UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

Form 10-Q

 

(Amendment No. 1)

 

(Mark One)

 

x       QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the quarterly period ended May 5, 2018

 

OR

 

o          TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

Commission File Number 000-51315

 

CITI TRENDS, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

DELAWARE

 

52-2150697

(State or other jurisdiction of

 

(I.R.S. Employer

incorporation or organization)

 

Identification No.)

 

104 Coleman Boulevard

 

 

Savannah, Georgia

 

31408

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

(Zip Code)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code ( 912) 236-1561

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes o No x

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes x No o

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Large Accelerated Filer o

 

Accelerated Filer x

 

 

 

Non-Accelerated Filer o

Smaller Reporting Company o

Emerging Growth Company o

 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. o

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes o No x

 

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

 

Class

 

Outstanding as of May 21, 2018

Common Stock, $.01 par value

 

13,676,910 shares

 

 

 


 

EXPLANATORY NOTE

 

Citi Trends, Inc. (the “Company”) is filing this Amendment No. 1 on Form 10-Q/A (“Amendment No. 1”) to amend its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended May 5, 2018, originally filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on June 11, 2018 (the “Original Quarterly Report”). The Company is filing this Amendment No. 1 (i) to disclose information under Item 5(a) of Part II of Form 10-Q relating to information that was required to be disclosed by the Company in a Current Report on Form 8-K during the period covered by the Original Quarterly Report, but which was not reported on a Form 8-K during that period, and (ii) to file as exhibits certain employment related agreements entered into with Brian Lattman and Christina Short, each a Senior Vice President and General Merchandise Manager, on or around March 30, 2018 that should have been filed with the Original Quarterly Report.

 

Except as described above, this Amendment No. 1 does not modify or update the disclosures presented in, or exhibits to, the Original Quarterly Report in any way. Those sections of the Original Quarterly Report that are unaffected by this Amendment No. 1 are not included herein. This Amendment No. 1 continues to speak as of the date of the Original Quarterly Report. Furthermore, this Amendment No. 1 does not reflect events occurring after the filing of the Original Quarterly Report. Accordingly, this Amendment No. 1 should be read in conjunction with the Original Quarterly Report, as well as the Company’s other filings made with the SEC pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act subsequent to the filing of the Original Quarterly Report.

 

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PART II — OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 5. Other Information.

 

As previously announced, in March 2018, Bruce D. Smith, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, and Stuart C. Clifford, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Company, each entered into a new Employment Non-Compete, Non-Solicit and Confidentiality Agreement and a new Severance Agreement with the Company in connection with their respective promotions at such time, and such agreements were filed in a Current Report on Form 8-K and incorporated by reference into the Original Quarterly Report.

 

On or around March 30, 2018, the Company entered into new Severance Agreements with each of Ivy D. Council, Executive Vice President of Human Resources and Chief Compliance Officer of the Company, Charles D. Crowell, Senior Vice President of Supply Chain of the Company, and James A. Dunn, Senior Vice President of Store Operations of the Company, in each case to make certain changes to incorporate current best practices that were made when Messrs. Smith and Clifford entered into new agreements in connection with their promotions (the “Severance Agreements”). The Severance Agreements replace and supersede the prior agreements in their entirety.  The changes were made to update certain health care coverage upon termination to remove references to COBRA payments and to make certain updates with respect to Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code.  Each Severance Agreement continues to provide that, if the Company terminates an executive’s employment without Cause (as defined in the Severance Agreement) or if the executive terminates his or her employment within twelve months of a Change in Control (as defined in the Severance Agreement), provided that within such period the executive’s job duties have been materially diminished or compensation has been materially decreased, the Company will provide the executive with separation payments of twelve months base salary, and will pay the executive the full monthly cost, less applicable tax withholdings, to maintain the same level of group health insurance maintained by the executive as of his or her separation from service for twelve months.  “Cause” generally means (i) commission of an act of fraud or dishonesty; (ii) conviction of a felony or a crime involving embezzlement, conversion of property or moral turpitude; (iii) engaging in willful or reckless misconduct or gross negligence in connection with Company property or activities which adversely affects the Company; (iv) material breach of any obligations as an employee or stockholder as set forth in certain Company policies; or (v) failure or refusal to perform any material duty or responsibility or a breach of fiduciary obligations to the Company.

 

On or around March 30, 2018, the Company also entered into new Employment Non-Compete, Non-Solicit and Confidentiality Agreements (the “Employment Non-Compete, Non-Solicit and Confidentiality Agreements”) with each of Ms. Council and Messrs. Crowell and Dunn, in each case to incorporate certain changes to reflect current best practices that were made when Messrs. Smith and Clifford entered into new agreements in connection with their promotions.  The Employment Non-Compete, Non-Solicit and Confidentiality Agreements replace and supersede the prior agreements in their entirety. The changes updated the information covered by each executive’s confidentiality obligations, clarified the terms of (and the Company’s specific reliance on) each executive’s non-compete obligations, and make certain other technical changes, including updates to ensure compliance with current laws.  Each Employment Non-Compete, Non-Solicit and Confidentiality Agreement continues to provide that, upon a separation from the Company, the executive will not disclose confidential information relating to the Company, will not compete with the Company or render similar services to a competitor of the Company for a period of one year, will not solicit any vendor or supplier of merchandise to the Company on behalf of a competitor for a period of eighteen months and will not recruit Company personnel for a period of two years.

 

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Item 6. Exhibits.

 

3.1

 

Amendment to the Second Amended and Restated By-laws (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on March 22, 2018).

 

 

 

10.1

 

Employment Non-Compete, Non-Solicit and Confidentiality Agreement between the Company and Bruce D. Smith dated March 15, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on March 16, 2018).

 

 

 

10.2

 

Severance Agreement between the Company and Bruce D. Smith, dated March 15, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on March 16, 2018).

 

 

 

10.3

 

Employment Non-Compete, Non-Solicit and Confidentiality Agreement between the Company and Stuart C. Clifford dated March 15, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on March 16, 2018).

 

 

 

10.4

 

Severance Agreement between the Company and Stuart C. Clifford, dated March 15, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on March 16, 2018).

 

 

 

10.5

 

Employment Non-Compete, Non-Solicit and Confidentiality Agreement between the Company and Ivy D. Council, dated March 26, 2018.*

 

 

 

10.6

 

Severance Agreement between the Company and Ivy D. Council, dated March 26, 2018.*

 

 

 

10.7

 

Employment Non-Compete, Non-Solicit and Confidentiality Agreement between the Company and James A. Dunn, dated March 27, 2018.*

 

 

 

10.8

 

Severance Agreement between the Company and James A. Dunn, dated March 27, 2018.*

 

 

 

10.9

 

Employment Non-Compete, Non-Solicit and Confidentiality Agreement between the Company and Charles D. Crowell, dated March 30, 2018.*

 

 

 

10.10

 

Severance Agreement between the Company and Charles D. Crowell, dated March 30, 2018.*

 

 

 

10.11

 

Employment Non-Compete, Non-Solicit and Confidentiality Agreement between the Company and Brian Lattman, dated March 30, 2018.*

 

 

 

10.12

 

Severance Agreement between the Company and Brian Lattman, dated March 30, 2018.*

 

 

 

10.13

 

Employment Non-Compete, Non-Solicit and Confidentiality Agreement between the Company and Christina Short, dated April 6, 2018.*

 

 

 

10.14

 

Severance Agreement between the Company and Christina Short, dated April 6, 2018.*

 

 

 

31.1

 

Certification of Bruce D. Smith, Chief Executive Officer, Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 31.1 to the Original Quarterly Report).

 

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31.2

 

Certification of Stuart C. Clifford, Chief Financial Officer, Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 31.2 to the Original Quarterly Report).

 

 

 

31.3

 

Certification of Bruce D. Smith, Chief Executive Officer, Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*

 

 

 

31.4

 

Certification of Stuart C. Clifford, Chief Financial Officer, Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*

 

 

 

32.1

 

Certifications Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 32.1 to the Original Quarterly Report).

 

 

 

101

 

The following financial information from Citi Trends, Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended May 5, 2018, formatted in Extensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL): (i) the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of May 5, 2018 and February 3, 2018, (ii) the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income for the thirteen week periods ended May 5, 2018 and April 29, 2017, (iii) the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the thirteen week periods ended May 5, 2018 and April 29, 2017, and (iv) Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 101 to the Original Quarterly Report).†

 


*    Included herewith.

 

†    Pursuant to Securities and Exchange Commission Release No. 33-8238, this certification will be treated as “accompanying” this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and not “filed” as part of such report for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, or otherwise subject to the liability of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and this certification will not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, except to the extent that the registrant specifically incorporates it by

 

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SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, and the undersigned also has signed this report in his capacity as the Registrant’s Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer).

 

 

CITI TRENDS, INC.

 

 

Date: March 15, 2019

 

 

 

 

By:

/s/ Stuart C. Clifford

 

Name:

Stuart C. Clifford

 

Title:

Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

 

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Exhibit 10.5

 

EMPLOYMENT NON-COMPETE, NON-SOLICIT AND CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT

 

This EMPLOYMENT NON-COMPETE, NON-SOLICIT AND CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT (“ Agreement ”) is entered into between Citi Trends, Inc., including its subsidiaries, affiliates, divisions, successors, and related entities (“ Company ”), and Ivy D. Council (“ Employee ”), effective as of the date signed by Employee below.

 

This Agreement is intended to and shall supersede and replace that certain Employment Non-Compete, Non-Solicit and Confidentiality Agreement between the Company and Employee dated as of May 1, 2013 (the “ Prior Confidentiality Agreement ”).

 

For and in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements contained herein, including, but not limited to, Company agreeing to employ and/or continuing to employ Employee, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties agree:

 

1.                                       Employment; Scope of Services .  Company shall employ and/or continue to employ Employee, and Employee shall be employed and/or continue to be employed by Company, as Executive Vice President, Human Resources.  Employee shall use his/her best efforts and shall devote his/her full time, attention, knowledge and skills to the faithful performance of his/her duties and responsibilities as a Company employee.  Employee shall have such authority and such other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Board of Directors.  Employee shall comply with Company’s policies and procedures, shall conduct him/herself as an ethical business professional, and shall comply with federal, state and local laws.

 

2.                                       At-Will Employment .  Nothing in this Agreement alters the at-will employment relationship between Employee and Company or limits Company’s right to alter or modify Employee’s job title or job duties and responsibilities any time at Company’s discretion.  Employment with Company is “at-will” which means that either Employee or Company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without notice, with or without cause.  The date of Employee’s cessation of employment for any reason is the “ Separation Date .”

 

3.                                       Confidentiality .

 

(a)                                  Employee acknowledges and agrees that: (1) the retail sale of value-priced/off-price family apparel is an extremely competitive industry; (2) Company has an ongoing strategy for expansion of its business in the United States; (3) Company’s major competitors operate throughout the United States and some internationally; and (4) because of Employee’s position as Executive Vice President, Human Resources, he/she will have access to, knowledge of, and be entrusted with, highly sensitive and competitive Confidential Information and Trade Secrets (as defined in subsection (b) below) of Company, including without limitation information regarding sales margins, purchasing and pricing strategies, marketing strategies, vendors and suppliers, plans for expansion and placement of stores, and also specific information about Company’s districts and stores, such as staffing, budgets, profits and the financial success of individual districts and stores, which Company has developed and will continue to develop and the disclosure or use of which would cause Company great and irreparable harm.

 


 

(b)                                  As used herein, “ Confidential Information ” means and includes any and all Company data and information in any form whatsoever (tangible or intangible) which: (1) relates to the business of Company, irrespective of whether the data or information constitutes a “trade secret” (as defined below); (2) is disclosed to Employee or which Employee obtains or becomes aware of as a consequence of Employee’s relationship with Company; (3) has value to Company; and (4) is not generally known to Company’s competitors.  “Confidential Information” includes (but is not limited to) technical or sales data, formulas, patterns, compilations, programs, devices, methods, techniques, drawings, processes, financial data and statements, financial plans and strategies, product plans, sales or advertising information and plans, marketing information and plans, pricing information, the identity or lists of employees, vendors and suppliers of Company, and confidential or proprietary information of such employees, vendors and suppliers.  “ Trade Secret ” means any and all information, knowledge or data in any form whatsoever, tangible or intangible, that is considered a trade secret under applicable law. Employee acknowledges and agrees that all Confidential Information and Trade Secrets are and remain the sole and exclusive property of Company.

 

(c)                                   Employee agrees that he/she shall hold all Confidential Information and Trade Secrets in strictest confidence, and that he/she shall protect such Confidential Information and Trade Secrets from disclosure by or to others.  Employee further agrees that he/she shall not at any time (except as authorized by Company in connection with Employee’s duties and responsibilities as an employee): (1) disclose, publish, transfer, or communicate Confidential Information or Trade Secrets to any person or entity, other than authorized Company personnel; (2) use or reproduce Confidential Information or Trade Secrets for personal benefit or for any purpose or reason other than furthering the legitimate business interest of Company within the scope of Employee’s duties with Company; or (3) remove or transfer any Confidential Information or Trade Secrets from Company’s premises or systems (by any method or means) except for use in Company’s business and consistent with Employee’s duties with the Company.  The foregoing covenants and obligations are in addition to, and do not limit, any common law or statutory rights and/or protections afforded to Company.

 

(d)                                  Employee acknowledges that Company has provided or will provide Employee with Company property, including without limitation, employee handbooks, policy manuals, price lists, financial reports, and vendor and supplier information, among other items.  Upon the Separation Date, or upon the request of Company, Employee shall immediately deliver to Company all property belonging to Company, including without limitation, all Confidential Information, Trade Secrets, and any property related to Company, whether in electronic or other format, as well as any copies thereof, then in Employee’s custody, control, or possession.  Upon the Separation Date, Employee shall provide Company with a declaration certifying that all Confidential Information and any other Company property have been returned to Company, that Employee has not kept any copies of such items or distributed such items to any third party, and that Employee has otherwise complied with the terms of Section 3 of this Agreement.

 

(e)                                   Employee shall not be held criminally or civilly liable under any federal or state trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret (as defined in section 1839 of title 18, United States Code) that (A) is made (i) in confidence to a federal, state, or local government official, either directly or indirectly, or to an attorney; and (ii) solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law; or (B) is made in a complaint or other document filed

 

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in a lawsuit or other proceeding, if such filing is made under seal.  If Employee files a lawsuit for retaliation by the Company for reporting a suspected violation of law, Employee may disclose the trade secret to the attorney of Employee and use the trade secret information in the court proceeding if Employee (A) files any document containing the trade secret under seal; and (B) does not disclose the trade secret, except as permitted by court order.

 

4.                                       Covenant Not to Compete .  Employee acknowledges and agrees that Company has invested a great deal of time and money in developing relationships with its employees, customers, and “Merchandise Vendors” (as defined below).  Employee further acknowledges and agrees that in rendering services to Company, Employee has been, will be and will continue to be exposed to and learn much information about Company’s business, including valuable Confidential Information and Trade Secrets, the Company’s employees, and the Company’s “Merchandise Vendors,” to which Employee would not have access if not for Employee’s employment with Company and which it would be unfair to disclose to others, or to use to Company’s disadvantage.

 

Employee acknowledges and agrees that the restrictions contained in this Agreement are necessary and reasonable to protect Company’s legitimate business interests in its Trade Secrets, valuable Confidential Information and relationships and goodwill with its employees, customers, and “Merchandising Vendors.”  Employee further acknowledges that Employee’s skills, education and training qualify Employee to work and obtain employment which does not violate this Agreement and that the restrictions in this Agreement have been crafted as narrowly as reasonably possible to protect Company’s legitimate business interests in its Trade Secrets, valuable Confidential Information and relationships and goodwill with its employees, customers, and “Merchandising Vendors.”

 

In light of the foregoing, Employee agrees that he/she will not, at any point during his/her employment with Company, work for or engage or participate in any business, enterprise, or endeavor that in any way competes with any aspect of Company’s business or that otherwise conflicts with Company’s interests.  In addition, for a period of one (1) year following the Separation Date, and regardless of the reason for separation, Employee shall not, within any geographic area in which Company does business at any time during Employee’s employment with Company: (a) become employed by or work for a “Competitor” (as defined below) in any position or capacity involving duties and/or responsibilities which are the same as or substantially similar to any of the duties and/or responsibilities Employee had with and/or performed for Company; or (b) perform or provide any services which are the same as or substantially similar to any of the services which Employee performed or provided for the Company, for or on behalf of any Competitor.  For purposes of this Section 4, the term “ Competitor ” shall mean only the following businesses, commonly known as: Cato, TJX (including without limitation TJMAXX and Marshalls), Burlington Stores, Gabe’s/Rugged Wearhouse, and Ross Stores.

 

5.                                       Covenant Not to Solicit .   During Employee’s employment with Company, and for a period of eighteen (18) months following the Separation Date, and regardless of the reason for separation, Employee agrees not to solicit any “Merchandise Vendors” (as defined below) for the purpose of obtaining merchandise and/or inventory for or on behalf of any “Competitor” (as defined in Section 4 of this Agreement).  As used herein, “ Merchandise Vendors ” means and

 

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includes any person or entity who/that has been a vendor or supplier of merchandise and/or inventory to Company during the eighteen (18) months immediately preceding the Separation Date or to whom/which Company is actively soliciting for the provision of merchandise and/or inventory, and with whom/which Employee had “material contact.”  For purposes of this agreement, “ material contact ” means contact between Employee and an existing or prospective Merchandise Vendor: (a) with whom Employee dealt on behalf of Company within two years prior to the date of Employee’s termination; (b) whose dealings with Company were coordinated or supervised by Employee within two years prior to the date of Employee’s termination; (c) about whom Employee obtained Confidential Information in the ordinary course of business as a result of Employee’s association with Company within two years prior to the date of Employee’s termination; or, (d) who provides merchandise and/or inventory to Company, the provision of which results or resulted in compensation, commissions, or earnings for Employee within two years prior to the date of Employee’s termination.

 

Employee specifically acknowledges and agrees that, as Executive Vice President, Human Resources, his/her duties include, without limitation, establishing purchasing and pricing strategies and policies, managing sales margins, involvement in establishing and maintaining vendor relationships, and having contact with and confidential and/or proprietary information regarding Merchandise Vendors.

 

6.                                       Covenant Not to Recruit Personnel .  During Employee’s employment with Company, and for a period of two (2) years following the Separation Date, and regardless of the reason for separation, Employee will not: (a) recruit or solicit to hire or assist others in recruiting or soliciting to hire, any employee or independent contractor of Company; or (b) cause or assist others in causing any employee or independent contractor of Company to terminate his/her relationship with Company.

 

7.                                       Severability .  If any provision of this Agreement is held invalid, illegal, or otherwise unenforceable, in whole or in part, the remaining provisions, and any partially enforceable provisions to the extent enforceable, shall be binding and remain in full force and effect.  Further, each particular prohibition or restriction set forth in any Section of this Agreement shall be deemed a severable unit, and if any court of competent jurisdiction determines that any portion of such prohibition or restriction is against the policy of the law in any respect, but such restraint, considered as a whole, is not so clearly unreasonable and overreaching in its terms as to be unconscionable, the court shall enforce so much of such restraint as is determined to be reasonably necessary to protect the legitimate interests of Company.  Employee and Company expressly agree that, should any court of competent jurisdiction find or determine that any of the covenants contained herein are overly-broad or otherwise unenforceable, the court may “blue-pencil,” modify, and/or reform any such covenant (in whole or in part) so as to cure the over-breadth or to otherwise render the covenant enforceable.

 

8.                                       Survival of Covenants .  All rights and covenants contained in Sections 3, 4, 5, and 6 of this Agreement, and all remedies relating thereto, shall survive the termination of this Agreement for any reason.

 

9.                                       Binding Effect .  The covenants, terms, and provisions set forth in this Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by Company and its successors, assigns, and

 

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successors-in-interest, including, without limitation, any corporation, partnership, or other entity with which Company may be merged or by which it may be acquired.  Employee may not assign Employee’s rights or obligations under this Agreement to any other party.

 

10.                                Governing Law .  All matters affecting this Agreement, including the validity thereof, are to be subject to, and interpreted and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of Georgia applicable to contracts executed in and to be performed in that State.

 

11.                                No Interference with Rights .  Employee understands, agrees and acknowledges that nothing contained in this Agreement will prevent Employee from filing a charge or complaint with, reporting possible violations of any law or regulation, making disclosures to, and/or participating in any investigation or proceeding conducted by, the National Labor Relations Board, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and/or any governmental authority charged with the enforcement of any laws.

 

12.                                Acknowledgment of Reasonableness/Remedies/Enforcement .

 

(a)                                  Employee acknowledges that: (1) Company has valid interests to protect pursuant to Sections 3, 4, 5, and 6 of this Agreement; (2) the breach of the provisions of Sections 3, 4, 5, or 6 of this Agreement would result in irreparable injury and permanent damage to Company; and (3) such restrictions are reasonable and necessary to protect the interests of Company, are critical to the success of Company’s business, and do not cause undue hardship on Employee.

 

(b)                                  Employee agrees that determining damages in the event of a breach of Sections 3, 4, 5, or 6 by Employee would be difficult and that money damages alone would be an inadequate remedy for the injuries and damages which would be suffered by Company from such breach.  Therefore, Employee agrees that Company shall be entitled (in addition to any other remedies it may have under this Agreement, at law, or otherwise) to immediate injunctive and other equitable relief to prevent or curtail any such breach or threatened breach by Employee.  Employee and Company waive any requirement that a bond or any other security be posted.  Nothing in this Agreement shall prohibit Company from seeking or recovering any legal or monetary damages to which it may be entitled if Employee breaches any provision in this Agreement.

 

(c)                                   In the event Employee breaches this Agreement, Employee shall be liable to Company for all costs of enforcement, including attorneys’ fees and court costs, in addition to all other damages and redress available to Company in equity or in law.

 

13.                                Miscellaneous .  This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties and supersedes any and all prior contracts, agreements, or understandings between the parties which may have been entered into by Company and Employee relating to the subject matter hereof (including, without limitation, the Prior Confidentiality Agreement), except for any severance agreements or certain restricted stock award and stock option agreements, which are to remain in full force and effect.  This Agreement may not be amended or modified in any manner except by an instrument in writing signed by both Company and Employee.  The failure of either party to enforce at any time any of the provisions of this Agreement shall in no way be construed to be a waiver of any such provision or the right of such party thereafter to enforce each and every such

 

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provision.  No waiver of any breach of this Agreement shall be held to be a waiver of any other or subsequent breach.  All remedies are cumulative, including the right of either party to seek equitable relief in addition to money damages.

 

EMPLOYEE ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT HE/SHE HAS CAREFULLY READ THIS AGREEMENT AND KNOWS AND UNDERSTANDS ITS CONTENTS, THAT HE/SHE ENTERS INTO THIS AGREEMENT KNOWINGLY AND VOLUNTARILY, AND THAT HE/SHE INDICATES HIS/HER CONSENT BY SIGNING THIS FINAL PAGE.

 

(SIGNATURES TO FOLLOW ON NEXT PAGE)

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement under seal as of the day and year set forth below.

 

Citi Trends, Inc.

/s/ Ivy D. Council

 

Employee Signature

 

 

By:

/s/ Bruce D. Smith

 

Date:

Bruce D. Smith

 

3/26/2018

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

 

Date:

3/26/2018

 

Employee Residence Address:

 

 

 

 

 

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Exhibit 10.6

 

SEVERANCE AGREEMENT

 

This SEVERANCE AGREEMENT (“ Agreement ”) is entered into between Citi Trends, Inc., a Delaware corporation, including its subsidiaries, affiliates, divisions, successors, and related entities (the “ Company ”), and Ivy D. Council, an individual (the “ Executive ”), effective as of the date signed by Executive below.

 

WHEREAS, this Agreement is intended to and shall supersede and replace that certain Severance Agreement between the Company and Employee dated as of May 1, 2013 (the “ Prior Severance Agreement ”).

 

WHEREAS, the Company and the Executive are also parties to an Employment Non-Compete, Non-Solicit and Confidentiality Agreement (the “ Confidentiality Agreement ”) and certain restricted stock award and stock option agreements (collectively, the “ Equity Agreements ”), which are to remain in full force and effect;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual agreements set forth herein, the parties agree as follows:

 

1.                                       Termination Payments and Benefits.   Regardless of the circumstances of the Executive’s termination, Executive shall be entitled to payment when due of any earned and unpaid base salary, expense reimbursements and vacation days accrued prior to the termination of Executive’s employment, and other unpaid vested amounts or benefits under Company retirement and health benefit plans, and, as applicable, under Equity Agreements in accordance with their terms, and to no other compensation or benefits.

 

(a)                                  If (i) the Company terminates the Executive’s employment without Cause, or (ii) the Executive terminates employment with the Company within twelve (12) months following the occurrence of a Change in Control, provided that within such period, (a) either Executive’s job duties have been materially and permanently diminished or the Executive’s compensation has been materially decreased and (b) Executive provides written notice to the Company within ninety (90) days of the occurrence of an aforementioned event and the Company fails to cure the event within thirty (30) days following the Company’s receipt of the Executive’s written notice, then, in the case of either (i) or (ii) above, the Company will provide the Executive with separation payments of twelve (12) months base salary at Executive’s base salary rate at the time of Executive’s termination or if greater, the Executive’s base rate in effect on the Change of Control Date; to be paid in twenty-six (26) regular bi-weekly pay periods beginning on the first pay period occurring after the sixtieth (60th) day following the Executive’s termination, provided the Executive executes and does not subsequently revoke the Separation and General Release Agreement referenced below within such sixty (60) day period.

 

(b)                                  For a period of twelve (12) months from the Executive’s separation from service, the Company will pay to the Executive an amount, minus all applicable taxes and withholdings, equal to the full monthly cost (including any portion of the cost previously paid by the employee) to provide the same level of group health benefits maintained by Executive as of Executive’s separation from service, provided the Executive executes and does not subsequently revoke the Separation and General Release Agreement referenced below within such sixty (60) day period.

 


 

(c)                                   For purposes of this Agreement, “ Change in Control ” shall mean the occurrence of any one of the following events:

 

(i)                                      the acquisition by any individual, entity or group (within the meaning of Section 13(d)(3) or 14(d)(2) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “ 1934 Act ”)) (a “ Person ”) of beneficial ownership (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 promulgated under the 1934 Act) of 50% or more of the combined voting power of the then outstanding voting securities of the Company entitled to vote generally in the election of directors (the “ Outstanding Company Voting Securities ”); provided, however, that for purposes of this subsection (1), the following acquisitions shall not constitute a Change of Control: (i) any acquisition by a Person who is on the date of this Agreement the beneficial owner of 50% or more of the Outstanding Company Voting Securities, (ii) any acquisition directly from the Company, (iii) any acquisition by the Company, (iv) any acquisition by any employee benefit plan (or related trust) sponsored or maintained by the Company or any corporation controlled by the Company, or (v) any acquisition by any corporation pursuant to a transaction which complies with clauses (i), (ii) and (iii) of subsection (3) of this definition; or

 

(ii)                                   individuals who, as of the date of this Agreement, constitute the Board of Directors of the Company (the “ Incumbent Board ”) cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority of the Board of Directors of the Company; provided, however, that any individual becoming a director subsequent to the Effective Date whose election, or nomination for election by the Company’s shareholders, was approved by a vote of at least a majority of the directors then comprising the Incumbent Board shall be considered as though such individual were a member of the Incumbent Board, but excluding, for this purpose, any such individual whose initial assumption of office occurs as a result of an actual or threatened election contest with respect to the election or removal of directors or other actual or threatened solicitation of proxies or consents by or on behalf of a Person other than the Board of Directors of the Company; or

 

(iii)                                consummation of a reorganization, merger, consolidation or share exchange or sale or other disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company (a “ Business Combination ”), in each case, unless, following such Business Combination, (i) all or substantially all of the individuals and entities who were the beneficial owners of the Outstanding Company Voting Securities immediately prior to such Business Combination beneficially own, directly or indirectly, more than 50% of the combined voting power of the then outstanding voting securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors of the corporation resulting from such Business Combination (including, without limitation, a corporation which as a result of such transaction owns the Company or all or substantially all of the Company’s assets either directly or through one or more subsidiaries) in substantially the same proportions as their ownership, immediately prior to such Business Combination of the Outstanding Company Voting Securities, and (ii) no Person (excluding any corporation resulting from such Business Combination or any employee benefit plan (or related trust) of the Company or such corporation resulting from such Business Combination) beneficially owns, directly or indirectly, 20% or more of the combined voting power of the then outstanding voting securities of such corporation except to the extent that such ownership existed prior to the Business Combination, and (iii) at least a majority of the members of the board of directors of the corporation resulting from such Business Combination were members of the Incumbent Board at the time of the execution of the initial agreement, or of the action of the Board, providing for such Business Combination; or

 

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(iv)                               approval by the shareholders of the Company of a complete liquidation or dissolution of the Company.

 

(d)                                  The separation payments and benefits described in Sections 1(a) and 1(b), above, are conditioned upon Executive executing a Separation and General Release Agreement at the time of termination, which releases and waives any and all claims against the Company and its affiliated persons and companies, and is acceptable to the Company.

 

(e)                                   In all other circumstances of separation, including if the Executive resigns, retires or is terminated for Cause, the Executive shall not be entitled to receive any separation payments or benefits.  For purposes of this Agreement, “ Cause ” shall mean the Executive’s:

 

(i)                                      commission of an act of fraud or dishonesty, the purpose or effect of which, in the CEO and/or Board’s sole determination, adversely affects the Company;

 

(ii)                                   conviction of a felony or a crime involving embezzlement, conversion of property or moral turpitude (whether by plea of nolo contendere or otherwise);

 

(iii)                                engaging in willful or reckless misconduct or gross negligence in connection with any property or activity of the Company, the purpose or effect of which, in the CEO and/or Board’s sole determination, adversely affects the Company;

 

(iv)                               material breach of any of the Executive’s obligations as an employee or  stockholder as set forth in the Company’s Information Security Policies and Code of Business Conduct, the Confidentiality Agreement or any other agreement in effect between the Company and the Executive; provided that, in the event such breach is susceptible to cure, the Executive has been given written notice by the CEO and/or Board of such breach and 30 days from such notice fails to cure the breach; or

 

(v)                                  failure or refusal to perform any material duty or responsibility under this Agreement or a determination that the Executive has breached his fiduciary obligations to the Company; provided that, in the event such failure, refusal or breach is susceptible to cure, the Executive has been given written notice by the CEO and/or Board of such failure, refusal or breach and 30 days from such notice fails to cure such failure, refusal or breach.

 

2.                                       Notice.   The Executive will send all communications to the Company in writing, to: Executive Vice President of Human Resources, Citi Trends, Inc., 104 Coleman Blvd., Savannah, Georgia 31408, Fax: (912) 443-3663.  All communications from the Company to the Executive relating to this Agreement shall be sent to the Executive in writing at his office and home address as reflected in the Company’s records.

 

3.                                       Amendment.   No provisions of this Agreement may be modified, waived, or discharged except by a written document signed by a duly authorized Company officer and the Executive.  A waiver of any conditions or provisions of this Agreement in a given instance shall not be deemed a waiver of such conditions or provisions at any other time in the future.

 

4.                                       Choice of Law and Venue.   The validity, interpretation, construction, and performance of this Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Georgia (excluding any that mandate

 

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the use of another jurisdiction’s laws).  Any action to enforce or for breach of this Agreement shall be brought exclusively in the state or federal courts of the County of Chatham, City of Savannah.

 

5.                                       Successors.   This Agreement shall be binding upon, and shall inure to the benefit of, the Executive and Executive’s estate, but the Executive may not assign or pledge this Agreement or any rights arising under it, except to the extent permitted under the terms of the benefit plans in which Executive participates.  Without the Executive’s consent, the Company may assign this Agreement to any affiliate or to a successor to substantially all the business and assets of the Company.

 

6.                                       Counterparts.   This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which together shall constitute the same instrument.

 

7.                                       Entire Agreement.   This Agreement and the Confidentiality Agreement between the parties constitute the entire agreement between the parties and supersede any and all prior contracts, agreements, or understandings between the parties which may have been entered into by Company and the Executive relating to the subject matter hereof (including, without limitation, the Prior Severance Agreement), except for the Equity Agreements, which are to remain in full force and effect.  This Agreement may not be amended or modified in any manner except by an instrument in writing signed by both the Company and the Executive.  The failure of either party to enforce at any time any of the provisions of this Agreement shall in no way be construed to be a waiver of any such provision or the right of such party thereafter to enforce each and every such provision.  No waiver of any breach of this Agreement shall be held to be a waiver of any other or subsequent breach.  All remedies are cumulative, including the right of either party to seek equitable relief in addition to money damages.

 

8.                                       Employment At-Will Relationship.  Executive and the Company agree that nothing in this Agreement alters the at-will nature of Executive’s employment relationship with the Company.

 

9.                                       Internal Revenue Code Section 409A.   Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, to the extent that any amount or benefit that would constitute non-exempt “deferred compensation” for purposes of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code (“ Section 409A ”) would otherwise be payable or distributable hereunder by reason of a Participant’s termination of employment, such amount or benefit will not be payable or distributable to the Participant by reason of such circumstance unless the circumstances giving rise to such termination of employment meet any description or definition of “separation from service” in Section 409A of the Code and applicable regulations (without giving effect to any elective provisions that may be available under such definition).  For purposes of Section 409A, each installment payable under Section 1(a) and 1(b) of this Agreement shall be deemed to be a separate payment.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have set their hands as of the day and year set forth below.

 

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CITI TRENDS, INC.

 

 

 

 

By:

/s/ Bruce D. Smith

 

Name:

Bruce D. Smith

 

Title:

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

Dated:

3/26/2018

 

 

 

 

/s/ Ivy D. Council

 

Employee Name

 

 

 

Dated:

3/26/2018

 

5


Exhibit 10.7

 

EMPLOYMENT NON-COMPETE, NON-SOLICIT AND CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT

 

This EMPLOYMENT NON-COMPETE, NON-SOLICIT AND CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT (“ Agreement ”) is entered into between Citi Trends, Inc., including its subsidiaries, affiliates, divisions, successors, and related entities (“ Company ”), and James A. Dunn (“ Employee ”), effective as of the date signed by Employee below.

 

This Agreement is intended to and shall supersede and replace that certain Employment Non-Compete, Non-Solicit and Confidentiality Agreement between the Company and Employee dated as of May 1, 2013 (the “ Prior Confidentiality Agreement ”).

 

For and in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements contained herein, including, but not limited to, Company agreeing to employ and/or continuing to employ Employee, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties agree:

 

1.                                       Employment; Scope of Services .  Company shall employ and/or continue to employ Employee, and Employee shall be employed and/or continue to be employed by Company, as Senior Vice President, Store Operations.  Employee shall use his/her best efforts and shall devote his/her full time, attention, knowledge and skills to the faithful performance of his/her duties and responsibilities as a Company employee.  Employee shall have such authority and such other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Board of Directors.  Employee shall comply with Company’s policies and procedures, shall conduct him/herself as an ethical business professional, and shall comply with federal, state and local laws.

 

2.                                       At-Will Employment .  Nothing in this Agreement alters the at-will employment relationship between Employee and Company or limits Company’s right to alter or modify Employee’s job title or job duties and responsibilities any time at Company’s discretion.  Employment with Company is “at-will” which means that either Employee or Company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without notice, with or without cause.  The date of Employee’s cessation of employment for any reason is the “ Separation Date .”

 

3.                                       Confidentiality .

 

(a)                                  Employee acknowledges and agrees that: (1) the retail sale of value-priced/off-price family apparel is an extremely competitive industry; (2) Company has an ongoing strategy for expansion of its business in the United States; (3) Company’s major competitors operate throughout the United States and some internationally; and (4) because of Employee’s position as Senior Vice President, Store Operations, he/she will have access to, knowledge of, and be entrusted with, highly sensitive and competitive Confidential Information and Trade Secrets (as defined in subsection (b) below) of Company, including without limitation information regarding sales margins, purchasing and pricing strategies, marketing strategies, vendors and suppliers, plans for expansion and placement of stores, and also specific information about Company’s districts and stores, such as staffing, budgets, profits and the financial success of individual districts and stores, which Company has developed and will continue to develop and the disclosure or use of which would cause Company great and irreparable harm.

 


 

(b)                                  As used herein, “ Confidential Information ” means and includes any and all Company data and information in any form whatsoever (tangible or intangible) which: (1) relates to the business of Company, irrespective of whether the data or information constitutes a “trade secret” (as defined below); (2) is disclosed to Employee or which Employee obtains or becomes aware of as a consequence of Employee’s relationship with Company; (3) has value to Company; and (4) is not generally known to Company’s competitors.  “Confidential Information” includes (but is not limited to) technical or sales data, formulas, patterns, compilations, programs, devices, methods, techniques, drawings, processes, financial data and statements, financial plans and strategies, product plans, sales or advertising information and plans, marketing information and plans, pricing information, the identity or lists of employees, vendors and suppliers of Company, and confidential or proprietary information of such employees, vendors and suppliers.  “ Trade Secret ” means any and all information, knowledge or data in any form whatsoever, tangible or intangible, that is considered a trade secret under applicable law. Employee acknowledges and agrees that all Confidential Information and Trade Secrets are and remain the sole and exclusive property of Company.

 

(c)                                   Employee agrees that he/she shall hold all Confidential Information and Trade Secrets in strictest confidence, and that he/she shall protect such Confidential Information and Trade Secrets from disclosure by or to others.  Employee further agrees that he/she shall not at any time (except as authorized by Company in connection with Employee’s duties and responsibilities as an employee): (1) disclose, publish, transfer, or communicate Confidential Information or Trade Secrets to any person or entity, other than authorized Company personnel; (2) use or reproduce Confidential Information or Trade Secrets for personal benefit or for any purpose or reason other than furthering the legitimate business interest of Company within the scope of Employee’s duties with Company; or (3) remove or transfer any Confidential Information or Trade Secrets from Company’s premises or systems (by any method or means) except for use in Company’s business and consistent with Employee’s duties with the Company.  The foregoing covenants and obligations are in addition to, and do not limit, any common law or statutory rights and/or protections afforded to Company.

 

(d)                                  Employee acknowledges that Company has provided or will provide Employee with Company property, including without limitation, employee handbooks, policy manuals, price lists, financial reports, and vendor and supplier information, among other items.  Upon the Separation Date, or upon the request of Company, Employee shall immediately deliver to Company all property belonging to Company, including without limitation, all Confidential Information, Trade Secrets, and any property related to Company, whether in electronic or other format, as well as any copies thereof, then in Employee’s custody, control, or possession.  Upon the Separation Date, Employee shall provide Company with a declaration certifying that all Confidential Information and any other Company property have been returned to Company, that Employee has not kept any copies of such items or distributed such items to any third party, and that Employee has otherwise complied with the terms of Section 3 of this Agreement.

 

(e)                                   Employee shall not be held criminally or civilly liable under any federal or state trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret (as defined in section 1839 of title 18, United States Code) that (A) is made (i) in confidence to a federal, state, or local government official, either directly or indirectly, or to an attorney; and (ii) solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law; or (B) is made in a complaint or other document filed

 

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in a lawsuit or other proceeding, if such filing is made under seal.  If Employee files a lawsuit for retaliation by the Company for reporting a suspected violation of law, Employee may disclose the trade secret to the attorney of Employee and use the trade secret information in the court proceeding if Employee (A) files any document containing the trade secret under seal; and (B) does not disclose the trade secret, except as permitted by court order.

 

4.                                       Covenant Not to Compete .  Employee acknowledges and agrees that Company has invested a great deal of time and money in developing relationships with its employees, customers, and “Merchandise Vendors” (as defined below).  Employee further acknowledges and agrees that in rendering services to Company, Employee has been, will be and will continue to be exposed to and learn much information about Company’s business, including valuable Confidential Information and Trade Secrets, the Company’s employees, and the Company’s “Merchandise Vendors,” to which Employee would not have access if not for Employee’s employment with Company and which it would be unfair to disclose to others, or to use to Company’s disadvantage.

 

Employee acknowledges and agrees that the restrictions contained in this Agreement are necessary and reasonable to protect Company’s legitimate business interests in its Trade Secrets, valuable Confidential Information and relationships and goodwill with its employees, customers, and “Merchandising Vendors.”  Employee further acknowledges that Employee’s skills, education and training qualify Employee to work and obtain employment which does not violate this Agreement and that the restrictions in this Agreement have been crafted as narrowly as reasonably possible to protect Company’s legitimate business interests in its Trade Secrets, valuable Confidential Information and relationships and goodwill with its employees, customers, and “Merchandising Vendors.”

 

In light of the foregoing, Employee agrees that he/she will not, at any point during his/her employment with Company, work for or engage or participate in any business, enterprise, or endeavor that in any way competes with any aspect of Company’s business or that otherwise conflicts with Company’s interests.  In addition, for a period of one (1) year following the Separation Date, and regardless of the reason for separation, Employee shall not, within any geographic area in which Company does business at any time during Employee’s employment with Company: (a) become employed by or work for a “Competitor” (as defined below) in any position or capacity involving duties and/or responsibilities which are the same as or substantially similar to any of the duties and/or responsibilities Employee had with and/or performed for Company; or (b) perform or provide any services which are the same as or substantially similar to any of the services which Employee performed or provided for the Company, for or on behalf of any Competitor.  For purposes of this Section 4, the term “ Competitor ” shall mean only the following businesses, commonly known as: Cato, TJX (including without limitation TJMAXX and Marshalls), Burlington Stores, Gabe’s/Rugged Wearhouse, and Ross Stores.

 

5.                                       Covenant Not to Solicit .   During Employee’s employment with Company, and for a period of eighteen (18) months following the Separation Date, and regardless of the reason for separation, Employee agrees not to solicit any “Merchandise Vendors” (as defined below) for the purpose of obtaining merchandise and/or inventory for or on behalf of any “Competitor” (as defined in Section 4 of this Agreement).  As used herein, “ Merchandise Vendors ” means and

 

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includes any person or entity who/that has been a vendor or supplier of merchandise and/or inventory to Company during the eighteen (18) months immediately preceding the Separation Date or to whom/which Company is actively soliciting for the provision of merchandise and/or inventory, and with whom/which Employee had “material contact.”  For purposes of this agreement, “ material contact ” means contact between Employee and an existing or prospective Merchandise Vendor: (a) with whom Employee dealt on behalf of Company within two years prior to the date of Employee’s termination; (b) whose dealings with Company were coordinated or supervised by Employee within two years prior to the date of Employee’s termination; (c) about whom Employee obtained Confidential Information in the ordinary course of business as a result of Employee’s association with Company within two years prior to the date of Employee’s termination; or, (d) who provides merchandise and/or inventory to Company, the provision of which results or resulted in compensation, commissions, or earnings for Employee within two years prior to the date of Employee’s termination.

 

Employee specifically acknowledges and agrees that, as Senior Vice President, Store Operations, his/her duties include, without limitation, establishing purchasing and pricing strategies and policies, managing sales margins, involvement in establishing and maintaining vendor relationships, and having contact with and confidential and/or proprietary information regarding Merchandise Vendors.

 

6.                                       Covenant Not to Recruit Personnel .  During Employee’s employment with Company, and for a period of two (2) years following the Separation Date, and regardless of the reason for separation, Employee will not: (a) recruit or solicit to hire or assist others in recruiting or soliciting to hire, any employee or independent contractor of Company; or (b) cause or assist others in causing any employee or independent contractor of Company to terminate his/her relationship with Company.

 

7.                                       Severability .  If any provision of this Agreement is held invalid, illegal, or otherwise unenforceable, in whole or in part, the remaining provisions, and any partially enforceable provisions to the extent enforceable, shall be binding and remain in full force and effect.  Further, each particular prohibition or restriction set forth in any Section of this Agreement shall be deemed a severable unit, and if any court of competent jurisdiction determines that any portion of such prohibition or restriction is against the policy of the law in any respect, but such restraint, considered as a whole, is not so clearly unreasonable and overreaching in its terms as to be unconscionable, the court shall enforce so much of such restraint as is determined to be reasonably necessary to protect the legitimate interests of Company.  Employee and Company expressly agree that, should any court of competent jurisdiction find or determine that any of the covenants contained herein are overly-broad or otherwise unenforceable, the court may “blue-pencil,” modify, and/or reform any such covenant (in whole or in part) so as to cure the over-breadth or to otherwise render the covenant enforceable.

 

8.                                       Survival of Covenants .  All rights and covenants contained in Sections 3, 4, 5, and 6 of this Agreement, and all remedies relating thereto, shall survive the termination of this Agreement for any reason.

 

9.                                       Binding Effect .  The covenants, terms, and provisions set forth in this Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by Company and its successors, assigns, and

 

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successors-in-interest, including, without limitation, any corporation, partnership, or other entity with which Company may be merged or by which it may be acquired.  Employee may not assign Employee’s rights or obligations under this Agreement to any other party.

 

10.                                Governing Law .  All matters affecting this Agreement, including the validity thereof, are to be subject to, and interpreted and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of Georgia applicable to contracts executed in and to be performed in that State.

 

11.                                No Interference with Rights .  Employee understands, agrees and acknowledges that nothing contained in this Agreement will prevent Employee from filing a charge or complaint with, reporting possible violations of any law or regulation, making disclosures to, and/or participating in any investigation or proceeding conducted by, the National Labor Relations Board, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and/or any governmental authority charged with the enforcement of any laws.

 

12.                                Acknowledgment of Reasonableness/Remedies/Enforcement .

 

(a)                                  Employee acknowledges that: (1) Company has valid interests to protect pursuant to Sections 3, 4, 5, and 6 of this Agreement; (2) the breach of the provisions of Sections 3, 4, 5, or 6 of this Agreement would result in irreparable injury and permanent damage to Company; and (3) such restrictions are reasonable and necessary to protect the interests of Company, are critical to the success of Company’s business, and do not cause undue hardship on Employee.

 

(b)                                  Employee agrees that determining damages in the event of a breach of Sections 3, 4, 5, or 6 by Employee would be difficult and that money damages alone would be an inadequate remedy for the injuries and damages which would be suffered by Company from such breach.  Therefore, Employee agrees that Company shall be entitled (in addition to any other remedies it may have under this Agreement, at law, or otherwise) to immediate injunctive and other equitable relief to prevent or curtail any such breach or threatened breach by Employee.  Employee and Company waive any requirement that a bond or any other security be posted.  Nothing in this Agreement shall prohibit Company from seeking or recovering any legal or monetary damages to which it may be entitled if Employee breaches any provision in this Agreement.

 

(c)                                   In the event Employee breaches this Agreement, Employee shall be liable to Company for all costs of enforcement, including attorneys’ fees and court costs, in addition to all other damages and redress available to Company in equity or in law.

 

13.                                Miscellaneous .  This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties and supersedes any and all prior contracts, agreements, or understandings between the parties which may have been entered into by Company and Employee relating to the subject matter hereof (including, without limitation, the Prior Confidentiality Agreement), except for any severance agreements or certain restricted stock award and stock option agreements, which are to remain in full force and effect.  This Agreement may not be amended or modified in any manner except by an instrument in writing signed by both Company and Employee.  The failure of either party to enforce at any time any of the provisions of this Agreement shall in no way be construed to be a waiver of any such provision or the right of such party thereafter to enforce each and every such

 

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provision.  No waiver of any breach of this Agreement shall be held to be a waiver of any other or subsequent breach.  All remedies are cumulative, including the right of either party to seek equitable relief in addition to money damages.

 

EMPLOYEE ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT HE/SHE HAS CAREFULLY READ THIS AGREEMENT AND KNOWS AND UNDERSTANDS ITS CONTENTS, THAT HE/SHE ENTERS INTO THIS AGREEMENT KNOWINGLY AND VOLUNTARILY, AND THAT HE/SHE INDICATES HIS/HER CONSENT BY SIGNING THIS FINAL PAGE.

 

(SIGNATURES TO FOLLOW ON NEXT PAGE)

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement under seal as of the day and year set forth below.

 

Citi Trends, Inc.

/s/ James A. Dunn

 

Employee Signature

 

 

By:

/s/ Bruce D. Smith

 

Date:

Bruce D. Smith

3/27/2018

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

Date:

3/27/2018

 

Employee Residence Address:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7


Exhibit 10.8

 

SEVERANCE AGREEMENT

 

This SEVERANCE AGREEMENT (“ Agreement ”) is entered into between Citi Trends, Inc., a Delaware corporation, including its subsidiaries, affiliates, divisions, successors, and related entities (the “ Company ”), and James A. Dunn, an individual (the “ Executive ”), effective as of the date signed by Executive below.

 

WHEREAS, this Agreement is intended to and shall supersede and replace that certain Severance Agreement between the Company and Employee dated as of May 1, 2013 (the “ Prior Severance Agreement ”).

 

WHEREAS, the Company and the Executive are also parties to an Employment Non-Compete, Non-Solicit and Confidentiality Agreement (the “ Confidentiality Agreement ”) and certain restricted stock award and stock option agreements (collectively, the “ Equity Agreements ”), which are to remain in full force and effect;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual agreements set forth herein, the parties agree as follows:

 

1.                                       Termination Payments and Benefits.   Regardless of the circumstances of the Executive’s termination, Executive shall be entitled to payment when due of any earned and unpaid base salary, expense reimbursements and vacation days accrued prior to the termination of Executive’s employment, and other unpaid vested amounts or benefits under Company retirement and health benefit plans, and, as applicable, under Equity Agreements in accordance with their terms, and to no other compensation or benefits.

 

(a)                                  If (i) the Company terminates the Executive’s employment without Cause, or (ii) the Executive terminates employment with the Company within twelve (12) months following the occurrence of a Change in Control, provided that within such period, (a) either Executive’s job duties have been materially and permanently diminished or the Executive’s compensation has been materially decreased and (b) Executive provides written notice to the Company within ninety (90) days of the occurrence of an aforementioned event and the Company fails to cure the event within thirty (30) days following the Company’s receipt of the Executive’s written notice, then, in the case of either (i) or (ii) above, the Company will provide the Executive with separation payments of twelve (12) months base salary at Executive’s base salary rate at the time of Executive’s termination or if greater, the Executive’s base rate in effect on the Change of Control Date; to be paid in twenty-six (26) regular bi-weekly pay periods beginning on the first pay period occurring after the sixtieth (60th) day following the Executive’s termination, provided the Executive executes and does not subsequently revoke the Separation and General Release Agreement referenced below within such sixty (60) day period.

 

(b)                                  For a period of twelve (12) months from the Executive’s separation from service, the Company will pay to the Executive an amount, minus all applicable taxes and withholdings, equal to the full monthly cost (including any portion of the cost previously paid by the employee) to provide the same level of group health benefits maintained by Executive as of Executive’s separation from service, provided the Executive executes and does not subsequently revoke the Separation and General Release Agreement referenced below within such sixty (60) day period.

 


 

(c)                                   For purposes of this Agreement, “ Change in Control ” shall mean the occurrence of any one of the following events:

 

(i)                                      the acquisition by any individual, entity or group (within the meaning of Section 13(d)(3) or 14(d)(2) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “ 1934 Act ”)) (a “ Person ”) of beneficial ownership (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 promulgated under the 1934 Act) of 50% or more of the combined voting power of the then outstanding voting securities of the Company entitled to vote generally in the election of directors (the “ Outstanding Company Voting Securities ”); provided, however, that for purposes of this subsection (1), the following acquisitions shall not constitute a Change of Control: (i) any acquisition by a Person who is on the date of this Agreement the beneficial owner of 50% or more of the Outstanding Company Voting Securities, (ii) any acquisition directly from the Company, (iii) any acquisition by the Company, (iv) any acquisition by any employee benefit plan (or related trust) sponsored or maintained by the Company or any corporation controlled by the Company, or (v) any acquisition by any corporation pursuant to a transaction which complies with clauses (i), (ii) and (iii) of subsection (3) of this definition; or

 

(ii)                                   individuals who, as of the date of this Agreement, constitute the Board of Directors of the Company (the “ Incumbent Board ”) cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority of the Board of Directors of the Company; provided, however, that any individual becoming a director subsequent to the Effective Date whose election, or nomination for election by the Company’s shareholders, was approved by a vote of at least a majority of the directors then comprising the Incumbent Board shall be considered as though such individual were a member of the Incumbent Board, but excluding, for this purpose, any such individual whose initial assumption of office occurs as a result of an actual or threatened election contest with respect to the election or removal of directors or other actual or threatened solicitation of proxies or consents by or on behalf of a Person other than the Board of Directors of the Company; or

 

(iii)                                consummation of a reorganization, merger, consolidation or share exchange or sale or other disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company (a “ Business Combination ”), in each case, unless, following such Business Combination, (i) all or substantially all of the individuals and entities who were the beneficial owners of the Outstanding Company Voting Securities immediately prior to such Business Combination beneficially own, directly or indirectly, more than 50% of the combined voting power of the then outstanding voting securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors of the corporation resulting from such Business Combination (including, without limitation, a corporation which as a result of such transaction owns the Company or all or substantially all of the Company’s assets either directly or through one or more subsidiaries) in substantially the same proportions as their ownership, immediately prior to such Business Combination of the Outstanding Company Voting Securities, and (ii) no Person (excluding any corporation resulting from such Business Combination or any employee benefit plan (or related trust) of the Company or such corporation resulting from such Business Combination) beneficially owns, directly or indirectly, 20% or more of the combined voting power of the then outstanding voting securities of such corporation except to the extent that such ownership existed prior to the Business Combination, and (iii) at least a majority of the members of the board of directors of the corporation resulting from such Business Combination were members of the Incumbent Board at the time of the execution of the initial agreement, or of the action of the Board, providing for such Business Combination; or

 

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(iv)                               approval by the shareholders of the Company of a complete liquidation or dissolution of the Company.

 

(d)                                  The separation payments and benefits described in Sections 1(a) and 1(b), above, are conditioned upon Executive executing a Separation and General Release Agreement at the time of termination, which releases and waives any and all claims against the Company and its affiliated persons and companies, and is acceptable to the Company.

 

(e)                                   In all other circumstances of separation, including if the Executive resigns, retires or is terminated for Cause, the Executive shall not be entitled to receive any separation payments or benefits.  For purposes of this Agreement, “ Cause ” shall mean the Executive’s:

 

(i)                                      commission of an act of fraud or dishonesty, the purpose or effect of which, in the CEO and/or Board’s sole determination, adversely affects the Company;

 

(ii)                                   conviction of a felony or a crime involving embezzlement, conversion of property or moral turpitude (whether by plea of nolo contendere or otherwise);

 

(iii)                                engaging in willful or reckless misconduct or gross negligence in connection with any property or activity of the Company, the purpose or effect of which, in the CEO and/or Board’s sole determination, adversely affects the Company;

 

(iv)                               material breach of any of the Executive’s obligations as an employee or  stockholder as set forth in the Company’s Information Security Policies and Code of Business Conduct, the Confidentiality Agreement or any other agreement in effect between the Company and the Executive; provided that, in the event such breach is susceptible to cure, the Executive has been given written notice by the CEO and/or Board of such breach and 30 days from such notice fails to cure the breach; or

 

(v)                                  failure or refusal to perform any material duty or responsibility under this Agreement or a determination that the Executive has breached his fiduciary obligations to the Company; provided that, in the event such failure, refusal or breach is susceptible to cure, the Executive has been given written notice by the CEO and/or Board of such failure, refusal or breach and 30 days from such notice fails to cure such failure, refusal or breach.

 

2.                                       Notice.   The Executive will send all communications to the Company in writing, to: Executive Vice President of Human Resources, Citi Trends, Inc., 104 Coleman Blvd., Savannah, Georgia 31408, Fax: (912) 443-3663.  All communications from the Company to the Executive relating to this Agreement shall be sent to the Executive in writing at his office and home address as reflected in the Company’s records.

 

3.                                       Amendment.   No provisions of this Agreement may be modified, waived, or discharged except by a written document signed by a duly authorized Company officer and the Executive.  A waiver of any conditions or provisions of this Agreement in a given instance shall not be deemed a waiver of such conditions or provisions at any other time in the future.

 

4.                                       Choice of Law and Venue.   The validity, interpretation, construction, and performance of this Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Georgia (excluding any that mandate

 

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the use of another jurisdiction’s laws).  Any action to enforce or for breach of this Agreement shall be brought exclusively in the state or federal courts of the County of Chatham, City of Savannah.

 

5.                                       Successors.   This Agreement shall be binding upon, and shall inure to the benefit of, the Executive and Executive’s estate, but the Executive may not assign or pledge this Agreement or any rights arising under it, except to the extent permitted under the terms of the benefit plans in which Executive participates.  Without the Executive’s consent, the Company may assign this Agreement to any affiliate or to a successor to substantially all the business and assets of the Company.

 

6.                                       Counterparts.   This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which together shall constitute the same instrument.

 

7.                                       Entire Agreement.   This Agreement and the Confidentiality Agreement between the parties constitute the entire agreement between the parties and supersede any and all prior contracts, agreements, or understandings between the parties which may have been entered into by Company and the Executive relating to the subject matter hereof (including, without limitation, the Prior Severance Agreement), except for the Equity Agreements, which are to remain in full force and effect.  This Agreement may not be amended or modified in any manner except by an instrument in writing signed by both the Company and the Executive.  The failure of either party to enforce at any time any of the provisions of this Agreement shall in no way be construed to be a waiver of any such provision or the right of such party thereafter to enforce each and every such provision.  No waiver of any breach of this Agreement shall be held to be a waiver of any other or subsequent breach.  All remedies are cumulative, including the right of either party to seek equitable relief in addition to money damages.

 

8.                                       Employment At-Will Relationship.  Executive and the Company agree that nothing in this Agreement alters the at-will nature of Executive’s employment relationship with the Company.

 

9.                                       Internal Revenue Code Section 409A.   Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, to the extent that any amount or benefit that would constitute non-exempt “deferred compensation” for purposes of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code (“ Section 409A ”) would otherwise be payable or distributable hereunder by reason of a Participant’s termination of employment, such amount or benefit will not be payable or distributable to the Participant by reason of such circumstance unless the circumstances giving rise to such termination of employment meet any description or definition of “separation from service” in Section 409A of the Code and applicable regulations (without giving effect to any elective provisions that may be available under such definition).  For purposes of Section 409A, each installment payable under Section 1(a) and 1(b) of this Agreement shall be deemed to be a separate payment.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have set their hands as of the day and year set forth below.

 

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CITI TRENDS, INC.

 

 

 

 

By:

/s/ Bruce D. Smith

 

Name:

Bruce D. Smith

 

Title:

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

Dated:

3/27/2018

 

 

 

 

/s/ James A. Dunn

 

Employee Name

 

 

 

 

Dated:

3/27/2018

 

5


Exhibit 10.9

 

EMPLOYMENT NON-COMPETE, NON-SOLICIT AND CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT

 

This EMPLOYMENT NON-COMPETE, NON-SOLICIT AND CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT (“ Agreement ”) is entered into between Citi Trends, Inc., including its subsidiaries, affiliates, divisions, successors, and related entities (“ Company ”), and Charles D. Crowell (“ Employee ”), effective as of the date signed by Employee below.

 

This Agreement is intended to and shall supersede and replace that certain Employment Non-Compete, Non-Solicit and Confidentiality Agreement between the Company and Employee dated as of May 1, 2013 (the “ Prior Confidentiality Agreement ”).

 

For and in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements contained herein, including, but not limited to, Company agreeing to employ and/or continuing to employ Employee, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties agree:

 

1.                                       Employment; Scope of Services .  Company shall employ and/or continue to employ Employee, and Employee shall be employed and/or continue to be employed by Company, as Senior Vice President, Supply Chain.  Employee shall use his/her best efforts and shall devote his/her full time, attention, knowledge and skills to the faithful performance of his/her duties and responsibilities as a Company employee.  Employee shall have such authority and such other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Board of Directors.  Employee shall comply with Company’s policies and procedures, shall conduct him/herself as an ethical business professional, and shall comply with federal, state and local laws.

 

2.                                       At-Will Employment .  Nothing in this Agreement alters the at-will employment relationship between Employee and Company or limits Company’s right to alter or modify Employee’s job title or job duties and responsibilities any time at Company’s discretion.  Employment with Company is “at-will” which means that either Employee or Company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without notice, with or without cause.  The date of Employee’s cessation of employment for any reason is the “ Separation Date .”

 

3.                                       Confidentiality .

 

(a)                                  Employee acknowledges and agrees that: (1) the retail sale of value-priced/off-price family apparel is an extremely competitive industry; (2) Company has an ongoing strategy for expansion of its business in the United States; (3) Company’s major competitors operate throughout the United States and some internationally; and (4) because of Employee’s position as Senior Vice President, Supply Chain, he/she will have access to, knowledge of, and be entrusted with, highly sensitive and competitive Confidential Information and Trade Secrets (as defined in subsection (b) below) of Company, including without limitation information regarding sales margins, purchasing and pricing strategies, marketing strategies, vendors and suppliers, plans for expansion and placement of stores, and also specific information about Company’s districts and stores, such as staffing, budgets, profits and the financial success of individual districts and stores, which Company has developed and will continue to develop and the disclosure or use of which would cause Company great and irreparable harm.

 


 

(b)                                  As used herein, “ Confidential Information ” means and includes any and all Company data and information in any form whatsoever (tangible or intangible) which: (1) relates to the business of Company, irrespective of whether the data or information constitutes a “trade secret” (as defined below); (2) is disclosed to Employee or which Employee obtains or becomes aware of as a consequence of Employee’s relationship with Company; (3) has value to Company; and (4) is not generally known to Company’s competitors.  “Confidential Information” includes (but is not limited to) technical or sales data, formulas, patterns, compilations, programs, devices, methods, techniques, drawings, processes, financial data and statements, financial plans and strategies, product plans, sales or advertising information and plans, marketing information and plans, pricing information, the identity or lists of employees, vendors and suppliers of Company, and confidential or proprietary information of such employees, vendors and suppliers.  “ Trade Secret ” means any and all information, knowledge or data in any form whatsoever, tangible or intangible, that is considered a trade secret under applicable law. Employee acknowledges and agrees that all Confidential Information and Trade Secrets are and remain the sole and exclusive property of Company.

 

(c)                                   Employee agrees that he/she shall hold all Confidential Information and Trade Secrets in strictest confidence, and that he/she shall protect such Confidential Information and Trade Secrets from disclosure by or to others.  Employee further agrees that he/she shall not at any time (except as authorized by Company in connection with Employee’s duties and responsibilities as an employee): (1) disclose, publish, transfer, or communicate Confidential Information or Trade Secrets to any person or entity, other than authorized Company personnel; (2) use or reproduce Confidential Information or Trade Secrets for personal benefit or for any purpose or reason other than furthering the legitimate business interest of Company within the scope of Employee’s duties with Company; or (3) remove or transfer any Confidential Information or Trade Secrets from Company’s premises or systems (by any method or means) except for use in Company’s business and consistent with Employee’s duties with the Company.  The foregoing covenants and obligations are in addition to, and do not limit, any common law or statutory rights and/or protections afforded to Company.

 

(d)                                  Employee acknowledges that Company has provided or will provide Employee with Company property, including without limitation, employee handbooks, policy manuals, price lists, financial reports, and vendor and supplier information, among other items.  Upon the Separation Date, or upon the request of Company, Employee shall immediately deliver to Company all property belonging to Company, including without limitation, all Confidential Information, Trade Secrets, and any property related to Company, whether in electronic or other format, as well as any copies thereof, then in Employee’s custody, control, or possession.  Upon the Separation Date, Employee shall provide Company with a declaration certifying that all Confidential Information and any other Company property have been returned to Company, that Employee has not kept any copies of such items or distributed such items to any third party, and that Employee has otherwise complied with the terms of Section 3 of this Agreement.

 

(e)                                   Employee shall not be held criminally or civilly liable under any federal or state trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret (as defined in section 1839 of title 18, United States Code) that (A) is made (i) in confidence to a federal, state, or local government official, either directly or indirectly, or to an attorney; and (ii) solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law; or (B) is made in a complaint or other document filed

 

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in a lawsuit or other proceeding, if such filing is made under seal.  If Employee files a lawsuit for retaliation by the Company for reporting a suspected violation of law, Employee may disclose the trade secret to the attorney of Employee and use the trade secret information in the court proceeding if Employee (A) files any document containing the trade secret under seal; and (B) does not disclose the trade secret, except as permitted by court order.

 

4.                                       Covenant Not to Compete .  Employee acknowledges and agrees that Company has invested a great deal of time and money in developing relationships with its employees, customers, and “Merchandise Vendors” (as defined below).  Employee further acknowledges and agrees that in rendering services to Company, Employee has been, will be and will continue to be exposed to and learn much information about Company’s business, including valuable Confidential Information and Trade Secrets, the Company’s employees, and the Company’s “Merchandise Vendors,” to which Employee would not have access if not for Employee’s employment with Company and which it would be unfair to disclose to others, or to use to Company’s disadvantage.

 

Employee acknowledges and agrees that the restrictions contained in this Agreement are necessary and reasonable to protect Company’s legitimate business interests in its Trade Secrets, valuable Confidential Information and relationships and goodwill with its employees, customers, and “Merchandising Vendors.”  Employee further acknowledges that Employee’s skills, education and training qualify Employee to work and obtain employment which does not violate this Agreement and that the restrictions in this Agreement have been crafted as narrowly as reasonably possible to protect Company’s legitimate business interests in its Trade Secrets, valuable Confidential Information and relationships and goodwill with its employees, customers, and “Merchandising Vendors.”

 

In light of the foregoing, Employee agrees that he/she will not, at any point during his/her employment with Company, work for or engage or participate in any business, enterprise, or endeavor that in any way competes with any aspect of Company’s business or that otherwise conflicts with Company’s interests.  In addition, for a period of one (1) year following the Separation Date, and regardless of the reason for separation, Employee shall not, within any geographic area in which Company does business at any time during Employee’s employment with Company: (a) become employed by or work for a “Competitor” (as defined below) in any position or capacity involving duties and/or responsibilities which are the same as or substantially similar to any of the duties and/or responsibilities Employee had with and/or performed for Company; or (b) perform or provide any services which are the same as or substantially similar to any of the services which Employee performed or provided for the Company, for or on behalf of any Competitor.  For purposes of this Section 4, the term “ Competitor ” shall mean only the following businesses, commonly known as: Cato, TJX (including without limitation TJMAXX and Marshalls), Burlington Stores, Gabe’s/Rugged Wearhouse, and Ross Stores.

 

5.                                       Covenant Not to Solicit .   During Employee’s employment with Company, and for a period of eighteen (18) months following the Separation Date, and regardless of the reason for separation, Employee agrees not to solicit any “Merchandise Vendors” (as defined below) for the purpose of obtaining merchandise and/or inventory for or on behalf of any “Competitor” (as defined in Section 4 of this Agreement).  As used herein, “ Merchandise Vendors ” means and

 

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includes any person or entity who/that has been a vendor or supplier of merchandise and/or inventory to Company during the eighteen (18) months immediately preceding the Separation Date or to whom/which Company is actively soliciting for the provision of merchandise and/or inventory, and with whom/which Employee had “material contact.”  For purposes of this agreement, “ material contact ” means contact between Employee and an existing or prospective Merchandise Vendor: (a) with whom Employee dealt on behalf of Company within two years prior to the date of Employee’s termination; (b) whose dealings with Company were coordinated or supervised by Employee within two years prior to the date of Employee’s termination; (c) about whom Employee obtained Confidential Information in the ordinary course of business as a result of Employee’s association with Company within two years prior to the date of Employee’s termination; or, (d) who provides merchandise and/or inventory to Company, the provision of which results or resulted in compensation, commissions, or earnings for Employee within two years prior to the date of Employee’s termination.

 

Employee specifically acknowledges and agrees that, as Senior Vice President, Supply Chain, his/her duties include, without limitation, establishing purchasing and pricing strategies and policies, managing sales margins, involvement in establishing and maintaining vendor relationships, and having contact with and confidential and/or proprietary information regarding Merchandise Vendors.

 

6.                                       Covenant Not to Recruit Personnel .  During Employee’s employment with Company, and for a period of two (2) years following the Separation Date, and regardless of the reason for separation, Employee will not: (a) recruit or solicit to hire or assist others in recruiting or soliciting to hire, any employee or independent contractor of Company; or (b) cause or assist others in causing any employee or independent contractor of Company to terminate his/her relationship with Company.

 

7.                                       Severability .  If any provision of this Agreement is held invalid, illegal, or otherwise unenforceable, in whole or in part, the remaining provisions, and any partially enforceable provisions to the extent enforceable, shall be binding and remain in full force and effect.  Further, each particular prohibition or restriction set forth in any Section of this Agreement shall be deemed a severable unit, and if any court of competent jurisdiction determines that any portion of such prohibition or restriction is against the policy of the law in any respect, but such restraint, considered as a whole, is not so clearly unreasonable and overreaching in its terms as to be unconscionable, the court shall enforce so much of such restraint as is determined to be reasonably necessary to protect the legitimate interests of Company.  Employee and Company expressly agree that, should any court of competent jurisdiction find or determine that any of the covenants contained herein are overly-broad or otherwise unenforceable, the court may “blue-pencil,” modify, and/or reform any such covenant (in whole or in part) so as to cure the over-breadth or to otherwise render the covenant enforceable.

 

8.                                       Survival of Covenants .  All rights and covenants contained in Sections 3, 4, 5, and 6 of this Agreement, and all remedies relating thereto, shall survive the termination of this Agreement for any reason.

 

9.                                       Binding Effect .  The covenants, terms, and provisions set forth in this Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by Company and its successors, assigns, and

 

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successors-in-interest, including, without limitation, any corporation, partnership, or other entity with which Company may be merged or by which it may be acquired.  Employee may not assign Employee’s rights or obligations under this Agreement to any other party.

 

10.                                Governing Law .  All matters affecting this Agreement, including the validity thereof, are to be subject to, and interpreted and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of Georgia applicable to contracts executed in and to be performed in that State.

 

11.                                No Interference with Rights .  Employee understands, agrees and acknowledges that nothing contained in this Agreement will prevent Employee from filing a charge or complaint with, reporting possible violations of any law or regulation, making disclosures to, and/or participating in any investigation or proceeding conducted by, the National Labor Relations Board, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and/or any governmental authority charged with the enforcement of any laws.

 

12.                                Acknowledgment of Reasonableness/Remedies/Enforcement .

 

(a)                                  Employee acknowledges that: (1) Company has valid interests to protect pursuant to Sections 3, 4, 5, and 6 of this Agreement; (2) the breach of the provisions of Sections 3, 4, 5, or 6 of this Agreement would result in irreparable injury and permanent damage to Company; and (3) such restrictions are reasonable and necessary to protect the interests of Company, are critical to the success of Company’s business, and do not cause undue hardship on Employee.

 

(b)                                  Employee agrees that determining damages in the event of a breach of Sections 3, 4, 5, or 6 by Employee would be difficult and that money damages alone would be an inadequate remedy for the injuries and damages which would be suffered by Company from such breach.  Therefore, Employee agrees that Company shall be entitled (in addition to any other remedies it may have under this Agreement, at law, or otherwise) to immediate injunctive and other equitable relief to prevent or curtail any such breach or threatened breach by Employee.  Employee and Company waive any requirement that a bond or any other security be posted.  Nothing in this Agreement shall prohibit Company from seeking or recovering any legal or monetary damages to which it may be entitled if Employee breaches any provision in this Agreement.

 

(c)                                   In the event Employee breaches this Agreement, Employee shall be liable to Company for all costs of enforcement, including attorneys’ fees and court costs, in addition to all other damages and redress available to Company in equity or in law.

 

13.                                Miscellaneous .  This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties and supersedes any and all prior contracts, agreements, or understandings between the parties which may have been entered into by Company and Employee relating to the subject matter hereof (including, without limitation, the Prior Confidentiality Agreement), except for any severance agreements or certain restricted stock award and stock option agreements, which are to remain in full force and effect.  This Agreement may not be amended or modified in any manner except by an instrument in writing signed by both Company and Employee.  The failure of either party to enforce at any time any of the provisions of this Agreement shall in no way be construed to be a waiver of any such provision or the right of such party thereafter to enforce each and every such

 

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provision.  No waiver of any breach of this Agreement shall be held to be a waiver of any other or subsequent breach.  All remedies are cumulative, including the right of either party to seek equitable relief in addition to money damages.

 

EMPLOYEE ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT HE/SHE HAS CAREFULLY READ THIS AGREEMENT AND KNOWS AND UNDERSTANDS ITS CONTENTS, THAT HE/SHE ENTERS INTO THIS AGREEMENT KNOWINGLY AND VOLUNTARILY, AND THAT HE/SHE INDICATES HIS/HER CONSENT BY SIGNING THIS FINAL PAGE.

 

(SIGNATURES TO FOLLOW ON NEXT PAGE)

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement under seal as of the day and year set forth below.

 

Citi Trends, Inc.

/s/ Charles D. Crowell

 

Employee Signature

 

 

By:

/s/ Bruce D. Smith

 

Date:

Bruce D. Smith

 3/30/2018

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

Date:

 

Employee Residence Address:

 3/30/2018

 

 

 

 

 

7


Exhibit 10.10

 

SEVERANCE AGREEMENT

 

This SEVERANCE AGREEMENT (“ Agreement ”) is entered into between Citi Trends, Inc., a Delaware corporation, including its subsidiaries, affiliates, divisions, successors, and related entities (the “ Company ”), and Charles D. Crowell, an individual (the “ Executive ”), effective as of the date signed by Executive below.

 

WHEREAS, this Agreement is intended to and shall supersede and replace that certain Severance Agreement between the Company and Employee dated as of May 1, 2013 (the “ Prior Severance Agreement ”).

 

WHEREAS, the Company and the Executive are also parties to an Employment Non-Compete, Non-Solicit and Confidentiality Agreement (the “ Confidentiality Agreement ”) and certain restricted stock award and stock option agreements (collectively, the “ Equity Agreements ”), which are to remain in full force and effect;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual agreements set forth herein, the parties agree as follows:

 

1.                                       Termination Payments and Benefits.   Regardless of the circumstances of the Executive’s termination, Executive shall be entitled to payment when due of any earned and unpaid base salary, expense reimbursements and vacation days accrued prior to the termination of Executive’s employment, and other unpaid vested amounts or benefits under Company retirement and health benefit plans, and, as applicable, under Equity Agreements in accordance with their terms, and to no other compensation or benefits.

 

(a)                                  If (i) the Company terminates the Executive’s employment without Cause, or (ii) the Executive terminates employment with the Company within twelve (12) months following the occurrence of a Change in Control, provided that within such period, (a) either Executive’s job duties have been materially and permanently diminished or the Executive’s compensation has been materially decreased and (b) Executive provides written notice to the Company within ninety (90) days of the occurrence of an aforementioned event and the Company fails to cure the event within thirty (30) days following the Company’s receipt of the Executive’s written notice, then, in the case of either (i) or (ii) above, the Company will provide the Executive with separation payments of twelve (12) months base salary at Executive’s base salary rate at the time of Executive’s termination or if greater, the Executive’s base rate in effect on the Change of Control Date; to be paid in twenty-six (26) regular bi-weekly pay periods beginning on the first pay period occurring after the sixtieth (60th) day following the Executive’s termination, provided the Executive executes and does not subsequently revoke the Separation and General Release Agreement referenced below within such sixty (60) day period.

 

(b)                                  For a period of twelve (12) months from the Executive’s separation from service, the Company will pay to the Executive an amount, minus all applicable taxes and withholdings, equal to the full monthly cost (including any portion of the cost previously paid by the employee) to provide the same level of group health benefits maintained by Executive as of Executive’s separation from service, provided the Executive executes and does not subsequently revoke the Separation and General Release Agreement referenced below within such sixty (60) day period.

 


 

(c)                                   For purposes of this Agreement, “ Change in Control ” shall mean the occurrence of any one of the following events:

 

(i)                                      the acquisition by any individual, entity or group (within the meaning of Section 13(d)(3) or 14(d)(2) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “ 1934 Act ”)) (a “ Person ”) of beneficial ownership (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 promulgated under the 1934 Act) of 50% or more of the combined voting power of the then outstanding voting securities of the Company entitled to vote generally in the election of directors (the “ Outstanding Company Voting Securities ”); provided, however, that for purposes of this subsection (1), the following acquisitions shall not constitute a Change of Control: (i) any acquisition by a Person who is on the date of this Agreement the beneficial owner of 50% or more of the Outstanding Company Voting Securities, (ii) any acquisition directly from the Company, (iii) any acquisition by the Company, (iv) any acquisition by any employee benefit plan (or related trust) sponsored or maintained by the Company or any corporation controlled by the Company, or (v) any acquisition by any corporation pursuant to a transaction which complies with clauses (i), (ii) and (iii) of subsection (3) of this definition; or

 

(ii)                                   individuals who, as of the date of this Agreement, constitute the Board of Directors of the Company (the “ Incumbent Board ”) cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority of the Board of Directors of the Company; provided, however, that any individual becoming a director subsequent to the Effective Date whose election, or nomination for election by the Company’s shareholders, was approved by a vote of at least a majority of the directors then comprising the Incumbent Board shall be considered as though such individual were a member of the Incumbent Board, but excluding, for this purpose, any such individual whose initial assumption of office occurs as a result of an actual or threatened election contest with respect to the election or removal of directors or other actual or threatened solicitation of proxies or consents by or on behalf of a Person other than the Board of Directors of the Company; or

 

(iii)                                consummation of a reorganization, merger, consolidation or share exchange or sale or other disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company (a “ Business Combination ”), in each case, unless, following such Business Combination, (i) all or substantially all of the individuals and entities who were the beneficial owners of the Outstanding Company Voting Securities immediately prior to such Business Combination beneficially own, directly or indirectly, more than 50% of the combined voting power of the then outstanding voting securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors of the corporation resulting from such Business Combination (including, without limitation, a corporation which as a result of such transaction owns the Company or all or substantially all of the Company’s assets either directly or through one or more subsidiaries) in substantially the same proportions as their ownership, immediately prior to such Business Combination of the Outstanding Company Voting Securities, and (ii) no Person (excluding any corporation resulting from such Business Combination or any employee benefit plan (or related trust) of the Company or such corporation resulting from such Business Combination) beneficially owns, directly or indirectly, 20% or more of the combined voting power of the then outstanding voting securities of such corporation except to the extent that such ownership existed prior to the Business Combination, and (iii) at least a majority of the members of the board of directors of the corporation resulting from such Business Combination were members of the Incumbent Board at the time of the execution of the initial agreement, or of the action of the Board, providing for such Business Combination; or

 

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(iv)                               approval by the shareholders of the Company of a complete liquidation or dissolution of the Company.

 

(d)                                  The separation payments and benefits described in Sections 1(a) and 1(b), above, are conditioned upon Executive executing a Separation and General Release Agreement at the time of termination, which releases and waives any and all claims against the Company and its affiliated persons and companies, and is acceptable to the Company.

 

(e)                                   In all other circumstances of separation, including if the Executive resigns, retires or is terminated for Cause, the Executive shall not be entitled to receive any separation payments or benefits.  For purposes of this Agreement, “ Cause ” shall mean the Executive’s:

 

(i)                                      commission of an act of fraud or dishonesty, the purpose or effect of which, in the CEO and/or Board’s sole determination, adversely affects the Company;

 

(ii)                                   conviction of a felony or a crime involving embezzlement, conversion of property or moral turpitude (whether by plea of nolo contendere or otherwise);

 

(iii)                                engaging in willful or reckless misconduct or gross negligence in connection with any property or activity of the Company, the purpose or effect of which, in the CEO and/or Board’s sole determination, adversely affects the Company;

 

(iv)                               material breach of any of the Executive’s obligations as an employee or  stockholder as set forth in the Company’s Information Security Policies and Code of Business Conduct, the Confidentiality Agreement or any other agreement in effect between the Company and the Executive; provided that, in the event such breach is susceptible to cure, the Executive has been given written notice by the CEO and/or Board of such breach and 30 days from such notice fails to cure the breach; or

 

(v)                                  failure or refusal to perform any material duty or responsibility under this Agreement or a determination that the Executive has breached his fiduciary obligations to the Company; provided that, in the event such failure, refusal or breach is susceptible to cure, the Executive has been given written notice by the CEO and/or Board of such failure, refusal or breach and 30 days from such notice fails to cure such failure, refusal or breach.

 

2.                                       Notice.   The Executive will send all communications to the Company in writing, to: Executive Vice President of Human Resources, Citi Trends, Inc., 104 Coleman Blvd., Savannah, Georgia 31408, Fax: (912) 443-3663.  All communications from the Company to the Executive relating to this Agreement shall be sent to the Executive in writing at his office and home address as reflected in the Company’s records.

 

3.                                       Amendment.   No provisions of this Agreement may be modified, waived, or discharged except by a written document signed by a duly authorized Company officer and the Executive.  A waiver of any conditions or provisions of this Agreement in a given instance shall not be deemed a waiver of such conditions or provisions at any other time in the future.

 

4.                                       Choice of Law and Venue.   The validity, interpretation, construction, and performance of this Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Georgia (excluding any that mandate

 

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the use of another jurisdiction’s laws).  Any action to enforce or for breach of this Agreement shall be brought exclusively in the state or federal courts of the County of Chatham, City of Savannah.

 

5.                                       Successors.   This Agreement shall be binding upon, and shall inure to the benefit of, the Executive and Executive’s estate, but the Executive may not assign or pledge this Agreement or any rights arising under it, except to the extent permitted under the terms of the benefit plans in which Executive participates.  Without the Executive’s consent, the Company may assign this Agreement to any affiliate or to a successor to substantially all the business and assets of the Company.

 

6.                                       Counterparts.   This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which together shall constitute the same instrument.

 

7.                                       Entire Agreement.   This Agreement and the Confidentiality Agreement between the parties constitute the entire agreement between the parties and supersede any and all prior contracts, agreements, or understandings between the parties which may have been entered into by Company and the Executive relating to the subject matter hereof (including, without limitation, the Prior Severance Agreement), except for the Equity Agreements, which are to remain in full force and effect.  This Agreement may not be amended or modified in any manner except by an instrument in writing signed by both the Company and the Executive.  The failure of either party to enforce at any time any of the provisions of this Agreement shall in no way be construed to be a waiver of any such provision or the right of such party thereafter to enforce each and every such provision.  No waiver of any breach of this Agreement shall be held to be a waiver of any other or subsequent breach.  All remedies are cumulative, including the right of either party to seek equitable relief in addition to money damages.

 

8.                                       Employment At-Will Relationship.  Executive and the Company agree that nothing in this Agreement alters the at-will nature of Executive’s employment relationship with the Company.

 

9.                                       Internal Revenue Code Section 409A.   Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, to the extent that any amount or benefit that would constitute non-exempt “deferred compensation” for purposes of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code (“ Section 409A ”) would otherwise be payable or distributable hereunder by reason of a Participant’s termination of employment, such amount or benefit will not be payable or distributable to the Participant by reason of such circumstance unless the circumstances giving rise to such termination of employment meet any description or definition of “separation from service” in Section 409A of the Code and applicable regulations (without giving effect to any elective provisions that may be available under such definition).  For purposes of Section 409A, each installment payable under Section 1(a) and 1(b) of this Agreement shall be deemed to be a separate payment.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have set their hands as of the day and year set forth below.

 

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CITI TRENDS, INC.

 

 

 

 

By:

/s/ Bruch D. Smith

 

Name:

Bruce D. Smith

 

Title:

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

Dated:

3/30/2018

 

 

 

 

/s/ Charles D. Crowell

 

Employee Name

 

 

 

Dated:

3/30/2018

 

5


Exhibit 10.11

 

EMPLOYMENT NON-COMPETE, NON-SOLICIT AND CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT

 

This EMPLOYMENT NON-COMPETE, NON-SOLICIT AND CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT (“ Agreement ”) is entered into between Citi Trends, Inc., including its subsidiaries, affiliates, divisions, successors, and related entities (“ Company ”), and Brian Lattman (“ Employee ”), effective as of the date signed by Employee below.

 

For and in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements contained herein, including, but not limited to, Company agreeing to employ and/or continuing to employ Employee, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties agree:

 

1.                                       Employment; Scope of Services .  Company shall employ and/or continue to employ Employee, and Employee shall be employed and/or continue to be employed by Company, as Senior Vice President, General Merchandise Manager.  Employee shall use his/her best efforts and shall devote his/her full time, attention, knowledge and skills to the faithful performance of his/her duties and responsibilities as a Company employee.  Employee shall have such authority and such other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Board of Directors.  Employee shall comply with Company’s policies and procedures, shall conduct him/herself as an ethical business professional, and shall comply with federal, state and local laws.

 

2.                                       At-Will Employment .  Nothing in this Agreement alters the at-will employment relationship between Employee and Company or limits Company’s right to alter or modify Employee’s job title or job duties and responsibilities any time at Company’s discretion.  Employment with Company is “at-will” which means that either Employee or Company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without notice, with or without cause.  The date of Employee’s cessation of employment for any reason is the “ Separation Date .”

 

3.                                       Confidentiality .

 

(a)                                  Employee acknowledges and agrees that: (1) the retail sale of value-priced/off-price family apparel is an extremely competitive industry; (2) Company has an ongoing strategy for expansion of its business in the United States; (3) Company’s major competitors operate throughout the United States and some internationally; and (4) because of Employee’s position as Senior Vice President, General Merchandise Manager he/she will have access to, knowledge of, and be entrusted with, highly sensitive and competitive Confidential Information and Trade Secrets (as defined in subsection (b) below) of Company, including without limitation information regarding sales margins, purchasing and pricing strategies, marketing strategies, vendors and suppliers, plans for expansion and placement of stores, and also specific information about Company’s districts and stores, such as staffing, budgets, profits and the financial success of individual districts and stores, which Company has developed and will continue to develop and the disclosure or use of which would cause Company great and irreparable harm.

 

(b)                                  As used herein, “ Confidential Information ” means and includes any and all Company data and information in any form whatsoever (tangible or intangible) which: (1) relates to the business of Company, irrespective of whether the data or information constitutes a “trade

 


 

secret” (as defined below); (2) is disclosed to Employee or which Employee obtains or becomes aware of as a consequence of Employee’s relationship with Company; (3) has value to Company; and (4) is not generally known to Company’s competitors.  “Confidential Information” includes (but is not limited to) technical or sales data, formulas, patterns, compilations, programs, devices, methods, techniques, drawings, processes, financial data and statements, financial plans and strategies, product plans, sales or advertising information and plans, marketing information and plans, pricing information, the identity or lists of employees, vendors and suppliers of Company, and confidential or proprietary information of such employees, vendors and suppliers.  “ Trade Secret ” means any and all information, knowledge or data in any form whatsoever, tangible or intangible, that is considered a trade secret under applicable law. Employee acknowledges and agrees that all Confidential Information and Trade Secrets are and remain the sole and exclusive property of Company.

 

(c)                                   Employee agrees that he/she shall hold all Confidential Information and Trade Secrets in strictest confidence, and that he/she shall protect such Confidential Information and Trade Secrets from disclosure by or to others.  Employee further agrees that he/she shall not at any time (except as authorized by Company in connection with Employee’s duties and responsibilities as an employee): (1) disclose, publish, transfer, or communicate Confidential Information or Trade Secrets to any person or entity, other than authorized Company personnel; (2) use or reproduce Confidential Information or Trade Secrets for personal benefit or for any purpose or reason other than furthering the legitimate business interest of Company within the scope of Employee’s duties with Company; or (3) remove or transfer any Confidential Information or Trade Secrets from Company’s premises or systems (by any method or means) except for use in Company’s business and consistent with Employee’s duties with the Company.  The foregoing covenants and obligations are in addition to, and do not limit, any common law or statutory rights and/or protections afforded to Company.

 

(d)                                  Employee acknowledges that Company has provided or will provide Employee with Company property, including without limitation, employee handbooks, policy manuals, price lists, financial reports, and vendor and supplier information, among other items.  Upon the Separation Date, or upon the request of Company, Employee shall immediately deliver to Company all property belonging to Company, including without limitation, all Confidential Information, Trade Secrets, and any property related to Company, whether in electronic or other format, as well as any copies thereof, then in Employee’s custody, control, or possession.  Upon the Separation Date, Employee shall provide Company with a declaration certifying that all Confidential Information and any other Company property have been returned to Company, that Employee has not kept any copies of such items or distributed such items to any third party, and that Employee has otherwise complied with the terms of Section 3 of this Agreement.

 

(e)                                   Employee shall not be held criminally or civilly liable under any federal or state trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret (as defined in section 1839 of title 18, United States Code) that (A) is made (i) in confidence to a federal, state, or local government official, either directly or indirectly, or to an attorney; and (ii) solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law; or (B) is made in a complaint or other document filed in a lawsuit or other proceeding, if such filing is made under seal.  If Employee files a lawsuit for retaliation by the Company for reporting a suspected violation of law, Employee may disclose the trade secret to the attorney of Employee and use the trade secret information in the court

 

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proceeding if Employee (A) files any document containing the trade secret under seal; and (B) does not disclose the trade secret, except as permitted by court order.

 

4.                                       Covenant Not to Compete .  Employee acknowledges and agrees that Company has invested a great deal of time and money in developing relationships with its employees, customers, and “Merchandise Vendors” (as defined below).  Employee further acknowledges and agrees that in rendering services to Company, Employee has been, will be and will continue to be exposed to and learn much information about Company’s business, including valuable Confidential Information and Trade Secrets, the Company’s employees, and the Company’s “Merchandise Vendors,” to which Employee would not have access if not for Employee’s employment with Company and which it would be unfair to disclose to others, or to use to Company’s disadvantage.

 

Employee acknowledges and agrees that the restrictions contained in this Agreement are necessary and reasonable to protect Company’s legitimate business interests in its Trade Secrets, valuable Confidential Information and relationships and goodwill with its employees, customers, and “Merchandising Vendors.”  Employee further acknowledges that Employee’s skills, education and training qualify Employee to work and obtain employment which does not violate this Agreement and that the restrictions in this Agreement have been crafted as narrowly as reasonably possible to protect Company’s legitimate business interests in its Trade Secrets, valuable Confidential Information and relationships and goodwill with its employees, customers, and “Merchandising Vendors.”

 

In light of the foregoing, Employee agrees that he/she will not, at any point during his/her employment with Company, work for or engage or participate in any business, enterprise, or endeavor that in any way competes with any aspect of Company’s business or that otherwise conflicts with Company’s interests.  In addition, for a period of one (1) year following the Separation Date, and regardless of the reason for separation, Employee shall not, within any geographic area in which Company does business at any time during Employee’s employment with Company: (a) become employed by or work for a “Competitor” (as defined below) in any position or capacity involving duties and/or responsibilities which are the same as or substantially similar to any of the duties and/or responsibilities Employee had with and/or performed for Company; or (b) perform or provide any services which are the same as or substantially similar to any of the services which Employee performed or provided for the Company, for or on behalf of any Competitor.  For purposes of this Section 4, the term “ Competitor ” shall mean only the following businesses, commonly known as: Cato, TJX (including without limitation TJMAXX and Marshalls), Burlington Stores, Gabe’s/Rugged Wearhouse, and Ross Stores.

 

5.                                       Covenant Not to Solicit .   During Employee’s employment with Company, and for a period of eighteen (18) months following the Separation Date, and regardless of the reason for separation, Employee agrees not to solicit any “Merchandise Vendors” (as defined below) for the purpose of obtaining merchandise and/or inventory for or on behalf of any “Competitor” (as defined in Section 4 of this Agreement).  As used herein, “ Merchandise Vendors ” means and includes any person or entity who/that has been a vendor or supplier of merchandise and/or inventory to Company during the eighteen (18) months immediately preceding the Separation Date or to whom/which Company is actively soliciting for the provision of merchandise and/or

 

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inventory, and with whom/which Employee had “material contact.”  For purposes of this agreement, “ material contact ” means contact between Employee and an existing or prospective Merchandise Vendor: (a) with whom Employee dealt on behalf of Company within two years prior to the date of Employee’s termination; (b) whose dealings with Company were coordinated or supervised by Employee within two years prior to the date of Employee’s termination; (c) about whom Employee obtained Confidential Information in the ordinary course of business as a result of Employee’s association with Company within two years prior to the date of Employee’s termination; or, (d) who provides merchandise and/or inventory to Company, the provision of which results or resulted in compensation, commissions, or earnings for Employee within two years prior to the date of Employee’s termination.

 

Employee specifically acknowledges and agrees that, as Senior Vice President, General Merchandise Manager, his/her duties include, without limitation, establishing purchasing and pricing strategies and policies, managing sales margins, involvement in establishing and maintaining vendor relationships, and having contact with and confidential and/or proprietary information regarding Merchandise Vendors.

 

6.                                       Covenant Not to Recruit Personnel .  During Employee’s employment with Company, and for a period of two (2) years following the Separation Date, and regardless of the reason for separation, Employee will not: (a) recruit or solicit to hire or assist others in recruiting or soliciting to hire, any employee or independent contractor of Company; or (b) cause or assist others in causing any employee or independent contractor of Company to terminate his/her relationship with Company.

 

7.                                       Severability .  If any provision of this Agreement is held invalid, illegal, or otherwise unenforceable, in whole or in part, the remaining provisions, and any partially enforceable provisions to the extent enforceable, shall be binding and remain in full force and effect.  Further, each particular prohibition or restriction set forth in any Section of this Agreement shall be deemed a severable unit, and if any court of competent jurisdiction determines that any portion of such prohibition or restriction is against the policy of the law in any respect, but such restraint, considered as a whole, is not so clearly unreasonable and overreaching in its terms as to be unconscionable, the court shall enforce so much of such restraint as is determined to be reasonably necessary to protect the legitimate interests of Company.  Employee and Company expressly agree that, should any court of competent jurisdiction find or determine that any of the covenants contained herein are overly-broad or otherwise unenforceable, the court may “blue-pencil,” modify, and/or reform any such covenant (in whole or in part) so as to cure the over-breadth or to otherwise render the covenant enforceable.

 

8.                                       Survival of Covenants .  All rights and covenants contained in Sections 3, 4, 5, and 6 of this Agreement, and all remedies relating thereto, shall survive the termination of this Agreement for any reason.

 

9.                                       Binding Effect .  The covenants, terms, and provisions set forth in this Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by Company and its successors, assigns, and successors-in-interest, including, without limitation, any corporation, partnership, or other entity with which Company may be merged or by which it may be acquired.  Employee may not assign Employee’s rights or obligations under this Agreement to any other party.

 

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10.                                Governing Law .  All matters affecting this Agreement, including the validity thereof, are to be subject to, and interpreted and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of Georgia applicable to contracts executed in and to be performed in that State.

 

11.                                No Interference with Rights .  Employee understands, agrees and acknowledges that nothing contained in this Agreement will prevent Employee from filing a charge or complaint with, reporting possible violations of any law or regulation, making disclosures to, and/or participating in any investigation or proceeding conducted by, the National Labor Relations Board, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and/or any governmental authority charged with the enforcement of any laws.

 

12.                                Acknowledgment of Reasonableness/Remedies/Enforcement .

 

(a)                                  Employee acknowledges that: (1) Company has valid interests to protect pursuant to Sections 3, 4, 5, and 6 of this Agreement; (2) the breach of the provisions of Sections 3, 4, 5, or 6 of this Agreement would result in irreparable injury and permanent damage to Company; and (3) such restrictions are reasonable and necessary to protect the interests of Company, are critical to the success of Company’s business, and do not cause undue hardship on Employee.

 

(b)                                  Employee agrees that determining damages in the event of a breach of Sections 3, 4, 5, or 6 by Employee would be difficult and that money damages alone would be an inadequate remedy for the injuries and damages which would be suffered by Company from such breach.  Therefore, Employee agrees that Company shall be entitled (in addition to any other remedies it may have under this Agreement, at law, or otherwise) to immediate injunctive and other equitable relief to prevent or curtail any such breach or threatened breach by Employee.  Employee and Company waive any requirement that a bond or any other security be posted.  Nothing in this Agreement shall prohibit Company from seeking or recovering any legal or monetary damages to which it may be entitled if Employee breaches any provision in this Agreement.

 

(c)                                   In the event Employee breaches this Agreement, Employee shall be liable to Company for all costs of enforcement, including attorneys’ fees and court costs, in addition to all other damages and redress available to Company in equity or in law.

 

13.                                Miscellaneous .  This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties and supersedes any and all prior contracts, agreements, or understandings between the parties which may have been entered into by Company and Employee relating to the subject matter hereof (including, without limitation, the Prior Confidentiality Agreement), except for any severance agreements or certain restricted stock award and stock option agreements, which are to remain in full force and effect.  This Agreement may not be amended or modified in any manner except by an instrument in writing signed by both Company and Employee.  The failure of either party to enforce at any time any of the provisions of this Agreement shall in no way be construed to be a waiver of any such provision or the right of such party thereafter to enforce each and every such provision.  No waiver of any breach of this Agreement shall be held to be a waiver of any other or subsequent breach.  All remedies are cumulative, including the right of either party to seek equitable relief in addition to money damages.

 

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EMPLOYEE ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT HE/SHE HAS CAREFULLY READ THIS AGREEMENT AND KNOWS AND UNDERSTANDS ITS CONTENTS, THAT HE/SHE ENTERS INTO THIS AGREEMENT KNOWINGLY AND VOLUNTARILY, AND THAT HE/SHE INDICATES HIS/HER CONSENT BY SIGNING THIS FINAL PAGE.

 

(SIGNATURES TO FOLLOW ON NEXT PAGE)

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement under seal as of the day and year set forth below.

 

Citi Trends, Inc.

/s/ Brian Lattman

 

Employee Signature

 

 

 

 

By:

/s/ Bruce D. Smith

 

Date:

Bruce D. Smith

 3/30/2018

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

Date:

 3/30/2018

 

Employee Residence Address:

 

 

 

 

 

 

7


Exhibit 10.12

 

SEVERANCE AGREEMENT

 

This SEVERANCE AGREEMENT (“ Agreement ”) is entered into between Citi Trends, Inc., a Delaware corporation, including its subsidiaries, affiliates, divisions, successors, and related entities (the “ Company ”), and Brian Lattman, an individual (the “ Executive ”), effective as of the date signed by Executive below.

 

WHEREAS, the Company and the Executive are also parties to an Employment Non-Compete, Non-Solicit and Confidentiality Agreement (the “ Confidentiality Agreement ”) and certain restricted stock award and stock option agreements (collectively, the “ Equity Agreements ”), which are to remain in full force and effect;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual agreements set forth herein, the parties agree as follows:

 

1.                                       Termination Payments and Benefits.   Regardless of the circumstances of the Executive’s termination, Executive shall be entitled to payment when due of any earned and unpaid base salary, expense reimbursements and vacation days accrued prior to the termination of Executive’s employment, and other unpaid vested amounts or benefits under Company retirement and health benefit plans, and, as applicable, under Equity Agreements in accordance with their terms, and to no other compensation or benefits.

 

(a)                                  If (i) the Company terminates the Executive’s employment without Cause, or (ii) the Executive terminates employment with the Company within twelve (12) months following the occurrence of a Change in Control, provided that within such period, (a) either Executive’s job duties have been materially and permanently diminished or the Executive’s compensation has been materially decreased and (b) Executive provides written notice to the Company within ninety (90) days of the occurrence of an aforementioned event and the Company fails to cure the event within thirty (30) days following the Company’s receipt of the Executive’s written notice, then, in the case of either (i) or (ii) above, the Company will provide the Executive with separation payments of twelve (12) months base salary at Executive’s base salary rate at the time of Executive’s termination or if greater, the Executive’s base rate in effect on the Change of Control Date; to be paid in twenty-six (26) regular bi-weekly pay periods beginning on the first pay period occurring after the sixtieth (60th) day following the Executive’s termination, provided the Executive executes and does not subsequently revoke the Separation and General Release Agreement referenced below within such sixty (60) day period.

 

(b)                                  For a period of twelve (12) months from the Executive’s separation from service, the Company will pay to the Executive an amount, minus all applicable taxes and withholdings, equal to the full monthly cost (including any portion of the cost previously paid by the employee) to provide the same level of group health benefits maintained by Executive as of Executive’s separation from service, provided the Executive executes and does not subsequently revoke the Separation and General Release Agreement referenced below within such sixty (60) day period.

 

(c)                                   For purposes of this Agreement, “ Change in Control ” shall mean the occurrence of any one of the following events:

 


 

(i)                                      the acquisition by any individual, entity or group (within the meaning of Section 13(d)(3) or 14(d)(2) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “ 1934 Act ”)) (a “ Person ”) of beneficial ownership (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 promulgated under the 1934 Act) of 50% or more of the combined voting power of the then outstanding voting securities of the Company entitled to vote generally in the election of directors (the “ Outstanding Company Voting Securities ”); provided, however, that for purposes of this subsection (1), the following acquisitions shall not constitute a Change of Control: (i) any acquisition by a Person who is on the date of this Agreement the beneficial owner of 50% or more of the Outstanding Company Voting Securities, (ii) any acquisition directly from the Company, (iii) any acquisition by the Company, (iv) any acquisition by any employee benefit plan (or related trust) sponsored or maintained by the Company or any corporation controlled by the Company, or (v) any acquisition by any corporation pursuant to a transaction which complies with clauses (i), (ii) and (iii) of subsection (3) of this definition; or

 

(ii)                                   individuals who, as of the date of this Agreement, constitute the Board of Directors of the Company (the “ Incumbent Board ”) cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority of the Board of Directors of the Company; provided, however, that any individual becoming a director subsequent to the Effective Date whose election, or nomination for election by the Company’s shareholders, was approved by a vote of at least a majority of the directors then comprising the Incumbent Board shall be considered as though such individual were a member of the Incumbent Board, but excluding, for this purpose, any such individual whose initial assumption of office occurs as a result of an actual or threatened election contest with respect to the election or removal of directors or other actual or threatened solicitation of proxies or consents by or on behalf of a Person other than the Board of Directors of the Company; or

 

(iii)                                consummation of a reorganization, merger, consolidation or share exchange or sale or other disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company (a “ Business Combination ”), in each case, unless, following such Business Combination, (i) all or substantially all of the individuals and entities who were the beneficial owners of the Outstanding Company Voting Securities immediately prior to such Business Combination beneficially own, directly or indirectly, more than 50% of the combined voting power of the then outstanding voting securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors of the corporation resulting from such Business Combination (including, without limitation, a corporation which as a result of such transaction owns the Company or all or substantially all of the Company’s assets either directly or through one or more subsidiaries) in substantially the same proportions as their ownership, immediately prior to such Business Combination of the Outstanding Company Voting Securities, and (ii) no Person (excluding any corporation resulting from such Business Combination or any employee benefit plan (or related trust) of the Company or such corporation resulting from such Business Combination) beneficially owns, directly or indirectly, 20% or more of the combined voting power of the then outstanding voting securities of such corporation except to the extent that such ownership existed prior to the Business Combination, and (iii) at least a majority of the members of the board of directors of the corporation resulting from such Business Combination were members of the Incumbent Board at the time of the execution of the initial agreement, or of the action of the Board, providing for such Business Combination; or

 

(iv)                               approval by the shareholders of the Company of a complete liquidation or dissolution of the Company.

 

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(d)                                  The separation payments and benefits described in Sections 1(a) and 1(b), above, are conditioned upon Executive executing a Separation and General Release Agreement at the time of termination, which releases and waives any and all claims against the Company and its affiliated persons and companies, and is acceptable to the Company.

 

(e)                                   In all other circumstances of separation, including if the Executive resigns, retires or is terminated for Cause, the Executive shall not be entitled to receive any separation payments or benefits.  For purposes of this Agreement, “ Cause ” shall mean the Executive’s:

 

(i)                                      commission of an act of fraud or dishonesty, the purpose or effect of which, in the CEO and/or Board’s sole determination, adversely affects the Company;

 

(ii)                                   conviction of a felony or a crime involving embezzlement, conversion of property or moral turpitude (whether by plea of nolo contendere or otherwise);

 

(iii)                                engaging in willful or reckless misconduct or gross negligence in connection with any property or activity of the Company, the purpose or effect of which, in the CEO and/or Board’s sole determination, adversely affects the Company;

 

(iv)                               material breach of any of the Executive’s obligations as an employee or  stockholder as set forth in the Company’s Information Security Policies and Code of Business Conduct, the Confidentiality Agreement or any other agreement in effect between the Company and the Executive; provided that, in the event such breach is susceptible to cure, the Executive has been given written notice by the CEO and/or Board of such breach and 30 days from such notice fails to cure the breach; or

 

(v)                                  failure or refusal to perform any material duty or responsibility under this Agreement or a determination that the Executive has breached his fiduciary obligations to the Company; provided that, in the event such failure, refusal or breach is susceptible to cure, the Executive has been given written notice by the CEO and/or Board of such failure, refusal or breach and 30 days from such notice fails to cure such failure, refusal or breach.

 

2.                                       Notice.   The Executive will send all communications to the Company in writing, to: Executive Vice President of Human Resources, Citi Trends, Inc., 104 Coleman Blvd., Savannah, Georgia 31408, Fax: (912) 443-3663.  All communications from the Company to the Executive relating to this Agreement shall be sent to the Executive in writing at his office and home address as reflected in the Company’s records.

 

3.                                       Amendment.   No provisions of this Agreement may be modified, waived, or discharged except by a written document signed by a duly authorized Company officer and the Executive.  A waiver of any conditions or provisions of this Agreement in a given instance shall not be deemed a waiver of such conditions or provisions at any other time in the future.

 

4.                                       Choice of Law and Venue.   The validity, interpretation, construction, and performance of this Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Georgia (excluding any that mandate the use of another jurisdiction’s laws).  Any action to enforce or for breach of this Agreement shall be brought exclusively in the state or federal courts of the County of Chatham, City of Savannah.

 

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5.                                       Successors.   This Agreement shall be binding upon, and shall inure to the benefit of, the Executive and Executive’s estate, but the Executive may not assign or pledge this Agreement or any rights arising under it, except to the extent permitted under the terms of the benefit plans in which Executive participates.  Without the Executive’s consent, the Company may assign this Agreement to any affiliate or to a successor to substantially all the business and assets of the Company.

 

6.                                       Counterparts.   This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which together shall constitute the same instrument.

 

7.                                       Entire Agreement.   This Agreement and the Confidentiality Agreement between the parties constitute the entire agreement between the parties and supersede any and all prior contracts, agreements, or understandings between the parties which may have been entered into by Company and the Executive relating to the subject matter hereof (including, without limitation, the Prior Severance Agreement), except for the Equity Agreements, which are to remain in full force and effect.  This Agreement may not be amended or modified in any manner except by an instrument in writing signed by both the Company and the Executive.  The failure of either party to enforce at any time any of the provisions of this Agreement shall in no way be construed to be a waiver of any such provision or the right of such party thereafter to enforce each and every such provision.  No waiver of any breach of this Agreement shall be held to be a waiver of any other or subsequent breach.  All remedies are cumulative, including the right of either party to seek equitable relief in addition to money damages.

 

8.                                       Employment At-Will Relationship.  Executive and the Company agree that nothing in this Agreement alters the at-will nature of Executive’s employment relationship with the Company.

 

9.                                       Internal Revenue Code Section 409A.   Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, to the extent that any amount or benefit that would constitute non-exempt “deferred compensation” for purposes of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code (“ Section 409A ”) would otherwise be payable or distributable hereunder by reason of a Participant’s termination of employment, such amount or benefit will not be payable or distributable to the Participant by reason of such circumstance unless the circumstances giving rise to such termination of employment meet any description or definition of “separation from service” in Section 409A of the Code and applicable regulations (without giving effect to any elective provisions that may be available under such definition).  For purposes of Section 409A, each installment payable under Section 1(a) and 1(b) of this Agreement shall be deemed to be a separate payment.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have set their hands as of the day and year set forth below.

 

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CITI TRENDS, INC.

 

 

 

By:

/s/ Bruce D. Smith

 

Name:

Bruce D. Smith

 

Title:

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

Dated:

3/30/2018

 

 

 

/s/ Brian Lattman

 

Employee Name

 

 

 

Dated:

3/30/2018

 

5


Exhibit 10.13

 

EMPLOYMENT NON-COMPETE, NON-SOLICIT AND CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT

 

This EMPLOYMENT NON-COMPETE, NON-SOLICIT AND CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT (“ Agreement ”) is entered into between Citi Trends, Inc., including its subsidiaries, affiliates, divisions, successors, and related entities (“ Company ”), and Christina Short (“ Employee ”), effective as of the date signed by Employee below.

 

This Agreement is intended to and shall supersede and replace that certain Employment Non-Compete, Non-Solicit and Confidentiality Agreement between the Company and Employee dated as of May 1, 2013 (the “ Prior Confidentiality Agreement ”).

 

For and in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements contained herein, including, but not limited to, Company agreeing to employ and/or continuing to employ Employee, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties agree:

 

1.                                       Employment; Scope of Services .  Company shall employ and/or continue to employ Employee, and Employee shall be employed and/or continue to be employed by Company, as Senior Vice President, General Merchandise Manager.  Employee shall use his/her best efforts and shall devote his/her full time, attention, knowledge and skills to the faithful performance of his/her duties and responsibilities as a Company employee.  Employee shall have such authority and such other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Board of Directors.  Employee shall comply with Company’s policies and procedures, shall conduct him/herself as an ethical business professional, and shall comply with federal, state and local laws.

 

2.                                       At-Will Employment .  Nothing in this Agreement alters the at-will employment relationship between Employee and Company or limits Company’s right to alter or modify Employee’s job title or job duties and responsibilities any time at Company’s discretion.  Employment with Company is “at-will” which means that either Employee or Company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without notice, with or without cause.  The date of Employee’s cessation of employment for any reason is the “ Separation Date .”

 

3.                                       Confidentiality .

 

(a)                                  Employee acknowledges and agrees that: (1) the retail sale of value-priced/off-price family apparel is an extremely competitive industry; (2) Company has an ongoing strategy for expansion of its business in the United States; (3) Company’s major competitors operate throughout the United States and some internationally; and (4) because of Employee’s position as Senior Vice President, General Merchandise Manager, he/she will have access to, knowledge of, and be entrusted with, highly sensitive and competitive Confidential Information and Trade Secrets (as defined in subsection (b) below) of Company, including without limitation information regarding sales margins, purchasing and pricing strategies, marketing strategies, vendors and suppliers, plans for expansion and placement of stores, and also specific information about Company’s districts and stores, such as staffing, budgets, profits and the financial success of individual districts and stores, which Company has developed and will continue to develop and the disclosure or use of which would cause Company great and irreparable harm.

 


 

(b)                                  As used herein, “ Confidential Information ” means and includes any and all Company data and information in any form whatsoever (tangible or intangible) which: (1) relates to the business of Company, irrespective of whether the data or information constitutes a “trade secret” (as defined below); (2) is disclosed to Employee or which Employee obtains or becomes aware of as a consequence of Employee’s relationship with Company; (3) has value to Company; and (4) is not generally known to Company’s competitors.  “Confidential Information” includes (but is not limited to) technical or sales data, formulas, patterns, compilations, programs, devices, methods, techniques, drawings, processes, financial data and statements, financial plans and strategies, product plans, sales or advertising information and plans, marketing information and plans, pricing information, the identity or lists of employees, vendors and suppliers of Company, and confidential or proprietary information of such employees, vendors and suppliers.  “ Trade Secret ” means any and all information, knowledge or data in any form whatsoever, tangible or intangible, that is considered a trade secret under applicable law. Employee acknowledges and agrees that all Confidential Information and Trade Secrets are and remain the sole and exclusive property of Company.

 

(c)                                   Employee agrees that he/she shall hold all Confidential Information and Trade Secrets in strictest confidence, and that he/she shall protect such Confidential Information and Trade Secrets from disclosure by or to others.  Employee further agrees that he/she shall not at any time (except as authorized by Company in connection with Employee’s duties and responsibilities as an employee): (1) disclose, publish, transfer, or communicate Confidential Information or Trade Secrets to any person or entity, other than authorized Company personnel; (2) use or reproduce Confidential Information or Trade Secrets for personal benefit or for any purpose or reason other than furthering the legitimate business interest of Company within the scope of Employee’s duties with Company; or (3) remove or transfer any Confidential Information or Trade Secrets from Company’s premises or systems (by any method or means) except for use in Company’s business and consistent with Employee’s duties with the Company.  The foregoing covenants and obligations are in addition to, and do not limit, any common law or statutory rights and/or protections afforded to Company.

 

(d)                                  Employee acknowledges that Company has provided or will provide Employee with Company property, including without limitation, employee handbooks, policy manuals, price lists, financial reports, and vendor and supplier information, among other items.  Upon the Separation Date, or upon the request of Company, Employee shall immediately deliver to Company all property belonging to Company, including without limitation, all Confidential Information, Trade Secrets, and any property related to Company, whether in electronic or other format, as well as any copies thereof, then in Employee’s custody, control, or possession.  Upon the Separation Date, Employee shall provide Company with a declaration certifying that all Confidential Information and any other Company property have been returned to Company, that Employee has not kept any copies of such items or distributed such items to any third party, and that Employee has otherwise complied with the terms of Section 3 of this Agreement.

 

(e)                                   Employee shall not be held criminally or civilly liable under any federal or state trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret (as defined in section 1839 of title 18, United States Code) that (A) is made (i) in confidence to a federal, state, or local government official, either directly or indirectly, or to an attorney; and (ii) solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law; or (B) is made in a complaint or other document filed

 

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in a lawsuit or other proceeding, if such filing is made under seal.  If Employee files a lawsuit for retaliation by the Company for reporting a suspected violation of law, Employee may disclose the trade secret to the attorney of Employee and use the trade secret information in the court proceeding if Employee (A) files any document containing the trade secret under seal; and (B) does not disclose the trade secret, except as permitted by court order.

 

4.                                       Covenant Not to Compete .  Employee acknowledges and agrees that Company has invested a great deal of time and money in developing relationships with its employees, customers, and “Merchandise Vendors” (as defined below).  Employee further acknowledges and agrees that in rendering services to Company, Employee has been, will be and will continue to be exposed to and learn much information about Company’s business, including valuable Confidential Information and Trade Secrets, the Company’s employees, and the Company’s “Merchandise Vendors,” to which Employee would not have access if not for Employee’s employment with Company and which it would be unfair to disclose to others, or to use to Company’s disadvantage.

 

Employee acknowledges and agrees that the restrictions contained in this Agreement are necessary and reasonable to protect Company’s legitimate business interests in its Trade Secrets, valuable Confidential Information and relationships and goodwill with its employees, customers, and “Merchandising Vendors.”  Employee further acknowledges that Employee’s skills, education and training qualify Employee to work and obtain employment which does not violate this Agreement and that the restrictions in this Agreement have been crafted as narrowly as reasonably possible to protect Company’s legitimate business interests in its Trade Secrets, valuable Confidential Information and relationships and goodwill with its employees, customers, and “Merchandising Vendors.”

 

In light of the foregoing, Employee agrees that he/she will not, at any point during his/her employment with Company, work for or engage or participate in any business, enterprise, or endeavor that in any way competes with any aspect of Company’s business or that otherwise conflicts with Company’s interests.  In addition, for a period of one (1) year following the Separation Date, and regardless of the reason for separation, Employee shall not, within any geographic area in which Company does business at any time during Employee’s employment with Company: (a) become employed by or work for a “Competitor” (as defined below) in any position or capacity involving duties and/or responsibilities which are the same as or substantially similar to any of the duties and/or responsibilities Employee had with and/or performed for Company; or (b) perform or provide any services which are the same as or substantially similar to any of the services which Employee performed or provided for the Company, for or on behalf of any Competitor.  For purposes of this Section 4, the term “ Competitor ” shall mean only the following businesses, commonly known as: Cato, TJX (including without limitation TJMAXX and Marshalls), Burlington Stores, Gabe’s/Rugged Wearhouse, and Ross Stores.

 

5.                                       Covenant Not to Solicit .   During Employee’s employment with Company, and for a period of eighteen (18) months following the Separation Date, and regardless of the reason for separation, Employee agrees not to solicit any “Merchandise Vendors” (as defined below) for the purpose of obtaining merchandise and/or inventory for or on behalf of any “Competitor” (as defined in Section 4 of this Agreement).  As used herein, “ Merchandise Vendors ” means and

 

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includes any person or entity who/that has been a vendor or supplier of merchandise and/or inventory to Company during the eighteen (18) months immediately preceding the Separation Date or to whom/which Company is actively soliciting for the provision of merchandise and/or inventory, and with whom/which Employee had “material contact.”  For purposes of this agreement, “ material contact ” means contact between Employee and an existing or prospective Merchandise Vendor: (a) with whom Employee dealt on behalf of Company within two years prior to the date of Employee’s termination; (b) whose dealings with Company were coordinated or supervised by Employee within two years prior to the date of Employee’s termination; (c) about whom Employee obtained Confidential Information in the ordinary course of business as a result of Employee’s association with Company within two years prior to the date of Employee’s termination; or, (d) who provides merchandise and/or inventory to Company, the provision of which results or resulted in compensation, commissions, or earnings for Employee within two years prior to the date of Employee’s termination.

 

Employee specifically acknowledges and agrees that, as Senior Vice President, General Merchandise Manager, his/her duties include, without limitation, establishing purchasing and pricing strategies and policies, managing sales margins, involvement in establishing and maintaining vendor relationships, and having contact with and confidential and/or proprietary information regarding Merchandise Vendors.

 

6.                                       Covenant Not to Recruit Personnel .  During Employee’s employment with Company, and for a period of two (2) years following the Separation Date, and regardless of the reason for separation, Employee will not: (a) recruit or solicit to hire or assist others in recruiting or soliciting to hire, any employee or independent contractor of Company; or (b) cause or assist others in causing any employee or independent contractor of Company to terminate his/her relationship with Company.

 

7.                                       Severability .  If any provision of this Agreement is held invalid, illegal, or otherwise unenforceable, in whole or in part, the remaining provisions, and any partially enforceable provisions to the extent enforceable, shall be binding and remain in full force and effect.  Further, each particular prohibition or restriction set forth in any Section of this Agreement shall be deemed a severable unit, and if any court of competent jurisdiction determines that any portion of such prohibition or restriction is against the policy of the law in any respect, but such restraint, considered as a whole, is not so clearly unreasonable and overreaching in its terms as to be unconscionable, the court shall enforce so much of such restraint as is determined to be reasonably necessary to protect the legitimate interests of Company.  Employee and Company expressly agree that, should any court of competent jurisdiction find or determine that any of the covenants contained herein are overly-broad or otherwise unenforceable, the court may “blue-pencil,” modify, and/or reform any such covenant (in whole or in part) so as to cure the over-breadth or to otherwise render the covenant enforceable.

 

8.                                       Survival of Covenants .  All rights and covenants contained in Sections 3, 4, 5, and 6 of this Agreement, and all remedies relating thereto, shall survive the termination of this Agreement for any reason.

 

9.                                       Binding Effect .  The covenants, terms, and provisions set forth in this Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by Company and its successors, assigns, and

 

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successors-in-interest, including, without limitation, any corporation, partnership, or other entity with which Company may be merged or by which it may be acquired.  Employee may not assign Employee’s rights or obligations under this Agreement to any other party.

 

10.                                Governing Law .  All matters affecting this Agreement, including the validity thereof, are to be subject to, and interpreted and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of Georgia applicable to contracts executed in and to be performed in that State.

 

11.                                No Interference with Rights .  Employee understands, agrees and acknowledges that nothing contained in this Agreement will prevent Employee from filing a charge or complaint with, reporting possible violations of any law or regulation, making disclosures to, and/or participating in any investigation or proceeding conducted by, the National Labor Relations Board, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and/or any governmental authority charged with the enforcement of any laws.

 

12.                                Acknowledgment of Reasonableness/Remedies/Enforcement .

 

(a)                                  Employee acknowledges that: (1) Company has valid interests to protect pursuant to Sections 3, 4, 5, and 6 of this Agreement; (2) the breach of the provisions of Sections 3, 4, 5, or 6 of this Agreement would result in irreparable injury and permanent damage to Company; and (3) such restrictions are reasonable and necessary to protect the interests of Company, are critical to the success of Company’s business, and do not cause undue hardship on Employee.

 

(b)                                  Employee agrees that determining damages in the event of a breach of Sections 3, 4, 5, or 6 by Employee would be difficult and that money damages alone would be an inadequate remedy for the injuries and damages which would be suffered by Company from such breach.  Therefore, Employee agrees that Company shall be entitled (in addition to any other remedies it may have under this Agreement, at law, or otherwise) to immediate injunctive and other equitable relief to prevent or curtail any such breach or threatened breach by Employee.  Employee and Company waive any requirement that a bond or any other security be posted.  Nothing in this Agreement shall prohibit Company from seeking or recovering any legal or monetary damages to which it may be entitled if Employee breaches any provision in this Agreement.

 

(c)                                   In the event Employee breaches this Agreement, Employee shall be liable to Company for all costs of enforcement, including attorneys’ fees and court costs, in addition to all other damages and redress available to Company in equity or in law.

 

13.                                Miscellaneous .  This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties and supersedes any and all prior contracts, agreements, or understandings between the parties which may have been entered into by Company and Employee relating to the subject matter hereof (including, without limitation, the Prior Confidentiality Agreement), except for any severance agreements or certain restricted stock award and stock option agreements, which are to remain in full force and effect.  This Agreement may not be amended or modified in any manner except by an instrument in writing signed by both Company and Employee.  The failure of either party to enforce at any time any of the provisions of this Agreement shall in no way be construed to be a waiver of any such provision or the right of such party thereafter to enforce each and every such

 

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provision.  No waiver of any breach of this Agreement shall be held to be a waiver of any other or subsequent breach.  All remedies are cumulative, including the right of either party to seek equitable relief in addition to money damages.

 

EMPLOYEE ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT HE/SHE HAS CAREFULLY READ THIS AGREEMENT AND KNOWS AND UNDERSTANDS ITS CONTENTS, THAT HE/SHE ENTERS INTO THIS AGREEMENT KNOWINGLY AND VOLUNTARILY, AND THAT HE/SHE INDICATES HIS/HER CONSENT BY SIGNING THIS FINAL PAGE.

 

(SIGNATURES TO FOLLOW ON NEXT PAGE)

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement under seal as of the day and year set forth below.

 

Citi Trends, Inc.

 

/s/ Christina Short

 

 

Employee Signature

 

 

 

By:

 

/s/ Bruce D. Smith

 

Date:

Bruce D. Smith

 

4/6/2018

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

 

 

Date:

 

4/6/2018

 

Employee Residence Address:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7


Exhibit 10.14

 

SEVERANCE AGREEMENT

 

This SEVERANCE AGREEMENT (“ Agreement ”) is entered into between Citi Trends, Inc., a Delaware corporation, including its subsidiaries, affiliates, divisions, successors, and related entities (the “ Company ”), and Christina Short, an individual (the “ Executive ”), effective as of the date signed by Executive below.

 

WHEREAS, this Agreement is intended to and shall supersede and replace that certain Severance Agreement between the Company and Employee dated as of May 1, 2013 (the “ Prior Severance Agreement ”).

 

WHEREAS, the Company and the Executive are also parties to an Employment Non-Compete, Non-Solicit and Confidentiality Agreement (the “ Confidentiality Agreement ”) and certain restricted stock award and stock option agreements (collectively, the “ Equity Agreements ”), which are to remain in full force and effect;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual agreements set forth herein, the parties agree as follows:

 

1.                                       Termination Payments and Benefits.   Regardless of the circumstances of the Executive’s termination, Executive shall be entitled to payment when due of any earned and unpaid base salary, expense reimbursements and vacation days accrued prior to the termination of Executive’s employment, and other unpaid vested amounts or benefits under Company retirement and health benefit plans, and, as applicable, under Equity Agreements in accordance with their terms, and to no other compensation or benefits.

 

(a)                                  If (i) the Company terminates the Executive’s employment without Cause, or (ii) the Executive terminates employment with the Company within twelve (12) months following the occurrence of a Change in Control, provided that within such period, (a) either Executive’s job duties have been materially and permanently diminished or the Executive’s compensation has been materially decreased and (b) Executive provides written notice to the Company within ninety (90) days of the occurrence of an aforementioned event and the Company fails to cure the event within thirty (30) days following the Company’s receipt of the Executive’s written notice, then, in the case of either (i) or (ii) above, the Company will provide the Executive with separation payments of twelve (12) months base salary at Executive’s base salary rate at the time of Executive’s termination or if greater, the Executive’s base rate in effect on the Change of Control Date; to be paid in twenty-six (26) regular bi-weekly pay periods beginning on the first pay period occurring after the sixtieth (60th) day following the Executive’s termination, provided the Executive executes and does not subsequently revoke the Separation and General Release Agreement referenced below within such sixty (60) day period.

 

(b)                                  For a period of twelve (12) months from the Executive’s separation from service, the Company will pay to the Executive an amount, minus all applicable taxes and withholdings, equal to the full monthly cost (including any portion of the cost previously paid by the employee) to provide the same level of group health benefits maintained by Executive as of Executive’s separation from service, provided the Executive executes and does not subsequently revoke the Separation and General Release Agreement referenced below within such sixty (60) day period.

 


 

(c)                                   For purposes of this Agreement, “ Change in Control ” shall mean the occurrence of any one of the following events:

 

(i)                                      the acquisition by any individual, entity or group (within the meaning of Section 13(d)(3) or 14(d)(2) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “ 1934 Act ”)) (a “ Person ”) of beneficial ownership (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 promulgated under the 1934 Act) of 50% or more of the combined voting power of the then outstanding voting securities of the Company entitled to vote generally in the election of directors (the “ Outstanding Company Voting Securities ”); provided, however, that for purposes of this subsection (1), the following acquisitions shall not constitute a Change of Control: (i) any acquisition by a Person who is on the date of this Agreement the beneficial owner of 50% or more of the Outstanding Company Voting Securities, (ii) any acquisition directly from the Company, (iii) any acquisition by the Company, (iv) any acquisition by any employee benefit plan (or related trust) sponsored or maintained by the Company or any corporation controlled by the Company, or (v) any acquisition by any corporation pursuant to a transaction which complies with clauses (i), (ii) and (iii) of subsection (3) of this definition; or

 

(ii)                                   individuals who, as of the date of this Agreement, constitute the Board of Directors of the Company (the “ Incumbent Board ”) cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority of the Board of Directors of the Company; provided, however, that any individual becoming a director subsequent to the Effective Date whose election, or nomination for election by the Company’s shareholders, was approved by a vote of at least a majority of the directors then comprising the Incumbent Board shall be considered as though such individual were a member of the Incumbent Board, but excluding, for this purpose, any such individual whose initial assumption of office occurs as a result of an actual or threatened election contest with respect to the election or removal of directors or other actual or threatened solicitation of proxies or consents by or on behalf of a Person other than the Board of Directors of the Company; or

 

(iii)                                consummation of a reorganization, merger, consolidation or share exchange or sale or other disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company (a “ Business Combination ”), in each case, unless, following such Business Combination, (i) all or substantially all of the individuals and entities who were the beneficial owners of the Outstanding Company Voting Securities immediately prior to such Business Combination beneficially own, directly or indirectly, more than 50% of the combined voting power of the then outstanding voting securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors of the corporation resulting from such Business Combination (including, without limitation, a corporation which as a result of such transaction owns the Company or all or substantially all of the Company’s assets either directly or through one or more subsidiaries) in substantially the same proportions as their ownership, immediately prior to such Business Combination of the Outstanding Company Voting Securities, and (ii) no Person (excluding any corporation resulting from such Business Combination or any employee benefit plan (or related trust) of the Company or such corporation resulting from such Business Combination) beneficially owns, directly or indirectly, 20% or more of the combined voting power of the then outstanding voting securities of such corporation except to the extent that such ownership existed prior to the Business Combination, and (iii) at least a majority of the members of the board of directors of the corporation resulting from such Business Combination were members of the Incumbent Board at the time of the execution of the initial agreement, or of the action of the Board, providing for such Business Combination; or

 

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(iv)                               approval by the shareholders of the Company of a complete liquidation or dissolution of the Company.

 

(d)                                  The separation payments and benefits described in Sections 1(a) and 1(b), above, are conditioned upon Executive executing a Separation and General Release Agreement at the time of termination, which releases and waives any and all claims against the Company and its affiliated persons and companies, and is acceptable to the Company.

 

(e)                                   In all other circumstances of separation, including if the Executive resigns, retires or is terminated for Cause, the Executive shall not be entitled to receive any separation payments or benefits.  For purposes of this Agreement, “ Cause ” shall mean the Executive’s:

 

(i)                                      commission of an act of fraud or dishonesty, the purpose or effect of which, in the CEO and/or Board’s sole determination, adversely affects the Company;

 

(ii)                                   conviction of a felony or a crime involving embezzlement, conversion of property or moral turpitude (whether by plea of nolo contendere or otherwise);

 

(iii)                                engaging in willful or reckless misconduct or gross negligence in connection with any property or activity of the Company, the purpose or effect of which, in the CEO and/or Board’s sole determination, adversely affects the Company;

 

(iv)                               material breach of any of the Executive’s obligations as an employee or  stockholder as set forth in the Company’s Information Security Policies and Code of Business Conduct, the Confidentiality Agreement or any other agreement in effect between the Company and the Executive; provided that, in the event such breach is susceptible to cure, the Executive has been given written notice by the CEO and/or Board of such breach and 30 days from such notice fails to cure the breach; or

 

(v)                                  failure or refusal to perform any material duty or responsibility under this Agreement or a determination that the Executive has breached his fiduciary obligations to the Company; provided that, in the event such failure, refusal or breach is susceptible to cure, the Executive has been given written notice by the CEO and/or Board of such failure, refusal or breach and 30 days from such notice fails to cure such failure, refusal or breach.

 

2.                                       Notice.   The Executive will send all communications to the Company in writing, to: Executive Vice President of Human Resources, Citi Trends, Inc., 104 Coleman Blvd., Savannah, Georgia 31408, Fax: (912) 443-3663.  All communications from the Company to the Executive relating to this Agreement shall be sent to the Executive in writing at his office and home address as reflected in the Company’s records.

 

3.                                       Amendment.   No provisions of this Agreement may be modified, waived, or discharged except by a written document signed by a duly authorized Company officer and the Executive.  A waiver of any conditions or provisions of this Agreement in a given instance shall not be deemed a waiver of such conditions or provisions at any other time in the future.

 

4.                                       Choice of Law and Venue.   The validity, interpretation, construction, and performance of this Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Georgia (excluding any that mandate

 

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the use of another jurisdiction’s laws).  Any action to enforce or for breach of this Agreement shall be brought exclusively in the state or federal courts of the County of Chatham, City of Savannah.

 

5.                                       Successors.   This Agreement shall be binding upon, and shall inure to the benefit of, the Executive and Executive’s estate, but the Executive may not assign or pledge this Agreement or any rights arising under it, except to the extent permitted under the terms of the benefit plans in which Executive participates.  Without the Executive’s consent, the Company may assign this Agreement to any affiliate or to a successor to substantially all the business and assets of the Company.

 

6.                                       Counterparts.   This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which together shall constitute the same instrument.

 

7.                                       Entire Agreement.   This Agreement and the Confidentiality Agreement between the parties constitute the entire agreement between the parties and supersede any and all prior contracts, agreements, or understandings between the parties which may have been entered into by Company and the Executive relating to the subject matter hereof (including, without limitation, the Prior Severance Agreement), except for the Equity Agreements, which are to remain in full force and effect.  This Agreement may not be amended or modified in any manner except by an instrument in writing signed by both the Company and the Executive.  The failure of either party to enforce at any time any of the provisions of this Agreement shall in no way be construed to be a waiver of any such provision or the right of such party thereafter to enforce each and every such provision.  No waiver of any breach of this Agreement shall be held to be a waiver of any other or subsequent breach.  All remedies are cumulative, including the right of either party to seek equitable relief in addition to money damages.

 

8.                                       Employment At-Will Relationship.  Executive and the Company agree that nothing in this Agreement alters the at-will nature of Executive’s employment relationship with the Company.

 

9.                                       Internal Revenue Code Section 409A.   Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, to the extent that any amount or benefit that would constitute non-exempt “deferred compensation” for purposes of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code (“ Section 409A ”) would otherwise be payable or distributable hereunder by reason of a Participant’s termination of employment, such amount or benefit will not be payable or distributable to the Participant by reason of such circumstance unless the circumstances giving rise to such termination of employment meet any description or definition of “separation from service” in Section 409A of the Code and applicable regulations (without giving effect to any elective provisions that may be available under such definition).  For purposes of Section 409A, each installment payable under Section 1(a) and 1(b) of this Agreement shall be deemed to be a separate payment.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have set their hands as of the day and year set forth below.

 

4


 

 

CITI TRENDS, INC.

 

 

 

 

By:

/s/ Bruch D. Smith

 

Name:

Bruce D. Smith

 

Title:

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

 

Dated:

4/6/2018

 

 

 

 

/s/ Christina Short

 

Employee Name

 

 

 

 

Dated:

4/6/2018

 

5


Exhibit 31.3

 

CERTIFICATION

 

I, Bruce D. Smith, certify that:

 

1.               I have reviewed this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q/A, Amendment No. 1, for the period ended May 5, 2018 of Citi Trends, Inc.; and

 

2.               Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report.

 

Date: March 15, 2019

 

 

 

/s/ Bruce D. Smith

 

Bruce D. Smith

 

President and Chief Executive Officer

 

(Principal Executive Officer)

 

 


Exhibit 31.4

 

CERTIFICATION

 

I, Stuart C. Clifford, certify that:

 

1.               I have reviewed this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q/A, Amendment No. 1, for the period ended May 5, 2018 of Citi Trends, Inc.; and

 

2.               Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report.

 

Date: March 15, 2019

 

 

 

/s/ Stuart C. Clifford

 

Stuart C. Clifford

 

Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

 

(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)