UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 8-K

 

 

CURRENT REPORT

PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE

SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Date of report (Date of earliest event reported): May 22, 2008

 

 

LAKELAND BANCORP, INC.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)

 

 

 

New Jersey   33-27312   22-2953275

(State or Other Jurisdiction

of Incorporation)

  (Commission File Number)  

(IRS Employer

Identification No.)

 

250 Oak Ridge Road, Oak Ridge, New Jersey   07438
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code (973) 697-2000

 

 

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions (see General Instruction A.2. below):

 

¨ Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)

 

¨ Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)

 

¨ Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))

 

¨ Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))

 

 

 


Item 5.02 Departure of Directors or Certain Officers; Election of Directors; Appointment of Certain Officers; Compensatory Arrangements of Certain Officers.

(e)

On May 22, 2008, Lakeland Bancorp, Inc. (“Lakeland Bancorp” or the “Company”), Lakeland Bank (the “Bank”) and Thomas J. Shara, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and the Bank, executed an Employment Agreement (the “Employment Agreement”) and a Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Agreement (the “SERP”). Both the Employment Agreement and the SERP are effective as of April 2, 2008, the date Mr. Shara began serving as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and the Bank. Copies of the Employment Agreement and the SERP are being filed with this Current Report on Form 8-K and are incorporated herein by reference.

The Employment Agreement provides that Mr. Shara will be employed as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and the Bank for a term commencing on April 2, 2008 (the “ Effective Date ”) and expiring on April 1, 2011 (the “ Initial Term ”). The Initial Term will automatically be extended for an additional one year period on each anniversary date of the Effective Date, unless on or before each such anniversary date either party provides written notice to the other of its (or his) intent not to extend the then current term, provided, however, that on and after the 15th anniversary of the Effective Date, if Mr. Shara remains employed, his employment will be on an at-will basis. The Initial Term and any renewal period through the 15th anniversary of the Effective Date are referred to as the “ Term ”.

The Employment Agreement further provides that Mr. Shara will be nominated for election (i) as a member of the Bank’s Board of Directors at each annual meeting of the sole shareholder of the Bank occurring during the Term and (ii) as a member of the Company’s Board of Directors at each annual meeting of shareholders of the Company at which Mr. Shara’s term as a director of the Company expires occurring during the Term. Mr. Shara initially was appointed to the Bank Board and the Company Board on April 2, 2008, and was nominated to stand for election at Lakeland Bancorp’s 2008 annual meeting of shareholders for a term of two years. Mr. Shara was so elected at the 2008 annual meeting.

The Employment Agreement provides that Mr. Shara will receive a base salary of not less than $400,000 per year. He will participate in the executive bonus program as approved annually by the Company’s Board. Upon joining the Company on April 2, 2008, Mr. Shara received a restricted stock award of 60,000 shares. A total of 25% of such restricted shares will vest on each of December 1, 2009, December 1, 2010, December 1, 2011 and December 1, 2012, provided that Mr. Shara is an employee of the Company or the Bank on the respective vesting date. The Employment Agreement also provides that Mr. Shara will be entitled to participate in all employee benefit plans or programs, including without limitation the 401(k) Plan and Profit Sharing Plan, and to receive all benefits and perquisites, including without limitation an automobile, which are approved by the Boards of the Company and the Bank and are generally made available to executive officers of the Company, to the extent permissible under the general terms and provisions of such plans or programs.

The Employment Agreement provides that if Mr. Shara’s employment is terminated during the Term by the Company without Cause (as defined) or Mr. Shara resigns for Good Reason (as defined), Mr. Shara will receive a severance payment equal to equal to 36 months of his annual

 

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base salary at the rate in effect as of the termination date. In addition, all of Mr. Shara’s restricted shares and stock options (to the extent not already vested) will become fully vested, and he will be permitted to exercise any such option for the period specified in the Company’s equity compensation plan as in effect at such time. He will also be entitled to the continuation of certain medical benefits. However, if within 90 days following a Change in Control (as defined), Mr. Shara’s employment is terminated without Cause or he resigns for Good Reason, then he will receive a severance payment equal to three times the sum of (a) an amount equal to his annual base salary at the rate in effect as of the termination date, plus (b) an amount equal to the highest annual bonus paid to Mr. Shara during the last three years prior to the his termination date.

The Employment Agreement provides that in the event it is determined that any payment or benefit made or provided by the Company or the Bank pursuant to the terms of the Employment Agreement or otherwise would be subject to the excise tax (the “Excise Tax”) imposed by Section 4999 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, then Mr. Shara will be entitled to receive an additional payment from the Company (a “Gross-Up Payment”) such that the net amount received by Mr. Shara after deduction of such Excise Tax and any federal, state and local income tax, penalties, interest and Excise Tax upon the Gross-Up Payment will be equal to the payments otherwise payable to him under the terms of the Employment Agreement. Mr. Shara also agrees in the Employment Agreement not to compete with the Bank’s business for a 12 month period following termination of employment in a geographic area equal to 20 miles from any of the Bank’s branches at the time of Mr. Shara’s termination of employment.

The SERP provides that Mr. Shara will receive a normal retirement benefit of $150,000 per year for 15 years upon termination of his employment after the normal retirement age of 65. The benefit will be paid in monthly payments of $12,500 each. The SERP further provides that if, prior to a Change in Control Mr. Shara resigns his employment with the Company or the Bank for Good Reason, his employment with the Company or the Bank terminates due to disability, or his employment with the Company or the Bank is terminated by the Company or the Bank other than for Cause, he will receive the same benefit of $150,000 per year for 15 years, payable in monthly payments of $12,500 each, commencing with the month following Mr. Shara’s 65th birthday. If Mr. Shara is employed by the Company or the Bank at the time of a Change in Control, he will receive the same benefit, beginning with the month following his 65th birthday. If Mr. Shara should die while employed, his beneficiary will receive the same monthly payment described above for the period specified, except that such payments will commence within 60 days of receipt of a death certificate. If Mr. Shara should die after the benefit payments have commenced but before receiving all such payments, the Company will pay the remaining benefits to his beneficiary at the same time and in the same amounts they would have been paid to Mr. Shara had he survived. The SERP provides that Mr. Shara is not entitled to any benefit under the SERP if (i) the Company terminates his employment for Cause, or (ii) he resigns his employment with the Company other than for Good Reason prior to the earlier of attaining age 65 or a Change in Control. Amounts payable under the SERP are subject to the same gross up provisions as are applicable under the Employment Agreement. Amounts payable under both the Employment Agreement and the SERP may be delayed in order to comply with Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

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Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits.

(d) Exhibits

The following exhibits are attached to this Current Report on Form 8-K:

 

Exhibit No.

 

Description

10.1   Employment Agreement, dated as of April 2, 2008, by and between Lakeland Bancorp, Inc., Lakeland Bank and Thomas J. Shara
10.2   Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Agreement, made effective as of April 2, 2008, by and between Lakeland Bancorp, Inc., Lakeland Bank and Thomas J. Shara

 

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SIGNATURE

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 hereunto duly authorized.

 

 

LAKELAND BANCORP, INC.
By:  

/s/ Thomas J. Shara

Name:   Thomas J. Shara
Title:   President and Chief Executive Officer

Dated: May 28, 2008

 

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Exhibit Index

The following exhibits are attached to this Current Report on Form 8-K:

 

Exhibit No.

 

Description

10.1   Employment Agreement, dated as of April 2, 2008, by and between Lakeland Bancorp, Inc., Lakeland Bank and Thomas J. Shara
10.2   Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Agreement, made effective as of April 2, 2008, by and between Lakeland Bancorp, Inc., Lakeland Bank and Thomas J. Shara

 

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Exhibit 10.1

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (“ Agreement ”), dated as of April 2, 2008, by and between Lakeland Bancorp, Inc., a New Jersey corporation (“Lakeland Bancorp”), Lakeland Bank, a New Jersey state chartered bank (“Lakeland Bank” and, collectively with Lakeland Bancorp, the “ Employer ”) and Thomas J. Shara, an individual residing at 92 Frost Court, Wyckoff, New Jersey 07481 (the “ Executive ”).

RECITAL

WHEREAS , the Employer and the Executive desire to set forth the terms pursuant to which the Executive will be employed by the Employer as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Lakeland Bancorp and Lakeland Bank.

NOW, THEREFORE , the Employer and the Executive hereby agree as follows:

Section 1. Employment . The Employer shall employ the Executive, and the Executive agrees to be employed by the Employer, upon the terms and conditions hereinafter provided, for a term commencing on April 2, 2008 (the “ Effective Date ”) and expiring on April 1, 2011 (the “ Initial Term ”). The Initial Term shall be automatically extended for an additional one (1) year period on each anniversary date of the Effective Date, unless on or before each such anniversary date either party provides written notice to the other of its (or his) intent not to extend the then current term, provided, however, that on and after the fifteenth (15th) anniversary of the Effective Date, if the Executive remains employed by the Employer, his employment shall be on an at-will basis. By way of example, if either party does not want the Initial Term to extend beyond April 1, 2011, then such party must provide written notice to the other on or before April 2, 2009. Further by way of example, if the term of this Agreement has been extended to April 1, 2012, and either party does not want the term to be extended beyond such date, then such party must provide written notice to the other on or before April 2, 2010. The Initial Term and any renewal period hereunder through the fifteenth (15th) anniversary of the Effective Date are referred to herein as the “ Term ”.

(b) The Executive hereby represents and warrants that the Executive has the legal capacity to execute and perform this Agreement, that this Agreement is a valid and binding agreement enforceable against the Executive according to its terms, and that the execution and performance of this Agreement by the Executive does not violate the terms of any existing agreement or understanding to which the Executive is a party.

Section 2. Duties . The Executive shall report to the respective Boards of Directors of Lakeland Bancorp and Lakeland Bank (each, a “ Board ” and collectively, the “ Boards ”) and have the title of President and Chief Executive Officer of Lakeland Bancorp and Lakeland Bank. The Executive shall be nominated for election (i) as a member of the Lakeland Bank Board at each annual meeting of the sole shareholder of Lakeland Bank occurring during the Term and (ii) as a member of the Lakeland Bancorp Board at each annual meeting of shareholders of Lakeland Bancorp at which the Executive’s term as a director of Lakeland Bancorp expires


occurring during the Term. The Executive initially shall be appointed to the Lakeland Bank Board and the Lakeland Bancorp Board on April 2, 2008, and shall be nominated to stand for election at Lakeland Bancorp’s 2008 annual meeting of shareholders for a term of two years. The Executive shall have such duties as are consistent with the Executive’s experience, expertise and position as President and Chief Executive Officer, and as shall be assigned to the Executive from time to time by the respective Boards. During the Term, except for vacation in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement and the Employer’s policies or due to illness or incapacity, the Executive shall devote all of the Executive’s business time, attention, skill and efforts exclusively to the business and affairs of the Employer and its affiliates. Notwithstanding the foregoing, to the extent that the following does not impair the Executive’s ability to perform the Executive’s duties pursuant to this Agreement, nor violate the terms of the provisions set forth in Section 6 hereof, the Executive may (1) make personal investments in such form or manner as will neither require the Executive’s services in the operation or affairs of the business in which such investments are made, (2) serve on the board of directors of one or more charitable organizations and (3) serve on the board of directors of other companies with the advance written consent of the Boards.

Section 3. Compensation . For all services rendered by the Executive in any capacity required hereunder during the Term, including, without limitation, services as an officer, director, or member of any committee of the Employer or any parent, subsidiary, affiliate or division thereof, the Executive shall be compensated as follows:

(a) The Employer shall pay the Executive an initial fixed salary (“ Base Salary ”) at a rate of $400,000 per annum from the Effective Date. Such Base Salary shall be subject to periodic review and may be increased by the Employer in its discretion. The term “ Base Salary ” as used in this Agreement shall refer to the Base Salary as it may be increased from time to time. The Base Salary shall be payable in accordance with the customary payroll practices of the Employer.

(b) The Executive shall participate in the executive bonus program as approved annually by the Lakeland Bancorp Board.

(c) Upon joining the Employer on April 2, 2008, the Executive shall be granted 60,000 restricted shares (the “ Restricted Shares ”) of Lakeland Bancorp’s common stock (the “ Common Stock ”) pursuant to the Lakeland Bancorp, Inc. Amended and Restated 2000 Equity Compensation Program (the “ Plan ”). A total of 25% of such Restricted Shares shall vest on each of December 1, 2009, December 1, 2010, December 1, 2011 and December 1, 2012, provided that the Executive is an employee of the Employer on the respective vesting date. Except as set forth in Section 5, any Restricted Shares that have not vested as of the date of the Executive’s termination of employment shall be forfeited. Complete terms of the Restricted Shares shall be set forth in a restricted stock agreement prepared by the Employer.

(d) Except as expressly modified by this Agreement, the Executive shall be entitled to participate in all employee benefit plans or programs, including without limitation the Employer’s 401(k) Plan and Profit Sharing Plan, and to receive all benefits and perquisites, including without limitation an automobile, which are approved by the respective Boards and are generally made available by the Employer to executive officers of the Employer, to the extent

 

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permissible under the general terms and provisions of such plans or programs and in accordance with the provisions thereof. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing in this Agreement shall require any particular plan or program to be continued nor preclude the amendment or termination of any such plan or program, provided that such amendment or termination is applicable generally to the executive officers of the Employer.

(e) The Executive shall be entitled to five (5) weeks vacation per calendar year during the Term.

(f) The Executive and the Employer are entering into a Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Agreement (“SERP”) on the date hereof which will provide the Executive, and his spouse, with the benefits described therein.

Section 4. Business Expenses . The Employer shall pay or reimburse the Executive for all necessary expenses reasonably incurred by the Executive in connection with the performance of the Executive’s duties and obligations under this Agreement, subject to the Executive’s presentation of appropriate vouchers in accordance with such expense account policies and approval procedures as the Employer may from time to time reasonably establish for employees (including but not limited to prior approval of extraordinary expenses); provided, however, that in no event shall a reimbursement be made later than December 31 of the year following the year in which the expense was incurred.

Section 5. Effect of Termination of Employment .

(a) Termination Generally . Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, this Agreement may be terminated by either the Employer or the Executive, at any time, without “Cause” or “Good Reason” (each as defined below); provided , however , that the party desirous of terminating this Agreement shall give the other party at least ninety (90) days’ prior written notice of such termination. The Employer may, in lieu of the notice period, pay the Executive’s Base Salary for the notice period, provided, however, that the Employer shall continue the Executive’s e-mail, voice mail and secretarial support during such ninety (90) day period. The date specified in any notice of termination as the Executive’s final day of employment shall be referred to herein as the “ Termination Date .”

(b) Accrued Obligations . Except as set forth in this Section 5, in the event that Executive’s employment hereunder is terminated for any reason, then Executive shall be entitled to no compensation or other benefits of any kind whatsoever, other than (i) payment of Executive’s unpaid Base Salary under Section 3(a) and unpaid bonus under Section 3(b) for the preceding year in accordance with Employer’s standard payroll practices, (ii) payment of any unpaid accrued vacation or business expenses, (iii) payment of any other unpaid amounts due and owing under any benefit, fringe or equity plans, and (iv) the opportunity to continue health coverage under the Employer’s group health plan in accordance with “COBRA” (“ COBRA Coverage ”) (the foregoing payments and benefits are collectively referred to herein as “ Accrued Obligations ”).

 

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(c) Termination Without Cause, Resignation for Good Reason; Termination Following a Change in Control .

(1) In the event that the Employer terminates Executive’s employment hereunder during the Term without “Cause” (defined below) or the Executive resigns during the Term for “Good Reason” (defined below), then the Executive shall be entitled to no compensation or other benefits of any kind whatsoever, other than: (i) the Accrued Obligations, (ii) the No Change in Control Severance Amount (defined below) payable over a period of twelve (12) months in accordance with the Employer’s normal payroll practices, and (iii) all of the Executive’s Restricted Shares and stock options (to the extent not already vested) shall become fully vested, and the Executive shall be permitted to exercise any such option for the period specified in the Plan as in effect at such time. In addition, the Executive shall be entitled to purchase group health insurance under the Employer’s policy as then in effect, at the Employer’s group rates, for a period of three (3) years after the Executive’s termination of employment, provided that the Employer’s then group health insurance carrier permits such purchase under the then applicable plan. The first eighteen (18) months of any such coverage shall be under COBRA.

(2) Notwithstanding the foregoing, if, within ninety (90) days following a “Change in Control” (defined below), the Executive’s employment is terminated by the Employer without Cause or the Executive resigns for Good Reason, then the Executive shall receive (i) the Accrued Obligations, (ii) the Change in Control Severance Amount (defined below) payable within thirty (30) days following the Executive’s Termination Date, subject to Section 20 hereof and (iii) all of the Executive’s Restricted Shares and stock options (to the extent not already vested) shall become fully vested, and the Executive shall be permitted to exercise any such option for the period specified in the Plan as in effect at such time. In addition, the Executive shall be entitled to purchase group health insurance under the Employer’s policy as then in effect, at the Employer’s group rates, for a period of three (3) years after the Executive’s termination of employment, provided that the Employer’s then group health insurance carrier permits such purchase under the then applicable plan. The first eighteen (18) months of any such coverage shall be under COBRA.

(3) Notwithstanding anything contained in this Agreement to the contrary, in the event it shall be determined that any payment or benefit made or provided by the Employer or its affiliated companies to or for the benefit of the Executive pursuant to the terms of this Agreement or otherwise (determined without regard to any additional payment required under this Section 5(c)(3)) (the “Total Payments”) would be subject to the excise tax (the “Excise Tax”) imposed by Section 4999 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), then the Executive shall be entitled to receive an additional payment from the Employer (a “Gross-Up Payment”) such that the net amount received by the Executive after deduction of such Excise Tax and any federal, state and local income tax, penalties, interest and Excise Tax upon the Gross-Up Payment provided by this Section 5(c)(3) (including FICA and FUTA taxes), shall be equal to the Total Payments. Such Gross-Up Payment shall be made by the Employer to the Executive as soon as practical following the Executive’s Termination Date, but in no event later than thirty (30) days following such Termination Date. For purposes of determining the amount of the Gross-Up Payment, the Executive shall be deemed to pay federal income taxes at the highest applicable marginal rate of federal income taxation for the calendar year in which the

 

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Gross-Up Payment is to be made, and to pay state and local income taxes at the highest applicable marginal rate of taxation in the state and locality of the Executive’s residence on the Executive’s Termination Date for the calendar year in which the Gross-Up Payment is to be made, net of the maximum reduction in federal income taxes which could be obtained from deduction of such state and local taxes.

(d) Death or Disability . The Executive’s employment with the Employer shall terminate upon Executive’s death or “Disability” (defined below), in which case the Executive (or his estate and heirs) shall be entitled to no compensation or other benefits of any kind whatsoever under this Agreement for any period after the Executive’s date of termination other than the Accrued Obligations. In addition, the Executive (or his estate and heirs) shall be permitted to exercise any stock options (to the extent vested as of the date of Executive’s termination of employment) for up to twelve (12) months following such date of termination.

(e) Termination Due to Non-Renewal . If the Executive’s employment with the Employer terminates due to the Employer’s notice of non-renewal of the Term in accordance with Section 1(a), then the Executive shall be entitled to no compensation or other benefits of any kind whatsoever, other than the Accrued Obligations. Any options held by the Executive at such time (to the extent vested as of the Termination Date) shall be exercisable for the period specified in the Plan as in effect at such time. All unvested Restricted Shares held by the Executive as of the Termination Date shall be forfeited.

(f) Release . Payment of any amounts under this Section 5 (other than the Accrued Obligations) shall be contingent upon Executive executing a general release of claims in favor of the Employer, its subsidiaries and affiliates, and their respective officers, directors, shareholders, partners, members, managers, agents or employees, which release shall be provided to the Executive within five (5) business days following the Termination Date, and which must be executed by the Executive and become effective within thirty (30) days thereafter. Severance payments under this Section 5 that are contingent upon such release shall commence within ten (10) days after such release becomes effective.

(g) Termination With Cause . The Employer may terminate this Agreement immediately for “Cause” by giving written notice to the Executive. In the event that this Agreement is terminated pursuant to this Section 5(g), the Executive shall be entitled to no compensation or other benefits of any kind whatsoever for any period after the Termination Date set forth in the notice given by the Employer to the Executive, except for the Accrued Obligations. All unexercised stock options and unvested Restricted Shares held by the Executive as of the Termination Date shall be forfeited.

(h) Definitions .

(i) “ Cause ” shall mean: (1) the Executive’s gross negligence in the performance of the material responsibilities of his office or position; (2) the Executive’s gross or willful misconduct in the performance of the material responsibilities of his office or position; (3) material failure or refusal by the Executive to perform his duties, as such may be reasonably assigned to him from time to time, other than by reason of his disability, or other acts or omissions constituting material neglect or dereliction of his duties; (4) any conviction by a court

 

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of law of, or entry of a pleading of guilty or nolo contendre by Executive with respect to a felony; (5) the Executive’s embezzlement or intentional misappropriation of any property of the Employer (other than good faith expense account disputes); (6) the Executive’s breach of Section 6 of this Agreement; (7) fraud, dishonesty or other acts or omissions by the Executive that constitute a willful breach of his fiduciary duty to the Employer; (8) the Executive’s use of alcohol or drugs which materially interferes with the performance of his duties hereunder; or (9) the Executive’s use of alcohol or drugs which materially compromises the integrity and reputation of the Employer, or that of its employees, services or products. For purposes of this definition, an act or failure to act shall be considered “willful” only if done or omitted to be done without a good faith reasonable belief that such act or failure to act was in the best interests of the Employer. The Executive shall be given notice of the termination of his employment for Cause. If the Executive shall be terminated pursuant to clause (1), (2), (3), (6) or (8) above, the Executive shall be given thirty (30) days to cure the matter (if curable). In all other cases, termination shall be effective as of the date notice is given.

(ii) “Change in Control Event” shall be deemed to have occurred if any of the following events occur:

(a) the consummation of any consolidation or merger of Lakeland Bancorp in which Lakeland Bancorp is not the continuing or surviving corporation or pursuant to which shares of Common Stock would be converted into cash, securities or other property, other than a merger of Lakeland Bancorp in which the holders of the shares of Lakeland Bancorp’s Common Stock immediately prior to the merger have the same proportionate ownership of common stock of the surviving corporation immediately after the merger; or

(b) the consummation of any sale, lease, exchange or other transfer (in one transaction or a series of related transactions) of all, or substantially all, of the assets of Lakeland Bancorp, other than to a subsidiary or affiliate; or

(c) an approval by the shareholders of Lakeland Bancorp of any plan or proposal for the liquidation or dissolution of Lakeland Bancorp; or

(d) any action pursuant to which any person (as such term is defined in Section 13(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”)), corporation or other entity (other than any person who owns more than ten percent (10%) of the outstanding Common Stock on the date on which this Agreement is first entered into) shall become the “beneficial owner” (as such term is defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of shares of capital stock entitled to vote generally for the election of directors of Lakeland Bancorp (“Voting Securities”) representing fifty-one (51%) percent or more of the combined voting power of Lakeland Bancorp’s then outstanding Voting Securities (calculated as provided in Rule 13d-3(d) in the case of rights to acquire any such securities), unless, prior to such person so becoming such beneficial owner, the Board shall determine that such person so becoming such beneficial owner shall not constitute a Change in Control; or

 

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(e) the individuals (A) who, as of the date on which this Agreement is first entered into, constitute the Board (the “Original Directors”) and (B) who thereafter are elected to the Board and whose election, or nomination for election, to the Board was approved by a vote of at least two thirds of the Original Directors then still in office (such Directors being called “Additional Original Directors”) and (C) who thereafter are elected to the Board and whose election or nomination for election to the Board was approved by a vote of at least two thirds of the Original Directors and Additional Original Directors then still in office, cease for any reason to constitute a majority of the members of the Board.

(iii) “ Disability ” shall mean that Executive is incapable of performing his principal duties due to physical or mental incapacity or impairment for 180 consecutive days, or for 240 non-consecutive days, during any 12 month period.

(iv) “ Good Reason ” shall mean (a) a material adverse reduction in the Executive’s duties and responsibilities without his consent, or a reduction in the Executive’s title or positions (other than during any period of illness or disability); (b) a material breach by the Employer of a material term of this Agreement, (c) the relocation of the Executive’s principal office location, without the Executive’s consent, to a location that is anywhere outside of a 30 mile radius of Oak Ridge, New Jersey, (d) any reduction, without the Executive’s consent, of the Executive’s Base Salary, or (e) any failure of the Board to nominate the Executive for election to the Lakeland Bancorp Board at an annual meeting of shareholders or failure of the shareholders of Lakeland Bancorp to elect the Executive to the Board at such annual meeting (unless the Executive is prohibited by law from serving as a director of the Board). No event described in clauses (a) through (e) above shall constitute “Good Reason” unless the Executive provides the Board with written notice of the Executive’s objection to such event within thirty (30) days after such event first occurs, and the Employer is afforded an opportunity to cure within thirty (30) days after the Board’s receipt of such notice.

(v) “ Change in Control Severance Amount ” shall equal three (3) times the sum of (a) an amount equal to the Executive’s annual Base Salary at the rate in effect as of the Executive’s Termination Date, plus (b) an amount equal to the highest annual bonus paid to the Executive by the Employer during the last three (3) years prior to the Executive’s Terminate Date.

(vi) “ No Change in Control Severance Amount ” shall equal an amount equal to thirty-six (36) months of Base Salary at the rate in effect as of the Executive’s Termination Date.

(i) No Mitigation . In no event shall the Executive be obligated to seek other employment or take any other action by way of mitigation of the amounts payable to the Executive under any of the provisions of this Agreement.

 

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Section 6. Confidentiality and Covenants Against Competition, Solicitation, Disparagement .

(a) The Executive agrees that his services hereunder are of a special, unique, extraordinary and intellectual character, and his position with the Employer places him in a position of confidence and trust with employees, customers, and suppliers of the Employer. The Executive further agrees and acknowledges that in the course of the Executive’s employment with the Employer, the Executive has been and will be privy to confidential information of the Employer. The Executive consequently agrees that it is reasonable and necessary for the protection of the trade secrets, goodwill and business of the Employer that the Executive make the covenants contained herein. Accordingly, the Executive agrees that while employed by the Employer and during the “Restrictive Period” (defined below), the Executive shall not (without the express prior written consent of the Employer), anywhere in the world, directly or indirectly,

(i) become Associated With any Competing Business in the Territory; or

(ii) solicit, sell, call upon or induce others to solicit, sell or call upon, directly or indirectly, any customer or prospective customer of the Employer for the purpose of inducing any such customer or prospective customer to purchase, license or lease a product or service of a Competing Business in the Territory; or

(iii) employ, solicit for employment, or advise or recommend to any other person that they employ or solicit for employment or retention as a consultant, any person who is, or was at any time within twelve (12) months prior to the last day of Executive’s employment with the Employer, an employee of, or exclusive consultant to, the Employer.

(b) For purposes of this Section 6, the term:

(i) “ Employer ” shall include the Employer, and any of its subsidiaries or affiliates.

(ii) “ Competing Business ” means that portion or segment of the business of any person, corporation or other entity which, directly or indirectly, engages in providing financial services or advice or takes deposits or makes loans.

(iii) “ Associated With ” means serving as an owner, officer, employee, independent contractor, agent or a holder of 5% or more of any class of equity securities of, director, trustee, member, consultant or partner of any person, corporation or other entity engaged in a Competing Business.

(iv) “ Restrictive Period ” means the twelve (12) month period commencing from the Executive’s date of termination with the Employer.

(v) “ Territory ” means a geographic area equal to 20 miles from any of the Employer’s branches at the time of Executive’s termination of employment.

 

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(c) If the Executive commits a breach or is about to commit a breach, of any of the provisions of this Section 6, the Employer shall have the right to have the provisions of this Agreement specifically enforced by any court having equity jurisdiction without being required to post bond or other security and without having to prove the inadequacy of the available remedies at law, it being acknowledged and agreed that any such breach or threatened breach will cause irreparable injury to the Employer and that money damages will not provide an adequate remedy to the Employer. In addition, the Employer may take all such other actions and remedies available to it under law or in equity and shall be entitled to such damages as it can show it has sustained by reason of such breach.

(d) Executive shall not make any negative or disparaging comments regarding the Employer or its subsidiaries or affiliates, or any of their respective officers, directors, shareholders, partners, members, managers, agents or employees (collectively, the “ Representatives ”), including regarding the performance of the Employer or such subsidiaries or affiliates, or otherwise take any action that could reasonably be expected to adversely affect the Employer or its subsidiaries or affiliates or the personal or professional reputation of any of their respective Representatives; and the Employer and its Representatives shall not make any negative or disparaging comments regarding Executive, or otherwise take any action that could reasonably be expected to adversely affect the personal or professional reputation of Executive. Disclosure of information required to be disclosed by either party pursuant to any applicable law, court order, subpoena, compulsory process of law, or governmental decree shall not constitute a violation or breach of this Section 6(d); provided , that the disclosing party delivers written notice of such required disclosure to the other parties promptly before making such disclosure if such notice is not prohibited by applicable law, court order, subpoena, compulsory process of law, or governmental decree.

(e) The Executive further agrees that all documents, reports, plans, proposals, marketing and sales plans, customer lists, or materials principally relating to the businesses of the Employer or any of its subsidiaries or affiliates and made by the Executive or that came or come into the Executive’s possession by reason of the Executive’s employment by the Employer are the property of such entities and shall not be used by the Executive in any way adverse to the interests of the Employer or any of its subsidiaries or affiliates. The Executive will not, during the Term and thereafter, deliver, reproduce or in any way allow such documents or things to be delivered or used by any third party without specific direction or consent of a duly authorized representative of the Employer. During or after termination of the Executive’s employment with the Employer, the Executive will not publish, release or otherwise make available to any third party any information describing any trade secret or other confidential information of the Employer without prior specific written authorization of the Employer.

(f) During the Term and thereafter, the Executive will regard and preserve as confidential all trade secrets and other confidential information pertaining to the business of the Employer that have been or may be obtained by the Executive by reason of the Executive’s employment by the Employer. The Executive will not, without written authority from the Employer to do so, use for the Executive’s own benefit or purposes, nor disclose to others, either during the Executive’s employment by the Employer or thereafter any trade secret or other confidential information relating to the business of the Employer, except as required in the course of the Executive’s employment with the Employer, or as required by law, or as (and only

 

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to the extent) required pursuant to legal process or by an order of a court having competent jurisdiction or under subpoena from an appropriate government agency (and then only after providing the Employer with the opportunity to prevent such disclosure or to receive confidential treatment for the confidential information required to be disclosed); and the Executive will not take or retain or copy any of the information, customer lists, or other documents of the Employer. This Section 6(f) shall not apply with respect to information which has been voluntarily disclosed to the public by or with the consent of the Employer, independently developed and disclosed by others, or otherwise enters the public domain through lawful means.

(g) For purposes of this Agreement, the term “trade secret” shall include, but not be limited to, information encompassed in all plans, proposals, marketing and sales plans, customer lists, mailing lists, financial information, costs, pricing information, and all concepts or ideas in or reasonably related to the businesses of the Employer (whether or not divulged by the Executive or other employees or agents of the Employer) that have not previously been publicly released by duly authorized representatives of the Employer.

(h) Executive acknowledges that the type and periods of restriction imposed in the provisions of this Section 6 are fair and reasonable and are reasonably required for the protection of the Employer and the goodwill associated with the business of the Employer; and that the time, scope, geographic area and other provisions of this Section 6 have been specifically negotiated by sophisticated parties and are given as an integral part of this Agreement. The Executive specifically acknowledges that the restrictions contemplated by this Agreement will not prevent him from being employed or earning a livelihood. If any of the covenants in this Section 6, or any part thereof, is hereafter construed to be invalid or unenforceable, the same shall not affect the remainder of the covenants, which shall be given full effect, without regard to the invalid portions. If any of the covenants contained in this Section 6, or any part thereof, is held to be unenforceable because of the duration of such provision or the area covered thereby, the parties agree that the court making such determination shall have the power to reduce the duration and/or areas of such provision and, in its reduced form, such provision shall then be enforceable. The parties hereto intend to and hereby confer jurisdiction to enforce the covenants contained in this Section 6 upon the courts of any state or other jurisdiction within the geographical scope of such covenants. In the event that the courts of any one or more of such states or other jurisdictions shall hold such covenants wholly unenforceable by reason of the breadth of such scope or otherwise, it is the intention of the parties hereto that such determination not bar or in any way affect the right of the Employer to the relief provided above in the courts of any other states or other jurisdictions within the geographical scope of such covenants, as to breaches of such covenants in such other respective states or other jurisdictions, the above covenants as they relate to each state or other jurisdiction being, for this purpose, severable into diverse and independent covenants. The existence of any claim or cause of action by the Executive against the Employer shall not constitute a defense to the enforcement by the Employer of the foregoing restrictive covenants, but such claim or cause of action shall be determined separately.

(i) The Executive further agrees that a copy of a summons and complaint seeking the entry of such order may be served upon the Executive by certified mail, return receipt requested, at the address set forth above or at any other address which the Executive shall designate in a writing addressed to the Employer in the manner that notices are to be addressed pursuant to Section 9 of this Agreement.

 

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Section 7. Assignment of Developments; Works for Hire. If at any time or times during Executive’s employment with the Employer, the Executive shall (either alone or with others) make, conceive, discover or reduce to practice any invention, modification, discovery, design, development, improvement, process, software program, work-of-authorship, documentation, formula, data, technique, know-how, secret or intellectual property right whatsoever or any interest therein (whether or not patentable or registrable under copyright or similar statutes or subject to analogous protection) (herein called “ Developments ”) that (a) relates to the business of the Employer (or any subsidiary or affiliate of the Employer) or any customer of or supplier to the Employer (or any of its subsidiaries or affiliates) or any of the products or services being developed, manufactured, sold or provided by the Employer or which may be used in relation therewith or (b) results from tasks assigned to the Executive by the Employer, such Developments and the benefits thereof shall immediately become the sole and absolute property of the Employer and its assigns, and the Executive shall promptly disclose to the Employer (or any persons designated by it) each such Development and hereby assigns any rights the Executive may have or acquire in the Developments and benefits and/or rights resulting therefrom to the Employer and its assigns without further compensation and shall communicate, without cost or delay, and without publishing the same, all available information relating thereto (with all necessary documentation, plans and models) to the Employer.

Upon disclosure of each Development to the Employer, the Executive will, during the Term and at any time thereafter, at the request and cost of the Employer, sign, execute, make and do all such deeds, documents, acts and things as the Employer and its duly authorized agents may reasonably require:

(a) to apply for, obtain and vest in the name of the Employer alone (unless the Employer otherwise directs) letters patent, copyrights, trademarks, service marks or other analogous protection in any country throughout the world and when so obtained or vested to renew and restore the same; and

(b) to defend any opposition proceedings in respect of such applications and any opposition proceedings or petitions or applications for revocation of such letters patent, copyrights, trademarks, service marks or other analogous protection.

In the event the Employer is unable, after reasonable effort, to secure the Executive’s signature on any letters patent, copyrights, trademarks, service marks or other analogous protection relating to a Development, whether because of the Executive’s physical or mental incapacity or for any other reason whatsoever, the Executive hereby irrevocably designates and appoints the Employer and its duly authorized officers and agents as the Executive’s agent and attorney-in-fact, to act for and on his behalf and stead to execute and file any such application or applications and to do all other lawfully permitted acts to further the prosecution and issuance of any such letters patent, copyrights, trademarks, service marks and other analogous protection thereon with the same legal force and effect as if executed by the Executive.

 

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Section 8. Withholding Taxes . The Employer may directly or indirectly withhold from any payments to be made under this Agreement all Federal, state, city or other taxes and all other deductions as shall be required pursuant to any law or governmental regulation or ruling or pursuant to any contributory benefit plan maintained by the Employer.

Section 9. Notices. All notices, requests, demands and other communications required or permitted hereunder shall be given in writing, and shall be deemed effective upon (a) personal delivery, if delivered by hand, (b) three (3) days after the date of deposit in the mails, postage prepaid, if mailed by certified or registered United States mail, or (c) the next business day, if sent by a prepaid overnight courier service, and in each case addressed as follows:

 

  (a) To the Employer:

Lakeland Bancorp, Inc.

250 Oak Ridge Road

Oak Ridge, New Jersey 07438

Attention: Chairman of the Board

with a copy (which shall not be deemed notice) to:

Peter H. Ehrenberg, Esq.

Lowenstein Sandler PC

65 Livingston Avenue

Roseland, New Jersey 07068

 

  (b) To the Executive:

to the Executive at the Executive’s

address listed above.

with a copy (which shall not be deemed notice) to:

Charles R. Berman, Esq.

Thacher Proffitt & Wood LLP

25 DeForest Avenue

Summit, New Jersey 07901

or to such other address as either party shall have previously specified in writing to the other.

Section 10. No Attachment . Except as required by law, no right to receive payments under this Agreement shall be subject to anticipation, commutation, alienation, sale, assignment, encumbrance, charge, pledge, or hypothecation or to execution, attachment, levy or similar process or assignment by operation of law, and any attempt, voluntary or involuntary, to effect any such action shall be null, void and of no effect; provided, however, that nothing in this Section 10 shall preclude the assumption of such rights by executors, administrators or other legal representatives of the Executive or the Executive’s estate and their assigning any rights hereunder to the person or persons entitled thereto.

 

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Section 11. Binding Agreement; No Assignment . This Agreement shall be binding upon, and shall inure to the benefit of, the Executive, the Employer and their respective permitted successors, assigns, heirs, beneficiaries and representatives. This Agreement is personal to the Executive and may not be assigned by the Executive without the prior written consent of the Board, as evidenced by a resolution of the Board. Any attempted assignment in violation of this Section 11 shall be null and void.

Section 12. Governing Law; Consent to Jurisdiction; Arbitration . This Agreement, and all matters arising directly or indirectly from this Agreement, shall be governed by, and construed and interpreted in accordance with, the laws of the State of New Jersey, without giving effect to the choice of law provisions thereof. Any unresolved controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this Agreement, except (i) as otherwise provided in this Agreement or (ii) with respect to which a party seeks injunctive or other equitable relief, shall be submitted to arbitration by one arbitrator pursuant to the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association (the “ AAA ”). Judgment upon any award rendered in such arbitration will be binding and may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof. The parties agree that the arbitrator in any such matter shall be directed to award reasonable attorneys’ fees to the prevailing party. The arbitrator shall also be directed to award the arbitrator’s compensation charges and the administrative fees of the AAA to the prevailing party. The parties knowingly and voluntarily agree to this arbitration provision and acknowledge that arbitration shall be instead of any civil litigation, meaning that the parties each are waiving any rights to a jury trial . Each of the parties to this Agreement consents to personal jurisdiction and venue for any equitable action sought in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey and any state court of competent jurisdiction in the State of New Jersey that is located in Passaic County (and in the appropriate appellate courts from any of the foregoing). Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Executive and the Employer agree that, prior to submitting a dispute under this Agreement to arbitration, the parties shall submit, for a period of sixty (60) days, to voluntary mediation before a jointly selected neutral third party mediator under the auspices of JAMS, New York City, New York, Resolution Center (or any successor location), pursuant to the procedures of JAMS International Mediation Rules conducted in the State of New York (however, such mediation or obligation to mediate shall not suspend or otherwise delay any termination or other action of the Employer or affect any other right of the Employer).

Section 13. Entire Agreement . This Agreement shall constitute the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the matters covered hereby and supersedes all previous written, oral or implied understandings between them with respect to such matters.

Section 14. Amendments . This Agreement may only be amended or otherwise modified by a writing executed by each of the parties hereto.

Section 15. Survivorship . The provisions of Sections 5 through 13 hereof and this Section 15 shall survive the termination of this Agreement.

 

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Section 16. Indemnification. The Employer shall indemnify, defend and hold the Executive harmless for actions and omissions as an officer and/or director of the Employer to the extent set forth in the Employer’s By-laws and/or Certificate of Incorporation, as applicable. The Employer agrees that the Executive shall be covered by directors and officers insurance coverage during the Term on the same basis as the Employer maintains such coverage for other officers and directors of the Employer.

Section 17. Key Man Life Insurance . If requested by the Employer, the Executive agrees to cooperate with the Employer in obtaining any key man life insurance coverage insuring the Executive’s life and to submit to such physical examinations as may be needed to secure such coverage.

Section 18. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts or facsimile copies, each of which when executed shall be deemed to be an original and all of which together shall be deemed to be one and the same instrument.

Section 19. Legal Counsel . The Executive represents that he is knowledgeable and sophisticated as to business matters, including the subject matter of this Agreement, that he has read this Agreement and that he understands its terms. The Executive acknowledges that, prior to assenting to the terms of this Agreement, he has been given a reasonable period of time to review it, to consult with counsel of his choice, and to negotiate at arm’s-length with the Employer as to its contents. The Executive and the Employer agree that the language used in this Agreement is the language chosen by the parties to express their mutual intent, and that they have entered into this Agreement freely and voluntarily and without pressure or coercion from anyone.

Section 20. Section 409A . This Agreement shall be interpreted to avoid any penalty sanctions under Section 409A of the Code (“ Section 409A ”) and regulations promulgated thereunder. Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, the Executive shall not be considered to have terminated employment with the Employer for purposes of the payments and benefit of Section 5 hereof unless he would be considered to have incurred a “termination of employment” from the Employer within the meaning of Treasury Regulation §1.409A-1(h)(1)(ii). For purposes of Section 409A, each payment made under this Agreement shall be treated as a separate payment. In no event may the Executive, directly or indirectly, designate the calendar year of payment. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if necessary to comply with the restriction in Section 409A(a)(2)(B) of the Code concerning payments to “specified employees”, any payment as a result of the termination of the Executive’s employment that would otherwise be due hereunder within six months after such termination of employment shall nonetheless be delayed until the first business day of the seventh month following the Executive’s date of termination and the first such payment shall include the cumulative amount of any payments that would have been paid prior to such date if not for such restriction.

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the Employer has caused this Agreement to be executed and delivered by its duly authorized officer and the Executive has signed this Agreement, all as of the first date written above.

 

LAKELAND BANCORP, INC.
By:  

/s/ John W. Fredericks

  John W. Fredericks
  Chairman of the Board
LAKELAND BANK
By:  

/s/ John W. Fredericks

  John W. Fredericks
  Chairman of the Board
EXECUTIVE:

/s/ Thomas J. Shara

Thomas J. Shara

 

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Exhibit 10.2

SUPPLEMENTAL EXECUTIVE RETIREMENT PLAN AGREEMENT

FOR THOMAS J. SHARA

THIS AGREEMENT is made effective as of April 2, 2008 (the “Effective Date”), by and among Lakeland Bancorp, Inc., a New Jersey corporation (the “Corporation”), Lakeland Bank, a New Jersey state chartered bank (the “Bank” and, collectively with the Corporation, the “Company”), and Thomas J. Shara (the “Executive”), intending to be legally bound hereby.

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this Agreement is to provide specified benefits to Thomas J. Shara, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation, in consideration of his anticipated future contributions to the continued growth, development and future business success of the Company.

AGREEMENT

Article 1

Definitions

1.1 Definitions . Whenever used in this Agreement, the following words and phrases shall have the meanings specified:

1.1.1 “Beneficiary” means the person designated in writing by the Executive, pursuant to such forms provided by the Company and as described herein, to serve as his beneficiary under this Agreement in the event of his death.

1.1.2 “Board” means the Board of Directors of the Corporation.

1.1.3 Termination for “Cause” shall have the meaning set forth in the Employment Agreement.

1.1.4 “Change in Control” means a “Change in Control Event” as defined in the Employment Agreement; provided , however , that no event or occurrence shall constitute a Change in Control unless it also constitutes a “change in the ownership of the Corporation,” a “change in the effective control of the Corporation,” or a “change in the ownership of a substantial portion of the Corporation’s assets” (within the meaning of Section 409A(a)(2)(A)(v) of the Code).

1.1.4 “Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

1.1.5 “Disability” shall have the meaning set forth in the Employment Agreement.


1.1.6 “Early Termination” means Termination of Employment before Normal Retirement Age for reasons other than death, Termination for Cause or following a Change in Control.

1.1.7 “Employment Agreement” means that certain Employment Agreement, by and among the Executive, the Corporation and the Bank, dated as of the date hereof.

1.1.8 “Exchange Act” means the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

1.1.9 “Good Reason” shall have the meaning set forth in the Employment Agreement.

1.1.10 “Normal Retirement Age” means the Executive’s 65 th birthday.

1.1.11 “ Normal Retirement Date ” means the later of the Normal Retirement Age or Termination of Employment.

1.1.12 “ Plan Year ” means the calendar year.

1.1.13 “Specified Employee” means a key employee (as defined in Section 416(i) of the Code without regard to paragraph 5 thereof) of the Corporation if any stock of the Corporation is publicly traded on an established securities market or otherwise, as determined by the plan administrator based on the twelve (12) month period ending each December 31 (the “identification period”). If the Executive is determined to be a Specified Employee for an identification period, the Executive shall be treated as a Specified Employee for purposes of this Agreement during the twelve (12) month period that begins on the first day of the fourth month following the close of the identification period.

1.1.14 “Termination of Employment” means the termination of the Executive’s employment with the Company for reasons other than death; provided , however , that a Termination of Employment will not have occurred unless and until the Executive ceases to provide services as an employee of the Company at an annual rate that is less than twenty percent (20%) of the services rendered by the Executive to the Company, on average, during the immediately preceding three (3) full calendar years of employment (or, if employed less than three (3) years, such lesser period) and the annual remuneration for such services is less than twenty percent (20%) of the average annual remuneration earned during the final three (3) full calendar years of employment (or, if less, such lesser period). The Executive shall not be considered to have a Termination of Employment if the Executive continues to provide services to the Company in a capacity other than as an employee of the Company at an annual rate that is fifty percent (50%) or more of the services rendered by the Executive to the Company, on average, during the immediately preceding three (3) full calendar years of employment (of if employed less than three (3) years, such lesser period) and the annual remuneration for such services is fifty percent (50%) or more of the average annual remuneration earned by the Executive from the Company during the final three (3) full calendar years of employment (or if less, such lesser period). The Executive’s employment relationship will be treated as continuing intact

 

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while the Executive is on military leave, sick leave or other bona fide leave of absence if the period of such leave of absence does not exceed six (6) months, or if longer, so long as the Executive’s right to re-employment with the Company is provided either by statute or by contract. If the period of leave exceeds six (6) months and there is no right to re-employment, a Termination of Employment will be deemed to have occurred as of the first date immediately following such six (6) month period.

Article 2

Living Benefits

2.1 Normal Retirement Benefit . The Company shall pay to the Executive the benefit described in this Section 2.1 in lieu of any other benefit under this Agreement (other than the death benefit under Sections 3.2 or 3.3) upon Termination of Employment on or after the Normal Retirement Age for a reason other than due to the Executive’s death.

2.1.1 Amount of Benefit . The annual Normal Retirement Benefit under this Section 2.1 is $150,000.00 (one hundred fifty thousand dollars).

2.1.2 Payment of Benefit . The Company shall pay the annual benefit to the Executive in equal monthly installments of $12,500 each, payable on or about the first day of the month following the Executive’s Normal Retirement Date and continuing for the 179 consecutive months that follow.

2.2 Early Termination Benefit . If, prior to a Change in Control, the Executive resigns his employment with the Company for Good Reason, the Executive’s employment with the Company terminates due to Disability, or the Executive’s employment with the Company is terminated by the Company other than as a result of a Termination for Cause, the Company shall, in lieu of any other benefit under this Agreement (other than the death benefit under Sections 3.2 or 3.3), pay to the Executive the Normal Retirement Benefit set forth in Section 2.1.1 in equal monthly installments of $12,500 each, payable on or about the first day of the month commencing with the month following the Executive’s Normal Retirement Age and continuing for the 179 consecutive months that follow.

2.3 Change in Control Benefit. If Executive is employed by the Company at the time of a Change in Control, the Company shall, in lieu of any other benefit under this Agreement (other than the death benefit under Sections 3.2 or 3.3), pay to the Executive the Normal Retirement Benefit set forth in Section 2.1.1 in equal monthly installments of $12,500 each, payable on or about the first day of the month commencing with the month following the Executive’s Normal Retirement Age and continuing for the 179 consecutive months that follow.

2.4 Restriction on Timing of Distributions. Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement to the contrary, if the Executive is considered a Specified Employee at Termination of Employment, if necessary to comply with the restriction in Section 409A(a)(2)(B) of the Code, any payment that would otherwise be due to the Executive hereunder within six months after such Termination of Employment shall nonetheless be delayed until the first business day of the seventh month following Employee’s Termination of Employment and the first such payment shall include the cumulative amount of any payments that would have been paid prior to such date if not for such restriction.

 

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Article 3

Death Benefits

3.1 Death During Active Service . If the Executive’s employment with the Company terminates due to death, the Company shall, in lieu of the Living Benefits of Article 2, pay to the Executive’s Beneficiary the Normal Retirement Benefit set forth in Section 2.1.1 in 180 equal monthly installments of $12,500 each, payable on or about the first day of each month commencing within 60 days of receipt by the Company of the Executive’s death certificate.

3.2 Death During Benefit Period . If the Executive dies after the benefit payments have commenced under this Agreement but before receiving all such payments, the Company shall pay the remaining benefits to the Executive’s Beneficiary at the same time and in the same amounts they would have been paid to the Executive had the Executive survived.

3.3 Death Following Termination of Employment But Before Benefits Commence. If the Executive is entitled to benefits under this Agreement, but dies prior to receiving said benefits, the Company shall pay to the Executive’s Beneficiary the same benefits, in the same manner, they would have been paid to the Executive had the Executive survived; however, said benefit payments will commence within 60 days of receipt by the Company of the Executive’s death certificate.

Article 4

Beneficiaries

4.1 Beneficiary Designations . The Executive shall designate a Beneficiary hereunder by filing a written designation with the Company. The Executive may revoke or modify the designation at any time by filing a new designation. However, designations will only be effective if signed by the Executive and accepted by the Company during the Executive’s lifetime. The Executive’s designation shall be deemed automatically revoked if the Beneficiary predeceases the Executive, or if the Executive names a spouse as Beneficiary and the marriage is subsequently dissolved. If the Executive dies without a valid beneficiary designation, the Beneficiary shall be the Executive’s estate.

4.2 Facility of Payment . If a benefit is payable to a minor, to a person declared incapacitated, or to a person incapable of handling the disposition of his or her property, the Company may pay such benefit to the guardian, legal representative or person having the care or custody of such minor, incapacitated person or incapable person. The Company may require proof of incapacity, minority or guardianship, as it may deem appropriate prior to distribution of the benefit. Such distribution shall completely discharge the Company from all liability with respect to such benefit.

 

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Article 5

General Limitations

5.1 Excess Parachute Payment. The amounts payable pursuant to this Agreement shall be subject to the provisions of Section 5(c)(3) of the Employment Agreement.

5.2 No Benefits Payable . Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement to the contrary, the Company shall not pay any benefit under this Agreement if (i) the Company terminates the Executive’s employment as a result of a Termination for Cause, or (ii) the Executive resigns his employment with the Company other than for Good Reason prior to the earlier of Normal Retirement Age or a Change in Control.

5.3 Removal. Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement to the contrary, the Company shall not pay any benefit under this Agreement if the Executive is subject to a final removal or prohibition order issued by an appropriate federal banking agency pursuant to Section 8(e) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (“FDIA”).

5.4 Competition after Termination of Employment . The Executive shall forfeit his right to any further benefits if the Executive, prior to the occurrence of a Change in Control and without the prior written consent of the Company, violates any one of the restrictive covenants set forth in Section 6(a) of the Employment Agreement while such restrictive covenants are in effect.

5.5 Suicide or Misstatement . No benefits shall be payable if the Executive commits suicide within two years after the date of this Agreement, or if the insurance company denies coverage for material misstatements of fact made by the Executive on any application for life insurance purchased by the Company, or any other reason; provided , however , that the Company shall evaluate the reason for the denial, and upon advice of legal counsel and in its sole discretion, consider judicially challenging any denial.

Article 6

Claims and Review Procedures

6.1 Claims Procedure . If the Executive or the Executive’s Beneficiary (“claimant”) has not received benefits under the Agreement that he or she believes should be paid, he or she shall make a claim for such benefits as follows:

6.1.1 Initiation – Written Claim . The claimant initiates a claim by submitting to the Company a written claim for the benefits.

6.1.2 Timing of Company Response. The Company shall respond to such claimant within 90 days after receiving the claim. If the Company determines that special circumstances require additional time for processing the claim, the Company can extend the response period by an additional 90 days by notifying the claimant in writing, prior to the end of the initial 90-day period, that an additional period is required. The notice of extension must set forth the special circumstances and the date by which the Company expect to render their decision.

 

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6.1.3 Notice of Decision . If the Company denies part or all of the claim, the Company shall notify the claimant in writing of such denial. The Company shall write the notification in a manner calculated to be understood by the claimant. The notification shall set forth:

6.1.3.1 The specific reasons for the denial,

6.1.3.2 A reference to the specific provisions of the Agreement on which the denial is based,

6.1.3.3 A description of any additional information or material necessary for the claimant to perfect the claim and an explanation of why it is needed,

6.1.3.4 An explanation of the Agreement’s review procedures and the time limits applicable to such procedures, and

6.1.3.5 A statement of the claimant’s right to bring a civil action under Section 502(a) of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended (“ERISA”) following an adverse benefit determination on review.

6.2 Review Procedure . If the Company denies part or all of the claim, the claimant shall have the opportunity for a full and fair review by the Company of the denial, as follows:

6.2.1 Initiation – Written Request . To initiate the review, the claimant, within 60 days after receiving the Company’s notice of denial, must file with the Company a written request for review.

6.2.2 Additional Submissions – Information Access . The claimant shall then have the opportunity to submit written comments, documents, records and other information relating to the claim. The Company shall also provide the claimant, upon request and free of charge, reasonable access to, and copies of, all documents, records and other information relevant (as defined in applicable ERISA regulations) to the claimant’s claim for benefits.

6.2.3 Considerations on Review . In considering the review, the Company shall take into account all materials and information the claimant submits relating to the claim, without regard to whether such information was submitted or considered in the initial benefit determination.

6.2.4 Timing of Company Response . The Company shall respond in writing to such claimant within 60 days after receiving the request for review. If the Company determines that special circumstances require additional time for processing the claim, the Company can extend the response period by an additional 60 days by notifying the

 

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claimant in writing, prior to the end of the initial 60-day period, that an additional period is required. The notice of extension must set forth the special circumstances and the date by which the Company expects to render its decision.

6.2.5 Notice of Decision . The Company shall notify the claimant in writing of its decision on review. The Company shall write the notification in a manner calculated to be understood by the claimant. The notification shall set forth:

6.2.5.1 The specific reasons for the denial,

6.2.5.2 A reference to the specific provisions of the Plan on which the denial is based,

6.2.5.3 A statement that the claimant is entitled to receive, upon request and free of charge, reasonable access to, and copies of, all documents, records and other information relevant (as defined in applicable ERISA regulations) to the claimant’s claim for benefits, and

6.2.5.4 A statement of the claimant’s right to bring a civil action under ERISA Section 502(a).

Article 7

Amendments and Termination

7.1 Amendments. This Agreement may be amended only by a written agreement signed by the Company and the Executive. However, the Company may unilaterally amend this Agreement to conform with written directives to the Company from its auditors or banking regulators or to comply with legislative changes or tax law, including, without limitation, Section 409A of the Code and any and all Treasury regulations and guidance promulgated thereunder.

7.2 Plan Termination Generally. This Agreement may be terminated only by a written agreement signed by the Company and the Executive. The benefit hereunder shall be the amount the Company has accrued with respect to the Company’s obligations hereunder as of the date the Agreement is terminated. Except as provided in Section 7.3, the termination of this Agreement shall not cause a distribution of benefits under this Agreement. Rather, after such termination benefit distributions will be made at the earliest distribution event permitted under Article 2 or Article 3.

7.3 Plan Terminations Under Section 409A. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in Section 7.2, if this Agreement terminates in the following circumstances:

7.3.1 Within thirty (30) days before or twelve (12) months after a Change in Control, provided that all distributions are made no later than twelve (12) months following such termination of the Agreement and further provided that all the Company’s arrangements which are substantially similar to the Agreement are terminated so the Executive and all participants in the similar arrangements are required to receive all amounts of compensation accrued under the terminated arrangements within twelve (12) months of the termination of the arrangements;

 

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7.3.2 Upon the Company’s dissolution or with the approval of a bankruptcy court provided that the amounts deferred under the Agreement are included in the Executive’s gross income in the latest of (i) the calendar year in which the Agreement terminates; (ii) the calendar year in which the amount is no longer subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture; or (iii) the first calendar year in which the distribution is administratively practical; or

7.3.3 Upon the Company’s termination of this and all other non-account balance plans (as referenced in Section 409A of the Code or the regulations thereunder); provided that all distributions are made no earlier than twelve (12) months and no later than twenty-four (24) months following such termination, and the Company does not adopt any new non-account balance plans for a minimum of five (5) years following the date of such termination;

the Company may distribute the amount the Company has accrued with respect to the Company’s obligations hereunder, determined as of the date of the termination of the Agreement, to the Executive in a lump sum subject to the above terms.

Article 8

Miscellaneous

8.1 Administration. The Company shall have powers, which are necessary to administer this Agreement, including but not limited to:

8.1.1 Interpreting the provisions of the Agreement;

8.1.2 Establishing and revising the method of accounting for the Agreement; Maintaining a record of benefit payments;

8.1.3 Establishing rules and prescribing any forms necessary or desirable to administer the Agreement; and

8.1.4 Delegate any of the foregoing powers to any person or persons or committee or committees.

8.2 Applicable Law . The Agreement and all rights hereunder shall be governed by the laws of the State of New Jersey without regard to choice of law principles, except to the extent preempted by the laws of the United States of America.

8.3 Binding Effect . This Agreement shall bind the Executive and the Company, and their beneficiaries, survivors, executors, successors, administrators and transferees.

 

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8.4 Entire Agreement. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the Company and the Executive as to the subject matter hereof; provided, however, that nothing herein is intended to supersede any provision of the Employment Agreement. No rights are granted to the Executive by virtue of this Agreement other than those specifically set forth herein.

8.5 Administrator. The Company shall be the administrator under this Agreement. The Company may delegate to others certain aspects of the management and operational responsibilities including the service of advisors and the delegation of ministerial duties to qualified individuals.

8.6 Right of Offset . The Company shall have the right to offset the benefits against any unpaid obligation the Executive may have with the Company.

8.7 No Guarantee of Employment . This Agreement is not an employment policy or contract. It does not give the Executive the right to remain an employee of the Company, nor does it interfere with the Company’s right to discharge the Executive. It also does not require the Executive to remain an employee of the Company nor interfere with the Executive’s right to terminate employment at any time.

8.8 Non-Transferability . Benefits under this Agreement cannot be sold, transferred, assigned, pledged, attached or encumbered in any manner.

8.9 Notice . For the purposes of this Agreement, notices and all other communications provided for in this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given when delivered or mailed by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid, addressed to the respective addresses set forth below:

 

To the Company:    Secretary
   Lakeland Bancorp, Inc.
   250 Oak Ridge Road
   Oak Ridge, New Jersey 07438
To the Executive:    Thomas J. Shara
   92 Frost Court
   Wyckoff, New Jersey 07481

8.10 Facility of Payment . If the Executive is declared to be incompetent, or incapable of handling the disposition of his or her property, the Company may pay any benefit due hereunder to the duly appointed guardian, legal representative or person having the care or custody of the Executive. The Company may require proof of incompetence, minority or guardianship as it may deem appropriate prior to distribution of the benefit. Such distribution shall completely discharge the Company from all liability with respect to such benefit.

 

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8.11 Reorganization. Neither the Corporation nor the Bank shall merge or consolidate into or with another company, or reorganize, or sell substantially all of its assets to another company, firm or person unless such succeeding or continuing company, firm or person agrees to assume and discharge the obligations of the Corporation and the Bank hereunder.

8.12 Tax Withholding . The Company shall withhold any taxes that are required to be withheld from the benefits provided under this Agreement.

8.13 Unfunded Plan; Nature of Obligations. The benefits to be provided under this Agreement shall be “unfunded” within the meaning of Title I of ERISA. The Company shall not be required to segregate or invest any amounts credited hereunder, and all such amounts shall continue for all purposes to be a part of the general funds of the Company. The Executive’s right to receive payments from the Company hereunder shall be no greater than the right of any other unsecured general creditor of the Company. The Executive shall have no right to transfer, assign, alienate, anticipate, pledge, or encumber any part of the benefits provided hereunder, nor shall such benefits be subject to seizure by legal process by any creditor of the Executive. Any attempt to effect such a diversion or seizure shall be deemed null and void for all purposes hereunder.

8.14 Headings. The section headings contained in this Agreement are for reference purposes only and shall not affect in any way the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement.

8.15 Validity. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision of this Agreement shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provisions of this Agreement, which shall remain in full force and effect.

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

8.17 Regulatory Prohibition. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement to the contrary, any payments made to the Executive pursuant to this Agreement, or otherwise, are subject to and conditioned upon their compliance with Section 18(k) of the FDIA (12 U.S.C. §1828(k)) and any regulations promulgated thereunder.

8.18 Compliance with Section 409A. This Agreement shall at all times be administered and the provisions of this Agreement shall be interpreted consistent with the requirements of Section 409A of the Code and any and all regulations thereunder, including regulations as may be promulgated after the Effective Date of this Agreement. For purposes of Section 409A of the Code, each payment made under this Agreement shall be treated as a separate payment. In no event may the Executive, directly or indirectly, designate the calendar year of payment.

[Signature Page Follows]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the Executive and duly authorized officers of the Corporation and the Bank have signed this Agreement.

 

   

/s/ Thomas J. Shara

    Thomas J. Shara
WITNESS:      

/s/ Julie Stachura

     
    LAKELAND BANK
    By:  

/s/ John Fredericks

    Name:   John Fredericks
    Title:   Chairman
WITNESS:      

/s/ Julie Stachura

     
    LAKELAND BANCORP, INC.
    By:  

/s/ John Fredericks

    Name:   John Fredericks
    Title:   Chairman
WITNESS:      

/s/ Julie Stachura

     

 

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BENEFICIARY DESIGNATION

SUPPLEMENTAL EXECUTIVE RETIREMENT PLAN AGREEMENT

Thomas J Shara

I designate the following as Beneficiary of any death benefits under the Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Agreement:

 

Primary:  

 

 

 

Contingent:  

 

 

 

Note:   To name a trust as Beneficiary, please provide the name of the trustee(s) and the exact name and date of the trust agreement.

I understand that I may change these Beneficiary designations by filing a new written designation with the Company. I further understand that the designations will be automatically revoked if the Beneficiary predeceases me, or, if I have named my spouse as Beneficiary, in the event of the dissolution of our marriage.

Signature                                                                                  

Date                                                                                           

Accepted by the Company this          day of              , 2008.

By:                                                              

Title:                                                            

 

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