<PAGE> 1
SCHEDULE 14A
(RULE 14a-101)
INFORMATION REQUIRED IN PROXY STATEMENT
SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION
PROXY STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 14(a) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (AMENDMENT NO. )
Filed by the Registrant [X]
Filed by a Party other than the Registrant [ ]
Check the appropriate box:
[ ] Preliminary Proxy Statement [ ] Confidential, for Use of the
Commission Only (as permitted by
Rule 14a-6(e)(2))
[X] Definitive Proxy Statement
[ ] Definitive Additional Materials
[ ] Soliciting Material Pursuant to Rule 14a-11(c) or Rule 14a-12
Hercules Incorporated
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement if other than the Registrant)
Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box):
[X] No fee required.
[ ] Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(4) and
0-11.
(1) Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies:
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(2) Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies:
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(3) Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed
pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (Set forth the amount on which the
filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined):
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(4) Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction:
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(5) Total fee paid:
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ ] Fee paid previously with preliminary materials.
[ ] Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange Act
Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee
was paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration
statement number, or the form or schedule and the date of its filing.
(1) Amount previously paid:
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(2) Form, schedule or registration statement no.:
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(3) Filing party:
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(4) Date filed:
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<PAGE> 2
[HERCULES LOGO]
[PHOTO OF MEETING]
1997 PROXY STATEMENT AND NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
<PAGE> 3
[PHOTO SPECIMEN STOCK CERTIFICATE]
In January 1996 new shareholders in Hercules received our updated stock
certificate which is featured above. The Proxy Statement cover
duplicates the vignette design representing the diverse work teams
globally within Hercules.
<PAGE> 4
DEUTSCH
FRANCAIS
[CHINESE SYMBOLS]
ITALIANO
ESPANOL
[CHINESE SYMBOLS]
SVENSKA
THE PLAIN ENGLISH OF SHAREHOLDER VALUE
NEDERLANDS
[CHINESE SYMBOLS]
PORTUGUES
DANSK
SUOMEA
PYCCKHH
<PAGE> 5
[HERCULES LOGO] [HERCULES LETTERHEAD]
March 14, 1997
Dear Shareholder:
You are cordially invited to attend our Annual Meeting of Shareholders
at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 24, 1997, at the Delaware Art Museum, 2301
Kentmere Parkway, Wilmington, DE. We will review Hercules' 1996 performance and
answer your questions. Enclosed with this Proxy Statement are your voting card
and the 1996 Annual Report.
Hercules has taken the challenge to be one of the first to write a
proxy statement in "plain English." We hope you like this new simplified format
and we welcome your comments.
I look forward to seeing you on April 24 and would like to take this
opportunity to remind you that your vote is important.
Sincerely,
/s/ R. Keith Elliott
<PAGE> 6
[4 -- BLANK]
<PAGE> 7
[HERCULES LOGO]
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Hercules Incorporated
Hercules Plaza
1313 North Market Street
Wilmington, DE 19894-0001
March 14, 1997
</TABLE>
NOTICE OF THE 1997
ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
The Annual Meeting of Shareholders of Hercules Incorporated will be held on
THURSDAY, APRIL 24, 1997,
at 11:00 a.m., at the Delaware Art Museum, 2301 Kentmere Parkway, Wilmington,
Delaware to consider and take action on the following:
1. Re-election of four directors: Richard M. Fairbanks, III; Edith E.
Holiday; H. Eugene McBrayer; and Lee M. Thomas, each for a term of
three years;
2. Ratification of Coopers & Lybrand L.L.P. as independent accountants
for 1997;
3. Approval of amendments to the Hercules Long-Term Incentive
Compensation Plan; and
4. Transact any other business properly before the Annual Meeting.
YOUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE "IN FAVOR OF" ALL THREE PROPOSALS.
Shareholders of record at the close of business on February 24, 1997, will be
entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting or any adjournments thereof. Seating is
limited and therefore, admission is by ticket only on a first-come, first-served
basis. If you plan to attend the Annual Meeting, please mark the appropriate box
on your Proxy Card and mail it in the prepaid envelope provided. An admittance
ticket will be mailed to you. If you want to attend the Annual Meeting, but your
shares are held in the name of a broker or other nominee, please notify the
Corporate Secretary (800-441-9274).
This Proxy Statement, voting instruction card and Hercules' 1996 Annual Report
to Shareholders are being distributed on or about March 14, 1997.
By order of the Board of Directors,
/s/ Israel J. Floyd
Israel J. Floyd, Esq.
Corporate Secretary
<PAGE> 8
T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Questions and Answers......................................... 1
Proposals to be Voted Upon.................................... 3
Board of Directors............................................ 6
Board/Committee Membership Roster...................... 8
Board Compensation..................................... 9
Non-Employee Director Programs......................... 9
Named Executive Officers...................................... 10
1996 Compensation Highlights........................... 10
Five-year Performance Graph............................ 11
Report of the Compensation Committee.......................... 12
Beneficial Ownership Table.................................... 17
Summary Compensation Table.................................... 18
Options Grants Table.......................................... 20
Option Exercises and Year-End Value Table..................... 21
Pension Plans Table........................................... 22
Other Information............................................. 23
</TABLE>
For directions to the Annual Meeting, please refer to the inside back cover.
<PAGE> 9
Q U E S T I O N S AND A N S W E R S
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Q: WHAT AM I VOTING ON?
A: - Re-election of four directors (Richard M. Fairbanks, III; Edith E. Holiday;
H. Eugene McBrayer; and Lee M. Thomas);
- Ratification of Coopers & Lybrand L.L.P. as Hercules' independent
accountants;
- Approval of amendments to the Hercules' Incorporated Long-Term Incentive
Compensation Plan.
(See page 3 for more details.)
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Q: WHO IS ENTITLED TO VOTE?
A: Shareholders as of the close of business on February 24, 1997 (the Record
Date) are entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting. Each share of common stock is
entitled to one vote. (See page 23 for more details.)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Q: HOW DO I VOTE?
A: Sign and date each proxy card you receive and return it in the prepaid
envelope. If you do not mark any selections, your proxy card will be voted in
favor of the three proposals. You have the right to revoke your proxy any time
before the meeting by 1) notifying Hercules' Corporate Secretary, 2) voting in
person or 3) returning a later-dated proxy. If you return your signed proxy
card, but do not indicate your voting preferences, R. Keith Elliott and Richard
G. Dahlen will vote FOR the three proposals on your behalf.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Q: IS MY VOTE CONFIDENTIAL?
A: Yes. Proxy cards, ballots and voting tabulations that identify individual
shareholders are confidential. Only the inspectors of election and certain
employees associated with processing proxy cards and counting the vote have
access to your card. Additionally, all comments directed to management (whether
written on the Proxy Card or elsewhere) will remain confidential, unless you ask
that your name be disclosed.
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Q: WHO WILL COUNT THE VOTE?
A: Representatives of ChaseMellon Shareholder Services will tabulate the votes
and act as inspector of election.
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Q: WHAT SHARES ARE INCLUDED IN THE PROXY CARD?
A: The shares on your card represent all your shares, including those in
Hercules' automatic dividend reinvestment plan, the executive compensation
plans, employee benefit plans, and shares credited to your savings plan account
held in custody by the trustee, Bankers Trust. (See page 23 for more details.)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Q: WHAT DOES IT MEAN IF I GET MORE THAN ONE PROXY CARD?
A: It is an indication that your shares are registered differently and are in
more than one account. Sign and return all proxy cards to ensure that all your
shares are voted. To provide better shareholder services, we encourage you to
have all accounts registered in the same name and address. You may do this by
contacting our transfer agent, ChaseMellon Shareholders Services, at (800)
237-9980.
The Plain English of Shareholder Value 1
<PAGE> 10
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Q: WHAT CONSTITUTES A QUORUM?
A: As of the Record Date, 101,730,290 shares of Hercules common stock were
issued and outstanding. A majority of the outstanding shares, present or
represented by proxy, constitutes a quorum for the transaction of adopting
proposals at the Annual Meeting. If you submit a properly executed proxy card,
then you will be considered part of the quorum. If you are present or
represented by a proxy at the Annual Meeting and you abstain, your abstention
will have the same effect as a vote against such proposal. Broker non-votes will
not be part of the voting power present.
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Q: WHO CAN ATTEND THE ANNUAL MEETING?
A: All shareholders as of the Record Date can attend, although seating is
limited.
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Q: WHAT PERCENTAGE OF STOCK DO THE DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS OWN?
A: Together, they own approximately 1.4% of our common stock as of the Record
Date. (See page 17 for more details.)
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Q: WHO ARE THE LARGEST PRINCIPAL SHAREHOLDERS?
A: Oppenheimer Group, Inc. (Oppenheimer Tower, World Financial Center, New York,
NY) owned 20,482,320 shares, or 20.01%, as of January 9, 1997.
Chancellor LGT Asset Management, Inc. (50 California Street, San Francisco,
CA) owned 6,513,677 shares, or 6.36%, as of February 7, 1997.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Q: WHEN ARE THE 1998 SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS DUE?
A: In order to be considered for inclusion in next year's proxy statement,
shareholder proposals must be submitted in writing by November 14, 1997, to
Israel J. Floyd, Esq., Corporate Secretary, Hercules Incorporated, Hercules
Plaza, 1313 North Market Street, Wilmington, DE 19894-0001.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Q: HOW DOES A SHAREHOLDER NOMINATE SOMEONE TO BE A DIRECTOR OF HERCULES?
A: Any shareholder may recommend any person as a nominee for director of
Hercules by writing to the Chairman of the Nominating Committee, c/o Hercules
Incorporated, Hercules Plaza, 1313 North Market Street, Wilmington, DE
19894-0001. Recommendations must be received by April 3, 1997 and must be
accompanied by a notarized statement from the nominee indicating his or her
willingness to serve if elected and disclosing principal occupations or
employment over the past five years.
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Q: HOW MUCH DID THIS PROXY SOLICITATION COST?
A: Morrow & Co., Inc. was hired to assist in the distribution of proxy materials
and solicitation of votes for $10,000, plus out-of-pocket expenses.
Hercules will reimburse brokerage houses and other custodians, nominees and
fiduciaries for their reasonable out-of-pocket expenses for forwarding proxy and
solicitation material to the owners of common stock.
2
<PAGE> 11
P R O P O S A L S T O B E V O T E D U P O N
1. RE-ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
Nominees for re-election this year are Richard M. Fairbanks, III; Edith E.
Holiday; H. Eugene McBrayer; and Lee M. Thomas. Each has consented to serve a
three-year term. (See page 6 for more information.)
If any director is unable to stand for re-election, the Board may, by
resolution, provide for a lesser number of directors or designate a substitute.
In the latter event, shares represented by proxies may be voted for a substitute
director.
We need the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of common
stock. Your Board recommends a vote FOR these directors. Abstentions and votes
withheld for directors will have the same effect as votes against.
2. RATIFICATION OF COOPERS & LYBRAND L.L.P AS INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
Coopers & Lybrand (C&L) has been our independent public accountant for many
years. The Audit Committee and the Board believe that C&L's long-term knowledge
of Hercules is invaluable. Partners and employees of the firm engaged in audits
are periodically changed, providing Hercules with new expertise and experience.
Representatives of C&L have direct access to members of the Audit Committee and
regularly attend their meetings. Representatives of C&L will attend the Annual
Meeting to answer appropriate questions and make a statement if they desire.
In 1996, the Audit Committee (1) reviewed all services provided by C&L to ensure
that they were within the scope previously approved by the Committee, and (2)
concluded that the non-audit services performed by C&L did not impair its
independence as Hercules' accountants.
We need the affirmative vote of the majority of shares present in person or by
proxy and entitled to vote at the meeting in order to ratify C&L as independent
accountants for 1997. The Audit Committee and the Board recommend a vote FOR
Coopers & Lybrand as independent accountants for 1997.
3. APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO THE HERCULES LONG-TERM INCENTIVE COMPENSATION PLAN
INTRODUCTION: The objectives of Hercules' executive compensation programs are
to motivate management to create shareholder value and to attract and retain
talented executives to ensure the continued growth and performance of Hercules.
There are three components to executive compensation: base pay, an annual
incentive, and long-term incentives.
In 1995, Hercules requested and received shareholder approval for separate pools
of stock and stock options to annually fund grants under the Hercules Long-Term
Incentive Compensation Plan (Plan) through 1998. These grants were expected to
take the form of stock options, performance accelerated stock options (PASOs)
and cash-denominated stock awards. Since
The Plain English of Shareholder Value 3
<PAGE> 12
1995, changes in Hercules' management and the laws, rules and regulations
applicable to executive compensation make it appropriate to amend the Plan.
The focus of the Plan is for management to deliver increased shareholder value
year after year. To support this philosophy, we request shareholder approval for
amendments to the Plan one year earlier than originally anticipated to:
- recognize the significant reorganization of the executive management team
and tie their performance to longer-term, sustained stock price
appreciation;
- align the interests of all employees to shareholder value creation
through stock options;
- recognize recent changes to the rules under Section 16 of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934; and
- comply with individual limits under Section 162(m) of the Internal
Revenue Code.
Specifically, the Compensation Committee replaced the projected 1997, 1998 and
1999 annual grants of stock options and PASOs for Messrs. Elliott, Corbo and
MacKenzie with a single grant of PASOs. These vest upon the achievement of a 12%
average annual compounded growth in stock price over a minimum of three, four
and five years for the CEO's award (or two, three and four years for Messrs.
Corbo and MacKenzie).(1) In the event a key executive retires or resigns before
achieving minimum vesting requirements, applicable portions of the award will be
forfeited.
Executive management not covered by the award packages above will continue to
receive a combination of stock options and PASOs, with PASOs being the larger
portion of their award. Other management incentives will shift from
cash-denominated stock awards to a similar combination of stock options and
PASOs, with a lesser proportion of the award in PASOs further down in the
organization. (For more details on long-term incentives, refer to the
Compensation Committee Report on page 12.)
With these changes in compensation structure, our requirements have decreased
for granting stock under the Plan as restricted stock (in exchange for
above-target bonuses or other forms of employee compensation) or as payouts of
cash-denominated awards. Conversely, our need to grant stock as stock options
and PASOs has increased.
MATERIAL FEATURES OF THE AMENDMENTS: We request shareholder approval to make
all changes to the Plan that the Board or the Compensation Committee deem
necessary, appropriate or desirable to accomplish the amendments described
below.
1. TERM OF THE PLAN: The current termination date of the Plan is April 30,
1998. The new termination date will be April 30, 2000. Generally, "April
30, 1998" will be changed to "April 30, 2000" throughout the Plan.
2. AUTHORIZED SHARES: The current Plan authorizes specific shares for all
stock-based awards (other than options) and for shares for option
grants. Specifically, the current Plan provides for the use of 1,600,000
shares of common stock for grants of stock-based awards (other than
options) from May 1, 1995, through April 30, 1998, and 5,200,000 shares
for grants of stock options from May 1, 1994, through April 30, 1998.
The Plan will be amended to provide for the use of 8,000,000 shares of
common stock for grants of
- ---------------
(1) All PASOs under the Plan become exercisable 9 1/2 years from the date of
grant if the performance targets have not been previously met.
4
<PAGE> 13
stock-based or stock option awards from October 1, 1996, through April
30, 2000. Further, no unused shares from the 1995 shareholder
authorization will be used for awards on or after April 24, 1997.
3. USE OF SHARES: Currently, the Plan provides specific authorizations for
stock-based awards and options. The Plan now provides that options
granted may be either incentive stock options or nonqualified options.
The Plan will be amended to provide that the authorized 8,000,000 shares
may be used for grants of stock-based awards or stock option awards;
however, the number of shares available for stock-based awards (e.g.,
restricted stock and cash-denominated awards) will be limited to no more
than 1,200,000 shares of the authorized 8,000,000.
4. MAXIMUM NUMBER OF OPTIONS GRANTED TO AN INDIVIDUAL AWARDEE: Presently
the Plan provides that during the period from May 1, 1994, through April
30, 1998, no person shall be granted or receive more than 1,500,000
options and/or PASOs in the aggregate. The Plan will be amended to
provide that during the period from April 24, 1997 through April 30,
2000, no person shall be granted or receive more than 1,500,000 options
and/or PASOs.
5. SECTION 16: In 1996, the SEC adopted changes to the Section 16 rules and
forms in an effort to simplify the complex Section 16 regulatory scheme
and the costs of complying with its requirements. The current Plan will
be amended from time to time to address the 1996 and future changes to
the Section 16 regulatory scheme.
Any shareholder may obtain a copy of the current Plan by writing to Hercules
Incorporated, Hercules Plaza, 1313 North Market Street, Wilmington, DE
19894-0001, Attention: Corporate Secretary. Requests may also be made by fax to
(302) 594-7252 or by e-mail to ([email protected]).
The affirmative vote of the majority of the shares present in person or by proxy
and entitled to vote is required to approve the amendments. Your Board
recommends a vote "FOR" the approval of the amendments to the Hercules
Incorporated Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan.
Separate from the Plan, we are considering a grant of stock options to all
employees. Through stock ownership, we believe that all employees worldwide will
place greater emphasis on shareholder value creation and ensure the continued
growth and performance of Hercules.
The Plain English of Shareholder Value 5
<PAGE> 14
B O A R D O F D I R E C T O R S
-------------------------- --------------------------
-------------------------- --------------------------
Photo of Photo of
R. KEITH ELLIOTT VINCENT J. CORBO
- --------------------------- --------------------------
- --------------------------- --------------------------
Photo of Photo of
RICHARD M. EDITH E. HOLIDAY*
FAIRBANKS, III*
--------------------------
--------------------------
Photo of
ROBERT G. JAHN
R. KEITH ELLIOTT Director since 1991
Mr. Elliott, age 55, is chairman and chief executive officer
of Hercules Incorporated. In 1995, Mr. Elliott held the
position of executive vice president and chief financial
officer, and later that year was named president and chief
operating officer. Before joining Hercules in 1991, he was
senior vice president and chief financial officer of Engelhard
Corporation, a producer of catalysts, engineered materials,
precious metals and derivative products. He joined Engelhard
in 1981. Mr. Elliott is a director of Alliant Techsystems,
Inc., Wilmington Trust Company, PECO Energy, Inc. and a member
of the Partnership Committee of Tastemaker, Inc.
VINCENT J. CORBO Director since 1997
Mr. Corbo, age 53, was elected president and chief operating
officer and became a member of the Hercules Board of Directors
in February 1997. He held various positions in research
engineering and business management, including executive vice
president, responsible for Technology and the Paper Technology
and Fibers businesses, 1996; group vice president and
president, Food & Functional Products, 1993, and Materials,
1992.
RICHARD M. FAIRBANKS, III* Director since 1993
Mr. Fairbanks, age 56, is managing director, Domestic and
International Issues, Center for Strategic & International
Studies. He was Ambassador-at-Large under President Reagan. He
is a member of the board of directors of SEACOR Holdings, Inc.
and GATX Corporation; vice chairman of the United States
National Committee of the Pacific Economic Cooperation
Council; member, Council on Foreign Relations, Council of
American Ambassadors; and founder, The American Refugee
Committee of Washington.
EDITH E. HOLIDAY* Director since 1993
Ms. Holiday, age 45, was assistant to the President of the
United States and Secretary of the Cabinet from 1990 until
early 1993. Ms. Holiday served as counselor to the Secretary
of the Treasury and Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs and
Public Liaison, United States Treasury Department from 1988 to
1989. Ms. Holiday is a director of Amerada Hess Corporation,
H. J. Heinz Company, Beverly Enterprises, Inc., and director
or trustee of various investment companies in the Franklin
Templeton Group of Funds.
ROBERT G. JAHN Director since 1985
Professor Jahn, age 66, has taught at Princeton University,
Dept. of Aerospace Sciences since 1967. He was Dean of the
School of Engineering/Applied Science at Princeton, 1971-1986.
Professor Jahn is a trustee, fellow and a member of several
academic and aeronautic societies. He is vice president and a
founding member of the Society for Scientific Exploration. He
is also a director of Roy F. Weston, Inc., an environmental
services firm.
* Nominees for re-election
6
<PAGE> 15
B O A R D O F D I R E C T O R S
-------------------------- --------------------------
-------------------------- --------------------------
Photo of Photo of
GAYNOR N. KELLEY RALPH L. MACDONALD, JR.
- -------------------------- --------------------------
- -------------------------- --------------------------
Photo of Photo of
H. EUGENE MCBRAYER* PAULA A. SNEED
--------------------------
--------------------------
Photo of
LEE M. THOMAS*
GAYNOR N. KELLEY Director since 1989
Mr. Kelley, age 65, is the retired chairman and chief
executive officer of the Perkin-Elmer Corporation, a
manufacturer of analytical instrumentation. Mr. Kelley is a
member of the board of trustees of Northeast Utilities System
and is a director of Alliant Techsystems Inc. and Arrow
Electronics Corp. He is on the advisory board of the Center
for Management Development at Northeastern University.
RALPH L. MACDONALD, JR. Director since 1989
Mr. MacDonald, age 55, is a principal in Amelia Investment
Corp. (AIC), a private investment firm dedicated to the
acquisition and development of small to medium-sized
industrial manufacturing and distribution companies. Prior to
AIC, he was a principal in Island Capital Corporation, a
similar firm, and managing director, Global Corporate Finance,
Bankers Trust Company, a banking institution. Mr. MacDonald is
also a director of Gaylord Container Corporation.
H. EUGENE MCBRAYER* Director since 1992
Mr. McBrayer, age 65, retired as president of Exxon Chemical
Company in January 1992, after 37 years. He is a former
chairman of the board of the Chemical Manufacturers
Association and is currently a director of American Air
Liquide, Inc. and Air Liquide International. He is also a
member of the Advisory Committee for the Pacific Northwest
National Laboratory.
PAULA A. SNEED Director since 1994
Ms. Sneed, age 49, is senior vice president, Marketing
Services, Kraft Foods, Inc., the nation's largest packaged
foods company. She joined General Foods in 1977, and has held
a variety of management positions including vice president,
Consumer Affairs; senior vice president and president,
Foodservice Division; executive vice president and general
manager, Desserts Division; and executive vice president and
general manager, Dinners and Enhancers Division. In 1993, Ms.
Sneed was cited by Black Enterprise Magazine as one of the 40
most influential African Americans in Corporate America.
LEE M. THOMAS* Director since 1991
Mr. Thomas, age 52, is executive vice-president, Paper,
Georgia-Pacific Corporation, a forest products company. He was
chairman and chief executive officer of Law Companies
Environmental Group, Inc., an environmental services firm,
1989-1993. From January 1985 to January 1989 he was
administrator, United States Environmental Protection Agency.
* Nominees for re-election
The Plain English of Shareholder Value 7
<PAGE> 16
[STAR LOGO] BOARD COMMITTEES
MEMBERSHIP ROSTER
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SOCIAL
NAME BOARD AUDIT COMPENSATION EXECUTIVE FINANCE NOMINATING RESPONSIBILITY TECHNOLOGY
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
R. K. Elliott x* x* x x
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
V. J. Corbo x x x
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
R. M. Fairbanks, III x x x x
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
E. E. Holiday x x x*
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
R. G. Jahn x x x x x*
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
G. N. Kelley x x x x*
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
R. L. MacDonald, Jr. x x* x x
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
H. E. McBrayer x x x* x
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
P. A. Sneed x x x
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
L. M. Thomas x x* x
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
No. of Meetings in 1996 9 4 6 2 5 3 4 5
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
* chairperson
Audit: Reviews Hercules' auditing, accounting, financial reporting and internal
control functions. This Committee also recommends the firm that Hercules should
retain as its independent accountant. All members are non-employee directors.
Compensation: Reviews Hercules' executive compensation and employee benefit
plans and programs, including their establishment, modification, and
administration. All members are non-employee directors.
Executive: Has limited powers to act on behalf of the Board whenever the Board
is not in session. This Committee meets only as needed and acts only by
unanimous vote. If any non-employee director on this Committee feels that a
matter should be addressed by the Board rather than the Executive Committee, it
is then submitted to the Board.
Finance: Reviews Hercules' financial affairs. This Committee has full and final
authority on certain financial matters and serves as the named fiduciary for all
of Hercules' qualified pension and savings plans.
Nominating: Considers and recommends nominees for election as directors and
officers. Reviews and evaluates the effectiveness, procedures and practices of
the Board and its members. All members are non-employee directors.
Social Responsibility: Reviews Hercules' policies, programs and practices on
certain issues including equal employment opportunity; environmental, safety and
health matters; ethics; and community affairs/relations.
Technology: Reviews the strategic direction of Hercules' technology and related
resources including its intellectual property estate, research and development,
and new or emerging technologies.
8
<PAGE> 17
[STAR LOGO] BOARD COMPENSATION
Employee directors receive no additional compensation other than their
normal salary for serving on the Board or its Committees.
Non-employee directors receive $20,000 annually and $1,000 for each meeting
attended. In addition, they are paid $3,000 for chairing a committee, $1,000 per
day for special assignments, and are reimbursed for out-of-pocket expenses.
In 1996, non-employee directors received $440,507 as a group.
[STAR LOGO] NON-EMPLOYEE DIRECTOR PROGRAMS
Non-Employee Director Stock Accumulation Plan. Directors may elect to defer all
or part of their compensation in exchange for restricted stock at 85% of the
fair market value on the date of exchange. These shares are restricted until
retirement from the Board.
In addition, each director receives annually a grant of a non-qualified
stock option (exercisable after a one-year holding period) to purchase 3,000
shares of common stock. The option price is set at the fair market value of the
common stock on the date of grant.
Equity Award. A director has a single opportunity to purchase 750 shares of
common stock when first elected to the Board. Upon the purchase, Hercules awards
an additional 1,500 shares. Shares awarded cannot be transferred until
retirement or resignation.
Retirement Plan. In 1996, Hercules replaced the existing retirement program with
a new plan for its non-employee directors that more closely aligns their
interests with those of shareholders. Upon election to the Board, each director
will receive a grant of 200 restricted stock units (RSUs). Each RSU represents
the right to receive one share of Hercules stock at retirement. Prior to that,
RSUs are placed in an unfunded account where they accrue dividend equivalents
and interest. RSUs do not carry any voting rights. Directors receive an
additional 100 RSUs for each year they continue to serve on the Board, up to a
maximum of nine years. Upon retirement, the director may elect to receive all
shares in a lump sum or spread the distribution over a period not to exceed ten
years.
In 1996, directors had the option to continue under the terms of the former
retirement plan or to switch to the new plan. The majority of the directors
elected to forego their current pension benefit and exchange its current value
for RSUs. These directors were granted RSUs in exchange for the present value of
the retirement benefit accrued under the old plan plus 100 RSUs per year for
their remaining anticipated Board service, up to a maximum of nine years. No
additional annual grants will be made to these directors. (The number of RSUs
was based on the closing stock price on the date the exchange was made.)
Under the old plan, directors received a percentage of their fee annually
for a period of ten years. With a minimum of five years of service, the
retirement benefit was 60% of the annual fee. This percentage increased each
year in 10% increments until 100% was reached in the ninth year.
Charitable Award Program. To promote charitable giving, Hercules recently
established the Director's Charitable Award Program, funded by life insurance
policies on directors. Upon the death or retirement of a director, Hercules will
commit to deliver its common stock, with a present value of $1,000,000, to one
or more designated charitable institutions over a ten-year period. The actual
number of shares delivered to the charitable institutions will be based on a
projected share price growth. The first installment will be paid immediately
after the director's retirement or death, but no sooner than the year 2002.
Individual directors derive no financial benefit from this program since
all charitable deductions accrue solely to Hercules. Further, the insurance
funding is structured so that the program results in nominal cost to Hercules
over time.
The Plain English of Shareholder Value 9
<PAGE> 18
NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS(1)
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
Photo of Photo of Photo of
R. KEITH ELLIOTT THOMAS L. GOSSAGE VINCENT J. CORBO
Chairman* and Chief Executive Retired Chairman* President and Chief Operating
Officer Officer**
</TABLE>
1996 COMPENSATION HIGHLIGHTS
($000)
[GRAPH]
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
R.K. ELLIOTT T.L. GOSSAGE V.J. CORBO R.J.A. FRASER G. MACKENZIE C.D. MILLER
------------ ------------ ---------- ------------- ------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Salary 600,004 933,338 298,751 271,247 242,501 275,082
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bonus 232,800 399,000 145,000 66,500 72,000 66,500
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other Compensation 85,343 272,880 105,357 73,011 28,735 90,356
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Restricted Awards 106,747 267,676 27,351 337,068 14,111 19,852
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
Photo of Photo of Photo of
ROBERT J. A. FRASER GEORGE MACKENZIE C. DOYLE MILLER
Executive Vice President Senior Vice President and Senior Vice President
(Retired)*** Chief Financial Officer
</TABLE>
- ---------------
(1) Any person who held the office of chief executive officer during the last
fiscal year and the next four most highly compensated executive officers.
* Effective January 1, 1997. Mr. Elliott succeeded Mr. Gossage as Chairman.
** Effective February 24, 1997, Mr. Corbo assumed his current position.
*** Effective March 1, 1997, Mr. Fraser retired.
10
<PAGE> 19
P E R F O R M A N C E G R A P H
COMPARISON OF FIVE YEAR CUMULATIVE RETURN*
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1992 1993 1994 1995 1996
------ ------ ------ ------ ------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Hercules Incorporated (NYSE trading
Symbol HPC) 131.70 241.75 250.77 373.56 291.60
S&P 500 107.61 118.41 119.97 165.00 202.85
S&P Chemical Index 109.50 122.46 141.73 185.00 240.27
</TABLE>
Assumes $100 Invested on December 31, 1991
*Total return assumes reinvestment of dividends
The Plain English of Shareholder Value 11
<PAGE> 20
R E P O R T O F T H E C O M P E N S A T I O N C O M M I T T E E
WHAT IS OUR COMPENSATION PHILOSOPHY?
The objectives of Hercules' executive compensation programs are to motivate
management to create shareholder value by linking executive compensation with
the returns realized by shareholders and to ensure the continued growth and
performance of Hercules by attracting, retaining, and motivating talented
executives through competitive compensation.
The Compensation Committee, composed of three independent non-employee
directors, has the responsibility to administer executive compensation programs,
policies and practices.
Hercules' executive compensation program consists of three elements: base
pay, an annual incentive program, and a long-term incentive compensation
program. In addition, the Committee may make special awards in recognition of
extraordinary achievements or significant appointments. In late 1996, the total
compensation mix for key executives changed by setting base salary levels to
fixed amounts and increasing performance-based pay, both short-term and
long-term.
HOW DO WE DETERMINE BASE PAY?
The base pay of Hercules' executives is determined by individual
performance and comparisons to executive compensation in other chemical and
general industry companies, including many designated in the Standard & Poors
Chemical Index.
MR. GOSSAGE'S 1996 BASE PAY: Consistent with Hercules' March annual merit
review date, the Committee established Mr. Gossage's 1996 base pay at $950,000
by considering, without specific weighting:
- an analysis of competitive CEO compensation in general industry and
diversified chemical companies;
- input from outside consulting firms, which reviewed competitive data and
estimated a competitive level of base pay;
- performance achieved against financial goals in 1995;
- the continued actions in portfolio management;
- the achievement of Mr. Gossage's accountabilities in capital expansion,
management development, and succession planning, cost improvement and
technology programs; and
- the implementation of Hercules' strategic plans.
MR. ELLIOTT'S 1996 BASE PAY: In August 1996, Mr. Elliott was named Chief
Executive Officer and President. Mr. Gossage retained his position as Chairman
of the Board. The Committee determined Mr. Elliott's base pay as CEO by
considering, without specific weighting:
- an analysis of competitive CEO compensation in general industry and
diversified chemical companies (excluding recognition for the position of
Chairman), and
- input from outside consulting firms, which reviewed competitive data and
estimated a competitive level of base pay for Mr. Elliott.
12
<PAGE> 21
Consistent with the shift from fixed compensation to performance-based
compensation, the Committee moved some of Mr. Elliott's potential future
compensation into variable pay. With that consideration, the Committee
determined a base pay of $700,000, effective August 1, 1996, was appropriate for
the position of CEO. In addition, the Committee increased Mr. Elliott's salary
to $750,000 effective January 1, 1997 commensurate with his additional
responsibility as Chairman of the Board. No additional base salary increases
will be given to Mr. Elliott for the next three years.
OTHER NAMED EXECUTIVES' 1996 BASE PAY: The base pay for other Named Executive
Officers (i.e., Messrs. Corbo, Fraser, MacKenzie and Miller) was determined,
without specific weighting, by considering competitive compensation data from
chemical company salaries, published industry surveys for comparable positions
and individual performance. Effective with Mr. Elliott's appointment to CEO and
President, and the subsequent management restructuring, base pay was increased
for the other Named Executive Officers to reflect their new accountabilities.
Consistent with the philosophy of shifting from fixed compensation to
performance-based pay, no additional base pay increases will be given to these
Named Executive Officers in their current positions for the next three years.
HOW ARE ANNUAL BONUSES DETERMINED?
Under the Hercules Incorporated Management Incentive Compensation Plan
(MICP), annual bonuses are paid in cash, or a combination of cash and restricted
stock, in the year following performance, based on the achievement of
predetermined corporate, business unit or corporate staff unit goals, and
individual goals. The MICP provides that no payouts will occur unless the
minimum level of performance, as established by the Committee, is exceeded. A
maximum of 200% of target may be paid upon achievement of outstanding
performance. Once established, the Committee may adjust the performance level
expected for minimum, target or maximum payouts only upon the occurrence of
extraordinary events. In the last four years, the Committee has not waived the
minimum level of performance nor adjusted the target or maximum goals required
for payout.
1996 BONUS PAYOUT LEVEL: The Committee approved the 1996 MICP pool at 70% of
the target level. The Committee used the 1996 corporate goal for earnings per
share (EPS) as its primary measure of corporate performance. EPS was chosen
because it is an indicator of the consistency of Hercules' performance. In 1996,
Hercules achieved an EPS of $3.04, up from $2.93 in 1995. Additionally, the
final 1996 pool reflected, without specific weighting:
- outstanding improvement in the safety performance of our employees, and
- shareholder value creation below plan, both absolutely and relative to
our peers.
MR. GOSSAGE'S 1996 BONUS: Eighty percent of Mr. Gossage's MICP payout was
attributable to corporate performance. The remaining 20% was based on the
Committee's consideration of his individual accountabilities, including, without
specific weighting:
- outstanding improvement in the safety performance of our employees, and
- shareholder value creation below plan, both absolutely and relative to
our peers.
A final 1996 MICP payout to Mr. Gossage of $399,000 was approved by the
Committee.
The Plain English of Shareholder Value 13
<PAGE> 22
MR. ELLIOTT'S 1996 BONUS: In recognition of Mr. Elliott's appointment to
President and CEO, the Committee increased his 1996 MICP opportunity on a
prorated basis for the months in the new position. Further, an increased portion
(80%) of Mr. Elliott's MICP payout opportunity was directly attributable to
corporate performance as compared with business unit or individual performance.
The remaining 20% was based on the Committee's consideration of his individual
accountabilities, including, without specific weighting:
- outstanding improvement in the safety performance of our employees, and
- shareholder value creation below plan, both absolutely and relative to
our peers.
A final 1996 MICP payout to Mr. Elliott of $232,800 was approved by the
Committee.
OTHER NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS' 1996 BONUSES: The final 1996 MICP payouts as
approved by the Committee for the other four Named Executive Officers were an
aggregate of $350,000 for the group. In approving these payouts, the Committee
considered, without specific weighting:
- Hercules' corporate performance,
- business unit performance, and
- the individual's contributions to Hercules' success.
Consistent with the shift in fixed compensation to greater
performance-based pay, 1997 MICP target opportunities will be increased by 10%
of their frozen base salaries for Messrs. Elliott, MacKenzie and Miller and by
15% for Mr. Corbo.
HOW IS COMPENSATION USED TO FOCUS MANAGEMENT ON LONG-TERM VALUE CREATION?
The focus of the Hercules Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan (Plan) is
to increase shareholder value. Under the Plan, the Committee approves annual
pools of stock options, Performance Accelerated Stock Options (PASOs), and Cash
Value Awards. The Committee also approves the specific awards for officers and
other key employees. In accordance with the provisions of the Plan, the CEO
approves all awards for other eligible employees. In 1996, all executive
management received stock options and PASOs.
PASOs are non-qualified stock options that become exercisable upon the
achievement of certain three-year goals.(1) Once established, the Committee will
consider changes to the goals only upon a major restructuring of Hercules.
PASOs, representing approximately half of the value of the award package, are
granted as separate target and outstanding awards. The target award will vest at
three years if the price of Hercules common stock has increased to $79.25 (a 12%
compounded annual increase in stock price over the three-year period) and
relative total shareholder return is in excess of the S&P Chemical Index over
the same period. The outstanding award will vest at three years if the price of
Hercules common stock has increased to $90.25 (a 17% compounded annual increase
over the three-year period) and the same relative total shareholder return goals
are achieved.
- ---------------
(1) All PASOs under the Plan become exercisable 9 1/2 years from the date of
grant if the performance targets have not been previously met.
14
<PAGE> 23
MR. GOSSAGE'S 1996 LONG-TERM INCENTIVES: In 1996, the Committee granted Mr.
Gossage 87,000 PASOs and 132,000 stock options. In making this grant, the
Committee considered, without specific weighting, the compensation value of such
awards granted to other CEOs and the number of stock options granted in the
prior year.
MR. ELLIOTT'S 1996 LONG-TERM INCENTIVES: In 1996, the Committee granted Mr.
Elliott 46,300 PASOs and 70,000 stock options. In making these grants, the
Committee considered, without specific weighting, the compensation value of such
awards granted to other COOs, the number of stock options granted in the prior
year and the broadened accountabilities and responsibilities of Mr. Elliott.
OTHER NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS' 1996 LONG-TERM INCENTIVES: In 1996, the
Committee approved an aggregate of 108,000 PASOs and 95,000 stock options for
the other four Named Executive Officers as a group. In approving these grants,
the Committee considered, without specific weighting, the value of such awards
relative to competitive compensation data from other chemical companies and
surveys, the number of options granted in the prior year and the current
accountabilities and responsibilities.
LONG-TERM INCENTIVE GRANTS UNDER THE NEW ORGANIZATION: With the reorganization
of the executive management team upon the appointment of Mr. Elliott as CEO,
additional PASOs were granted to Messrs. Elliott, Corbo and MacKenzie. These
PASOs were granted in lieu of any regular grants of stock options or PASOs for
the next three years. These PASOs will become exercisable in substantially equal
increments, based on the achievement of ongoing 12% annual compounded stock
price growth over a minimum of three, four or five years for Mr. Elliott's award
(or two, three or four years for the awards to Messrs. Corbo and MacKenzie).(2)
For example, if the portion of the award with the earliest possible vesting date
of January 2000 is not vested at that time (due to below 12% annual stock price
growth), in order to vest in any subsequent year, the stock price to that date
must exceed the 12% annual compounded stock price growth from the date of grant.
In the event a key executive officer resigns or retires prior to achieving
minimum vesting requirements of these PASOs, applicable portions will be
forfeited.
The Committee granted 1,000,000 PASOs to Mr. Elliott, 300,000 PASOs to Mr.
Corbo and 200,000 PASOs to Mr. MacKenzie. The size of these grants were based on
consideration of, without specific weighting, regular award grants that will be
foregone over the next three years, the relative value of stock options and
PASOs, and the new roles of these key executives in the organization.
Further, as part of his compensation package as CEO, the Committee approved
a grant of 75,000 regular stock options to Mr. Elliott in satisfaction of
previous compensation arrangements that were yet to be implemented.
STOCK OWNERSHIP: In recognition of the new roles of Messrs. Elliott, Corbo,
MacKenzie, Fraser and Miller, the Committee offered these executives the
opportunity to receive a matching grant of restricted stock against new
purchases of Hercules stock. The purchases can be made outright or through
salary and/or bonus reduction over a period of up to four years. In the event of
voluntary resignation for any reason (including retirement) within three years
of the grant date, the matching grant is fully forfeitable. In the event of
death, disability or reduction-in-force,
- ---------------
(2) All PASOs under the Plan become exercisable 9 1/2 years from the date of
grant if the performance targets have not been previously met.
The Plain English of Shareholder Value 15
<PAGE> 24
purchased shares and their matching shares will be prorated based on salary
and/or bonus reduction to date.
Under the matching grant opportunity, the Committee approved the matching
grant of 18,552 shares of restricted stock to Mr. Fraser. Additionally, in lieu
of the future receipt of portions of his annual incentive payouts in 1997, 1998
and 1999 (or base salary if such amounts are insufficient), Mr. Fraser elected
to purchase 10,878 restricted stock units (RSUs).
Mr. Elliott made an irrevocable election to purchase RSUs through a
combination of salary and bonus reductions in 1997, 1998, 1999, and 2000. Mr.
MacKenzie made a similar irrevocable election using bonus reductions in 1998,
1999 and 2000 to purchase RSUs. Grants under these elections and the associated
matching grants were made on the third business day following the announcement
of annual earnings. Mr. Corbo made an irrevocable election to purchase RSUs
through a combination of salary and bonus reductions in 1997, 1998, 1999 and
2000. The grants under this election will be made following the announcement of
first quarter earnings.
WHAT WERE THE RETIREMENT PROVISIONS FOR MR. GOSSAGE?
As part of his retirement elections under the terms of the Plan, Mr.
Gossage requested that the Committee make a substitute grant of RSUs for all of
his restricted stock that would otherwise vest at retirement. Under this
election, these RSUs are payable as shares of Hercules common stock in five
substantially equal installments beginning January 1998.
In recognition of Mr. Gossage's retirement and his contribution to
increases in shareholder value of $3 billion during the period in which he was
CEO (1991-1996), the Committee awarded him a special pension arrangement
consisting of five annual payments of $1,300,000.
HOW HAVE WE RESPONDED TO IRS LIMITS ON DEDUCTIBILITY OF COMPENSATION?
Under Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code, Hercules may not deduct
certain forms of compensation in excess of $1,000,000 paid to a Named Executive
Officer. Based upon a review of Hercules' current compensation plans and
practices, including the stock ownership program previously noted, the Committee
concluded that no action would be taken at this time and that further review
would be made during 1997.
Compensation Committee
R. L. MacDonald, Jr., Chairperson
G. N. Kelley
H. E. McBrayer
16
<PAGE> 25
B E N E F I C I A L O W N E R S H I P
This table indicates how much common stock the officers and directors owned as
of February 24, 1997.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Amount and Nature of Shares
Beneficially Owned
as of February 24, 1997
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Aggregate No.
of Shares Restricted Percent
Beneficially Right to Stock of
Name Owned(1) Acquire(2) Units(3) Shares
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
R. K. Elliott, Director and Officer 222,674 249,400 40,000 *
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
V. J. Corbo, Director and Officer 29,990 50,000 -- *
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
R. M. Fairbanks, III, Director 6,264 9,000 1,253 *
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
E. E. Holiday, Director 2,686 6,000 1,376 *
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
R. G. Jahn, Director 8,192 15,000 -- *
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
G. N. Kelley, Director 6,375 15,000 2,185 *
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
R. L. MacDonald, Jr., Director 10,165 15,000 1,928 *
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
G. MacKenzie, Officer 48,157 44,220 10,321 *
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
H. E. McBrayer, Director 76,645 12,000 1,527 *
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C. D. Miller, Officer 50,295 141,000 -- *
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
P. A. Sneed, Director 5,815 6,000 1,253 *
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
L. M. Thomas, Director 7,108 15,000 1,527 *
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Directors and Officers as a Group
(17) 803,131 590,580 61,370 1.4%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
- ---------------
* Less than 1% of Hercules' outstanding shares of common stock.
(1) Shares held in the individual's name, individually or jointly with others,
or in the name of a bank, broker or nominee for the individual's account.
Also included in this column are:
- Shares credited, as of December 31, 1996, to individual accounts under the
Hercules Incorporated Savings and Investment Plan ("S&I Plan"): R. K.
Elliott, 6,752; V. J. Corbo, 2,279; G. MacKenzie, 2,363; C. D. Miller, 5,938;
and all directors and officers as a group, 20,536. As long as such shares
remain in the S&I Plan trust, the named individuals have no power to direct
disposition (except for changes in investment medium within the S&I Plan),
but do have the same rights to vote and receive dividends (although held in
trust until withdrawal as permitted by the S&I Plan) as do other shareholders
of Hercules.
- Shares subject to restrictions and forfeiture risks during specified periods
under the LTICP: R. K. Elliott, 162,294; V. J. Corbo, 22,803; G. MacKenzie,
16,514; C. D. Miller, 27,219; and all directors and officers as a group,
290,173. As long as restricted stock awards are subject to restrictions under
one of the Plans, holders of such awards have the same rights, including
voting and dividend rights, with respect to the shares covered by the award,
as do other shareholders of Hercules, except for the right to sell or
transfer those shares.
- Included in the non-employee directors' totals are the initial, one-time
equity award as described on page 9 of this Proxy Statement.
- Mr. Kelley's total includes 1,506 shares that he holds jointly with his
spouse.
- As previously mentioned in this proxy, Mr. Fraser elected to retire from
Hercules. This table does not include him.
(2) Shares the officers and directors have a right to acquire through stock
option exercises within 60 days after February 24, 1997.
(3) Messrs. Elliott and MacKenzie elected to purchase RSUs in lieu of future
receipts of base salary and/or incentive payouts. See page 15 of the
Compensation Committee Report.
See Retirement Plan for non-employee directors on page 9.
The Plain English of Shareholder Value 17
<PAGE> 26
S U M M A R Y C O M P E N S A T I O N T A B L E
This table shows, for the last three fiscal years, cash and other compensation
paid or accrued to each of the Named Executive Officers.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Long Term Compensation
--------------------------------
Annual Compensation Awards Payouts
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Name and Other Restricted Securities
Principal Annual Stock Underlying LTIP All Other
Position Year Salary Bonus Compensation Award(s)(1) Options Payouts Compensation(2)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
R. K. Elliott 1996 $600,004 $ 232,800 $ 38,556 $ 106,747 1,191,300 $ 0 $ 46,787
Chairman* and 1995 450,833 500,000 34,878 1,340,131 194,500 1,266,435 34,841
Chief Executive Officer 1994 375,826 369,000 30,212 67,679 54,000 306,233 49,742
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
T. L. Gossage 1996 933,338 399,000 165,375 267,676 219,000 0 107,505
Retired Chairman* 1995 837,508 1,020,000 119,300 5,351,622 219,000 0 89,656
1994 768,340 734,000 57,269 226,753 132,000 564,113 119,611
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
V. J. Corbo 1996 298,751 145,000 42,357 27,351 356,000 0 63,000
President and Chief 1995 264,334 290,000 28,867 1,579,358 51,000 675,773 55,221
Operating Officer** 1994 233,754 269,000 16,094 21,873 24,000 210,458 64,906
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
R. J. A. Fraser 1996 271,247 66,500 11,288 337,068 51,000 0 61,723
Executive Vice President 1995 247,662 255,000 17,428 1,104,984 51,000 675,773 51,474
(Retired)*** 1994 234,326 200,000 22,938 40,606 24,000 185,351 79,996
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
G. MacKenzie 1996 242,501 72,000 7,101 14,111 245,000 0 21,634
Senior Vice President
and 1995 195,253 155,000 9,369 383,775 42,500 821,906 12,994
Chief Financial Officer 1994 174,970 145,000 8,924 9,263 15,000 152,815 7,534
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C. D. Miller 1996 275,082 66,500 16,446 19,852 51,000 0 73,910
Senior Vice President 1995 251,666 240,000 28,724 1,100,266 51,000 675,773 60,575
1994 233,496 237,000 25,210 16,405 24,000 210,220 56,657
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
* Effective January 1, 1997, Mr. Elliott succeeded Mr. Gossage as Chairman.
** Effective February 24, 1997
*** Effective March 1, 1997
18
<PAGE> 27
FOOTNOTES TO SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
- ------------------------
(1) These amounts are the dollar values of restricted stock awards and RSUs
granted each year. Each value is determined by multiplying the number of shares
in each award by the closing market price of common stock on the date of grant
and subtracting the consideration, if any, paid by the Named Executive Officer.
Dividends are payable on restricted stock; dividends and interest accrue on
RSUs.
The aggregate number of all restricted stock and value at year-end (determined
by taking the number of shares multiplied by the year-end closing market price,
net of any consideration paid) are shown below. Included in the chart are
restricted shares that each Named Executive Officer purchased under the terms of
the Hercules Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan. The aggregate amount paid
for these shares was $4,172,370.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Aggregate
Restricted
Shares Net Value
---------- ----------
<S> <C> <C>
R. K. Elliott 82,294 $1,287,183
T. L. Gossage* -- --
V. J. Corbo 27,115 817,659
R. J. A. Fraser** 39,058 1,333,995
G. MacKenzie 5,224 30,934
C. D. Miller 30,072 997,520
</TABLE>
* Mr. Gossage made a pre-retirement election to surrender 810,645 restricted
shares in exchange for an equal number of RSUs valued at $20,055,112 with
future payout dates.
** Mr. Fraser's total reflects a forfeiture of restricted stock due to his March
1, 1997 retirement.
(2)The table below shows the major components of this column:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Company Match
(Defined Dividend & Interest
Contribution Credits Premium Paid
Plans) (Stock Options) (Life Insurance)
------------- ------------------- ----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
R. K. Elliott $33,560 -- $ 13,227
T. L. Gossage 56,745 -- 50,760
V. J. Corbo 17,212 $37,542 8,246
R. J. A. Fraser 19,908 37,542 4,273
G. MacKenzie 8,911 9,667 3,056
C. D. Miller 24,242 37,542 12,127
</TABLE>
The Plain English of Shareholder Value 19
<PAGE> 28
O P T I O N G R A N T S A S O F Y E A R - E N D
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
I n d i v i d u a l G r a n t s
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
No. of % of
Securities Total Exercise
Underlying Options or Base
Options Granted to Price Expiration Grant Date
Name Granted(1) Employees ($/Sh) Date Value(2)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
R. K. Elliott 70,000(a) $55.375 2/8/06 $ 1,000,790
37,000(b) 55.375 2/8/06 400,151
9,300(b) 40.0% 55.375 2/8/06 100,579
1,000,000(c) 47.000 10/29/06 9,935,500
75,000(d) 47.000 10/29/06 745,162
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
T. L. Gossage 132,000(a) $55.375 2/8/06 1,887,204
69,600(b) 7.3% 55.375 2/8/06 752,717
17,400(b) 55.375 2/8/06 188,179
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
V. J. Corbo 26,000(a) $55.375 2/8/06 371,722
24,000(b) 55.375 2/8/06 259,558
6,000(b) 11.9% 55.375 2/8/06 64,889
300,000(c) 47.000 10/29/06 2,980,650
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
R. J. A. Fraser 24,000(a) $55.375 2/8/06 343,128
21,600(b) 1.7% 55.375 2/8/06 233,602
5,400(b) 55.375 2/8/06 58,400
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
G. MacKenzie 21,000(a) $55.375 2/8/06 300,237
19,200(b) 8.2% 55.375 2/8/06 207,646
4,800(b) 55.375 2/8/06 51,912
200,000(c) 47.000 10/29/06 1,987,100
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C. D. Miller 24,000(a) $55.375 2/8/06 343,128
21,600(b) 1.7% 55.375 2/8/06 233,602
5,400(b) 55.375 2/8/06 58,400
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
- ---------------
(1)(a) Grants and percentages may be exercised as follows: 40% on 2/10/97; 40%
on 2/9/98; and 20% on 2/8/99.
(b) Performance accelerated stock options (PASOs) (target and outstanding)
become exercisable upon the achievement of predetermined performance
goals. If goals are not achieved, the options become exercisable at 9 1/2
years.
(c) A special PASO award was made with the reorganization of the key
executive management team. These PASOs were granted in lieu of any
regular grants of stock options and PASOs for the next three years. These
PASOs become exercisable upon the achievement of predetermined
performance goals. If goals are not achieved, the options become
exercisable at 9 1/2 years.
(d) Options vest in one-third increments beginning 10/29/99, 10/27/00 and
10/29/01.
(2) The Black-Scholes option-pricing model was used to determine the fair value
of employee stock options as of the date of grant. Significant assumptions
are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Regular
Options(a)(d) PASOs(b)(c)
------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Dividend yield 3.0% 3.0%
Risk-free interest rate 6.42% 6.10%
Expected life 8 yrs. 5 yrs.
Expected volatility 21.9% 20.6%
No adjustments for risk of forfeiture have been made.
</TABLE>
20
<PAGE> 29
O P T I O N E X E R C I S E S
A N D Y E A R - E N D V A L U E
This table shows the number and value of stock options (exercised and
unexercised) for the Named Executive Officers during 1996. Value is calculated
using the difference between the option exercise price and $43.250 (year-end
stock price) multiplied by the number of shares underlying the option.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
No. of No. of Securities Value of Unexercised
Shares Underlying Unexercised In-the-Money Options
Acquired Options at Fiscal Year-End at Year-End
on Value ------------------------------------------------------------------
Name Exercise Realized Exercisable Unexercisable Exercisable Unexercisable
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
R. K. Elliott 0 0 199,800 1,375,000 $ 3,534,297 $ 85,950
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
T. L. Gossage 84,300 $3,162,575 717,900 411,600 15,946,399 210,100
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
V. J. Corbo 120,900 3,335,120 0 432,200 0 845,710
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
R. J. A. Fraser 5,400 218,533 105,900 127,200 2,371,875 845,710
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
G. MacKenzie 0 0 29,820 284,500 331,190 23,875
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C. D. Miller 0 0 91,800 127,200 1,663,798 845,710
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
The Plain English of Shareholder Value 21
<PAGE> 30
P E N S I O N P L A N S
This table shows the estimated annual pension benefits payable to a covered
participant at normal retirement age under Hercules' qualified benefits pension
plan (Pension Plan), as well as nonqualified supplemental benefits, based on the
stated renumeration and years of service with Hercules and its subsidiaries.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Renumeration 15 Years 20 Years 25 Years 30 Years 35 Years
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
125,000 28,119.00 37,492.00 46,865.00 56,238.00 65,611.00
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
150,000 34,119.00 45,492.00 56,865.00 68,238.00 79,611.00
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
175,000 40,119.00 53,492.00 66,865.00 80,238.00 93,611.00
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
200,000 46,119.00 61,492.00 76,865.00 92,238.00 107,611.00
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
225,000 52,119.00 69,492.00 86,865.00 104,238.00 121,611.00
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
250,000 58,119.00 77,492.00 96,865.00 116,238.00 135,611.00
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
300,000 70,119.00 93,492.00 116,865.00 140,238.00 163,611.00
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
400,000 94,119.00 125,492.00 156,865.00 188,238.00 219,611.00
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
450,000 106,119.00 141,492.00 176,865.00 212,238.00 247,611.00
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
500,000 118,119.00 157,492.00 196,865.00 236,238.00 275,611.00
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
600,000 142,119.00 189,492.00 236,865.00 284,238.00 331,611.00
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
700,000 166,119.00 221,492.00 276,865.00 332,238.00 387,611.00
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
750,000 178,119.00 237,492.00 296,865.00 356,238.00 415,611.00
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
800,000 190,119.00 253,492.00 316,865.00 380,238.00 443,611.00
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
900,000 214,119.00 285,492.00 356,865.00 428,238.00 499,611.00
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1,000,000 238,119.00 317,492.00 396,865.00 476,238.00 555,611.00
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1,500,000 358,119.00 477,492.00 596,865.00 716,238.00 835,611.00
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1,750,000 418,119.00 557,492.00 696,865.00 836,238.00 975,611.00
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2,000,000 478,119.00 637,492.00 796,865.00 956,238.00 1,115,611.00
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
Annual contributions by Hercules to the Pension Plan, if required, are
determined by an independent actuary, and no amount is attributed to an
individual employee. Due to the funded status of the Pension Plan, there was no
Hercules contribution in 1996.
Except in special cases, the aggregate retirement benefit, under both the
qualified and nonqualified plans, is a monthly amount determined by taking the
sum of 1) 1.2% of the employee's average monthly earnings (based on the highest
five consecutive calendar years during the last ten calendar years of
employment) up to one-half the Social Security Tax Base ($62,700 in 1996), and
2) 1.6% of the employee's average monthly earnings (as determined above) in
excess of one-half of the Social Security Tax Base, multiplied by the employee's
total years and months of credited service. For this purpose, "average monthly
earnings" consist of salary plus annual incentive or bonus compensation.
For Messrs. Elliott, Gossage, Corbo, Fraser, MacKenzie and Miller,
compensation used for calculating retirement income benefits consists of the
highest five consecutive years of average monthly earnings. These amounts for
1996 are shown under the "Salary" and "Bonus" columns of the Summary
Compensation Table. The estimated credited years of service for Messrs. Elliott,
Gossage, Corbo, Fraser, MacKenzie and Miller are 15, 35, 27, 23, 17 and 29,
respectively.
22
<PAGE> 31
O T H E R I N F O R M A T I O N
SPECIAL AGREEMENTS: Since 1986, Hercules entered into agreements with certain
employee directors, officers (including the Named Executive Officers) and a
limited number of other key management personnel, that become operative only
upon a change of control of Hercules or other specified event(1).
These agreements provide for the continuation of salary and benefits for a
maximum period of three years after a change in control, but may terminate
sooner. The contracting executive will receive three additional years of service
for calculating pension benefits. The contracting executive shall have up to
five years added to his age if he takes an unreduced early retirement (provided
no credit shall accrue beyond his 65th birthday).
INDEMNIFICATION POLICY: It is Hercules' policy to indemnify its officers and
directors against any costs, expenses and other liabilities to which they may
become subject by reason of their service to Hercules. To insure against such
liabilities, Hercules' By-Laws require that the Company indemnify and advance
costs and expenses to its directors and officers as permitted by Delaware law.
Hercules has purchased liability insurance for its directors and officers and
has entered into indemnification agreements with certain employee directors,
officers and other key management personnel. This insurance, the indemnification
agreements, and the employment agreements, supplement the provisions in
Hercules' Restated Certificate of Incorporation -- which eliminates the
potential monetary liability of directors to Hercules or its shareholders in
certain situations as permitted by law. The cost for such insurance was $995,080
in 1994; $720,626 in 1995; and $731,510 in 1996.
SECTION 16(A) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE: Based solely on review
of the copies of forms furnished to Hercules, or written representations that no
annual forms (SEC Form 5) were required, Hercules believes that during 1996, all
SEC filings of its officers, directors and 10-percent shareholders complied with
requirements for reporting ownership and changes in ownership of common stock
(pursuant to Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934).
DISCRETIONARY AUTHORITY: If a proposal other than the three listed in the
Notice is presented at the Annual Meeting, your signed proxy card gives
authority to R. Keith Elliott and Richard G. Dahlen to vote on such matters.
AUTOMATIC DIVIDEND REINVESTMENT AND SAVINGS PLAN SHARES: If you participate in
Hercules' automatic dividend reinvestment plan, the number of uncertificated,
whole shares credited to your account on the Record Date are included in the
total number of shares shown on the proxy card. If you participate in any of the
savings plans sponsored by Hercules or any of its subsidiaries, the number of
uncertificated, whole shares credited to your account as of December 31, 1996,
is also included in the total number of shares shown on the proxy card. The
- ---------------
(1) For purposes of these agreements, a "Change in Control" shall be deemed to
have occurred if any person (as defined in Section 3(a)(9) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), as such term is
modified in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Exchange Act), other than (1)
any employee plan established by the company, (2) Hercules or any of
Hercules' affiliates (as defined in Rule 12b-2 promulgated under the
Exchange Act), or (3) a corporation owned, directly or indirectly, by
shareholders of Hercules in substantially the same proportions as their
ownership of Hercules, or becomes the beneficial owner (as defined in Rule
13d-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of
securities of Hercules (not including in the securities beneficially owned
by such person any securities acquired directly from Hercules or its
affiliates) representing 20% or more of either the then outstanding shares
of stock of Hercules ("Stock") or the combined voting power of Hercules'
then outstanding voting securities.
The Plain English of Shareholder Value 23
<PAGE> 32
shares in both the dividend reinvestment plan and the savings plans will be
voted in accordance with your voting instructions, if indicated. If your proxy
card is signed, but does not indicate your voting preferences, Hercules has been
advised by the plan administrator and the plan trustee that your shares will be
voted in favor of each of the items in the Proxy Statement. If a proxy card is
not received, the shares held in your account in the automatic dividend
reinvestment plan will not be voted; however, the shares held by the trustee for
the savings plans will be voted in proportion to the way that the other
participants have voted their proxies.
24
<PAGE> 33
[Camera-ready artwork of directions to Delaware Art Museum]
Take U.S. Interstate 95 to Wilmington Exit 7
(Route 52 North). Follow Route 52 (Pennsylvania
Avenue) to Bancroft Parkway (look for blue
and red Museum sign). Turn right onto Bancroft.
Follow to Kentmere Parkway and turn left (look
for same sign). Follow signs to Museum. Parking
lot and main entrance behind building. Use
Wood Road entrance.
[HERCULES LOGO]
<PAGE> 34
PROXY/VOTING INSTRUCTION CARD
HERCULES INCORPORATED
THIS PROXY IS SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The undersigned hereby appoints R. Keith Elliott and Richard G. Dahlen, and each
of them, acting jointly or severally and with full power of substitution, for
and in the name of the undersigned to vote, as specified on the reverse side,
all shares of common stock of Hercules Incorporated that the undersigned is
entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on Thursday,
April 24, 1997, at 11:00 A.M. at The Delaware Art Museum, 2301 Kentmers Parkway,
Wilmington, DE, or at any adjournment thereof.
The undesigned also hereby revokes previous proxies and acknowledges receipt of
Hercules' Notice of the Annual Meeting and Proxy Statement. This card further
provides voting instructions for shares held for the undersigned in Hercules'
Dividend Reinvestment Plan and the employee savings plans sponsored by Hercules
or any of its subsidiaries.
Your vote is important to us. Feel free to direct your comments to the
Corporate Secretary (800-441-9274).
(CONTINUED AND TO BE SIGNED ON THE REVERSE SIDE)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*FOLD AND DETACH HERE*
<PAGE> 35
Please mark
your votes as
indicated in
this example /x/
The Board recommends a vote FOR Items 1, 2, and 3
1. Re-Election of Directors for a three-year term
FOR WITHHOLD
/ / / /
(01) Richard M. FairBanks, III, (02) Edith E. Holiday
(03) H. Eugene McBrayer and (04) Lee M. Thomas
Withhold vot only from
-------------------------------
2. Ratification of Coopers & Lybrand L.L.P.
as Independent Accountants
FOR AGAINST ABSTAIN
/ / / / / /
3. Amendments to Hercules Incorporated
Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan
FOR AGAINST ABSTAIN
/ / / / / /
Unless otherwise specified, this proxy will be voted FOR items 1, 2, and 3 and
will be voted in the discretion of the proxies on such matters as may properly
come before the meeting or any adjournment thereof.
AS SEATING IS LIMITED TO A FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED BASIS, PLEASE CHECK THIS
BOX IF YOU WOULD LIKE AN ADMISSION TICKET TO ATTEND THE MEETING.
/ /
Signature_________________________Signature______________________Date__________
NOTE: Please sign as Name Appears Hereon. Joint owners should each sign. When
signing as attorney, executor, administrator, trustee, or guardian, please give
full title as such.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*FOLD AND DETACH HERE*
<PAGE> 36
[HERCULES LOGO]
Dear Shareholder:
Hercules is a company focused on shareholder value-plain and simple.
We started down the road of shareholder value in 1991, and I am pleased
to say that "The Journey Continues." As described in our 1996 Annual Report,
our next milestone is 30% of revenues to come from new products; 5% annual cost
improvement in manufacturing; and 15% growth rate in value, all by the year
2000.
The 30-5-15/2000 formula illustrates what we mean by our theme, "The
Plain English of Shareholder Value"-clear direction towards plainly
communicated goals that lead to our shareholders being rewarded through higher
stock price.
-------------------
Sincerely,
/S/ R. KEITH ELLIOTT
--------------------
R. Keith Elliot
CHAIRMAN AND
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
<PAGE> 37
HELP US SAVE MONEY - VOTE BY TELEPHONE [TELEPHONE LOGO]
***IF YOU WISH TO VOTE BY TELEPHONE, PLEASE READ THE INSTRUCTIONS BELOW***
Have your proxy in hand. Decide how you wish to vote.
* On a Touch Tone Telephone call Toll Free 1-888-457-2959 24 hours per day - 7
days a week.
* You will be asked to enter a Control number.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WHEN YOU PRESS 1, YOUR VOTE WILL BE CONFIRMED AND
CAST AS YOU DIRECTED, END OF CALL
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Proposal 1: To vote FOR ALL nominees, press 1; to WITHHOLD FOR ALL nominees,
press 9; To WITHHOLD FOR AN INDIVIDUAL nominee, press 0. Please make your
selection now.
To withhold for individual nominees please enter the two digit number that
appears next to the nominee you DO NOT wish to vote for. Once you have
completed voting for Directors, press 0.
Proposal 2: You may make your selection any time: To vote For, press 1:
Against, press 9: Abstain press 0.
The instructions are the same for all remaining proposal(s).
YOUR VOTE SELECTION WILL BE REPEATED AND YOU WILL
HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO CONFIRM IT.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
