duties through adjustments to base salary and LTI. The Committee reviews Total Direct Compensation for each NEO and compares this compensation to the market position data of our peer group. This market position data takes into account the level of responsibility (including the level of sales volume) for each NEOs respective operations.
Total Direct Compensation for the CEO is higher than other NEOs due to his breadth of executive and operating responsibilities for the entire global enterprise. This design is supported by a comparison to our peer group. We have a practice of rotating individuals among the executive officer positions. As described above, a primary part of our strategy is aligned high-performance teamwork. A substantial portion of the evaluation of individual performance is a careful analysis of each NEOs collaboration and contribution to the success of a high-performing team. Thus, while the market data for each position is a factor in reviewing Total Direct Compensation, the Committee also considers individual fulfillment of duties, teamwork, development, time in position, experience, and internal equity among NEOs (other than the CEO). The Committee does not target CEO compensation as a certain multiple of the compensation of the other NEOs. The relationship between the CEOs compensation and that of the other NEOs is influenced by our organizational structure, which does not include a chief operating officer. For Mr. Allen, Total Direct Compensation as compared to the other NEOs Total Direct Compensation is generally comparable to that of our peer group.
Limitations on Deductibility of Compensation
Section 162(m) of the IRC generally limits to $1 million the U.S. federal tax deductibility of compensation paid in one year to any employee. Performance-based compensation is not subject to the limits on deductibility of Section 162(m), provided such compensation meets certain requirements, including stockholder approval of material terms of compensation.
The Committee strives to provide NEOs with compensation programs that will preserve the tax deductibility of compensation paid by Deere, to the extent reasonably practicable and to the extent consistent with Deeres other compensation objectives. The Committee believes, however, that
45
stockholder interests are best served by not restricting the Committees discretion and flexibility in structuring compensation programs, even though such programs may result in certain non-deductible compensation expenses.
Recoupment of Previously Paid Incentive Compensation
In November 2007, the Committee adopted the Executive Incentive Compensation Recoupment Policy (Recoupment Policy). The Recoupment Policy authorizes the Committee to determine whether to require recoupment of incentive compensation paid to or deferred by certain executives (including the NEOs) if certain conditions are met. The Committee may require recoupment if the NEO engaged in misconduct that:
and, in either case, the Committee determines that the NEOs incentive compensation would have been less if the misconduct had not occurred.
Total Indirect Compensation Elements
The following sections describe each Total Indirect Compensation element:
Perquisites
We offer our NEOs various perquisites that the Committee believes are reasonable to remain competitive. These perquisites constitute a small percentage of total compensation. The Committee conducts an annual review of the perquisites offered to the NEOs. For more information on the perquisites provided and to whom they apply, see footnote (6) to the Fiscal 2011 Summary Compensation Table. In addition to the items listed in the aforementioned footnote, NEOs, as well as other selected employees, are also provided indoor parking and access to Deere-sponsored skyboxes at local venues for personal use when not occupied for business purposes, both at no incremental cost to the Company. All security services provided by the Company are reimbursed by the NEOs.
In August 2006, the Board voted to require the CEO to use the Companys aircraft for all business and personal travel, believing that the ability to travel safely and efficiently provides substantial benefits that justify the cost. Deeres geographic location in the Midwest, outside of a major metropolitan area, makes personal and business travel challenging. Traveling by company aircraft for business and personal reasons allows the CEO to conduct business confidentially while in transit. Since the CEO travels extensively, inefficient travel is costly to the Company. Personal use of company aircraft by other NEOs is minimal. Any personal travel on Deere aircraft by the other NEOs, individually or accompanied by their family members, must be approved by the CEO. The Committee has limited the CEOs annual personal usage of company aircraft to approximately 100 hours.
Retirement Benefits
Pension Benefits
The
NEOs are covered by the same defined benefit pension plans, which include the
same plan terms as most qualifying U.S. salaried employees. We also maintain two
additional defined benefit pension plans in which NEOs may participate, the
Senior Supplementary Pension Benefit Plan (the Supplementary Plan) and the
John Deere Supplemental Benefit Plan (the Supplemental Plan).
The defined benefit pension plan has compensation limits imposed by the Internal Revenue Code. The Supplementary Plan provides participants with the same benefit they would have received without the limits. This avoids the relative disadvantage that participants would experience compared to other
46
qualified plan participants. The Supplemental Plan is designed to reward career service at Deere above a specified grade level by utilizing a formula that takes into account only years of service above a specified grade level. We believe that the defined benefit plans serve as important retention tools, provide a level of competitive income upon retirement, and reward long-term employment and service as an officer of Deere. For additional information, see the Fiscal 2011 Pension Benefits Table along with the accompanying narrative and footnotes.
We also maintain a tax-qualified defined contribution plan, the John Deere Savings and Investment Plan (SIP), which is available to the majority of U.S. employees, including the NEOs. We make matching contributions on up to six percent of an employees pay to participant SIP accounts. The STI results of the previous fiscal year (see the Performance Metrics for STI section above) are used for determining the level of actual Company match for the following calendar year. The level of Company match also depends upon the NEOs participation in the Traditional Option versus the Contemporary Option as explained in the narrative preceding the Fiscal 2011 Pension Benefits Table. The following table illustrates the Companys match for calendar 2011, which is reported under the All Other Compensation column of the Fiscal 2011 Summary Compensation Table:
Traditional Option match on 1-6% of eligible earnings | 82 | % | |
Contemporary Option match on first 2% of eligible earnings | 246 | % | |
Contemporary Option match on next 4% of eligible earnings | 82 | % |
Deferred Compensation Benefits
We also maintain certain deferred compensation plans that provide the NEOs with a longer-term savings opportunity on a tax-efficient basis. All deferred compensation benefits are designed to attract, retain, and motivate employees. Such deferred compensation benefits are commonly offered by companies with whom we compete for talent. See the Nonqualified Deferred Compensation section below for additional details.
Potential Payments upon Change in Control and Other Potential Post-Employment Payments
Potential Payments upon Change in Control
In August 2009, the Committee approved a Change in
Control Severance Program (the CIC Program) to replace the change in control
agreements in place since 2000. The CIC Program covers certain executive
officers, including each of the NEOs, and is intended to facilitate continuity
of management in the event of a change in control. The Committee believes that
the CIC Program serves the following purposes:
For more information, see Fiscal 2011 Potential Payments upon Change in Control and the corresponding tables.
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Other Potential Post Employment Payments
The Companys various plans and policies provide
payments to NEOs upon certain types of employment terminations that are not
related to a change in control. These events and amounts are explained in the
section below entitled Fiscal 2011 Potential Payments upon Termination of
Employment Other than Following a Change in Control.
Risk Assessment of Compensation Policies and Practices
During fiscal 2011, management conducted a comprehensive risk assessment of the Companys compensation policies and practices. The risk assessment process included the following:
(1) | Assembled a Compensation Risk Assessment Team (Management Team) comprised of management representing relevant areas of oversight; | ||
(2) | Completed an inventory of the Companys compensation programs globally for both executive and non-executive employees; and | ||
(3) | Established a detailed risk assessment questionnaire and applied it to the compensation programs which, due to their size, potential payout, and/or structure could potentially have a material adverse effect on the Company. |
The inquiries in the risk assessment questionnaire focused on the following issues: (a) pay-for-performance comparison against the Companys peer group; (b) balance of compensation components; (c) program design and pay leverage; (d) program governance; and (e) mitigating factors that offset program risks.
After review, the Management Team concluded that the Companys compensation policies and practices do not create risks that are reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on the Company. The Committee, along with its independent compensation consultant, Pearl Meyer, reviewed the risk assessment and concurred with the Management Teams conclusion. Specifically, the Committee believes the following key factors support the Management Teams conclusion: (i) the performance metrics for determining STI (OROA and ROE) and MTI (SVA) are based on worldwide, publicly reported metrics with only minor adjustments and, therefore, are not easily susceptible to manipulation; (ii) the metrics for STI are capped at a maximum level of OROA and ROE performance, thereby reducing the risk that the executives might be motivated to attain excessively high stretch goals in order to maximize short-term payouts; and (iii) the maximum amount of accumulated SVA to be shared is capped for the multi-year performance period. In addition, Deere maintains stock ownership guidelines which are designed to incentivize our NEOs to focus on the Companys long-term, sustainable growth. Finally, Deere has a Recoupment Policy (which is described above) designed to prevent misconduct relating to financial reporting.
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COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT |
The Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors has reviewed the Compensation Discussion and Analysis required by Item 402(b) of Regulation S-K and discussed it with Deeres management. Based on the Compensation Committees review and discussions with management, the Compensation Committee recommends to the Board of Directors that the Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in Deeres Proxy Statement.
Vance D. Coffman, Chair |
Crandall C. Bowles |
Clayton M. Jones |
Richard B. Myers |
David B. Speer |
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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION TABLES |
In this section, we provide tabular and narrative information regarding the compensation of our CEO, CFO, and the next three most highly compensated executive officers for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2011.
Fiscal 2011 Summary Compensation Table
Change in | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Pension Value | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
and Nonqualified | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-Equity | Deferred | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock | Option | Incentive Plan | Compensation | All Other | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Salary | Awards | Awards | Compensation | Earnings | Compensation | |||||||||||||||||||||
Fiscal | ($) | ($) | ($) | ($) | ($) | ($) | Total | |||||||||||||||||||
Name & Position | Year | (1) | (2) | (3) | (4) | (5) | (6) | ($) | ||||||||||||||||||
Samuel R. Allen | 2011 | $ | 1,255,000 | $ | 6,100,913 | $ | 2,925,996 | $ | 6,041,500 | $ | 2,233,075 | $ | 245,880 | $ | 18,802,364 | |||||||||||
Chairman and | 2010 | $ | 1,200,000 | $ | 1,412,997 | $ | 4,231,536 | $ | 5,258,102 | $ | 1,032,944 | $ | 187,941 | $ | 13,323,520 | |||||||||||
Chief Executive Officer | 2009 | $ | 795,965 | $ | 829,038 | $ | 818,914 | $ | 1,606,687 | $ | 1,337,240 | $ | 222,299 | $ | 5,610,143 | |||||||||||
James M. Field | 2011 | $ | 561,275 | $ | 1,160,461 | $ | 556,629 | $ | 1,942,332 | $ | 289,164 | $ | 114,210 | $ | 4,624,071 | |||||||||||
Senior Vice President | 2010 | $ | 524,027 | $ | 296,153 | $ | 886,939 | $ | 1,593,653 | $ | 175,117 | $ | 178,320 | $ | 3,654,209 | |||||||||||
Chief Financial Officer | 2009 | $ | 492,321 | $ | 557,650 | $ | 550,845 | $ | 1,282,097 | $ | 281,811 | $ | 186,582 | $ | 3,351,306 | |||||||||||
David C. Everitt | 2011 | $ | 657,524 | $ | 1,191,600 | $ | 571,534 | $ | 2,105,955 | $ | 1,171,680 | $ | 38,695 | $ | 5,736,988 | |||||||||||
President, Agricultural | 2010 | $ | 628,704 | $ | 362,145 | $ | 1,084,556 | $ | 1,721,609 | $ | 882,582 | $ | 15,990 | $ | 4,695,586 | |||||||||||
Equipment Operations | 2009 | $ | 624,820 | $ | 829,474 | $ | 819,332 | $ | 1,378,309 | $ | 1,347,991 | $ | 22,178 | $ | 5,022,104 | |||||||||||
James R. Jenkins | 2011 | $ | 563,481 | $ | 1,139,830 | $ | 546,692 | $ | 1,946,082 | $ | 455,381 | $ | 100,687 | $ | 4,752,153 | |||||||||||
Senior Vice President | 2010 | $ | 548,400 | $ | 315,904 | $ | 946,040 | $ | 1,631,918 | $ | 392,962 | $ | 73,569 | $ | 3,908,793 | |||||||||||
General Counsel | 2009 | $ | 546,225 | $ | 665,896 | $ | 657,780 | $ | 1,324,864 | $ | 551,591 | $ | 145,041 | $ | 3,891,397 | |||||||||||
Michael J. Mack, Jr. | 2011 | $ | 606,336 | $ | 1,139,830 | $ | 546,692 | $ | 2,018,935 | $ | 588,742 | $ | 108,907 | $ | 5,009,442 | |||||||||||
President, WW Construction | 2010 | $ | 601,448 | $ | 339,886 | $ | 1,017,961 | $ | 1,678,493 | $ | 378,160 | $ | 85,712 | $ | 4,101,660 | |||||||||||
& Forestry Operations | 2009 | $ | 582,821 | $ | 682,357 | $ | 674,027 | $ | 1,342,033 | $ | 656,152 | $ | 163,490 | $ | 4,100,880 |
(1) | Includes amounts deferred by the NEO under the John Deere Voluntary Deferred Compensation Plan. For salary amounts deferred in fiscal 2011, see amounts listed in the first column of the Fiscal 2011 Deferred Compensation Table corresponding with Deferred Plan. | |
(2) | Represents the aggregate grant date fair value of PSUs and RSUs computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. The values in this column exclude the effect of estimated forfeitures. Assumptions made in the calculation of these amounts are included in Note 24, Stock Option and Restricted Stock Awards of our consolidated financial statements filed with the SEC on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2011. For PSUs, the value at the grant date is based upon the probable outcome of the performance metrics over the three-year performance period. RSUs will vest three years after the grant date. RSUs granted in fiscal 2011 must be held until five years after the grant date before they are settled in Deere common stock. RSUs granted in fiscal years 2009-2010 must be held until retirement or other permitted termination of employment. Refer to the Fiscal 2011 Grants of Plan-Based Awards table and footnote (7) thereto for a detailed description of the grant date fair value of stock awards. | |
If the highest level of payout were achieved, the value of the award as of the grant date for PSUs would be as follows: Allen ($7,990,280); Field ($1,519,774); Everitt ($1,560,610); Jenkins ($1,492,808); and Mack ($1,492,808). | ||
(3) | Represents the aggregate grant date fair value of stock options computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. The values in this column exclude the effect of estimated forfeitures. The assumptions made in valuing option awards reported in this column and a more detailed discussion of the binomial lattice option pricing model are described in Note 24, Stock Option and Restricted Stock Awards of our consolidated financial statements filed with the SEC on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2011. Refer to the Fiscal 2011 Grants of Plan-Based Awards table and footnote (7) thereto for a detailed description of the grant date fair value of stock awards. |
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(4) | Non-equity incentive plan compensation includes cash awards under the STI and MTI plans. Cash awards earned for the performance period ending in fiscal 2011 were paid to NEOs on December 15, 2011, unless deferred under the Voluntary Deferred Compensation Plan. | |
The following table shows the awards earned under the STI and MTI plans: |
STI (a) | MTI (b) | |||||||||||||||||||||
Actual | Target | Actual | Total Non- | |||||||||||||||||||
Target | Performance | Award as % | Performance | Equity Incentive | ||||||||||||||||||
Award as % | as % of | Award | of Median | as % of | Award | Plan | ||||||||||||||||
Name | of Salary | Target | Amount | Salary | Target | Amount | Compensation | |||||||||||||||
Samuel R. Allen | 125% | 200% | $ | 3,137,500 | 121% | 200% | $ | 2,904,000 | $ | 6,041,500 | ||||||||||||
James M. Field | 85% | 200% | $ | 954,168 | 93% | 200% | $ | 988,164 | $ | 1,942,332 | ||||||||||||
David C. Everitt | 85% | 200% | $ | 1,117,791 | 93% | 200% | $ | 988,164 | $ | 2,105,955 | ||||||||||||
James R. Jenkins | 85% | 200% | $ | 957,918 | 93% | 200% | $ | 988,164 | $ | 1,946,082 | ||||||||||||
Michael J. Mack, Jr. | 85% | 200% | $ | 1,030,771 | 93% | 200% | $ | 988,164 | $ | 2,018,935 |
(a) | Based on actual performance, as discussed in the CD&A under Fiscal 2011 Performance Results for STI, the NEOs earned an STI award equal to 200% of the target opportunity. | |||
(b) | Based on actual performance, as discussed in the CD&A under Fiscal 2011 Performance Results for MTI, the NEOs earned an MTI award equal to 200% of the target opportunity. | |||
(5) | The following table shows the change in pension value and above-market earnings on nonqualified deferred compensation during fiscal 2011: |
Nonqualified | |||||||||||||
Deferred | |||||||||||||
Change in | Compensation | ||||||||||||
Pension Value | Earnings | ||||||||||||
Name | (a) | (b) | Total | ||||||||||
Samuel R. Allen | $ | 2,219,567 | $ | 13,508 | $ | 2,233,075 | |||||||
James M. Field | $ | 284,345 | $ | 4,819 | $ | 289,164 | |||||||
David C. Everitt | $ | 1,157,328 | $ | 14,352 | $ | 1,171,680 | |||||||
James R. Jenkins | $ | 446,511 | $ | 8,870 | $ | 455,381 | |||||||
Michael J. Mack, Jr. | $ | 575,645 | $ | 13,097 | $ | 588,742 |
(a) | Represents the change in the actuarial present value of each NEOs accumulated benefit under all defined benefit plans from October 31, 2010 to October 31, 2011. The pension value calculations include the same assumptions as used in the U.S. pension plan valuations for financial reporting purposes. For more information on the assumptions, see footnote (4) under the Fiscal 2011 Pension Benefits Table. | ||
(b) | Represents above-market earnings on compensation that is deferred by the NEOs under our nonqualified deferred compensation plans. Above-market earnings represent the difference between the interest rate used to calculate earnings under the plan (prime rate plus 2% for amounts deferred prior to 2010) and 120% of the applicable federal long-term rate prescribed by the IRC. See the Fiscal 2011 Deferred Compensation Table for additional information. |
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(6) | The following table provides details about each component of the All Other Compensation column in the Fiscal 2011 Summary Compensation Table. |
Company | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Personal | Contributions | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Use of | to Defined | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Company | Financial | Medical | Misc | Contribution | Total All | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Aircraft | Planning | Relocation | Exams | Perquisites | Tax Gross Ups | Plans | Other | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Name | (a) | (b) | (c) | (d) | (e) | (f) | (g) | Compensation | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Samuel R. Allen | $ | 30,561 | $ | 4,602 | $ | | $ | 8,619 | $ | 670 | $ | | $ | 201,428 | $ | 245,880 | |||||||||||||||||||||
James M. Field | $ | | $ | 5,745 | $ | 5,761 | $ | 4,572 | $ | 22,992 | $ | 1,290 | $ | 73,850 | $ | 114,210 | |||||||||||||||||||||
David C. Everitt | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | 25,165 | $ | | $ | 13,530 | $ | 38,695 | |||||||||||||||||||||
James R. Jenkins | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | 24,709 | $ | | $ | 75,978 | $ | 100,687 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Michael J. Mack, Jr. | $ | | $ | 3,750 | $ | | $ | | $ | 23,401 | $ | | $ | 81,756 | $ | 108,907 |
(a) | Per IRS regulations, the NEOs recognize imputed income on the personal use of Deeres aircraft at rates established by the IRS. For SEC disclosure purposes, the cost of personal use of Deeres aircraft is calculated based on the incremental cost to Deere. To determine the incremental cost, Deere calculates the variable costs for fuel on a per mile basis, plus any direct trip expenses such as on-board catering, landing/ramp fees, and crew expenses. Fixed costs which do not change based on usage, such as pilot salaries, depreciation of aircraft, and maintenance costs are excluded. The personal usage of company aircraft for Mr. Allen represents less than 1% of overall aircraft usage and about 71 hours of travel. | ||
(b) | This column contains amounts Deere paid for financial planning assistance on behalf of the NEOs. The CEO may annually receive up to $15,000 of assistance and the other NEOs may receive up to $10,000 annually. | ||
(c) | This column contains amounts reimbursed for relocation. | ||
(d) | This column contains the amounts Deere paid for annual medical exams for NEOs. | ||
(e) | Miscellaneous perquisites include spousal attendance at company events, including attendance at a board meeting in China during fiscal 2011. | ||
(f) | Tax gross ups are provided when expenses are incurred for business purposes, but applicable tax rules result in imputed income to the employee. We have eliminated tax gross ups for spousal travel. Tax gross ups are provided only under the following circumstances as available to all employees: | ||
| |||
(g) | Deere makes contributions to the John Deere Savings and Investment Plan (SIP) for all employees. Deere also credits contributions to the John Deere Defined Contribution Restoration Plan for all employees covered by the Contemporary Option under the tax-qualified pension plan. Messrs. Allen, Field, Mack, and Jenkins are covered by the Contemporary Option. |
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Fiscal 2011 Grants of Plan-Based Awards
The following table provides additional information regarding fiscal 2011 grants of RSU, PSU, and stock option awards under the Omnibus Plan, and the potential range of awards that were approved in fiscal 2011 under STI and MTI for payout in future years. These awards are further described in the CD&A under Total Direct Compensation Elements.
All Other | All Other | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock | Option | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Awards: | Awards: | Exercise | Grant Date | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Estimated Future Payouts | Estimated Future Payouts | Number of | Number of | or Base | Fair Value | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Under Non-Equity | Under Equity | Shares of | Securities | Price of | of Stock | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Incentive Plan Awards | Incentive Plan Awards | Stock or | Underlying | Option | and Option | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(2) | (3) | Units | Options | Awards | Awards | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Grant Date | Threshold | Target | Maximum | Threshold | Target | Maximum | (#) | (#) | ($ / Sh) | ($) | |||||||||||||||||||||
Name | (1) | ($) | ($) | ($) | (#) | (#) | (#) | (4) | (5) | (6) | (7) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Samuel R. Allen | 11/30/2010-STI | $ | | $ | 1,568,750 | $ | 3,137,500 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
11/30/2010-MTI | $ | 1,100 | $ | 1,524,600 | $ | 3,049,200 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
12/8/2010 | 25,927 | $ | 2,089,975 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
12/8/2010 | | 41,482 | 82,964 | $ | 4,010,938 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
12/8/2010 | 114,253 | $80.61 | $ | 2,925,996 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 1,100 | $ | 3,093,350 | $ | 6,186,700 | | 41,482 | 82,964 | 25,927 | 114,253 | $ | 9,026,909 | |||||||||||||||||||
James M. Field | 11/30/2010-STI | $ | | $ | 477,084 | $ | 954,168 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
11/30/2010-MTI | $ | 400 | $ | 525,648 | $ | 1,051,296 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
12/8/2010 | 4,932 | $ | 397,569 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
12/8/2010 | | 7,890 | 15,780 | $ | 762,892 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
12/8/2010 | 21,735 | $80.61 | $ | 556,629 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 400 | $ | 1,002,732 | $ | 2,005,464 | | 7,890 | 15,780 | 4,932 | 21,735 | $ | 1,717,090 | |||||||||||||||||||
David C. Everitt | 11/30/2010-STI | $ | | $ | 558,895 | $ | 1,117,791 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
11/30/2010-MTI | $ | 400 | $ | 525,648 | $ | 1,051,296 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
12/8/2010 | 5,064 | $ | 408,209 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
12/8/2010 | | 8,102 | 16,204 | $ | 783,391 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
12/8/2010 | 22,317 | $80.61 | $ | 571,534 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 400 | $ | 1,084,543 | $ | 2,169,087 | | 8,102 | 16,204 | 5,064 | 22,317 | $ | 1,763,134 | |||||||||||||||||||
James R. Jenkins | 11/30/2010-STI | $ | | $ | 478,959 | $ | 957,918 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
11/30/2010-MTI | $ | 400 | $ | 525,648 | $ | 1,051,296 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
12/8/2010 | 4,844 | $ | 390,475 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
12/8/2010 | | 7,750 | 15,500 | $ | 749,355 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
12/8/2010 | 21,347 | $80.61 | $ | 546,692 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 400 | $ | 1,004,607 | $ | 2,009,214 | | 7,750 | 15,500 | 4,844 | 21,347 | $ | 1,686,522 | |||||||||||||||||||
Michael J. Mack, Jr. | 11/30/2010-STI | $ | | $ | 515,386 | $ | 1,030,771 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
11/30/2010-MTI | $ | 400 | $ | 525,648 | $ | 1,051,296 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
12/8/2010 | 4,844 | $ | 390,475 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
12/8/2010 | | 7,750 | 15,500 | $ | 749,355 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
12/8/2010 | 21,347 | $80.61 | $ | 546,692 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 400 | $ | 1,041,034 | $ | 2,082,067 | | 7,750 | 15,500 | 4,844 | 21,347 | $ | 1,686,522 |
(1) | For the non-equity incentive plan awards, the grant date is the date the Committee approved the range of the estimated potential future payouts for the performance periods noted under footnote (2) below. For equity awards, the grant date is seven calendar days after the first regularly scheduled Board meeting following the end of the fiscal year. | |
(2) | These columns show the range of potential payouts under the STI and MTI plans. | |
The performance period for STI in this table covers November 1, 2010 through October 31, 2011. For actual performance between threshold, target, and maximum, the STI award earned is prorated. |
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The range of MTI awards cover the three-year performance period beginning in fiscal 2011 and ending in fiscal 2013. Awards are not paid unless Deere generates at least $1 million of SVA for the performance period to avoid minimal payouts. The target MTI award will be earned if $2.465 billion of SVA is accumulated and the maximum MTI award will be earned if $4.93 billion or more is accumulated during the performance period. The amounts shown in the table represent potential MTI awards based on the median salary of the NEOs salary grade as of September 30, 2011. The actual MTI awards will depend upon Deeres actual SVA performance and the median salary of the NEOs salary grade as of September 30, 2012. | ||
(3) | Represents the potential payout range of PSUs granted in 2011. The number of shares that vest is equally based on total shareholder return and revenue growth, both relative to companies in the S&P Industrial Sector. Performance and payouts are determined independently for each metric. At the end of the three-year performance period, the actual award, delivered as Deere common stock, can range from 0% to 200% of the original grant. | |
(4) | Represents the number of RSUs granted during fiscal 2011 (in December 2010). RSUs will vest three years after the grant date, but must be held until five years after the grant date before they are settled in Deere common stock. Prior to settlement, each RSU entitles the individual to receive dividend equivalents in cash at the same time as dividends are paid on Deeres common stock. | |
(5) | Represents the number of options granted during fiscal 2011 (in December 2010). These options vest in approximately three equal installments on the first, second, and third anniversaries of the grant date. | |
(6) | The exercise price is the average of the high and low price of Deere common stock on the NYSE on the grant date. | |
(7) | For RSUs and options,
amounts shown represent the grant date fair value of the equity award
granted to the NEOs in fiscal 2011 calculated in accordance with FASB ASC
Topic 718. The values in this column exclude the effect of estimated
forfeitures. For RSUs, fair value is the market value of the underlying
stock on the grant date (which is the same as the exercise price in column
(6) for stock options). For options, the fair value on the grant date was
$25.61, which was calculated using the binomial lattice option pricing
model. | |
For PSUs, the fair value at the grant date is measured according to the requirements under FASB ASC Topic 718. The values in this column exclude the effect of estimated forfeitures. The grant date fair value of the PSUs, subject to the TSR metrics, was $107.31 based on a lattice valuation model excluding dividends. The grant date fair value of the PSUs, subject to the revenue growth metric, was $76.17 based on the market price of a share of underlying common stock excluding dividends. | ||
For additional information on the valuation assumptions, refer to Note 24, Stock Option and Restricted Stock Awards of Deeres consolidated financial statements filed with the SEC on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2011. |
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Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal 2011 Year-End
The following table itemizes outstanding PSUs, RSUs, and options held by the NEOs as of October 31, 2011.
Option Awards | Stock Awards | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Equity Incentive | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Equity Incentive | Plan Awards: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Plan Awards: | Market or | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Number of | Number of | Number of | Payout Value | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Securities | Securities | Unearned | Unearned | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Underlying | Underlying | Number of | Market Value of | Shares, Units | Shares, Units | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unexercised | Unexercised | Market Value | Shares or Units | Shares or Units | or Other | or Other | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Options | Options | Option | of Unexercised | Option | of Stock That | of Stock That | Rights That | Rights That | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Exercisable | Unexercisable | Exercise | Options | Expiration | Have Not Vested | Have Not Vested | Have Not Vested | Have Not Vested | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
(#) | (#) | Price | ($) | Date | (#) | ($) | (#) | ($) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Name | (1) | (1) | ($) | (2) | (3) | (4) | (5) | (6) | (7) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Samuel R. Allen | 19,922 | | $34.44 | $ | 825,966 | 7-Dec-15 | | $ | | | $ | | ||||||||||||||||||||
32,371 | | $48.38 | $ | 891,012 | 6-Dec-16 | | $ | | | $ | | |||||||||||||||||||||
28,808 | | $88.82 | $ | | 5-Dec-17 | | $ | | | $ | | |||||||||||||||||||||
42,011 | 20,693 | $39.67 | $ | 2,272,079 | 17-Dec-18 | 20,901 | $ | 1,586,386 | | $ | | |||||||||||||||||||||
91,580 | 177,773 | $52.25 | $ | 6,370,198 | 9-Dec-19 | 27,043 | $ | 2,052,564 | | $ | | |||||||||||||||||||||
114,253 | $80.61 | $ | | 8-Dec-20 | 25,927 | $ | 1,967,859 | 56,622 | $ | 4,297,610 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
214,692 | 312,719 | $ | 10,359,255 | 73,871 | $ | 5,606,809 | 56,622 | $ | 4,297,610 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
James M. Field | 17,086 | $34.44 | $ | 708,386 | 7-Dec-15 | | $ | | | $ | | |||||||||||||||||||||
13,380 | $48.38 | $ | 368,285 | 6-Dec-16 | | $ | | | $ | | ||||||||||||||||||||||
17,680 | $88.82 | $ | | 5-Dec-17 | | $ | | | $ | | ||||||||||||||||||||||
28,259 | 13,919 | $39.67 | $ | 1,528,320 | 17-Dec-18 | 14,059 | $ | 1,067,078 | | $ | | |||||||||||||||||||||
19,195 | 37,262 | $52.25 | $ | 1,335,208 | 9-Dec-19 | 5,668 | $ | 430,201 | | $ | | |||||||||||||||||||||
21,735 | $80.61 | $ | | 8-Dec-20 | 4,932 | $ | 374,339 | 10,769 | $ | 817,367 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
95,600 | 72,916 | $ | 3,940,199 | 24,659 | $ | 1,871,618 | 10,769 | $ | 817,367 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
David C. Everitt | 29,091 | $88.82 | $ | | 5-Dec-17 | | $ | | | $ | | |||||||||||||||||||||
20,703 | 20,703 | $39.67 | $ | 1,500,346 | 17-Dec-18 | 20,912 | $ | 1,587,221 | | $ | | |||||||||||||||||||||
23,472 | 45,564 | $52.25 | $ | 1,632,701 | 9-Dec-19 | 6,931 | $ | 526,063 | | $ | | |||||||||||||||||||||
22,317 | $80.61 | $ | | 8-Dec-20 | 5,064 | $ | 384,358 | 11,059 | $ | 839,378 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
73,266 | 88,584 | $ | 3,133,047 | 32,907 | $ | 2,497,642 | 11,059 | $ | 839,378 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
James R. Jenkins | 23,800 | $88.82 | $ | | 5-Dec-17 | | $ | | | $ | | |||||||||||||||||||||
16,621 | 16,621 | $39.67 | $ | 1,204,524 | 17-Dec-18 | 16,788 | $ | 1,274,209 | | $ | | |||||||||||||||||||||
20,474 | 39,745 | $52.25 | $ | 1,424,179 | 9-Dec-19 | 6,046 | $ | 458,891 | | $ | | |||||||||||||||||||||
21,347 | $80.61 | $ | | 8-Dec-20 | 4,844 | $ | 367,660 | 10,578 | $ | 802,870 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
60,895 | 77,713 | $ | 2,628,703 | 27,678 | $ | 2,100,760 | 10,578 | $ | 802,870 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Michael J. Mack, Jr. | 24,388 | $88.82 | $ | | 5-Dec-17 | | $ | | | $ | | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 17,032 | $39.67 | $ | 617,155 | 17-Dec-18 | 17,203 | $ | 1,305,708 | | $ | | |||||||||||||||||||||
22,030 | 42,767 | $52.25 | $ | 1,532,449 | 9-Dec-19 | 6,505 | $ | 493,730 | | $ | | |||||||||||||||||||||
21,347 | $80.61 | $ | | 8-Dec-20 | 4,844 | $ | 367,660 | 10,578 | $ | 802,870 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
46,418 | 81,146 | $ | 2,149,604 | 28,552 | $ | 2,167,098 | 10,578 | $ | 802,870 |
(1) | Options become vested and exercisable in approximately three equal installments on the first, second, and third anniversaries of the grant date. | |
(2) | The amount shown represents the number of options that have not been exercised (vested and unvested) multiplied by the difference between the closing price for Deere common stock on the NYSE on October 31, 2011, which was $75.90, and the option exercise price. No value is shown for underwater options. |
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(3) | Options expire ten years from the grant date. | |
(4) | RSUs vest three years from the grant date. RSUs granted in fiscal 2011 must be held for five years before they are settled in Deere common stock. RSUs granted in fiscal years 2008-2010 must be held until retirement or other permitted termination of employment before they are settled in Deere common stock. RSUs that have vested, but have not been settled in Deere common stock are included in the Fiscal 2011 Deferred Compensation Table. | |
(5) | The amount shown represents the number of RSUs that have not vested multiplied by the closing price for Deere common stock on the NYSE on October 31, 2011, which was $75.90. | |
(6) | For the PSUs granted on December 8, 2010, the amount represents actual achievement relative to the S&P Industrial Sector, assuming a truncated one-year performance measurement period from 11/1/10-10/31/11 (while the actual three-year performance period will end on December 8, 2013). Based upon this assumption, the amount of PSUs shown represents a payout of 73% of the target number of shares as determined by revenue growth and 200% of the target number of shares as determined by TSR. The final number of shares earned, if any, will be based upon performance as determined by revenue growth and TSR relative to the S&P Industrial Sector at the end of the performance period. | |
(7) | The amount shown represents the number of PSUs described in footnote (6) to this table multiplied by the closing price for Deere common stock on the NYSE on October 31, 2011, which was $75.90. |
Fiscal 2011 Option Exercises and Stock Vested
The following table provides information regarding option exercises and vesting of RSUs during fiscal 2011. These options and stock awards were granted in prior fiscal years and are not related to performance in fiscal 2011. No PSUs vested during fiscal 2011.
Option Awards | Stock Awards | ||||||||||||||
Number of | Number of | ||||||||||||||
Shares | Value | Shares | Value | ||||||||||||
Acquired on | Realized on | Acquired | Realized on | ||||||||||||
Exercise | Exercise | on Vesting | Vesting | ||||||||||||
(#) | ($) | (#) | ($) | ||||||||||||
Name | (1) | (2) | (3) | (4) | |||||||||||
Samuel R. Allen | | $ | | 9,603 | $ | 759,021 | |||||||||
James M. Field | 46,798 | $ | 2,894,521 | 5,893 | $ | 465,783 | |||||||||
David C. Everitt | | $ | | 9,697 | $ | 766,451 | |||||||||
James R. Jenkins | 95,704 | $ | 4,115,117 | 7,933 | $ | 627,024 | |||||||||
Michael J. Mack, Jr. | 52,437 | $ | 2,133,546 | 8,129 | $ | 642,516 |
(1) | Represents the total number of shares which were exercised before any withholding of shares to pay the exercise price and taxes. | |
(2) | Value realized on exercise is based on the market price upon exercise minus the exercise price (the grant price). | |
(3) | Represents the number of RSUs that vested during fiscal 2011. These RSUs were granted in December 2007 and vested in December 2010. Although they are vested, these RSUs will not be settled in Deere common stock until retirement or other permitted termination of employment. | |
(4) | Represents the number of RSUs vested multiplied by the closing price ($79.04) of Deere common stock on the NYSE as of the vesting date. |
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Pension Benefits
The NEOs are eligible to participate in pension plans that provide benefits based on years of service and pay. Pension benefits are provided under a qualified defined benefit pension plan called the John Deere Pension Plan for Salaried Employees (the Salaried Plan) and two nonqualified pension plans called the Senior Supplementary Pension Benefit Plan (the Supplementary Plan) and the John Deere Supplemental Pension Benefit Plan (the Supplemental Plan).
In 1996, we introduced a new pension option under the Salaried Plan known as the Contemporary Option. At that time, participants were given the choice between remaining in the existing Salaried Plan option known as the Traditional Option or choosing the new Contemporary Option. New employees hired after 1996 automatically participate in the Contemporary Option.
Salaried Plan
The Salaried Plan is a qualified plan subject to
certain IRC limitations on benefits and is subject to the Employee Retirement
Income Security Act. Deere makes contributions to, and benefits are paid from, a
tax-exempt pension trust. The two pension options, Traditional and Contemporary,
provided by the Salaried Plan can be summarized as follows:
The
formula for calculating monthly pension benefits under the qualified Traditional
Option is:
Final
Average Pay (up to IRC limits)
x
Years of Service
x
1.5%
Eligibility to retire with unreduced pension benefits under the Traditional Option is based on age and years of service. Participants who are age 60 with ten or more years of service, or who are age 65 with five or more years of service, receive unreduced pension benefits.
Under the Traditional Option, early retirement eligibility occurs upon the earlier of:
1) | having 30 years of service; | ||
2) | the sum of the participants years of service and age equaling 80 or more; or | ||
3) | reaching age 60 or more with ten years of service. |
Pension amounts are reduced 4% for each year that retirement benefits are received before age 60. Mr. Everitt is the only NEO eligible to retire early under the Traditional Option.
57
Contemporary Option
Under the
Contemporary Option, Career Average Pay replaces Final Average Pay in
computing retirement benefits. Career Average Pay is calculated using salary
plus STI (up to IRC limits). For participants electing the Contemporary Option,
the transition to Career Average Pay includes salary and STI awards from 1992
through 1997 plus all subsequent salary and STI award payments until retirement.
For salaried employees participating in this option, Deere makes enhanced
contributions to the employees 401(k) retirement savings account.
The formula for calculating benefits under the qualified Contemporary Option is:
Career Average Pay (up to IRC limits)
x Years of Service
x 1.5%
Eligibility to retire with unreduced benefits under the Contemporary Option occurs at age 67 for all employees hired on or after January 1, 1997. For employees hired before this date, the eligibility age for retiring with unreduced benefits is based on years of service as of January 1, 1997 and ranges from ages 60 to 67.
For employees hired before January 1, 1997 who were not eligible to retire on January 1, 1997, and for employees hired on or after January 1, 1997, early retirement eligibility under the Contemporary Option is the earlier of:
1) | age 55 with ten or more years of service; or | |
2) | age 65 with five or more years of service. |
Pension payments are reduced 4% for each year the employee is under the unreduced benefits age upon retirement. Messrs. Allen and Jenkins are the only NEOs currently eligible to retire early under the Contemporary Option.
Supplementary
Plan
The Supplementary Plan is an
unfunded, nonqualified excess defined benefit plan, which provides additional
pension benefits in a comparable amount to those benefits that the participant
would have received under the Salaried Plan in the absence of IRC limitations.
Benefit payments for the Supplementary Plan are made from the assets of
Deere.
The Supplementary Plan uses the same formula as the Salaried Plan to calculate the benefit payable, except that eligible earnings include only amounts above IRC qualified plan limits.
Supplemental
Plan
The Supplemental Plan is an unfunded,
nonqualified supplemental retirement plan for certain executives, including all
NEOs. Benefit payments for the Supplemental Plan are made from the assets of
Deere.
The formulas for calculating benefits under the Supplemental Plan for each pension option can be summarized as follows:
Contemporary Option
Career Average Pay
x Years of Service as grade 13 and above beginning 1 January 1997
x 0.5%
58
Traditional Option
The Supplemental
Plan benefit under the Traditional Option is derived by subtracting the value of
the Traditional Option (Salaried Plan plus Supplementary Plan) from the value of
the Contemporary Option (Salaried Plan, Supplementary Plan plus Supplemental
Plan) had it been chosen. If this amount is positive, the NEO will receive this
additional amount as a Supplemental Plan benefit.
Fiscal 2011 Pension Benefits Table
Number | Present | ||||||||
Assumed | of Years of | Value of | |||||||
Retirement | Credited | Accumulated | |||||||
Age | Service | Benefit | |||||||
Plan Name | (#) | (#) | ($) | ||||||
Name | (1) | (2) | (3) | (4) | |||||
Samuel R. Allen | Salaried Plan | 63 | 36.4 | $ | 1,116,965 | ||||
Contemporary Option | Supplementary Plan | 63 | 36.4 | $ | 4,742,280 | ||||
Supplemental Plan | 63 | 14.8 | $ | 775,745 | |||||
Total | $ | 6,634,990 | |||||||
James M. Field | Salaried Plan | 65 | 17.5 | $ | 265,855 | ||||
Contemporary Option | Supplementary Plan | 65 | 17.5 | $ | 461,611 | ||||
Supplemental Plan | 65 | 12.7 | $ | 184,753 | |||||
Total | $ | 912,219 | |||||||
David C. Everitt | Salaried Plan | 60 | 36.4 | $ | 1,812,916 | ||||
Traditional Option | Supplementary Plan | 60 | 36.4 | $ | 3,368,590 | ||||
Supplemental Plan | 63 | 14.8 | $ | 938,335 | |||||
Total | $ | 6,119,841 | |||||||
James R. Jenkins | Salaried Plan | 66 | 11.7 | $ | 425,234 | ||||
Contemporary Option | Supplementary Plan | 66 | 11.7 | $ | 1,704,809 | ||||
Supplemental Plan | 66 | 11.7 | $ | 730,437 | |||||
Total | $ | 2,860,480 | |||||||
Michael J. Mack Jr. | Salaried Plan | 65 | 25.3 | $ | 553,674 | ||||
Contemporary Option | Supplementary Plan | 65 | 25.3 | $ | 1,349,233 | ||||
Supplemental Plan | 65 | 14.8 | $ | 375,095 | |||||
Total | $ | 2,278,002 |
(1) | Benefits are provided under the Salaried Plan, the Supplementary Plan, and the Supplemental Plan as described in the narrative preceding the table. |
(2) | The assumed retirement age is the earliest age at which the NEO could retire without any benefit reduction due to age or normal retirement age, if earlier. For Mr. Jenkins, this represents his current age. The assumed retirement age may vary depending on whether the NEO is covered by the Traditional Option or the Contemporary Option as explained in the narrative preceding the table. |
(3) | Years and months of service credit under each plan as of October 31, 2011. The years of credited service are equal to years of service with Deere for the Salaried and Supplementary Plan. Service credit under the Supplemental Plan is based on service as a grade 13 or above, beginning January 1, 1997. |
(4) | The actuarial present value of the accumulated benefit is shown as of October 31, 2011, and is provided as a straight-life annuity for the qualified pension plan and a lump sum for nonqualified pension plan benefits. Pension benefits are not reduced for any social security benefits or other offset amounts that the NEO may receive. |
59
The actuarial present value is calculated by estimating expected future payments starting at an assumed retirement age, weighting the estimated payments by the estimated probability of surviving to each post-retirement age, and discounting the weighted payments at an assumed discount rate to reflect the time value of money. The actuarial present value represents an estimate of the amount which, if invested today at the discount rate, would be sufficient on an average basis to provide estimated future payments based on the current accumulated benefit. Actual benefit present values will vary from these estimates depending on many factors, including actual retirement age.
The following assumptions were used to calculate the present value of the accumulated benefit. References to the assumptions used in fiscal years 2009 and 2010 are included below since the change in the accumulated benefit between fiscal years is included in the Fiscal 2011 Summary Compensation Table under the column Change in Pension Value:
Nonqualified Deferred Compensation
The Fiscal 2011 Deferred Compensation Table below shows information about three programs:
1) | the John Deere Voluntary Deferred Compensation Plan (Deferred Plan), a nonqualified deferred compensation plan; | |
2) | the John Deere Defined Contribution Restoration Plan (DCRP), a nonqualified savings plan; and | |
3) | deferred RSUs. |
Deferred Plan
Under the Deferred Plan, through fiscal 2008, NEOs could defer
any component (in 5% increments up to 95%) of their cash compensation, which
includes base salary, STI, and MTI. For deferrals elected after 2008, up to 70%
of base salary could be deferred while STI and MTI awards could be deferred up
to 95%. On the first day of each calendar quarter, the balance in the accounts
under the Deferred Plan is credited with interest. For deferrals made through
calendar 2009, interest is credited at the prime rate (as determined by the
Federal Reserve Statistical Release for the prior month) plus 2%, as of the last
day of the preceding quarter. For all of fiscal 2011, the rate credited on
deferrals elected through calendar 2009 was 5.25%. For deferrals made after
December 31, 2009, the deferred amounts earn interest based on the Moodys A
rated Corporate Bond Rate.
An election to defer salary must be made prior to the beginning of the calendar year in which deferral occurs. An election to defer STI must be made prior to the beginning of the fiscal year upon which the award is based. An election to defer MTI must be made prior to the close of the fiscal year preceding the calendar year of payment. Participants may elect to receive the deferred funds in a lump sum or
60
in equal annual installments not to exceed ten years. Distribution must be completed within ten years following retirement. All deferral elections and associated distribution schedules are irrevocable. This plan is unfunded and participant accounts are at-risk in the event of the Companys bankruptcy.
DCRP
The DCRP is designed to allow executives participating in our
Contemporary Option to defer employee contributions and receive employer
matching contributions on up to 6% of eligible earnings that are otherwise
limited by the IRC. For DCRP purposes, eligible earnings include base salary,
STI, and commission compensation. None of the NEOs receive commission
compensation. The 401(k) deferral percentage selected by the employee in place
each October 31st is used during the following calendar year to calculate the
DCRP employee contribution. This plan is unfunded and participant accounts are
at-risk in the event of the Companys bankruptcy.
Two investment options are available under the DCRP: the prime rate, as determined by the Federal Reserve Statistical Release for the prior month, plus 2%; or a rate of return based on the S&P 500 Index for the prior month. Participants may choose either investment option for any portion of their account. Participants can change investment options each calendar year. During fiscal 2011, the annualized rates of return under the two options were as follows:
Earnings Under Investment Options | ||||
Prime plus 2% | S&P 500 Index | |||
November-10 | 5.25% | 52.94% | ||
December-10 | 5.25% | 27.96% | ||
January-11 | 5.25% | 42.69% | ||
February-11 | 5.25% | 39.71% | ||
March-11 | 5.25% | 36.02% | ||
April-11 | 5.25% | -15.10% | ||
May-11 | 5.25% | 24.86% | ||
June-11 | 5.25% | 6.13% | ||
July-11 | 5.25% | -45.75% | ||
August-11 | 5.25% | 35.33% | ||
September-11 | 5.25% | -126.67% | ||
October-11 | 5.25% | -11.58% |
Distribution options for participants eligible for retirement as of December 31, 2005, who made an election prior to December 31, 2005, consist of a single lump sum payment, a specified dollar amount each year, or decrementing withdrawals over a specified number of years. For all other participants, distribution options consist of a lump sum distribution one year following the date of separation, or, in the case of retirement, five annual installments, beginning one year following the retirement date.
Deferred RSUs
There are two scenarios under which deferred RSUs can appear
in the following table:
Grant Date | Date Vested | Restriction Period | |||
December 2002 | December 2005 | Until retirement or no longer active employee | |||
December 2006 | December 2009 | Five years (December 2010) | |||
December 2007 | December 2010 | Until retirement or no longer active employee |
The Deferred RSUs will not be settled in Deere common stock until either the election period or the restriction period expires.
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Fiscal 2011 Deferred Compensation Table
Aggregate | |||||||||||||||||||||
Executive | Registrant | Earnings in | Aggregate | Aggregate | |||||||||||||||||
Contributions | Contributions | Last Fiscal | Withdrawals / | Balance at | |||||||||||||||||
in Last FY | in Last FY | Year | Distributions | Last FYE | |||||||||||||||||
($) | ($) | ($) | ($) | ($) | |||||||||||||||||
Name | Plan | (1) | (2) | (3) | (4) | (5) | |||||||||||||||
Samuel R. Allen | DCRP Plan | $ | 177,060 | $ | 180,764 | $ | 95,932 | $ | | $ | 1,990,404 | ||||||||||
Deferred RSUs | $ | | $ | 759,021 | $ | 30,055 | $ | 1,633,744 | $ | 3,117,137 | |||||||||||
Total | $ | 177,060 | $ | 939,785 | $ | 125,987 | $ | 1,633,744 | $ | 5,107,541 | |||||||||||
James M. Field | DCRP Plan | $ | 51,631 | $ | 53,294 | $ | 34,180 | $ | | $ | 704,183 | ||||||||||
Deferred RSUs | $ | | $ | 465,783 | $ | 2,535 | $ | 462,353 | $ | 785,793 | |||||||||||
Total | $ | 51,631 | $ | 519,077 | $ | 36,715 | $ | 462,353 | $ | 1,489,976 | |||||||||||
David C. Everitt | Deferred Plan | $ | | $ | | $ | 82,719 | $ | | $ | 1,627,629 | ||||||||||
Deferred RSUs | $ | | $ | 766,451 | $ | (128,005 | ) | $ | | $ | 8,963,259 | ||||||||||
Total | $ | | $ | 766,451 | $ | (45,286 | ) | $ | | $ | 10,590,888 | ||||||||||
James R. Jenkins | DCRP Plan | $ | 54,059 | $ | 55,432 | $ | 63,069 | $ | | $ | 1,286,549 | ||||||||||
Deferred RSUs | $ | | $ | 627,024 | $ | 34,750 | $ | 1,626,436 | $ | 3,003,287 | |||||||||||
Total | $ | 54,059 | $ | 682,456 | $ | 97,819 | $ | 1,626,436 | $ | 4,289,836 | |||||||||||
Michael J. Mack, Jr. | Deferred Plan | $ | | $ | | $ | 79,890 | $ | | $ | 1,571,973 | ||||||||||
DCRP Plan | $ | 59,425 | $ | 61,395 | $ | 39,914 | $ | | $ | 1,007,056 | |||||||||||
Deferred RSUs | $ | | $ | 642,516 | $ | 24,635 | $ | 1,121,697 | $ | 1,512,763 | |||||||||||
Total | $ | 59,425 | $ | 703,911 | $ | 144,439 | $ | 1,121,697 | $ | 4,091,792 |
(1) | The amounts in this column represent employee compensation deferrals that are included in the Fiscal 2011 Summary Compensation Table under the Salary and Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation columns. |
(2) | The amounts in this column associated with the DCRP Plan represent Deeres contributions during the fiscal year as included in the Fiscal 2011 Summary Compensation Table under the All Other Compensation column. The amounts in this column associated with Deferred RSUs represent RSUs that vested in the current fiscal year, but have not been converted into Deere common stock. The amounts are equal to those reported in the Fiscal 2011 Option Exercises and Stock Vested table under the column Value Realized on Vesting. |
(3) | For rates of return on account balances under the Deferred Plan and the DCRP, see the Earnings Under Investment Options chart in the narrative preceding the Fiscal 2011 Deferred Compensation Table. For the Deferred RSU accounts, the earnings represent the change in the intrinsic value of the RSUs. |
(4) | Represents the settlement of RSUs that were granted in December 2005. For employees who did not choose to defer settlement beyond the minimum restriction period, as stated above, these RSUs became unrestricted on December 7, 2010. These RSUs were settled using a stock price of $81.20, which was the average of the high and low price for Deere common stock on that date. |
(5) | Of the aggregate balance, the following amounts were reported as compensation to each respective NEO in the Summary Compensation Table in prior years: Mr. Allen, $2,537,361; Mr. Field, $1,006,620; Mr. Everitt, $1,209,975; Mr. Jenkins, $1,170,701; and Mr. Mack, $1,226,168. |
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Fiscal 2011 Potential Payments upon Change in Control
The CIC Program includes a double trigger approach, under which participants will receive severance benefits only if both a change in control and qualifying termination occur. A qualifying termination is either:
The CIC Program defines the following as change in control events:
Benefits provided under the CIC program and other benefit plans are described in the footnotes to the table. Although not reflected in the table, the CIC Program provides that Deere will pay the executives reasonable legal fees and expenses if the executive must enforce the program terms. Under the CIC Program, the executives agree: (a) not to disclose or to use for his or her own purposes confidential and proprietary. Deere information; and (b) for a period of two years following termination of employment, not to induce Deere employees to leave Deere, or to interfere with Deeres business.
In addition, the Omnibus Plan and the Deferred Plan each contain change in control provisions that may trigger payments under these plans. Under the Omnibus Plan, unless the Board determines otherwise, and regardless of whether the employee was terminated or not, all then-outstanding equity awards that were granted before February 24, 2010, would vest and restriction periods would end upon a change in control. All outstanding RSUs would be cashed out as of the date of the change in control and the employee would have the right to exercise all outstanding options. Such potential payments are disclosed in the table below adjacent to Change in Control only. For awards made under the Omnibus Plan on and after February 24, 2010, the foregoing provisions will apply only if there is both a change in control and the employee experiences a Qualifying Termination. MTI awards continue to provide for payment upon a change in control based on actual performance results to date for all performance periods then in progress. Under the Deferred Plan, in the event of certain changes in control, the Committee may elect to terminate the plan within 12 months following the change in control and distribute all account balances, or the Committee may decide to keep the Deferred Plan in effect and modify the Deferred Plan to reflect the impact of the change in control.
The following table includes estimated potential payments that would have been due to each NEO if a change in control event had occurred and, if applicable, the NEO experienced a Qualifying Termination, as of October 31, 2011. Although the calculations are intended to provide reasonable estimates of the potential payments, they are based on numerous assumptions, as described in the footnotes, and may not represent the actual amount each NEO would receive if a change in control
63
occurred. As explained in the footnotes, the payments listed represent the incremental amounts due to NEOs above what the NEOs would have received without the change in control. Not included in this table are the following payments to which the NEO is already entitled and are reported in previous sections of this Proxy Statement:
Defined | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock | Stock | Welfare | Contribution | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Salary | STI | MTI | Awards | Options | Benefits | Plans | Total | |||||||||||||||||||
Name | (1) | (2) | (3) | (4) | (5) | (6) | (7) | Payments | ||||||||||||||||||
Samuel R. Allen | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
~Change in Control only | $ | | $ | | $ | 1,567,276 | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | 1,567,276 | ||||||||||
~Change in Control and | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Qualifying Termination | $ | 3,780,000 | $ | 4,706,250 | $ | 1,567,276 | $ | 3,148,484 | $ | | $ | 36,986 | $ | 604,284 | $ | 13,843,280 | ||||||||||
James M. Field | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
~Change in Control only | $ | | $ | | $ | 1,316,108 | $ | 1,497,279 | $ | 1,385,601 | $ | | $ | | $ | 4,198,988 | ||||||||||
~Change in Control and | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Qualifying Termination | $ | 1,696,800 | $ | 1,431,252 | $ | 1,316,108 | $ | 2,470,469 | $ | 1,385,601 | $ | 40,194 | $ | 221,550 | $ | 8,561,974 | ||||||||||
David C. Everitt | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
~Change in Control only | $ | | $ | | $ | 540,362 | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | 540,362 | ||||||||||
~Change in Control and | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Qualifying Termination | $ | 1,980,300 | $ | 1,676,685 | $ | 540,362 | $ | 614,942 | $ | | $ | 31,803 | $ | 40,590 | $ | 4,884,682 | ||||||||||
James R. Jenkins | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
~Change in Control only | $ | | $ | | $ | 540,362 | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | 540,362 | ||||||||||
~Change in Control and | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Qualifying Termination | $ | 1,694,700 | $ | 1,436,877 | $ | 540,362 | $ | 588,225 | $ | | $ | 30,981 | $ | 227,934 | $ | 4,519,079 | ||||||||||
Michael J. Mack, Jr. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
~Change in Control only | $ | | $ | | $ | 1,316,108 | $ | 1,799,437 | $ | 1,628,595 | $ | | $ | | $ | 4,744,140 | ||||||||||
~Change in Control and | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Qualifying Termination | $ | 1,823,400 | $ | 1,546,158 | $ | 1,316,108 | $ | 2,755,322 | $ | 1,628,595 | $ | 40,558 | $ | 245,268 | $ | 9,355,409 |
(1) | In the event of a change in control and qualifying termination, the CIC Program provides for a lump sum payment of three times the annual base salary. |
(2) | In the event of a change in control and qualifying termination, the CIC Program provides for a lump sum payment of three times the target STI bonus amount for the fiscal year in which the termination occurs. In addition, the NEO is entitled to a prorated STI award for the current year. Since the change in control calculations in this table are made as of the end of the fiscal year, the prorated award for the current year is equal to the STI earned for the current fiscal year as reported in the Fiscal 2011 Summary Compensation Table under the column Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation and is not duplicated in this table. |
(3) | The MTI plan contains a change in control provision that entitles participants, as of the date of a change in control, to a lump sum MTI payment based on actual performance results to date for all performance periods then in progress. The payout for the four-year performance period ending October 31, 2011, is reported in the Fiscal 2011 Summary Compensation Table under the column Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation and is not duplicated in this table. For Messrs. Field and Mack, the amount shown in this table represents the payout for the three remaining performance periods. In the event of death, disability, or retirement, employees who were eligible on September 30th in the year prior to a payout receive an award. Since Messrs. Allen, Everitt, |
64
and Jenkins are eligible for retirement and would each be entitled to the 2009-2012 MTI payout regardless of a change in control event, the amounts shown in the table for them represent the payout for the last two remaining performance periods. | |
(4) | In the event of a change in control only: |
In the event of a change in control and qualifying termination:
For purposes of the table, all PSUs
and RSUs that are assumed to vest are valued based on the closing price
for Deere common stock on the NYSE on October 31, 2011, which was $75.90.
Since Messrs. Allen, Everitt, and Jenkins are eligible for retirement and
RSUs will continue to vest over the three-year period, regardless if they
continue to provide services, there is no incremental benefit of the
accelerated vesting for these individuals. Vested RSUs are not included
since they have been earned and are included on the Deferred Compensation
Table. Unvested RSUs are included in the Outstanding Equity Awards at
Fiscal 2011 Year-End table. |
(5) | In the event of a change in control only: |
In the event of a change in control and qualifying termination:
Since Messrs. Allen, Everitt, and Jenkins are eligible for retirement, and stock options vest immediately upon retirement, there is no incremental benefit of the accelerated vesting for these individuals. For Messrs. Field and Mack, who are not eligible for retirement, the amount represents the number of outstanding, unexercisable options multiplied by the difference between the closing price for Deere common stock on the NYSE on October 31, 2011, which was $75.90, and the option exercise prices. These amounts are included in the Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal 2011 Year-End table. | |
(6) | In the event of a change in control and qualifying termination, the CIC Program provides for continuation of health care, life, accidental death and dismemberment, and disability insurance for three full years at the same premium cost and coverage. This benefit will be discontinued if the NEO receives similar benefits from a subsequent employer during this three-year period. |
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(7) | In the event of a change in control and qualifying termination, the CIC Program includes cash payment equal to three times Deeres contributions on behalf of each of the NEOs under our defined contribution plans for the plan year preceding termination (or, if greater, for the plan year immediately preceding the change in control). |
Fiscal 2011 Potential Payments Upon Termination of Employment Other than Following a Change in Control
The following table summarizes the estimated payments to be made to NEOs under our plans or established practices in the event of termination of employment for death, disability, retirement, termination without cause, termination for cause, and voluntary separation. Although the calculations are intended to provide reasonable estimates of the potential payments, they are based on numerous assumptions, as described in the footnotes, and may not represent the actual amount NEOs would receive in the event of an eligible termination.
The amounts shown assume the termination event occurred on, and the NEO was actively employed until, October 31, 2011.
Present Value | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock | Stock | Deferred | of Accumulated | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Salary | STI | MTI | Awards | Options | Compensation | Pension Benefit | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||
Name | (1) | (2) | (3) | (4) | (5) | (6) | (7) | Payments | ||||||||||||||||||||
Samuel R. Allen | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Death | $ | | $ | 3,137,500 | $ | 5,153,989 | $ | 12,135,196 | $ | 10,359,255 | $ | 1,990,404 | $ | 4,488,333 | $ | 37,264,677 | ||||||||||||
Disability | $ | 3,621,767 | $ | 3,137,500 | $ | 5,153,989 | $ | 13,021,556 | $ | 10,359,255 | $ | 1,990,404 | $ | 8,312,094 | $ | 45,596,564 | ||||||||||||
Retirement | $ | 3,137,500 | $ | 5,153,989 | $ | 13,021,556 | $ | 10,359,255 | $ | 1,990,404 | $ | 8,134,475 | $ | 41,797,179 | ||||||||||||||
Termination Without Cause | $ | 1,260,000 | $ | 3,137,500 | $ | 2,904,000 | $ | 3,117,137 | $ | | $ | 1,990,404 | $ | 8,134,475 | $ | 20,543,516 | ||||||||||||
Termination For Cause | $ | | $ | 3,137,500 | $ | 2,904,000 | $ | 3,117,137 | $ | | $ | 1,990,404 | $ | 8,134,475 | $ | 19,283,516 | ||||||||||||
Voluntary Separation (8) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
James M. Field | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Death | $ | | $ | 954,168 | $ | 1,763,910 | $ | 3,248,216 | $ | 3,940,199 | $ | 704,183 | $ | 572,708 | $ | 11,183,384 | ||||||||||||
Disability | $ | 1,677,575 | $ | 954,168 | $ | 1,763,910 | $ | 3,474,778 | $ | 3,940,199 | $ | 704,183 | $ | 2,175,768 | $ | 14,690,581 | ||||||||||||
Retirement (9) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Termination Without Cause | $ | 565,600 | $ | 954,168 | $ | 988,164 | $ | 785,793 | $ | | $ | 704,183 | $ | 1,045,618 | $ | 5,043,526 | ||||||||||||
Termination For Cause | $ | | $ | 954,168 | $ | 988,164 | $ | 785,793 | $ | | $ | 704,183 | $ | 1,045,618 | $ | 4,477,926 | ||||||||||||
Voluntary Separation | $ | | $ | 954,168 | $ | 988,164 | $ | 785,793 | $ | | $ | 704,183 | $ | 1,045,618 | $ | 4,477,926 | ||||||||||||
David C. Everitt | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Death | $ | | $ | 1,117,791 | $ | 1,763,910 | $ | 12,007,532 | $ | 3,133,047 | $ | 1,627,629 | $ | 3,273,053 | $ | 22,922,962 | ||||||||||||
Disability | $ | 2,001,604 | $ | 1,117,791 | $ | 1,763,910 | $ | 12,300,278 | $ | 3,133,047 | $ | 1,627,629 | $ | 5,412,526 | $ | 27,356,785 | ||||||||||||
Retirement | $ | | $ | 1,117,791 | $ | 1,763,910 | $ | 12,300,278 | $ | 3,133,047 | $ | 1,627,629 | $ | 5,931,538 | $ | 25,874,193 | ||||||||||||
Termination Without Cause | $ | 660,100 | $ | 1,117,791 | $ | 988,164 | $ | 8,963,259 | $ | | $ | 1,627,629 | $ | 5,931,538 | $ | 19,288,481 | ||||||||||||
Termination For Cause | $ | | $ | 1,117,791 | $ | 988,164 | $ | 8,963,259 | $ | | $ | 1,627,629 | $ | 5,931,538 | $ | 18,628,381 | ||||||||||||
Voluntary Separation (8) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
James R. Jenkins | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Death | $ | | $ | 957,918 | $ | 1,763,910 | $ | 5,657,662 | $ | 2,628,703 | $ | 1,286,549 | $ | 1,677,200 | $ | 13,971,942 | ||||||||||||
Disability | $ | | $ | 957,918 | $ | 1,763,910 | $ | 5,906,918 | $ | 2,628,703 | $ | 1,286,549 | $ | 2,255,792 | $ | 14,799,790 | ||||||||||||
Retirement | $ | 957,918 | $ | 1,763,910 | $ | 5,906,918 | $ | 2,628,703 | $ | 1,286,549 | $ | 3,025,791 | $ | 15,569,789 | ||||||||||||||
Termination Without Cause | $ | 564,900 | $ | 957,918 | $ | 988,164 | $ | 3,003,287 | $ | | $ | 1,286,549 | $ | 3,025,791 | $ | 9,826,609 | ||||||||||||
Termination For Cause | $ | | $ | 957,918 | $ | 988,164 | $ | 3,003,287 | $ | | $ | 1,286,549 | $ | 3,025,791 | $ | 9,261,709 | ||||||||||||
Voluntary Separation (8) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Michael J. Mack, Jr. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Death | $ | | $ | 1,030,771 | $ | 1,763,910 | $ | 4,218,143 | $ | 2,149,604 | $ | 2,579,029 | $ | 1,420,583 | $ | 13,162,040 | ||||||||||||
Disability | $ | 1,932,905 | $ | 1,030,771 | $ | 1,763,910 | $ | 4,482,730 | $ | 2,149,604 | $ | 2,579,029 | $ | 3,563,035 | $ | 17,501,984 | ||||||||||||
Retirement (9) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Termination Without Cause | $ | 607,800 | $ | 1,030,771 | $ | 988,164 | $ | 1,512,763 | $ | | $ | 2,579,029 | $ | 2,586,867 | $ | 9,305,394 | ||||||||||||
Termination For Cause | $ | | $ | 1,030,771 | $ | 988,164 | $ | 1,512,763 | $ | | $ | 2,579,029 | $ | 2,586,867 | $ | 8,697,594 | ||||||||||||
Voluntary Separation | $ | | $ | 1,030,771 | $ | 988,164 | $ | 1,512,763 | $ | | $ | 2,579,029 | $ | 2,586,867 | $ | 8,697,594 |
66
(1) | The NEOs do not have employment agreements. However, we have severance guidelines that provide compensation if termination is initiated by Deere for reasons other than cause. Our severance guidelines provide for payment of one-half month of salary plus another one-half month of salary for each complete year of employment, up to a maximum of one years salary. We may elect to pay severance in either a lump sum or via salary continuance, unless the amount of severance exceeds two times the applicable limit under Section 401(a)(17) of the IRC, in which case severance will be paid in a lump sum. |
Under our Long-Term Disability Plan, if disabled before age 64, NEOs receive monthly benefits until age 65 equal to 60% of their salary plus the average of the three STI awards received immediately prior to the start of disability. The amount shown for disability represents the present value of the monthly benefit from the time of the disability, assumed to be October 31, 2011, until the time the NEO attains age 65. | |
(2) | Under all termination events, the amount of STI earned for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2011 would be payable in a lump sum generally within two months after the end of the fiscal year, but in no event later than March 15th of the calendar year following the end of the fiscal year. This amount is also reported in the Fiscal 2011 Summary Compensation Table under the column Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation. |
(3) | Under all termination events, the amount of MTI earned for the performance period ending on October 31, 2011 would be payable in a lump sum generally within two months after the end of the fiscal year, but in no event later than March 15th of the calendar year following the end of the fiscal year. This amount is also reported in the Fiscal 2011 Summary Compensation Table under the column Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation. Eligibility for payment of an MTI award is established on September 30th of the year preceding a payout. In the event of death, disability, or retirement, employees who were eligible on September 30th in the year prior to a payout receive an award. The payout for the performance period ending October 31, 2012, has been estimated based on median salaries as of September 30, 2011 and SVA performance through the end of fiscal 2011 and does not include any results for fiscal 2012. The actual payment for the performance period ending October 31, 2012 would include results for fiscal 2012 and would be paid in a lump sum within the time period described above. |
(4) | In the event of death, a prorated number of unvested RSUs awarded in fiscal years 2009 and 2010 will vest based on the number of months lapsed since the grant date. The remaining unvested RSUs will be forfeited. Restrictions will lapse in the January following death. For RSUs and PSUs awarded after February 2010, NEOs retain 1/12th of the RSUs and PSUs awarded during the year for each month the employee remains active. The remaining units are forfeited. Restrictions on RSUs will lapse one month following death, at which time the vested RSUs will be converted to shares of common stock. The PSUs that are not forfeited convert to shares at the end of the three-year performance period based on the performance metrics. |
In the event of disability or retirement, unvested RSUs awarded in fiscal years 2009 and 2010 will continue to vest over the three-year period and will be converted to shares of Deere common stock at the end of the restriction period. For RSUs and PSUs awarded after February 2010, an executive retains 1/12th of the RSUs and PSUs awarded during the year for each month the employee remains active. The remaining units are forfeited. In the event of retirement, the RSUs that are not forfeited will continue to vest over the three-year period and will be converted to shares of Deere common stock at the end of the restriction period. In the event of disability, restrictions on RSUs will lapse one month following disability, at which time the vested RSUs will be converted to shares of common stock. The PSUs that are not forfeited convert to shares at the end of the three-year performance period based on the performance metrics. |
67
In the event of termination with or without
cause or voluntary separation, any vested RSUs will be cashed out. All
unvested PSUs and RSUs will be forfeited. The amounts shown in the table
correspond to vested RSUs (including RSUs that vest as a result of the
termination of employment). | ||
All amounts shown in the table are based on the closing price for Deere common stock on the NYSE on October 31, 2011, which was $75.90. | ||
(5) | In the event of death, disability, or retirement, all outstanding stock options vest immediately. In the case of death, the heirs have one year to exercise options. In the case of disability or retirement, options expire within five years. For option grants to NEOs during or after fiscal 2011, in the year of retirement, an executive earns 1/12th of the stock options awarded during the year for each month the employee remains active. The remaining options are forfeited. The amount shown in this table represents the number of stock options multiplied by the difference between the closing price for Deere common stock on the NYSE on October 31, 2011, which was $75.90, and the option exercise price. These outstanding stock options are reported in the Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal 2011 Year-End table. In the event of a termination other than for death, disability, or retirement, all outstanding stock options are forfeited. | |
(6) | In all cases, balances held in the nonqualified deferred compensation plans are payable to the employee. These amounts are reported in the Fiscal 2011 Deferred Compensation Table under Deferred Plan and DCRP. The Deferred RSUs reported in the Fiscal 2011 Deferred Compensation Table are reported in this table under the column Stock Awards. | |
(7) | The present value of the accumulated pension benefit was calculated using the following assumptions: | |
Following are additional explanations related to the various scenarios:
|
(8) | Since Messrs. Allen, Everitt, and Jenkins are eligible for early retirement, the scenario for Voluntary Separation is not applicable. Under this scenario, these NEOs would retire. | |
(9) | Since Messrs. Field and Mack are not eligible for normal or early retirement, this scenario is not applicable. |
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The following table shows the total number of outstanding options and shares available for future issuances under our equity compensation plans as of October 31, 2011:
EQUITY COMPENSATION PLAN INFORMATION | |||||||||||||
Number of | |||||||||||||
Securities to be | Number of Securities | ||||||||||||