UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
SCHEDULE 14A
(Rule 14a-101)
INFORMATION REQUIRED IN PROXY STATEMENT
SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION
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Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc.
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[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
Marsh o Putnam o Mercer
Marsh & McLennan Companies
2005
Notice of Annual Meeting
And Proxy Statement
[MARSH & MCLENNAN COMPANIES, INC. LETTERHEAD]
Dear MMC Stockholder:
You are cordially invited to attend our annual stockholders meeting. The
meeting will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 19, 2005 in the
auditorium on the second floor at 1221 Avenue of the Americas, New York,
New York.
In addition to the matters described in the attached proxy statement, we
will report on our Company's activities during 2004. You will have an
opportunity to ask questions and to meet your directors and executives.
Whether you plan to come to the annual meeting or not, your
representation and vote are important, and your shares should be voted.
If you have received this proxy statement by regular mail, you may vote
by signing, dating and returning the enclosed proxy card or via telephone
or over the Internet by following the instructions on your proxy card. If
you have received this proxy statement by electronic mail, you may vote
by telephone or over the Internet by following the instructions in the
e-mail message.
We look forward to seeing you at the meeting. Your vote is important to
us.
Very truly yours,
/s/ Michael G. Cherkasky
-----------------------------------
Michael G. Cherkasky
President & Chief Executive Officer
March 31, 2005
MARSH & McLENNAN COMPANIES, INC.
1166 Avenue of the Americas
New York, New York 10036-2774
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
AND
PROXY STATEMENT
Time:
10:00 a.m. Local Time
Date:
May 19, 2005
Place:
Second Floor Auditorium
1221 Avenue of the Americas
New York, New York
Purpose:
1. To elect five persons to serve as Class I directors, each for a
three-year term;
2. To ratify the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as our
independent registered public accounting firm;
3. To vote on amendments to our employee and senior executive
incentive and stock award plans;
4. To vote on three proposals submitted by stockholders; and
5. To conduct any other business that may properly come before the
meeting.
This notice and proxy statement describes the matters being voted on and
contains certain other information. In this material, we refer to Marsh &
McLennan Companies, Inc. as "MMC", the "Company", "we" or "us".
Only stockholders of record on March 21, 2005 may vote at the annual
meeting. You will need proof of ownership of MMC stock to enter the meeting.
This proxy solicitation material is being mailed to stockholders on or about
March 31, 2005 with a copy of MMC's 2004 Annual Report, which includes financial
statements for the period ended December 31, 2004.
Your vote is important. If you received this proxy statement by regular
mail, you may cast your vote by mail, telephone or over the Internet by
following the instructions on your proxy card. If you received this proxy
statement in an e-mail message, you may cast your vote by telephone or over the
Internet by following the instructions in the e-mail message.
/s/Peter J. Beshar
-------------------
Peter J. Beshar
Corporate Secretary
March 31, 2005
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Information about our Annual Meeting and Solicitation of Proxies............................................ 3
Item 1: Election of Directors............................................................................... 5
Nominees for Election as Directors for a Three-Year Term Expiring in 2008.......................... 5
Directors Continuing in Office--Term Expiring in 2006.............................................. 7
Directors Continuing in Office--Term Expiring in 2007.............................................. 7
Information Regarding the Board of Directors.................................................................9
Corporate Governance Guidelines.....................................................................9
Committees.........................................................................................10
Policy on Stockholder Nominations of Directors.....................................................11
Attendance.........................................................................................12
Codes of Business Conduct and Ethics...............................................................12
Communications with the Board......................................................................12
Tenure.............................................................................................12
Directors' Compensation............................................................................12
Stock Ownership of Management and Certain Beneficial Owners.................................................13
Compensation of Executive Officers..........................................................................15
Summary Compensation Table.........................................................................15
Option Grants in 2004..............................................................................18
Aggregated Option Exercises in 2004 & Year-End Option Values.......................................19
United States Retirement Program...................................................................20
Employment Agreements..............................................................................21
Compensation Committee Report......................................................................22
Stock Performance Graph............................................................................26
Transactions with Management and Others; Other Information..................................................27
Item 2: Ratification of Selection of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm..........................28
Fees of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm..............................................28
Audit Committee Report......................................................................................29
Item 3: Proposal to Approve the Amendment of MMC's Equity Compensation Plans
to Permit an Exchange of Certain Options....................................................................31
Item 4: Stockholder Proposal: CEO Compensation..............................................................35
Item 5: Stockholder Proposal: Stock Option Policy...........................................................37
Item 6: Stockholder Proposal: Director Election Voting Standard.............................................39
Submission of Future Stockholder Proposals..................................................................41
Appendix A--Audit Committee Charter........................................................................A-1
Appendix B--Equity Compensation Plan Information Table.....................................................B-1
2
INFORMATION ABOUT OUR ANNUAL MEETING AND SOLICITATION OF PROXIES
Who May Vote
Holders of our common stock, as recorded in our stock register on March 21,
2005, may vote at the meeting. As of that date, there were 524,262,100 shares of
common stock outstanding and entitled to one vote per share. A list of
stockholders will be available for inspection at the principal executive offices
of MMC at 1166 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York for at least ten days
prior to the meeting.
How To Vote
You may vote in person at the meeting or by proxy. We recommend you vote by
proxy even if you plan to attend the meeting. You can always change your vote at
the meeting.
Most stockholders have a choice of proxy voting by using a toll free
telephone number, voting through the Internet or, if they received their proxy
materials by regular mail, completing the proxy card and mailing it in the
postage-paid envelope provided. If you received your materials by regular mail,
please refer to your proxy card or the information forwarded by your bank,
broker or other holder of record to see which options are available to you.
Executors, administrators, trustees, guardians, attorneys and other
representatives voting on behalf of a stockholder should indicate the capacity
in which they are signing and corporations should vote by an authorized officer
whose title should be indicated.
How Proxies Work
MMC's board of directors is asking for your proxy. Giving us your proxy
means you authorize us to vote your shares at the meeting, or at any adjournment
thereof, in the manner you direct. You may vote for all, some, or none of our
director nominees. You may also vote for or against the other proposals or
abstain from voting.
If you sign and return a proxy card or otherwise vote by telephone or
Internet but do not specify how to vote, we will vote your shares in favor of
our director nominees, in favor of Items 2 and 3 and against Items 4, 5 and 6.
As of the date of this proxy statement, we do not know of any other
business that will be presented at the meeting. If other business shall properly
come before the meeting, including any proposal submitted by a stockholder that
was omitted from this proxy statement in accordance with applicable federal
securities laws, the persons named in the proxy will vote according to their
best judgment.
Revoking a Proxy
You may revoke your proxy before it is voted by submitting a new proxy with
a later date, by voting in person at the meeting, or by sending written
notification addressed to:
Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc.
1166 Avenue of the Americas
New York, New York 10036-2774
Attn: Mr. William J. White,
Assistant Corporate Secretary
Mere attendance at the meeting will not revoke a proxy that was previously
submitted to MMC.
Quorum and Conduct of Meeting
In order to carry on the business of the meeting, we must have a quorum.
This means at least a majority of the outstanding shares eligible to vote must
be represented at the meeting, either by proxy or in person.
The chairman of the annual meeting has broad authority to conduct the
annual meeting so that the business of the meeting is carried out in an orderly
and timely manner. In doing so, the chairman has broad discretion to establish
reasonable rules for discussion, comments and questions during the meeting. The
chairman also is entitled to rely upon applicable law regarding disruptions or
disorderly conduct to ensure that the meeting is conducted in a manner that is
fair to all participants.
Attendance at the Meeting
Only stockholders, their proxy holders, and MMC's guests may attend the
meeting. Admission to the meeting will be on a first-come, first-served basis.
Verification of ownership may be requested at the admissions desk. If your
shares are held in the name of your broker, bank, or other nominee, you must
bring to the meeting an account statement or letter from the nominee indicating
that you are the beneficial owner of the shares on March 21, 2005, the record
date for voting.
3
Votes Needed
Directors are elected by a plurality of the votes cast. "Plurality" means
that the individuals who receive the largest number of votes cast FOR are
elected as directors up to the maximum number of directors to be chosen at the
meeting. Votes withheld from any director nominee will not be counted in such
nominee's favor.
All other matters to be acted on at the meeting require the affirmative
vote of a majority of the shares of MMC stock present or represented and
entitled to vote at the meeting to constitute the action of the stockholders. In
accordance with Delaware law, abstentions will be treated as present and
entitled to vote for purposes of the preceding sentence, while broker nonvotes
will not.
A "broker nonvote" is a proxy submitted by a broker in which the broker
fails to vote on behalf of a client on a particular matter for lack of
instruction when such instruction is required by the rules of the New York Stock
Exchange. Broker nonvotes will be counted for purposes of determining the
presence of a quorum for the transaction of business.
Electronic Access to Proxy Materials and
Annual Report
This proxy statement and the 2004 Annual Report can be viewed on our
website at http://www.mmc.com/annualreport.html. Most stockholders may elect to
view future proxy statements and annual reports over the Internet instead of
receiving paper copies in the mail.
If you are a stockholder of record, you may choose this option and save MMC
the cost of producing and mailing these documents by following the instructions
provided when you vote over the Internet. If you hold your MMC stock through a
bank, broker or other holder of record, please refer to the information provided
by that entity for instructions on how to elect to view our future proxy
statements and annual reports over the Internet. Active employees of MMC who
hold MMC stock in employee stock plan accounts or are stockholders of record
will, beginning this year, receive their proxy materials by electronic delivery
to their business e-mail accounts.
If you are an active employee or if you choose to view our future proxy
statements and annual reports over the Internet, you will receive an e-mail
message with instructions on how to access MMC's proxy statement and annual
report and vote. If you chose to view future proxy materials over the Internet,
your choice will remain in effect until you tell us otherwise. To view, cancel
or change your enrollment profile, please go to www.investordelivery.com.
Solicitation of Proxies
We pay the expenses of preparing the proxy materials and soliciting this
proxy. We also reimburse brokers and other nominees for their expenses in
sending these materials to you and obtaining your voting instructions.
In addition to this mailing, proxies may be solicited personally,
electronically or by telephone by our directors, officers, other employees or
our agents. We have retained Georgeson Shareholder Communications Inc. as our
agent to assist in the proxy solicitation at a fee of approximately $11,000,
plus expenses. If any of our directors, officers and other employees assist in
soliciting proxies, they will not receive additional compensation for those
services.
Multiple Stockholders Sharing Same Address
If you and other residents at your mailing address with the same last name
own shares of common stock through a bank, broker or other holder of record,
your bank or broker may have sent you a notice that your household will receive
only one annual report and proxy statement for each company in which the members
of your household hold stock through that bank or broker. This practice of
sending only one copy of proxy materials to holders residing at a single address
is known as "householding", and is designed to reduce printing and postage
costs.
If you did not respond that you did not want to participate in
householding, you were deemed to have consented to the process. If you did not
receive a householding notice from your bank, broker or other holder of record,
you can request householding by contacting that entity. You may revoke your
consent to householding at any time by calling 1-800-542-1061.
If you wish to receive a separate paper copy of the annual report or proxy
statement, you may telephone Corporate Development at (212) 345-5475 or write
to:
Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc.
1166 Avenue of the Americas
New York, New York 10036-2774
Attn: Corporate Development
4
ITEM 1
ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
Our board of directors is divided into three classes. Members of each class
serve for a three-year term. Stockholders elect one class of directors at each
annual meeting. At this annual meeting, stockholders will vote on the election
of the five nominees described below for a term ending at the 2008 Annual
Meeting.
The following section contains information provided by the nominees and
continuing directors about their principal occupation, business experience and
other matters. As part of MMC's efforts to pursue corporate governance best
practices, management directors Peter Coster, Charles A. Davis, Mathis
Cabiallavetta, Ray J. Groves and A.J.C. Smith resigned from the board in
November 2004. Mr. Jeffrey W. Greenberg resigned from the board in October 2004.
All five of the nominees are current directors of MMC.
Each nominee has indicated to MMC that he or she will serve if elected. We
do not anticipate that any nominee will be unable or unwilling to stand for
election, but if that happens, your proxy may be voted for another person
nominated by the board.
The board of directors recommends a vote FOR the election of all five
nominees.
Nominees for Election as Directors
For a Three-Year Term Expiring in 2008
[PHOTO OMITTED] Michael G. Cherkasky Director since 2004
Mr. Cherkasky, age 55, is president and chief executive
officer of MMC. He is also chairman and chief executive
officer of Marsh Inc., MMC's risk and insurance services
subsidiary. Prior to being named to his current positions
in October 2004, Mr. Cherkasky was president and chief
executive officer of Kroll Inc., the global risk consulting
company acquired by MMC in July 2004. Since then, he had
also been responsible for Marsh's Risk Consulting Practice.
Mr. Cherkasky joined Kroll in 1994, rising to the position
of president and chief executive officer in 2001. Prior to
joining Kroll, Mr. Cherkasky spent 16 years in the criminal
justice system, including serving as chief of the
Investigations Division for the New York County District
Attorney's Office.
[PHOTO OMITTED] Stephen R. Hardis Director since 1998
Executive Committee
Audit Committee (chair)
Mr. Hardis, age 69, was chairman of Eaton Corporation from
1996 until his retirement in 2000. Mr. Hardis joined Eaton
in 1979, and was its chief executive officer from 1995 to
2000. He is chairman of Axcelis Technologies, Inc. and a
director of American Greetings Corporation, Lexmark
International Corporation, Nordson Corporation, Progressive
Corporation and Steris Corporation.
5
[PHOTO OMITTED] The Rt. Hon. Lord Lang of Monkton, DL Director since 1997
Executive Committee
Compensation Committee
Directors & Governance Committee
Lord Lang, age 64, was a member of the British Parliament
from 1979 to 1997. He served in the cabinet as president of
the Board of Trade and secretary of state for trade and
industry from 1995 to 1997 and as secretary of state for
Scotland from 1990 to 1995. Lord Lang is chairman of BFS US
Special Opportunities Trust plc and Thistle Mining Inc. He
is also non-executive chairman of the Patrons of the
National Galleries of Scotland and a governor of Rugby
School, England. Thistle Mining Inc., a Canadian
corporation, is currently undergoing a financial
reorganization pursuant to the Canadian Companies'
Creditors Arrangement Act.
[PHOTO OMITTED] Morton O. Schapiro Director since 2002
Compensation Committee
Directors & Governance Committee
Mr. Schapiro, age 51, is president of Williams College.
Prior to joining Williams College, he was dean of the
College of Letters, Arts and Sciences of the University of
Southern California from 1994 to 2000, the University's
vice president for planning from 1999 to 2000 and chair of
its Department of Economics from 1991 to 1994. Mr. Schapiro
is a trustee of the Williamstown Theatre Festival, the
Sterling & Francine Clark Art Institute, the College Board,
the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art and Hillel.
[PHOTO OMITTED] Adele Simmons Director since 1978
Executive Committee
Audit Committee
Mrs. Simmons, age 63, is vice chair of Chicago Metropolis
2020 and president of the Global Philanthropy Partnership.
From 1989 to 1999, she was president of the John D. and
Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation. Ms. Simmons is a
director of the Shorebank Corporation. She is also a
trustee of the Field Museum of Chicago and chair of the
board of the Fair Labor Association.
6
Directors Continuing in Office
(Term Expiring in 2006)
[PHOTO OMITTED] Gwendolyn S. King Director since 1998
Audit Committee
Directors & Governance Committee
Ms. King, age 64, is president of Podium Prose, a speaker's
bureau. From 1992 until 1998 she was senior vice president,
corporate and public affairs at Peco Energy. From 1989 to
1992 she served as commissioner of the Social Security
Administration in the U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services. Ms. King is a director of Lockheed Martin
Corporation, Monsanto Company and the not-for-profit
National Association of Corporate Directors.
[PHOTO OMITTED] David A. Olsen Director since 1997
Audit Committee
Mr. Olsen, age 67, was chairman of Johnson & Higgins from
1991 until its business combination with MMC in 1997. He
served as vice chairman of MMC from May through December of
1997. He joined Johnson & Higgins in 1966, and was its
chief executive officer from 1990 to 1997. Mr. Olsen is a
director of U.S. Trust Corporation. He is trustee emeritus
of Bowdoin College, a trustee of Landmark Volunteers, a
director of Salisbury Visiting Nurses Association and an
honorary director of New York's South Street Seaport
Museum.
Directors Continuing in Office
(Term Expiring in 2007)
[PHOTO OMITTED] Lewis W. Bernard Director since 1992
Executive Committee
Compensation Committee (chair)
Mr. Bernard, age 63, was chief of finance, administration
and operations of Morgan Stanley & Co., Inc. from 1985
until his retirement in 1991. Mr. Bernard joined Morgan
Stanley in 1963. Mr. Bernard is chairman of Classroom,
Inc., a non-profit educational corporation. He is also
chairman of the board of the American Museum of Natural
History and a trustee of The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.
7
[PHOTO OMITTED] Zachary W. Carter Director since 2004
Audit Committee
Mr. Carter, age 55, is a partner at the law firm of Dorsey
& Whitney LLP, where he is co-chair of the White Collar
Crime and Civil Fraud practice group. He joined Dorsey &
Whitney in 1999. Mr. Carter was the United States Attorney
for the Eastern District of New York from 1993 to 1999. Mr.
Carter is chairman of the Mayor's Advisory Committee on the
Judiciary, chairman of the board of directors of Hale House
Center, Inc. and a trustee of the New York University
School of Law and the Vera Institute of Justice.
[PHOTO OMITTED] Robert F. Erburu Director since 1996
Compensation Committee
Directors & Governance Committee (chair)
Mr. Erburu, age 74, is non-executive chairman of MMC's
board of directors. Mr. Erburu was chairman of The Times
Mirror Company from 1986 until his retirement in 1996. Mr.
Erburu joined Times Mirror in 1961 and was its chief
executive officer from 1981 to 1995. Mr. Erburu is chairman
of the board of trustees of the National Gallery of Art and
chairman of the Board of Councilors of the College of
Letters, Arts and Science of the University of Southern
California. He is a director of the Pacific Council on
International Policy, the Ahmanson Foundation and the
William and Flora Hewlett Foundation.
[PHOTO OMITTED] Oscar Fanjul Director since 2001
Audit Committee
Compensation Committee
Mr. Fanjul, age 55, is vice chairman and chief executive
officer of Omega Capital, a private investment firm in
Spain. Mr. Fanjul is honorary chairman of Repsol YPF, where
he was chairman and chief executive officer from its
inception in 1986 until 1996. He was chairman of
Hidroelectrica del Cantabrico from 1999 to 2001 and
chairman of NH Hoteles from 1997 until 1999. Mr. Fanjul is
a director of Acerinox, the London Stock Exchange, Unilever
and a member of MMC's international advisory board. He is a
trustee of the International Accounting Standards Committee
Foundation and the Amigos del Museo del Prado.
8
Information Regarding the Board of Directors
MMC is a global professional services company. Our business is conducted by
our business units, and their employees and officers, under the direction of the
chief executive officer and the oversight of the board. The board of directors,
which is elected by the stockholders, is the ultimate decision-making body of
MMC except with respect to those matters reserved to the stockholders. The board
held 18 meetings during 2004. On March 17, 2005, the board of directors named
Robert F. Erburu non-executive chairman of the board.
Corporate Governance Guidelines
Our board of directors has adopted the MMC Guidelines for Corporate
Governance. These guidelines are posted on the MMC website at
http://www.mmc.com/corpgov.html and a print copy is available to any stockholder
upon request.
With respect to our directors:
o a meaningful portion of the compensation for independent directors is
paid in MMC stock;
o all new directors participate in an orientation. This orientation includes
background material and presentations by management on MMC's operations and
strategic plans, its financial statements and its key policies and
practices;
o in addition to access to MMC officers, the board and its committees have
the authority to obtain advice and assistance from external advisors or
consultants as they may deem necessary; and
o the independent directors meet at regularly scheduled executive sessions
without management, at which meetings MMC's non-executive chairman, Robert
F. Erburu, presides.
Director Independence
It is the policy of MMC that a substantial majority of the members of its
board of directors be independent of MMC's management. For a director to be
deemed "independent," the board must affirmatively determine that the director
has no direct or indirect material relationship with MMC. To assist the board in
determining director independence the board has adopted categorical standards,
which include the standards established by the New York Stock Exchange, as
amended from time to time. Under these standards, a director will not be deemed
"independent" if:
(a) within the preceding three years, the director was employed by MMC or a
member of his or her immediate family was employed by MMC as an
executive officer;
(b) within the preceding three years, the director, or a member of his or
her immediate family, received more than $100,000 during any 12 month
period in direct compensation from MMC (other than director and
committee fees and pension or certain other forms of deferred
compensation);
(c) (i) the director or an immediate family member is a current partner of
a firm that is MMC's internal or external auditor; (ii) the director is
a current employee of such a firm; (iii) the director has an immediate
family member who is a current employee of such a firm and who
participates in the firm's audit, assurance or tax compliance (but not
tax planning) practice; or (iv) the director or an immediate family
member was within the last three years (but is no longer) a partner or
employee of such a firm and personally worked on MMC's audit within
that time;
(d) within the preceding three years, a current MMC executive officer was
on the compensation committee of a company which concurrently employed
the director as an executive officer, or which employed an immediate
family member of the director as an executive officer;
(e) the director is a current executive officer or employee, or the
director's immediate family member is a current executive officer, of a
company that made payments to, or received payments from, MMC for
property or services in an amount which, in any of the last three
fiscal years, exceeded the greater of $1 million or 2% of such
company's consolidated gross revenues; or
(f) the director serves as an executive officer, director or trustee of a
charitable organiza-
9
tion to which MMC's charitable contributions (other than matching
contributions) in single fiscal year during the preceding three years
exceeded the greater of $1 million or 2% of such organization's
consolidated gross revenues in a particular fiscal year.
With respect to items (a) through (f) above, the term "MMC" includes any
subsidiaries within MMC's consolidated reporting group. The term "immediate
family" includes a person's spouse, parents, children, siblings, mothers and
fathers-in-law, sons and daughters-in-law, brothers and sisters-in-law, and
anyone (other than domestic employees) who shares such person's home.
In addition, the board has considered and determined that the following
commercial relationships do not impair a director's independence:
o a director's ownership interest in MMC stock, Putnam mutual funds or the
private equity funds managed by MMC Capital;
o a director's use of any of the services provided by MMC's subsidiaries in
the ordinary course of the subsidiaries' business (e.g., personal insurance
placements and any other services); and
o a director's service as a member of the board of other public and private
companies.
In accordance with these guidelines, the board has determined that the
following directors are independent: Mr. Bernard; Mr. Carter; Mr. Erburu; Mr.
Fanjul; Mr. Hardis; Ms. King; Lord Lang; Mr. Olsen; Mr. Schapiro and Ms.
Simmons.
Committees
Our board has established an Executive Committee, an Audit Committee, a
Compensation Committee and a Directors & Governance Committee to assist the
board in discharging its responsibilities. Following each committee meeting the
respective committee chair generally reports the highlights of the meeting to
the full board.
Membership on each of the Audit, Compensation, and Directors & Governance
Committees is limited to independent directors. The charters for these
committees can be viewed on our website at http://www.mmc.com/corpgov.html.
Print copies are available to any stockholder upon request. In addition, MMC's
Audit Committee charter is attached to this proxy statement as Appendix A.
The Executive Committee:
o is empowered to act for the full board in intervals between board meetings,
with the exception of certain matters that under Delaware law or MMC's
by-laws may not be delegated; and
o meets as necessary, with all actions taken by the committee reported at the
next board meeting.
The current members of the Executive Committee are Messrs. Bernard, Hardis,
Lord Lang and Ms. Simmons. The committee held one meeting during 2004.
The Audit Committee:
The Audit Committee is charged with assisting the board in fulfilling its
oversight responsibilities with respect to:
o the integrity of MMC's financial statements;
o the qualifications, independence and performance of MMC's independent
auditors;
o the performance of MMC's internal audit function; and
o compliance by MMC with legal and regulatory requirements.
The Audit Committee selects and oversees MMC's independent auditors, and
pre-approves all services to be performed by the independent auditors pursuant
to the Audit Committee pre-approval policy. The current members of the Audit
Committee are Messrs. Carter, Fanjul, Hardis (Chair), Olsen, Ms. King and Ms.
Simmons. All members of the Audit Committee are independent as required by MMC
and the listing standards of the New York Stock Exchange.
All members of the Audit Committee are financially literate, as determined
by the board of directors. The board of directors has determined that Stephen R.
Hardis, an independent director and the chair of the Audit Committee, has the
requisite qualifications to satisfy the SEC definition of "audit committee
financial expert".
10
The Audit Committee held ten meetings during 2004.
The Compensation Committee:
o among other things, evaluates the performance and determines the
compensation of MMC's chief executive officer;
o reviews and approves the compensation of other senior executives; and
o makes recommendations to the board with respect to MMC's incentive
compensation plans and equity-based plans and discharges the respon-
sibilities of the committee set forth in these plans.
The current members of the Compensation Committee are Messrs. Bernard
(Chair), Erburu, Fanjul, Schapiro and Lord Lang. All members of the Compensation
Committee are independent as required by MMC and the listing standards of the
New York Stock Exchange. The Compensation Committee held ten meetings during
2004.
The Directors & Governance Committee:
o among other things, develops, reviews and periodically reassesses MMC's
corporate governance principles and recommends proposed changes to the
board;
o identifies, considers and recommends qualified candidates to the board for
election as directors, including the slate of directors that the board
proposes for election at the annual meeting;
o in consultation with the board committee chairs, recommends committee
assignments to the board; and
o develops processes for and oversees annual assessments of the board's
performance and effectiveness.
The current members of the Directors & Governance Committee are Mr. Erburu
(Chair), Lord Lang, Ms. King and Mr. Schapiro. All members of the committee are
independent as required by MMC and the listing standards of the New York Stock
Exchange. The Directors & Governance Committee held three meetings in 2004.
Policy on Stockholder Nominations of Directors
The Directors & Governance Committee, as a policy, gives equal
consideration to all director nominees whether recommended by our stockholders,
management or current directors.
The Directors and Governance Committee has determined that, at this time,
10-14 directors is the appropriate size for the board and that this range is
flexible enough to accommodate the availability of any outstanding candidate.
The quality of the individuals serving is more important than the precise number
of members, and these considerations could lead to a board of directors outside
this range from time to time. All directors represent the interests of all
stockholders, not just the interests of any particular stockholder, stockholder
group or other constituency. Candidates for the board of directors must be
experienced, dedicated, and meet the highest standards of ethics and integrity.
The Directors & Governance Committee periodically reviews with the board the
requisite skills and characteristics for new directors as well as the
composition of the board as a whole, taking into account, among other things,
the mix and diversity of skills, backgrounds and experience. A substantial
majority of our directors must satisfy the independence requirements of both MMC
and the New York Stock Exchange. Each member of the Audit Committee must be
financially literate and at least one member must possess the requisite
qualifications to satisfy the SEC definition of "audit committee financial
expert".
Once a candidate is identified, the Directors & Governance Committee will
consider the candidate's mix of skills and experience with businesses and other
organizations of comparable size, as well as his or her reputation, background
and time availability (in light of anticipated needs). The committee will also
consider the interplay of the candidate's experience with the experience of
other board members, the extent to which the candidate would be a desirable
addition to the board and any committees of the board and any other factors it
deems appropriate.
Stockholders may propose director nominees for consideration by submitting
a recommendation in writing to:
Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc.
1166 Avenue of the Americas
New York, New York 10036-2774
Attn: Directors & Governance Committee
c/o Mr. William J. White,
Assistant Corporate Secretary
The Directors & Governance Committee may ask any proposed nominee to
provide such information as is reasonably necessary to determine his or her
eligibility and qualifications to serve as a director of MMC, including
information that relates to a candidate's independence and financial literacy.
11
Depending on the needs of the board, the Directors & Governance Committee
may consider director nominees proposed by stockholders at any time throughout
the year, but in no event will a nominee be considered later than the next
annual meeting of stockholders for which a recommendation was timely received.
To be timely received in connection with an annual meeting of stockholders, a
recommendation on a proposed director candidate should be sent to us at the
above address no later than the December 31st preceding that annual meeting.
Attendance
The average attendance by directors at meetings of the board and its
committees was approximately 93%. All current directors attended at least 75% of
the meetings of the board and committees on which they served. Barring
unforeseen circumstances, all directors are expected to attend our annual
meeting of stockholders. In 2004, all but one of our directors attended the
annual stockholders meeting.
Codes of Business Conduct and Ethics
We have adopted the MMC Code of Business Conduct and Ethics that is
applicable to all directors and all employees, including officers, of MMC. This
code is posted on the MMC website, www.mmc.com, and a print copy is available to
any stockholder upon request. We have also adopted the Code of Ethics for Chief
Executive and Senior Financial Officers which applies to our chief executive
officer, chief financial officer and controller and which is filed as an exhibit
to our 2002 Annual Report on Form 10-K. We intend to disclose amendments to, or
waivers from, the Code of Ethics, if any, on our website.
Communications with the Board
To report any issue relating to the accounting, internal accounting
controls or auditing practices of MMC (including its subsidiaries and
affiliates), employees, stockholders and others may contact the company by mail
or telephone, as described below. Anyone who wishes to send a communication to
our non-executive chairman or to the independent directors as a group may also
do so by mail or telephone, as follows:
By mail to:
Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc.
P.O. Box 4974
New York, N.Y. 10185-4974
By telephone to the MMC Compliance & Ethics Line:
Canada & the U.S.: 1-800-381-2105
Outside Canada & the U.S., use your country's AT&T Direct(R) service number
to reach the MMC Ethics & Compliance Line toll-free.
MMC's procedures for handling complaints and concerns of employees and
other interested parties are posted on our website at
http://www.mmc.com/corpgov.html.
Tenure
Non-executive directors retire at the annual meeting following their 72nd
birthday, unless the person has been a non-executive director for less than ten
years. In such cases, non-executive directors retire at the annual meeting
following the earlier of ten years of service or attaining age 75. Executive
directors resign from the board upon their retirement.
Directors' Compensation
Directors who are also employees (currently only Mr. Cherkasky) receive no
compensation specific to their service as directors.
With regard to compensation for the service of our non-executive
directors, we paid the following compensation to Messrs. Bernard, Carter,
Erburu, Fanjul, Hardis, Olsen, Schapiro, Lord Lang, Ms. King and Ms. Simmons:
o a basic retainer of $40,000 per year and an annual stock grant as
determined by the Directors & Governance Committee, which was 1,800 shares
in 2004 (the "Annual Stock Grant");
o a fee of $1,000 and reimbursement of related expenses for each meeting of
the board or a committee they attend;
o an additional retainer of $5,000 per year to the chair of each committee;
and
o an additional retainer of $2,000 per year to other members of committees.
We also offer travel accident insurance benefits to non-executive directors
in connection with MMC-related business travel. Non-executive directors are
eligible to participate in MMC's matching-gift program for certain charitable
gifts by employees up to a maximum of $5,000 per year.
Under the terms of MMC's Directors Stock Compensation Plan, the
non-executive directors receive twenty-five percent of their basic retainer in
12
MMC stock at the fair market value thereof, as well as their Annual Stock Grant,
on each June 1. The balance of their compensation (including attendance fees and
committee retainers) is paid quarterly in either MMC stock or cash, as the
director elects. The non-executive directors may defer receipt of all or a
portion of their compensation to be paid in MMC stock until the year following
either their retirement from the board or a specified earlier date.
Mr. Fanjul serves on MMC's International Advisory Board and is a director
of Marsh, S.A., a Spanish subsidiary of MMC, but receives no additional
compensation for such service.
In 1999, all of MMC's directors were offered the opportunity to invest, on
an after tax, out of pocket basis, in a fund that is a limited partner of
Trident II, L.P. ("Trident II"), a $1.4 billion private equity fund that was to
be managed by MMC Capital, Inc., a subsidiary of MMC. In 1999, Messrs. Bernard
and Hardis and Lord Lang committed to invest an aggregate of $2.29 million in
this fund. Neither the directors nor the fund through which they invested in
Trident II were required to pay the 1.5% management fee or a carried interest
performance fee equal to 20% of the profit generated by the fund, subject to the
achievement of minimum returns for all the limited partners in Trident II. Such
fees, if they had been payable on the same terms in which they were charged to
third-party investors, would not have exceeded $30,000 for any of Messrs.
Bernard and Hardis and Lord Lang in any of the last three years covered by this
proxy statement. See "Transactions with Management and Others; Other
Information" below.
Stock Ownership of Management and Certain Beneficial Owners
The following table reflects the number of shares of our common stock which
each director and each named executive officer, as defined below, has reported
as owning beneficially or otherwise having a pecuniary interest in, and which
all directors and executive officers of MMC have reported as owning beneficially
as a group. These stock holdings are as of February 28, 2005, except with
respect to interests in MMC's Stock Investment Plan and Stock Investment
Supplemental Plan, which are as of December 31, 2004. All of Mr. Greenberg's and
Mr. Coster's holdings are as of October 25, 2004, and January 31, 2005,
respectively, after which dates they were no longer directors or executive
officers of MMC. The table also includes the number of shares of stock
beneficially owned by persons known to MMC to own more than 5% of the
outstanding shares. The term "named executive officer" refers to MMC's current
and former CEO and the four other most highly compensated executive officers of
MMC.
Amount and Nature of
Beneficial Ownership (1)
-------------------------------------------------------
Sole Voting Other than
and Sole Voting
Investment and Investment
Name Power Power (2) Total
--------- ----------- -------------- -------------
Lewis W. Bernard.................................................... 6,000 65,961 71,961
Mathis Cabiallavetta................................................ 19,970 1,102,889 1,122,859
Zachary W. Carter................................................... -- 2,070 2,070
Michael G. Cherkasky................................................ 542 66,719 67,261
Peter Coster........................................................ 19,528 1,247,073 1,266,601
Charles A. Davis.................................................... 33,434 1,249,734 1,283,168
Robert F. Erburu.................................................... -- 48,813 48,813
Oscar Fanjul........................................................ 20,858 -- 20,858
Jeffrey W. Greenberg................................................ 647,505 784,766 1,432,271
Charles E. Haldeman................................................. 53,193 177,108 230,301
Stephen R. Hardis................................................... 22,000 22,178 44,178
Gwendolyn S. King................................................... -- 15,241 15,241
Lord Lang........................................................... 6,260 5,828 12,088
David A. Olsen...................................................... 427,708 213,154 640,862
Morton O. Schapiro.................................................. -- 6,315 6,315
Adele Simmons....................................................... 194,882 35,478 230,360
All directors, nominees and executive officers as a group,
as of February 28, 2005 (3)....................................... 1,008,199 4,815,986 5,824,185
13
Amount Percentage of Stock
Beneficially Outstanding as of
Name Owned December 31, 2004
--------- ----------------- -----------------
Capital Research and Management Company (4)
333 South Hope Street
Los Angeles, CA 90071............................................... 49,173,500 9.3%
Pacific Financial Research, Inc. (5)
9601 Wilshire Blvd., Ste. 800
Beverly Hills, CA 90210............................................. 40,153,800 7.6%
State Street Bank & Trust Company, Trustee (6)
225 Franklin St.
Boston, MA 02110.................................................... 35,216,863 6.7%
T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. (7)
100 E. Pratt Street
Baltimore, MD 21202................................................. 28,172,141 5.3%
------------------------
(1) As of February 28, 2005, no director or named executive officer
beneficially owned more than 1% of the outstanding stock, and all directors
and executive officers as a group beneficially owned approximately 1.1% of
the outstanding stock.
(2) This column includes shares of stock that: (i) are held in the form of
shares of restricted stock; (ii) are held indirectly for the benefit of
such individuals or jointly, or directly or indirectly for certain members
of such individuals' families, with respect to which beneficial ownership
in certain cases may be disclaimed; and/or (iii) represent such
individuals' interests in MMC's Stock Investment Plan. This column also
includes MMC stock units that are subject to issuance in the future with
respect to the Directors Stock Compensation Plan, cash bonus deferral plans
or MMC's Stock Investment Supplemental Plan, and restricted stock units in
the following aggregate amounts: Mr. Bernard, 65,961 shares; Mr.
Cabiallavetta, 116,390 shares; Mr. Carter, 2,070 shares; Mr. Cherkasky,
66,719 shares; Mr. Coster, 134,081 shares; Mr. Davis, 195,009 shares; Mr.
Erburu, 48,813 shares; Mr. Greenberg, 143,775 shares; Mr. Haldeman, 112,908
shares; Mr. Hardis, 22,178 shares; Ms. King, 14,841 shares; Mr. Schapiro,
6,315 shares; Mrs. Simmons, 32,680 shares; and all directors and executive
officers as a group as of February 28, 2005, 1,031,566 shares. This column
also includes shares of MMC stock which may be acquired on or before April
29, 2005 through the exercise of stock options as follows: Mr.
Cabiallavetta, 848,000 shares; Mr. Coster, 890,000 shares; Mr. Davis,
926,250 shares; Mr. Haldeman, 50,300 shares; and all directors and
executive officers as a group as of February 28, 2005, 3,131,950 shares.
Following his exercise of certain stock options on the date of termination
of his employment with MMC, Mr. Greenberg no longer held stock options. See
footnote 2 to the "Aggregated Option Exercises in 2004 & Year-End Option
Values" table below.
(3) This group includes the individuals listed in the table except for Messrs.
Coster and Greenberg, who were no longer directors or executive officers of
MMC as of February 28, 2005, plus ten additional executive officers.
(4) This information is based upon the number of shares listed in a Schedule
13G filed by Capital Research and Management Company, dated February 9,
2005.
(5) This information is based upon the number of shares listed in a Schedule
13G filed by Pacific Financial Research, Inc., dated February 11, 2005.
(6) This information is based upon the number of shares listed in a Schedule
13G filed by State Street Bank and Trust Company, dated February 15, 2005.
Of the reported shares, 21,106,039, or 4% of the total shares of MMC common
stock outstanding at December 31, 2004, were held by State Street Bank and
Trust Company as trustee of the MMC Stock Investment Plan. Shares held in
the Plan are registered in the name of the Plan's trustee and not in the
names of the individual participants. Under the provisions of the Stock
Investment Plan, voting rights are passed through to the employees in
proportion to their interests. Unvoted shares will generally be voted by
the trustee in the same proportion as the shares voted. Of the shares held
in the Plan at December 31, 2004, approximately 20,436, or .01%, were held
for directors and executive officers of MMC and are included in the
ownership shown above for all directors and executive officers as a group.
(7) This information is based upon the number of shares listed in a Schedule
13G filed by T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. ("Price Associates"), dated
February 14, 2005. As stated in the 13G filing, Price Associates expressly
disclaims beneficial ownership of these shares.
14
COMPENSATION OF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
The following tables contain information with respect to MMC's named
executive officers. Mr. Coster retired on January 31, 2005. Mr. Cherkasky's
employment with MMC began July 7, 2004 and Mr. Greenberg's employment with MMC
terminated October 25, 2004. The number of shares and per share prices are
adjusted to reflect MMC's two-for-one stock split effective June 28, 2002.
Summary Compensation Table
The following table sets forth cash and other compensation paid or earned
for services rendered in 2004, 2003 and 2002. The 2004 salary amounts shown for
Messrs. Cherkasky and Greenberg reflect amounts paid to them for the portion
of the year during which they were employed by MMC.
Annual Compensation Long Term Compensation
------------------------------------------ -------------------------------------
Name and Other Annual Restricted Securities LTIP All Other
Principal Compensation Stock Underlying Payouts Compensation
Position Year Salary($) Bonus($)(1) ($)(2) Awards ($)(3) Options (#)(4) ($)(5) ($)(6)
------------------------- ---- --------- ----------- ------------ ------------- -------------- ------- --------------
Michael G. Cherkasky..... 2004 373,965 600,000 -- 3,000,020 -- -- --
President and Chief
Executive Officer, MMC
Chairman & Chief
Executive Officer, Marsh Inc.
Jeffrey W. Greenberg..... 2004 1,000,000 -- 48,319 4,385,339 220,000 -- 43,200
Former Chairman and Chief 8,651,250(7)
Executive Officer, 2003 1,200,000 3,500,042 -- 1,056,988 500,000 542,293 51,602
MMC 8,060,625
2002 1,200,000 4,500,040 91,798 921,150 450,000 2,107,832 48,003
Charles E. Haldeman...... 2004 900,000 6,500,000 33,826 6,100,000(8) -- -- 147,500
President and Chief 2003 483,333 8,600,006 -- 4,000,076 45,000 -- 15,000
Executive Officer, 80,000(9)
Putnam Investments 2002 75,000 8,600,008 -- 2,595,408 55,600 -- 4,000,000
869,952(8) 19,200(9)
Charles A. Davis......... 2004 900,000 2,144,375 38,677 2,673,648 125,000 406,000 54,000
Chairman and Chief 2003 900,000 2,350,042 -- 1,341,283 250,000 599,175 41,252
Executive Officer 2002 850,000 2,000,000 -- 636,281 200,000 1,794,373 34,002
MMC Capital, Inc.
Mathis Cabiallavetta(10). 2004 1,025,270 1,721,592 3,302 3,326,697 132,000 -- 54,000
Chairman 2003 982,848 2,325,738 -- 2,596,591 300,000 -- 54,000
MMC International 2002 850,000 2,015,967 -- 560,000 220,000 -- 48,450
Peter Coster............. 2004 950,000 1,000,000 23,229 3,119,064 -- -- 57,450
Former President 2003 950,000 1,650,013 -- 666,345 200,000 -- 57,000
Mercer Inc. 2002 950,000 1,550,031 515,930 820,337 120,000 -- 54,150
------------------------
(1) The bonus amounts shown in the table for 2004 represent cash bonus awards
based on MMC, operating company and individual performance during 2004.
(2) Other Annual Compensation for 2004, including perquisites, for each of the
named executive officers was less than the lesser of $50,000 or 10% of the
total of such executive officer's salary and bonus reported for the year.
(3) Amounts shown in the table for 2004 include the value, as of the date of
grant, of 66,719 restricted stock units of MMC granted to Mr. Cherkasky as
a retention award in connection with the acquisition of Kroll by MMC in
July 2004. Mr. Cherkasky's restricted stock units vest on the fourth
anniversary of the date of grant. As set forth in the table below, the
amounts shown in 2004 for Messrs. Greenberg, Davis, Cabiallavetta and
Coster include the value, as of the date of grant, of: (i) restricted stock
that vests in the year following completion of 10 years of service from the
date of grant, (ii) restricted stock that vests in the year following
completion of 7 years of service from the date of grant, and (iii)
restricted stock units granted under MMC's voluntary deferral programs that
vest three years from the date of grant:
15
10-Year Restricted Stock 7-Year Restricted Stock 3-Year Restricted Stock
-------------------------- -------------------------- --------------------------
Value at Value at Value at Total Grant
Name # Shares Grant # Shares Grant # Units Grant Value
--------------- ----------- -------------- ----------- -------------- ------------ ------------- --------------
Greenberg...... 18,300 $844,362 74,000 $3,414,360 2,700 $126,617 $4,385,339
Davis.......... 12,700 $585,978 41,700 $1,924,038 3,445 $163,632 $2,673,648
Cabiallavetta.. 23,900 $1,102,746 45,800 $2,113,212 2,349 $110,739 $3,326,697
Coster......... 13,400 $618,276 54,200 $2,500,788 -- -- $3,119,064
During the applicable vesting and restricted periods, holders of shares of
restricted stock receive the same dividend payments as those paid on the
outstanding shares of MMC stock, and holders of restricted stock units
receive dividend equivalent payments that are equal in amount to dividends
paid on shares of MMC common stock. Vesting of restricted stock and
restricted stock units may be accelerated upon a change in control. "Change
in Control" of MMC means generally any of the following: any person or
group becoming the owner of securities with 50% or more of the voting power
of MMC; within a two-year period (with certain exceptions) a change in
directors constituting a majority of the board; stockholder approval of a
merger or consolidation of MMC resulting in MMC stockholders not owning
securities with 50% or more of the voting power of the surviving entity;
and stockholder approval of a plan of complete liquidation or an agreement
for the sale or disposition of all or substantially all of MMC's assets.
Under the MMC Special Severance Pay Plan, certain holders of restricted
stock or awards in lieu of restricted stock with at least ten years of
service will receive payment in shares of MMC stock upon forfeiture of
their awards if their employment with MMC or one of its subsidiaries
terminates. The amount of such payment is based on years of service, with
the individual receiving up to a maximum of 90% of the value of the
restricted shares after 25 years of service, subject to execution of a
non-solicitation agreement.
As of December 31, 2004, each individual in the Summary Compensation Table,
other than Mr. Greenberg, had outstanding restricted stock and restricted
stock units of MMC with an aggregate value (using the closing price of
common stock on the New York Stock Exchange Composite Index on December 31,
2004 of $32.90) as follows:
Name Shares Units Share Value Unit Value
----------------------- ------------- ------------- ------------------ -------------------
Cherkasky.............. -- 66,719 -- $2,195,055
Haldeman............... -- 112,908 -- $3,714,673
Davis.................. 126,300 135,941 $4,155,270 $4,472,459
Cabiallavetta.......... 138,200 111,465 $4,546,780 $3,667,199
Coster................. 222,500 116,688 $7,320,250 $3,839,035
At the time of his termination of employment in October 2004, Mr. Greenberg
held restricted stock or restricted stock units representing 762,603 shares
of MMC stock. Except as noted below, all of Mr. Greenberg's restricted
stock and restricted stock units, including those granted to him in 2004,
were forfeited in connection with his termination of employment. Absent
such forfeiture, the restricted stock and restricted stock units would have
had a value on December 31, 2004 of $25,089,639. Following his termination
of employment, MMC entered into a letter of understanding with Mr.
Greenberg (described on page 21 of this proxy statement) under which, in
the absence of an agreement, both MMC and Mr. Greenberg are free to
maintain their respective positions with regard to the characterization of
Mr. Greenberg's termination of employment. MMC has not yet made a
determination as to the characterization of Mr. Greenberg's termination of
employment. As a result, a portion of Mr. Greenberg's forfeited restricted
stock and restricted stock units may be eligible for reinstatement,
depending on the resolution of the characterization of his termination of
employment.
(4) Amounts shown in the table for 2004 represent options to purchase shares of
MMC granted in March 2004. Stock options granted to Mr. Greenberg in 2004
were forfeited in connection with his termination of employment in October
2004.
(5) MMC Capital's Long Term Incentive Plan ("LTIP") operates as an incentive
compensation pool that varies in amount based on the extent of investment
return and fees from originating, structuring and managing certain
insurance and related industry investments in which MMC has direct or
indirect interests. In this regard, the incentive compensation pool
includes, among other things, a portion of the gross profits realized in
cash from certain direct investments made by Marsh & McLennan Risk Capital
Holdings, Ltd., a subsidiary of MMC, as well as a portion of the carried
interest and management fees received from The Trident Partnership, L.P., a
private equity fund co-managed by MMC Capital that was formed in 1994. As
noted in the table, in 2004, Mr. Davis received a payout under the LTIP of
$406,000. A 2004 LTIP payout for Mr. Greenberg of approximately $61,283 is
pending, subject to a determination of the characterization of Mr.
Greenberg's termination of employment. Vesting schedules under the LTIP
will accelerate upon a change of control of MMC (as described in footnote 3
above), a change in control of MMC Capital (defined to mean that MMC no
longer owns at least 50% of the value and voting power of MMC Capital), or
upon the retirement, death or disability of the participating executive. On
February 28, 2005, MMC signed a non-binding letter of intent providing for
the transfer of MMC Capital's business to a company to be formed by MMC
Capital's senior management. As part of the
16
transfer, Mr. Davis will waive any claims to accelerated payments under the
LTIP. An accelerated payout for Mr. Greenberg of approximately $125,000
could result in the event that it is determined that (a) Mr. Greenberg's
employment terminated other than for cause, and (b) there has been a change
in control of MMC Capital as defined in the LTIP. See "Transactions with
Management and Others; Other Information" below.
Mr. Greenberg and Mr. Davis also participate in the carried interest of
certain of the other private equity funds managed by MMC Capital, including
Trident II, L.P. and Trident III, L.P. Participation in the carried
interest for these funds is not governed by the LTIP but rather by the
partnership agreements for the general partners of those various
partnerships. In 1999, Mr. Greenberg purchased general and limited
partnership interests in the general partner of Trident II, a private
equity fund managed by MMC Capital, and in 1999, 2000 and 2003, Mr. Davis
purchased general and limited partnership interests in the general partners
of five private equity funds managed by MMC Capital, including Trident II
and Trident III. These purchases were made on an after-tax, out-of-pocket
basis. Mr. Greenberg's and Mr. Davis' interests provide for participations
in the carried interest of these funds equal to approximately 1% and 2%,
respectively, of the profit generated by these funds, subject to the
achievement of minimum returns for the institutional investors in the
funds. Messrs. Greenberg and Davis did not receive any payout in connection
with these carried interest participations in 2002, 2003 or 2004. Based on
the carrying values contained in the financial statements of these private
equity funds as of December 31, 2004, the estimated value of Mr.
Greenberg's and Mr. Davis' interests in future payouts in respect of these
carried interest participations aggregated approximately $4.5 million and
$7.7 million, respectively, in each case based on a liquidation value as of
that date and subject to realization of estimated returns. The carried
interests may be subject to reduction or forfeiture in connection with Mr.
Greenberg's and Mr. Davis' termination of employment under certain
circumstances. In the event of a change in control of MMC or MMC Capital
prior to a termination of employment other than for cause, the carried
interests cannot be so reduced or forfeited, including with respect to
subsequent investments. A change in control of MMC or MMC Capital would not
result in accelerated payment of any carried interest to Mr. Greenberg or
Mr. Davis. The characterization of Mr. Greenberg's termination is subject
to resolution as described above. As a condition to receiving these carried
interest participations, Mr. Greenberg and Mr. Davis were also required to
make after-tax, out-of-pocket investments at the time of the formation of
the funds. Mr. Greenberg and Mr. Davis were not required to pay management,
carried interest performance or other fees in connection with these
investments and, in certain cases, were excused from participating in a
particular investment in order to avoid the appearance of any inappropriate
remuneration or as otherwise deemed advisable. In 2000, Mr. Coster, in his
capacity as an employee of Mercer Consulting, purchased on an after-tax,
out-of-pocket basis, a limited partnership interest in a fund that invests
alongside a private equity fund managed by MMC Capital. Neither Mr. Coster
nor this fund is required to pay any management, carried interest
performance or other fees in connection with this investment. See
"Transactions with Management and Others; Other Information" below.
(6) Amounts shown for 2004 consist of the following: (a) matching contributions
under the MMC Stock Investment Plan and Stock Investment Supplemental Plan
of $43,200 for Mr. Greenberg, $54,000 for Mr. Davis, $54,000 for Mr.
Cabiallavetta and $57,450 for Mr. Coster and (b) contributions by Putnam of
$30,750 to the Putnam Profit Sharing Retirement Plan and $116,750 to the
Putnam Executive Deferred Compensation Plan for Mr. Haldeman.
(7) This amount represents the value, as of the date of grant, of a special
10-year restricted stock grant to Mr. Greenberg of 187,500 restricted
shares, as noted in the Compensation Committee Report beginning on page 22
of this proxy statement. The restricted stock was scheduled to vest in the
year following completion of 10 years of service from the date of grant and
was forfeited in connection with Mr. Greenberg's termination of employment
in October 2004.
(8) These amounts represent the value, as of the date of grant, of restricted
Putnam Class B shares. The amount shown in 2004 for Mr. Haldeman represents
the value, as of the date of grant, of restricted Putnam Class B Shares
granted to Mr. Haldeman in January 2005 for 2004 performance. All grants of
restricted Putnam Class B Shares include the right to dividend payments
equal in amount to dividends paid on the outstanding Class A Shares of
Putnam. The restricted Putnam Class B Shares vest at a rate of 25% a year
beginning with the first anniversary of the date of the grant. Upon certain
corporate events affecting Putnam or MMC, vesting of shares of restricted
Putnam Class B Shares may be accelerated. At December 31, 2004, Mr.
Haldeman had 72,063 restricted Putnam Class B Shares with an estimated
aggregate value of $2,086,944 based on a valuation methodology for
determining fair market value which at December 31, 2004 was $28.96 per
share.
(9) These amounts represent options to purchase Putnam Class B shares.
(10) Mr. Cabiallavetta's 2004 salary and bonus, denominated in US dollars, were
$900,000 and $1,452,000, respectively. Approximately 60% of his 2004 salary
and bonus was paid in Swiss Francs and was converted from US dollars to
Swiss Francs using a fixed exchange rate of 1.53 CHF to 1 US$. The amounts
shown in the table reflect fluctuating exchange rates in effect at the time
of each payment to Mr. Cabiallavetta. Mr. Cabiallavetta's salary amount for
2003 and his bonus amounts for 2002 and 2003 have been revised from the
amounts shown in last year's proxy statement to reflect the impact of
fluctuating exchange rates in effect at the time of each payment.
17
Option Grants in 2004
The table below describes MMC stock options granted in March 2004.
Individual Grants(1)
---------------------------------------------------- Potential Realizable Value
Number of % of Total at Assumed Annual Rates of
Securities Options Stock Price Appreciation
Underlying Granted to Exercise For Option Term(2)
Options Employees Price Expiration ------------------------------------
Name Granted in 2004 ($/sh) Date 5%($) 10%($)
------ ----------- ---------- ----------- -------------- ------------------------------------
Michael G. Cherkasky.... -- 0.0% -- -- -- --
Jeffrey W. Greenberg(3). 220,000 2.4% 46.14 3/16/2014 6,383,784 16,177,761
Charles E. Haldeman..... -- 0.0% -- -- -- --
Charles A. Davis........ 125,000 1.3% 46.14 3/16/2014 3,627,150 9,191,910
Mathis Cabiallavetta.... 132,000 1.4% 46.14 3/16/2014 3,830,270 9,706,657
Peter Coster............ -- 0.0% -- --
MMC Stockholders(4)..... 15,291,887,776 38,752,646,001
------------------------
(1) Stock options shown in the table become exercisable 25% a year beginning
one year from the date of grant. The option exercise price may be paid in
cash or in shares of common stock. In the event of a change in control of
MMC (as described in footnote 3 to the Summary Compensation Table above),
all stock options will become fully exercisable and vested, and any
restrictions contained in the terms and conditions of the option grants
shall lapse. If any payments made in connection with a change in control
are subject to the excise tax imposed under the federal tax laws, MMC will
increase the option holder's payment as necessary to restore such option
holder to the same after-tax position had the excise tax not been imposed.
(2) The dollar amounts show the potential realizable value of the options at
the end of their 10-year term assuming that the market price of MMC Stock
appreciates in value from the date of grant at 5% and 10% annual growth
rates, as required under SEC rules. The rates are not intended to be a
forecast of future stock price appreciation. A zero percent stock price
growth rate will result in a zero gain for all option holders.
(3) Stock options shown in the table for Mr. Greenberg were forfeited in
connection with his termination of employment in October 2004.
(4) The dollar amounts are included for comparative purposes to show the
aggregate gain that would be achieved by all holders of the outstanding
stock of MMC at the assumed stock price appreciation rates at the end of
the 10-year term of the MMC options granted on March 17, 2004 at an
exercise price of $46.14.
18
Aggregated Option Exercises in 2004 & Year-End Option Values
The following table sets forth certain information concerning stock options
exercised during 2004 and the number and value of unexercised in-the-money
options at December 31, 2004.
Number of Securities Underlying Value of Unexercised
Unexercised Options at In-the-Money Options at
Shares Value December 31, 2004 December 31, 2004 (1)
Acquired on Realized _______________________________ ________________________________
Name Exercise(#) ($) Exercisable(#) Unexercisable(#) Exercisable($) Unexercisable($)
------ ------------ ---------- -------------- ---------------- -------------- ----------------
Michael G. Cherkasky........... -- -- -- -- -- --
Jeffrey W. Greenberg(2)........ 540,000 5,496,950 -- -- -- --
Charles E. Haldeman............ -- -- 39,050 61,550 -- --
-- -- 29,600(3) 69,600(3) -- --
Charles A. Davis............... -- -- 732,500 462,500 455,500 --
Mathis Cabiallavetta........... -- -- 635,000 517,000 -- --
Peter Coster................... 210,000 5,936,813 645,000 245,000 1,721,500 --
------------------------
(1) The value of unexercised in-the-money stock options at December 31, 2004 is
presented pursuant to SEC rules and is based on the fair market value of
MMC Stock on December 31, 2004, minus the grant price. Fair market value
with respect to MMC stock is based on the closing price on the NYSE
Composite Price Index on December 31, 2004 of $32.90 and, with respect to
the Putnam Class B Shares, is based on a specified valuation methodology
for determining fair market value which at December 31, 2004 was $28.96 per
share. The actual amount, if any, realized upon exercise of stock options
will depend upon the market price of MMC stock relative to the exercise
price per share at the time the stock option is exercised. There is no
assurance that the values of unexercised in-the-money stock options
reflected in this table will be realized.
(2) Mr. Greenberg's employment terminated on October 25, 2004. On that date, he
exercised stock options to acquire 540,000 shares. All of Mr. Greenberg's
unvested stock options were forfeited upon his termination of employment
and the exercisability of his previously vested stock options ceased upon
his termination of employment in accordance with the terms of the
applicable grant documents.
(3) Represents options to acquire Putnam Class B Shares.
19
United States Retirement Program
MMC maintains a United States retirement program consisting of the Marsh &
McLennan Companies Retirement Plan, a non-qualified Benefit Equalization Plan
and a non-qualified Supplemental Retirement Plan.
The following table shows the estimated before-tax annual straight-life
annuity benefit payable under these retirement programs to employees with the
specified maximum average salary (average salary over the 60 consecutive months
of employment that produces the highest average) and specified years of service
upon retirement at age 65, after giving effect to adjustments for Social
Security benefits:
Years of Service
---------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum
Average Salary 5 10 20 30 40 45
------------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ----------
$ 800,000........................ $75,502 $151,005 $302,010 $441,512 $521,512 $561,512
$ 900,000........................ $85,502 $171,005 $342,010 $499,512 $589,512 $634,512
$ 1,000,000........................ $95,502 $191,005 $382,010 $557,512 $657,512 $707,512
$ 1,100,000........................ $105,502 $211,005 $422,010 $615,512 $725,512 $780,512
$ 1,200,000........................ $115,502 $231,005 $462,010 $673,512 $793,512 $853,512
$ 1,300,000........................ $125,502 $251,005 $502,010 $731,512 $861,512 $926,512
$ 1,400,000........................ $135,502 $271,005 $542,010 $789,512 $929,512 $999,512
$ 1,500,000........................ $145,502 $291,005 $582,010 $847,512 $997,512 $1,072,512
The compensation of participants used to calculate the retirement benefit
consists of regular salary as disclosed in the "Salary" column of the Summary
Compensation Table and excludes bonuses and other forms of compensation not
regularly received. Mr. Cherkasky did not participate in MMC's U.S. retirement
program in 2004. He became eligible to participate in the retirement program as
of January 1, 2005. Mr. Haldeman participates in the Putnam Profit Sharing
Retirement Plan and related plans and not in MMC's U.S. retirement program. For
the other individuals named in the Summary Compensation Table, the 2004
compensation used to calculate the maximum average salary and the number of
years of credited service are as follows: Mr. Davis, $900,000, 8 years; Mr.
Cabiallavetta, $900,000, 7 years and Mr. Coster, $950,000, 44 years. The
estimated before-tax annual straight-line annuity benefit for Mr. Greenberg
under the retirement program is $205,592, beginning at age 65. This benefit is
based on a maximum average salary of $1,090,000 and approximately 9 years of
credited service.
20
Employment Agreements
Mr. Cherkasky
Mr. Cherkasky was president and chief executive officer of Kroll before its
acquisition by MMC. In connection with MMC's acquisition of Kroll in July 2004,
Kroll and Marsh USA, Inc. entered into an employment agreement with Mr.
Cherkasky (the "Agreement") governing the terms of his continuing employment.
The Agreement was effective as of July 7, 2004, the effective date of MMC's
acquisition of Kroll, and has a four-year term, subject to renewal upon
agreement of the parties. Under the Agreement, Mr. Cherkasky is entitled to an
annual base salary of at least $750,000, and is eligible for an annual bonus
with a target range of 100-160% of his base salary (with a minimum guaranteed
bonus of 160% of base salary for each of 2004 and 2005), prorated for any
partial years. Mr. Cherkasky is also eligible to participate in MMC's long-term
incentive compensation plans and employee benefit programs on the same terms as
similarly situated executives, and he will be entitled to post-employment
medical benefits.
Under the Agreement, Mr. Cherkasky received a cash bonus of $6,390,000 from
Kroll immediately prior to MMC's acquisition of Kroll, in exchange for his
release of claims under his previous employment agreement with Kroll, and his
continued employment with Kroll through such date. Also on such date, Kroll paid
to Mr. Cherkasky $327,500, representing his accrued but unpaid annual bonus
through June 30, 2004. The Agreement provides that if either of these bonus
payments results in Mr. Cherkasky's being subject to the "golden parachute"
excise tax, Marsh would make an additional payment to Mr. Cherkasky such that
the net amount received by him is equal to the amount he would have received had
the excise tax not been applicable.
In addition on the effective date of MMC's acquisition of Kroll, Mr.
Cherkasky received a retention award of MMC restricted stock units having a fair
market value on the date of grant of $3,000,000. The restricted stock units will
vest on the fourth anniversary of the date of grant, subject to Mr. Cherkasky's
continued employment through such date. If Mr. Cherkasky's employment is
terminated other than for cause (as defined in the Agreement) or if he resigns
for "good reason" (as defined in the Agreement), Mr. Cherkasky will be entitled
to receive his accrued salary and bonus and, subject to the execution by Mr.
Cherkasky of a mutual release of claims, he will be entitled to a lump sum
payment equal to his annual base salary, as well as vesting of the MMC
restricted stock units described above.
Mr. Greenberg
Mr. Greenberg's employment with MMC terminated on October 25, 2004. On
November 9, 2004, MMC entered into a letter of understanding with Mr. Greenberg
(the "Letter") confirming certain arrangements regarding his termination of
employment. The Letter provides that in the absence of an agreement as to the
characterization of Mr. Greenberg's termination of employment, both MMC and Mr.
Greenberg will be free to maintain their respective positions with regard to Mr.
Greenberg's termination of employment. The Letter confirms that Mr. Greenberg is
entitled to COBRA continuation of health care coverage in accordance with
applicable law. MMC also agreed to provide Mr. Greenberg with an off-site office
and secretary, and continuation of security, for six months from the date of his
termination of employment.
21
Compensation Committee Report
This report is submitted to the stockholders of MMC by the Compensation
Committee (the "Committee") of the board of directors. The Committee consists
solely of non-executive directors who are independent, as determined by the
board in accordance with MMC guidelines and New York Stock Exchange listing
standards. The Committee met ten times in 2004.
By its charter, the Committee is charged with reviewing and approving MMC's
compensation philosophies and overseeing the development and implementation of
compensation programs for the CEO and other senior executives. The Committee
determines the compensation of MMC's chief executive officer ("CEO"), approves
the compensation of other senior executives and makes recommendations to the
board of directors with respect to incentive compensation plans and equity-based
plans. This report reflects the Committee's executive compensation policies,
plans and actions and describes the Committee's activities in response to MMC's
changing business environment in 2004.
Tax Deductibility of Executive Compensation
Federal tax law limits the ability of publicly-traded companies to secure
an income tax deduction for compensation paid to certain highly compensated
individuals. The Committee's policy is to take actions deemed to be in the best
interests of MMC and its stockholders, recognizing, however, that achieving the
desired flexibility in the design and delivery of compensation may result in
compensation that is not in all instances deductible for federal income tax
purposes because of the restrictions set forth in Section 162(m) of the Internal
Revenue Code.
Executive Compensation Philosophy and
Approach
The compensation program for senior executives of MMC and its subsidiaries
comprises:
o Base salary
o Annual performance-based incentive compensation, and
o Long-term incentive compensation.
The Committee intends that the level, composition, and terms and conditions
of each component of compensation enable MMC to attract, retain and motivate the
most highly qualified and capable professionals available to lead the
organization's diverse businesses. The Committee also seeks to ensure that a
substantial portion of senior executives' long-term compensation is tied to the
long-term performance of MMC and MMC's stock price. These principles are
reflected in the actions discussed below relating to salaries, annual incentive
awards and long-term compensation.
Independent Professional Advice: The Committee reviews periodically the
levels and components of executive compensation and utilizes an independent
compensation consulting firm to provide data, to offer professional observations
regarding the compensation practices of comparable companies and to advise the
Committee on specific executive compensation subjects that arise.
In early 2004, the Committee requested and received advice from its
independent compensation consultant with respect to 2003 bonus awards paid in
2004 and the planning of equity grants for 2004. The Committee considered the
nature of equity grants to be made to senior executives in light of the purpose
of different forms of equity grants and the appropriate balance of incentives.
The Committee also considered the prospective expensing of stock option grants
and the rate of share utilization under MMC's long-term incentive plans. Based
on the foregoing considerations, the Committee decided to adjust the balance of
equity grants relative to prior years by reducing the number of stock options
granted and replacing a portion of that value with restricted stock that vests
after seven years.
In late 2004, the Committee engaged a new independent compensation
consulting firm and independent legal counsel to assist in addressing issues
arising in late 2004 and to provide advice on prospective changes to MMC's
executive compensation programs.
Putnam: Members of Putnam's senior management group (including Mr.
Haldeman) participate in a compensation program designed over time to support
Putnam's business needs and reflect its marketplace. Annual incentive awards for
Putnam executives are made under plans that are funded based on the level of
Putnam's earnings, earnings growth, annual plan funding agreements with MMC or
predetermined plan formulae. Long-term incentive compensation for Putnam
execu-
22
tives is in the form of restricted stock and stock options with respect to Class
B shares of Putnam. Putnam employees may also be considered for grants of MMC
restricted stock and/or options from time to time. Because employees of Putnam
participate in a compensation program specific to Putnam, the discussion
provided in the following sections of this report relating to the incentive
compensation of MMC's senior executives excludes Putnam.
Base Salary
Base salaries of senior executives are intended to reflect their roles and
responsibilities and be competitive with respect to the relevant marketplace as
to the availability of talent and compensation levels. In general, a senior
executive's base salary is adjusted when an adjustment is necessary to reflect a
change in the individual's responsibilities, growth in their job role or when
market or internal equity conditions may warrant. In January 2004, Mr.
Haldeman's salary was increased, effective November 2003, to reflect his
increased responsibilities as a result of his becoming president and chief
executive officer of Putnam in November 2003. Base salaries for the other senior
executives named in this proxy statement were not changed in 2004.
Annual Incentive Compensation
Incentive compensation for 2004 was influenced by events associated with
the New York Attorney General's investigation and lawsuit, management changes,
disparate performance among the businesses and overall enterprise results. As
such, the determination of awards, in aggregate and for individuals, posed major
challenges.
The 2004 annual incentive compensation for senior executives was in the
form of a cash bonus. The size of the annual incentive award pool is based on
earnings and reflects MMC's net operating income performance. For 2004, the
Committee approved annual incentive awards that were less than the pool,
reflecting events of 2004 and new management's judgment regarding appropriate
levels of incentive compensation for 2004.
With respect to individual annual incentive awards, the Committee exercises
its judgment, giving predominant weight to the performance of the senior
executive's business unit (measured by net operating income) and also weighing
MMC's overall performance and the CEO's recommendation and evaluation of the
senior executive's performance and ongoing role within the organization.
In general, annual incentive awards for 2004 were lower than for 2003. For
those senior executives eligible for annual incentive awards for both 2003 and
2004, the average award for 2004 was down by 28% from 2003.
Long-Term Compensation
Purpose: The Committee believes that retaining and motivating the senior
executives of MMC by fostering stock ownership is essential to continuing
success. The Committee has relied historically on a combination of 10-year
restricted stock and stock options as incentives and rewards for senior
executives to reinforce a longer-term perspective and to link senior executives'
financial interests over time with those of stockholders. In addition, under
voluntary deferral programs, a supplemental restricted stock unit award with
vesting requirements may be granted as an additional inducement for long-term
stock ownership.
2004 Program: In March 2004, the Committee made long-term incentive grants
to MMC senior executives in the form of 10-year restricted stock, 7-year
restricted stock and stock options. As noted earlier in this Report, the stock
option component of senior executives' long-term incentive grants was reduced,
with a portion of the remaining value replaced by 7-year restricted stock.
Within this framework, the mix and value of long-term incentive grants for
senior executives (other than the CEO) are approved by the Committee based on
the recommendations of the CEO.
The long-term restricted stock awards granted to senior executives vest in
the year following completion of either 10 years of service or 7 years of
service from the date of grant, with no annual incremental vesting. Stock
options granted to senior executives have an exercise price equal to the fair
market value of MMC stock on the trading day prior to the date of the grant and
generally vest ratably over 4 years of service from the date of grant.
Individual grant levels reflect the Committee's judgment based on a number
of factors, including the senior executive's role, performance and potential for
future contributions to the long-term success of MMC.
Prospective Program: The Committee believes that MMC's overall compensation
strategy must evolve in line with the company's developing
23
business model and operating environment. Accordingly, the Committee, together
with its independent compensation consultant, intends to reconsider the nature
and levels of long-term compensation in light of these developments. The
Committee expects this process to result in an approach to long-term incentives
that may differ from past practice, utilizing a mix of stock options, restricted
stock and other performance-based equity vehicles to ensure that critical
business objectives and measures are addressed and that pay for performance is
paramount in the design of a balanced program.
Proposed Option Exchange: The Committee believes that the effectiveness of
MMC's long-term incentive program-and of the Committee's proposed changes to
that program-is significantly weakened as a result of the substantial number of
stock options that are significantly underwater (i.e., the exercise price
exceeds the current stock price for MMC common stock). These stock options are
not serving an effective retention and incentive function and may hinder the
Committee's ability to ensure that MMC's long-term compensation program has a
strong future performance orientation.
The Committee addressed this situation, with significant background and
analysis provided by its independent advisors. The Committee engaged in in-depth
discussions, over multiple meetings, of the merits of, and issues associated
with, a stock option exchange. The Committee concluded that stockholder
interests are best served by a stock option exchange program that is designed in
line with "best practices" and that supports a long-term perspective as part of
an appropriate incentive compensation program. The proposed stock option
exchange program is included in this proxy statement for stockholder approval.
Under the proposed program, eligible optionholders may elect to exchange
certain MMC stock options for new unvested stock options representing the right
to purchase fewer shares with an exercise price equal to the fair market value
of MMC common stock at the time of the exchange. As described in more detail on
pages 31-34 of this proxy statement:
o Only stock options underwater by 25% or more would be eligible for the
exchange program,
o Exchange ratios would be set with the intention that optionholders
receive stock options representing the right to purchase that number
of shares of MMC common stock such that each new option would have a
Black-Scholes value equal to 90% of the Black-Scholes value of the
exchanged option, and
o New options would be unvested for at least two years.
The exchange would reduce the total number of shares subject to options,
thereby reducing the potential dilutive effect of MMC's equity plans. MMC's
current and former most senior executive officers would be excluded from the
exchange program.
CEO Compensation
Mr. Greenberg served as CEO of MMC until the termination of his employment
on October 25, 2004, and Mr. Cherkasky became CEO of MMC on that date.
Mr. Greenberg: Mr. Greenberg's annualized base salary for 2004 was
$1,200,000, unchanged since January 1, 2000. The Committee did not award Mr.
Greenberg an annual incentive award for 2004.
In March 2004, Mr. Greenberg received long-term incentive grants of 18,300
shares of 10-year restricted stock, 74,000 shares of 7-year restricted stock and
220,000 stock options. Mr. Greenberg also received a supplemental grant of 2,700
restricted stock units under a voluntary deferral program in connection with his
deferral of previously granted restricted stock units. As described in last
year's report, in 2002 and 2003, the Committee utilized an independent
compensation consulting firm to assist in evaluating Mr. Greenberg's
compensation. As a result of that study, the Committee, in March 2003,
established a program for a series of special 10-year restricted stock grants to
Mr. Greenberg. In March 2004, Mr. Greenberg was granted the second installment
of 187,500 shares of 10-year restricted stock pursuant to this program.
All of the 2004 equity grants made to Mr. Greenberg, including the special
10-year restricted stock award, were forfeited upon the termination of his
employment in October 2004.
24
Mr. Greenberg had no individual employment agreement or retirement or
severance arrangement with MMC. Following the termination of his employment, MMC
entered into a letter of understanding with Mr. Greenberg (described on page 21
of this proxy statement) confirming certain arrangements regarding his
termination of employment.
Mr. Cherkasky: In connection with MMC's acquisition of Kroll in July 2004,
Mr. Cherkasky, Kroll and Marsh USA, Inc. entered into an employment agreement
governing the terms of Mr. Cherkasky's continuing employment by Kroll. Mr.
Cherkasky's compensation for 2004 was determined by the terms of the employment
agreement, which has not been modified to reflect his increased responsibilities
as a result of his becoming chief executive officer of Marsh and MMC. The
Committee intends to reconsider Mr. Cherkasky's employment agreement, including
the compensation elements, in light of his current role.
Under the employment agreement, which is described on page 21 of this proxy
statement, Mr. Cherkasky's annual base salary is $750,000 and his minimum annual
bonus for 2004 is 160% of his base salary. For 2004, Mr. Cherkasky received a
pro-rata portion of his annual salary and bonus of $373,965 and $600,000,
respectively.
Under the employment agreement, in connection with his initial employment,
Mr. Cherkasky also received a retention grant of MMC restricted stock units
(66,719 units) having a fair market value on the date of grant of $3,000,000.
The restricted stock units will vest on the fourth anniversary of the date of
grant.
Other Matters
The Committee has been involved in a number of other executive employment
and compensation matters related to the impact on MMC of the New York State
Attorney General's investigation and lawsuit. This includes work by the
Committee evaluating the status of executives who have resigned or terminated
employment and the nature of any related separation arrangements.
The Committee has also discussed how current and new incentive vehicles,
together with the use of employment agreements, could be structured in the short
term and, more broadly, over the long-term, to enhance retention of key
employees and to provide appropriate motivation and rewards in a balanced
fashion. The Committee, together with its independent compensation consultant
and MMC management, has taken a number of steps to address this. It is expected
that this work will continue in 2005.
Special Retention Awards: Immediate business priorities formed the basis
for retention awards to certain key employees in Marsh, Mercer and Putnam, based
on recommendations from MMC and operating company management. Retention awards
were intended to stabilize the businesses, retain key personnel and offer
near-term incentives in light of the environment and business needs.
The Committee has availed itself of an independent compensation consultant
and legal counsel to advise on these matters and related longer term issues.
Conclusion
MMC faced extraordinary challenges in 2004. These challanges put unique
demands on the frequency, nature and prominence of the Committee's work. The
Committee addressed critical immediate compensation, organizational and
management issues while taking the initial steps with management to create
long-term compensation programs that reflect MMC's situation as a changed
company with new business imperatives and performance expectations.
Submitted by the Compensation Committee
of the MMC Board of Directors
Lewis W. Bernard The Rt. Hon. Lord Lang of Monkton, DL
Robert F. Erburu Morton O. Schapiro
Oscar Fanjul
25
Stock Performance Graph
The following graph compares MMC's cumulative total stockholder return
(rounded to the nearest whole dollar) on its stock, the Standard & Poor's 500
Stock Index and a company-constructed composite industry index, consisting of
Aon Corporation, Arthur J. Gallagher & Co., Franklin Resources, Inc. and T. Rowe
Price Group, Inc., over the five-year period from December 31, 1999 through
December 31, 2004.
[LINE CHART OMITTED]
1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004
MMC 100 124 117 102 110 78
S&P 500 100 91 80 62 80 89
Composite Industry Index 100 110 107 84 122 149
Assumes $100 invested at the closing price on December 31, 1999 with
dividends reinvested on the date of payment without commissions. This table does
not forecast future performance of MMC common stock.
26
TRANSACTIONS WITH MANAGEMENT AND OTHERS; OTHER INFORMATION
From time to time, in the ordinary course of business and on commercial
terms, MMC and its subsidiaries may provide services to, or in connection with
transactions involving, investment funds and their portfolio companies managed
or advised by MMC Capital, in which various executive officers and directors of
MMC have direct or indirect interests. Such services include:
o acting as an insurance or reinsurance broker;
o consulting;
o transaction advisory services; or
o investment management.
A portion of the fees received by MMC Capital from portfolio companies for
transaction, management or other advisory services is dedicated to the LTIP pool
described in footnote 5 to "Compensation of Executive Officers--Summary
Compensation Table".
The aggregate amount received for all such services rendered in 2004 by MMC
and its subsidiaries was approximately $18.7 million. This amount predominantly
consists of insurance brokerage and related payments made by portfolio companies
to MMC subsidiaries relating to insurance and reinsurance placements with such
insurers in the normal course of business.
On February 28, 2005, MMC signed a non-binding letter of intent providing
for the transfer of MMC Capital's business, including the management of the
Trident Funds, to a company to be formed by MMC Capital's senior management,
including its chairman and chief executive officer, Charles A. Davis. Mr. Davis
is currently an executive officer of MMC. The transfer is expected to close by
the end of the second quarter 2005. Following the closing of the transaction,
Mr. Davis will no longer be an executive officer of MMC. As part of the
transaction, MMC will cease to have any role in decisions related to the
investment or disposition of investments in the funds. In addition, MMC will
enter into a strategic alliance agreement with the acquisition company pursuant
to which MMC will remain a resource to the acquisition company for the remainder
of the investment period of Trident III in connection with the fund's pursuit of
certain investment opportunities. Under the terms of the letter, management of
MMC determined to transfer certain assets of the business in exchange for
approximately $3.2 million, the net asset value as of December 31, 2004. The
purchase price is subject to certain pre-closing adjustments. The purchase price
may be deferred for up to twelve months and any deferred amount will accrue
interest at one-year LIBOR as of the closing date plus 200 basis points. MMC
will retain its existing carried interest in Trident II equal to 10% of the
profit generated by the fund, subject to the achievement of the required minimum
return for the limited partners in the fund. For Trident III, MMC will reduce
its capital commitment to the fund as a limited partner from $298 million to
$200 million and will reduce its carried interest from 10% to 5% of the profit
generated by the fund, also subject to achievement of the required minimum
return for the limited partners in the fund. The reduction of carried interest
for Trident III will be allocated to the investment team of the acquisition
company including a portion to Mr. Davis, who currently is entitled to 1.75% of
the profit generated by Trident III pursuant to his carried interest allocation
in the fund. MMC has agreed to sublease to the acquisition vehicle 12,881 square
feet of space for approximately 9 1/2 years at a gross annual cost of $55 per
square foot. The LTIP and carried interest arrangements will not be terminated
in connection with the proposed transfer of the MMC Capital business and will be
modified for Trident III as noted above; however, employees of MMC Capital who
transfer to the acquisition vehicle will waive any accelerated vesting or
payment under the LTIP and the carried interest arrangements. For purposes of
other outstanding employee equity awards and benefits held by employees of MMC
Capital who transfer to the acquisition vehicle, they will be treated as having
been involuntarily terminated without cause or, for eligible employees, as
having elected early retirement.
On February 26, 2005, Salvatore D. Zaffino, chairman and chief executive
officer of Guy Carpenter & Co., Inc., was made an executive officer of MMC. Mr.
Zaffino's son, Peter Zaffino, is a managing director of Guy Carpenter and earned
$570,000 in salary and bonus in 2004, plus certain other stock options and
awards that vest over a number of years. Peter Zaffino also received a retention
award in late 2004 of $270,000, payable quarterly throughout 2005 in either cash
or MMC stock at the Company's discretion. Mr. Garrett Benton, son-in-law of
Salvatore D. Zaffino and a vice president of Guy Carpenter, earned $103,833 in
salary and bonus in 2004.
27
Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance
Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 requires MMC's
directors and executive officers, and persons who own more than ten percent of
the common stock of MMC, to file with the SEC and the New York Stock Exchange
initial reports of beneficial ownership and reports of changes in beneficial
ownership of MMC stock. Such persons are also required by SEC regulation to
furnish MMC with copies of all Section 16(a) forms they file. To MMC's
knowledge, based solely on a review of the copies of such reports furnished to
MMC and written representations that no other reports were required, during 2004
all Section 16(a) filing requirements applicable to such individuals were
complied with, except for one report covering one transaction filed late by Mr.
Charles E. Haldeman, and two reports covering two transactions filed late by Mr.
Robert J. Rapport.
ITEM 2
RATIFICATION OF SELECTION OF
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
The Audit Committee has recommended the selection of Deloitte & Touche LLP
as our independent registered public accounting firm for the 2005 fiscal year,
subject to stockholder ratification. Deloitte & Touche will audit our
consolidated financial statements for fiscal 2005 and perform other services.
Deloitte & Touche acted as MMC's independent registered public accounting firm
for the year ended December 31, 2004. A Deloitte & Touche representative will be
present at the meeting, and will have an opportunity to make a statement and to
answer your questions.
The affirmative vote of a majority of the shares of MMC stock present or
represented and entitled to vote at the annual stockholders meeting is required
to ratify the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP. Unless otherwise directed in
the proxy, the persons named in the proxy will vote FOR the ratification of
Deloitte & Touche LLP. The board recommends you vote FOR this proposal.
Fees of Independent Registered Public
Accounting Firm
For the fiscal years ended December 31, 2004 and 2003, fees for services
provided by Deloitte & Touche LLP, the member firms of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu
and their respective affiliates were as follows:
Fees 2004 2003
--------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------
Audit Fees for the audit of MMC's annual financial statements,
the audit of the effectiveness of MMC's controls over financial
reporting and reviews of the financial statements included in MMC's
quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, including services in connection
with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements.................... $15,450,000 $9,675,000
Audit-Related Fees, including fees for audits of employee benefit
plans, computer and control related audit services, agreed-upon
procedures, merger and acquisition assistance and other accounting
research services....................................................... $5,485,000 $3,680,000
Tax Fees for tax consulting and compliance services not related
to the audit............................................................ $1,465,000 $1,395,000
All Other Fees.......................................................... $ -- $ --
28
The Audit Committee has adopted a policy regarding pre-approval of audit
and non-audit services provided by Deloitte & Touche LLP to MMC and its
subsidiaries. The policy provides the guidelines necessary to adhere to MMC's
commitment to auditor independence and compliance with relevant laws,
regulations and guidelines relating to auditor independence. The policy contains
a list of prohibited non-audit services, and sets forth four categories of
permitted services (Audit, Audit-Related, Tax and Other), listing the types of
permitted services in each category. All of the permitted services require
pre-approval by the Committee. In lieu of Audit Committee pre-approval on an
engagement-by-engagement basis, each category of permitted services, with
reasonable detail as to the types of services contemplated, is pre-approved as
part of the annual budget approval by the Audit Committee. Permitted services
not contemplated during the budget process must be presented to the Audit
Committee for approval prior to the commencement of the relevant engagement. The
Audit Committee chair, or, if he is not available, any other member of the
Committee, may grant approval for any such engagement if approval is required
prior to the next scheduled meeting of the Committee. At least twice a year, the
Audit Committee is presented with a report showing amounts billed by the
independent auditor compared to the budget approvals for each of the categories
of permitted services. The Committee reviews the suitability of the pre-approval
policy at least annually.
AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT
The primary function of the Audit Committee is to assist the board of
directors in its oversight of MMC's financial reporting process. The Committee
operates pursuant to a charter approved by the MMC board. Management is
responsible for MMC's financial statements, the overall reporting process and
the system of internal control, including internal control over financial
reporting. The independent registered public accounting firm ("independent
auditors") is responsible for conducting annual audits and quarterly reviews of
MMC's financial statements and expressing an opinion as to the conformity of the
annual financial statements with generally accepted accounting principles in the
United States of America and expressing an opinion on management's annual
assessment of internal control over financial reporting.
In the performance of its oversight function, the Committee has reviewed
and discussed the audited financial statements as of and for the year ended
December 31, 2004 with management and the independent auditors. The Committee
has also discussed with the independent auditors the matters required to be
discussed by Statement on Auditing Standards No. 61, Communication with Audit
Committees. Finally, the Committee has received the written disclosures and the
letter from the independent auditors required by Independence Standards Board
Standard No. 1, Independence Discussions with Audit Committees, has considered
whether the provision of other non-audit services by the independent auditors to
the Company is compatible with maintaining the independent auditor's
independence and has discussed with the independent auditors the auditors'
independence.
It is not the duty or responsibility of the Committee to conduct auditing
or accounting reviews or procedures. In performing their oversight
responsibility, members of the Committee rely without independent verification
on the information provided to them, and on the representations made, by
management and the independent accountants. Accordingly, the Audit Committee's
oversight does not provide an independent basis to determine that management has
maintained appropriate accounting and financial reporting principles or
appropriate internal controls and procedures designed to assure compliance with
accounting standards and applicable laws and regulations. Furthermore, the Audit
Committee's considerations and discussions do not assure that the audit of MMC's
financial statements has been carried out in accordance with generally accepted
auditing standards or that the financial statements are presented in accordance
with generally accepted accounting principles.
29
Based upon the review and discussions described in this report, and subject
to the limitations on the role and responsibilities of the Committee referred to
above and in the charter, the Committee recommended to the board that the
audited financial statements referred to above be included in MMC's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004 to be filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission.
Submitted by the Audit Committee
of the MMC Board of Directors
Zachary W. Carter Gwendolyn S. King
Oscar Fanjul David A. Olsen
Stephen R. Hardis Adele Simmons
30
ITEM 3
PROPOSAL TO APPROVE THE AMENDMENT OF MMC'S EQUITY
COMPENSATION PLANS TO PERMIT AN EXCHANGE OF CERTAIN OPTIONS
The board of directors proposes that the Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc.
2000 Senior Executive Incentive and Stock Award Plan and the Marsh & McLennan
Companies, Inc. 2000 Employee Incentive and Stock Award Plan, and any applicable
predecessor plans (collectively, the "Plans") be amended to expressly permit a
one-time voluntary exchange of certain deeply underwater outstanding stock
options for new options covering fewer shares.
Introduction
After careful consideration, the board of directors has determined that it
would be in the best interests of MMC and its stockholders to offer certain
current employees the opportunity to exchange certain deeply underwater
outstanding stock options for new options covering fewer shares.
The proposed stock option exchange program (which we also refer to as the
exchange offer) will reduce the number of shares subject to options because
participating employees will receive new options representing the right to
purchase fewer shares, and shares underlying the tendered options that are not
subject to new options granted under the exchange offer will be cancelled and
not be re-available for future awards. The new options will have an exercise
price equal to the fair market value of MMC's common stock as of the grant date
of the new options. The number of shares underlying the new options is based on
the exchange ratios described below.
MMC's compensation philosophy is intended to attract, retain and motivate
employees using an appropriate mix and levels of cash and equity compensation.
Stock options are an important part of the compensation program for our
employees. In that, they can advance the interests of MMC and its stockholders
by providing mutuality of interest between employees and stockholders.
MMC's stock price decline has posed a major challenge to the overall goal
of retaining and motivating employees-those employees whom the Company and
stockholders rely upon to move the Company forward. Most of the stock options
that were granted in recent years now have exercise prices significantly higher
than the current trading price of MMC's common stock and, as such, are
ineffective as retention or incentive tools for future performance. As of March
21, 2005, there were outstanding options to purchase an aggregate of over 86
million shares of MMC's common stock, with exercise prices ranging from $13.09
to $62.33. Of these options, approximately 75% are 25% or more underwater, based
on the fair market value of MMC's common stock as of that date.
The magnitude of this problem weakens significantly the effectiveness of
the Company's long-term incentive program and detracts from the effectiveness of
overall compensation.
The exchange offer has been designed with the objectives of reinforcing the
retention and motivation value of the options and balancing the interests of
employees and stockholders. Wherever possible, we have incorporated market "best
practices" to address the key concerns of stockholders. These include:
o The exchange offer is designed to reduce the overall number of shares
subject to options.
o MMC's most senior executive officers will not be eligible to participate in
the exchange offer.
o Only outstanding stock options underwater by 25% or more will be eligible
for the exchange offer.
o Exchange ratios will be set with the intention that each new stock
option would have a value that is equal to 90% of the Black-Scholes
value of the exchanged stock option.
o New vesting requirements will reinforce employee retention and ensure
that those who are to benefit from future gains will remain with the
Company through the next few critical years.
o The term of the new options will be identical to the remaining term of the
exchanged options.
Description of Stock Option Exchange Offer
Offer to Exchange Options. Under the proposed exchange offer, eligible
employees will be given the opportunity to exchange their eligible stock options
for new options representing the right to purchase fewer shares. If the
amendments
31
permitting the exchange offer are approved by stockholders at the annual
stockholders meeting, we intend to initiate the exchange offer shortly
thereafter, meaning that we would expect to grant the new options no later than
July 1, 2005, subject to any legal requirements in non-U.S. jurisdictions
affecting participation in the exchange offer. The Compensation Committee
reserves the right to exclude from the exchange offer the optionholders in any
jurisdiction in which participation in the exchange offer is not practicable
under the laws of such jurisdiction.
Participation in the exchange offer will be voluntary, with any election to
participate made on a grant-by-grant basis.
Eligible Employees. The exchange offer generally will be open to current
employees who hold eligible options (as described in the next paragraph),
including employees of our subsidiaries, other than our most senior executives.
All of our current named executive officers, as well as any current or former
executive officers covered by Section 16 under the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 ("Section 16") prior to 2005 will be excluded from the exchange offer.
Executive officers who became subject to Section 16 in 2005 will be eligible to
participate in the exchange offer. Up to 5,000 employees will be eligible to
participate.
Eligible Options. The options eligible for exchange will be outstanding
options granted by MMC under the Plans to eligible employees that are at least
25% underwater, based on the fair market value of MMC's common stock as of a
date shortly before commencement of the exchange offer.
As of March 21, 2005, the market price of MMC's common stock was $30.59 per
share. At that price, only options with an exercise price of $40.79 or greater
would be eligible for the exchange.
Exchange Ratio. Each eligible option tendered for exchange will be
exchanged for new option representing the right to purchase that number of
shares of MMC common stock such that the new option would have a Black-Scholes
value equal to 90% of the Black-Scholes value of the tendered option, based on
the fair market value of MMC's common stock as of a date shortly before
commencement of the exchange offer. Black-Scholes is a widely recognized and
accepted option valuation methodology that provides an estimate of what an
outside investor would be willing to pay for an option with similar terms.
Because the values are estimates, actual gains could be higher or lower based on
actual stock price performance. The Compensation Committee will utilize its
independent compensation consultant to establish the Black-Scholes values used
in determining the exchange ratios.
Exchange ratios will vary based on the exercise price and remaining term of
the tendered option, as well as the fair market value of MMC's common stock as
of a date shortly before commencement of the exchange offer. The following table
identifies exchange ratios for most of the options granted between 1999 and
2004, under a range of values for MMC common stock.
Illustrative Exchange Ratios (Number of
Shares Underlying Tendered Options
for Each Share Underlying a New Option)
By Grant Year (Exercise Price)
Fair Market -----------------------------------------------------
Value of MMC 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004
Common Stock ($37.77) ($43.63) ($46.10) ($56.00) ($42.99) ($46.14)
-------------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
$26.00 2.7 3.4 3.3 4.5 2.3 2.4
$28.00 2.2 2.8 2.8 3.7 2.0 2.1
$30.00 n/a 2.4 2.4 3.2 1.8 1.9
$32.00 n/a 2.0 2.1 2.8 1.6 1.7
$34.00 n/a n/a 1.8 2.5 n/a 1.6
Depending on the fair market value of MMC's common stock, and assuming that
all eligible options are tendered for exchange, we anticipate that new options
representing the right to purchase between approximately 18 million and 29
million shares of MMC common stock will be granted.
Exercise Price of New Options. All new options will have an exercise price
equal to the fair market value of MMC's common stock as of the new grant date.
Vesting of New Options. The new options will be unvested when they are
granted and will vest on the later of the second anniversary of the new option
grant date or the vesting date of the tendered option.
Term of New Options. Each new option will have the same remaining term as
the option tendered for exchange.
Other Terms and Conditions of New Options. The other terms and conditions
of the new options will be substantially similar to those of the tendered
options they replace. The new options will be granted under the Plans and will
be
32
nonqualified stock options for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Shares Available for New Awards. Under the existing terms of the Plans, all
shares underlying outstanding options would become re-available for future
awards. However, under the option exchange proposal, the shares underlying
outstanding options tendered for exchange that are not subject to new options
granted under the exchange will not become re-available for future awards under
the Plans. This aspect of the proposed option exchange program is designed to
reduce the potential dilutive effect of the Plans on stockholders' interests.
Implementation of the Stock Option Exchange Offer. The board of directors
authorized the option exchange offer on February 26, 2005, subject to approval
by our stockholders of the amendments to the Plans. If stockholders approve the
amendments to the Plans to allow the exchange offer, eligible employees will be
offered the opportunity to participate in the exchange offer under an Offer to
Exchange filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and distributed to
all eligible employees. Employees will be given a period of at least 20 business
days in which to accept the offer. For those employees who accept the offer,
their eligible options will be cancelled immediately after the offer period
expires. The new options will be granted immediately after the period expires.
If the Plan amendments permitting the exchange offer are approved by
stockholders at the annual meeting, we intend to initiate the exchange offer
shortly thereafter, meaning that we would expect to grant the new options no
later than July 1, 2005, subject to any legal requirements in foreign
jurisdictions affecting the timing of grants in those jurisdictions.
Accounting Treatment. We plan to adopt Statement of Financial Accounting
Standards No. 123 (revised 2004) Share-Based Payment ("FAS 123(R)") no later
than July 1, 2005. From the date of the offer until MMC's adoption of FAS
123(R), the options eligible for exchange will be subject to variable
accounting. There will be no compensation charges against our earnings unless
the price of MMC stock exceeds the exercise price of options subject to the
exchange offer prior to MMC's adoption of FAS 123(R). As of the date of MMC's
adoption of FAS 123(R), MMC will no longer incur such variable accounting.
The illustrative exchange ratios shown above were calculated using the
following Black-Scholes assumptions: dividend yield of 2.19%, expected
volatility of 25%, expected life equal to the full remaining term of each
applicable option and a risk-free interest rate based on the remaining terms of
each of these options. The expected volatility was determined based on the new
requirements of FAS 123(R).
U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences. We expect that the option exchange
will be treated as a non-taxable event for U.S. federal income tax purposes. No
income should be recognized for U.S. federal income tax purposes by us or our
optionholders upon the cancellation of the existing options or the grant of the
replacement options.
Since all new options will be non-qualified stock options, the
optionholder, upon exercise of the option, will recognize ordinary income in the
amount equal to the excess of the then fair market value of the stock acquired
over the exercise price of the option. MMC may deduct the amount of such
ordinary income recognized by the optionholder.
New Plan Benefits
Because the decision of our employees to participate in the exchange offer
will be completely voluntary, we are not able to predict who will participate or
how many options will be tendered for exchange. Members of the board of
directors hold no options and will not participate in the exchange offer. As
previously stated, our most senior executives, including all of our current
named executive officers, as well as any current or former executive officers
covered by Section 16 prior to 2005, will not be eligible to participate in the
exchange offer. Executive officers who became subject to Section 16 in 2005 will
be eligible to participate in the exchange offer.
33
The following tables approximate, for a range of prices of MMC's common
stock, the maximum number of shares underlying options that would be cancelled
and the maximum number of shares underlying the new options that would be
granted for eligible executive officers and for the non-executive officers as a
group, assuming all eligible options are tendered for exchange:
Executive Group
Number of
Number of Shares Underlying
Shares Underlying New Options
Fair Market Value of Options Eligible (assuming
MMC Common Stock for Exchange Offer 100% Participation)
-------------------- ------------------ -------------------
$26.00 717,000 247,000
$28.00 717,000 289,000
$30.00 693,000 314,000
$32.00 693,000 357,000
$34.00 423,000 219,000
Non-Executive Officer Employee Group
Number of
Number of Shares Underlying
Shares Underlying New Options
Fair Market Value of Options Eligible (assuming
MMC Common Stock for Exchange Offer 100% Participation)
-------------------- ------------------ -------------------
$26.00 67,000,000 22,000,000
$28.00 67,000,000 26,000,000
$30.00 58,000,000 25,000,000
$32.00 58,000,000 29,000,000
$34.00 35,000,000 17,000,000
Effect on Stockholders
We are not able to predict with any degree of certainty the impact the
exchange offer will have on your rights as a stockholder because we are unable
to predict how many optionholders will exchange their options or what the future
market price of MMC's common stock will be. The exchange offer has been
structured to be economically beneficial to stockholders by replacing
outstanding options representing the right to purchase a larger number of shares
with new options representing the right to purchase fewer shares and by setting
exchange ratios so that the new options have a lower Black-Scholes value than
the tendered options. The exchange offer has been structured to reduce the
number of shares subject to options under the Plans because any net shares not
subject to new options granted under the exchange offer will be cancelled and
not available for future grants under the Plans.
There is a risk that employees will not see the stock option exchange offer
as a sufficient incentive to motivate and retain them. Also, should the price of
the Company's stock rise, the likelihood of the new options being exercised and
increasing dilution is greater than is the case with previously granted options.
Even if options are not exercised, outstanding options with exercise prices
lower than MMC's stock price may have a negative effect on our earnings per
share calculation.
A table setting forth information, as of December 31, 2004, about MMC stock
currently authorized for issuance under our equity compensation plans is
attached to this proxy statement as Appendix B.
Proposed Plan Amendments
The proposed amendments to the Plans will expressly permit a voluntary
exchange of certain outstanding options for new options and prohibit exchanges
thereafter, unless stockholder approval is obtained. We are asking stockholders
to approve these amendments so that we can, on a one-time basis, implement this
option exchange offer for the reasons previously described.
The board of directors recommends a vote FOR this proposal.
34
ITEM 4
STOCKHOLDER PROPOSAL: CEO COMPENSATION
The Catholic Equity Fund, 1100 West Wells Street, Milwaukee, WI 53233,
beneficial owner of 1,540 shares; Christus Health, 2600 North Loop West,
Houston, TX 77092, beneficial owner of 9,500 shares; and the Congregation of the
Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, 6510 Lawndale, Houston, TX 77223,
beneficial owner of more than 100 shares, have notified the Company that they
intend to co-sponsor the following proposal at the annual meeting.
Resolved: The shareholders urge the Board of Directors:
o To limit the Compensation paid to the CEO in any fiscal year to no more
than 100 times the average Compensation paid to the company's
Non-Managerial Workers in the prior fiscal year, unless the shareholders
have approved paying the CEO a greater amount;
o In any proposal for shareholder approval, to provide that the CEO can
receive more than the 100-times amount only if the company achieves one or
more goals that would mainly reflect the CEO's contributions rather than
general market conditions; and
o In that proposal, to assure the shareholders that the Board will seriously
consider reducing the CEO's compensation in the event of any unusual
reduction in the company's workforce resulting from outsourcing or other
factors.
This proposal does not apply to the extent that complying would necessarily
breach a compensation agreement in effect at the time of the present shareholder
meeting.
"Compensation" means salary, bonus, the grant-date present value of stock
options, the grant-date present value of restricted stock, payments under
long-term incentive plans, and "other annual" and "all other compensation" as
those categories are defined for proxy statement purposes.
"Non-Managerial Workers" means U.S.-based employees working in the
categories of Blue-Collar Occupations or Service Occupations or the Sales and
Administrative Support components of White-Collar Occupations as used by the
Bureau of Labor Statistics in its National Compensation Surveys.
Shareholder Supporting Statement: Our resolution is based on these
premises:
1. Unless internally anchored, market-based compensation methods tend to
produce excessive CEO compensation;
2. Very high CEO pay should require shareholder approval since it tends
to produce sub par share performance long-term; and
3. Very highly paid CEOs should realize that they might share some pain
when choosing job reductions as a means to achieve corporate goals.
Our resolution would introduce an internal foundation for CEO
compensation--the company's CEO/average-worker pay ratio. Commentators note that
on the average for U.S. companies this ratio has gone from about 42 in 1980 to
several hundred today and that it tends to be much lower in foreign companies
that compete successfully with U.S. companies. Consistent with these facts, the
Blue Ribbon Commission of the National Association of Corporate Directors has
urged compensation committees to use such a ratio as a factor in setting CEO
compensation. Our resolution follows this advice.
Our resolution would not arbitrarily limit CEO compensation. Rather, it
would offer the board the opportunity to persuade the shareholders that very
high CEO compensation would make the company more competitive and would be in
their interest.
At Marsh & McLennan, CEO Compensation in 2001, 2002, and 2003 was 17.6,
24.7, and 27.9 million dollars. The 2003 Compensation was 1,095 times the
$25,501 that the average U.S. worker makes according to the AFL-CIO's Executive
Paywatch (http://www.aflcio.org/corporateamerica/paywatch/). In its 2004
analysis of executive pay versus shareholder return, Business
Week gave the CEO its second worst rating
(http://www.businessweek.com/pdfs/2004/0416_execpay.pdf).
35
The Board of Directors recommends that you vote AGAINST the proposal for the
following reasons:
The Compensation Committee, which is comprised entirely of independent
directors, evaluates the performance and determines the compensation of MMC's
CEO. The Board believes that MMC's existing executive compensation policies,
procedures and practices, as applied by the Compensation Committee, ensure that
compensation for the CEO and other executives is both fair and competitive.
As explained in more detail in the Compensation Committee report beginning
on page 22 of this proxy statement, the Compensation Committee seeks to enable
MMC to attract, retain and motivate the most highly qualified and capable
professionals to lead the organization's businesses. MMC's compensation program
for its key senior executives, including the CEO, balances annual and long-term
incentives and rewards that are designed to support business strategies, to
enhance the achievement of financial objectives and to reflect marketplace
practices and dynamics.
In making decisions regarding the CEO's compensation, the Compensation
Committee considers MMC's current and long-term financial performance, as well
as the CEO's influence on MMC's strategic direction and long-term strength,
together with his broader leadership responsibilities. The board of directors
believes that these criteria provide a more appropriate basis for determining
CEO compensation than the arbitrary parameters suggested in the proposal.
The Compensation Committee reviews CEO compensation regularly. In 2003,
despite MMC's and the former CEO's overall positive performance, the
Compensation Committee considered adverse effects of events at Putnam and
reduced the former CEO's annual incentive award by $1 million compared to the
prior year.
The proposal would require that the parameters of CEO compensation be set
by arbitrary internal limits. However, in seeking to attract and retain the most
highly qualified leadership for MMC, the Compensation Committee must take into
account the external market for such talent. Thus, the exercise of setting the
composition and level of CEO compensation necessarily includes consideration of
general marketplace trends. The Compensation Committee utilizes an independent
compensation consulting firm to evaluate the CEO's compensation relative to
selected comparable corporations with which MMC competes for executive talent.
The proposal introduces operational complexity and potential limitations
and delays that could disadvantage MMC relative to competitors. For example, the
Compensation Committee would either have to wait until the next annual
stockholders' meeting or convene a special stockholders' meeting to seek
stockholder approval in order to pay any CEO compensation above the proposed
arbitrary limit.
Also, by linking a possible reduction in CEO compensation to reductions in
MMC's workforce, the proposal restricts the CEO's management of MMC's businesses
and does not necessarily align the interests of the CEO and the stockholders. If
a reduction in MMC's workforce were in the best interests of MMC and its
stockholders, the board of directors and the Compensation Committee would weigh
this and other performance measures in evaluating MMC's performance and the
CEO's effectiveness.
36
ITEM 5
STOCKHOLDER PROPOSAL: STOCK OPTION POLICY
The Sheet Metal Workers' National Pension Fund, 601 N. Fairfax Street,
Suite 500, Alexandria, VA 22314, beneficial owner of approximately 16,100
shares, has notified the Company that it intends to present the following
proposal at the annual meeting.
Resolved: That the shareholders of Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. (the
"Company") request that the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors
adopt a policy that a significant portion of future stock option grants to
senior executives shall be performance-based. Performance-based options are
defined as follows: (1) indexed options, in which the exercise price is linked
to an industry or well-defined peer group index; (2) premium-priced stock
options, in which the exercise price is set above the market price on the grant
date; or (3) performance-vesting options, which vest when a performance target
is met.
Shareholder Supporting Statement: As long-term shareholders of the Company,
we support executive compensation policies and practices that provide
challenging performance objectives and serve to motivate executives to enhance
long-term corporate value. We believe that standard fixed-price stock option
grants can and often do provide levels of compensation well beyond those
merited, by reflecting stock market value increases, not performance superior to
the company's peer group.
Our shareholder proposal advocates performance-based stock options in the
form of indexed, premium-priced or performance-vesting stock options. With
indexed options, the option exercise price moves with an appropriate peer group
index so as to provide compensation value only to the extent that the company's
stock price performance is superior to the companies in the peer group utilized.
Premium-priced options entail the setting of an option exercise price above the
exercise price used for standard fixed-priced options so as to provide value for
stock price performance that exceeds the premium option price.
Performance-vesting options encourage strong corporate performance by
conditioning the vesting of granted options on the achievement of demanding
stock and/or operational performance measures.
Our shareholder proposal requests that the Company's Compensation Committee
utilize one or more varieties of performance-based stock options in constructing
the long-term equity portion of the senior executives' compensation plan. The
use of performance-based options, to the extent they represent a significant
portion of the total options granted to senior executives, will help place a
strong emphasis on rewarding superior corporate performance and the achievement
of demanding performance goals.
Leading investors and market observers, such as Warren Buffet and Alan
Greenspan, have criticized the use of fixed-price options on the grounds that
they all too often reward mediocre or poor performance. The Conference Board's
Commission on Public Trust and Private Enterprise in 2002 looked at the issue of
executive compensation and endorsed the use of performance-based options to help
restore public confidence in the markets and U.S. corporations.
At present, the Company does not employ performance-based stock options as
defined in this proposal, so shareholders cannot be assured that only superior
performance is being rewarded. Performance-based options can be an important
component of a compensation plan designed to focus senior management on
accomplishing long-term corporate strategic goals and superior long-term
corporate performance. We urge your support for this important executive
compensation reform.
The Board of Directors recommends that you vote AGAINST the proposal for
the following reasons:
The board of directors believes that adoption of this proposal would reduce
the Compensation Committee's discretion regarding equity compensation awards.
The Compensation Committee, which is comprised entirely of independent
directors, supports and utilizes performance-based compensation policies and
practices that can serve to motivate executives to enhance long-term corporate
value. MMC's compensation program for executive officers has several components,
including long-term incentives. MMC's stock options generally vest over four
years, which imposes a long-
37
term focus on MMC's performance. Another component of MMC's equity compensation
program has been long-term restricted stock that vests in the year following
completion of 10 years of service from the grant date, with no annual
incremental vesting. Equity compensation awards under MMC's executive long-term
compensation program are granted based on both company and individual
performance, including MMC's overall operations and the executive officers'
relative contribution to their particular business segments.
The Compensation Committee reviews the composition of executive officer
equity compensation on an ongoing basis and utilizes an independent compensation
consulting firm, as necessary, to assist in formulating effective and
competitive equity compensation programs.
The Compensation Committee should have the flexibility to make equity
grants in a form and with such terms as are most appropriate to each situation.
By limiting the Compensation Committee's ability to compensate executives in
ways it deems appropriate, the proposal would hinder MMC's ability to attract,
retain and motivate the most highly qualified and capable executives.
Furthermore, the proposal would put MMC at a competitive disadvantage in a
market for talent that includes both public corporations and privately-held
firms that offer attractive equity ownership opportunities.
38
ITEM 6
STOCKHOLDER PROPOSAL: DIRECTOR ELECTION VOTING STANDARD
The United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America Pension Fund,
101 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20001, beneficial owner of
approximately 8,500 shares, has notified the Company that it intends to present
the following proposal at the annual meeting.
Resolved: That the shareholders of Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc.
("Company") hereby request that the Board of Directors initiate the appropriate
process to amend the Company's governance documents (certificate of
incorporation or bylaws) to provide that director nominees shall be elected by
the affirmative vote of the majority of votes cast at an annual meeting of
shareholders.
Shareholder Supporting Statement: Our Company is incorporated in Delaware.
Among other issues, Delaware corporate law addresses the issue of the level of
voting support necessary for a specific action, such as the election of
corporate directors. Delaware law provides that a company's certificate of
incorporation or bylaws may specify the number of votes that shall be necessary
for the transaction of any business, including the election of directors. (DGCL,
Title 8, Chapter 1, Subchapter VII, Section 216). Further, the law provides that
if the level of voting support necessary for a specific action is not specified
in the certificate of incorporation or bylaws of the corporation, directors
"shall be elected by a plurality of the votes of the shares present in person or
represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote on the election of
directors."
Our Company presently uses the plurality vote standard for the election of
directors. We feel that it is appropriate and timely for the Board to initiate a
change in the Company's director election vote standard. Specifically, this
shareholder proposal urges that the Board of Directors initiate a change to the
director election vote standard to provide that in director elections a majority
vote standard will be used in lieu of the Company's current plurality vote
standard. Specifically, the new standard should provide that nominees for the
board of directors must receive a majority of the vote cast in order to be
elected or re-elected to the Board.
Under the Company's current plurality vote standard, a director nominee in
a director election can be elected or re-elected with as little as a single
affirmative vote, even while a substantial majority of the votes cast are
"withheld" from that director nominee. So even if 99.99% of the shares
"withhold" authority to vote for a candidate or all the candidates, a 0.01%
"for" vote results in the candidate's election or re-election to the board. The
proposed majority vote standard would require that a director receive a majority
of the vote cast in order to be elected to the Board.
It is our contention that the proposed majority vote standard for corporate
board elections is a fair standard that will strengthen the Company's governance
and the Board. Our proposal is not intended to limit the judgment of the Board
in crafting the requested governance change. For instance, the Board should
address the status of incumbent directors who fail to receive a majority vote
when standing for re-election under a majority vote standard or whether a
plurality director election standard is appropriate in contested elections.
We urge your support of this important director election reform.
The Board of Directors recommends that you vote AGAINST the proposal for
the following reasons:
The board of directors believes that the plurality voting standard - which
is the standard used by the majority of public companies - is fair, democratic
and impartial and serves the best interests of MMC's stockholders. The majority
voting standard suggested by the proposal does not provide significant
advantages to MMC and its stockholders over the plurality voting standard.
MMC has a history of electing strong and independent boards. In the past
five years, through the plurality process, every director nominee has received
an affirmative vote greater than 74% of all shares represented at the annual
meeting. The outcome of our election process during the past five years would
not have been different if the proposed majority voting standard had been used.
Further, the board of directors is composed solely of independent directors,
with the exception of MMC's current CEO, Michael Cherkasky.
39
The board of directors is committed to good governance practices and has
implemented a number of measures (discussed elsewhere in this proxy statement)
to strengthen MMC's governance processes. MMC is always open to stockholder
input regarding potential directors and governance. As MMC's stockholders have a
history of electing qualified, independent directors under the current plurality
requirement, a change in the voting threshold is not necessary to improve MMC's
corporate governance processes. The board of directors believes that the quality
of MMC's directors has a far greater impact on MMC's governance than the voting
standard used to elect them.
The plurality voting standard for the election of directors is widely used
by publicly traded companies. It is the default standard under Delaware law and
is known to and understood by stockholders. The board of directors believes the
plurality standard provides a good mechanism for electing a board of directors
that is committed to delivering long-term stockholder value.
40
SUBMISSION OF FUTURE STOCKHOLDER PROPOSALS
Stockholders who wish to present a proposal and have it considered for
inclusion in MMC's proxy materials for the 2006 Annual Meeting of Stockholders
of MMC must submit such proposal in writing to MMC in care of the Secretary of
MMC on or before December 1, 2005.
Stockholders who wish to present a proposal at the 2006 Annual Meeting that
has not been included in MMC's proxy materials must submit such proposal in
writing to MMC in care of the Secretary of MMC. Any such proposal received by
the Secretary of MMC on or after February 19, 2006 shall be considered untimely
under the provisions of MMC's by-laws governing the presentation of proposals by
stockholders. In addition, the by-laws of MMC contain further requirements
relating to the timing and content of the notice which stockholders must provide
to the Secretary for any nomination or matter to be properly presented at a
stockholders meeting.
Such proposals should be addressed to:
Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc.
1166 Avenue of the Americas
New York, New York
10036-2774
Attn: Mr. William J. White,
Assistant Secretary
41
APPENDIX A
Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc.
Audit Committee Charter
(November 18, 2004)
Purpose of Committee
--------------------
The purpose of the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors of Marsh & McLennan
Companies, Inc. ("MMC") is to assist the Board in fulfilling its oversight
responsibilities with respect to (i) the integrity of MMC's financial
statements, (ii) the qualifications, independence and performance of MMC's
independent auditors, (iii) the performance of MMC's internal audit function,
(iv) compliance by MMC with legal and regulatory requirements and (v) the other
responsibilities set out herein.
While the Committee has the responsibilities and powers set forth in this
Charter, it is not the duty of the Committee to plan or conduct audits or to
determine that MMC's financial statements and disclosures are complete and
accurate and are in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and
applicable rules and regulations. These are the responsibilities of management
and the independent auditors. Furthermore, while the Committee is responsible
for reviewing MMC's policies and practices with respect to risk assessment and
management, it is the responsibility of the Chief Executive Officer and senior
management to assess and manage MMC's exposure to risk.
The Committee shall report to the Board on a regular basis.
Committee Membership
--------------------
The Committee shall be comprised of three or more directors. Members of the
Committee shall be recommended by the MMC Directors and Governance Committee and
be elected by the full Board. As determined in the business judgment of the
Board, each member of the Committee shall satisfy the independence and
experience requirements of the New York Stock Exchange and any other legal and
regulatory requirements and at least one member of the Committee shall have
accounting or related financial management expertise as defined by the New York
Stock Exchange.
Resources and Authority of the Committee
----------------------------------------
The Committee shall have the resources and authority appropriate to discharge
its duties and responsibilities, including full access to MMC employees and
officers and internal or external advisors or consultants. If, in the course of
fulfilling its duties, the Committee wishes to consult with outside legal,
accounting or other advisors, the Committee may retain these advisors without
seeking Board approval.
Committee Structure and Operations
----------------------------------
The Board shall designate one member of the Committee as its chair. The
Committee may meet in person or telephonically or act by unanimous written
consent. The Committee chair, in consultation with Committee members, shall
determine the schedule of meetings of the Committee (which meetings shall occur
at least quarterly). Further meetings shall occur, or matters be submitted for
action by unanimous written consent, when deemed necessary or desirable by the
Committee, its chair or the Chairman of MMC. The Committee is to meet
periodically in separate sessions with the chief financial officer (and/or other
management personnel), with internal audit and with the independent auditors as
the Committee deems necessary.
The Committee chair, who may consult with internal audit, management or other
Committee members, develops the agenda for Committee meetings. Where
practicable, materials should be distributed to Committee members prior to each
Committee meeting.
Delegation to Subcommittee
--------------------------
The Committee may delegate all or a portion of its duties and responsibilities
to a subcommittee or subcommittees of the Committee.
A-1
Attendance
----------
The Committee chair may invite such members of management, representatives of
the independent auditors and internal audit and other persons to the Committee's
meetings as he or she may deem desirable or appropriate.
Committee Duties and Responsibilities
-------------------------------------
A. Oversight of Independent Auditors and Audit Process:
1. The Committee shall have the sole authority to select (subject to
shareholder ratification), compensate, retain and oversee MMC's
independent auditors (including resolution of any disagreements
between management and the independent auditors regarding MMC's
financial reporting). The independent auditors shall report directly
to the Committee.
2. The Committee shall review and discuss with the independent auditors
the scope, staffing and general extent of the audit. The Committee's
review shall include an explanation from the independent auditors of
the factors considered by the auditors in determining the audit scope,
including the major risk factors. The independent auditors shall
confirm to the Committee that no inappropriate limitations have been
placed on the scope or nature of their audit procedures.
3. The Committee shall pre-approve all services, both audit and permitted
non-audit, to be performed for MMC by the independent auditors
pursuant to pre-approval policies and procedures established by the
Committee. In this regard, the Committee may delegate its authority to
pre-approve such services to one or more Committee members, provided
that any such approvals are presented to the full Committee at the
next scheduled Audit Committee meeting.
4. The Committee shall evaluate the independent auditors' qualifications,
performance and independence, including the consideration of the
independent auditors' quality controls and whether the provision of
permitted non-audit services is compatible with maintaining the
independent auditors' independence. The Committee's conclusions with
respect to the independent auditors shall be presented to the full
Board on at least an annual basis. As part of such evaluation, the
Committee shall specifically review and evaluate the qualifications
and rotation of the lead audit partner and shall review a report or
reports prepared at least annually by the independent auditors:
a. describing their internal quality control procedures, and
b. describing any material issues raised by (i) the most recent peer
or internal quality control review of the firm or (ii) by any
inquiry or investigation by governmental or professional
authorities, within the preceding five years, with respect to one
or more audits carried out by the firm and any steps taken to
deal with any such issues.
5. The Committee shall review a report or reports prepared at least
annually by the independent auditors describing all relationships
between the independent auditors and MMC and providing confirmations
with respect to the requirements of all applicable auditor
independence rules. The Committee shall discuss with the independent
auditors any disclosed relationships that may impact the objectivity
and independence of the independent auditors and, if necessary,
recommend appropriate action in response to the report.
6. The Committee shall discuss with management and internal audit their
views of the independent auditors' performance.
7. The Committee shall set policies for the hiring of current or former
employees of the independent auditors.
A-2
8. The Committee shall discuss with the independent auditors any audit
problems or difficulties and management's response thereto, and review
matters relating to the conduct of the audit required to be
communicated by the independent auditors by applicable auditing
standards, including:
a. any schedule of unadjusted differences,
b. the independent auditors' judgment about the quality of MMC's
accounting principles,
c. any restrictions on the scope of activities or access to
requested information, and
d. any significant disagreements with management.
9. The Committee shall review and discuss with the independent auditors
their views about the quality of MMC's financial and accounting
personnel.
B. Oversight of Financial Statements and Related Matters:
1. The Committee shall review and discuss as appropriate with management,
internal audit and the independent auditors, in separate meetings if
necessary:
a. The annual audited financial statements, including MMC's
disclosures under "Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations," and recommend to
the Board whether the audited financial statements should be
included in MMC's Form 10-K Report,
b. the quarterly financial statements, including MMC's disclosures
under "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations," prior to the filing of
MMC's Form 10-Q Reports, including the results of the independent
auditors' review of the quarterly financial statements,
c. MMC's policies generally with respect to earnings press releases
and with respect to financial information and earnings guidance
provided to analysts and rating agencies, including in each case
the type and presentation of information to be disclosed and
paying particular attention to the use of non-GAAP financial
information. The Committee or its chair may review any of MMC's
earnings press releases as the Committee or the chair deems
appropriate,
d. MMC's critical accounting policies and practices and any major
issues regarding accounting principles and financial statement
presentations, including any significant changes in MMC's
selection or application of accounting principles,
e. any analyses or other written communications prepared by
management, internal audit and/or the independent auditors
setting forth significant financial reporting issues and
judgments made in connection with the preparation of the
financial statements, including analyses of the effects of
alternative GAAP methods on the financial statements,
f. the effect of any off-balance sheet structures and regulatory and
accounting initiatives, including any SEC investigations or
proceedings, on MMC's financial statements,
g. disclosures made to the Audit Committee by MMC's Chief Executive
Officer and Chief Financial Officer in connection with their
certification process for the Form 10-K and Form 10-Q reports
about (i) any significant deficiencies in the design or operation
of internal controls over financial reporting and (ii) any fraud
involving management or other employees who have a significant
role in MMC's internal controls over financial reporting,
A-3
h. MMC's significant accounting and financial reporting controls,
any major issues as to the adequacy of MMC's internal controls
and procedures and any special steps adopted in light of material
deficiencies, and
i. MMC's annual internal controls report and the independent
auditor's attestation of the report prior to filing with MMC's
Form 10-K.
2. The Committee shall review MMC's policies and practices with respect
to risk assessment and risk management, including discussing with
management MMC's major financial risk exposures and the steps that
have been taken to monitor and control such exposures.
C. Oversight of Internal Audit Function:
1. The Committee shall evaluate at least annually the performance,
responsibilities, budget and staffing of MMC's internal audit function
and review the internal audit plan. The Committee shall also review of
the appointment and replacement of the senior internal audit
executive. Separately, the Committee shall review the
responsibilities, budget and staffing of MMC's internal audit function
with the independent auditors.
2. The Committee shall receive and review regular reports of major
findings by internal audit and how management is addressing the
conditions reported.
D. Oversight of Compliance and Regulatory Matters:
1. The Committee shall review MMC's Code of Ethics for Chief Executive
and Senior Financial Officers and MMC's Code of Business Conduct and
Ethics periodically (including compliance therewith) and report on
such compliance to the Board. The Committee shall be responsible for
overseeing waivers of such Codes for MMC Directors and senior
executive officers.
2. The Committee shall establish procedures for:
a. the receipt, retention and treatment of complaints received by
MMC regarding accounting, internal accounting controls or
auditing matters, and
b. the confidential, anonymous submission by MMC employees of
concerns regarding questionable accounting or auditing matters.
3. The Committee shall receive and review reports concerning legal and
regulatory matters, including significant regulatory agency
examinations that may have a material impact on the financial
statements.
E. Other Matters:
The Committee shall have any other appropriate duties or responsibilities
expressly delegated to the Committee by the Board.
Committee Report
----------------
The Committee shall prepare the audit committee report that Securities and
Exchange Commission rules require to be included in MMC's proxy statement.
Performance Evaluation
----------------------
The Committee shall annually (i) evaluate its own performance and (ii) review
and assess the adequacy of this charter.
A-4
APPENDIX B
Equity Compensation Plan Information Table
The following table sets forth information as of December 31, 2004, with
respect to compensation plans under which equity securities of MMC are
authorized for issuance:
(c) Number of securities
(a) Number of securities remaining available for
to be issued upon (b) Weighted- average future issuance under
exercise of outstanding exercise price of equity compensation plans
options, warrants outstanding options, (excluding securities
Plan category and rights (1)(2) warrants and rights (2) reflected in column (a))(2)
--------------------------------- ----------------------- ----------------------- ---------------------------
Equity compensation plans 20,984,390 $37.2723 45,347,560(3)
approved by stockholders.........
Equity compensation plans not 65,226,297 $45.1287 56,281,539(4)
approved by stockholders.........
Total............................ 86,210,687(5) $43.2164 101,629,099(5)
----------------------------
(1) This column reflects shares subject to unexercised options granted over the
last ten years under MMC's 2000 Senior Executive Incentive and Stock Award
Plan, 1997 Senior Executive Incentive and Stock Award Plan, 1992 Incentive
and Stock Award Plan, 2000 Employee Incentive and Stock Award Plan and 1997
Employee Incentive and Stock Award Plan. This column contains information
regarding stock options only; there are no warrants or stock appreciation
rights outstanding.
(2) The number of shares that may be issued at the close of current offering
periods under stock purchase plans, and the weighted-average exercise price
of such shares, is uncertain and is consequently not reflected in columns
(a) and (b). The number of shares to be purchased will depend on the amount
of contributions with interest accumulated under these plans as of the
close of the offering periods. The shares remaining available for future
issuance in column (c) includes any shares that may be acquired under all
current offering periods for these plans. See notes (3) and (4) below.
(3) Includes the following:
o 28,186,972 shares available for future awards under the 1999 Employee
Stock Purchase Plan, a stock purchase plan qualified under Section 423
of the Internal Revenue Code. Employees may acquire shares at a
discounted purchase price on four quarterly purchase dates within the
one-year offering period with the proceeds of their contributions plus
interest accumulated during the respective quarter. The purchase price
may be no less than 85% of the market price of the stock on the
purchase date.
o 3,774,881 shares that may be issued to settle outstanding restricted
stock unit, deferred stock unit and deferred bonus unit awards and
other deferred compensation obligations.
o 9,198,404 shares available for future awards under the 2000 Senior
Executive Incentive and Stock Award Plan. Awards may consist of stock
options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock
units, deferred stock units, deferred bonus units, dividend
equivalents, stock bonus, performance awards and other unit-based or
stock-based awards.
o 3,183,741 shares available for future deferrals directed into share
units under the Stock Investment Supplemental Plan, a nonqualified
deferred compensation plan providing benefits to employees whose
benefits are limited under the tax-qualified Stock Investment Plan, an
employee stock ownership plan with a 401(k) feature.
o 1,003,562 shares available for future awards under the Directors Stock
Compensation Plan. Awards may consist of shares, deferred stock units
and dividend equivalents.
(4) Includes the following:
o 11,311,995 shares available for future awards under the Stock Purchase
Plan for International Employees, Stock Purchase Plan for French
Employees, Save as You Earn Plan (U.K.), and Irish Savings Related
Share Option Scheme 2001.
o 10,398,783 shares that may be issued to settle outstanding restricted
stock unit, deferred stock unit and deferred bonus unit awards under
the 2000 Employee Incentive and Stock Award Plan and predecessor plans
and programs.
B-1
o 32,270,144 shares available for future awards under the 2000 Employee
Incentive and Stock Award Plan. Awards may consist of stock options,
stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units,
deferred stock units, deferred bonus units, dividend equivalents,
stock bonus, performance awards and other unit-based or stock-based
awards.
o 148,810 shares available for future awards under the Approved Share
Participation Schemes for employees in Ireland. Awards are made in
shares of stock.
o 1,835,327 shares available for future awards, and 316,480 shares that
may be issued to settle outstanding awards, under the Special
Severance Pay Plan. Awards consist of stock units and dividend
equivalents.
(5) MMC's Board of Directors has authorized the repurchase of common stock,
including an ongoing authorization to repurchase shares in connection with
awards granted under equity-based compensation plans, subject to market
conditions and other factors. Pursuant to that authorization, MMC
repurchased 11.4 million shares in 2004.
The material features of MMC's compensation plans that have not been
approved by stockholders and under which MMC shares are authorized for
issuance are described below. Any such material plans under which awards in
MMC shares may currently be granted are included as exhibits to this
report.
o Stock Purchase Plan for International Employees, Stock Purchase Plan
for French Employees, Save As You Earn Plan (U.K.) and Irish Savings
Related Share Option Scheme. Eligible employees may elect to
contribute to these plans through regular payroll deductions over an
offering period which varies by plan from 1 to 5 years. On each
purchase date, generally the end of the offering period, participants
may receive their contributions plus interest in cash or use that
amount to acquire shares of stock at a discounted purchase price.
Under the International Plan, the purchase price may be no less than
85% of the market price of the stock on each of four quarterly
purchase dates within the one-year offering period. Under the French
Plan, the purchase price may be no less than 85% of the market price
of the stock at the end of the offering period. Under the U.K. and
Irish Plans, the purchase price may be no less than 80% of the market
price of the stock at the beginning of the offering period.
o 2000 Employee Incentive and Stock Award Plan and predecessor plans and
programs. The terms of this plan and the 1997 Employee Incentive and
Stock Award Plan are described in Note 8 to the Consolidated Financial
Statements included under Item 8 of MMC's 2004 Annual Report on Form
10-K. In addition, the Stock Bonus Award Program provided for the
payment of up to 50% of annual bonuses otherwise payable in cash, in
the form of deferred stock units or deferred bonus units which are
settled in shares. No future awards may be granted under any
predecessor plan or program.
o Approved Share Participation Schemes for Employees in Ireland.
Eligible participants may elect to acquire shares of stock at market
price by allocating their bonus and up to an equivalent amount of
their basic salary. The acquired shares are held in trust and
generally may not be transferred for two years following their
acquisition. The initial value of any shares held in trust for more
than three years is not subject to income tax.
o Special Severance Pay Plan. Under this plan, certain holders of
restricted stock or awards in lieu of restricted stock with at least
10 years of service will receive payment in shares upon forfeiture of
their award if their employment with MMC or one of its subsidiaries
terminates. The amount of such payment is based on years of service,
with the individual receiving up to a maximum of 90% of the value of
the restricted shares after 25 years of service and is subject to
execution of a non-solicitation agreement.
B-2
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
Marsh o Putnam o Mercer
Marsh & McLennan Companies
Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc.
1166 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10036-2774
www.mmc.com
MARSH & McLENNAN COMPANIES, INC.
C/O PROXY SERVICES
P.O. BOX 9162
FARMINGDALE, NY 11735
VOTE BY TELEPHONE OR INTERNET OR MAIL
24 HOURS A DAY -- 7 DAYS A WEEK
IT'S FAST AND CONVENIENT
VOTE BY INTERNET - www.proxvvote.com
Use the Internet to transmit your voting instructions and for electronic
delivery of information up until 11:59 P.M. Eastern Time the day before the
cut-off date or meeting date. Have your proxy card in hand when you access the
web site and follow the instructions to obtain your records and to create an
electronic voting instruction form.
ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF FUTURE SHAREHOLDER COMMUNICATIONS
If you would like to reduce the costs incurred by Marsh & McLennan Companies,
Inc. in mailing proxy materials, you can consent to receiving all future proxy
statements, proxy cards and annual reports electronically via e-mail or the
Internet. To sign up for electronic delivery, please follow the instructions
above to vote using the Internet and, when prompted, indicate that you agree to
receive or access shareholder communications electronically in future years.
VOTE BY PHONE - 1-800-690-6903
Use any touch-tone telephone to transmit your voting instructions up until 11:59
P.M. Eastern Time the day before the cut-off date or meeting date. Have your
proxy card in hand when you call and then follow the instructions.
VOTE BY MAIL
Mark, sign and date your proxy card and return it in the postage-paid envelope
we have provided or return it to Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc., c/o Proxy
Services. P.O. Box 9162, Farmingdale, NY 11735.
PLEASE RETURN THIS CARD PROMPTLY USING THE
ACCOMPANYING ENVELOPE
TO VOTE, MARK BLOCKS BELOW
IN BLUE OR BLACK INK AS FOLLOWS: KEEP THIS PORTION FOR YOUR RECORDS
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DETACH AND RETURN THIS PORTION ONLY
THIS PROXY CARD IS VALID ONLY WHEN SIGNED AND DATED.
================================================================================
MARSH & McLENNAN COMPANIES, INC.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE
"FOR" THE LISTED NOMINEES.
Item 1. Election of Directors
Nominees:
01) Michael G. Cherkasky For Withhold For All To withhold authority to vote, mark "For All
02) Stephen R. Hardis All All Except Except" and write the nominee's number on the
03) The Rt. Hon. Lord Lang of Monkton, DL line below.
04) Morton O. Schapiro [_] [_] [_]
05) Adele Simmons ---------------------------------------------
The Board of Directors Recommends a vote "FOR" proposals 2 and 3 and "AGAINST" proposals 4, 5 and 6.
For Against Abstain For Against Abstain
Item 2. Ratification of Selection of Item 4. Stockholder Proposal:
Independent Registered Public CEO Compensation [_] [_] [_]
Accounting Firm [_] [_] [_]
Item 5. Stockholder Proposal:
Item 3. Proposal to Approve the Amendment Stock Option Policy [_] [_] [_]
of MMC's Equity Compensation
Plans to Permit an Exchange of Item 6. Stockholder Proposal:
Certain Options [_] [_] [_] Director Election
Voting Standard [_] [_] [_]
Please sign exactly as your name or names appear above. For joint accounts, each owner should sign.
If signing for a corporation or partnership or as agent, attorney or fiduciary, indicate capacity
in which you are signing.
For comments, please check this box and write them on the back where indicated. [_]
Please indicate if you plan to attend this meeting. If you Yes No
are voting by telephone, in order to select the option to attend
the meeting you must select option #2 (vote on directors and
proposals individually) on the telephone prompt. [_] [_]
HOUSEHOLDING ELECTION - Please indicate if you consent to
receive certain future investor communications in a single
package per household [_] [_]
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Signature [PLEASE SIGN WITHIN BOX] Date
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Signature (Joint Owners) Date
Your telephone or Internet vote authorizes the named proxies to vote the shares
in the same manner as if you marked, signed and returned your Proxy Form. If you
have submitted your proxy by telephone or the Internet there is no need for you
to mail back your Proxy Form.
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PROXY PROXY
MARSH & McLENNAN COMPANIES, INC.
THIS PROXY IS SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
FOR THE 2005 ANNUAL MEETING
FOR ALL STOCKHOLDERS
The undersigned hereby appoints Michael G. Cherkasky and Peter J. Beshar
proxies (each with power to act alone and with the power of substitution) of the
undersigned to vote all shares which the undersigned would be entitled to vote
at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. to be
held on Thursday, May 19, 2005 at 10:00 a.m. (New York City time) in the
auditorium, 2nd Floor, 1221 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York and at
any adjournment thereof.
FOR STOCKHOLDERS WHO ARE ALSO PARTICIPANTS IN MARSH & McLENNAN COMPANIES STOCK
INVESTMENT PLAN AND THE PUTNAM INVESTMENTS PROFIT SHARING RETIREMENT PLAN:
This card also constitutes the confidential voting instructions of the
participants in the Marsh & McLennan Companies Stock Investment Plan and The
Putnam Investments Profit Sharing Retirement Plan. By signing and returning this
card, the undersigned directs the Trustees under each Plan to vote in person or
by proxy all shares of stock of Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. (the "Company")
allocated to the undersigned under said Plans upon all matters at the Annual
Meeting of Stockholders of the Company on May 19, 2005 and at any adjournment
thereof. Provided this card is received by May 13, 2005, voting rights will be
exercised by the Trustees as directed or, if not specifically directed, FOR
items 1, 2 and 3 and AGAINST items 4, 5 and 6 and, in their discretion, upon any
other matters that may properly come before the meeting or any postponement
thereof. Under the Plans, the Trustees shall vote all other shares in the same
proportion as those shares for which it has received a signed instruction card.
Participants in these plans cannot vote at the meeting and may only vote these
shares as provided in this paragraph.
THIS PROXY WHEN PROPERLY EXECUTED WILL BE VOTED IN THE MANNER DIRECTED HEREIN.
IF NO DIRECTIONS ARE MADE, THEY WILL BE VOTED FOR ITEMS 1, 2 AND 3 AND AGAINST
ITEMS 4, 5 AND 6. IN THEIR DISCRETION THE PROXY HOLDERS ARE AUTHORIZED TO VOTE
UPON ANY OTHER MATTERS THAT MAY PROPERLY COME BEFORE THE MEETING OR ANY
POSTPONEMENT THEREOF.
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(If you noted any Comments above,
please mark corresponding box on the reverse side.)
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