<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:
[X] Preliminary Proxy Statement [ ] Confidential, for Use of the
Commission Only (as permitted by
Rule 14a-6(e)(2))
[ ] Definitive Proxy Statement
[ ] Definitive Additional Materials
[ ] Soliciting Material Pursuant to sec. 240.14a-11(c) or sec. 240.14a-12
THOMAS GROUP, INC.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(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)(l) 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:
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(2) Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.:
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(3) Filing Party:
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(4) Date Filed:
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<PAGE> 2
THOMAS GROUP, INC.
5215 N. O'CONNOR BOULEVARD
SUITE 2500
IRVING, TEXAS 75039-3714
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
TO BE HELD JULY 9, 1998
To the Holders of Common Stock of THOMAS GROUP, INC.:
Notice is hereby given that the 1998 Annual Meeting of Stockholders of
Thomas Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the "Company"), will be held at the
executive offices of the Company, 5215 N. O'Connor Boulevard, Suite 2500,
Irving, Texas 75039, on Thursday, July 9, 1998 at 9:00 A.M., Dallas, Texas time,
for the following purposes:
(1) To elect four persons to serve as directors until the Company's
1999 Annual Meeting of Stockholders or until their successors are duly
elected and qualified; and
(2) To consider and vote upon an amendment to the Company's Amended
and Restated Certificate of Incorporation ("Certificate of Incorporation")
increasing the number of authorized shares of Common Stock from 12,500,000
to 25,000,000; and
(3) To consider and vote upon an amendment to the Certificate of
Incorporation to authorize the issuance of up to 1,000,000 shares of
Preferred Stock, par value $.01 per share, upon the determination of the
Board of Directors; and
(4) To transact such other business as may properly come before the
meeting or any adjournments or postponements thereof.
The Board of Directors has fixed May 13, 1998, at the close of business, as
the record date for the determination of stockholders entitled to notice of, and
to vote at, the meeting and any adjournment or postponement thereof. Only
holders of record of the Company's Common Stock on that date are entitled to
vote on matters coming before the meeting and any adjournment or postponement
thereof. A complete list of stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting will be
maintained in the Company's offices at 5215 N. O'Connor Boulevard, Suite 2500,
Irving, Texas 75039-3714, for 10 days prior to the meeting.
Please advise the Company's transfer agent, Harris Trust and Savings Bank,
5050 Renaissance Tower, 120 Elm Street, Dallas, Texas 75270, of any change in
your address.
YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT. WHETHER OR NOT YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THE ANNUAL
MEETING, PLEASE SIGN AND DATE THE ENCLOSED PROXY AND RETURN IT IN THE ENVELOPE
PROVIDED, WHICH REQUIRES NO POSTAGE IF MAILED WITHIN THE UNITED STATES. IF YOU
RECEIVE MORE THAN ONE PROXY CARD BECAUSE YOUR SHARES ARE REGISTERED IN DIFFERENT
NAMES OR AT DIFFERENT ADDRESSES, EACH SUCH PROXY CARD SHOULD BE SIGNED AND
RETURNED TO ENSURE THAT ALL OF YOUR SHARES WILL BE VOTED. THE PROXY CARD SHOULD
BE SIGNED BY ALL REGISTERED HOLDERS EXACTLY AS THE SHARES ARE REGISTERED. ANY
PERSON GIVING A PROXY HAS THE POWER TO REVOKE IT AT ANY TIME PRIOR TO ITS
EXERCISE AND, IF PRESENT AT THE MEETING, MAY WITHDRAW IT AND VOTE IN PERSON.
By Order of the Board of Directors,
/s/ J. THOMAS WILLIAMS
J. THOMAS WILLIAMS
Chief Executive Officer
Irving, Texas
June 11, 1998
<PAGE> 3
THOMAS GROUP, INC.
5215 N. O'CONNOR BOULEVARD
SUITE 2500
IRVING, TEXAS 75039-3714
------------------
PROXY STATEMENT
------------------
PROXY STATEMENT FOR ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
TO BE HELD JULY 9, 1998
The accompanying proxy, mailed together with this Proxy Statement to
stockholders on or about June 11, 1998, is solicited by Thomas Group, Inc. (the
"Company") in connection with the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on
July 9, 1998 (the "Annual Meeting").
As stated in the Notice to which this Proxy Statement is attached, matters
to be acted upon at the Annual Meeting include (1) the election to the Board of
Directors of four directors to serve as directors until the Company's 1999
Annual Meeting of Stockholders or until their successors are duly elected and
qualified, (2) an amendment to the Company's Amended and Restated Certificate of
Incorporation ("Certificate of Incorporation") increasing the number of its
authorized shares of Common Stock from 12,500,000 to 25,000,000, (3) an
amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation to authorize the issuance of up to
1,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock, par value $.01 per share, upon the
determination of the Board of Directors, and (4) the transaction of such other
business as may properly come before the Annual Meeting or any adjournments or
postponements thereof.
All holders of record of shares of the Company's Common Stock, par value
$.01 per share (the "Common Stock"), at the close of business on May 13, 1998
(the "Record Date") are entitled to notice of and to vote at the Annual Meeting.
On the Record Date, the Company had outstanding 4,707,724 shares of Common
Stock. Each share of Common Stock is entitled to one vote. The presence, in
person or by proxy, of holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of Common
Stock entitled to vote as of the Record Date is necessary to constitute a quorum
at the Annual Meeting. A plurality of the votes of the shares present in person
or represented by proxy at the Annual Meeting, provided a quorum is present, is
required for the election of directors. Approval of each of the proposals to
amend the Certificate of Incorporation requires the affirmative vote of at least
a majority of the issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock. All other
action proposed herein may be taken upon the affirmative vote of holders of a
majority of the shares of Common Stock represented at the Annual Meeting,
provided a quorum is present in person or by proxy.
With regard to the election of directors, votes may be cast in favor or
withheld; votes that are withheld will be excluded entirely from the vote and
will have no effect. Abstentions may be specified on all other proposals and
will be counted as present for purposes of the item on which the abstention is
noted. Abstentions on the proposals to amend the Certificate of Incorporation
will have the effect of a negative vote because those proposals require the
affirmative vote of holders of at least a majority of the issued and outstanding
shares of Common Stock. Brokers who hold shares in street name for customers and
do not receive voting instructions from such customers are entitled to vote on
the election of directors and will also have discretionary authority to vote on
the proposal to increase the number of authorized shares of Common Stock. Under
applicable Delaware law, a broker non-vote resulting from the failure to deliver
voting instructions to a broker will have (i) the effect of a negative vote on
the proposals to amend the Certificate of Incorporation and (ii) no effect on
the election of directors.
Any stockholder has the unconditional right to revoke his proxy at any time
before it is voted. Any proxy given may be revoked either by a written notice
duly signed and delivered to the Secretary of the Company prior to the exercise
of the proxy, by execution of a subsequent proxy or by voting in person at the
Annual Meeting (although attending the Annual Meeting without executing a ballot
or executing a subsequent proxy will not constitute revocation of a proxy).
Where a stockholder's duly executed proxy specifies a choice with respect to a
voting matter, the shares will be voted accordingly. If no such specification is
made, the shares will
<PAGE> 4
be voted (i) FOR the nominees for director identified below, (ii) FOR the
proposal to increase the number of authorized shares of Common Stock, and (iii)
FOR the proposal to authorize the issuance of up to 1,000,000 shares of
Preferred Stock.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The following table sets forth certain information regarding beneficial
ownership of the Company's Common Stock as of April 30, 1998, by (i) each
director, nominee for director and named executive officer of the Company, (ii)
all officers and directors of the Company as a group, and (iii) all persons who
are known by the Company to be beneficial owners of 5% or more of the Company's
outstanding Common Stock.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NAME AND ADDRESS OF BENEFICIAL OWNER SHARES OWNED(1) PERCENT
------------------------------------ --------------- -------
<S> <C> <C>
John T. Chain, Jr.(2)....................................... 59,214(3) 1.3
J. Thomas Williams(2)....................................... 21,651(4) *
Richard A. Freytag(2)....................................... 4,625(5) *
Philip R. Thomas(2)......................................... 887,195(6) 16.4
James E. Dykes(2)........................................... 59,214(7) 1.3
Alexander W. Young(2)....................................... 144,171(8) 3.0
David B. Mathis(2).......................................... -- *
Leland L. Grubb, Jr.(2)..................................... 42,986(9) *
Herbert D. Locke(2)......................................... 43,927(10) *
Roger A. Crabb(2)........................................... 4,134(11) *
All officers and directors as a group (9 persons)........... 1,241,626(12) 22.7
Capital Research and Management Company..................... 388,500 8.3
333 South Hope Street
Los Angeles, California 90071
Kennedy Capital Management.................................. 377,100 8.0
10829 Olive Boulevard
St. Louis, Missouri 63141
</TABLE>
- ---------------
* Less than 1%
(1) Except as otherwise indicated, the persons named in the table possess sole
voting and investment power with respect to all shares of Common Stock
shown as beneficially owned by them. Includes shares of Common Stock held
by spouses and minor children of such persons and corporations in which
such persons hold a controlling interest. The amount shown also includes
shares of Class B Common Stock, par value $.01 per share (the "Class B
Common Stock"), of the Company. Holders of Class B Common Stock have rights
identical to holders of Common Stock, except that holders of Class B Common
Stock have no voting rights, other than as required by Delaware law. There
are no matters to be considered at the Annual Meeting that holders of Class
B Common Stock would be entitled to vote on under Delaware law. Class B
Common Stock is owned by the persons set forth above as follows: Mr.
Thomas, 140,460 shares; and all officers and directors as a group, 140,460
shares. The amounts shown in the table include shares of Common Stock and
Class B Common Stock issuable upon exercise of outstanding options
exercisable within 60 days of April 30, 1998.
(2) The address of the named individuals is 5215 N. O'Connor Boulevard, Suite
2500, Irving, Texas 75039-3714.
(3) Includes 10,982 shares of Common Stock which may be issued within 60 days
of April 30, 1998 upon exercise of outstanding options.
(4) Includes 20,471 shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of
outstanding options exercisable within 60 days of April 30, 1998.
(5) Includes 4,625 shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of outstanding
options exercisable within 60 days of April 30, 1998.
2
<PAGE> 5
(6) Includes 564,841 shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of
outstanding options exercisable within 60 days of April 30, 1998.
(7) Includes 30,491 shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of
outstanding options exercisable within 60 days of April 30, 1998.
(8) Includes 83,582 shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of
outstanding options exercisable within 60 days of April 30, 1998.
(9) Includes 37,986 shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of
outstanding options exercisable within 60 days of April 30, 1998.
(10) Includes 3,462 shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of outstanding
options exercisable within 60 days of April 30, 1998.
(11) Includes 4,134 shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of outstanding
options exercisable within 60 days of April 30, 1998.
(12) The amount shown includes a total of 760,574 shares of Common Stock
issuable upon exercise of outstanding options exercisable within 60 days of
April 30, 1998.
ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
The Company's Bylaws provide that the number of directors that shall
constitute the entire Board of Directors shall not be less than one and shall be
fixed from time to time exclusively by the Board of Directors. The Board of
Directors has set the number of directors at [ ]. The [ ]
nominees for director listed below will stand for election at this Annual
Meeting for a one-year term of office expiring at the 1999 Annual Meeting of
Stockholders or until their successors are duly elected and qualified.
The following table sets forth certain information as to the nominees for
directors of the Company:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NAME AND AGE POSITIONS AND OFFICES WITH THE COMPANY DIRECTOR SINCE
------------ -------------------------------------- --------------
<S> <C> <C>
J. Thomas Williams, 51........... President, Chief Executive Officer, Chief 1998
Operating Officer, Director
John T. Chain, Jr., 63........... Chairman of the Board 1995
Richard A. Freytag, 64........... Director 1997
David B. Mathis.................. None --
</TABLE>
David B. Mathis serves as chairman and chief executive officer of Kemper
Insurance Companies, which has operations in commercial and personal insurance,
risk management, and reinsurance. Mr. Mathis' long career with Kemper has
included executive assignments with both Kemper Insurance Companies and Kemper
Corporation, its former publicly owned affiliate. Mr. Mathis serves on the board
of directors of the American Insurance Association, IMC Global Inc., and
Evanston Northwestern Healthcare, and serves on the board of trustees of Lake
Forest College.
While it is not anticipated that any of the nominees will be unable to
serve, if any nominee should decline or become unable to serve as a director for
any reason, votes will be cast instead for a substitute nominee designated by
the Board of Directors or, if none is so designated, will be cast according to
the judgment of the person or persons voting the proxy.
3
<PAGE> 6
DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
The executive officers of the Company serve at the will of the Board of
Directors.
J. Thomas Williams became associated with the Company in 1992 and currently
serves as President, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer. Prior
to joining the Company, Mr. Williams served as the Industrial Facilities Policy
Director for the United States Navy and as Chief Financial Officer for the Long
Beach Naval Shipyards.
Leland L. Grubb, Jr., 52, has been associated with the Company since April
1995 and currently serves as Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and
Treasurer, and President of the Automotive Business Unit. Prior to joining the
Company, Mr. Grubb served from January 1988 to January 1995 as Chief Financial
Officer of Detroit Diesel Corporation, a manufacturer of diesel engines and
related parts, and held senior financial positions with General Motors
Corporation from July 1968 to December 1987.
Herbert D. Locke, 60, joined the Company in 1994 and currently serves as
Vice President of the Company and President of the Asia/Pacific Business Unit.
From 1993 to 1994, Mr. Locke served as Vice President, Operations at Farr
Company, a California-based company engaged in the air and gas filtration
industry. Prior to that time, Mr. Locke served in various managerial capacities
for Texas Instruments Incorporated, most recently in the Asia Pacific region.
Roger A. Crabb, 44, joined the Company in May 1994 as Legal Counsel and
became Secretary in May 1995. Immediately prior to joining the Company, Mr.
Crabb had a private law practice, and from 1988 to 1993, Mr. Crabb served as
Associate General Counsel of Triton Energy Limited, a publicly-held oil and gas
exploration company.
John T. Chain, Jr. was elected director of the Company in May 1995 and as
Chairman of the Board in May 1998. Since December 1996, Mr. Chain has served as
President of Quarterdeck Equity Partners, Inc., a company involved in the
acquisition of suppliers to the defense and aerospace industry. Mr. Chain served
from 1991 until early 1996 as Executive Vice President for Burlington Northern
Santa Fe Corporation. From 1986 to 1991, Mr. Chain was Commander in Chief of the
U.S. Strategic Air Command. Mr. Chain currently serves on the board of directors
for Kemper, Northrop Grumman Corporation, RJR Nabisco Holdings Corp. and Nabisco
Holdings, Inc.
Richard A. Freytag was elected director of the Company in September 1997.
Mr. Freytag served as president of Citicorp Banking Corporation from 1984 until
1989, when he was appointed chief executive officer. Mr. Freytag retired as an
officer of Citicorp Banking Corporation in 1996 and remained both as an outside
director and as vice chairman until January 1, 1998, when he retired as a
director. Mr. Freytag also served as a director of Citicorp Holdings, Inc.,
Citibank Overseas Investment Corporation and Citibank Delaware until January 1,
1998, at which time he retired.
COMMITTEES AND MEETINGS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Board of Directors has established three committees: an Audit
Committee, a Finance Committee, and a Nominating, Corporate Governance and
Compensation Committee.
The Audit Committee, currently composed of Messrs. Chain and Freytag, met
six times during the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997. This committee
monitors and makes recommendations to the Board of Directors on matters
pertaining to the financial management of the Company, including monitoring the
adequacy and effectiveness of the internal and external audit functions, control
systems, financial accounting and reporting, and adherence to applicable legal,
ethical and regulatory requirements. Prior to the mailing of this Proxy
Statement to the stockholders of the Company, the committee met with the
Company's independent auditors to review the plan and scope of the 1997 audit
and the significant accounting policies and internal controls.
4
<PAGE> 7
The Finance Committee, currently composed of Messrs. Chain and Freytag, met
six times during the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997. The Finance Committee
reviews the financial performance and cash flow of the Company, and makes
recommendations on financial matters such as capital expenditures and dividend
policy.
The Nominating, Corporate Governance and Compensation Committee, currently
composed of Messrs. Chain and Freytag, met six times during the fiscal year
ended December 31, 1997. The Nominating, Corporate Governance and Compensation
Committee makes recommendations to the Board of Directors regarding potential
nominees to the Board, overseas the performance and effectiveness of the Board,
reviews the Company's compensation policies, determines the amount and form of
compensation and benefits payable to officers, reviews and approves significant
stock option awards, and establishes succession plans for executives of the
Company.
The Board of Directors held eight meetings during the fiscal year ended
December 31, 1997. All of the directors attended at least 75% of the meetings of
the Board of Directors and its committees on which they served.
5
<PAGE> 8
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
The following table sets forth the total compensation paid or accrued by
the Company for services rendered during each of the three years ended December
31, 1997, to (i) the Company's then-current Chief Executive Officer and (ii) the
four other most highly compensated executive officers (collectively, the "named
executive officers") whose total cash compensation for the year ended December
31, 1997 exceeded $100,000.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
LONG-TERM
COMPENSATION
ANNUAL COMPENSATION ------------
------------------------------------ SECURITIES
OTHER ANNUAL UNDERLYING ALL OTHER
NAME & PRINCIPAL POSITION YEAR SALARY BONUS COMPENSATION OPTIONS COMPENSATION
------------------------- ---- -------- ---------- ------------ ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Philip R. Thomas, 1997 -- $1,199,000 $55,600(1) -- $ 33,825(2)
Chairman of the Board and 1996 -- -- 56,000 -- 58,354
Chief Executive Officer 1995 -- 1,949,000 56,000 -- 293,930
Alexander W. Young, 1997 $385,000 37,000 9,600(1) -- 23,350(3)
President and 1996 385,000 -- 7,200 -- 4,750
Chief Operating Officer 1995 359,000 197,000 7,000 -- 4,620
James E. Dykes, 1997 155,300 17,000 -- 52,396 106,700(4)
Executive Vice President 1996 -- -- -- -- --
1995 -- -- -- -- --
Leland L. Grubb, 1997 300,000 39,600 7,200(1) -- 950(5)
Vice President and Chief 1996 300,000 -- 7,200 -- 950
Financial Officer 1995 140,000 11,000 4,800 -- --
J. Thomas Williams, 1997 250,000 31,900 -- -- 33,851(6)
Vice President(7) 1996
1995
</TABLE>
- ---------------
(1) Represents car allowances for the benefit of the named executive officers.
(2) Represents $26,700 in life insurance premiums and the Company's contribution
of $7,125 to such officer's account under the Company's 401(k) Plan.
(3) Represents $18,600 in life insurance premiums and the Company's contribution
of $4,750 to such officer's account under the Company's 401(k) Plan.
(4) Represents a relocation allowance.
(5) Represents the Company's contribution to such officer's account under the
Company's 401(k) plan.
(6) Represents a cost of living adjustment of $31,300 for overseas duty and per
diem amounts, and the Company's contribution of $2,375 to such officer's
account under the Company's 401(k) Plan.
(7) No information is provided for those fiscal years during which Mr. Williams
did not serve as an executive officer of the Company.
6
<PAGE> 9
STOCK OPTION GRANTS
The following table provides information concerning the grant of stock
options during the year ended December 31, 1997 to the named executive officers.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDIVIDUAL GRANTS
------------------------------------------------------------ POTENTIAL REALIZABLE VALUE AT
NUMBER OF % OF TOTAL ASSUMED ANNUAL RATES OF
SECURITIES OPTIONS MARKET STOCK PRICE APPRECIATION FOR
UNDERLYING GRANTED TO PRICE OPTION TERM(1)
OPTIONS EMPLOYEES IN EXERCISE ON DATE EXPIRATION ------------------------------
NAME GRANTED(2) FISCAL YEAR PRICE OF GRANT DATE 0% 5% 10%
- ---- ---------- ------------ -------- -------- ---------- ---- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Philip R. Thomas........... -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Alexander W. Young......... -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
James E. Dykes............. 50,000 20.8 $ 8.63 $ 8.63 5/13/07 -- $271,200 $687,300
1,332 .6 9.38 9.38 3/13/07 -- 7,900 19,900
1,064 .4 11.75 11.75 6/30/07 -- 7,900 19,900
Leland L. Grubb............ -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
J. Thomas Williams......... 5,000 2.1 9.5 9.5 5/15/07 -- 29,900 75,700
10,000 4.2 11.69 11.69 12/17/07 -- 126,100 371,300
</TABLE>
- ---------------
(1) Potential realizable value is the amount that would be realized upon
exercise by the named executive officer of the options immediately prior to
the expiration of their respective terms, assuming the specified compound
annual rates of appreciation on Common Stock over the respective terms of
the options. These amounts represent assumed rates of appreciation only.
Actual gains, if any, on stock option exercises depend on the future
performance of the Common Stock and overall market conditions. There can be
no assurances that the potential values reflected in this table will be
achieved.
(2) These options generally vest with respect to 20% of the shares issuable
thereunder on the date of grant and 20% annually thereafter, with
incremental monthly vesting.
OPTION EXERCISES AND HOLDINGS
The following table provides information related to the number of shares
received upon exercise of options, the aggregate dollar value realized upon
exercise and the number and value of options held by the named executive
officers of the Company at December 31, 1997.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
UNEXERCISED OPTIONS AT DECEMBER 31, 1997
----------------------------------------------------------
NUMBER OF
SHARES SECURITIES UNDERLYING VALUE OF UNEXPIRED
ACQUIRED VALUE UNEXERCISED OPTIONS IN-THE-MONEY OPTIONS
NAME ON EXERCISE REALIZED EXERCISABLE/UNEXERCISABLE EXERCISABLE/UNEXERCISABLE(1)
- ---- ----------- -------- ------------------------- ----------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Philip R. Thomas.................... -- -- 189,621/ 953 $ 4,700/$ 3,600
Alexander W. Young.................. -- -- 81,061/ 9,203 405,000/ 40,200
James E. Dykes...................... -- -- 23,282/88,114 63,100/ 268,000
Leland L. Grubb..................... -- -- 32,467/26,533 1,600/ 19,900
J. Thomas Williams.................. 120 $700 4,295/40,105 8,700/ 105,700
</TABLE>
- ---------------
(1) For purposes of this table, the value of the Common Stock is $11.75 per
share, the average of the high and low sale prices of the Common Stock on
December 31, 1997 as reported on the NASDAQ National Market System, and the
value of the Class B Common Stock is $8.225 (70% of $11.75).
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS OF CERTAIN EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
Mr. Williams is employed by the Company under an employment agreement which
became effective March 10, 1998. Mr. Dykes and Mr. Grubb are employed by the
Company under employment agreements which became effective in July 1997 and
April 1995, respectively. Mr. Thomas was employed by the Company under an
employment agreement which became effective January 2, 1998 (amended effective
March 31, 1998).
7
<PAGE> 10
Mr. Williams' employment agreement provides for base compensation in the
initial amount of $370,000, Mr. Dykes' employment agreement provides for base
compensation in the initial amount of $330,000, and Mr. Grubb's employment
agreement provides for base compensation in the initial amount of $300,000, with
each of such officers' base compensation potentially adjusted annually by the
Nominating, Corporate Governance and Compensation Committee of the Board. The
employment agreements provide for additional compensation, calculated according
to a formula based on the Company's profits and growth in profits, payable in
cash up to a specified amount and in stock options thereafter. The stock options
granted under such officers' employment agreements will have exercise prices
equal to the market price per share of the Common Stock on the date of grant,
will be fully vested, and will expire 10 years from the date of grant.
Mr. Williams' employment agreement has a five-year term, Mr. Dykes'
employment agreement has a three-year term, and Mr. Grubb's employment agreement
has a five-year term. The employment agreements may be extended by mutual
agreement.
The employment agreements may be terminated by the employee upon one year's
notice to the Company. The employment agreements may be terminated by the
Company with or without cause, by the employee with or without "Good Reason",
upon the disability of the employee, or upon the occurrence of a "Change in
Control" of the Company. A "Change in Control" is defined as the occurrence of
any of the following events: (i) a third party acquires securities representing
40% or more of the Common Stock or the combined voting power of the Company's
outstanding securities, (ii) the number of directors of the Company as of the
date of the employment agreements plus the number of directors approved by
two-thirds of those initial directors (or their approved successors) cease to
constitute, in the aggregate, a majority of the members of the Board, (iii)
certain reorganizations, consolidations or mergers involving the Company, or
(iv) a dissolution or liquidation of the Company in certain circumstances. "Good
Reason" is defined to include the failure of the Board to nominate the employee
to stand for election as a director of the Company or the significant diminution
of the employee's responsibilities. In the event of a termination of the
employee by the Company without cause, by the employee with "Good Reason," upon
the disability of the employee, or upon a Change in Control, any of the
employee's stock options that are not fully vested will become fully vested and
immediately exercisable and the employee is entitled to a lump sum cash payment
based on the average compensation paid to the employee during the previous four
years. In the event of termination by the Company with cause or by the employee
without Good Reason, the employee is entitled (i) to reimbursement for expenses
incurred prior to termination, (ii) to the payment of bonuses or incentive
compensation and (iii) to exercise vested options for a period of 90 days. If
the employment of Mr. Dykes or Mr. Grubb had been terminated without cause as of
January 1, 1998, such executives would have been entitled to receive severance
payments of approximately $172,000 and $423,000, respectively. The employment
agreements also contain non-competition, non-solicitation and confidentiality
covenants.
Mr. Thomas' employment agreement provided that in his capacity as Chairman
and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Thomas received base compensation in the amount
of $600,000 annually. The employment agreement provided for additional incentive
compensation, calculated according to a formula based on the Company's profits
and growth in profits, payable in cash. Mr. Thomas' employment agreement also
provided for an initial grant of stock options whose vesting has been
accelerated. By virtue of Mr. Thomas' retirement, Mr. Thomas is entitled to
receive a severance of $1.8 million and the immediate vesting of 375,000 options
granted on January 2, 1998. Mr. Thomas' employment agreement contained "change
of control" provisions which mirror those contained in the employment agreements
of Messrs. Williams, Dykes and Grubb, described above.
DIRECTORS' COMPENSATION
Each non-employee director serving for the entirety of the 1997 calendar
year earned fees of $25,000 in cash and an aggregate of 4,431 options to
purchase shares of Common Stock of the Company. In addition, all directors were
reimbursed for their out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with their
attendance at Board and committee meetings. Directors who are employees of the
Company did not receive any compensation in their capacity as directors.
8
<PAGE> 11
REPORT OF THE NOMINATING, CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND COMPENSATION COMMITTEE ON
EXECUTIVE
COMPENSATION
The Nominating, Corporate Governance and Compensation Committee (the
"Committee") consists of Board members who are "disinterested persons" as that
term is defined in the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and who are "outside
directors" under the Internal Revenue Code.
The Company's executive compensation policy is based on
pay-for-performance. For the Company's senior management, comprised of Messrs.
Williams, Dykes and Grubb, the Company has established fixed and incentive
components of compensation, where the incentive component is tied specifically
to Company growth and performance.
For Mr. Williams, Mr. Dykes and Mr. Grubb, incentive compensation is
determined by multiplying the Company's revenues by a sharing ratio and then by
a factor defined as the entitled percentage. The entitled percentage may be
adjusted at the Committee's discretion. The sharing ratio takes into account two
factors: the growth rate of income before tax and incentive compensation
("IBTIC"), and IBTIC as a percent of revenue. The sharing ratio method was
chosen because the Committee desired to balance the goals of maximizing profits
with the growth of the Company's business.
For Mr. Williams, Mr. Dykes and Mr. Grubb, the sharing ratio matrix adopted
by the Board is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SHARING RATIO (%)
IBTIC GROWTH RATE
IBTIC AS % OF -------------------------------------------------
REVENUE STANDARD INCENTIVE
- ------------- -------------------------------------------------
<5% 5-9.99% 10-14.99% 15-24.99% OVER 25%
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
0-8.99% 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.2 0.3
9.00-14.99% 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7
15.00-19.25% 0.5 0.6 0.8 1.0 1.2
Over 19.25% 0.8 1.0 1.3 1.6 1.8
</TABLE>
By way of example, if for a given year revenues are $60 million, IBTIC is
$11.6 million (19.3% of revenue) and IBTIC for the prior year was $8.9 million,
then the IBTIC growth rate is 30.3% and the sharing ratio would be 1.8% of
revenues.
If an officer's entitled percentage was 0.0825, incentive compensation
would be calculated as $60 million (revenue) X .018 (sharing ratio X .0825
(entitled percentage), or $89,100. Officer cash incentive compensation is
limited to a percentage of fixed compensation. If the formula generates an
excess over this limit, stock options are awarded with the number of shares
determined by dividing the excess by the market price of the Company's Common
Stock on date of grant.
By providing direct links between compensation and performance, the
Committee is confident that the incentive compensation program for the CEO and
other officers of the Company aligns management's interests with the long-term
interests of the stockholders.
The preceding report was issued by the Nominating, Corporate Governance and
Compensation Committee, comprised of:
John T. Chain, Jr.
Richard A. Freytag
9
<PAGE> 12
NOMINATING, CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND
INSIDER PARTICIPATION
Compensation decisions with respect to the executive officers of the
Company are made by the Nominating, Corporate Governance and Compensation
Committee of the Board, which is comprised of Mr. Chain and Mr. Freytag.
COMPARISON OF TOTAL SHAREHOLDER RETURN
The following performance graph shall not be deemed incorporated by
reference by any general statement incorporating by reference this proxy
statement into any filing under the 1933 Act or the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, except to the extent that the Company specifically incorporates this
information by reference, and shall not otherwise be deemed filed under such
Acts.
The following graph sets forth the Company's total shareholder return as
compared to the NASDAQ Stock Market (US) Index and an index of companies having
a market capitalization of $50 million to $75 million, over the period beginning
August 19, 1993 and ending December 31, 1997. The total shareholder return
assumes $100 invested at the beginning of the period in the Company's Common
Stock, the NASDAQ Stock Market (US) Index and the index of companies having a
market capitalization of $50 million to $75 million. The Company has chosen an
index of companies having a market capitalization of $50 million to $75 million
for the following reasons: this is the historical market capitalization range
for the Company's Common Stock, the stock price performance for companies in
that range tends to react to market forces in a similar fashion, and the Company
has no true public company peer group.
10
<PAGE> 13
TOTAL SHAREHOLDER RETURN FOR THOMAS GROUP, INC.,
NASDAQ STOCK MARKET (US) INDEX
AND
COMPANIES WITH MARKET CAPITALIZATION OF
$50 MILLION TO $75 MILLION
COMPARE 5-YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN
AMONG THOMAS GROUP, INC.,
NASDAQ MARKET INDEX AND PEER GROUP INDEX
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MEASUREMENT PERIOD THOMAS PEER GROUP NASDAQ
(FISCAL YEAR COVERED) GROUP, INC. INDEX MARKET INDEX
<S> <C> <C> <C>
8/19/93 100 100 100
12/31/93 129.63 110.60 101.66
12/31/94 46.30 81.27 106.74
12/31/95 100.00 90.70 138.45
12/31/96 66.67 83.26 172.04
12/31/97 92.59 81.11 210.45
</TABLE>
ASSUMES $100 INVESTED ON AUGUST 19, 1993
ASSUMED DIVIDEND REINVESTED
FISCAL YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31, 1997
CERTAIN TRANSACTIONS
Through January 1, 1997 the Company employed two sales executives whose
focus was acquiring new business through relationships in the investment banking
community. These executives have an ownership interest in Celerity Partners, a
limited partnership (the "Partnership") which invests in companies whose
competitiveness within a particular industry may be significantly improved. The
general partner of the Partnership is a limited liability company ("Celerity
LLC"), in which Mr. Thomas owns a 40% equity interest. The Company's board of
directors precluded Mr. Thomas from negotiating or approving contracts with any
potential client in which the Partnership holds or is negotiating an ownership
interest, and also precluded Mr. Thomas from negotiating the Company's
agreements with Celerity LLC. During 1997, the Company entered into a "finders
agreement" with the Partnership which would compensate the Partnership when it
delivers potential clients who ultimately enter into a business improvement
program. The Company made advances to Celerity LLC in 1997 in the amount of $0.2
million, against future finders fees.
During 1996 the Company made advances to Mr. Thomas premised upon
anticipated revenues and net income for the year. Such revenues and net income
did not exceed the thresholds set in Mr. Thomas' employment agreement;
consequently, Mr. Thomas earned no incentive compensation in 1996 and executed a
11
<PAGE> 14
promissory note payable to the Company in the amount of $1,500,000 to repay such
advances to the Company. The note was initially due September 25, 1997, carried
an interest rate of prime plus 1/4%, was extended, and has been paid by Mr.
Thomas as a result of the Company's purchase of shares from Mr. Thomas, as
described in the following paragraph. In 1997, Mr. Thomas earned $0.8 million in
incentive compensation and was paid compensation advances of $1.4 million. The
excess of $0.6 million was repaid through the tender of shares to the Company,
as described in the following paragraph.
On February 19, 1998, the Company entered into a stock purchase agreement
with Mr. Philip R. Thomas, then-current Chairman and Chief Executive Officer,
for an undetermined number of shares of common stock in exchange for $8.2
million in cash and the satisfaction of a $2.3 million outstanding debt to the
Company. Pursuant to the stock purchase agreement, Mr. Thomas tendered to the
Company 1.4 million shares to be held in escrow until such time as a final
reconciliation was performed. The number of shares ultimately purchased from Mr.
Thomas -- 1,277,627 shares -- was determined on April 27, 1998 based upon a
formula and at a discount to market. The Company utilized an investment banking
firm to determine the appropriate discount factor. All excess shares held in
escrow were returned to Mr. Thomas.
In 1996, as part of the arrangement for Mr. Williams to serve as the
President of the European business unit, the Company advanced $200,000 to Mr.
Williams. The advance was evidenced by a promissory note dated December 18,
1996. The promissory note bears interest at 0% and is payable in full on
December 18, 2000.
*****
PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
TO INCREASE THE AUTHORIZED COMMON STOCK
The Thomas Group Board of Directors is submitting to stockholders a
proposal to amend the Certificate of Incorporation to increase the number of
authorized shares of Common Stock from 12,500,000 to 25,000,000.
The Board of Directors believes that this amendment is in the best interest
of the Company and its stockholders because it would provide greater flexibility
to the Board of Directors to issue additional equity securities, for example, to
raise additional capital, to provide stock related employee benefits, to effect
stock splits of the outstanding Common Stock, and to effect acquisitions of
other businesses if favorable opportunities become available. It is important
for the Company's Board of Directors to have the flexibility to act promptly to
address future business needs as they arise. Other than issuances of shares of
Common Stock pursuant to the Company's option plans and upon the exercise of
warrants, the Company has no current plans to issue any newly authorized shares
of Common Stock.
The text of the proposed amendment is set forth on Annex I, which is
attached to and made a part of this Proxy Statement. Stockholders are encouraged
to read carefully the full text of the amendment.
Of the 12,500,000 shares of Common Stock currently authorized for issuance
under the Company's Restated Articles of Incorporation, the Company had
4,707,724 shares issued and outstanding on April 30, 1998. As of such date, the
Company also had no shares subject to issuance pursuant to the Company's 1988
Stock Option Plan, 162,528 shares subject to issuance pursuant to the Company's
1992 Stock Option Plan, 125,000 shares subject to issuance pursuant to the
Company's 1997 Stock Option Plan, and 225,000 shares subject to issuance upon
the exercise of warrants.
The availability of an adequate supply of authorized and unissued shares of
Common Stock provides the Company flexibility by allowing shares to be issued
for general corporate needs without the delay and expense incident to the
holding of a special meeting of stockholders to consider any specific issuance.
Stockholders should note that certain disadvantages may result from the
authorization of additional shares of Common Stock. For example, the issuance of
a significant amount of Common Stock could result in a significant dilution of
the beneficial ownership and/or voting power of the holders of Common Stock.
Moreover, once authorized in the Certificate of Incorporation by the vote of the
holders of a majority of the
12
<PAGE> 15
Company's issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock, such shares generally
may be issued by the Board of Directors without further authorization from the
Company's stockholders. Shares of Common Stock have no preemptive rights and,
therefore, will not be entitled to preferential rights to purchase any
additional shares of Common Stock that might be issued in the future.
In addition, the proposed amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation
could have an anti-takeover effect because the Board of Directors would have the
ability to issue a significant number of shares of Common Stock as a defense to
an attempted takeover that the Board of Directors considered not to be in the
best interests of the Company and its stockholders. The Board of Directors is
not aware of any current proposals by any party to acquire control of the
Company.
In addition, the Board of Directors is in the process of considering the
adoption of a stockholder rights plan. Such plans are designed to protect
stockholders from unfair or coercive takeover attempts and to prevent a
potential acquiror from gaining control of a company without fairly compensating
all of the company's stockholders. Stockholders should be aware, however, that
rights plans are viewed by certain investors to be detrimental to stockholder
value because they may render more difficult or even discourage attempts to
acquire control of a company, thereby depriving stockholders of the opportunity
to participate in possible premiums that might have been obtained in the absence
of such plans. Rights plans have also been criticized by certain investors as
making the removal of management more difficult. The goal of a rights plan,
however, is to enable the Board of Directors to negotiate in the best interests
of the stockholders.
The Board of Directors has the authority to adopt a rights plan without
obtaining stockholder approval. Stockholder approval is necessary, however, to
increase the number of shares of Common Stock authorized for issuance in order
that the Company may fully implement a rights plan if the Board of Directors
determines to do so.
The Board of Directors believes that this amendment is in the best interest
of the Company and its stockholders.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE COMPANY RECOMMENDS A VOTE "FOR"
THE APPROVAL OF SUCH AMENDMENT.
*****
PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
TO AUTHORIZE THE ISSUANCE OF PREFERRED STOCK
The Thomas Group Board of Directors is submitting to stockholders a
proposal to amend the Certificate of Incorporation to authorize the issuance of
up to 1,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock, $.01 par value per share, upon the
determination of the Board of Directors. The Company's Certificate of
Incorporation does not presently authorize the issuance of Preferred Stock.
The right to issue Preferred Stock, in the judgment of the Board of
Directors, is in the best interest of the Company and its stockholders because
it would provide desirable flexibility in connection with future financings,
acquisitions and other corporate transactions. Having authorized shares of
Preferred Stock available for issuance will also avoid the delay and expense
associated with a special stockholders' meeting. The Company has no current
plans to issue any newly authorized shares of Preferred Stock.
The text of the proposed amendment is set forth on Annex I, which is
attached to and made a part of this Proxy Statement. Any reference to the
proposed amendment is qualified in its entirety by reference to Annex I, which
stockholders are encouraged to review carefully. Upon approval of the amendment
by stockholders, the Board of Directors of the Company will be delegated the
power and authority to issue shares of Preferred Stock from time to time in one
or more series.
Each series of Preferred Stock issued by the Company (i) may have such
number of shares; (ii) may have such voting rights, full, special or limited, or
may be without voting powers, and may confer rights to vote as a class to the
holders thereof, alone or together with other classes or series of stock; (iii)
may be subject to redemption at such time or times and at such price or prices
(which may be payable in the form of cash, notes,
13
<PAGE> 16
securities or other property); (iv) may be entitled to receive dividends,
whether payable in cash, stock of the Company or other property, which may be
cumulative or noncumulative, at such rate or rates, on such conditions, from
such date or dates, and at such times, and payable in preference to, or in such
relation to, the dividends payable on any other class or classes or series of
stock; (v) may have such rights upon the dissolution of, or upon any
distribution of the assets of the Company; (vi) may be convertible into, or
exchangeable for, shares of any other class or classes or of any other series of
the same or any other class or classes of stock, securities or other property of
the Company at such price or prices or at such rates of exchange, and with such
adjustments; and (vii) may have such other relative, participating, optional or
other special rights and qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof;
all as shall be stated in the resolution or resolutions adopted by the Board of
Directors providing for the issue of such series of Preferred Stock.
Upon any liquidation of the Company, no distribution of the Company's
assets may be made to the holders of Common Stock until the holders of all
classes or series of stock having a preference over the Common Stock upon
liquidation have been paid in full the amounts to which they respectively are
entitled.
As noted above, the Board of Directors would have authority to designate
whether dividends on the Preferred Stock shall be cumulative. If so designated,
cash dividends would not be paid on Common Stock until all past dividends have
been set aside or paid on the Preferred Stock. Distributions on the Common Stock
in liquidation could be made only if all Preferred Stock dividends have been
paid in full.
Since no preemptive rights exist with respect to the issuance of additional
shares of capital stock, no further stockholder authorization will be sought for
the issuance of shares of Preferred Stock unless deemed advisable by the Board
of Directors or otherwise required by law.
While the Board of Directors is of the opinion that the proposed amendment
is in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders, the Board of
Directors recognizes that there may be some disadvantages to stockholders.
Holders of Common Stock of the Company may be adversely affected by any issuance
and sale of Preferred Stock, due to possible dilutive effects upon any such
issuance (because of any voting or conversion rights pertaining to shares of
Preferred Stock) and the fact that holders of Preferred Stock would be entitled
to receive any dividends and distributions in liquidation before holders of
Common Stock.
In addition, the proposed amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation
could have an anti-takeover effect because the Board of Directors would have the
ability to issue Preferred Stock as a defense to an attempted takeover that the
Board of Directors considered not to be in the best interests of the Company and
its stockholders. The Board of Directors is not aware of any current proposals
by any party to acquire control of the Company.
In addition, the Board of Directors is in the process of considering the
adoption of a stockholder rights plan. Such plans are designed to protect
stockholders from unfair or coercive takeover attempts and to prevent a
potential acquiror from gaining control of a company without fairly compensating
all of the company's stockholders. Stockholders should be aware, however, that
rights plans are viewed by certain investors to be detrimental to stockholder
value because they may render more difficult or even discourage attempts to
acquire control of a company, thereby depriving stockholders of the opportunity
to participate in possible premiums that might have been obtained in the absence
of such plans. Rights plans have also been criticized by certain investors as
making the removal of management more difficult. The goal of a rights plan,
however, is to enable the Board of Directors to negotiate in the best interests
of the stockholders.
The Board of Directors has the authority to adopt a rights plan without
obtaining stockholder approval. Stockholder approval is necessary, however, to
authorize the issuance of Preferred Stock in order that the Company may fully
implement a rights plan if the Board of Directors determines to do so.
The Board of Directors believes that this amendment is in the best interest
of the Company and its stockholders.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE COMPANY RECOMMENDS A VOTE "FOR"
THE APPROVAL OF SUCH AMENDMENT.
*****
14
<PAGE> 17
SECTION 16(a) REPORTING
Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 requires the Company's
officers, directors and persons who own more than 10% of a registered class of
the Company's equity securities, to file reports of ownership and changes in
ownership with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and to furnish to the
Company copies of such reports. Based solely upon its review of the copies of
such forms received by it, the Company believes that, during the fiscal year
ended December 31, 1997, Company officers, directors and greater than 10%
beneficial owners complied with all such filing requirements.
AUDITORS
The Company has appointed BDO Seidman, LLP as the independent auditors of
the Company for the fiscal year ending December 31, 1998.
Representatives of BDO Seidman, LLP are expected to be present at the
meeting with the opportunity to make a statement if they desire to do so and to
be available to respond to appropriate questions.
STOCKHOLDER PROPOSALS
In order for stockholder proposals to receive consideration for inclusion
in the Company's Proxy Statement for its Annual Meeting of Stockholders to take
place in 1999, such proposals must meet the requirements set forth in the rules
and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, and must be received
at the Company's offices at 5215 N. O'Connor Boulevard, Suite 2500, Irving,
Texas, 75039-3714, Attention: Secretary, by December 9, 1998.
The Company's By-Laws contain a provision which requires that a stockholder
may nominate a person for election as a director only if written notice of such
stockholder's intent to make such nomination has been given to the Secretary of
the Company not later than 30 days prior to an annual meeting. This provision
also requires that the notice set forth, among other things, the name and
address of the stockholder giving the notice, as it appears on the Company's
books and records, and the class and number of shares of capital stock of the
Company owned by such stockholder. Such notice must also contain such other
information regarding the nominee as would be required to be included in a proxy
statement filed pursuant to the proxy rules of the Securities and Exchange
Commission had the nominee been nominated by the Board. Such notice must also be
accompanied by the written consent of the person being nominated to the naming
of that person in the Proxy Statement as a nominee and to serve as a director if
elected. The chairman of the annual meeting shall, if facts warrant, determine
and declare to the annual meeting that a nomination has not been made in
accordance with these procedures and if the chairman should so determine, he or
she shall so declare to the annual meeting and the defective nomination shall be
disregarded. No stockholder has nominated a candidate for election to the Board
of Directors at the Annual Meeting.
SOLICITATION OF PROXIES
The Company will pay the expenses of this proxy solicitation. In addition
to the solicitation by mail, some of the officers and regular employees of the
Company may solicit proxies personally or by telephone, if deemed necessary. The
Company will request brokers and other fiduciaries to forward proxy soliciting
material to the beneficial owners of shares which are held of record by the
brokers and fiduciaries, and the Company may reimburse them for reasonable
out-of-pocket expenses incurred by them in connection therewith.
OTHER MATTERS
The Annual Report to Stockholders for the fiscal year ended December 31,
1997, which includes financial statements, is enclosed herewith. The Annual
Report does not form a part of this Proxy Statement or the materials for the
solicitation of proxies to be voted at the annual meeting.
15
<PAGE> 18
A COPY OF THE COMPANY'S ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K WILL BE FURNISHED AT NO
CHARGE TO EACH PERSON TO WHOM A PROXY STATEMENT IS DELIVERED UPON RECEIPT OF A
WRITTEN REQUEST OF SUCH PERSON ADDRESSED TO THOMAS GROUP, INC., 5215 N. O'CONNOR
BOULEVARD, SUITE 2500, IRVING, TEXAS 75039-3714, TELEPHONE (972) 869-3400. THE
COMPANY WILL ALSO FURNISH SUCH ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K TO ANY "BENEFICIAL
OWNER" OF SUCH SECURITIES AT NO CHARGE UPON RECEIPT OF A WRITTEN REQUEST,
ADDRESSED TO THE COMPANY, CONTAINING A GOOD FAITH REPRESENTATION THAT, AT THE
RECORD DATE, SUCH PERSON WAS A BENEFICIAL OWNER OF SECURITIES OF THE COMPANY
ENTITLED TO VOTE AT THE ANNUAL MEETING. COPIES OF ANY EXHIBIT TO THE FORM 10-K
WILL BE FURNISHED UPON THE PAYMENT OF A REASONABLE FEE.
The Board of Directors is not aware of any matter, other than the matters
described above, to be presented for action at the Annual Meeting. However, if
any other proper items of business should come before the Annual Meeting, it is
the intention of the person or persons acting under the enclosed form of proxy
to vote in accordance with their best judgment on such matters.
Information contained in the Proxy Statement relating to the occupations
and security holdings of directors and officers of the Company is based upon
information received from the individual directors and officers.
PLEASE MARK, SIGN, DATE AND RETURN THE PROXY CARD AT YOUR EARLIEST
CONVENIENCE IN THE ENCLOSED RETURN ENVELOPE. NO POSTAGE IS REQUIRED IF MAILED IN
THE UNITED STATES. A PROMPT RETURN OF YOUR PROXY CARD WILL BE APPRECIATED AS IT
WILL SAVE THE EXPENSE OF FURTHER MAILINGS.
By Order of the Board of Directors,
/s/ J. THOMAS WILLIAMS
J. THOMAS WILLIAMS
President and Chief Operating
Officer
Irving, Texas
June 11, 1998
16
<PAGE> 19
ANNEX I
AMENDMENT TO THE
CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
OF
THOMAS GROUP, INC.
Following is the full text of Article Fourth, as proposed for amendment:
Fourth: The total number of shares of stock which the Corporation shall
have authority to issue is 27,200,000, consisting of:
(i) 25,000,000 shares of Common Stock, par value $.01 per share
("Common Stock"); and
(ii) 1,200,000 shares of Class B Common Stock, par value $.01 per
share ("Class B Stock"); and
(iii) 1,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock, par value $.01 per share
"Preferred Stock").
A. Provisions Relating to the Preferred Stock
1. The Preferred Stock may be issued from time to time in one or more
series, the shares of each series to have such designations and powers,
preferences, rights, qualifications, limitations, and restrictions thereof
as are stated and expressed herein and in the resolution or resolutions
providing for the issue of such series adopted by the Board of Directors of
the Corporation as hereafter prescribed.
2. Authority is hereby expressly granted to and vested in the Board of
Directors of the Corporation to authorize the issuance of the Preferred
Stock from time to time in one or more series, and with respect to each
series of the Preferred Stock, to fix and state by the resolution or
resolutions from time to time adopted providing for the issuance thereof
the following:
(i) whether or not shares of a series shall have voting rights,
full, special, or limited, or shall be without voting rights, and
whether or not the holders of such shares are to be entitled to vote as
a separate class either alone or together with the holders of one or
more other classes or series of stock;
(ii) the number of shares to constitute the series and the
designations thereof;
(iii) the preferences, and relative, participating, optional, or
other special rights, if any, and the qualifications, limitations, or
restrictions thereof, if any, with respect to any series;
(iv) whether or not the shares of any series shall be redeemable at
the option of the Corporation or the holders thereof or upon the
happening of any specified event, and, if redeemable, the redemption
price or prices (which may be payable in the form of cash, notes,
securities, or other property), and the time or times at which, and the
terms and conditions upon which, such shares shall be redeemable and the
manner of redemption;
(v) whether or not the shares of a series shall be subject to the
operation of retirement or sinking funds to be applied to the purchase
or redemption of such shares for retirement, and, if such retirement or
sinking fund or funds are to be established, the annual amount thereof,
and the terms and provisions relative to the operation thereof;
(vi) the dividend rate, whether dividends are payable in cash,
stock of the Corporation, or other property, the conditions upon which
and the times when such dividends are payable, the preference or the
relation to the payment of dividends payable on any other class or
classes or series of stock, whether or not such dividends shall be
cumulative or noncumulative, and if cumulative, the date or dates from
which such dividends shall accumulate;
(vii) the preferences, if any, and the amounts thereof which the
holders of shares of any series shall be entitled to receive upon the
voluntary or involuntary dissolution of, or upon any distribution of the
assets of, the Corporation;
17
<PAGE> 20
(viii) whether or not the shares of any series shall be entitled to
the benefit of conditions and restrictions upon the creation of
indebtedness of the Corporation or any subsidiary of the Corporation,
upon the issue of any additional stock (including, without limitation,
additional shares of such series or of any other class or series) and
upon the payment of dividends or the making of other distributions on,
and the purchase, redemption or other acquisition by the Corporation or
any subsidiary of the Corporation of, any outstanding stock of the
Corporation;
(ix) whether or not the shares of any series, at the option of the
Corporation or the holders thereof or upon the happening of any
specified event, shall be convertible into or exchangeable for the
shares of any other class or classes or of any other series of the same
or any other class or classes of stock, securities, or other property of
the Corporation and the conversion price, ratio or rate at which such
exchange may be made, with such adjustments, if any, as shall be
provided for in such resolutions; and
(x) such other special rights and protective provisions with
respect to any series as the Board of Directors of the Corporation may
deem advisable.
3. The shares of each series of the Preferred Stock may vary from the
shares of any other class or series in any or all of the foregoing
respects. The Board of Directors of the Corporation may increase the number
of shares of the Preferred Stock designated for any existing series (but
not above the total number of authorized shares of the class) by a
resolution adding to such series authorized and unissued shares of the
Preferred Stock not designated for any other series. The Board of Directors
of the Corporation may decrease the number of shares of the Preferred Stock
designated for any existing series (but not below the number of shares
thereof then outstanding) by a resolution subtracting from such series
unissued shares of the Preferred Stock designated for such series, and the
shares so subtracted shall become authorized, unissued, and undesignated
shares of the Preferred Stock.
B. Provisions Relating to the Common Stock and Class B Stock
1. Except as otherwise required by law, and subject to any special
voting rights which may be conferred upon any class or series of stock of
the Corporation, each holder of Common Stock shall be entitled to one vote
for each share of the Common Stock standing in such holder's name on the
records of the Corporation on each matter submitted to a vote of the
stockholders. Except as required by law, the holders of the Class B Stock
shall have no voting rights whatsoever.
2. Subject to the rights of the holders of any class or series of
stock of the Corporation, the holders of the Common Stock shall be entitled
to receive when, as, and if declared by the Board of Directors of the
Corporation, out of funds legally available therefor, dividends payable in
cash, stock, or otherwise.
3. Upon any liquidation, dissolution, or winding up of the
Corporation, whether voluntary or involuntary, and after the holders of any
class or series of stock of the Corporation having a preference over the
Common Stock and Class B Stock with respect to distributions of assets upon
any such liquidation, distribution or winding up, and any bonds,
debentures, or other obligations of the Corporation shall have been paid in
full the amounts to which they shall be entitled (if any), or a sum
sufficient for such payment in full shall have been set aside, the
remaining net assets of the Corporation shall be distributed pro rata to
the holders of the Common Stock and Class B Stock, to the exclusion of the
holders of shares of any other class or series of stock and any bonds,
debentures, or other obligations of the Corporation.
18
<PAGE> 21
THOMAS GROUP, INC.
PLEASE MARK VOTE IN OVAL IN THE FOLLOWING MANNER USING DARK INK ONLY.
FOR WITHHELD FOR ALL
ALL ALL EXCEPT
1. Election of Directors [ ] [ ] [ ]
(see reverse)
-----------------------
Nominee Exception
In his discretion, the proxy is authorized to vote upon such other business
as may properly come before the Annual Meeting. This Proxy will be voted at
the Annual Meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof as specified.
If no specifications are made, this Proxy will be voted FOR the election of
directors and FOR the proposals set forth above. This Proxy hereby revokes
all prior proxies given with respect to the shares of the undersigned.
2. Proposal to the amend the Company's Amended and Restated Certificate of
Incorporation ("Certificate of Incorporation") increasing the number of its
authorized shares of Common Stock from 12,500,000 to 25,000,000.
FOR AGAINST ABSTAIN
[ ] [ ] [ ]
3. Proposal to amend the Certificate of Incorporation to authorize the issuance
of up to 1,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock, par value $.01 per share, upon
the determination of the Board of Directors.
FOR AGAINST ABSTAIN
[ ] [ ] [ ]
Change of Address [ ]
SIGNATURE(S) DATE
------------------ -----
SIGNATURE(S) DATE
------------------ -----
NOTE: Please sign exactly as name appears hereon. Joint owners should each
sign. When signing as attorney, executor, administrator, trustee or
guardian, please give full title as such.
<PAGE> 22
PROXY
THOMAS GROUP, INC.
THIS PROXY IS SOLICITED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The undersigned hereby appoint(s) J. Thomas Williams with full power of
substitution, proxies of the undersigned, with all the powers that the
undersigned would possess if personally present to cast all votes that the
undersigned would be entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of
Thomas Group, Inc. (the "Company") to be held on Thursday, July 9, 1998, at the
principal executive offices of the Company, 5215 N. O'Connor Boulevard, Suite
2500, Irving, Texas at 9:00 A.M., Dallas time, and any and all adjournments or
postponements thereof (the "Annual Meeting"), including (without limiting the
generality of the foregoing) to vote and act as follows:
YOUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE FOR THE DIRECTORS SET FORTH BELOW
AND FOR THE PROPOSALS SET FORTH ON THE REVERSE SIDE.
Election of Directors, Nominees:
(Change of Address)
JOHN T. CHAIN, JR. RICHARD A. FREYTAG ------------------------------
J. THOMAS WILLIAMS DAVID B. MATHIS ------------------------------
------------------------------
(If you have written in the
above space, please mark the
corresponding box on the
reverse side of this card.)
Please complete, date, sign and mail this Proxy promptly
in the enclosed envelope.
No postage is required for mailing in the United States.
------------
SEE REVERSE
SIDE
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