of Atradius AG,
and serves as a director and member of the compensation committee of Hawesko AG and
Indesit Company (formerly known as Merloni Elettrodomestici Group). Age 78.
DeSoto Jordan has served as a director of
Perot Systems since February 2004. Since September 1999, Mr. Jordan has been a private investor and Chairman of Afton Holdings, LLC. From 1988 to 1999,
Mr. Jordan served as Vice President of Perot Systems. Mr. Jordan also serves as a director and member of the Audit Committee of Argan, Inc. Age
60.
Thomas Meurer has served as a director of
Perot Systems since May 2001. Mr. Meurer is Senior Vice President of Hunt Consolidated, Inc., and director and Senior Vice President of Hunt Oil
Company and has served as an officer of one or more of the Hunt affiliated entities for over five years. Age 63.
Cecil H. (C. H.) Moore, Jr. has served as a
director of Perot Systems since October 2003. Mr. Moore is a private investor and serves on several public boards since his retirement from KPMG LLP in
June 2000. From January 1990 until August 1999, he served as managing partner of the Dallas Business Unit and as an International Liaison Partner of
KPMG LLP. Mr. Moore is also a director and member of the audit committee of NL Industries, Inc. and a director and chairman of the audit committee of
Kronos Worldwide, Inc. Age 65.
Anuroop (Tony) Singh has served as a director
of Perot Systems since March 2005. Mr. Singh has served as Vice Chairman of Max New York Life Insurance Company Limited, a partnership between New York
Life International LLC and Max India Limited, since January 2005. Mr. Singh was CEO and managing director of Max New York Life from October 2000 until
December 2004. From June 1999 until September 2000, Mr. Singh was Country HeadIndia and Regional HeadConsumer Banking, Middle East &
South Asia for ANZ Grindlays Bank. Age 51.
Board and Committee Meetings
The Board met four times in 2004. During 2004, each
incumbent director attended at least 75% of the Board meetings and meetings of all of the committees of which he was a member. Directors are encouraged
to attend the annual meetings of Perot Systems stockholders. Four members of the Board attended the Companys annual stockholders
meeting in May 2004.
The Board has established the Audit Committee, Human
Resources and Compensation Committee, and Nominating and Governance Committee to assist in the discharge of the Boards responsibilities. Members
of the committees serve until their successors are appointed or their earlier resignation or removal.
The charters of the Audit, Human Resources and
Compensation, and Nominating and Governance Committees are publicly available at the Corporate Responsibility section of Perot Systems website
(www.perotsystems.com/responsibility). Perot Systems intends to disclose all substantive amendments to these charters on this website.
Stockholders may request a printed copy of any of these charters from Perot Systems Corporation, Attn: Investor Relations, 2300 West Plano Parkway,
Plano, Texas 75075, telephone (972) 577-0000. A copy of the Charter of the Audit Committee is attached to this Proxy Statement as Annex
1.
Presiding Director for Executive Sessions of
Non-Management Directors
The Board holds meetings of its non-management
directors quarterly. The presiding director for these meetings rotates January 1 of each year according to the alphabetical order of each
non-management directors last name. Mr. Gallagher served in this position during fiscal 2004. Mr. Hahn is the presiding director for 2005.
Stockholders and other interested parties may express any concerns regarding Perot Systems business practices to the presiding director or to the
non-management directors as a group by sending a written communication to Perot Systems Corporation, Attn: Non-Management Directors/Corporate
Secretary,
5
2300 West Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75075 or
by calling our Confidential Hotline (1-800-753-9173) and requesting that the information be provided to the non-management directors.
Audit Committee
The Audit Committee consists of C. H. Moore, Jr.,
Carl Hahn, and John S.T. Gallagher. Mr. Moore, the Chairman of the Audit Committee, was appointed to the Audit Committee in December 2003. Messrs. Hahn
and Gallagher were appointed in December 1994 and May 2001, respectively. The Audit Committee met 11 times in 2004. All members of the Audit Committee
satisfy the requirements of independence as set forth in the listing standards of the New York Stock Exchange and Perot Systems Director
Independence Standard, and are independent within the meaning of the Securities and Exchange Commission regulations. C. H. Moore, Jr. is qualified as
an audit committee financial expert within the meaning of the Securities and Exchange Commission regulations, and the Board has determined that he has
accounting and related financial management expertise within the meaning of the listing standards of the New York Stock Exchange.
The Audit Committee assists the Board in fulfilling
its responsibility for oversight of the quality and integrity of the accounting, auditing, and financial reporting practices of Perot Systems. The
Audit Committee does not prepare financial statements or perform audits, and its members are not auditors or certifiers of Perot Systems
financial statements. A charter, that the Board reassesses annually, governs the Audit Committees activities.
The Audit Committees primary responsibilities
and duties are to review and discuss with our outside independent registered public accounting firm our financial statements and the professional
services they provide, including the scope of their audit coverage, the independent registered public accounting firms reports to management and
managements responses to such reports, and the independence of the accounting firm from our management. The Audit Committee also reviews and
discusses with management the scope of our internal audits, summaries of the internal auditors reports and activities, the effectiveness of our
internal audit staff, certain possible violations of our Standards and Ethical Principles, and such other matters with respect to our accounting,
auditing, and financial reporting practices and procedures as it may find appropriate or as have been brought to its attention. In addition, the Board
has delegated to the Audit Committee the authority to select Perot Systems independent registered public accounting firm for each fiscal
year.
Human Resources and Compensation
Committee
The Human Resources and Compensation Committee
consists of Carl Hahn, DeSoto Jordan, and Thomas Meurer. Mr. Hahn, the Chairman of the committee, was appointed to the committee in March 2002. Messrs.
Meurer and Jordan were appointed in March 2002 and February 2004, respectively. The Human Resources and Compensation Committee met six times in
2004.
All members of the committee satisfy the
requirements of independence as set forth in the listing standards of the New York Stock Exchange and Perot Systems Director Independence
Standard. The primary responsibilities of the committee are to assist the Board of Directors in discharging its responsibilities relating to the
compensation of our associates, to review and make final determinations with respect to the compensation of the Chairman and the Chief Executive
Officer, and to review and make recommendations to the Board of Directors on the compensation of other executive officers and outside directors, bonus
and retirement plans, the 1999 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, and the 2001 Long-Term Incentive Plan. In addition, during 2004, the committees
responsibilities were increased to include reviewing Perot Systems succession planning and talent development processes and reviewing Perot
Systems progress in promoting diversity. In discharging these responsibilities, the committee was advised by our Human Resources organization. In
addition, the committee has engaged an independent compensation consultant as its advisor.
6
Nominating and Governance
Committee
The Nominating and Governance Committee consists of
Thomas Meurer, John S.T. Gallagher, and DeSoto Jordan. Mr. Meurer, the Chairman of the Nominating and Governance Committee, was appointed to the
committee in June 2003. Messrs. Gallagher and Jordan were appointed to the Nominating and Governance Committee in June 2003 and February 2004,
respectively. The committee met five times in 2004.
The Board of Directors established the Nominating
and Governance Committee to assist the Board in shaping the corporate governance of Perot Systems, including the composition of the Board and its
committees. The Nominating and Governance Committee identifies and recommends to the full Board all candidates for election as a director. The
committee also recommends corporate governance principles for Perot Systems.
Each member of the Nominating and Governance
Committee satisfies the requirements of independence set forth in the listing standards of the New York Stock Exchange and Perot Systems Director
Independence Standard. The Director Independence Standard is publicly available at the Corporate Responsibility section of Perot Systems website
(www.perotsystems.com/responsibility).
Director Independence
Pursuant to the Director Independence Standard, the
Board reviewed each directors independence in March 2005. As a result of this review, the Board affirmatively determined that each director
standing for election at the Annual Meeting, except Ross Perot, Ross Perot, Jr., Peter Altabef and Steve Blasnik, has no material relationship with
Perot Systems (either directly or as a partner, shareholder or officer of an organization that has a relationship with Perot Systems) and is
independent of Perot Systems and its management under the Director Independence Standard, the listing standards of the New York Stock Exchange
currently in effect and, with respect to members of the Audit Committee, applicable regulations of the Securities and Exchange
Commission.
In connection with Mr. Meurers independence
determination, the Board examined the long-standing personal relationships between Mr. Meurer and the Perot family. These relationships include Mr.
Meurers service as an unpaid trustee or co-trustee for 13 trusts that benefit members of Ross Perots family, including Ross Perot, Jr. One
of these trusts is a limited partner which owns approximately 56.4% of the economic interest in HWGA, Ltd., a limited partnership having Ross Perot and
Ross Perot, Jr. as its sole general partners. HWGA owns 31,705,000 shares of the Companys Class A Common Stock. However, as a limited partner,
the trust does not possess, either directly or indirectly, (i) the power to direct or cause the direction of management and policies of HWGA or (ii)
voting or dispositive power over the Class A Common Stock owned by HWGA. Five of the remaining trusts, one of which has Ross Perot, Jr. as its
principal beneficiary, own an aggregate of 136,800 shares (27,360 shares each) of the Companys Class A Common Stock. The Board also considered
the employment of Mr. Meurers son-in-law by Hillwood Development Company LLC, which is an affiliate of Ross Perot, Jr. Mr. Meurers
son-in-law is not an officer of Hillwood Development Company, LLC. After considering all relevant facts and circumstances, the Board determined Mr.
Meurers relationships were not material and do not impair the independence of Mr. Meurer.
In connection with Mr. Gallaghers independence
determination, the Board examined Mr. Gallaghers service as a Life Trustee on the 130-member board of trustees for North ShoreLong Island
Jewish Health System, a customer of Perot Systems, and his former service as its Chief Executive Officer. After considering all relevant facts and
circumstances, the Board determined that Mr. Gallaghers relationships were not material and do not impair the independence of Mr.
Gallagher.
7
In connection with Mr. Jordans independence
determination, the Board examined Mr. Jordans role as a founder of the Company and his employment by the Company until his retirement in 1999.
The Board also considered a personal loan made by Ross Perot to Mr. Jordan, which was repaid in 1999. After considering all relevant facts and
circumstances, the Board determined that Mr. Jordans relationships were not material and do not impair the independence of Mr.
Jordan.
Stockholder Nominations and Nominee Review
Process
The Nominating and Governance Committee will
consider director candidates recommended by Perot Systems stockholders. Perot Systems Director Qualification Guidelines are publicly
available at the Corporate Responsibility section of Perot Systems website (www.perotsystems.com/responsibility). Perot Systems
stockholders who wish to recommend a director candidate should mail the candidates resume, together with a letter from the candidate confirming
his or her interest in serving as a director of Perot Systems, to Perot Systems Corporation, Attn: Nominating Committee/Corporate Secretary, 2300 West
Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75075.
Once the Nominating and Governance Committee has
identified a prospective candidate, the committee makes an initial determination as to whether to conduct a full evaluation of the candidate. This
initial determination is based on the candidates resume, as well as the Nominating and Governance Committees own knowledge of the
prospective candidate, which may be supplemented by inquiries to the person making the recommendation or others. The initial determination is also
based on the likelihood that the prospective candidate meets the standards and qualifications set forth in the Perot Systems Director
Qualification Guidelines, which include:
|
|
the ability of the prospective candidate to represent the
interests of the stockholders of Perot Systems; |
|
|
the highest personal and professional ethics, integrity and
values; |
|
|
broad-based skills and experience at an executive, policy making
level in business, government or technology areas relevant to Perot Systems activities; |
|
|
a global business prospective; |
|
|
a willingness to devote sufficient time to become knowledgeable
about Perot Systems business and to carry out his or her duties and responsibilities effectively; |
|
|
a commitment to serve on the Board for five years or more at the
time of his or her initial election; and |
|
|
the extent to which the prospective candidate contributes to the
expertise of the Board. |
The Nominating and Governance Committee also
considers such other relevant factors as it deems appropriate, including the composition of the Board, the balance of management and independent
directors, and financial or industry expertise. If the Nominating and Governance Committee determines that the candidate is qualified and interested,
the committee coordinates a series of interviews between the candidate and appropriate directors, officers and other senior managers of Perot Systems.
After conducting their evaluation, the Nominating and Governance Committee makes a recommendation to the full Board as to the persons who should be
nominated by the Board, and the Board determines the nominees after considering the recommendation and report of the committee.
During 2004, no security holder or security holder
group that held more than 5% of Perot Systems common stock for at least one year has recommended a director candidate.
8
Directors (other than executive officers) standing
for election by our security holders for the first time and the source of recommendations for such directors are as follows:
Director Nominee
|
|
|
|
Recommended By
|
Anuroop (Tony)
Singh |
|
|
|
Third Party Search Firm |
We engaged a third party search firm on behalf of
the Nominating and Governance Committee that identified potential candidates for our Board of Directors who are located in India. The firm screened and
identified potential candidates based on the criteria for the director that were established by the Nominating and Governance Committee. The firm also
arranged for meetings between candidates selected by the Nominating and Governance Committee and representatives of Perot Systems and the
committee.
Communications with
Directors
Stockholders and other interested parties may send
communications to the Board of Directors, the Audit Committee, and the Nominating and Governance Committee at the addresses set forth in the table
below. Perot Systems Secretary is responsible for forwarding to appropriate directors all written communications addressed to the Board or its
committees. In addition, transcripts of calls to Perot Systems Confidential Hotline relating to accounting and financial matters are forwarded to
the members of the Audit Committee.
Directors
|
|
|
|
Address
|
Board of
Directors |
|
|
|
By
mail: Perot Systems Corporation Attn: Board of Directors/Corporate Secretary 2300 West Plano Parkway Plano, TX 75075 |
|
|
|
|
|
Audit
Committee |
|
|
|
By
mail: Perot Systems Corporation Attn: Audit Committee/Corporate Secretary 2300 West Plano Parkway Plano, TX 75075 By e-mail:
PSC-AuditCommittee@ps.net Telephone: +1 (800) 753-9173 (Confidential Hotline) |
|
|
|
|
|
Nominating and
Governance Committee |
|
|
|
By
mail: Perot Systems Corporation Attn: Nominating Committee/Corporate Secretary 2300 West Plano Parkway Plano, TX 75075 |
|
|
|
|
|
Individual
Directors |
|
|
|
By
mail: Perot Systems Corporation Attn: Name of Director/Corporate Secretary 2300 West Plano Parkway Plano, TX 75075 |
Director Compensation
Each of the non-employee directors (other than Ross
Perot) receives a $45,000 annual retainer payable in quarterly installments. These non-employee directors have the option to receive all or part of the
retainer in the Companys Class A Common Stock, which will be valued at the closing price of our Class A Common Stock on the New York Stock
Exchange on the last trading day of the quarter with respect to which payment is due. Additional retainers for the Chair-persons of the Audit Committee
and the Human Resources and Compensation Committee are $5,000 and $3,000, respectively. Perot Systems also compensates each of its non-employee
directors (other than Ross Perot) $2,000 for each meeting of the Board and committee of the Board attended in person or by telephone. In the event that
a director attends multiple meetings of the Board and its committees on the same or consecutive days, each of the non-employee directors are
compensated a
9
total of $2,000 for all such meetings. We
reimburse our directors for their reasonable travel-related and other out-of-pocket expenses associated with attending Board and committee meetings.
Ross Perot receives no compensation for his services.
Perot Systems 1996 Non-Employee Director Plan
provides for the issuance of nonqualified stock options or restricted stock to our non-employee directors (other than Ross Perot). The Board
administers the Non-Employee Director Plan and has the authority to interpret it. Directors who are not employees of Perot Systems are eligible to
receive awards under the Non-Employee Director Plan. The Non-Employee Director Plan currently provides for a grant to each eligible director of (i) an
option to purchase 8,000 shares of Class A Common Stock vesting one year after the date of grant or (ii) the right to purchase 8,000 restricted shares
of Class A Common Stock vesting one year after the date of grant. The exercise price of options or the purchase price of restricted shares of Class A
Common Stock must be at least equal to 100% of the fair market value of the Class A Common Stock on the date of the award. Perot Systems makes grants
to new directors upon their initial election to the Board and to existing directors at completion of the original vesting schedule for any existing
options or restricted shares granted to such director under the Non-Employee Director Plan.
During 2004, our non-employee directors earned the
following compensation (in addition to grants of options under the Non-Employee Director Plan):
Steve
Blasnik |
|
|
|
$8,043 and 3,093 shares of Class A Common Stock |
John S. T.
Gallagher |
|
|
|
$69,000 |
William K.
Gayden(1) |
|
|
|
$6,270 |
Carl
Hahn |
|
|
|
$27,043 and 3,093 shares of Class A Common Stock |
DeSoto
Jordan |
|
|
|
$46,791 |
Thomas
Meurer |
|
|
|
$10,043 and 3,093 shares of Class A Common Stock |
C. H. Moore,
Jr. |
|
|
|
$72,000 |
Anuroop (Tony)
Singh(2) |
|
|
|
$0 |
(1) |
|
Mr. Gayden resigned as a director on February 20,
2004. |
(2) |
|
Mr. Singh was appointed as a director on March 3,
2005. |
Corporate Governance Principles
Code of Conduct
Perot Systems has adopted Standards & Ethical
Principles to assist its directors, executive officers and other employees to recognize and deal with ethical issues in business situations, to provide
mechanisms to report unethical conduct, and to promote a culture of honesty and accountability.
The Standards & Ethical Principles are publicly
available at the Corporate Responsibility section of Perot Systems website (www.perotsystems.com/responsibility). Stockholders may request
a printed copy of these guidelines, without charge, from Perot Systems Corporation, Attn: Investor Relations, 2300 West Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas
75075, telephone (972) 577-0000.
Perot Systems intends to disclose all substantive
amendments to the Standards & Ethical Principles on its website. In addition, Perot Systems intends to disclose waivers, if any, granted to any of
its directors or to its Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Controller and any other executive officer on its website.
10
Governance Guidelines
Perot Systems has corporate governance guidelines.
These guidelines are publicly available at the Corporate Responsibility section of Perot Systems website
(www.perotsystems.com/responsibility). Perot Systems intends to disclose all substantive amendments to these guidelines on this website.
Stockholders may request a printed copy of these guidelines, without charge, from Perot Systems Corporation, Attn: Investor Relations, 2300 West Plano
Parkway, Plano, Texas 75075, telephone (972) 577-0000.
PROPOSAL NO. 2
RATIFICATION OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
The Audit Committee has selected
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as the independent registered public accounting firm to perform the audit of our financial statements for 2005.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP was our independent registered public accounting firm for the year ended December 31, 2004.
We are asking our stockholders to ratify the
selection of PricewaterhouseCoopers as our independent registered public accounting firm. Although ratification is not required, the Board is
submitting the selection of PricewaterhouseCoopers to our stockholders for ratification as a matter of good corporate practice. Even if the selection
is ratified, the Audit Committee in its discretion may select a different independent registered public accounting firm at any time during the year if
it determines that such a change would be in the best interests of Perot Systems and our stockholders.
PricewaterhouseCoopers representatives are expected
to attend the 2005 Annual Meeting. They will have an opportunity to make a statement if they desire to do so and will be available to respond to
appropriate stockholder questions.
Fees Paid to PricewaterhouseCoopers
LLP
The following table shows the aggregate fees
PricewaterhouseCoopers has billed or is expected to bill to Perot Systems for services rendered in 2004 and 2003.
Year
|
|
|
|
Audit Fees (1)(2)
|
|
Audit Related Fees (3)
|
|
Tax Fees (4)
|
|
All Other Fees (5)
|
|
Total
|
2004(6) |
|
|
|
$ |
2,931,110 |
|
|
$ |
42,986 |
|
|
$ |
415,143 |
|
|
$ |
1,624 |
|
|
$ |
3,390,863 |
|
2003(7) |
|
|
|
$ |
1,546,963 |
|
|
$ |
329,312 |
|
|
$ |
487,631 |
|
|
$ |
47,161 |
|
|
$ |
2,411,067 |
|
(1) |
|
Fees for our annual audit and review of interim financial
statements, various statutory audits, and consultations on the accounting for existing transactions. |
(2) |
|
Audit fees in 2004 also include fees for audit and attestation
with respect to internal control over financial reporting. |
(3) |
|
Services included audits of an employee benefit plan, due
diligence, audits in connection with acquisitions, and consultations on the accounting for prospective transactions. Amounts for 2003 include amounts
for services performed in connection with the acquisition of HCL Perot Systems B.V., which was renamed Perot Systems TSI (Netherlands) B.V. following
the acquisition. |
(4) |
|
Fees for compliance and tax advisory services. |
(5) |
|
In 2003, these fees were primarily for foreign subsidiary
pension benefit services. In 2004, these fees were for a subscription fee to an online accounting research tool. |
(6) |
|
Amounts include estimates that have not been billed. |
(7) |
|
Actual amounts, which differ from estimated amounts included in
prior reports. |
11
In 2004, all audit related services, tax services
and other services were pre-approved by the Audit Committee, which concluded that the provision of such services by PricewaterhouseCoopers was
compatible with the maintenance of that firms independence in the conduct of its auditing functions. See Report of Audit Committee.
Our policy restricting the engagement of our audit firm requires that all audit, review and attestation services require approval from the Audit
Committee prior to Perot Systems engaging the audit firm.
In addition, our policy regarding the engagement of
our independent registered public accounting firm provides that the Audit Committee may pre-approve engagement of the accounting firm for services in
designated areas for fees that do not exceed the pre-approved limit. For 2005, the Audit Committee has approved the following types of
services:
|
|
Audit Related Servicespension and benefit plan audits,
separate audit reports on subsidiaries, other statutory reports not included in audit services, advice on generally accepted accounting principles
applicable to prospective transactions, and accounting consultation for business combinations under consideration. |
|
|
Tax Servicestax accounting advice, federal and state tax
advice, tax advice and implementation on federal and state tax return preparation and review, assistance with tax examinations, advice and assistance
with respect to transfer pricing and tax examinations, and compliance reviews. |
|
|
Other Servicesannual subscription fee for accounting
research tool. |
The policy requires quarterly reports to the Audit
Committee on billings for pre-approved services. Any amounts in excess of pre-approved amounts for these services must be specifically approved by the
Chairman of the Audit Committee and reported to the full Audit Committee no later than its next regular meeting.
The Audit Committee or its Chairman may also approve
specific engagements for non-audit services. Following such approval, Perot Systems may engage the auditor to perform those services. Any approval by
the Chairman must be reported to the full Audit Committee no later than its next regular meeting.
THE BOARD RECOMMENDS THAT THE STOCKHOLDERS VOTE FOR THE RATIFICATION
OF THE APPOINTMENT OF PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS LLP.
12
STOCK OWNERSHIP OF PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS
AND MANAGEMENT
The following table shows the number of shares of
Common Stock beneficially owned as of March 14, 2005 by:
|
|
each person who we know beneficially owns more than 5% of our
common stock; |
|
|
each person who served as Chief Executive Officer during 2004
and the other executive officers required to be named in the Summary Compensation Table; and |
|
|
all executive officers and directors as a group. |
|
|
|
|
Class A Common Stock
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of Shares Beneficially Owned(1)
|
|
Percent of Ownership(1)
|
Executive
Officers and Directors
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Peter
Altabef(2) |
|
|
|
|
305,267 |
|
|
|
* |
|
Darcy
Anderson(3) |
|
|
|
|
115,325 |
|
|
|
* |
|
James
Champy(4) |
|
|
|
|
999,286 |
|
|
|
* |
|
Russell
Freeman(5) |
|
|
|
|
229,171 |
|
|
|
* |
|
John
King(6) |
|
|
|
|
1,160,136 |
|
|
|
1.0 |
% |
Steven
Blasnik(7) |
|
|
|
|
87,052 |
|
|
|
* |
|
John S.T.
Gallagher(8) |
|
|
|
|
24,000 |
|
|
|
* |
|
Carl
Hahn(9) |
|
|
|
|
106,052 |
|
|
|
* |
|
DeSoto
Jordan(10) |
|
|
|
|
340,375 |
|
|
|
* |
|
Thomas
Meurer(11) |
|
|
|
|
169,852 |
|
|
|
* |
|
C. H. Moore,
Jr.(12) |
|
|
|
|
8,000 |
|
|
|
* |
|
Ross
Perot(13) |
|
|
|
|
31,763,100 |
|
|
|
27.3 |
% |
Ross Perot,
Jr.(14) |
|
|
|
|
32,480,000 |
|
|
|
27.7 |
% |
Anuroop
(Tony) Singh |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
All
Executive Officers and Directors as a Group (16 Persons)(15) |
|
|
|
|
36,090,616 |
|
|
|
30.7 |
% |
Additional
5% Beneficial Owners
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Royce &
Associates, LLC(16) |
|
|
|
|
9,900,500 |
|
|
|
8.5 |
% |
Wachovia
Corporation(17) |
|
|
|
|
6,584,141 |
|
|
|
5.7 |
% |
(1) |
|
Percentages are based on the total number of shares of Class A
Common Stock outstanding at March 14, 2005, plus the total number of outstanding options and warrants held by each person that are exercisable within
60 days of such date. We do not consider shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon exercise of outstanding options and warrants to be outstanding
for purposes of computing the percentage ownership of any other person. Except as indicated in the footnotes to this table, other than shared property
rights created under joint tenancy or marital property laws between our directors and executive officers and their respective spouses, each stockholder
named in the table has sole voting and investment power with respect to the shares of Class A Common Stock set forth opposite such stockholders
name. The shares of Class A Common Stock listed include shares held by our Retirement Savings Plan and Trust for the benefit of the named individuals.
Participants in the plan have investment and voting power over shares held for their benefit. |
(2) |
|
Includes 121,000 shares of Class A Common Stock that Mr. Altabef
has the right to acquire upon the exercise of vested options and 2,000 shares of Class A Common Stock Mr. Altabefs spouse holds. Mr. Altabef
disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares that his spouse holds. |
(3) |
|
Includes 114,600 shares of Class A Common Stock that Mr.
Anderson has the right to acquire upon the exercise of vested options. |
13
(4) |
|
Includes 200,000 shares of Class A Common Stock the Champy
Family Irrevocable Trust, of which Mr. Champy is a trustee, holds. As trustee, Mr. Champy shares voting and investment power with respect to the shares
of Class A Common Stock the Champy Trust holds and, therefore, the table shows him as the beneficial owner of such shares of Class A Common Stock.
Includes 24,000 shares of Class A Common Stock that Mr. Champy has the right to acquire upon the exercise of vested options. |
(5) |
|
Includes 208,000 shares of Class A Common Stock that Mr. Freeman
has the right to acquire upon the exercise of vested options. |
(6) |
|
Includes 13,800 shares of Class A Common Stock that Mr. King has
the right to acquire upon the exercise of vested options and 4,000 shares of Class A Common Stock that Mr. Kings spouse holds. Mr. King disclaims
beneficial ownership of the shares that his spouse holds. Also includes 100,000 shares of Class A Common Stock held in a trust for his children. As
trustee of this trust, Mr. King shares voting and investment power with respect to the shares of Class A Common Stock and, therefore, the table shows
him as the beneficial owner of such shares of Class A Common Stock. |
(7) |
|
Includes 76,000 shares of Class A Common Stock that Mr. Blasnik
has the right to acquire upon the exercise of vested options and 6,000 shares of Class A Common Stock that Mr. Blasniks spouse holds. Mr. Blasnik
disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares that his spouse holds. |
(8) |
|
Includes 24,000 shares of Class A Common Stock that Mr.
Gallagher has the right to acquire upon the exercise of vested options. |
(9) |
|
Includes 16,000 shares of Class A Common Stock that Mr. Hahn has
the right to acquire upon the exercise of vested options. |
(10) |
|
Includes 8,000 shares of Class A Common Stock that Mr. Jordan
has the right to acquire upon the exercise of vested options. |
(11) |
|
Includes 136,800 shares owned by Perot Investment Trusts
IV of which Mr. Meurer is trustee. As trustee, Mr. Meurer has voting and investment power with respect to the shares of Class A Common Stock held
by the Trusts and, therefore, the table shows him as the beneficial owner of such shares of Class A Common Stock. Also includes 24,000 shares of Class
A Common Stock that Mr. Meurer has the right to acquire upon the exercise of vested options. |
(12) |
|
Includes 8,000 shares of Class A Common Stock that Mr. Moore has
the right to acquire upon the exercise of vested options. |
(13) |
|
Includes 31,705,000 shares owned by HWGA, Ltd.; 10,000 shares
owned by The Perot Foundation; 4,000 shares owned by Petrus Financial Services Limited, a Texas limited partnership; and 100 shares owned by Ross
Perots spouse with respect to which Mr. Perot disclaims beneficial ownership. Ross Perot, our Chairman Emeritus, is the managing general partner
of HWGA. Ross Perot has voting and investment power over shares owned by HWGA. Ross Perot, Jr., Chairman of Perot Systems, is a general partner of HWGA
and has authority to manage HWGA if Ross Perot ceases to be managing general partner of HWGA. Accordingly, the table also shows Ross Perot, Jr.
beneficially owning the shares that HWGA owns. Mr. Perot is a director and officer of The Perot Foundation. Petrus Financial Services Limited is an
affiliate of Ross Perot. The address for Ross Perot, HWGA, The Perot Foundation and Petrus Financial Services Limited is P.O. Box 269014, Plano, Texas
75026-9014. |
(14) |
|
Includes 31,705,000 shares of Class A Common Stock owned by
HWGA, Ltd.; 10,000 shares owned by The Perot Foundation; 5,000 shares owned by Ross Perot, Jr.s spouse; and 760,000 shares that Ross Perot, Jr.
has the right to acquire upon the exercise of vested options. Mr. Perot disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares his spouse holds. Ross Perot, Jr.
is a general partner of HWGA. Ross Perot, our Chairman Emeritus, is the managing general partner of HWGA. If Ross Perot ceases to be managing general
partner, Ross Perot, Jr. will have authority to manage HWGA. Accordingly, the table also shows Ross Perot beneficially owning the shares that HWGA
owns. Ross Perot, Jr. is a director of The Perot Foundation. The address for Ross Perot, Jr. is 2300 West Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75075, and the
address of HWGA and The Perot Foundation is P.O. Box 269014, Plano, Texas 75026-9014. |
14
(15) |
|
In addition to the 14 listed executive officers and directors,
Mr. Renzi and Mr. Williams are executive officers and are therefore included in the group of 16 persons. Includes 1,414,400 shares of Class A Common
Stock that the Executive Officers and Directors have the right to acquire upon the exercise of vested options. |
(16) |
|
This data is based on information contained in Amendment No. 2
to Schedule 13G filed by Royce & Associates, LLC with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 2, 2005. The address for Royce &
Associates, LLC is 1414 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10019. |
(17) |
|
This data is based on information contained in Amendment No. 1
to Schedule 13G filed by Wachovia Corporation with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 3, 2005. The address for Wachovia Corporation is
One Wachovia Center, Charlotte, North Carolina 28288-0137. |
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Summary of Cash and Certain Other Compensation
The Summary Compensation Table below shows
compensation for the years 2004, 2003, and 2002 for each person who served as the Chief Executive Officer during 2004 and the four other most highly
compensated executive officers who were serving as executive officers at the end of 2004 (the named executive officers).
Summary
Compensation Table
|
|
|
|
|
Long Term Compensation Awards
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Annual Compensation
|
|
Name and Principal Position
|
|
Year
|
|
Salary ($)
|
|
Bonus ($)(1)
|
|
Other ($)(2)
|
|
Restricted Stock Awards ($)(3)
|
|
Securities Underlying Options
|
|
LTIP Payouts ($)
|
|
All Other Compensation ($)(4)
|
|
|
Peter
Altabef |
|
|
|
2004 |
|
|
|
389,504 |
|
|
|
661,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,859,480 |
|
|
|
100,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8,200 |
|
President
and Chief
|
|
|
|
2003 |
|
|
|
341,744 |
|
|
|
210,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
263,000 |
|
|
|
40,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8,000 |
|
Executive
Officer(5)
|
|
|
|
2002 |
|
|
|
335,172 |
|
|
|
118,349 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
105,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8,000 |
|
|
Ross Perot,
Jr. |
|
|
|
2004 |
|
|
|
510,000 |
|
|
|
720,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8,200 |
|
Chairman(6)
|
|
|
|
2003 |
|
|
|
500,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
2002 |
|
|
|
500,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
James
Champy |
|
|
|
2004 |
|
|
|
557,238 |
|
|
|
492,000 |
|
|
|
10,022 |
|
|
|
496,930 |
|
|
|
30,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
21,200 |
|
Vice
President
|
|
|
|
2003 |
|
|
|
546,312 |
|
|
|
130,000 |
|
|
|
10,022 |
|
|
|
263,000 |
|
|
|
40,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
25,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
2002 |
|
|
|
540,956 |
|
|
|
81,947 |
|
|
|
11,528 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
40,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
25,000 |
|
|
Russell
Freeman |
|
|
|
2004 |
|
|
|
357,000 |
|
|
|
548,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
617,155 |
|
|
|
45,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8,200 |
|
Vice
President and Chief
|
|
|
|
2003 |
|
|
|
350,000 |
|
|
|
210,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
263,000 |
|
|
|
40,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8,000 |
|
Financial
Officer
|
|
|
|
2002 |
|
|
|
343,167 |
|
|
|
82,800 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
120,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8,000 |
|
|
John
King |
|
|
|
2004 |
|
|
|
344,208 |
|
|
|
365,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
322,203 |
|
|
|
25,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8,200 |
|
Vice
President
|
|
|
|
2003 |
|
|
|
337,459 |
|
|
|
110,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
124,925 |
|
|
|
19,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
2002 |
|
|
|
337,459 |
|
|
|
70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
25,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8,000 |
|
|
Darcy
Anderson |
|
|
|
2004 |
|
|
|
289,467 |
|
|
|
351,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
440,024 |
|
|
|
32,500 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8,200 |
|
Vice
President
|
|
|
|
2003 |
|
|
|
283,791 |
|
|
|
90,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
184,100 |
|
|
|
28,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
2002 |
|
|
|
279,658 |
|
|
|
77,569 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
65,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
Bonus amounts shown for 2004 include bonuses earned in 2004 and
paid in 2005. Mr. Altabefs bonus for 2004 comprises $374,000 paid with respect to service as our General Counsel and $287,000 paid |
15
|
|
with respect to service as our President and Chief Executive
Officer. Ross Perot, Jr.s bonus for 2004 was paid with respect to the period he served as our President and Chief Executive Officer. Bonus
amounts shown for 2003 include bonuses earned in 2003 and paid in 2004. Bonuses for 2003 include $70,000 outside of the annual bonus plan for each of
Messrs. Freeman and Altabef and $20,000 for Mr. King related to performance with respect to special projects. Bonus amounts shown for 2002 include
bonuses earned in 2002 and paid in 2003. Bonuses paid for 2002 include bonuses outside of the annual bonus program in the amounts of $10,000 for Mr.
Freeman, $20,000 for Mr. King, $35,000 for Mr. Anderson, and $50,000 for Mr. Altabef related to performance with respect to special projects. Ross
Perot, Jr. declined to be considered for, or declined, bonuses in 2003 and 2002. |
(2) |
|
Represents the payment of taxes related to the life insurance
premiums referenced in Note 4 to this table. |
(3) |
|
At December 31, 2004, Mr. Champy owned 200,000 restricted shares
of Class A Common Stock with a value (less the amount paid therefor) of $2,956,000 that were issued under our 1988 Restricted Stock Plan. These
restricted shares vest in equal installments over 10 years with vesting beginning in 1997. The restricted stock unit awards vest in five equal annual
installments beginning on the first anniversary of the grant. Vesting is contingent upon satisfaction of individual performance requirements. In
addition, at December 31, 2004, Mr. Altabef owned 116,000 restricted stock units representing the right to receive Class A Common Stock with a value
(less the amount paid therefor) of $1,859,480; Mr. Anderson owned 27,450 restricted stock units representing the right to receive Class A Common Stock
with a value (less the amount paid therefor) of $440,024; Mr. Champy owned 31,000 restricted stock units representing the right to receive Class A
Common Stock with a value (less the amount paid therefor) of $496,930; Mr. Freeman owned 38,500 restricted stock units representing the right to
receive Class A Common Stock with a value (less the amount paid therefor) of $617,155; and Mr. King owned 20,100 restricted stock units representing
the right to receive Class A Common Stock with a value (less the amount paid therefor) of $322,203. Holders of restricted stock and restricted stock
units are entitled to a pro rata distribution of any dividends paid by Perot Systems on the Class A Common Stock. |
(4) |
|
In 2004, represents (i) $13,000 in life insurance premiums paid
for the benefit of Mr. Champy, and (ii) $8,200 in contributions to our 401(k) plan for the benefit of each named executive officer. In 2003, represents
(i) $17,000 in life insurance premiums paid for the benefit of Mr. Champy; and (ii) $8,000 in contributions to our 401(k) plan for the benefit of each
named executive officer. In 2002, represents (i) $17,000 in life insurance premiums paid for the benefit of Mr. Champy; and (ii) $8,000 in
contributions to our 401(k) plan for the benefit of each of Messrs. Altabef, Champy, Freeman and King. |
(5) |
|
Mr. Altabef served as Vice President, General Counsel and
Secretary until September 22, 2004. |
(6) |
|
Ross Perot, Jr. served as President and Chief Executive Officer
until September 22, 2004. |
16
Stock Option Grants
The following table provides information relating to
option grants in 2004 to the named executive officers. All options are exercisable for Class A Common Stock pursuant to the Companys existing
stock option plans and are non-qualified stock options.
Option Grants in Last Fiscal Year
|
|
|
|
Individual Grants
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Potential Realized Value at Assumed Annual Rates of Stock
Price Appreciation for Option Term(1)
|
|
Name
|
|
|
|
Number of Securities Underlying Options Granted
|
|
Percent of Total Options Granted to Employees in Fiscal
Year
|
|
Exercise Price ($/Sh)
|
|
Expiration Date
|
|
5% ($)
|
|
10% ($)
|
Ross Perot,
Jr. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Peter
Altabef(2) |
|
|
|
|
100,000 |
|
|
|
3.95 |
% |
|
$ |
15.93 |
|
|
|
12/13/11 |
|
|
$ |
648,511 |
|
|
$ |
1,511,306 |
|
Darcy
Anderson(2) |
|
|
|
|
32,500 |
|
|
|
1.28 |
% |
|
$ |
15.93 |
|
|
|
12/13/11 |
|
|
$ |
210,766 |
|
|
$ |
491,175 |
|
James
Champy(2) |
|
|
|
|
30,000 |
|
|
|
1.18 |
% |
|
$ |
15.93 |
|
|
|
12/13/11 |
|
|
$ |
194,553 |
|
|
$ |
453,392 |
|
Russell
Freeman(2) |
|
|
|
|
45,000 |
|
|
|
1.78 |
% |
|
$ |
15.93 |
|
|
|
12/13/11 |
|
|
$ |
291,830 |
|
|
$ |
680,088 |
|
John
King(2) |
|
|
|
|
25,000 |
|
|
|
.99 |
% |
|
$ |
15.93 |
|
|
|
12/13/11 |
|
|
$ |
162,128 |
|
|
$ |
377,827 |
|
(1) |
|
These amounts represent assumed rates of appreciation in value
from the date of grant until the end of the option term, at the rates set by the Securities and Exchange Commission and, therefore, are not intended to
forecast possible future appreciation, if any, in the shares of Class A Common Stock. |
(2) |
|
Grant vests in five equal annual installments beginning on the
first anniversary of the grant. |
Option Exercises and Holdings
The following table provides information regarding
exercises of stock options by named executive officers during 2004.
Aggregated Option Exercises in Last Fiscal Year and Fiscal Year-End Option
Values
|
|
|
|
|
Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options at Fiscal
Year-End
|
|
Value of Unexercised in-the-Money Options at Fiscal Year-End
|
|
Name
|
|
|
|
Class A Shares Acquired on Exercise(#)
|
|
Value Realized($)
|
|
Exercisable(#)
|
|
Unexercisable(#)
|
|
Exercisable($)
|
|
Unexercisable($)
|
Ross Perot,
Jr. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
760,000 |
|
|
|
1,240,000 |
|
|
$ |
4,962,800 |
|
|
$ |
2,952,200 |
|
Peter
Altabef |
|
|
|
|
64,000 |
|
|
$ |
864,670 |
|
|
|
76,000 |
|
|
|
273,000 |
|
|
|
201,810 |
|
|
|
814,510 |
|
Darcy
Anderson |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
114,600 |
|
|
|
135,900 |
|
|
|
606,128 |
|
|
|
535,262 |
|
James
Champy |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
24,000 |
|
|
|
86,000 |
|
|
|
125,440 |
|
|
|
248,760 |
|
Russell
Freeman |
|
|
|
|
32,000 |
|
|
|
437,082 |
|
|
|
202,000 |
|
|
|
263,000 |
|
|
|
873,600 |
|
|
|
1,127,170 |
|
John
King |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
13,800 |
|
|
|
55,200 |
|
|
|
74,944 |
|
|
|
142,276 |
|
Employment Contracts and Change in Control Agreements
James Champy
James Champys associate agreement provides for
a base salary of $500,000 per year, which is to be reviewed at least annually, and provides for additional benefits, including:
|
|
a bonus to be determined in accordance with the current bonus
plan for the most senior officers of Perot Systems, |
17
|
|
payment of life insurance premiums, and |
Mr. Champys associate agreement also provides
that if we terminate him other than for cause or substantial misconduct or Mr. Champy is deemed to have been constructively terminated, Mr. Champy will
receive a severance payment equal to six months of his current base salary. If either party terminates his employment (other than for cause by Perot
Systems) within one year of a change in control of Perot Systems, Mr. Champy would receive severance equal to six months of his current base salary. We
may terminate Mr. Champys associate agreement upon 30 days notice and payment of severance equal to six months base pay plus
benefits.
The 1,000,000 restricted shares of Class A Common
Stock Mr. Champy acquired pursuant to his restricted stock agreement vest in equal annual installments beginning in 1997 and ending in 2006. Vesting is
contingent on continued employment, but Mr. Champys restricted shares of Class A Common Stock will continue to vest for limited periods following
the termination of his employment if he is terminated by Perot Systems other than for cause or substantial misconduct or is deemed to have been
constructively terminated. If we terminate Mr. Champy other than for cause or substantial misconduct, his restricted shares of Class A Common Stock
will continue to vest as scheduled for two years following termination. If there is a change in control of Perot Systems and either party terminates
Mr. Champys employment within one year of such change in control (other than for cause by Perot Systems), all of his shares of Class A Common
Stock scheduled to vest through the next two vesting dates will vest on schedule. If either party terminates Mr. Champys employment for any
reason, he has the right to require Perot Systems to purchase his shares for their original cost plus simple interest at the rate of 8% per
annum.
We have no employment contracts, severance
arrangements or change in control agreements with any of our other named executive officers.
Executive Officers
The following is a description of our executive
officers who are not on the Board of Directors. Our executive officers serve at the discretion of the Board of Directors.
Executive Officer
|
|
|
|
Business Experience
|
|
Joined Perot Systems
|
Darcy
Anderson |
|
|
|
Elected Vice President of Perot Systems in December 2000. From April 1994 to November 2000, Mr. Anderson served as Senior Vice President of
Hillwood Development Company LLC. Age 48. |
|
2000 |
James
Champy |
|
|
|
Elected Vice President of Perot Systems in September 1996. Mr. Champy also served as a director of Perot Systems from September 1996 until
February 2004. Mr. Champy is also a director and serves as a member of the compensation committee of Analog Devices, Inc. Age 62. |
|
1996 |
Russell
Freeman |
|
|
|
Elected Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Perot Systems in August 2000. From November 1997 to August 2000, Mr. Freeman served as
Controller of Perot Systems. Age 41. |
|
1989 |
John
King |
|
|
|
One
of our founders, Mr. King was elected as Vice President of Perot Systems in April 1989, and currently serves as General Manager of Strategic
Partnerships. Until August 2000, Mr. King was responsible for our Financial Services Group. Age 58. |
|
1988 |
18
Executive Officer
|
|
|
|
Business Experience
|
|
Joined Perot Systems
|
Jeff
Renzi |
|
|
|
Elected as Vice President of Perot Systems in April 2003. Mr. Renzi was employed by Electronic Data Systems from 1989 to 2003. While at
Electronic Data Systems, Mr. Renzi served in a number of positions, including Vice President of Sales. Age 44. |
|
2003 |
Thomas D.
Williams |
|
|
|
Elected Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel of Perot Systems in September 2004. Mr. Williams was a partner in the law firm of Luce
& Williams from February 1997 until September 2004. Age 44. |
|
2004 |
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions
Licenses for Use of Name
We license the right to use the names
Perot and Perot Systems in our current and future businesses, products, or services from the Perot Systems Family Corporation
and our Chairman Emeritus, Ross Perot. The license is a non-exclusive, royalty-free, non-transferable license without geographic restriction. We may
also sublicense our rights to these names to certain of our affiliates. Under the license agreement either party may, in their sole discretion,
terminate the license at any time, with or without cause and without penalty, by giving the other party written notice of such termination. Upon
termination by either party, we must discontinue all use of the names Perot and Perot Systems within one year following notice
of termination.
Outsourcing Agreement with Hillwood Enterprises
L.P.
We are currently providing information technology
and energy management services for Hillwood Enterprise L.P., which is controlled and partially owned by Ross Perot, Jr. This contract was amended
during 2003 and will expire on April 1, 2006. This contract includes provisions under which we may be penalized if our actual performance does not meet
the levels of service specified in the contract, and such provisions are consistent with those included in other customer contracts. For the year ended
December 31, 2004, we recorded revenue of $1,640,446 and direct cost of services of $1,191,524. Our Audit Committee has reviewed and approved this
contract.
Sublease with Perot Services Company,
LLC
During 2002, we entered into a sublease agreement
with Perot Services Company, LLC, which is controlled and owned by Ross Perot, for approximately 23,000 square feet of office space at our Plano, Texas
facility. The initial lease term is 30 months with one optional 24-month renewal period. Under the terms of the sublease, we paid a $100,000 allowance
for modifications to the leased space. Perot Services Company, LLC has paid all modification costs in excess of the allowance. The total amount paid to
Perot Systems in 2004 under this sublease agreement was $319,905. Our Audit Committee has reviewed and approved this contract.
Affiliate Use of AAirPass
Program
Perot Systems has a corporate AAirPass program with
American Airlines under which it prepays for mileage that Perot Systems associates use for business travel. Historically, the use of prepaid miles has
resulted in lower travel costs than refundable tickets for most travel itineraries. Employees of Hillwood Development Company LLC, The Perot Group, and
their affiliated corporations, as well as members of the Perot family also use the Perot Systems AAirPass program. These parties reimburse Perot
Systems for the prepaid miles that they use. During 2004, these parties used approximately $510,000 in prepaid miles under the Perot Systems AAirPass
program, of which approximately $394,000 has been reimbursed, and the
19
remaining
$116,000 will be reimbursed upon final reconciliation and invoicing. We benefit from
this arrangement because we have a commitment to American Airlines to purchase a minimum
number of miles under the AAirPass program, and the miles used by these related parties
are counted toward fulfilling that commitment. Our Audit Committee has reviewed and
approved this arrangement.
Personnel
During 2004, Ross Perot, Jr. reimbursed Perot
Systems $68,602 for costs of Perot Systems personnel for time expended on matters not directly related to Perot Systems matters. These costs include a
proportionate share of Perot Systems cost of benefits and other employee related expenses.
Employment of Law Firm
During 2004, we paid Carrington Coleman Sloman &
Blumenthal LLP $166,199 for legal services. A partner in that firm is the spouse of Peter Altabef, President and Chief Executive Officer of Perot
Systems. Our Audit Committee has reviewed and approved the use of Carrington Coleman Sloman & Blumenthal LLP to provide legal services to the
Company.
20
REPORT OF THE HUMAN RESOURCES AND COMPENSATION COMMITTEE
OF THE BOARD OF
DIRECTORS
ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
March 2, 2005
Introduction
The Human Resources and Compensation Committee of
the Board is providing this report to assist our stockholders in understanding Perot Systems objectives and procedures in the establishment and
operation of the compensation policy for our executive officers.
Human Resources and Compensation Committee
In March 2002, the Board of Directors established
the Compensation Committee, which was renamed the Human Resources and Compensation Committee in 2004. The primary responsibilities of the committee,
which is composed entirely of independent directors within the meanings of the listing standards of the New York Stock Exchange and Perot Systems
Director Independence Standard, are to assist the Board of Directors in discharging its responsibilities relating to the compensation of our
associates, review and make final determinations with respect to the compensation of the Chairman and the Chief Executive Officer, and to review and
make recommendations to the Board of Directors on the compensation of other executive officers and outside directors, bonus and retirement plans, the
1999 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, and the 2001 Long-Term Incentive Plan. In addition, during 2004, the committees responsibilities were
increased to include reviewing Perot Systems succession planning and talent development processes, and reviewing Perot Systems progress in
promoting diversity. In discharging these responsibilities, the committee was advised by our Human Resources organization. In addition, the committee
has engaged an independent compensation consultant as its advisor.
Compensation Philosophy and Objectives
Perot Systems has a core compensation philosophy
that underpins our approach to compensating our associates, including our executive officers. Our policy is to develop an executive compensation
program that is competitive with comparable information technology companies with whom we compete for executive talent, but with appropriate variations
based on individual and corporate performance. We believe that the compensation of our executive officers should:
|
|
Have stock as a key component; |
|
|
Be cost effective and minimize fixed salary, while maximizing
variable pay which tracks to business results and individual performance; |
|
|
Be comparable with our industry peers to ensure market
competitiveness; |
|
|
Attract, retain and motivate high-caliber executives on a
long-term basis; and |
|
|
Align with the business strategy of our company. |
Perot Systems has historically avoided most of the
perquisites typically provided to corporate managers, especially members of top management. Perot Systems senior managers have no company cars or
airplanes, executive dining room, paid country club memberships, matching charitable or educational contributions, paid financial counseling, or tax
planning or return preparation assistance.
21
2004 Executive Compensation Program Overview
As in prior years, our 2004 executive compensation
program comprised three key components: base salary, a short-term incentive program, and long-term incentive programs. Perot Systems philosophy
is to position the aggregate of these elements at a level that is competitive with peer information technology services companies. The committee
reviews the reasonableness of total compensation levels and practices using public information from the proxy statements of peer information technology
services companies and published information from various nationally recognized compensation surveys. Our peer group includes all of the U.S.-based
companies in the Coredata Group Information Technology Services Index, which was used in the preparation of our Performance Graph, except those that
are substantially smaller than Perot Systems. In addition, Perot Systems included in its peer set other comparably sized companies with which Perot
Systems competes.
Base Salary
Base salary is a core component of our compensation
program. Base salary rewards associates for effective performance in their current role and is adjusted over time as a consequence of that performance
and also changes in responsibility. We set and adjust base salary based on the following principles:
|
|
The base salaries of all associates, including executive
officers, reflect market levels in order to ensure competitiveness and consistency. |
|
|
Specific salary levels vary by individual, according to
experience, responsibility level, and individual performance towards the attainment of corporate goals and objectives. |
In light of these considerations, executive officers
received salary increases in 2004 averaging 3.0% of salary, which was consistent with increases received by associates generally.
Short-Term Incentive Program
Perot Systems short-term incentive program is
an annual bonus plan. Perot Systems and the committee review the design of the annual bonus plan annually, but always link the plan to principles of
corporate and individual performance.
|
|
Perot Systems and the committee set corporate financial and
strategic goals during the first quarter of each plan year as well as the overall framework of the plan. We then use these goals to determine the basic
payments after the end of the plan year. We also consider factors such as the financial targets and corporate contribution of business units, which may
be recognized in our plan design. |
|
|
Perot Systems and the committee also consider individual
performance as the other key criterion in determining payments under the plan. Perot Systems and the committee consider the contribution of individual
associates and their attainment of designated goals as the means by which Perot Systems meets its corporate objectives. Associates are attributed
individual goals and annual performance ratings and any payments reflect such goals and ratings. |
As in prior years, the annual bonus plan for 2004
reflects corporate, business unit, and individual performance. Perot Systems and the committee established specific financial goals for 2004 bonus
purposes in regards to its revenue, earnings per share, free cash flow, and the value of new contract signings, which were weighted equally. Perot
Systems also established target bonus awards for executive officers, with potential awards ranging from 0% to 200% of target levels. The committee has
the discretion to adjust the amounts payable under the plan to take into account circumstances arising during the year. Individual payments were
assessed against these design criteria. With respect to bonuses related to 2004 performance, our executive officers will receive payments commensurate
with exceeding all of the financial goals outlined above, after a discretionary reduction by the committee that was consistent with managements
recommendation.
22
Long-Term Incentive Programs
Perot Systems regards the holding of stock as a key
consideration for executive officers. We believe that stock ownership helps fundamentally to align executive behaviors and the achievement of corporate
objectives with our stockholders. Stock rewards long-term commitment to the successful performance of an organization. It is, therefore, a major
component of our executive compensation program.
We use stock-based awards under an annual grant
program. We consider executive officers, like all other associates, for awards on the basis of their contribution and responsibility level and
reference to the external market. In 2004, Perot Systems awarded restricted shares in addition to stock options to reflect market trends and external
developments. The restricted shares vest over five years subject to achievement of individual performance goals. Perot Systems has also established
share ownership requirements for executive officers that are based on these restricted stock awards to support our core philosophy of stock
ownership.
The short-term and long-term incentive programs are
both operated at the discretion of Perot Systems.
Compensation of the Chief Executive Officers
Ross Perot, Jr. was President and Chief Executive
Officer effective September 1, 2000 until he was appointed Chairman of the Board on September 22, 2004. He remains an executive officer of Perot
Systems. Mr. Perots base salary as President and Chief Executive Officer for 2004 was $515,000, increased by 3% from $500,000, which was below
market levels and based on Perot Systems historical compensation of its Chief Executive Officers. In his new role as Chairman, Mr. Perot will
continue to receive a base salary of $515,000, which the committee believes to be consistent with a competitive range for his new position. Based on
Perot Systems results against the financial criteria established for 2004 bonus purposes as mentioned above, and in light of the committees
evaluation of Mr. Perots leadership and individual performance, the committee approved an annual bonus of $720,000 for Mr. Perot, which reflected
the time he served as President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Perot is not eligible to earn annual bonus awards in his capacity as Chairman. In
light of various considerations, including prior stock option awards, Mr. Perot received no long-term incentive awards in 2004.
Peter Altabef, formerly Vice President, General
Counsel and Secretary, was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer on September 22, 2004. At the time of his promotion, the committee approved
an increase in Mr. Altabefs salary from $352,000 to $500,000, which is below market levels and is based on the previous salary level of the
former President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Altabefs target bonus award was also increased at that time to the level of the former
President and Chief Executive Officer. Based on Perot Systems results against the financial criteria established for 2004 bonus purposes as
mentioned above, and in light of the committees evaluation of Mr. Altabefs individual performance, the committee approved an annual bonus
of $661,000 for Mr. Altabef, which comprises $374,000 paid with respect to service as General Counsel and $287,000 paid with respect to service as
President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Altabef received 100,000 stock options and 100,000 restricted shares in 2004, subject to the same terms and
conditions as awards received by other executive officers. The committee approved these awards both in light of Mr. Altabefs role as Chief
Executive Officer and his promotion in 2004.
Deductibility of Compensation
Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code limits
deductibility of compensation in excess of $1 million paid to Perot Systems Chief Executive Officer and to each of the other four highest-paid
executive officers unless this compensation qualifies as performance-based. The committee believes that appropriate actions have been taken
to date to preserve the deductibility of compensation of senior officers. The committee will continue to review the potential deductibility of
compensation but retains the discretion to award compensation that may not be deductible if it believes such action is in the best interest of Perot
Systems and its stockholders.
23
Conclusion
Our compensation policy and resultant payments
directly reflect the performance of Perot Systems and its individual executive officers. It is our belief that our compensation policy serves the best
interests of our stockholders and Perot Systems.
HUMAN RESOURCES AND
COMPENSATION
COMMITTEE:
Carl Hahn (Chair)
DeSoto Jordan
Thomas
Meurer
SECTION
16(a) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING REQUIREMENT
Our directors, executive officers, and holders of
more than 10% of our Class A Common Stock must file reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission indicating the number of shares of Perot
Systems Class A Common Stock they beneficially own and any changes in their beneficial ownership. They must provide copies of these reports to
us. Based on our review of these reports and written representations from the persons required to file them, we believe that all Section 16(a)
Securities and Exchange Commission filing requirements applicable to our directors and executive officers for fiscal 2004 were timely met except that
each of Messrs. Blasnik, Hahn, Meurer, Freeman, Renzi, King, Williams, Anderson and Robert Kelly reported one Section 16 transaction late due to an
administrative error on the part of the Company. Messrs. Altabef and Champy each reported two Section 16 transactions late due to administrative errors
on the part of the Company.
24
PERFORMANCE GRAPH
The graph below compares the performance of our
Class A Common Stock since December 31, 1999.
ASSUMES
$100 INVESTED ON DEC. 31, 1999
ASSUMES DIVIDEND REINVESTED
FISCAL YEAR ENDING DEC. 31, 2004
(1) |
|
The Coredata (formerly known as Media General) Group Information
Technology Services Index. |
25
Equity Compensation Plan Information
The following table gives information about our
Class A Common Stock that we may issue under our equity compensation plans as of December 31, 2004.
Plan Category
|
|
|
|
Number of Securities to be Issued Upon Exercise of
Outstanding Options, Warrants, and Rights
|
|
Weighted-Average Exercise Price of Outstanding Options,
Warrants, and Rights
|
|
Number of Securities Remaining Available for Future
Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans (Excluding Securities Reflected in Column (a))
|
|
|
|
|
(a) |
|
(b) |
|
(c) |
Equity
Compensation Plans Approved by Security Holders |
|
|
|
|
9,547,798 |
(1) |
|
$ |
13.71 |
|
|
|
41,134,137 |
(2) |
Equity
Compensation Plans Not Approved by Security Holders |
|
|
|
|
20,356,122 |
|
|
$ |
15.13 |
|
|
|
789,855 |
(3) |
Total |
|
|
|
|
29,903,920 |
|
|
$ |
14.68 |
|
|
|
41,923,992 |
|
(1) |
|
Excludes 573,615 restricted stock units that have been granted
under the 2001 Long-Term Incentive Plan. |
(2) |
|
Includes 24,089,719 shares available to be issued under the 2001
Long-Term Incentive Plan and 17,044,418 shares available to be issued under the 1999 Employee Stock Purchase Plan. |
(3) |
|
Includes 464,000 shares available to be issued under the 1996
Non-Employee Director Stock Option/Restricted Stock Plan and 325,855 shares available to be issued under other plans. |
We have five equity plans or arrangements that have
not been approved by our stockholders. Under one arrangement, our non-employee directors may elect to have all or a portion of their director retainers
paid in our Class A Common Stock, valued at such stocks closing market price on the last day of the fiscal quarter to which the retainer
installment relates.
Our 1996 Non-Employee Director Plan, which was
adopted prior to our initial public offering in 1999 and remains active, provides for issuance of up to 800,000 restricted shares or options to
purchase our Class A Common Stock to our non-employee directors (other than Ross Perot). Under the plan, each eligible director currently receives an
option to purchase 8,000 shares of our Class A Common Stock upon election, and subsequent awards are made upon the completion of vesting of the
directors prior awards. Awards have an exercise price equal to the fair market value on the date of the award and vest one year following the
award. In lieu of receiving an option, each director has the option to purchase 8,000 shares of restricted stock which vest in one year, at a purchase
price equal to the fair market on the date of the award. Payment is due at the time of the award. No director has elected to purchase restricted shares
since 1998. Awards under the 1996 Non-Employee Director Plan prior to June 2003 were for 40,000 options or restricted shares, which vest over five
years.
The remaining plans were also adopted prior to Perot
Systems initial public offering in 1999 and were terminated in 2001, except to the extent that they govern options or restricted shares that were
outstanding at the time of the termination of such plans. Our 1991 Stock Option Plan provided for the issuance of options to eligible employees and
were generally issued at not less than the fair market value on the date of grant. Our Restricted Stock Plan, which was adopted in 1988, provided
eligible employees with the opportunity to purchase our stock at its fair market value (determined pursuant to a third-party appraisal). Unvested
restricted shares are generally subject to repurchase at cost plus eight percent upon termination of employment. These grants or awards had vesting
periods of from three to 10 years. Our Advisor Plan provided for the grant of options and the sale of restricted shares to advisors and consultants on
substantially the same terms as those provided to employees under the 1991 Stock Option Plan and the Restricted Stock Plan.
26
REPORT OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE
OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
March 3, 2005
The Audit Committee of our Board of Directors
(Board) is composed of three directors and operates under a written charter adopted by our Board. All members of the Audit Committee meet
the independence standards established by our Board, the New York Stock Exchange and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Our Board adopted revisions to the
Audit Committees charter in 2004, and the new charter is included as Annex 1 to this Proxy Statement and is available at the Corporate
Responsibility section on Perot Systems website at www.perotsystems.com/responsibility.
Perot Systems management is responsible for,
among other things, preparing its consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of
America (GAAP), establishing and maintaining internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f)), and
evaluating the effectiveness of such internal control over financial reporting. Perot Systems independent registered public accounting firm is
responsible for auditing the consolidated financial statements in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board
(United States) and for expressing an opinion on the conformity of the financial statements with GAAP. The independent registered public accounting
firm is also responsible for auditing Perot Systems internal control over financial reporting in accordance with such standards and for
expressing an opinion on (i) managements assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting and (ii) the
effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting. The Audit Committee assists the Board of Directors in fulfilling its responsibility to
oversee managements implementation of Perot Systems financial reporting process. In its oversight role, the Audit Committee reviewed and
discussed the audited financial statements with management and with PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (PwC), Perot Systems independent
registered public accounting firm for 2004. The Audit Committee also reviewed and discussed Perot Systems internal control over financial
reporting with management and with PwC.
The Audit Committee has met privately with PwC and
discussed any issues deemed significant by the independent registered public accounting firm, including the required matters to be discussed by
Statement of Auditing Standards No. 61, Communication With Audit Committee, as amended. PwC has provided to the Audit Committee written
disclosures and the letter required by Independence Standards Board No. 1, Independence Discussions with Audit Committees, and the Audit
Committee discussed with PwC that firms independence. The Audit Committee also concluded that PwCs provision of non-audit services to Perot
Systems and its affiliates is compatible with PwCs independence.
Based upon the foregoing considerations, the Audit
Committee recommended to our Board that the audited financial statements be included in Perot Systems Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal
year ended December 31, 2004 for filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission and appointed PwC the independent registered public accounting firm
for the Company for 2005.
The foregoing report is respectfully submitted by
members of the Audit Committee of our Board:
AUDIT COMMITTEE
C. H. Moore, Jr. (Chair)
John S.T.
Gallagher
Carl Hahn
27
STOCKHOLDER PROPOSALS FOR THE 2005 ANNUAL MEETING
AND FOR THE 2006 ANNUAL
MEETING
Under Article II, Section 4 of our current bylaws,
proposals by stockholders intended to be presented at the Annual Meeting must be received by Perot Systems Secretary at our executive offices no
later than the close of business on April 11, 2005.
If you would like to include a stockholder proposal
in the proxy statement for the 2006 annual meeting, it must be delivered to Perot Systems Secretary at our executive offices no later than
December 1, 2005.
OTHER MATTERS
Other Business
At the date of mailing of this Proxy Statement, we
are not aware of any business to be presented at the Annual Meeting other than the proposals discussed above. If other proposals are properly brought
before the Annual Meeting, any proxies returned to us will be voted as the proxy holders see fit.
New York Stock Exchange Disclosure
Requirements
Perot Systems submitted to the New York Stock
Exchange (NYSE) during 2004 a certification of its Chief Executive Officer regarding compliance with the NYSEs corporate governance
listing standards. Perot Systems also included as exhibits to its annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, the certifications of its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer required under Section 302 of the
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
Householding of Proxy
Materials
In a further effort to reduce printing costs and
postage fees, we have adopted a practice approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission called householding. Under this practice,
stockholders who have the same address and last name will receive only one copy of our proxy materials, unless one or more of these stockholders
notifies us that he or she wishes to continue receiving individual copies. Stockholders who participate in householding will continue to receive
separate proxy cards.
If you share an address with another stockholder and
received only one set of proxy materials and would like to request a separate copy of our proxy materials please: (1) mail your request to Perot
Systems Investor Relations, 2300 West Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75075; or (2) contact our Investor Relations Department at 1-877-737-6973. Similarly,
you may also contact us if you received multiple copies of the proxy materials and would prefer to receive a single copy in the
future.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
We file reports, proxy statements, and other
information with the SEC. You can read and copy these reports, proxy statements, and other information concerning Perot Systems at the SECs
public reference room at 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the public
reference room. The SEC maintains an Internet site at http://www.sec.gov/ that contains reports, proxy, and information statements and other
information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC, including Perot Systems. Our Class A Common Stock is listed on the NYSE. These
reports, proxy statement, and other information are also available for inspection at the offices of the NYSE, 20 Broad Street, New York, New York
10005.
28
In addition, our annual report on Form 10-K
(without exhibits) is available via the Internet at our website (www.perotsystems.com). If you would like to request documents from us, please
contact our Investor Relations Department at 1-877-737-6973 by April 15, 2005 to receive them before the Annual Meeting.
BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Thomas D. Williams
Secretary
29
ANNEX 1
PEROT SYSTEMS CORPORATION
CHARTER OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE
OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The purpose of the Audit Committee
(the Committee) is to assist the Perot Systems Corporation (Perot Systems) Board of Directors (Board) oversight of:
A. |
|
The integrity of Perot Systems financial
statements; |
B. |
|
Perot Systems compliance with applicable legal and
regulatory requirements; |
C. |
|
The performance of Perot Systems independent auditor and
internal audit department; and |
D. |
|
The independent auditors qualifications and
independence. |
The Committee will prepare a report required by the
SEC for inclusion in the Perot Systems annual proxy statement.
II. |
|
STRUCTURE AND OPERATIONS. |
A. Size. The Committee shall
comprise three or more members of the Board, as determined by the Board after considering the recommendation, if any, of the Nominating and Corporate
Governance Committee.
B. Appointment and Removal
of Members. The Board shall appoint the members of the Committee from qualified members of the Board. Each member of the Committee shall serve
until such members successor is duly elected and qualified or until such members earlier resignation or removal. Any or all members of the
Committee may be removed, with or without cause, by a majority vote of the Board.
C. Qualifications. The
membership of the Committee must have the following qualifications, as determined by the Board:
1. |
|
Each member must be independent in accordance with
Perot Systems Corporate Governance Principles, the rules of the New York Stock Exchange, Inc. (the NYSE), Section 10A(m)(3) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act), and the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission
(the Commission), including being free from any material relationship that would interfere with the exercise of his or her independent
judgment. Persons are not independent if, within the past three years: |
(a) |
|
The person was an employee, or an immediate family member was an
executive officer, of Perot Systems; |
(b) |
|
The person, or an immediate family member, received more than
$100,000 in direct compensation from Perot Systems (other than for directors fees) in a year; |
(c) |
|
The person was affiliated with or employed by, or an immediate
family member was affiliated with or employed in a professional capacity by, a present or former internal or external auditor of Perot
Systems; |
A-1
(d) |
|
The person was employed by, or an immediate family member was an
executive officer of, a company of which any of Perot Systems present executives serve on the other companys compensation committee;
or |
(e) |
|
The person was employed by, or an immediate family member was an
executive officer of, another company that makes payments to, or receives payments from, Perot Systems for property or services in an amount which in
any fiscal year, exceeds the greater of $1,000,000 or five percent of such other companys consolidated gross revenues. |
2. |
|
Each member will be financially literate, or become
financially literate within a reasonable period of time after his or her appointment to the Committee. |
3. |
|
At least one member will be an audit committee financial
expert, as defined by the Commission. |
4. |
|
No member will simultaneously serve on the audit committee of
more than two other public companies without the approval of the full Board. |
5. |
|
Any additional qualifications required by Perot Systems
Corporate Governance Principles, the NYSE, the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations of the Commission. |
D. Chair. Unless a
Chair is elected by the full Board, the members of the Committee shall designate a Chair by majority vote of the full Committee membership. The Chair
will chair all regular sessions of the Committee and set the agendas for Committee meetings, based upon consultations with management, the independent
auditor, and the director of internal audit and upon any input received from the members of the Committee. If a Chair is not designated or is not
present at any meeting, the members of the Committee may designate a chairman for such meeting by majority vote of the Committee.
E. Delegation. The
Committee shall be entitled to delegate certain of its responsibilities, where appropriate, to the Chair or to one or more other members of the
Committee, subject to policies
and/or procedures adopted by the Committee, which shall be consistent with applicable legal and regulatory
requirements.
F. Funding. Perot
Systems shall provide for appropriate funding, as determined by the Committee, for payment of (a) compensation to the independent auditor for the
purpose of rendering or issuing an audit report or related work or performing other audit, review, attest and related services for Perot Systems, (b)
compensation to the independent auditor for engagements pre-approved in accordance with Perot Systems policy Restrictions on the Engagement
of Audit Firm, (c) other consultants or experts employed by the Committee and (d) ordinary administrative expenses of the Committee that are
necessary or appropriate in carrying out its duties.
A. Frequency; Notice; Quorum. The Committee shall meet at least quarterly, or more frequently as circumstances
dictate. The Chair or any member of the Committee may call meetings of the Committee upon at least 48 hours notice, which may be delivered by
mail, courier service, fax, email, or telephone, as long as the means of delivery utilized would normally result in all members having at least 48
hours notice of the meeting. Meetings of the Committee may be held telephonically. A majority of the members of the Committee will constitute a
quorum.
B. Attendance of
Non-Members. The Committee may invite to its meetings any director, any manager of Perot Systems and any other persons it deems appropriate in
order to carry out its responsibilities. The Committee may also exclude from its meetings any persons it deems appropriate in order to carry out its
responsibilities.
A-2
C. Executive Sessions.
The Committee shall meet with management, the director of the internal auditing department and the independent auditor, in separate executive sessions,
as required by applicable law, regulation, exchange listing rules and in such other instances that the Committee deems appropriate.
IV. |
|
RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES. |
The following functions shall be
within the power of the Committee in carrying out its purposes outlined in Section I of this Charter. These functions should serve as a guide with the
understanding that the Committee may carry out additional functions and adopt additional or different policies and procedures as may be appropriate in
light of changing business, legislative, regulatory, legal or other conditions. The Committee shall also have such further powers as may be delegated
to it by the Board from time to time related to the purposes of the Committee outlined in Section I of this Charter.
The Committee, in discharging its oversight role, is
empowered to study or investigate any matter of interest or concern, including but not limited to issues arising from section IV (D)(3), that the
Committee deems appropriate. The Committee shall have independent authority to retain outside counsel or other experts for this purpose and
unrestricted access to Perot Systems employees, documents and other information. Perot Systems will pay the fees and out-of-pocket expenses
associated with any study or investigation conducted by the Committee, including fees and expenses of the Committees outside counsel and other
experts. The Committee is authorized to perform, oversee the performance of, and engage the independent auditor or third parties to perform such
supplemental or additional work as the Committee may from time to time determine to be appropriate.
A. Financial Statements
and Disclosure Matters.
1. |
|
Review and discuss with management, the internal audit
department and the independent auditor the annual and quarterly financial statements, including disclosures made in Managements Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, prior to the annual and quarterly financial statements being filed in Perot Systems
Forms 10-K and Forms 10-Q, as applicable. In connection with these reviews, the Committee will: |
(a) |
|
Review and discuss with the independent auditor (i) all critical
accounting policies and practices to be used, (ii) all alternative treatments of financial information within generally accepted accounting principles
(GAAP) that have been discussed with management, ramifications of the use of such alternative disclosures and treatments, and the treatment
preferred by the independent auditor, (iii) the internal controls adhered to by Perot Systems, management and the financial, accounting and internal
auditing personnel of Perot Systems, and the impact of the system of internal controls on the quality and reliability of Perot Systems financial
reporting and (iv) other material written communications between the independent auditor and management, such as any management letter or schedule of
unadjusted differences. |
(b) |
|
Review and discuss with management, the independent auditor and,
to the extent applicable, the internal auditing department (i) significant accounting principles and financial statement presentations, including any
significant changes in Perot Systems selection or application of accounting principles, (ii) significant financial reporting issues and judgments
made in connection with the preparation of Perot Systems financial statements, including the effect of alternative GAAP methods on the financial
statements, (iii) the development, selection and disclosure of critical accounting estimates and the analyses of alternative assumptions or estimates,
and the effect of such estimates on Perot Systems financial statements, (iv) the effect of regulatory and accounting initiatives, as well as
off-balance sheet structures, on the financial statements of Perot Systems, (v) any pro forma or adjusted non-GAAP information
contained in Perot Systems periodic |
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reports, (vi) the effect of significant litigation,
contingencies and claims against Perot Systems on Perot Systems financial statements and (vii) audit problems or difficulties and
managements response to such problems and difficulties. |
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Discuss with management and the independent auditor Perot
Systems earnings press releases, including the use, if any, of pro forma or adjusted non-GAAP information. In addition,
the Committee will discuss with management financial information and earnings guidance provided to analysts and rating agencies. Such discussions may
be done generally (consisting of discussing the types of information to be disclosed and the types of presentations to be made). |
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Discuss with management Perot Systems major financial risk
exposures and the steps management has taken to monitor and control such exposures, including Perot Systems risk assessment and risk management
policies. |
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Obtain from the independent auditor the information required to
be disclosed to Perot Systems by generally accepted auditing standards (GAAS) in connection with the conduct of an audit and discuss with
the independent auditor the matters required to be discussed by Statement on Auditing Standards No. 61, including (i) the independent auditors
responsibility under GAAS, (ii) Perot Systems significant accounting policies, (iii) accounting estimates, assumptions and judgments used in
preparing Perot Systems financial statements, (iv) significant audit adjustments discovered and (v) disagreements with management encountered in
the course of the audit. |
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Receive and review the Section 302 certifications of Perot
Systems Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, or other persons performing similar functions, included in Perot Systems Forms
10-K and Forms 10-Q. |
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The Committee is appointed by the Board to be directly
responsible for the appointment, termination, compensation and oversight of the independent auditor of Perot Systems in connection with their
preparation or issuance of audit reports and the performance of other audit, review, attest and related services for Perot Systems. The Committee is
also responsible for approving, evaluating and overseeing the work of the independent auditor (including the audit plan and any subsequent changes in
the audit plan) and resolving any disagreements between management and the independent auditor regarding Perot Systems financial reporting
process, internal controls and financial statements. The independent auditor reports directly to the Committee. |
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Pre-approve engagements for, and set policies and procedures for
engagements relating to, audit, review or attest services and permitted non-audit services and the terms and fees thereof, which may include
pre-approval of categories of non-audit services with aggregate authorized expenditures, to be performed for Perot Systems or its subsidiaries by the
independent auditor, subject to the de minimis exceptions for permitted non-audit services described in Section 10A(i)(1)(B) of the Exchange
Act. |
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Review the experience and qualifications of the senior members
of the independent auditors team to determine that the team has the competence necessary to conduct the audit engagement in accordance with
GAAS. |
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Obtain and review a report from the independent auditor at least
annually regarding (a) the independent auditors internal quality-control procedures, (b) any material issues raised by the most recent internal
quality-control review, or peer review, of the firm, or by any inquiry or |
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investigation by governmental or professional authorities,
within the preceding five years respecting one or more independent audits carried out by the firm, and any steps taken to deal with any such issues and
(c) all relationships between the independent auditor and Perot Systems or any of its affiliates, including the written disclosures and the letter
required by Independence Standards Board Standard 1, as it may be amended from time to time, and any successor to such standard. The Committee will
evaluate the qualifications, performance and independence of the independent auditor, including considering whether the auditors quality controls
are adequate and the provision of permitted non-audit services is compatible with maintaining the auditors independence. In making this
evaluation, the Committee should take into account the opinions of management and the internal audit department. The Committee presents its conclusions
to the Board. |
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Oversee the rotation of the lead audit partner, the concurring
review partner and each other audit partner who has responsibility for decision-making on significant auditing, accounting and reporting matters that
affect the financial statements or who maintain regular contact with management and the Committee as required by applicable law, regulation or exchange
listing rules. |
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Recommend and oversee Perot Systems written policies for
hiring employees or former employees of the independent auditor who have participated in any capacity in an audit of Perot Systems. |
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If necessary or appropriate, review any communications between
the independent audit team and its national office regarding auditing or accounting issues presented by the engagement. |
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Discuss with management, the internal audit department and the
independent auditor any accounting adjustments that were noted or proposed by the independent auditor, but were passed (as immaterial or
otherwise). |
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Discuss with the independent auditor any difficulties the
independent auditor encountered in the course of the audit work, including any restrictions on the scope of the independent auditors activities
or on access to requested information, and any significant disagreements with management. |
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Discuss with the independent auditor the responsibilities,
budget and staffing of the internal audit function. |
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Require the independent auditor to review the financial
information included in Perot Systems Forms 10-Q in accordance with Rule 10-01(d) of Regulation S-X prior to Perot Systems filing such reports
with the Commission. If Perot Systems states in a Form 10-Q that the interim financial statements have been reviewed by the independent auditor, the
Committee will obtain the independent auditors report as required by Rule 10-01(d). |
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Internal Audit Department and Legal
Compliance. |
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Review the budget, plan, changes in plan, material activities,
organizational structure, and qualifications of the internal audit department, as needed. |
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Review the performance of, and make recommendations to the
management of Perot Systems regarding, the appointment, performance, and retention, of the director of internal audit. |
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Review significant reports prepared by the internal audit
department together with managements response and follow-up to these reports. |
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On at least an annual basis, review with Perot Systems
counsel (a) any legal matters that could have a significant impact on the organizations financial statements, (b) Perot Systems compliance
with internal corporate governance policies and applicable laws and regulations and (c) inquiries received from and correspondence with regulators,
governmental agencies and employees raising material issues with respect to Perot Systems financial reporting process, internal controls and
financial statements. On at least an annual basis, review with Perot Systems Tax Director any tax matters that could have a significant impact on
the organizations financial statements. |
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Obtain presentations from management and Perot Systems
internal audit director concerning Perot Systems compliance with applicable legal requirements and Perot Systems Standards & Ethical
Principles. Obtain and review presentations regarding, and disclosures of, insider and affiliated party transactions. |
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Obtain from the independent auditor the reports required to be
furnished to the Committee under Section 10A of the Exchange Act and obtain from the independent auditor any information with respect to illegal acts
in accordance with Section 10A. |
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Other Committee Responsibilities, and Clarification of
Role. |
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Oversee the integrity of the audit process, financial reporting
process, internal controls and financial statements of Perot Systems, and the work of management, the internal audit department and the independent
auditor in these areas, as applicable. |
2. |
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Review and approve procedures, including but not limited to a
confidential, anonymous hotline, for (a) the receipt, retention and treatment of complaints received by Perot Systems regarding accounting, internal
accounting controls or auditing matters, and (b) the confidential, anonymous submission by employees of Perot Systems of concerns regarding
questionable accounting or auditing matters. |
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Review managements report regarding the internal controls
and procedures for financial reporting of Perot Systems as required by the rules and regulations of the Commission. |
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Report regularly to the Board (i) following meetings of the
Committee, (ii) with respect to such other matters as are relevant to the Committees discharge of its responsibilities, and (iii) with respect to
such recommendations as the Committee may deem appropriate. The report to the Board may take the form of an oral report by the Chair or any other
member of the Committee designated by the Committee to make such report. |
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Ensure that (i) the Perot Systems website includes a copy of
this Charter and (ii) Perot Systems annual report states that a copy of this Charter is available on the Perot Systems website and available in
print upon request. |
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Maintain minutes or other records of meetings and activities of
the Committee. |
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ANNUAL PERFORMANCE EVALUATION. |
The Committee shall perform a review and evaluation,
at least annually, of the performance of the Committee, including by reviewing the compliance of the Committee with this Charter. In conducting its
evaluation, the Committee may address all matters that it considers relevant to its performance. In addition,
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the Committee shall review and reassess, at least annually, the
adequacy of this Charter and recommend to the Board any improvements to this Charter that the Committee considers necessary or desirable. |
A. Reliance. Nothing
in this Charter will, or will be deemed to, decrease or modify in any manner adverse to any member of the Committee, such members right to rely
on statements and certifications made by Perot Systems officers, employees, agents, counsel, experts and auditors.
B. Indemnification.
Nothing in this Charter will, or will be deemed to, adversely affect in any manner the rights of members of the Committee to indemnification and
advancement of expenses under the Certificate of Incorporation or Bylaws of Perot Systems or under any contract, agreement, arrangement or
understanding benefiting such member.
C. No Creation of Duties,
Liabilities, or Obligations. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Charter, no provision of this Charter will, except to the extent required
by applicable law, rule or regulation, be construed to create any duty, liability or obligation on the part of the Committee or any of its
members.
D. Committee Is Not an
Auditor. While the Committee has the responsibilities, duties and powers set forth in this Charter, it is not the duty of the Committee to plan or
conduct audits or to determine that Perot Systems financial statements are complete and accurate and are in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles. Perot Systems financial statements are the responsibility of its management, and the independent auditor is responsible
for the annual audit of those statements and for performing other audit, review or attest services pre-approved by the Committee. Nor is it the duty of
the Committee to conduct investigations (unless specific circumstances are brought to its attention warranting such a review) or to assure compliance
with laws and regulations.
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Directions to Perot Systems Plano Campus
From DFW
International Airport:
Take International Parkway (the one main road running north-south through DFW
Airport) North to I-635 East.
Continue East on I-635.
Take Exit #27B to I-35E North.
Take Exit #443 to President George Bush Turnpike (TX 190) heading East.
Drive East on President George Bush Turnpike (TX 190) to Plano.
Exit at Custer Parkway.
Turn Left on Custer Parkway to go North.
At Plano Parkway turn Left.
As you head West on Plano Parkway, Perot Systems Campus is on your
left.
Use the first left turn lane entering the Campus parking lot. Once entering the
parking lot, proceed to the west end of the parking lot and enter the Campus through the West Lobby.
From Downtown Dallas:
Proceed North on North Central Expressway (IH-75).
Take exit #28B to President George Bush Turnpike going West.
Take the first exitCuster Parkway. Proceed West on the service road to the
light at Custer Parkway.
Turn Right on Custer Parkway.
Turn Left at the first light (Plano Parkway).
As you head West on Plano Parkway, Perot Systems Campus is on your
left.
Use the first left turn lane entering the Campus parking lot. Once entering the
parking lot, proceed to the west end of the parking lot and enter the Campus through the West Lobby.
PEROT SYSTEMS CORPORATION
2300 W. PLANO PARKWAY
PLANO, TEXAS 75075
VOTE BY INTERNET www.proxyvote.com
Use the Internet to
transmit your voting instructions and for electronic delivery of information
until 11:59 P.M. Eastern Time on May 10, 2005. 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 Perot Systems Corporation 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 until 11:59 P.M. Eastern Time on
May 10, 2005. 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 Perot Systems Corporation, Attention: Legal Department, 2300 W.
Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75075.
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TO VOTE, MARK BLOCKS BELOW IN BLUE OR BLACK INK AS FOLLOWS: |
PERSYS |
KEEP THIS PORTION FOR YOUR RECORDS |
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DETACH AND RETURN THIS PORTION ONLY |
THIS PROXY CARD IS VALID ONLY WHEN SIGNED AND DATED. |
PEROT SYSTEMS CORPORATION
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THE DIRECTORS RECOMMEND A VOTE FOR THE ELECTION OF EACH OF THE NOMINEES LISTED BELOW. |
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For |
Withhold |
For All |
To withhold authority to vote for any individual nominee, mark For All Except and write the nominees number and name on the line below.
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PROPOSAL 1 |
To elect as Directors the nominees listed below.
01) Ross Perot
02) Ross Perot, Jr.
03) Peter A. Altabef
04) Steve Blasnik
05) John S.T. Gallagher
06) Carl Hahn
07) DeSoto Jordan
08) Thomas Meurer
09) Cecil H. (C. H.) Moore, Jr.
10) Anuroop (Tony) Singh |
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All
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For All
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Except
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THE DIRECTORS RECOMMEND A VOTE FOR PROPOSAL 2. |
For |
Against |
Abstain |
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PROPOSAL 2 |
To ratify the appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers
LLP as independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2005. |
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This proxy card must be signed for your instructions to be executed. Please sign
exactly as your name appears on your stock certificate(s). When shares are held
by joint tenants, both should sign. When signing as attorney, executor,
administrator, trustee or guardian, please give full title as such. If a
corporation, please sign in full corporate name by President or other authorized
officer. If a partnership, please sign in partnership name by authorized person. |
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Signature [PLEASE SIGN WITHIN BOX] |
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Signature (Joint Owners) |
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PEROT SYSTEMS CORPORATION
Proxy For Annual Meeting of Stockholders
May 11, 2005
THIS PROXY IS SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The undersigned stockholder(s) of Perot Systems Corporation hereby acknowledge(s) receipt of the Proxy Statement dated March 31,
2005, and hereby appoint(s) Thomas D. Williams, Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of Perot Systems, and Rex C. Mills,
Associate General Counsel of Perot Systems, or either of them, proxies, each with full power of substitution, and hereby authorize(s) them
to represent and to vote, as designated on the reverse side, all of the shares of Class A Common Stock of Perot Systems Corporation held
of record by the undersigned on March 14, 2005, at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held at the Corporate Headquarters Cafeteria,
2300 West Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75075, at 3:00 p.m. Central Daylight Time on May 11, 2005 or any adjournment thereof.
THIS PROXY WHEN PROPERLY EXECUTED WILL BE VOTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR INSTRUCTIONS AND IF
NO INSTRUCTIONS ARE GIVEN, THIS PROXY WILL BE VOTED FOR THE ELECTION OF ALL NOMINEES AND FOR THE
RATIFICATION OF THE APPOINTMENT OF PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS LLP AS OUR INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM. IF ANY OTHER MATTERS PROPERLY COME BEFORE THE MEETING, THE PERSONS
NAMED IN THIS PROXY WILL VOTE IN THEIR DISCRETION. YOU MAY REVOKE THIS PROXY AT ANY TIME PRIOR
TO THE VOTING THEREOF.
PLEASE MARK, SIGN AND DATE THIS PROXY AND RETURN IT PROMPTLY
IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE.
(Continued, and to be signed and dated, on the reverse side.)