UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

SCHEDULE 14A

Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the

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American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc.


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AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING HOLDINGS, INC.
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LOGO

One Dauch Drive

Detroit, Michigan 48211-1198

www.aam.com

One Dauch Drive
Detroit, Michigan48211-1198
www.aam.com
(American Axle & MFG Logo)
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

April 28, 2011May 2, 2013

American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc. (AAM)

Time and Place

3:00 p.m., local time, on Thursday, April 28, 2011
May 2, 2013
AAM World Headquarters Auditorium, One Dauch Drive, Detroit, Michigan

Items of Business

(1)   Elect fourthree members of the Board of Directors to serve until the Annual Meeting of Stockholders in 2014;

2016;

(2)   Cast a non-binding advisoryAdvisory vote onto approve named executive compensation(“say-on-pay”);

officer compensation;

(3) Cast a non-binding advisory vote on the frequency ofsay-on-pay votes;

(4)   Ratify the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as AAM’s independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2011;2013; and
(5)

(4)   Attend to other business properly presented at the meeting.

Record Date

You may vote if you were an AAM stockholder at the close of business on March 3, 2011.5, 2013.

Meeting Admission

Admission may be limited to AAM stockholders as of the record date and holders of valid proxies. Please be prepared to present identification for admittance. Stockholders holding stock in brokerage accounts will need to bring a copy of a brokerage statement reflecting stock ownership as of the record date. Cameras and recording devices will not be permitted.

Proxy Materials

We have elected to furnish materials for the 20112013 Annual Meeting of Stockholders via the Internet. We believe the use of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)e-proxy rule will expedite stockholders’ receipt of the Proxy Statement, 2010 Annual Report andForm 10-K (proxy materials) and lower the costs of our annual meeting. On March 18, 2011,21, 2013, we mailed a notice of Internet availability (notice) to most stockholders containing instructions on how to access the proxy materials on the Internet instead of receiving paper copies in the mail.
Important Notice Regarding Internet Availability of Proxy Materials for the April 28, 2011May 2, 2013 Stockholder Meeting. The Proxy Statement and 20102012 Annual Report andForm 10-K are available atwww.envisionreports.com/AX.AXL.

By Order of the Board of Directors,

-s- STEVEN R. KEYES
Steven R. Keyes
Executive Director, Administration

LOGO

David E. Barnes

General Counsel & Legal and Secretary

March 18, 2011

21, 2013


20112013 ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

PROXY STATEMENT

TABLE OF CONTENTS

   Page
No.
No.
 

   2  

   2  

4

Nominees for Director

   5  

   612  
Returning Directors
13

   20  

   20  
31

   33  
35

Outstanding Equity Awards at December 31, 20102012

36
38

   39  

40

Pension Benefits

   41  
44

Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change of Control

   4346  
53
54

   55  

   5756  

SECURITY OWNERSHIP

59

Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance

   5860  

   5961  

   6062  

   6062  

   6163  

   6163  

   6264  


1


PROXY STATEMENT

Annual Meeting of Stockholders

To Be Held April 28, 2011May 2, 2013

INTERNET AVAILABILITY OF PROXY MATERIALS

American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc. (AAM or the Company) is providing proxy materials electronically via the Internet, instead of mailing printed copies of those materials to each stockholder. On March 18, 2011,21, 2013, we mailed to our stockholders (other than those who previously requestede-mail or paper delivery) a Notice of Availability of Proxy Materials containing instructions on how to access our proxy materials, including our proxy statement and 20102012 Annual Report onForm 10-K. The Notice of Availability of Proxy Materials provides instructions on how you may submit your proxy over the Internet or by telephone.

This electronic delivery process is designed to expedite stockholder receipt of proxy materials, lower the cost of the Annual Meeting of Stockholders (annual meeting), and conserve natural resources. However, if you would prefer to receive printed proxy materials, please follow the instructions included in the Notice of Availability of Proxy Materials. If you have previously elected to receive our proxy materials electronically, you will continue to receive these materials bye-mail unless you elect otherwise. If you received a printed copy of proxy materials by mail and would like to view future proxy materials over the Internet, you can do so by accessing the Internet atwww.envisionreports.com/AXL.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT VOTING AND THE ANNUAL MEETING

Why am I receiving this proxy statement?

You received these proxy materials because you owned shares of AAM common stock on March 3, 20115, 2013 (record date). AAM’s Board of Directors (Board) is soliciting your proxy to vote your shares at the annual meeting. By use of a proxy, you can vote whether or not you attend the meeting. This proxy statement includes information that we are required to provide to you and is designed to assist you in voting your shares.

Who is entitled to vote?

Holders of AAM common stock on the record date are entitled to one vote per share. You are a holder of record if your shares are held directly in your name with AAM’s transfer agent, Computershare Trust Company, N.A. If your shares are held in the name of a broker, bank, trustee or other record holder, you are a street name holder. If you hold shares in more than one account, each notice, proxyand/or voting instruction card you receive that has a unique control number must be voted so that all your shares are voted.

How do I vote?

You may vote by any of the following methods:

 

In person— attending the annual meeting and casting a ballot.

 

By mail— using the proxyand/or voting instruction card provided.

 

By telephone or viaover the Internet— following the instructions on your notice card, proxyand/or voting instruction card.

If you vote by telephone or viaover the Internet, have your notice card or proxyand/or voting instruction card available. The control number on your card is necessary to process your vote. A telephone or Internet vote authorizes the named proxies to vote in the same manner as if you marked, signed and returned the card by mail. If you hold shares in street name, refer to the voting instructions provided by your broker, bank, trustee or other record holder.


2


How many shares may vote at the meeting?

As of March 3, 2011,5, 2013, we had 75,301,26374,839,567 shares of common stock outstanding and entitled to vote. Under AAM’s by-laws, a majority of these shares must be present in person or by proxy to hold the annual meeting and take any action during the meeting.

Can I change my vote?

You may change your vote at any time before the annual meeting by:

• revoking it by written notice to AAM’s Secretary at the address on the cover of this proxy statement;
• voting in person at the annual meeting; or
• delivering a later-dated proxy vote by mail, telephone or the Internet.

revoking it by written notice to AAM’s Secretary at the address on the cover of this proxy statement;

voting in person at the annual meeting; or

delivering a later-dated proxy vote by mail, telephone or over the Internet.

What are the Board’s recommendations on how I should vote my shares?

The Board recommends that you vote your shares as follows:

Proposal 1 —

FORthe election of the four nominees with terms expiring at the 2014 annual meeting.
Proposal 2 —FORapproval, on an advisory basis, of the compensation of AAM’s named executive officers as described in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis, tables and related narrative (thesay-on-pay proposal).
Proposal 3 —FORapproval, on an advisory basis, of a one year frequency for future advisory votes onsay-on-pay.
Proposal 4 —FORratification of the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2011.
FOR the election of the three nominees with terms expiring at the 2016 annual meeting;

Proposal 2 —FOR approval, on an advisory basis, of the compensation of AAM’s named executive officers as described in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis, tables and related narrative; and

Proposal 3 —FOR ratification of the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2013.

What are my choices when voting?

Proposal 1 — You may vote for or withhold your vote on one or more of the nominees.

Proposal 2 —You may vote for or against the say on pay proposal, or you may abstain from voting your shares.
Proposal 3 —You may vote for a one year, two year, or three year frequency of say on pay proposals, or you may abstain from voting your shares.
Proposal 4 —You may vote for or against the proposal to ratify the appointment of the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, or you may abstain from voting your shares.

Proposal 2 — You may vote for or against the proposal to approve the compensation of our named executive officers, or you may abstain from voting your shares.

Proposal 3 — You may vote for or against the proposal to ratify the appointment of the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, or you may abstain from voting your shares.

What vote is required to approve each proposal?

Proposal 1 —A plurality of the votes cast to elect a director, which means that nominees with the most affirmative votes will be elected to fill the available seats.
Proposal 2 —An affirmative vote of a majority of the shares voted in person or by proxy must be cast in favor of the advisory vote to approve thesay-on-pay proposal.
Proposal 3 —The advisory vote on the frequency ofsay-on-pay proposals (every one, two, or three years) is a plurality vote. The Company will consider stockholders to have expressed a non-binding preference for the frequency option that receives the most favorable votes.
Proposal 4 —An affirmative vote of a majority of the shares voted in person or by proxy must be cast in favor of the ratification of the appointment of the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm.


3


Proposal 1 — A plurality of the votes cast to elect a director, which means that nominees with the most affirmative votes will be elected to fill the available seats.

Proposal 2 — An affirmative vote of a majority of the shares voted in person or by proxy must be cast in favor of the advisory vote to approve the compensation of AAM’s named executive officers.

Proposal 3 — An affirmative vote of a majority of the shares voted in person or by proxy must be cast in favor of the ratification of the appointment of the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm.

Proposals 2 and 3 are advisory votes only and, as discussed in more detail in each proposal, the voting results are not binding on AAM. However, with respect to proposal 2, the Board and the Compensation Committee will consider the outcome of the votesvote in making future determinations concerning the compensation of our named executive officers andofficers. With respect to proposal 3, the frequencyAudit Committee will consider whether the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP is in thesay-on-pay vote.

best interests of the Company if the appointment is not ratified.

Who will count the votes?

Representatives of Computershare Trust Company, N.A., AAM’s transfer agent, will count the votes and serve as our inspector of election. The inspector of election will attend the annual meeting.

What if I “withhold” my vote or “abstain”?

Votes withheld and abstentions will be counted as present for purposes of determining whether a majority of shares is present to establish a quorum and hold the annual meeting. Abstentions will not be counted in the tally of votes for or against any proposal. A withheld vote has the same effect as an abstention.

What if I do not vote and do not attend the annual meeting?

If you are a holder of record and you do not vote your shares at the annual meeting or by proxy, your shares will not be voted. If you sign and return your proxy card without specific voting instructions, your shares will be voted as recommended by the Board.

Under New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) rules, brokers have discretionary power to vote your shares only on “routine” matters. Brokers do not have discretionary power to vote your shares on “non-routine” matters. If you hold shares in street name, and you do not give your bank, broker, or other holder of record specific voting instructions for your shares, your record holder can only vote your shares on the ratification of the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm (proposal 4)3), a “routine” matter.

Without your specific instructions, your record holder cannot vote your shares on the election of directors the advisory vote on executive compensation(say-on-pay),and the advisory vote on the frequency ofsay-on-pay proposals.named executive officer compensation. For each of these matters, if you do not instruct your record holder how to vote, the record holder may not vote your shares. Shares not voted will be broker non-votes and will not be counted in determining the outcome of the vote for proposals 1 2 and 3.2. Broker non-votes will have no impact on the outcome of these proposals. We urge you to give your record holder voting instructions on each proposal being presented at the annual meeting.


4


Information not incorporated into this proxy statement.

The information on our website (www.aam.com) is not, and shall not be deemed to be, a part of this proxy statement nor, by reference or otherwise, incorporated into any other filings we make with the SEC.

PROPOSAL 1: ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

The Board proposes that the fourthree directors standing for re-election as Class IIIII directors, Richard E. Dauch, JamesElizabeth A. McCaslin, William P. Miller II,Chappell, Steven B. Hantler and Larry K. Switzer,John F. Smith, be elected to the Board for terms expiring at the annual meeting in 2014.

2016.

The Board is divided into three classes. Directors serve for staggered three-year terms. Class I and Class III each consists of four positions and Class II consists of three positions. The Board believes that the staggered election of directors helps to maintain continuity and ensures that a majority of directors at any given time will have in-depth knowledge of the Company.

The Board unanimously approved the nominations of our Class IIIII directors based on their outstanding achievements, special competencies and integrity. Each nominee brings a strong and unique background and set of skills to the Board. Collectively, the Board has high levels of competence and experience in a variety of areas, including manufacturing, engineering, finance, international business, management, restructuring, law, risk management, strategic business development and the global automotive industry. A summary of the principal occupation, professional background and specific qualificationsand/or skills ofthat qualify each nominee and returning director to serve on our Board is provided in the following pages of this proxy statement.

The Board unanimously recommends a vote FOR each of the nominees.


5


Nominees for Director

Class II — Directors to hold office until the 2016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders

LOGO

ELIZABETH A. CHAPPELL

Age 55

Elizabeth A. (Beth) Chappell has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Detroit Economic Club since 2002. Previously, she served as Executive Vice President, Corporate Communications & Investor Relations for Compuware Corporation. From 1995 to 2000, Ms. Chappell was President and Chief Executive Officer of a consulting firm she founded, The Chappell Group, Inc. For 16 years, Ms. Chappell held executive positions at AT&T. From 1999 to 2009, Ms. Chappell served on the Board of Directors of the Handleman Company. She also serves on a number of civic boards, including Brother Rice High School, Citizens Research Council, Detroit Regional Chamber, Airport Authority-Citizen’s Review Council, United Way Tocqueville Committee and Michigan Economic Development Corporation and has served on the Charter One Regional Advisory Board (Midwest) since 2001. Ms. Chappell is a former board member of the Karmanos Cancer Institute, Michigan Economic Growth Authority and Hospice of Michigan. Ms. Chappell’s demonstrated leadership skills, entrepreneurial business experience and service on various Boards of Directors enhance her contributions to the Board on matters of significance to AAM’s strategic business development.

Director since

2004

LOGO

STEVEN B. HANTLER

Age 60

Mr. Hantler is Director of Policy Initiatives for The Marcus Family Office. In this capacity, he advises Home Depot co-founder, Bernie Marcus, in the areas of government affairs, legal and regulatory policy, national security, free enterprise and higher education. Previously, he had a 27-year career with Chrysler Corporation, where he held positions as Assistant General Counsel, Manufacturing Group Counsel, and Senior Trial Attorney. Prior to joining Chrysler, Mr. Hantler was engaged in private law practice. Mr. Hantler is a Senior Fellow at the Pacific Research Institute and a member of the Legal Policy Advisory Board of the Washington Legal Foundation. Previously, Mr. Hantler served as Chair of the State Government Leadership Foundation, which educates state leaders on public policy issues, Chair of the Advisory Board of the National Judicial College, and on the Board of Directors of the New York University Law School Center for Labor and Employment. Mr. Hantler’s leadership experience and expertise in law, public relations and government affairs provide the Board with knowledge and insight in these areas of importance to the Board’s oversight of AAM’s global business growth and strategic initiatives.

Director since

2011

LOGO

JOHN F. SMITH

Age 62

Mr. Smith is principal of Eagle Advisors LLC, a consulting firm in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan that specializes in strategy development and performance improvement. From 2000 to 2010, Mr. Smith served in positions of increasing responsibility with General Motors Corporation in sales and marketing, product planning and corporate strategy, most recently as Group Vice President, Corporate Planning and Alliances. During his 42-year career in the automotive industry, Mr. Smith also served as General Manager of Cadillac Motor Car, President of Allison Transmission, and Vice President, Planning at General Motors International Operations in Zurich, Switzerland. In June 2012, Mr. Smith joined the Board of Directors of Smith Electric Vehicles (no relation), a manufacturer of all-electric commercial vehicles and the Advisory Board of VNG.CO, a developer of compressed natural gas refueling stations. In January 2013, Mr. Smith joined the Advisory Board of Palogix International, a provider of in-bound logistics and container management solutions. Mr. Smith also serves on the boards of several nonprofit organizations, including the National Advisory Board of Boy Scouts of America and St. John’s Providence Health System in Michigan. Mr. Smith’s extensive experience in manufacturing, finance, business development, international operations, sales and marketing, product development and mergers and acquisitions is aligned with AAM’s key business objectives, including continued global business growth and diversification.

Director since

2011

Class III — DirectorDirectors to hold office until the 2014 Annual Meeting of Stockholders

LOGO 
(RICHARD E. DAUCH)

RICHARD E. DAUCH

Age 68
70

Richard E. Dauch is Co-Founder & Executive Chairman of the Board & Chief Executive Officer of AAM and is also Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Board. He has beenserved as Chief Executive Officer from 1994 through August 2012 and has been a member of the Board since AAM began operations in March 1994. In October 1997, he was named Chairman of the Board of Directors. He was also President of AAM from March 1994 through December 2000. Prior to March 1994, he spent 12 years at Chrysler Corporation, where he established the just-in-time materials management system and the three-shift manufacturing vehicle assembly process. He is a retired officer from the Chrysler Corporation. Mr. Dauch’s last position at Chrysler, in 1991, was Executive Vice President of Worldwide Manufacturing. Mr. Dauch also served as Group Vice President of Volkswagen of America, where he established the manufacturing facilities and organization for the successful launch of the first major automotive transplant in the United States. Mr. Dauch has more than 4648 years of experience in the automotive industry. Mr. Dauch was the 2006 recipient of the Shien-Ming Wu Foundation Manufacturing Leadership Award. In 2005, he received the CEO Legend Award from Automation Alley. In 2003, he received the Harvard Business School of Michigan Business Statesman Award, the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and the Northwood University Outstanding Business Leader Award. In 1999, he was named the Michiganian of the Year byThe Detroit Newsand he was named the 1997 Manufacturer of the Year by the Michigan Manufacturers’ Association. In 1996, he was named Worldwide Automotive Industry Leader of the Year by the Automotive Hall of Fame. Mr. Dauch currently serves on the Board of Directors of the National Association of Manufacturers (N.A.M.), where he previously served as Chairman. In 2012, Mr. Dauch was inducted into IndustryWeek’s Manufacturing Hall of Fame. He has lectured extensively on the subject of manufacturing and authored the book,two books, Passion for Manufacturing,, which is distributedwas released in colleges1993, and universities globally andAmerican Drive, which was released in several languages.September 2012. The Board considers Mr. Dauch’s continuing leadership of the Board and the services he provides to AAM in his new role as criticalExecutive Chairman to be significant contributors to the achievement of the Company’s strategic goals. Mr. Dauch’s leadership and extensive expertise in the global automotive industry and manufacturing operations address the Company’s needsupports AAM’s business strategy to maintain and reinforce AAM’s unique operating culture as AAM expands internationally.build value for its key stakeholders.

  Director since

1994


6


LOGO 
(JAMES A. MCCASLIN)

JAMES A. McCASLIN

Age 62
64

Mr. McCaslin retired from Harley Davidson, Inc. in April 2010. Mr. McCaslin joined Harley Davidson in 1992 and held various senior executive leadership positions, including President and Chief Operating Officer of Harley-Davidson Motor Company, from 2001 to 2009. From 1989 to 1992, he held manufacturing and engineering positions with JI Case, a manufacturer of agricultural equipment. Previously, he held executive positions in manufacturing and quality with Chrysler Corporation, Volkswagen of America and General Motors Corporation, where he began his 40-year career in manufacturing. From 2003 to 2006, he served on the Board of Directors of Maytag Corporation. Mr. McCaslin has served on a number of civic boards, including Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee, Manufacturing Skill Standards Council and Kettering University. Mr. McCaslin’s extensive operational expertise and experience in multiple manufacturing industries in the original equipment and aftermarket product markets providesprovide the Board with a valued resource in geographic and product diversification, one of AAM’s key strategic objectives.

  Director since February 

2011

LOGO 
(WILLIAM P. MILLER)

WILLIAM P. MILLER II, CFA

Age 55
57

Mr. Miller, Chartered Financial Analyst, is the Senior Managing Director & Chief Financial Officer of Financial MarketingMarkets International, Inc., an international law and economics consulting firm. Since 2003, Mr. Miller has been a member of the Board of Directors of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, serving on the Audit Committee, Finance Committee and Market Regulation Oversight Committee. Since June 2011, Mr. Miller has served on the Board of Directors of the Dubai Mercantile Exchange, serving on the Compensation Committee and the Compliance Committee. Since December 2012, Mr. Miller has served on the Institutional Investor Advisory Board for Golub Capital, a U.S. asset manager with over $7 billion of assets under management. From 2005 to 2011, he was employed by the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System, where he served as Deputy Chief Investment Officer. Previously, he served as Senior Risk Manager for the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority and as an Independent Risk Oversight Officer and Chief Compliance Officer for Commonfund Group, an investment management firm for educational institutions. Mr. Miller also served as Director, Trading Operations and Asset Mix Management, with General Motors Investment Management Corp. and as a financial analyst with the U.S. Department of Transportation. Mr. Miller also was a member of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board’s Standing Advisory Group and a member of the Board of Directors of the Dubai International Financial Exchange. Mr. Miller’s expertise in finance, investments, risk management, compliance, international business, audit and accounting provides the Board with valuable guidance in assessing and managing risks and in fulfilling the Board’s financial oversight role.

  Director since

2005


7


LOGO 
(LARRY K. SWITZER)

LARRY K. SWITZER

Age 67
69

Larry K. Switzer retired as Chief Executive Officer of DANKA PLC, London, England, a global independent distributor of office equipment, in 2000. From 1994 to 1998, Mr. Switzer was Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Fruit of the Loom, Inc. Previously, he served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for Alco Standard Corporation and, from 1989 to 1992, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Mr. Switzer has also held senior executive positions at Bendix Corp., White Motor Corp. and Gencorp. As a former chief financial officer, Mr. Switzer serves as a valued resource to the Board in finance, accounting and tax matters and provides significant expertise and insightperspective in addressingthe Board’s oversight of the Company’s capital structure, liquidity needsmanagement and strategic business development.

  Director since

2005


8


Returning Directors
Class I — Directors to hold office until the 20122015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders

LOGO

 
(DAVID C. DAUCH)

DAVID C. DAUCH

Age 46
48

David C. Dauch is President & Chief OperatingExecutive Officer of AAM, a position he has held since September 2012. Since June 2008. Previously,2008, he served as President & Chief Operating Officer and previously served as Executive Vice President & COO.Chief Operating Officer. Mr. D.C. Dauch joined AAM in July 1995 and has served in positions of increasing responsibility. Prior to joining AAM, Mr. D.C. Dauch served in several positions at Collins & Aikman Products Company, where he received the President’s Award for leadership and innovation. Mr. D.C. Dauch also served on the Collins & Aikman Board of Directors from 2002 to 2007. Presently, he is a Board memberserves on the Boards of Directors of Business Leaders for Michigan, and serves on the Miami University Business AdvisoryDetroit Regional Chamber, the Great Lakes Council and the BoardBoy Scouts of Directors ofAmerica and the Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Michigan. Mr. D.C. Dauch also serves on the Miami University Business Advisory Council. Mr. D.C. Dauch’s day to day leadership as President & COOChief Executive Officer provides him with intimate knowledge of and responsibility for developing and implementing the Company’s operating and strategic objectives. Mr. D.C. Dauch was instrumental in leading AAM through the successful completion of its comprehensive multi-year restructuring plan and returning AAM to profitability in 2009 and fiscal year 2010. Mr. D.C. Dauch’s leadership of AAM’s global business and operations provides the Board with strategic vision and insight regarding AAM’s strategic plans for the future.

  Director since
2009

LOGO

 
(FOREST J. FARMER)

FOREST J. FARMER

Age 70
72

Forest J. Farmer has served as Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer & President of The Farmer Group, a holding company for fourthree technology and manufacturing corporations, since 1998. Mr. Farmer is the President of Trillium Teamologies, an IT solutions provider located in Royal Oak, Michigan. Mr. Farmer serves on the BoardsBoard of Directors of Saturn Electronics & Engineering, Inc., a global supplier of electronic components, engineering and other services to the automotive, appliance and communications industries. From 1997 to September 2011, Mr. Farmer was a member of the Board of Directors of The Lubrizol Corporation, and Saturn Electronics Corporation.serving on the Compensation Committee. In 1994, he retired from Chrysler Corporation after 26 years of service, which included six years as President of its Acustar automotive parts subsidiary. Through his senior management-level experience and his prior service on the Board and Compensation Committee of another public company, Mr. Farmer brings strong leadership skills, extensive U.S. automotive and manufacturing experience, and public company experience to our Board.

  Director since

1999


9


LOGO

 
(RICHARD C. LAPPIN)

RICHARD C. LAPPIN

Age 66
68

Richard C. Lappin is Executive Chairman of VOKAL Interactive, a maker of mobile applications for business. From 2007 to 2010, he served as Chairman of the Board & Chief Executive Officer of Clear Sky Power, an alternative energy company. Mr. Lappin retired in 2004 as Chairman of the Board of Haynes International, Inc. Previously, Mr. Lappin served as Senior Managing Director of The Blackstone Group L.P., where he was a member of the Private Equity Group from 1998 to 2002. He also helped monitor the operations of Blackstone Capital Partners portfolio companies and evaluated business strategy options. From 1989 to 1998, Mr. Lappin served as President of Farley Industries, which included West Point-Pepperell, Inc., Acme Boot Company, Inc., Tool and Engineering, Inc., Magnus Metals, Inc. and Fruit of the Loom, Inc. He also served as President & Chief Executive Officer of Doehler-Jarvis and Southern Fastening Systems, and he has held senior executive positions with Champion Spark Plug Company and RTE Corporation. Mr. Lappin’s experience as a CEO and his financial expertise providesprovide the Board with an important perspective in the areas of business strategy and organizational development, as well as the Company’ssound investment criteria, capital structure and liquidity needs.management.

  Director since

1999

LOGO

 
(THOMAS K. WALKER)

THOMAS K. WALKER

Age 70
72

Thomas K. Walker is Chairman of the Board & Chief Executive Officer of Lackawanna Acquisition Corporation and is the former President of Amcast Automotive, where from 1995 to 1999 he directed all activities for the $300 million automotive group. Previously, he held senior executive positions with ITT Automotive and Allied-Signal Automotive Catalyst Co. He also served in various manufacturing and engineering leadership positions with Volkswagen of America and with General Motors Corporation, where he began his 40-year50-year career in the automotive industry. Mr. Walker serves on the National Advisory Board for Michigan Technological University. Mr. Walker’s business acumen and extensive leadership experience in the automotive industry enablesenable him to provide our Board with expertise related to engineering, manufacturing operations and strategic business development. Mr. Walker’s service on all Board committees makes him an effective lead independent director for the Board.

  Director since

1999


10


Class II — Director to hold office until the 2013 Annual Meeting of Stockholders
(SALVATORE J. BONANNO)SALVATORE J. BONANNO, SR.
Age 70
Salvatore J. Bonanno, Sr. served as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Bonanno Enterprises L.L.C. from 2000 until 2007. The company provided discretionary capital, interim or transition management, and executive consulting services for industrial operations. While serving as President and Chief Executive Officer of Xymox Technologies, Inc. from 2003 to 2008, Mr. Bonanno led the company’s successful restructuring efforts. Mr. Bonanno served as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Grove Worldwide L.L.C., the President and Chief Operating Officer of Foamex International, and held many senior executive positions in his 30 year tenure with Chrysler Corporation. Mr. Bonanno currently serves on the Board of Directors of Xymox Technologies, Inc. and Waukesha Tool & Stamping L.L.C. and has served on the boards of numerous manufacturing and engineering companies. Mr. Bonanno’s leadership experience in international automotive business and expertise in engineering and automotive technology is aligned with AAM’s strategic objectives and is important to the Board’s oversight of these areas.
Director since 2009
(ELIZABETH A. CHAPPELL)ELIZABETH A. CHAPPELL
Age 53
Elizabeth A. (Beth) Chappell has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Detroit Economic Club since 2002. Previously, she served as Executive Vice President, Corporate Communications & Investor Relations for Compuware Corporation. From 1995 to 2000, Ms. Chappell was President and Chief Executive Officer of a consulting firm she founded, The Chappell Group, Inc. For 16 years, Ms. Chappell held executive positions at AT&T. From 1999 to 2009, Ms. Chappell served on the Board of Directors of the Handleman Company. She also serves on a number of civic boards, including Brother Rice High School, Citizens Research Council, Detroit Regional Chamber, Airport Authority-Citizen’s Review Council, United Way Tocqueville Committee and Michigan Economic Development Corporation. Ms. Chappell is a former board member of the Karmanos Cancer Institute, Michigan Economic Growth Authority and Hospice of Michigan. In 2009, Ms. Chappell was instrumental in convening The National Summit in Detroit, Michigan, a cross sector gathering of business, government, labor and academic leaders to develop and promote America’s competitiveness in a global economy. Ms. Chappell’s demonstrated leadership skills, entrepreneurial business experience and service on various Boards of Directors enhance her contributions to the Board on matters of significance to AAM’s strategic business development.
Director since 2004


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(DR. HENRY T. YANG)DR. HENRY T. YANG
Age 70
Dr. Henry T. Yang is the Chancellor at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he also serves as professor of mechanical engineering. Formerly the Dean of Engineering and Neil Armstrong Distinguished Professor in Aerospace Engineering at Purdue University, Dr. Yang is a nationally recognized expert in automotive and aerospace engineering. He holds a Ph.D. degree in engineering from Cornell University as well as five honorary doctorates and is a member of the National Academy of Engineering. He is Chairman of the Executive Committee of the American Association of Universities, Chairman of the Association of Pacific Rim Universities, Chairman of the Board of Thirty Meter Telescope, and a director of the Board of Kavli Foundation. Dr. Yang’s distinguished academic career and extensive knowledge and leadership in advanced technology provides the Board with a valuable perspective relative to AAM’s global business growth. Dr. Yang’s in-depth knowledge and expertise in engineering, science and technology and his leadership as Chairman of the Technology Committee provides the Board with a critical resource related to the Company’s advancements in technology.
Director since 2004


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CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Corporate Governance Guidelines

The Board has adopted Corporate Governance Guidelines that meet or exceed the requirements of the NYSE listing standards. AAM’s Corporate Governance Guidelines are available on our website athttp://www.aam.com/investors/corporategovernance.investor.aam.com.

Director Independence

AAM’s Corporate Governance Guidelines provide that at least a majority of the members of the Board and each member of the Audit Committee, Compensation Committee and Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee meet the independence criteria of the NYSE listing standards. In addition, the Board has established Director Independence Guidelines to assist in determining the independence of our directors for purposes of the NYSE independence standards. The Director Independence Guidelines are included in AAM’s Corporate Governance Guidelines, which are available on our website athttp://www.aam.com/investors/corporategovernanceinvestor.aam.com..

The Board reviews and determines, on the recommendation of the Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee, whether any director has a material relationship with the Company that would interfere with the exercise of independent judgment in carrying out the responsibilities of a director. When assessing materiality, the Board considers relevant facts and circumstances of which it is aware. No director qualifies as independent unless the Board determines that the director has no direct or indirect material relationship with the Company.

The Board has affirmatively determined that the following ninenominees and returning directors have no material relationships with AAM and are independent: Salvatore J. Bonanno, Sr., Elizabeth A. Chappell, Forest J. Farmer, Steven B. Hantler, Richard C. Lappin, James A. McCaslin, William P. Miller II, John F. Smith, Larry K. Switzer and Thomas K. Walker and Dr. Henry T. Yang.Walker. Richard E. Dauch,Co-Founder Chairman of the Board & CEO,Executive Chairman and David C. Dauch, President & COO,CEO, are not independent due to their employment with AAM. Mr. D.C. Dauch is the son of Mr. R.E. Dauch.

In making these director independence determinations, the Board considered certain business relationships that were found to be immaterial under applicable independence standards. Mr. Bonanno serves onMs. Chappell’s position as President & CEO of the BoardDetroit Economic Club, in light of and has a minority interest in a supplier that receives payments for sales made to AAM. Ms. Chappell is an officer of a non-profit organization that receivesthe sponsorship fees from AAM. PriorAAM pays to his election to AAM’s Board, Mr. McCaslin was an officer of Harley-Davidson, Inc., an AAM customer. He retired from Harley-Davidson in April 2010.

Each of these relationships arose in the ordinary course of business and existed before Mr. Bonanno, Ms. Chappell and Mr. McCaslin joined the Board. In addition, thethis non-profit organization. The annual amountsfees paid or received by AAM in connection with these relationships wereto the Detroit Economic Club are significantly below the threshold amount established under the NYSE independence standards and our Director Independence Guidelines. The applicable thresholdGuidelines, which is the greater of two percent of the outside entity’s annual gross revenues of the outside entity or $1 million. Accordingly, the Board determined that each relationship is immaterial and does not impair the independence of these directors.

Board Leadership Structure

The Board believes that as AAM’s co-founder, Richard E. Dauch,has the responsibility to determine the appropriate leadership structure for the Company, including whether it is uniquely qualifiedbest for the Company at a given point in time for the roles of Board Chairman and CEO to serve asbe separate or combined.

Historically, the positions of CEO and Chairman of the Board while holding the position of CEO.were held by Mr. R.E. Dauch. Mr. R.E. Dauch has been our CEO since he co-founded AAM in 1994 and has served as Chairman since 1997. TheAs a result of the Company’s multi-year CEO succession planning and leadership development process, as well as the Board’s ongoing review of its structure, the roles of Chairman and CEO were separated in September 2012.

Effective September 1, 2012, the Board benefits fromappointed David C. Dauch President & CEO. Concurrent with this structure throughappointment, AAM’s co-founder, Richard E. Dauch, was named Executive Chairman of the Board. Both the President & CEO and the Executive Chairman report solely to the Board. As Executive Chairman of the Board, Mr. R.E. Dauch’s contributions as a strong leader withDauch will continue to provide leadership to the Board based on his extensive knowledge of the global automotive industry and a unique commitmenthis prior experience serving as the Board’s Chairman & CEO. The separation of these roles permits Mr. D.C. Dauch to focus on leading AAM’s global business and day-to-day operations while providing the Board with strategic vision and insight regarding AAM’s strategic plans for the future.

In addition to the successcustomary procedural duties of the Chairman of the Board, the Executive Chairman has the following responsibilities:

Together with the President & CEO, represent the Company to external groups, including shareholders, customers, creditors, suppliers, local communities and governmental organizations and other key stakeholders;

Promote the Company as a technology and quality leader within the auto industry through public speaking, media appearances and global community affairs;

Develop relationships and maintain liaisons with universities that excel in the Company’s fields of both current and future business lines;

Develop relationships and maintain liaisons with other business leaders to share best practices in long-term planning;

Oversee and evaluate (but not direct) day-to-day operations;

Oversee the long-term strategy and vision of the Company he co-founded.and ensure the Board’s participation in strategic planning;

Discuss and review with the President & CEO issues facing the Company;

This

Evaluate the performance of the Company in achieving its goals and objectives;

Oversee and lead the development and implementation of a brand management program that promotes the Company as a technology and quality leader within the auto industry; and

Oversee and review succession planning.

Our Board leadership structure is further enhanced by independent director oversight. The Board is comprised of nine independent directors, including a lead director.an Independent directors and management have different perspectives and roles in strategy development. One of the key responsibilities


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of the Board is to develop strategic direction while holding management accountable for execution of its business plans. Our leadership structure provides the appropriate balance necessary to accomplish this objective and is the most effective leadership structure for the Board at this time.
The Board recognizes that no single leadership model is appropriate for a Board at all times. Accordingly, the Board may consider a different leadership structure, including a separation of the roles of CEO and Chairman, as appropriate, as the Company’s business and leadership continue to evolve.
Lead Director, and Executive Sessions
Thomas K. Walker was selecteda position currently held by Mr. Walker. The Independent Lead Director has the Board to serve as the lead director for all meetings of non-management directors held in executive session. Mr. Walker is an independent director and serves on every Board committee. The lead director’s responsibilities include presidingfollowing responsibilities:

Preside at executive sessions of the Board’s non-managementindependent directors, and acting as a liaison between the Chairman and the independent directors.

Non-management directors, all of whomwhich are independent, meet in executive session without AAM management presentheld at the end of each scheduled Board meeting.meeting;

Call special executive sessions of independent directors, as appropriate;

Serve on all standing committees required by NYSE listing standards and on the Executive Committee;

Serve as Chair of the Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee;

Serve as the liason between the independent directors and AAM’s Executive Chairman and President & CEO;

Inform the Executive Chairman and President & CEO of issues arising from executive sessions of the independent directors; and

With Board approval, retain outside advisors and/or consultants who report directly to the full Board on matters of interest to the full Board.

In September 2012, the Board approved the temporary assignment of Mr. Walker to serve as Non-Executive Chairman during the absence of the Executive Chairman for a medical procedure. Mr. Walker’s temporary assignment as Non-Executive Chairman and the compensation paid for such services are described inNarrative Description of Non-Employee Director Compensation.

Board Oversight of Risk Management

The Board, as a wholedirectly and also atthrough its committees, is responsible for overseeing the committee level oversees management of potential risks affecting the Company’s risks. TheCompany. In connection with our company-wide risk management process, the Board regularly reviews information provided by senior management regardingabout the Company’s strategic, operational, financial and compliance risks. In addition, the chairs of the Audit, Compensation, Nominating/Corporate Governance, Strategy and Technology Committees regularly report to the Board on the activities of their respective Committees, including matters related to risk.

The Audit Committee oversees management of financial risks and receives an annual report from management on the Company’s overall risk management structure and process.processes. The Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee manages risks associated with corporate governance and management succession planning. The Compensation Committee oversees risks related to AAM’s compensation programs. The Technology Committee oversees risks related to AAM’s product,

process and systems technology. The Strategy Committee oversees risk related to the development and implementation of the Company’s strategic plan. Additional review or reporting of specific risks is conducted as necessary or as requested by the Board or a Committee.

Stockholder Communication with the Board

Stockholders or other interested parties may communicate with the Board through the Secretary of AAM by mail at One Dauch Drive, Detroit, Michigan48211-1198 or bye-mail at AAMBoardofDirectors@aam.com.

The Board has instructed the Secretary to review all such communications and to exercise his discretion not to forward correspondence to the Board that is inappropriate, such as advertising and business solicitations, routine business matters and personal grievances. However, any director may at any time request the Secretary to forward any communication received by the Secretary on behalf of the Board.

Code of Business Conduct

AAM has adopted a Code of Business Conduct that is designed to assist all AAM associates, executive officers and members of the Board in conducting AAM’s business with the highest standards of ethics and integrity. AAM has also adopted a Code of Ethics forapplicable to our CEO, COO, CAO,Executive Chairman, CFO and other Senior Financial Officers (Code of Ethics). The Board annually reviews the Code of Business Conduct and makes updates the Code as appropriate. AAM’s Code of Business Conduct and Code of Ethics are available on our website athttp://www.aam.com/investors/corporategovernance.investor.aam.com.A written copy also may be obtained by any stockholder without charge upon request to the AAM


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Investor Relations Department by mail at One Dauch Drive, Detroit, Michigan48211-1198 or by email at investorrelations@aam.com.

Related Person Transactions Policy

The Board has adopted a policy and procedure for the review, approval and ratification of transactions involving AAM and “related persons” as defined in the policy. This policy supplements AAM’s other conflict of interest policies as set forth in AAM’s Code of Business Conduct. The Board has delegated to the Audit Committee the responsibility for reviewing, approving and ratifying all related person transactions in accordance with the policy.

For purposes of this policy, a related person transaction includes any financial transaction, arrangement or relationship or series of similar transactions, arrangements or relationships in which:

AAM is or is expected to be a participant;

• AAM is or is expected to be a participant;
• the amount involved exceeds $100,000; and
• a related person has or will have a direct or indirect material interest.

the amount involved exceeds $120,000; and

a related person has or will have a direct or indirect material interest.

However, a transaction between AAM and a related person is not subject to this policy if the transaction:

is available to all employees generally;

• is available to all employees generally;
• involves less than $5,000 when aggregated with all similar transactions; or
• involves compensation of an executive officer that is approved by the Compensation Committee.

involves less than $5,000 when aggregated with all similar transactions; or

involves compensation of an executive officer that is approved by the Compensation Committee.

A related person includes directors and executive officers and their immediate family members, stockholders owning more than five percent of the Company’s outstanding common stock as of the last completed fiscal year, and any entity owned or controlled by any one of these persons.

A related person transaction meeting the above criteria will be permitted only if the transaction is approved by the Audit Committee and is on terms comparable to those available to unrelated third parties. Any related person transaction involving a member of the Audit Committee must be presented to disinterested members of the full Board for review.

In considering a transaction, the Audit Committeeand/or the Board may consider the following factors, as applicable:

the Company’s business reasons for entering into the transaction;

• the Company’s business reasons for entering into the transaction;
• 

the alternatives to entering into a related person transaction;

• the potential for the transaction to lead to an actual or apparent conflict of interest and any safeguards imposed to prevent such actual or apparent conflict;
• the extent of the related person’s interest in the transaction; and
• whether the transaction is in the best interests of AAM.
Every director and executive officer is required to report any existing or contemplated related person transaction;

the potential for the transaction to AAM’s Executive Director, Administration & Legal, who also serves as lead to an actual or apparent conflict of interest and any safeguards imposed to prevent such actual or apparent conflict;

the Company’s Secretary. In addition, extent of the related person’s interest in the transaction; and

whether the transaction is in the best interests of AAM.

AAM’s directors and executive officers complete annual questionnaires designed to elicit information about potential related person transactions. TheIn addition, our directors and executive officers are required to report any existing or contemplated related person transaction to the Company Secretary, who also serves as AAM’s General Counsel.

During fiscal year 2012, the Company did not engage in any reportable related person transactions during fiscal year 2010.transactions. As of the date of this proxy statement, no reportable related person transaction has been brought to the attention of the Secretary, the Audit Committee or the Board.

Board Committee Composition

Directors are expected to attend all Board meetings, meetings of the committees on which they serve and stockholder meetings. During 2010,2012, all directors attended 100more than 75 percent of the meetings of the Board and the committees on which they served and theserved. The 2012 annual meeting of stockholders.


15

stockholders was attended by all but one of our directors.


The Board held four regularly scheduled meetings and two special meetings during 2010.2012. The following table shows the membership of the Board’s committees during 20102012 and the number of committee meetings held during 2010.
2012.

COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP IN 20102012

                
         Nominating/
      
         Corporate
      
   Audit
  Compensation
  Governance
  Executive
  Technology
Name of Director  Committee  Committee  Committee  Committee  Committee
Richard E. Dauch           Chairman   
                
Salvatore J. Bonanno, Sr.               X
                
Elizabeth A. Chappell     X         
                
David C. Dauch(1)
               
                
Forest J. Farmer     Chairman  X  X   
                
Richard C. Lappin        X     X
                
James A. McCaslin(2)
               
                
William P. Miller II  Chairman           X
                
Larry K. Switzer  X  X         
                
Thomas K. Walker  X  X  Chairman  X  X
                
Dr. Henry T. Yang              Chairman
                
No. of Meetings in 2010
  4  6  4  1  3
                

Name of Director Audit
Committee
 Compensation
Committee
 Nominating/
Corporate
Governance
Committee
 Executive
Committee
 Technology
Committee
 Strategy
Committee

Richard E. Dauch

       Chairman   X

Salvatore J. Bonanno, Sr.

         X  

Elizabeth A. Chappell

   X        

David C. Dauch

       X   X

Forest J. Farmer

   Chairman X X    

Steven B. Hantler

   X        

Richard C. Lappin

     X   X Chairman

James A. McCaslin

         X X

William P. Miller II

 Chairman       X  

John F. Smith(1)

 X         X

Larry K. Switzer

 X X       X

Thomas K. Walker(2)

 X X Chairman X    

Dr. Henry T. Yang

         Chairman  

No. of Meetings in 2012

 4 5 6 2 3 2

(1)Mr. D. C. Dauch was appointed to the Executive Committee effective February 8, 2011.
(2)Mr. McCaslin joined the Board andSmith was appointed to the Technology Committee effective February 8, 2011.6, 2013.

(2)Mr.Walker’s service on the Technology Committee ended effective April 26, 2012.

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee provides assistance toassists the Board in fulfilling its oversight responsibility with respect to:

the quality and integrity of our financial statements;

our compliance with legal and regulatory requirements;

our independent auditors’ qualifications and independence; and

the performance of our internal audit function and independent auditors.

The Audit Committee operates under a written charter that is available on AAM’s website athttp://www.aam.com/investors/corporategovernance.investor.aam.com.

The Board has determined that alleach Audit Committee members serving during 2010 aremember is independent, is a “non-employee director” within the meaning of Rule 16b-3 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and is financially literate under applicable NYSE listing standards. The Audit Committee has determined that Mr. Miller, Mr. Smith and Mr. Switzer alsoeach qualify as an audit committee financial expertsexpert as defined by SEC rules.

Compensation Committee

The Compensation Committee is responsible for the following:

Establishing and reviewing AAM’s compensation philosophy and programs with respect to our executive officers;

• Establishing and reviewing AAM’s compensation philosophy and programs with respect to our executive officers;
• 

Approving executive officer compensation with a view to support AAM’s business strategies and objectives;


16

Approving corporate goals and objectives for executive officer compensation and evaluating executive officer performance in light of these criteria;


• Approving corporate goals and objectives for executive officer compensation and evaluating executive officer performance in light of these criteria, in consultation with the CEO (in the case of our other executive officers) and with input from other independent directors (in the case of the CEO);
• Recommending to the Board the approval, amendment and termination of incentive compensation and equity-based plans and certain other compensation matters;
• Overseeing the preparation of the Compensation Discussion and Analysis for inclusion in our annual proxy statement; and
• Producing the Compensation Committee Report for inclusion in our annual proxy statement.

Recommending incentive compensation and equity-based plans to the Board;

Overseeing management’s risk assessment of the Company’s policies and practices regarding its compensation programs for executive officers and other associates;

Overseeing the preparation of the Compensation Discussion and Analysis for inclusion in our annual proxy statement; and

Producing the Compensation Committee Report for inclusion in our annual proxy statement.

The Compensation Committee operates under a written charter that is available on our website athttp://www.aam.com/investors /corporategovernance.investor.aam.com. In February 2013, Compensation Committee Charter was amended to comply with recently-adopted NYSE listing standards regarding the independence of the Compensation Committee and its advisors. In accordance with our Corporate Governance Guidelines, the Compensation Committee is also responsible for recommending non-employee director compensation and benefits for approval by the Board.

Each member of the Compensation Committee is independent, is a “non-employee director” within the meaning of Rule 16b-3 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and is an “outside director” within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Risk Assessment of Compensation Policies and Practices

In 2011,2012, AAM management conducted a risk assessment of the Company’s compensation policies and practices relating to AAM’s compensation programs for executive officers and other associates on a global basis.associates. The process used by management to conduct the risk assessment was approved by the Compensation Committee. The risk assessment considered, among other things, AAM’s annual and long-term incentive programs and pay mix, performance measures used to calculate payouts, and pay philosophy and governance. Based on this risk assessment and other factors, management concluded that the Company’s compensation policies and practices do not create risks that are reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on the Company. The Compensation Committee agreed with management’s conclusion.

Role of Management in Compensation Decisions

The Compensation Committee is responsible for making compensation decisions relative to executive officers. However, in making its decisions, the Compensation Committee seeks and considers input from senior management. Since management has direct involvement with and an in-depth knowledge of the business strategy, goals and performance of the Company, certain executive officers play an important role in the executive compensation decision-making process. Senior management participates in the Compensation Committee’s activities in the following specific respects:

The Executive Chairman and President & CEO provide the Compensation Committee with their evaluations of the performance of the Company’s executive officers, including the other named executive officers (NEOs). The President & CEO and Vice President, Human Resources make compensation recommendations for executive officers, including base salary levels and the amount and mix of incentive awards.

• The CEO reports to the Committee with respect to his evaluation of the performance of the Company’s executive officers, including the other named executive officers (NEOs). Together with the President & COO and the Human Resources department head, the CEO makes compensation recommendations for these individuals, including base salary levels and the amount and mix of incentive awards.
• The CEO, the President & COO, the CFO and the Human Resources department head develop recommended

The President & CEO, the Executive Vice President & CFO and the Vice President, Human Resources develop and recommend performance objectives and targets for AAM’s incentive compensation programs. The Human Resources Department also assists the Chairman of the Committee in developing meeting agendas and manages the preparation and distribution of pre-meeting informational materials on the matters to be considered.

• The CEO, the President & COO, the CFO and the Human Resources department head regularly attend Committee meetings. Management generally does not attend the executive session of the Committee. However, there are times when the Committee requests that certain members of management, including the CEO, the President & COO and the Human Resources department head, be present for all or a portion of an executive session.
• The CEO, President & COO, the CFO and the Human Resources department head recommend long-term incentive grants for executive officers, other than the CEO, for approval by the Committee.


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The Vice President, Human Resources assists the Chairman of the Compensation Committee in developing meeting agendas and manages the preparation and distribution of pre-meeting informational materials on the matters to be considered.


The Executive Chairman, President & CEO, Executive Vice President & CFO and the Vice President, Human Resources regularly attend Compensation Committee meetings. Management generally does not attend the executive session of the Compensation Committee. On occasion, the Compensation Committee may request certain members of management to attend all or a portion of an executive session.

Role of Compensation Consultant

The Compensation Committee has retained Meridian Compensation Partners, LLC (Meridian) as its independent compensation consultant. Meridian provides independent advice and ongoing recommendations on compensation matters related to the CEO, otherour executive officers and non-employee directors, including:

• Provide independent input for the Committee’s decision-making with respect to executive compensation;
• Provide independent input related to non-employee director compensation;
• Prepare competitive market data, including current compensation trends, as a reference for the Committee to consider in evaluating compensation for executive officers.
directors. Meridian also provides the Committee with competitive market data, peer group analyses and updates on compensation trends and regulatory developments.

In the course of fulfilling its responsibilities, Meridian may communicate directly with the Chairman of the Compensation Committee. Meridian also meets with management to gather information, prepare materials, and review proposals to be made to the Compensation Committee.

During 2010, Meridian provides no other services to the Company other than advice with respect to director and executive officer compensation and has no other direct or indirect business relationships with the Company of any of its subsidiaries or affiliates.

The Compensation Committee determined that Meridian is independent of management and that the services provided by Meridian to the Compensation Committee engaged Meridiando not give rise to conduct a market studyany conflicts of non-employee director compensationinterest. In written correspondence to determine the competitiveness of AAM’s total compensation program for non-employee directors. Meridian was instructed to compare AAM’s non-employee director pay levels and design practices against that of the peer group established by the Compensation Committee, for evaluating the competitiveness of AAM’s executive compensation programs. This peer group is shown in theMarket Analysis and BenchmarkingsectionMeridian provided detailed information addressing each of the CD&A. Based onsix independence factors adopted by the results of Meridian’s analysis,SEC and incorporated into the NYSE Corporate Governance Listing Standards. In this correspondence and in communications with the Compensation Committee, Meridian affirmed its independence and the Board approved changes to non-employee directorthat of its partners, consultants and employees who service AAM’s Compensation Committee on executive compensation for 2011 as described in2011 Non-employee Director Compensationbelow.

matters.

Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee

The Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee’s primary responsibilities are to:

Identify qualified individuals to serve on the Board and committees;

Review our Corporate Governance Guidelines and Code of Business Conduct and recommend changes as appropriate; and

• Identify qualified individuals to serve on the Board and committees;
• Review our Corporate Governance Guidelines and Code of Business Conduct and recommend changes as appropriate; and
• Oversee and approve the process for succession planning for the CEO and other executive officers.

Oversee and approve the process for succession planning for the CEO and other executive officers.

The Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee operates under a written charter that is available on our website athttp://www.aam.com/investors/corporategovernance.investor.aam.com. Each member of the Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee is independent and is a “non-employee director” within the meaning of Rule 16b-3 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

Selection Process for Director Nominees.    In consultation with the Executive Chairman ofand the Board,President & CEO, the Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee identifies, evaluates and recommends potential candidates for membership on the Board. The Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee conducts necessary and appropriate inquiries into the backgrounds and qualifications of the candidates and considers questions of independence and possible conflicts of interest. Based on the Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee’s evaluation, candidates who meet the Board’s criteria may receive further consideration, which may include interviews with the Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee and other directors. The Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee then submits its recommendations for nominees to the Board for approval. Pursuant to AAM’s bylaws, the Board may establish the size of the Board by resolution, provided there is a minimum of three members.

Before the Board nominates an incumbent director for re-election by our stockholders, the incumbent director is evaluated by the Nominating/Corporate Governance Committeeand/or the Board. This evaluation is based on, among other things, theeach incumbent director’s meeting attendance record and contributions to the activities of the Board.

The Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee considers recommendations of potential candidates from current directors of our Board, our CEO and our stockholders. Mr. R.E. Dauch referred current


18


director nominee, James A. McCaslin, for consideration by the Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee and the Board based upon Mr. McCaslin’s extensive operational experience in multiple manufacturing industries in the original equipment and aftermarket product markets. After consideration of Mr. McCaslin’s qualifications, and based on the recommendation of the Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee, the Board added Mr. McCaslin to the Board effective February 8, 2011 to fill a new Class III position.
Director Qualifications.    AAM’s Corporate Governance Guidelines provide the qualifications for Board membership. Candidates for director nominees to the AAM Board are reviewed in consideration of the current composition of the Board, the operating requirements of the Company and the interests of stockholders. Although specific qualifications may vary from time to time, desired qualities and characteristics include:

High ethical character and shared values with AAM;

• High ethical character and shared values with AAM;
• Loyalty to AAM and concern for its success and welfare;
• High-level leadership experience and achievement at a policy-making level in business or in educational or professional activities;
• Knowledge of issues affecting AAM;
• The ability to contribute special competencies to Board activities, such as financial, technical, international business or other expertise, or industry knowledge;
• Willingness to apply sound, independent business judgment;
• Awareness of a director’s vital role in AAM’s good corporate citizenship and corporate image; and
• Sufficient time and availability to effectively carry out a director’s duties.

Loyalty to AAM and concern for its success and welfare;

High-level leadership experience and achievement at a policy-making level in business or in educational or professional activities;

Knowledge of issues affecting AAM;

The ability to contribute special competencies to Board activities, such as financial, technical, international business or other expertise, or industry knowledge;

Willingness to apply sound, independent business judgment;

Awareness of a director’s vital role in AAM’s good corporate citizenship and corporate image; and

Sufficient time and availability to effectively carry out a director’s duties.

The Board as a whole should reflect the appropriate balance of knowledge, experience, skills, expertise and diversity that, when taken together, will enhance the quality of the Board’s deliberations and decisions. Although the Board has no formal policy regarding diversity, the Board believes that diversity is an essential element of Board effectiveness. In this context, diversity is defined broadly to include differences in background, skills, education, experience, gender, race, national origin and culture.

For director candidates recommended by stockholders, the Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee follows the procedures described below inOther Matters, Stockholder Proposals for 20122014 Annual Meeting. The Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee will evaluate candidates recommended by stockholders using substantially the same criteria as it considers in evaluating director candidates recommended by our Board members, Executive Chairman or President & CEO.

Succession Planning.    The Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee is responsible for overseeing the Company’s succession planning process for executive officers and other key executive positions at AAM. In performing this role, the Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee monitors and approves management’s succession planning process and actions and, with respect to the CEO, makes recommendations to the full Board for approval.

The Board has primary responsibility for CEO succession planning and develops both long-term and contingency plans for CEO succession. In September 2012, the Board implemented its multi-year CEO succession plan with the appointment of Mr. D.C. Dauch as President & CEO. The Company’s co-founder and former CEO, Mr. R.E. Dauch, assumed the role of Executive Chairman of the Board. The Company’s long-term and ongoing succession planning program is designed to support effective senior leadership development and succession in a manner that positions AAM to achieve its strategic, operating and financial performance goals, and enhance stockholder value.

Executive Committee

The Executive Committee exercises the authority of the Board during the intervals between Board meetings and does not meet on a regular basis. Its members are identified in theCommittee Membership in 20102012table.

Technology Committee

The Technology Committee oversees and provides advice to AAM regarding AAM’s product, process and systems technology. Its members are identified in theCommittee Membership in 20102012table.


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Strategy Committee

The Strategy Committee oversees the development and implementation of AAM’s strategic plan and provides advice to management regarding specific strategic opportunities. Its members are identified in theCommittee Membership in 2012 table.

COMPENSATION OF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

Compensation Discussion and Analysis

Executive Summary

In 2010, general economic conditions began to stabilize, credit markets improved

Effective September 1, 2012, AAM’s Board appointed David C. Dauch as President & Chief Executive Officer, concurrent with the appointment of Richard E. Dauch as Co-Founder & Executive Chairman. Mr. D.C. Dauch most recently served as AAM’s President & Chief Operating Officer since June 2008 and U.S. domestic automotive production levels increased. The U.S. Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate (SAAR)has been a member of sales increasedthe Board since 2009. He has held positions of increasing responsibility since he joined AAM in 2010 for1995. Mr. R.E. Dauch has served as CEO since he co-founded the first timeCompany in three years to 11.6 million units1994 and as Chairman of the U.S. domestic automotive industry began to recover from the severe downturn it had suffered. Over the past several years, AAM’s senior management team implemented a restructuring plan that resulted in a cost structure aligned with current and projected levels of customer demand and market requirements. This plan has proven successful, yielding significant, permanent structural cost reductions, which has driven down our operating breakeven level.Board since 1997. These actions positioned AAMreflect the Board’s ongoing commitment to significantly improve profitabilitysuccession planning and free cash flowdevelopment of AAM’s leadership team.

On April 26, 2012, the Company’s stockholders approved the 2012 Omnibus Incentive Plan and authorized up to 5 million shares for issuance as equity-based compensation under the plan. This action by our stockholders enabled the Compensation Committee to include equity-based incentives as a component of the Company’s long-term incentive compensation program for executive officers, which we believe strengthens the alignment of interests between our executive officers and our stockholders. Since the expiration of AAM’s previous stock incentive plan in 2010.

January 2009, the Company has been unable to grant equity-based awards as part of its compensation program. Upon approval of AAM’s 2012 Omnibus Incentive Plan, the Compensation Committee increased the stock ownership requirements for executive officers.

Our executive compensation program reflects an externally competitive compensation structure based on a comprehensive market study of executive compensation programs in AAM’s comparative peer group. The program includes a mix of base salaries and target annual incentive opportunities and long-term incentive opportunities. The performance goals under the compensation incentive programs are established to reward achievement of the Company’s goals and objectives. In 2012, the Company did not perform as expected against its established goals due to increased costs associated with plant closures, global launch activity, lower capacity utilization and labor inefficiencies. As a result, the 2012 payouts for annual and cash-based long-term incentives reflect the lower levels of Company performance pursuant to the metrics established by the Compensation Committee.

When setting compensation for 2013 and in determining compensation policies, the Compensation Committee took into account the favorable results of the stockholder advisory vote on executive compensation in April 2012. Our stockholders approved the compensation of our named executive officers, with approximately 95% of votes cast in favor of our say-on-pay proposal. Accordingly, the Compensation Committee has continued to apply the executive compensation philosophy and objectives described below. The Compensation Committee will continue to consider the outcome of the Company’s say-on-pay votes when making future compensation decisions for our named executive officers. In 2010, our annual incentives were based exclusively on achievement

Named Executive Officers

For purposes of net operating cash flow goals. Our current long-term incentive program for executive officers is a cash-based program as a result of AAM not having an equity plan available for new equity-based awards. We use total shareholder return (TSR)this Compensation Discussion and earnings before interest, taxes, depreciationAnalysis and amortization (EBITDA) as the performance measures for long-term incentive awards.

tables and narrative disclosures that follow, Named Executive Officers (NEOs) refer to the following individuals:

David C. Dauch, President & Chief Executive Officer;

Michael K. Simonte, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer;

Richard E. Dauch, Co-Founder & Executive Chairman;

John J. Bellanti, Executive Vice President, Worldwide Operations; and

Norman Willemse, Vice President, Metal Formed Products Business Unit.

Executive Compensation Philosophy and Objectives

The Compensation Committee is responsible for establishing and reviewing the overall compensation philosophy of the Company. The Compensation Committee believes that the compensation paid to executives should be structured to provide AAM executives with meaningful rewards, while maintaining alignment with stockholder interests, corporate values and management initiatives. In addition, the annual compensation limit of $3 million for any executive officer and other restrictions contained in the 2009 Settlement and Commercial Agreement we entered into with GM (2009 Settlement and Commercial Agreement) will be considered by the Committee in order to ensure compliance with the agreement as long as it remains in effect.

The Compensation Committee believes that AAM’s executive compensation program should consist of a mix of base salary, annual incentive compensation, long-term incentive compensation, perquisites and other personal benefits. One of the key objectives of establishing a mix of base salaries, annual incentive and long-term incentive compensation is to have a significant portion of total compensation be performance based and contingent upon the achievement of stated Company performance goals.

In an effort to more closely align the objectives of the philosophy to market competitive practices, the Compensation Committee approvedhas established stated target percentile goals (compared to our comparative peer group) for each component of pay.pay as set forth below underMarket Analysis and Benchmarking. The following pay percentile goals are generally used as a guide to help set compensation levels for the NEOs, excluding the CEO (whoseExecutive Chairman. The Executive Chairman’s compensation is determined under his employment agreement, as described below). In addition to these goals, theagreement.

The Compensation Committee also considers other factors in setting compensation levels for the NEOs, including, among other things, individual performance, succession planning and the specific needsrequirements of the position for the Company.

Pay Component
Target Percentile Goal
Base Salary50th Percentile
Target Annual IncentiveBetween 50th and 75th Percentiles
Long-Term IncentivesBetween 50th and 75th Percentiles
These percentile goals were established based on the Committee’s objective that base salaries should be consistent with market salaries at the 50th percentile. The percentile goals for annual


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incentives and long-term incentives were set between the 50th percentile and the 75th percentile to enableas determined by the Company from time to reward executive performance at a rate slightly above average in order to compete for executive talent. These pay percentile goals were implemented over a two-year period that concluded in 2010.
time.

Compensation Objectives.    The following fundamental objectives are considered in determining compensation programs and pay levels.

Compensation and benefit programs should appropriately reflect the size and financial resources of our Company in order to maintain long-term viability. These programs should be market-based to be competitive relative to the compensation paid to similarly situated executives in our peer group.

Compensation and benefit programs should attract, motivate and retain experienced executives who are vital to our short-term and long-term success, profitability and growth. AAM makes an effort to remain competitive by targeting competitive pay levels based on the Company’s compensation philosophy with consideration of the specific business environment and other market influences.

• Compensation and benefit programs should appropriately reflect the size and financial resources of our Company in order to maintain long-term viability. These programs should be increasingly market-based (rather than legacy) to be competitive relative to the compensation paid to similarly situated executives in our peer group.
• Compensation and benefit programs should attract, motivate and retain experienced executives who are vital to our short-term and long-term success, profitability and growth. AAM makes an effort to remain competitive by targeting competitive pay levels based on the Company’s Compensation Philosophy with consideration of the specific business environment and other market influences.
• Compensation and benefit programs should reward Company and individual performance. Our programs should strive to deliver competitive compensation for exceptional individual and Company performance as compared to companies in our peer group. As associates progress to higher levels in the Company and assume key leadership positions, a greater portion of their compensation should be linked to Company performance and stockholder returns. Company performance is measured against financial and operational objectives and stockholder return.
• Compensation and benefit programs should foster the long-term focus required for success in the global automotive industry. We believe that long-term incentive compensation will motivate executive officers to deliver long-term value to our stockholders. Executives at higher levels should have a greater proportion of their compensation tied to longer-term performance because they are in a better position to influence longer-term results.
• Executive officers should be AAM stockholders. Stock ownership aligns our executive officers’ interests with those of stockholders and reinforces the importance of making sound long-term decisions. AAM’s executive officers are required to maintain a certain level of stock ownership based on their position.
• The objectives of rewarding performance and retention should be balanced.In periods of downturns in Company performance, particularly when driven by industry events or customer decisions, our compensation programs should continue to ensure that high-achieving, marketable executives remain motivated and committed to AAM. This principle is essential to our effort to encourage our strongest leaders to remain with AAM for long and productive careers.
• Compensation and benefit programs should be fair in consideration of each executive’s level of responsibility and contribution to AAM.While the overall structure of compensation and benefit programs should be broadly similar across the Company, individual pay levels and benefit packages will necessarily reflect differences in job responsibilities, geography and marketplace considerations.

Compensation and benefit programs should reward Company and individual performance. Our programs should strive to deliver competitive compensation for exceptional individual and Company performance as compared to companies in our peer group. As associates progress to higher levels in the Company and assume key leadership positions, a greater portion of their compensation should be linked to Company performance and stockholder returns. Company performance is measured against financial and operational objectives and stockholder return.

Compensation and benefit programs should foster the long-term focus required for success in the global automotive industry. We believe that long-term incentive compensation will motivate executive officers to deliver long-term value to our stockholders. Executives who are in positions to influence longer-term results should have a greater proportion of their compensation tied to longer-term performance.

Executive officers should be AAM stockholders. Stock ownership aligns our executive officers’ interests with those of stockholders and reinforces the importance of making sound long-term decisions. AAM’s executive officers are required to maintain a certain level of stock ownership based on their position.

The objectives of rewarding performance and retention should be balanced. Our compensation programs should continue to ensure that high-achieving, marketable executives remain motivated and committed to AAM. This principle is essential to our effort to encourage our strongest leaders to remain with AAM for long and productive careers.

Compensation and benefit programs should be fair in consideration of each executive’s level of responsibility and contribution to AAM. While the overall structure of compensation and benefit programs should be broadly similar across the Company, individual pay levels and benefit packages will reflect differences in job responsibilities, geography and marketplace considerations.

Market Analysis and Benchmarking

Comparative Peer Group.

A peer group of 38 broad industrial manufacturing companies drawn from a broad array of industries, including 10 automotive suppliers, werewas identified by Meridian, the Compensation Committee’s independent compensation consultant, database, for consideration by the Compensation Committee to help assess competitive pay levels and to provide data for 2010 and 2011 pay decisions. The peer group was selected to be representative of a broad industrial sector in which


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AAM competes for executive talent. The criteria used to assess the market and to select the comparative peer group included:

Operating/Industry Competitors — Companies with which we compete for the sale of products and services;

• Operating/Industry Competitors — Companies with which we compete for the sale of products and services;
• Labor Market Competitors — Companies with which we compete for executive talent;
• Competitors for Capital — Companies with which we compete for investment dollars and against which investment performance is evaluated; and
• Revenue Size — Companies with revenues within a relevant range.

Labor Market Competitors — Companies with which we compete for executive talent;

Competitors for Capital — Companies with which we compete for investment dollars and against which investment performance is evaluated; and

Revenue Size — Companies with revenues within a broad range.

Based on the foregoing criteria, the Compensation Committee approvedestablished the following comparative peer group to be used for 2010 and 2011 pay decisions:

A. O. Smith Corporation

 Joy Global

Kennametal Inc.

ArvinMeritor Inc. 

Ball Corporation

 Kennametal Inc.

Lear Corporation

Ball Corporation

BorgWarner Inc.

 Lear Corporation

Meritor Inc.

BorgWarner Inc. 

Brady Corporation

 

Navistar International

Brady

Cameron International Corporation

 

Owens-Illinois, Inc.

Cameron International Corporation

Cummins Inc.

 

PACCAR Inc.

Cummins Inc. 

Dana Corporation

 

Polaris Industries Inc.

Dana Corporation

Donaldson Company, Inc.

 

Rockwell Automation

Donaldson Company, Inc. 

Dover Corporation

 

Sauer-Danfoss Inc.

Dover

Eaton Corporation

 

Sonoco Products Company

Eaton

Federal Signal Corporation

 

Terex Corporation

Federal Signal

Federal-Mogul Corporation

 

Thomas & Betts Corporation

Federal-Mogul Corporation

Fleetwood Enterprises, Inc.

 

The Timken Company

Fleetwood Enterprises, Inc. 

Flowserve Corporation

 

Trinity Industries, Inc.

Flowserve Corporation

FMC Technologies

 

TRW Automotive Holdings Corp.

FMC Technologies

Genuine Parts Company

 

USG Corporation

Genuine Parts

Harley-Davidson Motor Company

 

Valmont Industries, Inc.

Harley-Davidson Motor

Ingersoll-Rand Company

 

Visteon Corporation

Ingersoll-Rand Company

Joy Global Inc.

 

Woodward Governor Company

The Compensation Committee relied on the market data analysis usedperformed by Meridian in determiningOctober 2010 for setting 2011 and 2012 executive officer compensation. Meridian’s market analysis in 2010

was considered adequate for setting 2012 pay based on Meridian’s guidance to the Compensation Committee that levels of compensation levelsamong our comparative peer group had not changed significantly from 2010 to 2012. The market data was revenue size adjusted using regressed market valuesvalues.

Our general practice is to set compensation at market competitive levels based on the responsibilities, expertise and experience of each NEO as well as individual and Company performance. The total compensation for each relevant position.

NEO (other than the Executive Chairman) and each pay component described below are compared to pay levels of executives holding similar positions at companies in our comparative peer group. The target percentile goals for each pay component are as follows:

Pay ComponentTarget Percentile Goal

Base Salary

50th  Percentile

Annual Incentives

Between  50th and 75th Percentiles

Long-Term Incentives

Between 50th and 75th Percentiles

The percentile goals for annual incentives and long-term incentives were set between the 50th percentile and the 75th percentile to enable the Company to reward executive performance at a rate above average in order to drive above average performance and to compete for executive talent.

Competitor Peer Group.    The Compensation Committee also considers, from time to time, publicly available information regarding companies in our competitor peer group in establishing certain executive compensation benchmarks, targets and performance levels. As disclosed in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, our competitor peer group consists of Autoliv Inc., BorgWarner Inc., Dana Corporation, Lear Corporation, Magna International Inc., Meritor, Inc., Tenneco Automotive Inc. and Visteon Corporation.

Tally Sheets

Annually, the Compensation Committee reviews compensation tally sheets for each executive officer, including the NEOs. The tally sheets, which are prepared by management, provide a summary of the current amounts of each component of pay, including a historical review of prior long-term incentive grants. The tally sheets also provide a summary of the potential payouts and benefits upon various termination events. The elements and calculations reviewed are substantially similar to the information provided for each NEO inPotential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Controlbelow. The Compensation Committee did not change the NEOs’ compensation based on its review of this information. The Committee expects to review updated tally sheets on an annual basis.

Components of the AAM Compensation Program

The primary components of AAM’s executive compensation program are base salary, annual incentives, long-term incentives, and benefits and perquisites. The discussion below of the elements of compensation applies to the NEOs, other than Mr. R. E. Dauch, our CEO. Mr. R. E. Dauch’s compensation is discussed separately inCompensation of Chief Executive Officerbelow.

Base Salary.    Base salaries provide fixed compensation to the executive for services rendered during the year. To more closely align its compensation programs with market competitive practices,


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the Company implemented market-based changes in compensation levels over a two-year period that concluded in 2010. The Compensation Committee based its 2012 salary determinations for the NEOs (other than the CEO)Executive Chairman) by reference to the 50th percentile of our comparative peer group. The recommendations of the CEOMr. R. E. Dauch and President & COOMr. D.C. Dauch were also considered in determining 2012 base salaries for the other NEOs’ salaries. ThoseNEOs. These recommendations were based on each individual’s experience, time in position, professional development, contribution to the Company, individual performance and other factors. The Compensation Committee approved 2012 increases for each of our NEOs (other than the following base salaries for 2011:
     
  Base Salary
 
Richard. E. Dauch $2,702,300 
Michael K. Simonte $515,000 
David C. Dauch (effective November 1, 2010) $650,000 
John J. Bellanti $473,800 
John E. Jerge $303,000 
Executive Chairman) as follows:

   Base Salary 
   2012   2011 

David C. Dauch (effective September 1, 2012)

  $1,000,000    $650,000  

Michael K. Simonte

  $527,900    $515,000  

John J. Bellanti

  $485,700    $473,800  

Norman Willemse

  $310,600    $303,000  

President & CEO Base Salary.    Effective September 1, 2012, the Board appointed Mr. D.C. Dauch President & CEO. The Company entered into an employment agreement with Mr. D.C. Dauch on August 27, 2012 in connection with this appointment. Mr. D.C. Dauch’s base salary as President & CEO is $1 million.

In determining Mr. D.C. Dauch’s base salary, the Compensation Committee considered CEO base salary benchmarking data provided by Meridian from the comparative peer group established by the Compensation Committee for purposes of setting executive compensation as shown inMarket Analysis and Benchmarking above. In addition, management provided the Compensation Committee with publicly available CEO pay information for members of the Company’s competitor peer group. Based on Meridian’s analysis, Mr. D.C. Dauch’s base salary is at the 50th percentile of CEO pay among our comparative peer group.

Effective January 1, 2012 through August 31, 2012, Mr. D.C. Dauch’s base salary (as President & COO) was increased effective November 1, 2010 in connection with$810,000. This amount reflected an increase from $650,000 due to the additional responsibilities he assumed on December 1, 2011 in the areas of labor relations, legalfinance, information technology and administration.investor relations. In determining his 2012 base salary while serving as President & COO, the Compensation Committee also considered his leadership role in connection with the Company’s ongoing succession planning process.

Other NEO Base Salaries.    The increases in 2012 base salary shown above for Mr. Simonte, Mr. Bellanti and Mr. Willemse represent annual merit increases of 2.5%. Based on Meridian’s market data analysis, Mr. Simonte’s 2012 base salary is between the 50th and 75th percentile of CFO pay among our comparative peer group. Mr. Simonte’s pay level reflects, among other things, his additional leadership responsibilities in functional areas outside the finance organization. Mr. Bellanti’s and Mr. Willemse’s 2012 base salaries are at the 50th percentile of pay for 2010, 2009 and 2008 are showntheir positions among our comparative peer group. Mr. R.E. Dauch’s compensation is discussed below in theSummary Compensation Tableof Executive Chairman.

Annual Incentive Compensation.    Annual incentive compensation at AAM is designed to:

Encourage executives to achieve short-term goals to foster achievement of the long-term goals of the Company;

• Encourage executives to achieve short-term goals to foster the long-term goals of the Company;
• Reward performance to support strategic initiatives; and
• Provide incentives for executive retention.

Reward performance to support strategic initiatives; and

Provide incentive for executive retention.

Annual incentive compensation is measured by our achievement of financial targets established under AAM’s Incentive Compensation Plan for Executive Officers. All executive officers (other than the Executive Chairman) participated in this plan during 2012. On an annual basis, the Compensation Committee determines one or more performance factors, and the relative weighting of each factor, in consideration of the Company’s key performance objectives. Under the plan, the performance factors

that may be selected are (1) net income as a percentage of sales (NIPS), (2) after tax return on invested capital (ROIC) and (3) net operating cash flow. ROIC is defined as after-tax return divided by average invested capital. Net operating cash flow is defined as cash provided by or used in operating activities less capital expenditures. Target performance levels, established annually, are intended to be aggressive but achievable metrics based on industry conditions.

Cash

Payment of annual cash incentive awards are permitted to the extent the Company both (1) meets or exceeds threshold levels of performance set by the Compensation Committee and (2) reports positive net income for the performance year. However, theThe plan permits the Compensation Committee to make discretionary adjustments if the Committeeit determines that the achievement of performance targets for a plan year do not reflect the true performance of the Company due to unanticipated circumstances specified in the plan. No such adjustments were made for the 2008, 2009 or 2010 plan years.

IndividualAnnual incentive awards may be increased or decreased by the Compensation Committee, based on the CEO’s recommendation, in considerationrecommendations of individual experience, time in position, professional development, contribution to the Company, individual performanceMr. R.E. Dauch and other factors. No changes were recommended for 2010 annual incentive awards paid to executive officers.
2010 Annual Incentives
In support of the Company’s 2010 strategic initiatives, the Committee approved the use of net operating cash flow as the sole performance metric to be used in determining 2010 annual incentives for the following reasons:
• Cash flow is a critical financial metric for AAM at this time due to its impact on liquidity and debt reduction;


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Mr. D.C. Dauch.


• Increasing cash flow is key to achieving credit rating upgrades, which will have a favorable impact on the Company’s cost of future financing; and
• The Committee believes increasing cash flow benefits AAM stakeholders.
The following table summarizes the approved2012 target annual incentive opportunities for the NEOs in 2010 and 2011 (stated(other than the Executive Chairman), stated as a percentage of base salary):
salary:

   Annual Incentive
Opportunity
 
Richard. E.

David C. Dauch (effective September 1, 2012)

   *125% 

Michael K. Simonte

   80%
David C. Dauch90%

John J. Bellanti

   80%
John E. Jerge

Norman Willemse

   60%
Patrick S. Lancaster (Retired 1/1/2011)80%
Mr. R.E. Dauch received no annual incentive award in 2010 in consideration of the $3 million compensation limitation under the 2009 Settlement and Commercial Agreement.

President & CEO Annual Incentive Target.    Pursuant to his employment agreement, Mr. D.C. Dauch’s target annual incentive opportunity is 125% of base salary. His target annual incentive opportunity for the period January 1, 2012 through August 31, 2012 was 90% of base salary. In determining Mr. D.C. Dauch’s target annual incentive opportunity effective September 1, 2012, the fourth quarter of 2009,Compensation Committee considered, among other things, the Committee determined the 2010 awardpay levels for CEOs among AAM’s competitor peer group as described inPresident & CEO Base Salaryabove. Based on a market analysis conducted by Meridian, Mr. D.C. Dauch’s target annual incentive opportunity is 6% above the net operating cash flow performance metric75th percentile of CEO pay among our comparative peer group. The Compensation Committee considered this level to be appropriate in conjunction with a reviewconsideration of his target long-term incentive opportunity, which is at the 50th percentile of our comparative peer group.

Other NEO Annual Incentive Targets.    The Compensation Committee considers Meridian’s market analysis in determining the annual incentive target opportunities for the other NEOs. The 2012 annual incentive target opportunities for Mr. Simonte, Mr. Bellanti and Mr. Willemse are each between the 50th and 75th percentile for comparable positions among our comparative peer group. Mr. R.E. Dauch’s annual bonus is discussed below inCompensation of Executive Chairman.

2012 Annual Incentive Performance

In support of the Board-approved annual budgetCompany’s 2012 goals and projections provided to AAM’s lenders. The award levels are as follows:

Net Operating Cash Flow
PerformancePayout
Threshold$(60) million50%
TargetBreakeven100%
Maximum$25 million125%
The 2010 threshold award level for net operating cash flow was based on projections provided to AAM’s lenders in 2009 in obtaining amendments to our senior credit agreements and refinancing substantially all senior debt maturities through 2014. The target award level was set at breakeven net operating cash flow. The maximum award level was determined to be an aggressive target based on the Company’s projected volumes and industry conditions when the target was established.
The Company’s 2010 net operating cash flow performance exceeded the maximum target award level by more than $100 million. Accordingly, the Committee approved a payout of 125 percent of target. The annual incentive awards paid to the NEOs are shown in theSummary Compensation Table.
2011 Annual Incentives
In 2010,objectives, the Compensation Committee approved the use of net operating cash flow and net income as a percentage of sales (NIPS),NIPS, each with an equal weighting, as the performance metrics to be used infor determining 20112012 annual cash incentives. Net operating cash flow was selected for the reasons described above under2010 Annual Incentives.and NIPS waswere selected as a performance metric for 2011metrics for the following reasons:

Net operating cash flow is a critical financial metric for AAM at this time due to its impact on liquidity and debt reduction;

• Net income is a key indicator of financial and operational performance; and
• Net income and net income growth is highly correlated to cash flow, return on invested capital and stockholder value creation.
Award levels for NIPS and

Increasing net operating cash flow were determined inis key to achieving credit rating upgrades, which will have a favorable impact on the Company’s cost of future financing;

Net income is a key indicator of financial and operational performance; and

Net income and net income growth are highly correlated to cash flow, cash flow growth and stockholder value creation.

In the fourth quarter of 2010. Target2011, in conjunction with a review of the Board-approved annual budget, the Compensation Committee determined the 2012 targets for both the net operating cash flow and NIPs performance metrics. The 2012 targets for each performance metric are as follows:

   Net Operating
Cash Flow
  Net Income as a
Percentage of  Sales
   Performance  Payout  Performance  Payout

Threshold

  $0  50%  1%  30%

Target

  $26 million  100%  3%  100%

Maximum

  $51 million  125%  >3%  >100%

The budgeted net operating cash flow was $1 million. The target performance level for net operating cash flow was based on the Company outperforming the budget by $25 million; the maximum performance level was based on outperforming the budget by $50 million. No payout would be made with respect to the net operating cash flow metric unless the threshold was attained.

The target and threshold performance levels for NIPS were establisheddetermined based on a reviewthe performance of our competitor peer group benchmarks for the three most recently completed years. AAM’s competitor


24


peer group as shown in our 2010 annual report includes ArvinMeritor Inc.; Autoliv Inc.; BorgWarner Inc.; Dana Corporation; Lear Corporation; Magna International Inc.; Tenneco Automotive Inc. and Visteon Corporation (competitor peer group).group. The target performance level for NIPS, or 3 percent,3%, was set at a level to meet the performance of the top one-third of our competitor peer group for the three most recently completedrecent fiscal years.
There is no established maximum for NIPS. The Compensation Committee determinedapproved this approach based on the performance award levels forcorrelation of net income growth to cash flow growth and stockholder value.

The Company’s 2012 net operating cash flow performance was a use of $383.1 million, which is lower than the breakeven threshold level. Accordingly, no payout was made for 2012 based on the Board approved budget. The target performance level forthis net operating cash flow is based on our outperformingmetric. The Company’s 2012 NIPS was 3.1 %, excluding the budget by $25 millionimpact of the reversal of the deferred tax valuation allowance and the maximumcosts associated with plant closures and debt refinancing activities. Accordingly, the NIPS performance level is basedmetric resulted in an achievement of 102% of target. Based on outperforming the budget by $50 million. These 2011weighting of each performance targets will be disclosedmetric, the 2012 annual incentive awards resulted in a payout of 51% of target. For Mr. D.C. Dauch and Mr. Simonte, the Compensation Committee approved annual incentive payouts of 53% and 52% of target, respectively. The Compensation Committee made these discretionary adjustments to the payouts for Mr. D.C. Dauch and Mr. Simonte in consideration of their leadership and contributions to the Company during 2012. For Mr. D.C. Dauch, the Committee considered AAM’s strong sales growth of 13.4% on a year-over-year basis and new business awards resulting in a new business backlog of $1.25 billion for 2013-2015. For Mr. Simonte, the Committee considered the completion of key financing initiatives that provided additional liquidity to fund AAM’s sales growth, extended the debt maturity profile of AAM’s debt capital structure and allowed AAM to improve the funded status of our 2012 proxy statement.

global pension plans. The annual incentive awards paid to the NEOs are shown in theSummary Compensation Table.

Long-Term Incentives.Incentive Compensation. Long-term incentive compensation at AAM is designed to:

Align executive officer and stockholder interests;

Reward achievement of long-term performance goals; and

Provide incentives for executive retention.

The following table summarizes 2012 long-term incentive award targets for the NEOs (other than the Executive Chairman), stated as a percentage of base salary:

   Align executive officer and stockholder interests;Long-Term Incentive
Target

David C. Dauch (effective September 1, 2012)

  Reward achievement of long-term performance goals; and240

Michael K. Simonte

  Provide incentives for executive retention.120

John J. Bellanti

120

Norman Willemse

80
In prior years, AAM granted equity awards

President & CEO Long-Term Incentive.    Prior to executive officers under the 1999 Stock Incentive Plan. That plan expired in 2009 and was not replaced by the Company. Since AAM does not have an equity plan in place, the Committee approved changes to theSeptember 1, 2012, Mr. D.C. Dauch’s 2012 long-term incentive program for executive officers that impact both (1) each executive officer’s awardtarget opportunity and (2) the type of long-term incentive awards.

Cash-Based Long-Term Incentive Plan.  In 2009, the Committee approved a cash-based long-term incentive program, which provides the entirewas 180%. Under his employment agreement, Mr. D.C. Dauch’s target long-term incentive opportunity was increased to 240%. In determining Mr. D.C. Dauch’s target long-term incentive opportunity, the Compensation Committee considered, among other things, target awards for executive officers. UnderCEOs in AAM’s competitor peer group.

Upon his appointment as President & CEO on September 1, 2012, Mr. D.C. Dauch received a long-term incentive award consisting of restricted stock units and cash-based performance units. The restricted stock unit award had a grant date value of $250,000 and the AAM 2009 Long-Term Incentive Plan (AAM LTIP), each participant receivesperformance unit award had a target value of $250,000. The Board approved this one-time award value, stated asupon execution of Mr. D.C. Dauch’s employment agreement to provide him with a dollar amount basedlong-term incentive award opportunity that the Compensation Committee considered appropriate for his new position.

The restricted stock unit award is payable in common stock on a percentage of base salary.

The following table summarizes the target award amounts for the NEOs in 2011 and 2010:
         
  2011
 2010
  Target Award
 Target Award
  Amount Amount
 
Richard. E. Dauch $  $ 
Michael K. Simonte $618,000  $600,000 
David C. Dauch $1,170,000  $1,008,000 
John J. Bellanti $568,560  $552,000 
John E. Jerge $242,400  $228,000 
Patrick S. Lancaster (Retired 1/1/11) $  $528,000 
Mr. R.E. Dauch received no long-term incentive award in 2010 in consideration of the $3 million compensation limit under the 2009 Settlement and Commercial Agreement.
Award payouts can range from 0 percent to 200 percentthird anniversary of the target valuegrant date contingent upon continued employment with the Company. The performance unit award is payable in cash, based on the level of performance over a three-year period beginning in January of the year of the award.
Performance Measures
For grants under the AAM LTIP, the actual cash payouts will be determined based on the level of performance against two performance metrics approved by the Committee. One-half of the target award payment will be earned based on the cumulative amount ofCompany’s earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) over a three-yearperformance during the July 1, 2012 through June 30, 2015 performance period. The threshold, target and maximum EBITDA performance levels for determining the performance award payout are shown in theEBITDA Performance Measure table below.

Other NEO Long-Term Incentive Targets.    The Compensation Committee considers Meridian’s market analysis in determining the long-term incentive target opportunities for the other NEOs. The long-term incentive target opportunities for 2012 for Mr. Simonte, Mr. Bellanti and Mr. Willemse are currently below the 50th percentile for comparable positions among our comparative peer group of companies. Mr. R.E. Dauch’s one-time long-term incentive award is discussed below inCompensation of Executive Chairman.

2012 Long-Term Incentives

In calculating thisApril 2012, the Company received stockholder approval of the 2012 Omnibus Incentive Plan, which authorized the Company to issue equity-based long-term incentives and other types of awards. In May 2012, the Company granted the NEOs equity-based and cash-based long-term incentives under the 2012 Omnibus Incentive Plan as described below.

The Compensation Committee determined the form and mix of awards in consideration of AAM’s compensation objectives, current market practice and share usage under the Company’s 2012 Omnibus Incentive Plan.

One-half of the total 2012 long-term incentive award value for NEOs (other than the plan givesExecutive Chairman) was in the Committee discretionform of restricted stock units (RSUs) and one-half was in the form of cash-based performance units (PUs) with a notional value of one dollar. The RSUs are payable in common stock, contingent upon continued employment through the three-year vesting period. The RSUs were designed to exclude certain special itemsprovide opportunities for share ownership and motivate executive officers to build long-term value for our stockholders.

The PU target award payment will be determined based on the Company’s EBITDA performance from EBITDA, such as special charges or gains, non-recurring operating costs, extraordinary gains or losses,April 1, 2012 through December 31, 2014. The PU awards were designed to align executive officer performance goals with those of the impact of changes in accounting principles, or any other unusual items.Company. EBITDA was chosenselected as one of the measures of Company performance as itmeasure based on the Compensation Committee’s belief that EBITDA is a key indicator of the Company’s financial and operational


25


performance and is useful in analyzing entity valuation. In addition, EBITDA as a performance measure complements the metrics used to determine payouts under other incentive programs.

The remaining one-halfterms of the target award amount will be earned based on a total shareholder return (TSR) measure that comparesRSU and PU awards are described in more detail in the Company’s TSR over the three-year performance period relativeNarrative to the TSRSummary Compensation Table and Grants of AAM’s competitor peer group. Relative TSR was chosen as one of the measures of Company performance in order to motivate executive officers to build long-term value for our stockholders above that of our competitor peer group. Share price appreciation and dividends paid will be measured over the performance period to determine TSR.

Plan-Based Awards Tablebelow.

The following tables illustratetable illustrates the threshold, target and maximum EBITDA performance levels for determining 2012 PU award payouts for each performance measure.payouts. The EBITDA performance levels shown below were designed to drive a level of performance in the top one-thirdone-half of our competitor peer group.

EBITDA Performance Measure

         
    Percent of
  3-Year Cumulative
 Target Award
Performance Level
 EBITDA Opportunity Earned
 
Threshold  8%  25%
Target  12%  100%
Maximum  15%  200%

Performance Level

  33-Month Cumulative
EBITDA
  Percent of
Target Award
Opportunity Earned
 

Threshold

   10  25

Target

   12  100

Maximum

   15  200

TSR Performance MeasureEquity Grant Practices

Percent

AAM generally makes equity grants to its executive officers and other executives on an annual basis, subject to the approval of

Company’s TSR
Target Award
Percentile
Opportunity
Performance Level
RankEarned
Threshold35(th)50%
Target50(th)100%
Maximum75(th)200%
Senior Executive Special Incentive Program.  On March 15, 2010, the Compensation Committee approved a special incentive program for certain NEOs. The special incentive program was developedCommittee. Historically, grants have been made in the first quarter of each year to recognizecoincide with the extraordinary efforts of Mr. Simonte, Mr. D.C. Dauch, Mr. Bellanticommunication to executive officers and Mr. Lancaster in navigating the Company through the turbulent financial and market conditions in 2009. As a resultother executives of their individualannual cash incentive awards for the previous year’s performance. This timing increases the impact of the awards by strengthening the link between pay and collective efforts,performance. In 2012, the Companyannual grant of equity awards was abledelayed until May, which followed stockholder approval of the 2012 Omnibus Incentive Plan. On September 1, 2012, equity awards were granted to successfully complete its restructuring outside of bankruptcy, gain contract clarity with GM, and address liquidity concerns by entering into the 2009 Settlement and Commercial Agreement, amending senior credit agreements and raising cash proceeds through an equity offering.
Payments under the special incentive program for Mr. Simonte, Mr. D.C. Dauch and Mr. Bellanti are contingent upon terminationR.E. Dauch in conjunction with the execution of their employment agreements. AAM does not and has never permitted backdating, spring loading or other timing of option grants with the release of material non-public information.

Prior Long-Term Incentive Awards under the AAM 2009 Long-Term Incentive Plan

Prior to adoption of the financial accommodations provided by GM in connection with2012 Omnibus Incentive Plan, the Company’s long-term incentive program consisted of cash-based performance awards made under the AAM 2009 Settlement and Commercial Agreement and the Access and Security Agreement (Access Agreement)Long-Term Incentive Plan (2009 AAM LTIP). The Committee and the full Board believe that termination

Payouts of the financial accommodations provided by GM and the Access Agreement is in the best interests of AAM, its stockholders and other key stakeholders. The benefits to AAM of terminating the financial accommodations provided by GM and the Access Agreement include, among other things, a cost savings associated with eliminating the one percent sales discount related to the expedited payment terms. The Company also anticipates improved flexibility in accessing new sources of debt capital by eliminating certain covenants and other restrictions that accompany the financial accommodations provided by GM and the Access Agreement.

The special incentive program was also designed to retain Mr. Simonte, Mr. D.C. Dauch and Mr. Bellanti and to motivate them to accomplish the objectives described above. It is expected that


26


they will be instrumental to the Company in strengthening our financial and competitive position in the future. The special incentive program for Mr. Lancaster was designed to reward his efforts in 2009 and provide him with an additional retirement incentive. The special incentive program2010 cash-based performance awards for Mr. Simonte, Mr. D. C. Dauch, Mr. Bellanti and Mr. Lancaster (award recipients) are as follows:
     
  Total
 
  Award Value 
 
David C. Dauch $5,000,000 
Michael K. Simonte $3,000,000 
John J. Bellanti $1,000,000 
Patrick S. Lancaster $1,000,000 
     
Total $10,000,000 
     
The Committee determined that the special incentive program was appropriately valued at $10 million in consideration of the total value that the award recipients preserved for the Company’s stockholders and other key stakeholders. The program is cash based due in part to the lack of equity available for compensation awards. The amount allocated to each award recipient waswere determined based on individual contributions. As President & COO, Mr. D.C. Dauch ledEBITDA and TSR for the operational restructuring ofperformance period beginning January 1, 2010 through December 31, 2012. The Company’s cumulative EBITDA percentage for the Companyperformance period was 13.8%, after adjustments approved by the Compensation Committee for certain special charges, including asset impairments, costs associated with plant closures and negotiationsdebt refinancing costs in accordance with GM resultingthe discretion provided to the Compensation Committee in the 2009 Settlementplan. The adjusted EBITDA percentage resulted in a payment at 159% of target. The Company’s TSR for the performance period ranked above the 35th percentile of our competitor peer group and Commercial Agreement described above. Mr. Simonte led the Company’s financial restructuring, including negotiations with lenders and GM, and effectively managed investor and media communications. Mr. Bellanti playedresulted in a critical role in the operational restructuring efforts, while maintaining excellence in the Company’s quality, warranty, delivery and launch performance during an extremely difficult and volatile production environment. Mr. Bellanti’s managementpayout of theday-to-day operations82% of the Company enabled Mr. D.C. Dauch and Mr. Simonte to focus their effortstarget. Based on the broader restructuring plans, negotiations50% weighting of EBITDA and liquidity issues. Mr. Lancaster supported the GM negotiations with a focus on gaining commercial contract clarity and protecting the Company’s interests during GM’s bankruptcy proceedings.
The awards for Mr. Simonte, Mr. D.C. Dauch and Mr. Bellanti are comprised of special incentives and annual incentives. Special incentives are approximately 30 percent to 40 percent of theTSR performance, total award and will be payable topayments were approximately 120% of target for each NEO (other than the award recipients upon termination of the financial accommodations provided by GM and the Access Agreement. Annual incentives are comprised of four equal installments and the date on which the installment payments commence is contingent upon the date of termination of the GM financial accommodations and the Access Agreement. The first annual incentive installment payment will be made no earlier than October 31, 2011 and the final annual incentive installment payment will be made no later than January 31, 2015. In the case of both the special incentives and the annual incentives, the recipient will forfeit the award if the Access Agreement is not terminated by December 31, 2014. The award recipients must be employed with AAM on the relevant payment date to receive payment under the award, except in the event of death, disability, and resignation for good reason or termination other than for cause. Upon his retirement, the award for Mr. Lancaster became payable in a lump sum.
The contributions of Mr. R.E. Dauch and his leadership role with the Company are discussed further inCompensation of Chief Executive Officer.
Settlement Agreement with Mr. Lancaster
On July 12, 2010, the Committee approved a settlement agreement between AAM and Mr. Lancaster to provide cash payments and certain other benefits to Mr. Lancaster in connection with his retirement from AAM effective January 1, 2011 (Settlement Agreement)Chairman). The payments and benefits payable to Mr. Lancaster pursuant to the Settlement Agreement are described in theSeeNarrative to Summary Compensation Table and Grants of Plan-Based Awards TableandPotential Payments Upon Termination or Change for the amounts paid in Control.


27

March 2013.


Other Compensation Components

Benefits.    Our executive officersNEOs participate in the benefits and retirement plans provided to U.S. salaried associates. A group of approximately 4050 senior executives, including executive officers,the NEOs, also receive supplemental life, supplemental disability and umbrella liability and travel accident insurance benefits.

Executive officers Our NEOs are eligible to participate in AAM’s qualified and nonqualified defined benefit pension plans and defined contribution plan.plans. They are also eligible to participate in a nonqualified deferred compensation plan that permits deferrals of a portion of base salaryand/or annual cash incentive compensation on a pretax basis. These plans are described in thePension BenefitsandNonqualified Deferred Compensationsections below.
Change in Control Payments and Benefits.  Under the 2009 Settlement and Commercial Agreement, all executive officer continuity agreements were terminated. These agreements had provided enhanced severance benefits following a change in control of the Company.

Perquisites.    AAM provides a limited number of perquisites for senior executives, including executive officers, which are described in the footnotes to theSummary Compensation Table. The most significant perquisite provided is the use of a Company-provided vehicle with AAM content. This perquisite is common among automotive suppliers.our NEOs. AAM has never owned a corporate aircraft and does not provide leased aircraft for personal use. AAM does not pay for country club memberships.

Senior executives are eligible for the use of a Company-provided vehicle with AAM content. The Company also provides a vehicle for use by the spouses of the Executive Chairman and the President & CEO. From time to time, the Company invites spouses of AAM senior executives to attend Company business events. For attendance that requires a spouse to travel, the Company pays for the spouse’s travel and other related non-business expenses and reimburses the executive for taxes attributable to the income associated with this benefit. Perquisites are further described in the footnotes to theSummary Compensation Table.

Compensation of Chief Executive OfficerChairman

Effective September 1, 2012, the Board appointed the co-founder, Mr. R. E. Dauch’s compensation is governed byDauch, Executive Chairman of the Board. The Company entered into an employment agreement with Mr. R.E. Dauch on August 27, 2012 in connection with this appointment, which was amendedconcurrent with the appointment of Mr. D. C. Dauch as President & CEO. The key responsibilities assigned to Mr. R.E. Dauch are described above in December 2009.Corporate Governance, Board Leadership Structure.

Mr. R.E. Dauch’s total compensation package is set forth in his employment agreement. Mr. R.E. Dauch’s compensation was structured in order to induce him to defer retirement from AAM and assume the leadership responsibilities as Executive Chairman. The Board approved the Executive Chairman’s compensation package in consideration of Mr. R.E. Dauch’s extensive knowledge and expertise in the global automotive industry and the Board’s expectation that he will carry out these responsibilities in support of AAM’s goals and business strategy to build value for AAM stockholders and other key stakeholders.

Mr. R.E Dauch’s employment agreement iscontinues through August 31, 2015, and renews automatically for two additional one-year periods unless either party gives notice of its election not to renew. The terms and conditions of his employment agreement are further described in theNarrative to Summary Compensation and Grants of Plan-Based Awards Tablebelow. The CEO’s compensation arrangements are structured in considerationcomponents of the breadth of his responsibilities for the entire Company, his unique experience in the automotive industry, his leadership skills and service to AAM since he co-founded the Company in 1994.

Compensation Limit.  In accordance with the December 22, 2009 employment agreement amendment between the Company and Mr. R. E. Dauch, the CEO agreed to forego compensation payable to him under his then current employment agreement to the extent his annual compensation would exceed the $3 million limit set forth in the 2009 Settlement and Commercial Agreement.
The primary elements of the CEO’s compensation as set forth in his employment agreement are base salary, annual cash bonus, benefits and perquisites, subject in each case to the $3 million compensation limit described above. As discussed below, effective January 1, 2010, Mr. R.E. Dauch will no longer receive annual equity awards from the Company.
Base Salary.  Base salary is determined by the Committee as part of the annual compensation review process. In determining Mr. R.E. Dauch’s compensation in 2009, the Committee considered his role in overseeing and directing the Company’s successful restructuring outside of bankruptcy under the extraordinary circumstances facing the automotive industry in 2009. As a result, value was preserved for AAM’s stockholders and other key stakeholders. The Committee considers Mr. R.E. Dauch’s continuing leadership, unique role and the services he provides to AAM critical to the achievement of the Company’s strategic goals for 2010. No change was made toare described below.

Base Salary.    Mr. R.E. Dauch’s base salary for 2010 or 2011.

In connection with the annual compensation limit set forth in the 2009 Settlement and Commercial Agreement, Mr. R.E. Dauch agreed to forego certain compensation and benefits that heas CEO was entitled to in accordance with his employment agreement. As described below, Mr. R. E. Dauch will no longer receive equity grants and did not receive a bonus in 2010, 2009 and 2008. He also agreed to terminate his change in control agreement. These factors were also taken into consideration by the Committee in determining$2 million beginning October 1, 2011 through August 31, 2012. Effective September 1, 2012, Mr. R.E. Dauch’s base salary. Pursuant to the December 22, 2009


28


employment agreement amendment, Mr. R.E. Dauch’s annualsalary as Executive Chairman was set at $2 million, continuing through August 31, 2015. His base salary is $2,702,300, effective June 16, 2009.will be reduced to $1 million for any renewal period from September 1, 2015 through August 31, 2017. Base salary for 2010, 20092012, 2011 and 20082010 is shown in theSummary Compensation Table.

Annual Cash Bonus.    For calendar year 2012, Mr. R. E.R.E. Dauch iswas eligible for an annual cash bonus as described indetermined under his prior employment agreement. SeeNarrative to Summary Compensation Table and Grants of Plan-Based Awards Tablebelow. TheAccordingly, the annual cash bonus for 2012 is based on the Compensation Committee’s assessment of Company performance as compared to that of theour competitor peer group. Pursuant to his employment agreement, Mr. R.E. Dauch is entitledHe was eligible to receive an annual bonus payment of up to three times his annual salary, or $6 million, if AAM outperformsoutperformed its competitor peer group by greater than the historical amount. However, his annual bonus will be reduced, if necessary, to comply with the $3 million limit on annual compensation set forth in the 2009 Settlement and Commercial Agreement.group. In determining Mr. R. E.R.E. Dauch’s annual cash award,bonus, the Compensation Committee may use discretion in considering other factors, which may differ from year to year.

Long-term Incentives.  Pursuant

The Compensation Committee approved Mr. R.E. Dauch’s annual bonus for 2012 in the amount of $4 million. In determining this award, the Compensation Committee considered AAM’s 2012 performance, including strong sales growth of 13.4% on year-over-year basis, new business awards resulting in a new business backlog of $1.25 billion for the years 2013-2015, achievement of market competitive labor cost structures and attainment of key quality performance objectives. The Committee also considered the successful completion of financing initiatives that provided additional liquidity to fund AAM’s sales growth, extended the debt maturity profile of AAM’s debt capital structure and allowed AAM to improve the funded status of our global pension plans. The Company’s 2012 performance was adversely impacted by special charges related to the December 22, 2009 employment agreement amendment, Mr. R. E. Dauch agreed to forego receiptclosure of two U.S. plants, increased costs associated with global launch activity, lower capacity utilization and labor inefficiencies. Based on these and other factors, the annual equity awardsCompensation Committee decided that the Company had agreed to provide

amount of his award would be less than the maximum amount permitted under his employment agreement since it was first executed in November 1997. Asagreement. This 2012 award reflects a result, effective January 1, 2010, Mr. R.E. Dauch will no longer receive annual equity awards$2 million decrease from the Company. The terms of the outstanding awards granted prior to 2010 are described in thehis 2011 bonus. SeeNarrative to Summary Compensation Table and Grants of Plan-Based Awards Table.Table

below.

Long-Term Incentives.    Upon his appointment as Executive Chairman on September 1, 2012, Mr. R.E. Dauch received a one-time equity award of RSUs with a grant date value of $6,247,000. The Compensation Committee considered the amount of this award to be appropriate as a long-term incentive based on his service as AAM’s CEO during 2012 and the Company’s desire to provide an inducement sufficient for Mr. R.E. Dauch to enter into the employment agreement as Executive Chairman. Mr. R.E. Dauch is not eligible to receive any additional equity or other long-term incentive awards during the term of his employment agreement.

Under his prior employment agreement, Mr. R.E. Dauch was entitled to receive, each year, an award of 150,000 stock options and an equity award of equal value. Accordingly, on May 30, 2012, Mr. R.E. Dauch received 150,000 stock options and 68,227 RSUs under the 2012 Omnibus Incentive Plan. Mr. R.E. Dauch did not receive any long-term incentive awards for 2010 and 2011 as a result of, among other things, AAM not having an equity plan available for issuance of equity-based awards. These awards are shown in theGrants of Plan-Based Awardstable and are further described in theNarrative to the Summary Compensation Table and Grants of Plan-Based Awards Tablebelow.

Benefits and Perquisites.    Mr. R. E.R.E. Dauch participates in the same benefit programs provided for other executive officers. In addition, under his employment agreement, AAM provides Mr. R. E.R.E. Dauch with the use of an additionaltwo Company vehiclevehicles and reimburses him for premiums underpaid for a $5 million life insurance policy. The Company will also provide postretirement health care benefits upon expiration of his employment agreement. Perquisites provided to the CEOExecutive Chairman in 2010, 20092012, 2011 and 20082010 are reported in theSummary Compensation Table.

Management’sExecutive Officer Stock Ownership Requirements & Anti-Hedging Policy

Stock Ownership Requirements.

The Committee has established stock ownership requirements    A fundamental objective of our compensation program is for executive officers. The lackofficers to own AAM stock in order to align their interests with those of an equity planour stockholders and to grant restricted stock or other equity awards restrictsreinforce the Company’s abilityimportance of making sound long-term decisions. Since January 2009, the Company has been unable to issue equity-based compensation in support theirof the achievement of stock ownership requirements. To address this issue,Consequently, the Compensation Committee determinedadopted provisional stock ownership requirements based on a setfixed number of shares.
shares at levels that recognized that executive officers would not receive equity-based compensation until our stockholders approved a new incentive plan under which equity awards could be made.

Upon stockholder approval of AAM’s 2012 Omnibus Incentive Plan, the Compensation Committee decided to increase the stock ownership requirements for executive officers in 2012 and change the measurement from a fixed number of shares to a multiple of base salary. These new stock ownership requirements were based on an analysis of prevalent external market practices provided by Meridian in 2012 at the direction of the Compensation Committee. Based on this analysis, the Compensation Committee increased the stock ownership requirement levels as follows:

Fixed Share RequirementStock Ownership Requirements for Executive Officers

   No.Multiple of Shares
Base Salary
 

Chief Executive Officer

   350,0005  

Executive Vice President & COO

   50,0003  
Executive

Group Vice President and Vice President

   25,000
Vice President15,0002  
The stock ownership

Executive officers have five years from April 2012 to meet these requirements must be attained withinor, for new executive officers, five years from the effective date or, for newly appointedof becoming an executive officers, within five yearsofficer. Once the requirement is met, the executive officer must maintain the required ownership level. Shares owned directly and any unvested RSUs (payable in stock) are considered in determining the requirements; unexercised stock options are not considered. One hundred percent of such appointment. Currently, allthe net shares of equity awards granted by the Company must be held until the requirement has been met.

The Compensation Committee annually reviews each executive officer’s stock ownership amounts as compared to the established stock ownership requirements. All executive officers are in compliance with theon target to meet these stock ownership requirements.

AAM prohibitsrequirements for their respective positions.

Anti-hedging Policy.    All employees and non-employee directors are prohibited from entering into transactions that may result in a financial benefit if our stock price declines, or any hedging and pledgingtransaction involving our stock, including but not limited to the use of financial derivatives, short sales or any similar transactions. Pledging of Company stock.

stock is also prohibited.

Federal Income Severance Benefits and Restrictive Covenants

Other than the Executive Chairman and President & CEO, our NEOs are not entitled to severance benefits upon termination of employment for any reason. AAM does not provide any NEO with severance benefits solely as a result of a change in control. Our employment agreements with Mr. D.C. Dauch and Mr. R.E. Dauch provide for certain benefits upon termination of employment without cause or upon resignation for good reason. Severance benefits payable under these agreements are described underPotential Payments upon Termination or Change in Control below.

Each of the NEOs has agreed to non-competition and non-solicitation covenants for a period following termination of employment. For additional information, seePotential Payments upon Termination or Change in Control below.

Tax ConsiderationsGross Ups

The Company does not provide tax gross ups to an executive officer upon a change in control.

Tax Deductibility of Executive Compensation.Compensation

In general, the compensation awarded to the NEOs will be taxable to the executive and will give rise to a corresponding corporate deduction at the time the compensation is paid. Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code (Code) deniesprecludes a federal incomepublic corporation from taking a tax deduction for certainannual compensation in excess of $1 million per year paid to the CEO or to any of the other NEOs other than the CFO. The portion ofOne exception applies to performance-based compensation paid pursuant to stockholder-approved employee benefit plans. Performance based compensation is compensation that is paid only if the compensation in excess of $1 million paid to certain NEOs in 2010 was not deductible for federal income tax purposes.


29

individual’s performance meets pre-established objective performance goals based on performance criteria approved by our stockholders.


Although deductibility of compensation is preferred, tax deductibility is not athe primary objective of the Company’s compensation programs. The Compensation Committee believesmay decide to pay compensation or grant awards that achievingare consistent with the objectives of our executive compensation objectives set forth above is more importantprogram that may not be deductible by the Company for tax purposes.

The annual incentives and long-term incentive performance unit awards granted in 2012 to the NEOs (other than the benefit of tax deductibility. The Company reservesExecutive Chairman) are intended to comply with the rightperformance-based compensation exemption under Section 162(m). RSUs granted to maintain flexibilityNEOs in how executive officers are compensated, which may result in limiting2012, although not deductible, were considered to be the deductibility of amounts of compensation from time to time.

Risk Assessment of Compensation Policies and Practices
In 2011, AAM management conductedappropriate vehicle for a risk assessmentportion of the Company’slong-term incentive component of our executive compensation policiesprogram. The 2012 annual bonus for the Executive Chairman was determined in accordance with his employment agreement and practices relatingis not deductible. Stock options granted to AAM’s compensation programsMr. R.E. Dauch in 2012 are intended to satisfy the requirements for executive officers and other associates on a global basis. The process used by management to conduct the risk assessment was approved by the Compensation Committee. Based on the risk assessment and other factors, management concluded that AAM’s compensation policies and practices do not create risks that are reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on the Company. The Compensation Committee agreed with management’s conclusion.
deductibility under Section 162(m).

REPORT OF THE COMPENSATION COMMITTEE

The Compensation Committee has reviewed and discussed with management the Compensation Discussion and Analysis required by Item 402(b) ofRegulation S-K, and based on such review and discussions, recommended to the Board of Directors that such Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in this proxy statement.

Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors

Forest J. Farmer, Chairman

Elizabeth A. Chappell

Steven B. Hantler

Larry K. Switzer

Thomas K. Walker


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SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE

The following table summarizes the compensation of our named executive officers (Richard E. Dauch, Co-Founder, Chairman of the Board & Chief Executive Officer, Michael K. Simonte, Executive Vice President — Finance & Chief Financial Officer, David C. Dauch, President & Chief Operating Officer, John J. Bellanti, Executive Vice President, Worldwide Operations, John E. Jerge, President — AAM Americas and Patrick S. Lancaster, retired effective January 1, 2011, former Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer & Secretary, for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2010,2012, December 31, 20092011 and December 31, 2008.

                                              
                     Change in
      
                     Pension Value
      
                  Non-Equity
  and
      
                  Incentive
  Nonqualified
      
                  Plan
  Deferred
  All Other
   
            Stock
  Options
  Compen-
  Compensation
  Compen-
   
Name and
     Salary
  Bonus(2)
  Awards(3)
  Awards(3)
  sation(4)
  Earnings(5)
  sation(6)
  Total
Principal Position  Year  ($)  ($)  ($)  ($)  ($)  ($)  ($)  ($)
                                              
Richard E. Dauch(1)                                             
Co-Founder, Chairman &   2010    2,702,304                    2,692,143(7)   158,981    5,553,428(7)
Chief Executive Officer   2009    2,156,269        167,583    210,000        7,074,845    112,485    9,721,182 
    2008    1,620,667        596,655    400,500        3,081,360    105,673    5,804,855 
                                              
Michael K. Simonte                                             
Executive Vice President —   2010    500,004                500,000    97,430    51,294    1,148,728 
Finance & Chief Financial Officer   2009    372,375                    69,597    46,477    488,449 
    2008    271,125        100,800    33,375        59,884    44,235    509,419 
                                              
David C. Dauch(1)                                             
President & Chief   2010    575,004                731,250    97,540    27,006    1,430,800 
Operating Officer   2009    411,125                    101,071    27,748    539,944 
    2008    358,875        120,960    41,385        96,222    21,460    638,902 
                                              
John J. Bellanti                                             
Executive Vice President,   2010    459,996                460,000    357,673    30,312    1,307,981 
Worldwide Operations   2009    355,417                    224,999    31,518    611,934 
                                              
John E. Jerge                                             
President — AAM Americas   2010    288,000                227,250    74,685    43,226    633,161 
                                              
Patrick S. Lancaster(8)                                             
Former Executive Vice President,   2010    440,004    704,000            173,184    283,152(8)   1,081,878(9)   2,682,218(10)
Chief Administrative Officer &   2009    356,158                    348,353    31,999    736,510 
Secretary   2008    268,896        146,160    32,040        145,474    33,979    626,549 
                                              
2010.

Name and

Principal Position

 Year  Salary
($)
  Bonus(2)
($)
  Stock
Awards(3)
($)
  Options
Awards(3)
($)
  Non-Equity
Incentive
Plan
Compen-
sation(4)
($)
  Change in
Pension Value
And
Nonqualified
Deferred
Compensation
Earnings(5)
($)
  All Other
Compen-
sation(6)
($)
  Total
($)
 
          

David C. Dauch(1)

                  

President & Chief Executive Officer

  2012    873,333    21,500    979,013        1,728,100    565,534    67,695    4,235,175  
  2011    650,004    111,150            7,169,180    397,228    28,778    8,356,340  
  2010    575,004                731,250    97,540    27,006    1,430,800  
          

Michael K. Simonte

                  

Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

  2012    527,900    4,617    316,743        935,383    294,245    48,942    2,127,830  
  2011    515,004    37,080            4,255,095    251,101    49,604    5,107,884  
  2010    500,004                500,000    97,430    51,294    1,148,728  
          

Richard E. Dauch(1)

Co-Founder & Executive Chairman

  2012    2,000,000    4,000,000    6,874,007    627,000        4,201,202    141,916    17,844,125  
  2011    2,526,728    6,000,000                2,802,700    149,441    11,478,869  
  2010    2,702,304                    2,692,143    158,981    5,553,428  
          

John J. Bellanti

                  

Executive Vice President, Worldwide Operations

  2012    485,700        291,424        802,400    188,187    42,429    1,810,140  
  2011    473,796                2,166,972    446,401    33,823    3,120,992  
  2010    459,996                460,000    357,673    30,312    1,307,981  

Norman Willemse

Vice President, Metal Formed Product

Business Unit

  
 
2012
2011
  
  
  
 
310,600
303,000
  
  
  

 


  

  

  

 

124,249

  

  

  

 


  

  

  
 
376,808
603,180
  
  
  
 
100,562
113,444
  
  
  
 
48,162
41,412
  
  
  
 
960,381
1,061,036
  
  

(1)Mr. R. E.D.C. Dauch and Mr. D.C.R.E. Dauch receive compensation based solely on their roleroles as executive officers. They receive no additional compensation for serving as directors.

(2)Reflects discretionary adjustments to the 2012 annual incentive payments for Mr. D.C. Dauch and Mr. Simonte as described above in theCompensation Discussion and Analysis. For Mr. R.E. Dauch, received no annual incentivereflects a 2012 bonus award in 2010 in consideration of the $3 million compensation limitation in the 2009 Settlement and Commercial Agreement. Mr. Lancaster received a 2010 bonus payment pursuant to the Settlement Agreementunder his employment agreement as described in theNarrative to Summary Compensation Table and Grants of Plan-Based Award Table.

(3)Reflects the full grant date fair value of equity awards made during fiscal years 2009 and 2008.year 2012 calculated in accordance with FASB ASC 718 (without any reduction for risk of forfeiture) as determined based on applying the assumptions used in our financial statements. The grant date fair value of stock awards is calculated using the closing market price of AAM common stock on the date of grant. The grant date fair value of option awards was $1.40 and $2.67 per share of common stock covered by the award for 2009 and 2008 respectively, calculated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. FiscalSee Note 9 to the audited consolidated financial statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year amounts for 2008 were recomputed based on each award’s full grant date fair value reported in that fiscal year’sGrantsended December 31, 2012 regarding assumptions underlying the valuation of Plan-Based Awards Table.equity awards.

(4)Reflects amounts earned under the AAM Incentive Compensation Plan for Executive Officers for Mr. Simonte, Mr. D.C. Dauch, Mr. Bellanti and Mr. Jerge. Amount reflected for Mr. Lancaster is a pro-rata payment of the 2010 performance award under the2009 AAM LTIP that vested upon his retirement;with respect to the remaining amount was forfeited.three-year performance period ending December 31, 2012. The 2012 amounts are as follows:


31

   AAM Incentive
Compensation Plan
   AAM LTIP   Total 

David C. Dauch

  $518,500    $1,209,600    $1,728,100  

Michael K. Simonte

  $215,383    $720,000    $935,383  

John J. Bellanti

  $140,000    $662,400    $802,400  

Norman Willemse

  $95,000    $281,808    $376,808  


(5)This column reflectsReflects the annualized increase in pension value under the Salaried Retirement Program, the Albion Pension Plan and the Supplemental Executive Retirement Program (SERP). There are no above-market or preferential earnings on compensation deferred under our Executive Deferred Compensation Plan. Effective August 1, 2012, the SERP was amended to include an actuarial increase provision for participants who continue to work after age 65. For Mr. R.E. Dauch, the amount shown for 2012 includes the impact of the SERP amendment of approximately $2.8 million. The SERP amendment is further described in the narrative to thePension Benefits Table.

(6)The components of All Other Compensation for 2012 are as follows:

Name 

Employer
401(k) Match
Contributions(a)

$

  

Retirement
Contributions(b)

$

  

Executive
Life
Insurance
Premiums(c)

$

  

Tax
Gross
Ups for
Spousal
Travel(d)

$

  

Other(e)

$

  

Total

$

 

David C. Dauch

  11,938    12,500    4,432    14,303    24,522    67,695  

Michael K. Simonte

  12,250    12,500    3,367        20,825    48,942  

Richard E. Dauch

  9,375    9,375    100,808        22,358    141,916  

John J. Bellanti

  8,500    12,500    6,436        14,993    42,429  

Norman Willemse

  12,146    13,647    2,784    193    19,392    48,162  

(a)Includes for 2010, employer matching contributions under theAAM’s 401(k) plan,plan.

(b)Includes employer retirement contributions under AAM’s 401(k) plan.

(c)Includes executive life insurance premiumspremiums.

(d)Includes amounts reimbursed for taxes attributable to the income associated with the cost of spousal travel for participation in Company business meetings and personal umbrella liability insurance premiums. Also includes meals provided during business hours for each NEO andevents.

(e)Includes personal use of Company-provided vehicles for Mr. R.E.D.C. Dauch, Mr. Simonte, Mr. Bellanti, Mr. JergeR.E. Dauch and Mr. Lancaster, and executive physical examinations for Mr. R.E. Dauch,Bellanti. The aggregate incremental cost of Company-provided vehicles is based on total vehicle cost if business use of the vehicle is less than 30%. For Mr. D.C. Dauch, Mr. Bellanti, Mr. Jergeincludes the cost of travel for spousal participation in Company business meetings and Mr. Lancaster. Employer contributions under the Company’s 401(k) Plan consisted of matching contributions of $11,925 for Mr. R.E. Dauch, Mr. Simonte and Mr. Jerge; $11,740 for Mr. D.C. Dauch; and $8,250 for Mr. Bellanti and Mr. Lancaster; retirement contributions of $12,250 for Mr. Simonte,events. For Mr. D.C. Dauch and Mr. Jerge. The total forR.E. Dauch, also includes meals provided during business hours. For Mr. R.E. Dauch, includes $117,586airline club access fees. For Mr. Willemse, also includes employer matching contributions under the Executive Deferred Compensation Plan, the cost of airfare for executive life insurance premiumspersonal travel under an international relocation arrangement and the cost of his spouse’s attendance attravel for spousal participation in Company business meetings and events.
(7)The benefits associated with For each NEO, reflects the change in other pension values are excluded from the measurementcost of total compensation under the 2009 Settlementexecutive physicals and Commercial Agreement. Under the 2009 Settlement and Commercial Agreement, annual compensation for any executive officer, current or former, cannot exceed $3 million. The following table illustrates AAM’s compliance with this provision of the 2009 Settlement and Commercial Agreement as it relates to Mr. R.E. Dauch’s 2010 compensation:personal umbrella liability insurance premiums.
     
Total 2010 compensation as presented on Summary Compensation Table $5,553,428 
Less: Value of pension / SERP benefits granted prior to 2010  2,692,143 
     
Total 2010 compensation as measured under the 2009 Settlement and Commercial Agreement $2,861,285 
     
(8)Effective July 12, 2010, Mr. Lancaster assumed the role of Special Advisor to AAM’s Co-Founder, Chairman & CEO, a non-officer position, and retired from AAM effective January 1, 2011. His Salaried Pension and SERP benefit commenced in 2011. The change in pension value reflects actual commencement dates and form of payment elections.
(9)Includes a $1 million special incentive program award earned by Mr. Lancaster as of December 31, 2010. Also includes $47,444, which represents the value of the Company vehicle transferred to Mr. Lancaster pursuant to the Settlement Agreement.
(10)Mr. Lancaster’s total 2010 annual compensation is in compliance with the $3 million annual compensation limit under the 2009 Settlement and Commercial Agreement.


32


GRANTS OF PLAN-BASED AWARDS

Annual and long-term incentive awards granted in 20102012 to the NEOs are shown in the following table. The annual and long-term incentive compensation programs are described inCompensation Discussion and Analysis and following the table below.

                     
       Estimated Future Payouts Under
 
       Non-Equity Incentive Plan Awards(2)(3) 
Name  Grant Date   Threshold ($)   Target ($)   Maximum ($) 
Richard E. Dauch(1)
                
                     
Michael K. Simonte                    
                     
Annual Incentive(2)
       200,000    400,000    500,000 
                     
Long-Term Incentive(3)
   01/07/2010    225,000    600,000    1,200,000 
                     
Senior Executive Special Incentive Program(4)
   03/15/2010    3,000,000    3,000,000    3,000,000 
                     
David C. Dauch                    
                     
Annual Incentive(2)
       292,500    585,000    731,250 
                     
Long-Term Incentive(3)
   01/07/2010    378,000    1,008,000    2,016,000 
                     
Senior Executive Special Incentive Program(4)
   03/15/2010    5,000,000    5,000,000    5,000,000 
                     
John J. Bellanti                    
                     
Annual Incentive(2)
       184,000    368,000    460,000 
                     
Long-Term Incentive(3)
   01/07/2010    207,000    552,000    1,104,000 
                     
Senior Executive Special Incentive Program(4)
   03/15/2010    1,000,000    1,000,000    1,000,000 
                     
John E. Jerge                    
                     
Annual Incentive(2)
       90,900    181,800    227,250 
                     
Long-Term Incentive(3)
   01/07/2010    85,500    228,000    456,000 
                     
Patrick S. Lancaster                    
                     
Annual Incentive(5)
       176,000    352,000    440,000 
                     
Long-Term Incentive(3)(6)
   01/07/2010    198,000    528,000    1,056,000 
                     

           Estimated Future Payouts under
Non Equity Incentive Plan Awards(1)
  All Other
Stock
Awards:
Number
of Shares
of Stock
or Units(2)
#
  All Other
Option
Awards:
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Options(3)
#
  Exercise
or Base
Price of
Option
Awards
$/Sh(4)
  Grant Date
Fair
Value of
Stock and
Option
Awards(5)
$
 
Name Grant Date  Approval
Date
  Number
of
Units #
  Threshold
$
  Target
$
  Maximum
$(1)
     

David C. Dauch

                                        

Annual Incentive

              406,667    1,016,667                      

Long-Term Incentive

  5/30/2012    4/26/2012    729,000    182,250    729,000    1,458,000    79,326            729,006  

Long-Term Incentive

  9/1/2012    8/27/2012    250,000    62,500    250,000    500,000    22,382            250,007  

Michael K. Simonte

                                        

Annual Incentive

              168,928    422,320                      

Long-Term Incentive

  5/30/2012    4/26/2012    316,740    79,185    316,740    633,480    34,466            316,743  

Richard E. Dauch(6)

                                        

Long-Term Incentive

  5/30/2012    4/26/2012                    68,227    150,000    9.19    1,254,006  

Long-Term Incentive

  9/1/2012    8/27/2012                    559,266            6,247,001  

John J. Bellanti

                                        

Annual Incentive

              155,424    388,560                      

Long-Term Incentive

  5/30/2012    4/26/2012    291,420    72,855    291,420    582,840    31,711            291,424  

Norman Willemse

                                        

Annual Incentive

              74,544    186,360                     

Long-Term Incentive

  5/30/2012    4/26/2012    124,240    31,060    124,240    248,480    13,520            124,249  

(1)Mr. R.E. Dauch received noReflects annual incentive or long-term incentive awards in 2010 in consideration of the $3 million annual compensation limit set forth in the 2009 Settlement and Commercial Agreement.
(2)Annual incentive awards granted under the AAM Incentive Compensation Plan for Executive Officers. Net operating cash flow and net income as a percentage of sales (NIPS) were selected as performance metrics for 2012 annual incentive awards. The maximum payout for net operating cash flow is 125%. There is no established maximum for NIPS. Also includes the long-term incentive performance unit awards granted under the 2012 Omnibus Incentive Plan. The performance units are payable in cash based on the Company’s EBITDA performance. See further discussion of determinationthese incentive awards under theNarrative to Summary Compensation Table and Grants of thePlan-Based Award Table.

(2)Reflects RSU awards underAnnual Incentive Compensationin theCompensation Discussion and Analysis.
(3)Long-term incentive performance awards were granted under the AAM LTIP.2012 Omnibus Incentive Plan. The awards are payable in common stock, contingent upon continued employment through the vesting period. See further discussion in theNarrative to the Summary Compensation Table and the Grants of Plan-Based Awards Table.

(3)Reflects stock option award granted to Mr. R.E. Dauch under his prior employment agreement. See further discussion in the awards underLong-Term IncentivesNarrative to Summary Compensation Table and Grants of Plan-Based Award Tableand in the Compensation of Executive Chairman section of theCompensation Discussion and Analysis.

(4)Equal to the closing market price of AAM common stock on the grant date, May 30, 2012.

(5)

Reflects the full grant date fair value of equity awards made during fiscal year 2012 calculated in accordance with FASB ASC 718 (without any reduction for risk of forfeiture) as determined based

on applying the assumptions used in our financial statements. The grant date fair value of stock awards is calculated using the closing market price of AAM common stock on the date of grant. The grant date fair value of option awards was calculated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. See Note 9 to the audited consolidated financial statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012 regarding assumptions underlying the valuation of equity awards.

(6)Mr. Simonte, Mr. D.C.R.E. Dauch received a 2012 bonus payment of $4 million under his prior employment agreement. See further discussion in theNarrative to Summary Compensation Table and Mr. Bellanti received awards underGrants of Plan-Based Awards Table and in the SeniorCompensation of Executive Special Incentive Program further described inChairman section of theCompensation Discussion and Analysis.Analysis
(5)Mr. Lancaster received a bonus payment of $704,000 for 2010 in accordance with the Settlement Agreement.
(6)Mr. Lancaster received a pro-rata payment of the 2010 performance award, shown in theSummary Compensation Table, in connection with his retirement effective January 1, 2011..


33


Narrative to Summary Compensation Table and Grants of Plan-Based Awards Table

President & CEO Employment Agreement

In accordance with the December 22, 2009

Effective September 1, 2012, Mr. D.C. Dauch’s employment agreement amendment betweenas President & CEO provides for the Companyfollowing compensation and Mr. R. E. Dauch, the CEO agreed to forego compensation payable to him under his then currentbenefits:

Term

Initial Term: September 1, 2012 through August 31, 2015

Additional one year extensions unless either party provides 60 days’ written notice of intent not to renew

Base Salary

$1 million effective September 1, 2012, subject to annual review and increase by the Compensation Committee in its sole discretion

Annual Incentive

Participation in the AAM Annual Incentive Plan for Executive Officers

Initial target opportunity as of September 1, 2012 is 125% of base salary

Long-Term Incentive

Participation in the plans applicable to executive officers

Initial target opportunity as of September 1, 2012 is 240% of base salary

One-time award on September 1, 2012 of RSUs with a grant date value of $250,000 and performance units with a target value of $250,000

Other Benefits

Participation in plans applicable to executive officers

Retiree medical, dental and vision coverage equivalent to the benefit levels offered in the Company’s group health care plans for active salaried associates as of September 1, 2012

Executive Chairman Employment Agreement to the extent his annual compensation would exceed the $3 million limit set forth in the 2009 Settlement and Commercial Agreement.

Effective September 1, 2012, Mr. R.E. Dauch’s employment agreement as amended,Executive Chairman provides for the following compensation and benefits (subject to the $3 million compensation limit under the 2009 Settlement and Commercial Agreement with GM):

benefits:

Term

  Annual base salary

Initial Term: September 1, 2012 through August 31, 2015

Two additional one-year extensions, unless either party provides 60 days’ written notice of $2,702,300 (effective June 16, 2009), subjectintent not to annual adjustment by the Committee;renew

Base Salary

  Subject to the $3$2 million limit on annual compensation described above, annualthrough August 31, 2015; $1 million thereafter if agreement is extended

2012 Annual Incentive

Annual cash bonus in an amount determined by the Compensation Committee based on our financial performance relative to ourAAM’s competitor peer group:

•     

equal to 3 times annual base salary if we continue to outperformthe Company outperforms our competitor peer group;

•     

greater than 3 times annual base salary if we outperform our competitor peer group by greater than the historical amount; or
• up to the amount of Mr. R.E. Dauch’s base salary if we dothe Company does not outperform ourthe Company’s competitor peer group;
group

Subject to adjustment based on other factors as determined by the Compensation Committee in its sole discretion

Long-Term Incentive

  One-time grant of RSUs with a grant date value of $6,247,000 on September 1, 2012

Other Benefits

Participation in plans applicable to executive officers

Reimbursement of premiums under a $5 million life insurance policy purchased by Mr. R.E. Dauch;

• Annual executive physical examination and health and disability coverage as provided to other senior executives; and
• 

Use and maintenance of two Company-provided automobiles and the perquisites and other benefits provided to our senior executives.

The current term continues through December 31, 2011

Under the employment agreements with Mr. D.C. Dauch and is automatically extended for successive one-year terms, unless either party gives notice of termination at least 60 days prior to the end of the applicable term. The potentialMr. R.E. Dauch, certain payments and benefits uponwill be provided in the event of termination of Mr. R.E. Dauch’s employment areunder different scenarios as described below inPotential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control.

Settlement Agreement withLong-Term Incentive Awards

In 2012, the Company granted long-term incentive awards to NEOs in the form of RSUs, cash-based performance units and, for Mr. Lancaster

In accordance withR.E. Dauch, stock options, under the Settlement Agreement between2012 Omnibus Incentive Plan. The terms of these awards, as well as the outstanding cash-based performance awards granted under the 2009 AAM LTIP, are described below.

Awards Granted Under the 2012 Omnibus Incentive Plan

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs).    The RSUs granted to NEOs under age 57 at the date of grant vest in three years, while RSUs granted to NEOs age 57 and Mr. Lancaster effective July 12, 2010,over vest ratably in three approximately equal annual installments. Upon vesting, the Committee approvedRSUs are payable in common stock. Vesting is accelerated upon termination of employment due to death or disability or upon a change in control. The award is forfeited if employment is terminated for any other reason prior to vesting.

Performance Unit Awards (PUs).    The PUs granted to the NEOs (other than the Executive Chairman) on May 30, 2012 are based upon the attainment of certain EBITDA performance over a 33-month performance period beginning April 1, 2012 through December 31, 2014. PUs have an initial notional value equal to one dollar and will be settled in cash. A pro rata portion of the award is payable upon death, disability, retirement, termination without cause or upon a change in control.

The following cash paymentstable illustrates the threshold, target and other benefitsmaximum EBITDA performance levels for determining awards under PUs.

EBITDA Performance Measure

Performance Level

  33-Month Cumulative
EBITDA
  Percent of
Target Award
Opportunity Earned
 

Threshold

   10%  25%

Target

   12%  100%

Maximum

   15%  200%

Stock Options.    The nonqualified stock options granted to Mr. Lancaster in connection with his retirement effective January 1, 2011 (Retirement Date):

• Continued payment of his annual base salary in consideration of his services as Special Advisor to the CEO through December 31, 2010;
• A 2010 bonus payment of $704,000 on March 15, 2011;
• Payment of $850,000, less withholding taxes, on or before August 15, 2010 in settlement of a claim;
• Title to his Company-provided vehicle as of December 31, 2010;
• Consulting fees of $420,000 for services provided during 2011, payable in monthly installments, provided that Mr. Lancaster performs no work for a competitor of AAM;
• Vesting of his outstanding restricted stock and restricted stock units on the Retirement Date;
• Continued eligibility for the $1,000,000 Senior Special Incentive Program award granted to him on March 15, 2010; and
• Continued eligibility to receive a pro rata portion of outstanding long-term cash incentive awards granted in 2009 and 2010.


34


Payments made pursuant to this agreement were conditioned upon Mr. Lancaster’s execution of a full waiver and release of claims against AAM, which he signedR.E. Dauch on January 5, 2011. The payments and benefits payable to Mr. Lancaster pursuant to the Settlement Agreement are described inPotential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control.
Long-Term Incentive Awards
The following description refers to awards granted prior to 2010 under the Company’s 1999 Stock Incentive Plan, which has since expired. Information concerning outstanding awards is included underOutstanding Equity Awards at December 31, 2010below.
Stock Options.  Outstanding optionsMay 30, 2012 vest in three approximately equal installments on the first, second and third anniversaries of the grant date. Generally, vesting may accelerateVesting is accelerated upon termination of employment due to death or disability or upon a change in control. The award is forfeited if employment is terminated for any other reason prior to vesting. Vested options expire ten years after the grant date and may be exercised any time before the earliest of: (1) the expiration of the grant, (2) five years following termination of employment (one year following termination for options granted before 2002) due to death, disability retirement or a change in control,retirement, (3) 90 days following termination of employment without cause, or the participant’s resignation and (4) termination of employment for cause.

Restricted Stock.President & CEO Long-Term Incentive Award — September 1, 2012.      Restricted stock awardedUpon his appointment as President & CEO on September 1, 2012, Mr. D.C. Dauch received a one-time long-term incentive award in the form of RSUs and performance units. Pursuant to executives under age 60 vests onhis employment agreement, the third anniversary of the grant date. Restricted stock awarded to executives age 60 and over vests in three approximately equal annual installments through March 14, 2011. Vesting accelerates upon death, disability, termination of employment by the Company pursuant toRSU award had a reduction in force or similar program approved by the CEO, or upon a change in control.

Performance Accelerated Restricted Stock (PARS) and Performance Accelerated Restricted Stock Units (RSUs).  PARS and RSUs vest on the fifth anniversary of the grant date unless vestingvalue of $250,000 and the performance unit award had a target value of $250,000. The RSU award is accelerated on the third or fourth anniversaries of the grant date based on our total shareholder return. Vesting may also accelerate upon termination of employment due to death, disability or upon a changepayable in control. If the NEO’s employment is terminated for any other reason, he will forfeit his unvested PARS and RSUs.
Vesting is acceleratedcommon stock on the third anniversary of the grant date if AAM’s total shareholder return forcontingent upon continued employment with the preceding three-year period meets or exceeds the 66th percentile of our competitor peer group. If vestingCompany. The performance unit award is not acceleratedpayable in cash based on the third anniversary, then vesting is acceleratedCompany’s EBITDA performance during the July 1, 2012 through June 30, 2015 performance period. The threshold, target and maximum EBITDA performance levels for determining the performance award payout are shown in theEBITDA Performance Measure table above.

Executive Chairman Long-Term Incentive Award — September 1, 2012.    Upon his appointment to Executive Chairman on the fourth anniversary of the grant date if shareholder return exceeds the 66th percentile of our competitor peer group for the preceding four years. Total shareholder return is defined as the cumulative appreciation (assuming reinvestment of dividends) of an investment in common stock. Vesting will not accelerate unless AAM has positive TSR.

PARS consist of issued and outstanding shares of AAM common stock, subject to forfeiture and transfer restrictions prior to vesting of the awards, and carry voting and dividend rights from the date of grant. RSUs consist of the right to receive, upon vesting of the award, an amount in cash equal to the fair market value of the number of shares of common stock covered by the award. RSUs carry the right to receive dividend equivalent payments from the date of grant, payable in the calendar quarter when dividends are paid on our common stock.
2008 Performance Awards.  In 2008,September 1, 2012, Mr. Simonte, Mr. D.C.R.E. Dauch Mr. Bellanti and Mr. Jerge received 25 percent of theira one-time long-term incentive award in the form of RSUs payable in common stock. Pursuant to his employment agreement, the award had a grant date value of $6,247,000 and vests ratably in three approximately equal annual installments contingent upon continued employment with the Company.

Awards granted under the AAM 2009 Long-Term Incentive Plan

Cash-Based Performance Awards.    Prior to adoption of the 2012 Omnibus Incentive Plan, the Company’s long-term incentive program consisted of cash-based performance awards.awards made under the 2009 AAM LTIP. The award represented the right to a payment in cash payouts are determined based on AAM’sEBITDA and relative TSRtotal shareholder return (TSR) performance levels as shown below over a three yearthree-year performance period beginningperiod. The 2010 award payouts to the NEOs (other than the Executive Chairman) were paid in January 2008. Based on AAM’s relative TSR for the period January 2008 through December 2010, the awards did not result in a payment to Mr. Simonte, Mr. D.C. Dauch, Mr. Bellanti or Mr. Jerge.

Performance Awards.  The Performance Awards are discussedMarch 2013 as shown in theSummary Compensation DiscussionTable above. The 2011 awards under the 2009 AAM LTIP remain outstanding. In calculating these awards, the Compensation Committee has discretion to exclude certain special items from EBITDA, such as special charges or gains, non-recurring operating costs, extraordinary gains or losses, the impact of changes in accounting principles, or other unusual items.

The following tables illustrate the threshold, target and Analysis.


35

maximum performance levels for determining 2010 and 2011 award payouts for each performance measure.


   EBITDA Performance Measure  TSR Performance Measure 

Performance Level

  3-Year Cumulative
EBITDA
  Percent of
Target Award
Opportunity
Earned
  Company’s TSR
Percentile
Rank
  Percent of
Target Award
Opportunity
Earned
 

Threshold

   8  25  35th  50

Target

   12  100  50th  100

Maximum

   15  200  75th  200

OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS AT DECEMBER 31, 20102012
                               
       Option Awards       Stock Awards 
                       Market
 
                   Number of
   Value of
 
                   Shares
   Shares
 
   Number of
   Number of
           or Units
   or Units
 
   Securities
   Securities
           of Stock
   of Stock
 
   Underlying
   Underlying
           That
   That
 
   Unexercised
   Unexercised
   Option
       Have
   Have
 
   Options
   Options
   Exercise
   Option
   Not
   Not
 
   Exercisable
   Unexercisable
   Price
   Expiration
   Vested
   Vested(8)
 
Name  (#)   (#)   ($)   Date   (#)   ($) 
Richard E. Dauch   240,000         8.85    4/2/2011    19,534(1)   251,207 
    300,000         24.15    1/23/2012    39,958(2)   513,860 
    300,000         23.73    1/22/2013           
    300,000         38.70    2/2/2014           
    150,000         26.65    3/15/2015           
    150,000         15.58    3/15/2016           
    150,000         26.02    3/14/2017           
    100,500    49,500(1)   10.08    6/25/2018           
        100,500(2)   2.81    1/6/2019           
Michael K. Simonte   39,664         15.56    2/2/2011    3,600(3)(6)   46,296 
    9,500         24.15    1/23/2012    2,400(4)(6)   30,864 
    10,000         23.73    1/22/2013    3,600(3)(7)   46,296 
    8,500         38.70    2/2/2014    2,400(4)(7)   30,864 
    9,000         26.65    3/15/2015    10,000(5)   128,600 
    10,000         15.58    3/15/2016           
    10,000         26.02    3/14/2017           
    8,375    4,125(1)   10.08    6/25/2018           
David C. Dauch   7,260         8.85    4/2/2011    4,800(3)(6)   61,728 
    16,750         24.15    1/23/2012    3,200(4)(6)   41,152 
    28,000         23.73    1/22/2013    4,500(3)(7)   57,870 
    28,000         38.70    2/2/2014    3,000(4)(7)   38,580 
    12,000         26.65    3/15/2015    12,000(5)   154,320 
    15,000         15.58    3/15/2016           
    13,000         26.02    3/14/2017           
    10,385    5,115(1)   10.08    6/25/2018           
John J. Bellanti   12,000         24.15    1/23/2012    3,600(3)(6)   46,296 
    13,000         23.73    1/22/2013    2,400(4)(6)   30,864 
    16,000         38.70    2/2/2014    3,600(3)(7)   46,296 
    9,000         26.65    3/15/2015    2,400(4)(7)   30,864 
    6,700         15.58    3/15/2016    9,000(5)   115,740 
    10,000         26.02    3/14/2017           
    7,370    3,630(1)   10.08    6/25/2018           
John E. Jerge   11,500         24.15    1/23/2012    3,600(3)(6)   46,296 
    12,000         23.73    1/22/2013    2,400(4)(6)   30,864 
    10,000         38.70    2/2/2014    3,300(3)(7)   42,438 
    8,000         26.65    3/15/2015    2,200(4)(7)   28,292 
    10,000         15.58    3/15/2016    7,000(5)   90,020 
    9,500         26.02    3/14/2017           
    6,030    2,970(1)   10.08    6/25/2018           
                               


36


Name  Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options
Exercisable
(#)
   Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options
Unexercisable(1)
(#)
   Option
Exercise
Price
($)
   Option
Expiration
Date
   Number of
Shares
or Units
of  Stock
That
Have
Not
Vested
(#)
  Market
Value of
Shares
or Units
of Stock
That
Have
Not
Vested(2)
($)
 

David C. Dauch

   28,000        23.73     1/22/2013     79,326(3)  888,451  
    28,000        38.70     2/2/2014     22,382(4)  250,678  
    12,000        26.65     3/15/2015       
    15,000        15.58     3/15/2016       
    13,000        26.02     3/14/2017       

Michael K. Simonte

   10,000          23.73     1/22/2013     34,466(3)  386,019  
    8,500        38.70     2/2/2014       
    9,000        26.65     3/15/2015       
    10,000        15.58     3/15/2016       
    10,000        26.02     3/14/2017       
    12,500        10.08     6/25/2018       

Richard E. Dauch

   300,000          23.73     1/22/2013     68,227(3)  764,142  
    300,000        38.70     2/2/2014     559,266(4)  6,263,779  
    150,000        26.65     3/15/2015       
    150,000        15.58     3/15/2016       
    150,000        26.02     3/14/2017       
         150,000     9.19     5/30/2022       

John J. Bellanti

   13,000          23.73     1/22/2013     31,711(3)  355,163  
    16,000        38.70     2/2/2014       
    9,000        26.65     3/15/2015       
    6,700        15.58     3/15/2016       
    10,000        26.02     3/14/2017       
    11,000        10.08     6/25/2018       

Norman Willemse

   8,000          23.73     1/22/2013     13,520(3)  151,424  
    7,500        38.70     2/2/2014       
    9,700          10.08     6/25/2018           

                               
       Option Awards       Stock Awards 
                       Market
 
                   Number of
   Value of
 
                   Shares
   Shares
 
   Number of
   Number of
           or Units
   or Units
 
   Securities
   Securities
           of Stock
   of Stock
 
   Underlying
   Underlying
           That
   That
 
   Unexercised
   Unexercised
   Option
       Have
   Have
 
   Options
   Options
   Exercise
   Option
   Not
   Not
 
   Exercisable
   Unexercisable
   Price
   Expiration
   Vested
   Vested(8)
 
Name  (#)   (#)   ($)   Date   (#)   ($) 
Patrick S. Lancaster   35,000         8.85    4/2/2011    3,900(10)   50,154 
    40,000         24.15    1/23/2012    2,600(10)   33,436 
    30,000         23.73    1/22/2013    3,300(10)   42,438 
    25,000         38.70    2/2/2014    2,200(10)   28,292 
    9,000         26.65    3/15/2015    4,785(10)   61,535 
    11,000(9)        15.58    1/1/2016           
    9,500(9)        26.02    1/1/2016           
    8,040(9)   3,960(9)   10.08    1/1/2016           
                               
(1)GrantedReflects stock options granted on May 30, 2012 under the 1999 Stock2012 Omnibus Incentive Plan on June 25, 2008.Plan. The remaining shares and options vested on March 14, 2011.vest ratably in three equal annual installments beginning in May 2013.

(2)Granted underReflects value of outstanding RSUs using a share price of $11.20, the 1999 Stock Incentive Planclosing price of AAM common stock on January 6, 2009. Approximately one-half of the shares vested on January 6, 2011 and one-half vest on January 6,December 31, 2012.

(3)Reflects PARS granted under the 1999 Stock Incentive Plan. PARS vest on the fifth anniversary of the grant date, unless vesting is accelerated at the end of the fourth year after the grant date. Accelerated vesting is contingent upon our achievement of predetermined performance goals, measured by our relative TSR. Vesting will not be accelerated unless TSR is positive.
(4)Reflects RSUs granted on May 30, 2012 under the 1999 Stock2012 Omnibus Incentive Plan. RSUs vest on the fifth anniversary of the grant date, unless vesting is accelerated at the end of the fourth year after the grant date. Accelerated vesting is contingent upon our achievement of predetermined performance goals, measured by our relative TSR. Vesting will not be accelerated unless TSR is positive.
(5)Reflects restricted stock granted under the 1999 Stock Incentive Plan on June 25, 2008. The restricted stock awards vested on March 14, 2011.
(6)Granted on March 15, 2006. The PARS and RSUs vested on March 15, 2011.
(7)Granted on March 14, 2007. The PARS and RSUs vest on March 14, 2012. Vesting of these awards did not accelerate on March 14, 2011.
(8)Reflects the closing market value on December 31, 2010 ($12.86) of the number of shares of AAM common stock covered by outstanding PARS, RSUs and restricted stock awards on December 31, 2010.
(9)for Mr. Lancaster has five years from retirement to exercise these vested options. Unvested options were forfeited.
(10)Mr. Lancaster’s outstanding stock awards vested upon his retirement effective January 1, 2011 pursuant to the Settlement Agreement.

37


OPTIONS EXERCISED AND STOCK VESTED
                     
   Option Awards   Stock Awards 
   Number of
       Number of
     
   Shares
   Value
   Shares
   Value
 
   Acquired on
   Realized on
   Acquired on
   Realized on
 
   Exercise
   Exercise(1)
   Vesting(2)(3)(4)
   Vesting(5)
 
Name  (#)   ($)   (#)   ($) 
Richard E. Dauch   49,500    430,758    39,805    361,413 
                     
Michael K. Simonte   10,000    36,601    5,500    55,275 
                     
David C. Dauch           7,000    70,350 
                     
John J. Bellanti           5,000    50,250 
                     
John E. Jerge   11,000    24,938    5,000    50,250 
                     
Patrick S. Lancaster           10,930    102,698 
                     
(1)For Mr. R.E.D.C. Dauch, Mr. Simonte and Mr. Jerge, reflectsWillemse vest three years from the date of grant. RSUs for Mr. R.E. Dauch and Mr. Bellanti vest ratably in three approximately equal annual installments beginning in May 2013.

(4)Reflects RSUs granted on September 1, 2012 under the 2012 Omnibus Incentive Plan under the terms of Mr. D.C. Dauch’s and Mr. R.E. Dauch’s employment agreements. The RSUs for Mr. D.C. Dauch vest three years from the date of grant and for Mr. R.E. Dauch vest ratably in three approximately equal annual installments beginning in September 2013.

OPTIONS EXERCISED AND STOCK VESTED

   Option Awards  Stock Awards 
Name Number of
Shares
Acquired on
Exercise(1)
(#)
  Value
Realized  on
Exercise(1)
($)
  Number of
Shares
Acquired on
Vesting(2)(3)
(#)
  Value
Realized  on
Vesting(4)
($)
 

David C. Dauch

          4,500    52,245  

Michael K. Simonte

          3,600    41,796  

Richard E. Dauch

  49,500    484,605    19,681    224,363  

John J. Bellanti

          3,600    41,796  

Norman Willemse

          6,000    69,660  

(1)Reflects the number of shares receivedacquired upon exercise of stock options multiplied byoptions. Value realized upon exercise is based on the difference between the saleactual sales price of the AAM common stock acquired upon exercise and the exercise price for such stock options.

(2)Reflects the lapse of the transfer and forfeiture restrictions under awards of performance accelerated restricted stock granted in March 2007 to Mr. R.E.D.C. Dauch, Mr. Simonte, Mr. Bellanti and Mr. Willemse. These awards vested in January 2009. Restricted stock awarded to executives age 60 and over vest in three approximately equal annual installments through January 6,March 2012.

(3)Reflects the lapse of the transfer and forfeiture restrictions under awardsthe award of restricted stock granted to Mr. R.E. Dauch and Mr. Lancaster in June 2008. Restricted stock awarded to executives over age 60 vestJanuary 2009. The award vested in three approximately equal annual installments through March 14, 2011.January 2012.

(4)Reflects the lapse of the transfer and forfeiture restrictions under awards of PARS and RSUs granted to Mr. Simonte, Mr. D.C. Dauch, Mr. Bellanti, Mr. Jerge and Mr. Lancaster in March 2005. These awards vested in March 2010.
(5)Reflects the number of shares underlying vested performance accelerated restricted shares, PARSstock and RSUs vested,restricted stock, multiplied by the closing market price of AAM common stock on the vesting date.


38


PENSION BENEFITS

The following table shows the value of the benefits accumulated by the NEOs and their years of credited service under AAM’s Salaried Retirement Program, the Albion Pension Plan and the SERP.AAM’s Supplemental Executive Retirement Program (SERP). The years of credited service are through December 31, 2010,2012, AAM’s fiscal year-end measurement date used for financial statement reporting purposes. The values shown are based on unreduced benefits deferred to the earliest age at which unreduced benefits are payable. The assumptions used to calculate the actuarial present value of accumulated benefits are the same assumptions used in our audited consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010,2012, except that the values in the table do not reflect assumptions for future compensation increases or future service credits and assume continued service until unreduced retirement age is attained.

              
      Number of
  Present
      Years of
  Value of
      Credited
  Accumulated
      Service
  Benefit
Name  Plan Name  (#)  ($)
Richard E. Dauch(1)
  AAM Retirement Program for Salaried Employees   16.8333    843,319 
   AAM Supplemental Executive Retirement Program   21.0000(2)   22,862,681 
              
Michael K. Simonte  AAM Retirement Program for Salaried Employees   8.0833(3)   117,400 
   AAM Supplemental Executive Retirement Program   12.0833    300,241 
              
David C. Dauch  AAM Retirement Program for Salaried Employees   11.5000(3)   176,622 
   AAM Supplemental Executive Retirement Program   15.5000    483,193 
              
John J. Bellanti(4)
  AAM Retirement Program for Salaried Employees   16.8333    647,252 
   AAM Supplemental Executive Retirement Program   16.8333    614,249 
              
John E. Jerge  AAM Retirement Program for Salaried Employees   12.8333(3)   206,053 
   AAM Supplemental Executive Retirement Program   16.8333    335,632 
              
Patrick S. Lancaster(5)
  AAM Retirement Program for Salaried Employees   16.5833    861,446 
   AAM Supplemental Executive Retirement Program   16.5833    727,786 
              
See Note 6 to the audited consolidated financial statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for material assumptions.

Name Plan Name  Number of
Years of
Credited
Service
(#)
   Present
Value of
Accumulated
Benefit
($)
 

David C. Dauch

 AAM Retirement Program for Salaried Employees   11.5000     296,563  
  AAM Supplemental Executive Retirement Program   17.5000     1,326,013  

Michael K. Simonte

 AAM Retirement Program for Salaried Employees   8.0833     197,858  
  AAM Supplemental Executive Retirement Program   14.0833     765,129  

Richard E. Dauch(1)

 AAM Retirement Program for Salaried Employees   17.8333     991,169  
  AAM Supplemental Executive Retirement Program   23.0000    29,718,734  

John J. Bellanti(2)

 AAM Retirement Program for Salaried Employees   17.8333     979,008  
  AAM Supplemental Executive Retirement Program   18.8333     917,081  

Norman Willemse(3)

 Albion Pension Plan   6.3333     260,915  
  AAM Supplemental Executive Retirement Program   10.9167     282,554  

(1)Mr. R.E. Dauch was eligible to retire on December 31, 20102012 with full benefits under the Salaried Retirement Program and the SERP.

(2)As of December 31, 2009, Mr. R.E. Dauch earned 20 years of credited service in accordance with his employment agreement extension dated November 3, 2005.
(3)Benefits were frozen effective December 31, 2006 under the Salaried Retirement Program for Mr. Simonte, Mr. D.C. Dauch and Mr. Jerge.
(4)Mr. Bellanti was eligible to retire on December 31, 20102012 under both the Salaried Retirement Program and the SERP. He qualifies for a reduced benefit of approximately 68%80% of the unreduced benefit under the Salaried Retirement Program and for the basic form of benefit under the SERP.

(5)(3)Mr. Lancaster retired effective January 1, 2011. BenefitsWillemse is not a participant under both plans commence in 2011. The present values reflect actual commencement datesthe Salaried Retirement Program. Mr. Willemse was eligible to retire on December 31, 2012 under the Albion Pension Plan and form of payment elections.the SERP. He qualifies for the current benefit formula under the SERP.

We provide pension benefits for NEOs under our Salaried Retirement Program, a broad-based defined benefit pension plan open tocovering substantially all of our U.S. salaried associates hired prior to January 1, 2002,2007, and our SERP. The purpose of the SERP is to provide total retirement benefits at a competitive level with executives of other major industrial companies.

Our Albion Automotive Limited subsidiary located in Glasgow, Scotland provides pension benefits under the Albion Pension Plan for its salaried associates. Mr. Willemse was a participant in the Albion Pension Plan while an associate of Albion Automotive Limited.

Salaried Retirement Program.    The annual retirement benefit payable to each executive, commencing on retirement at or after age 65, equals the sum of the executive’s contributions plus an additional benefit based on the executive’s average monthly salary (determined as the average of the executive’s base salary in the highest 60 months during his final 10 years of service) and years of credited service. The plan also includes a cash benefit structure for participants hired between January 1, 2002 and December 31, 2006. None of the NEOs are covered by the cash benefit structure. The amount of compensation that may be taken into account for determining benefits is limited under the Internal Revenue Code. The maximum annual compensation under this limit was $245,000 for the year ended December 31, 2010.


39


Benefits under the Salaried Retirement Program may be paid as a single life annuity or, upon election, in the form of a joint and survivor annuity with a reduction in the amount of the annual benefit.

Effective December 31, 2006, the Salaried Retirement Program was amended to freeze benefits at current levels for associates who willwere not be eligible to retire by December 1, 2011. Those associates who were eligible for early or normal retirement on or before December 31, 2011 continued to accrue benefits through December 31, 2011. Mr. R.E. Dauch Mr. Lancaster and Mr. Bellanti arewere grandfathered and will continuethus continued to accrue benefits through December 31, 2011. The NEOs did not accrue benefits under the program throughplan in 2012.

Albion Pension Plan.    The annual retirement benefit payable, commencing on retirement at or after age 65, is based on the earlierexecutive’s average salary (determined as the average of (1) December 31, 2011 or (2) the dateexecutive’s base salary in the highest 36 months during the final 10 years of retirement or other terminationservice with Albion Automotive Limited), years of employment.

pensionable service and the percentage of participant contributions made to the plan. Benefits under the Albion Pension Plan will be paid as an annuity; however, a participant may elect to receive a portion of the benefit payable in a lump sum.

Supplemental Executive Retirement Program.    Mr. R.E. Dauch Mr. Lancaster and Mr. Bellanti, who were grandfathered under the Salaried Retirement Program, are eligible to receive the basic form of pension benefit under our SERP upon retirement. In addition, they are eligible to receive the alternative form of benefit, if greater than the basic benefit, upon retirement at or after age 62. The executive must have at least 10 years of credited service to receive either form of benefit under the SERP.

The total monthly benefit payable under the basic form of SERP is equal to the following amount:

Two percent of the executive’s average monthly salary calculated as of December 31, 2011 (as determined for the Salaried Retirement Program excluding the limitations as specified under the Internal Revenue Code), multiplied by the executive’s years of credited service; less

The benefit payable to the executive under the Salaried Retirement Program (without reduction for survivor benefits), plus 2% of the maximum monthly social security benefit payable at age 65 multiplied by the executive’s years of credited service.

• Two percent of the executive’s average monthly salary (as determined for the Salaried Retirement Program excluding the limitations as specified under the Internal Revenue Code), multiplied by the executive’s years of credited service; less
• The benefit payable to the executive under the Salaried Retirement Program (without reduction for survivor benefits), plus two percent of the maximum monthly social security benefit payable at age 65 multiplied by the executive’s years of credited service.

The Compensation Committee has discretion to reduce or eliminate the amount payable under the alternative form of benefit. Subject to the Compensation Committee’s discretion, the total monthly benefit payable under the alternative form of SERP is equal to the following amount:

1.5% of the executive’s average monthly salary calculated as of December 31, 2011 (as determined for the Salaried Retirement Program excluding the limitations as specified under the Internal Revenue Code) and average monthly incentive compensation (determined as the average of the highest five of the executive’s last 10 annual cash incentive awards, divided by 12) multiplied by the executive’s years of credited service; less

The benefit payable to the executive under the Salaried Retirement Program (without reduction for survivor benefits), plus the maximum monthly social security benefit payable at age 65.

• 1.5 percent of the executive’s average monthly salary (as determined for the Salaried Retirement Program excluding the limitations as specified under the Internal Revenue Code) and average monthly incentive compensation (determined as the average of the highest five of the executive’s last 10 annual cash incentive awards, divided by 12) multiplied by the executive’s years of credited service; less
• The benefit payable to the executive under the Salaried Retirement Program (without reduction for survivor benefits), plus the maximum monthly social security benefit payable at age 65.

SERP benefits payable under the basic and alternative forms are generally paid as a single life annuity. If the executive’s spouse is eligible for survivor benefits under the Salaried Retirement Program, however, the executive’s monthly SERP benefit will be reduced and paid in the form of a joint and survivor annuity.

Effective January 1, 2007, the SERP was amended to change the benefit accrual formulae for executives who are not grandfathered under the Salaried Retirement Program. Because they are grandfathered, Mr. R.E. Dauch and Mr. Bellanti may continue to accrue SERP benefits under the basic and alternative forms through December 31, 2011.
Mr. Simonte,

Mr. D.C. Dauch, Mr. Simonte and Mr. Jerge,Willemse, who arewere not grandfathered under the Salaried Retirement Program, are eligible to receive a defined contribution benefit under the current SERP formula, payable six months after retirement in a lump sum. The amount of the benefit will be equal to 12.5 percent12.5% of the executive’s final average compensation (determined as the executive’s average annual base salary and cash incentive for the highest five consecutive years), multiplied by the executive’s years of credited service, less the sum of the actuarially equivalent value of the executive’s benefits payable under the Salaried Retirement Program, Albion Pension Plan and the balance of the executive’s retirement contribution account under ourAAM’s 401(k) plan.


40


Effective August 1, 2012, the SERP was amended and restated to implement actuarial increases for participants who remain employed after reaching age 65. As a result, participants who work past age 65 will receive an increased annual SERP benefit when they retire to reflect a shorter expected payment period due to delayed retirement. This amendment had an impact on Mr. R.E. Dauch’s SERP benefit for 2012, which is shown in theSummary Compensation Table. The amended and restated SERP also provides that a participant’s entire SERP benefit will be forfeited if the participant’s employment with AAM is terminated for cause (as defined in the plan).

NONQUALIFIED DEFERRED COMPENSATION

The following table summarizes the NEOs compensation under the Executive Deferred Compensation Plan for the 20102012 fiscal year. All of the NEOs are fully vested in any applicable Company matching contributions.

                          
   Executive
   Registrant
   Aggregate
   Aggregate
   Aggregate
 
   Contributions
   contributions in
   Earnings
   Withdrawals
   Balance at
 
   in Last FY
   Last FY
   In Last FY(1)
   Distributions
   Last FYE
 
 Name  ($)   ($)   ($)   ($)   ($) 
Richard E. Dauch           360,214        4,865,696 
Michael K. Simonte                    
David C. Dauch           30,545        263,066 
John J. Bellanti           58,046        498,071 
John E. Jerge                    
Patrick S. Lancaster                    
                          

Name  Executive
Contributions
in Last FY(1)
($)
   Registrant
contributions in
Last FY(2)
($)
   Aggregate
Earnings
In Last FY(3)
($)
   Aggregate
Withdrawals
Distributions
($)
   Aggregate
Balance at
Last FYE(4)
($)
 

David C. Dauch

             38,630          301,238  

Michael K. Simonte

                         

Richard E. Dauch

             532,099          5,502,317  

John J. Bellanti

             65,112          567,875  

Norman Willemse

   25,264     513     1,595          27,372  

(1)For Mr. Willemse, reflects $17,083 of his 2012 base salary and $8,181 of his 2011 annual incentive award paid March 2012. Base salary amounts deferred are included in the salary column for 2012 in theSummary Compensation Table and the 2011 annual incentive award deferred is included in the non-equity incentive compensation column for 2011 in theSummary Compensation Table.

(2)Reflects the Company 3% match on 2012 base salary deferred by Mr. Willemse. Amount is included in the all other compensation column for 2012 in theSummary Compensation Table.

(3)Reflects hypothetical accrued earnings during 20102012 on notional investments designed to track the performance of funds similar to those available to participants in the Company’s 401(k) plan. None of the earnings shown in this column are reported as compensation in theSummary Compensation Table.

(4)Of the aggregate balance, the amounts reflect compensation previously reported in the Summary Compensation Table for each of the NEOs. For Mr. Willemse, the amount includes $17,596 reported as compensation in theSummary Compensation Table for 2012.

Under AAM’s Executive Deferred Compensation Plan, a nonqualified, tax-deferred savings plan, certain executives, including our NEOs, may elect to defer the payment of six6% to 75 percent75% of their base salaryand/or their annual incentive compensation award during any plan year. Base salary deferred into the Executive Deferred Compensation Planplan receives a three percent3% Company match. Matching contributions are vested after five years of credited service. The amounts deferred are unfunded and unsecured obligations of AAM.

Amounts deferred or credited into this plan are represented in the executive’s notional account and are “invested” among funds similar to those available under the Company’sAAM’s 401(k) plan. Forty percent of deferral elections are automatically and irrevocably allocated to the restricted investment benchmark, the PIMCO Total Return Fund. The remaining 60 percent of deferral elections60% may be allocated by the executive to any of the investments available under the plan and may be reallocated on a daily basis among any of the investments available under the plan.available. Although the executive has no actual or constructive ownership of shares in the investment funds, the return on the executive’s account is determined as if the amounts were notionally invested in these funds.


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The table below shows the investment fund options available under the Executive Deferred Compensation Plan and the annual rates of return for the calendar year ended December 31, 2010.
          
   Rate of
     Rate of
Name of Fund  Return  Name of Fund  Return
Fidelity Retirement Money Market Portfolio  .02%  Fidelity Freedom Income Fund  7.63%
PIMCO Total Return Fund  8.83%  Fidelity Freedom 2000 Fund  7.86%
PIMCO High Yield Fund  14.24%  Fidelity Freedom 2005 Fund  10.57%
Fifth Third Disciplined Large Cap Value Fund  13.44%  Fidelity Freedom 2010 Fund  11.65%
Domini Social Equity Fund  14.36%  Fidelity Freedom 2015 Fund  11.75%
Spartan U.S. Equity Index Fund  14.98%  Fidelity Freedom 2020 Fund  12.93%
American Funds Growth Fund of America  12.63%  Fidelity Freedom 2025 Fund  13.82%
Fidelity Growth Company Fund  20.55%  Fidelity Freedom 2030 Fund  14.04%
Fidelity Low-Priced Stock Fund  20.70%  Fidelity Freedom 2035 Fund  14.46%
Nuveen Mid Cap Growth Opportunities(1)
  27.91%  Fidelity Freedom 2040 Fund  14.62%
American Beacon Small Cap Value Fund  26.19%  Fidelity Freedom 2045 Fund  14.72%
Munder Small Cap Value Fund  27.16%  Fidelity Freedom 2050 Fund  14.90%
Fidelity Diversified International Fund  9.65%      
Spartan International Index Fund  7.70%      
Vanguard External Market Index  27.37%      
          
(1)Formerly First American Mid Cap Growth Opportunities.
2012.

Name of Fund Rate of
Return
   Name of Fund Rate of
Return
 

Fidelity Retirement Money Market Portfolio

  .01%    

Vanguard External Market Index

  18.48%  

PIMCO Total Return Fund

  10.36%    

Fidelity Freedom Income K Fund

  6.36%  

PIMCO High Yield Fund

  14.55%    

Fidelity Freedom K 2000 Fund

  6.44%  

Domini Social Equity Fund

  11.75%    

Fidelity Freedom K 2005 Fund

  8.77%  

Spartan U.S. Equity Index Fund

  15.96%    

Fidelity Freedom K 2010 Fund

  10.53%  

Touchstone Value Y Fund

  15.38%    

Fidelity Freedom K 2015 Fund

  10.81%  

American Funds Growth Fund of America

  20.92%    

Fidelity Freedom K 2020 Fund

  11.86%  

Fidelity Growth Company Fund

  18.52%    

Fidelity Freedom K 2025 Fund

  13.26%  

Fidelity Low-Priced Stock Fund

  18.50%    

Fidelity Freedom K 2030 Fund

  13.65%  

Nuveen Mid Cap Growth Opportunities

  15.12%    

Fidelity Freedom K 2035 Fund

  14.60%  

American Beacon Small Cap Value Fund

  16.52%    

Fidelity Freedom K 2040 Fund

  14.61%  

Royce PA Mutual Fund

  14.58%    

Fidelity Freedom K 2045 Fund

  14.97%  

Fidelity Diversified International Fund

  19.41%    

Fidelity Freedom K 2050 Fund

  15.23%  

Spartan International Index Fund

  18.78%    Fidelity Freedom K 2055 Fund  15.39%  

Distributions can be received (1) upon retirement in a lump sum or in annual payments over a period of five or ten years, (2) in a lump sum upon death, disability, termination of employment, change in control or (3) if elected by the executive, during employment at a specified date after a minimum deferral period. The minimum deferral period is at least three years following the end of the plan year to which the deferral election relates, and distributions during employment consist of employee deferrals and related earnings or losses (not the Company contributions and related earnings or losses).


42


POTENTIAL PAYMENTS UPON TERMINATION OR CHANGE IN CONTROL
Under the employment agreement with our CEO and other arrangements covering our NEOs, certain payments and benefits will be provided to the NEOs in the event of termination of employment.

The following tables show the estimated potential payments and benefits that each of the NEOs would receive upon termination of employment under different scenarios,various circumstances that would trigger payments under applicable employment agreements and the Company’s plans and programs, assuming that the termination was effectiveevent occurred on December 31, 2010.

Termination2012. Although the calculations are intended to provide reasonable estimates of Continuitythe potential payments, they are based on numerous assumptions, as described in the footnotes, and may not represent the actual amount NEOs would receive upon each termination event.

President & CEO and Executive Chairman Employment Agreements

Prior to 2009, all executive officers had continuity agreements with the Company, which provided certain severance benefits following a change in control. In accordance with the 2009 Settlement and Commercial Agreement, all executive officers agreed to terminate their continuity agreements in 2009.
CEO Employment Agreement

Under our employment agreementagreements with Mr. D.C. Dauch and Mr. R.E. Dauch, the Company may terminate hiseach executive’s employment with or without cause, or upon disability. With respect to each executive, cause means:

a material breach of his disability. Cause exists if he:obligations under the agreement;

• is convicted of a felony involving an intentional act;
• engages in dishonesty or fraud; or
• breaches any of his material obligations to AAM, including willful neglect or misconduct of his duties or willful and material breach of any of the terms and conditions of his employment agreement.

the willful and continued failure or refusal to satisfactorily perform his duties;

a conviction of or pleading guilty (or no contest) to a felony or to another crime involving dishonesty or moral turpitude or which reflects negatively upon the Company or impairs its operations;

engaging in any misconduct, negligence, act of dishonesty (including any violation of federal securities laws) or violence that is materially injurious to the Company;

a material breach of a restrictive covenant (i.e., non-competition, non-solicitation) or Company policy;

refusal to follow the directions of the Board; or

any other willful misconduct that is materially injurious to the financial condition or business reputation.

In addition, heeach executive may resign for good reason, meaningwhich means:

a material decrease in compensation or a failure by the Company:Company to pay material compensation;

• reduces his base salary or bonus opportunity;
• substantially reduces his duties, responsibilities or reporting responsibilities; or
• relocates him outside of the Detroit-metropolitan area.

a material diminution of responsibilities, positions or titles (other than solely as a result of the Company ceasing to be a publicly-traded company);

If his employment is terminated

relocation outside the Detroit-metropolitan area; or

a material breach by the Company.

Upon termination for cause Mr. R.E. Dauch will be entitled toor upon resignation without good reason, each executive would receive only accrued butand unpaid amounts as ofcompensation. Participation in the termination date.

Company’s benefit plans would cease upon termination.

If his employment is terminated without cause, or if he resignsupon resignation for good reason, he will be entitled to:

• severance payments equal to two years of his annual base salary;
• continuation of his health care benefits for two years;
• bonus payments accrued as of the termination date; and
• reimbursement of premiums for his purchase of a $5 million executive life insurance policy for two years.
If he resigns without good reason, Mr. R.E. Dauch will be entitled to (1)each executive would receive accrued butand unpaid amounts ascompensation and continued payment of the termination date and (2) reimbursement of premiumsbase salary for two years following termination. Mr. D.C. Dauch would also receive $50,000 of outplacement services and health care benefits for two years.

If Mr. R.E. Dauch’s employment is terminated for any reason other than for cause or upon his death, the Company will continue to reimburse premiums paid on a $5 million executive life insurance policy purchased byfor two years.

The employment agreements for Mr. R.E. Dauch.

Under the employment agreement,D.C. Dauch and Mr. R.E. Dauch is subject to:contain the following restrictive covenants that extend for two years following termination of employment or expiration of the employment agreement:

non-disclosure and confidentiality, which prohibit unauthorized use or disclosure of AAM’s confidential information;

• a non-disclosure

non-competition, which prohibits each of them from directly or indirectly engaging in any business that competes with AAM; and confidentiality provision extending two years following termination or expiration of the agreement;

• a non-competition covenant, which prohibits him, throughout the term of the employment agreement and for two years following the termination or expiration of the agreement, from directly or indirectly engaging in any business competitive with AAM and our products and business plans; and a covenant prohibiting solicitation of our employees and customers for two years thereafter.


43


non-solicitation, which prohibits solicitation of our employees and customers.

If employment with AAM terminates his employment due to disability, Mr. D.C. Dauch and Mr. R.E. Dauch will be entitled to accrued benefits under applicable benefit plans and programs (such as our Deferred Compensation Plan, Salaried Retirement Plan and SERP) and reimbursement of executive life insurance premiums as described above.. Should Mr. D.C. Dauch or Mr. R.E. Dauch die during the term of his employment agreement, his estateand/or spouse would be entitled to accrued benefits under applicable benefit plans and programs.
In accordance with his employment agreement, as amended, the CEO agreed to forego compensation payable to him to the extent his annual compensation would exceed the $3 million limit.
Settlement Agreement with Mr. Lancaster
On July 12, 2010, the Compensation Committee approved an agreement between AAM and Mr. Lancaster to provide cash payments and certain other benefits to Mr. Lancaster in connection with his retirement from AAM effective January 1, 2011. The terms of the Settlement Agreement are described in theNarrative to Summary Compensation Table and Grants of Plan-Based Awards Table.

Non-Competition Agreements

Mr. Simonte, Mr. D.C. Dauch, Mr. Bellanti and Mr. JergeWillemse have each entered into a non-competition agreement that prohibits, while employed by AAM and for one year following termination of employment, theeach executive from:

directly or indirectly engaging in any business that competes with AAM;

soliciting or inducing our employees to leave AAM, or offering employment to our employees or otherwise interfering with our relationship with our employees, agents or consultants; and

• directly or indirectly engaging in any business or activity that is in competition with AAM and its products for one year following termination of employment unless the reason for such termination is a reduction in force by AAM;
• recruiting, soliciting or inducing (or attempting to recruit, solicit or induce) any of our employees to leave AAM, or offer employment to our employees or otherwise interfere with our relationship with our employees, agents or consultants; and
• 

using, exploiting or disclosing or communicating our confidential information to any third party without our prior written consent.


44


Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control

Richard E.David C. Dauch

The following table shows estimated potential payments to Mr. D.C. Dauch upon termination, retirement and a change in controlresignation for Mr. R.E. Dauch. Mr. R.E. Dauch was eligible to retire on December 31, 2010. The assumptions used to determine retirement benefits are the same assumptions used in our audited consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010.

                          
      Not for
         
   For Cause
  Cause
  Disability
     Change in
   Termination
  Termination
  Retirement(1)
  Retirement
  Control
   ($)  ($)  ($)  ($)  ($)
Compensation:
                    
Bonus(2)
                    
Severance(3)
                    
Retirement Plans:
                         
Defined Benefit
                         
Retirement Program(4)
           843,319    843,319     
SERP(5)
           22,862,681    22,862,681     
Welfare Benefit(6)
           1,440,270    1,440,270     
Equity:
                    
Stock Options(7)
           1,147,635        1,147,635 
Restricted Stock(8)
           765,067        765,067 
Other Benefits:
                    
Deferred Compensation(9)
   4,865,696    4,865,696    4,865,696    4,865,696    4,865,696 
Health care(10)
       17,858             
Life Insurance(11)
       47,780    47,780    47,780     
Use of Vehicles(3)
                    
280G TaxGross-Up(3)
                    
Total
   4,865,696    4,931,334    31,972,448    30,059,746    6,778,398 
                          
(1)Assumes retirement due to total and permanent disability on December 31, 2010.
(2)Assumes $3 million compensation limit is in effect on December 31, 2010.
(3)Benefit was previously provided under the continuity agreement that was terminated in 2009.
(4)Reflects a present value of a joint and survivor annuity benefit payable monthly.
(5)The present value calculated under the alternative formula assuming a joint and survivor annuity benefit payable monthly.
(6)Reflects benefits for Mr. R.E. Dauch and his spouse assuming retirement or disability on December 31, 2010 as set forth in his employment agreement.
(7)Generally, outstanding stock option awards vest upon termination of employment due to death, disability or upon a change in control. At December 31, 2010, the fair market value of the underlying shares was greater than the exercise price of certain unvested options.
(8)Vesting of outstanding restricted stock awards is accelerated upon disability, termination of employment by the Company pursuant to a reduction in force or similar program approved by the CEO or upon a change in control. The value of restricted stock reflects the fair market value of unvested awards.
(9)Assumes amount is payable in a lump sum upon occurrence of termination event.


45


(10)Upongood reason, termination without cause, Mr. R.E. Dauch would receive two years of health care benefits.
(11)Represents reimbursement for the premiums associated with Mr. R.E. Dauch’s purchase of a $5 million executive life insurance policy for two years.
Michael K. Simonte
The following table shows estimated potential payments upon resignation, termination, disability and a change in control for Mr. Simonte as of December 31, 2010. Mr. Simonte was not eligible to retire as of December 31, 2010.
                     
         Disability
  Change in
   Resignation
  Termination
  Retirement(1)
  Control
   ($)  ($)  ($)  ($)
Compensation:
                
Bonus(2)
                
Severance(2)
                
Long Term Incentives:
                
Stock Options(3)
           11,468    11,468 
PARS and RSUs(4)
           154,320    154,320 
Restricted Stock(5)
           128,600    128,600 
2009 Performance Award(6)
           337,500    506,250 
2010 Performance Award(7)
           200,000     
Other Benefits:
                
Health care(8)
           237,857     
Disability(9)
           4,078,916     
Life Insurance(10)
           59,822     
Use of Vehicles(2)
                
280G TaxGross-Up(2)
                
Total
           5,208,483    800,638 
                     
(1)Assumes total and permanent disability on December 31, 2010. Because Mr. Simonte has more than 10 years of service, he is eligible to retire due to total and permanent disability and receive pension and postretiree health care benefits. Amount assumes continued employment (on leave) until retirement.
(2)Benefit was previously provided under the continuity agreement that was terminated in 2009.
(3)Generally, outstanding stock option awards vest upon termination of employment due to death, disability2012. Upon termination for cause or upon a change in control. At December 31, 2010, the fair market value of the underlying shares was greater than the exercise price of certain unvested options.
(4)Outstanding PARS and RSU awards vest upon termination of employment due to death, disability or upon a change in control. The value for PARS and RSUs reflects the fair market value of unvested awards.
(5)Vesting of outstanding restricted stock awards is accelerated upon disability, termination of employment by the Company pursuant to a reduction in force or similar program approved by the CEO or upon a change in control. The value for restricted stock reflects the fair market value of unvested awards.
(6)The 2009 performance award payable to Mr. Simonte in the event of a disability would be based on actual performance and on the pro-rata portion of his employment as compared to the


46


performance period. As of December 31, 2010, two-thirds of the performance period would have lapsed. Reflects pro-rata award assuming target is achieved. Upon a change in control, the award is payable at target.
(7)The 2010 performance award payable to Mr. Simonte in the event of a disability would be based on actual performance and on the pro-rata portion of his employment as compared to the performance period. As of December 31, 2010, one-third of the performance period would have lapsed. Reflects pro-rata award assuming target is achieved. The 2010 awards do not include a provision for payment upon change in control.
(8)Under the disability scenario, reflects health care benefits until retirement.
(9)Reflects benefits equal to 100% of base salary for year one and 662/3% of base salary until retirement.
(10)Under the disability scenario, reflects basic and supplemental life insurance benefits until retirement.
David C. Dauch
The following table shows estimated potential payments upon resignation termination, disability and a change in control forwithout good reason, Mr. D.C. Dauch as of December 31, 2010.would receive only accrued and unpaid compensation. These amounts are not shown in the table below. Mr. D.C. Dauch was not eligible to retire as of December 31, 2010.
                     
         Disability
  Change in
   Resignation
  Termination
  Retirement(1)
  Control
   ($)  ($)  ($)  ($)
Compensation:
                
Bonus(2)
                
Severance(2)
                
Long Term Incentives:
                
Stock Options(3)
           14,220    14,220 
PARS and RSUs(4)
           199,330    199,330 
Restricted Stock(5)
           154,320    154,320 
2009 Performance Award(6)
           621,000    931,500 
2010 Performance Award(7)
           336,000     
Other Benefits:
                
Deferred Compensation(8)
   263,066    263,066    263,066    263,066 
Health care(9)
           241,068     
Disability(10)
           4,885,679     
Life Insurance(11)
           80,062     
Use of Vehicles(2)
                
280G TaxGross-Up(2)
                
Total
   263,066    263,066    6,794,745    1,562,436 
                     
2012.

    For Good
Reason
Resignation
($)
   Without
Cause
Termination
($)
   Disability
Retirement(1)
($)
   Change in
Control
($)
 

Compensation:

                    

Severance(2)

   2,000,000     2,000,000            

Annual Incentive(3)

   540,000     540,000     540,000       

Long Term Incentives:

                    

RSUs(4)

             1,139,129     1,139,129  

2010 Performance Awards(5)

        1,209,600     1,209,600       

2011 Performance Awards(6)

        780,000     780,000       

2012 Performance Unit Awards(7)

        240,485     240,485     240,485  

Special Incentive Program(8)

   1,750,000     1,750,000     1,750,000       

Other Benefits:

                    

Deferred Compensation(9)

   301,238     301,238     301,238     301,238  

Health care(10)

   26,676     26,676     322,562       

Disability(11)

             7,756,067       

Life Insurance(12)

             139,920       

Outplacement Services(13)

   50,000     50,000            

Total

   4,667,914     6,897,999     14,179,001     1,680,852  

(1)Assumes total and permanent disability on December 31, 2010.2012. Because Mr. D.C. Dauch has more than 10 years of service, he is eligible to retire due to total and permanent disability and receive pension and postretiree health care benefits. Amount assumes continued employment (on leave) until retirement.

  
(2)Benefit was previously provided under the continuity agreement that was terminated in 2009.Upon termination without cause or resignation for good reason, Mr. D.C. Dauch is entitled to receive two years’ base salary payable semimonthly.

  
(3)Generally, outstanding stock option awards vestUnder AAM’s Incentive Compensation Plan for Executive Officers, the award payout is pro-rated through the date of disability. Under Mr. D.C. Dauch’s employment agreement, he is entitled to accrued and unpaid compensation upon termination of employment due to death, disabilitywithout cause or upon a changeresignation for good reason. The amount reflects the 2012 award paid in control. At December 31, 2010, the fair market value of the underlying shares was greater than the exercise price of certain unvested options.March 2013.


47


(4)Outstanding PARS and RSU awardsRSUs vest upon termination of employment due to death, disability or upon a change in control. The value for PARS and RSUs reflects the fair market valuenumber of unvested awards.
(5)Vesting of outstanding restricted stock awards is accelerated upon disability, termination of employmentRSUs multiplied by the Company pursuant to a reduction in force or similar program approved by the CEO or upon a change in control. The value for restrictedclosing price of AAM stock reflects the fair market value of unvested awards.on December 31, 2012.

  
(6)(5)The 20092010 performance award payable to Mr. D.C. Dauchin the event of disability or termination without cause would be based on actual performance through December 31, 2012. Reflects award earned through December 31, 2012 and paid in March 2013.

  (6)The 2011 performance award payable in the event of a disability or termination without cause would be based on actual performance and on the pro-rata portion of his employment as compared to the performance period. As of December 31, 2010,2012, two-thirds of the performance period would have lapsed. Reflects pro-rata award assuming target is achieved. Upon a change in control, the award is payable at target.The actual payout may range from 0% to 200%.

  
(7)

The 20102012 performance awardunit awards payable to Mr. D.C. Dauch in the event of a disability, termination without cause or upon a change in control would be based on actual performance and on the pro-rata portion of his

employment as compared to the performance period.periods for each award. As of December 31, 2010, one-third2012, approximately 25% of the performance periodperiods would have lapsed. Reflects pro-rata award assuming target is achieved. The 2010 awards doactual payout may range from 0% to 200%.

  (8)Under the special incentive program, in the event of disability, resignation for good reason or termination without cause, Mr. D.C. Dauch is entitled to program amounts earned and not include a provision for payment upon change in control.previously paid. Reflects the remaining two annual installments of $875,000.

  
(8)(9)Assumes amount is payable in a lump sum upon occurrence of termination event.

(9)(10)Under Mr. D.C. Dauch’s employment agreement, he is entitled to two years of health care benefits (including his spouse) if his employment is terminated without cause or if he resigns for good reason. Under the disability scenario, reflects health care benefits tountil retirement.

(10)(11)Reflects benefits equal to 100% of base salary for year one and 60% of base salary tountil retirement.

(11)(12)Under the disability scenario, reflects basic and supplemental life insurance benefits to retirement.until retirement at age 65.


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John J. Bellanti
The following table shows the estimated potential payments upon termination, retirement and a change in control for Mr. Bellanti as of December 31, 2010. Mr. Bellanti was eligible to retire on December 31, 2010. The assumptions used to determine retirement benefits are the same assumptions used in our audited consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010.
                     
      Disability
     Change in
   Termination
  Retirement(1)
  Retirement
  Control
   ($)  ($)  ($)  ($)
Compensation:
                
Bonus(2)
                
Severance(2)
                
Retirement Plans:
                
Defined Benefit
                
Retirement Program(3)
       972,382    661,351     
SERP(4)
       265,752    614,249     
Welfare Benefit(5)
       120,377    120,377     
Equity:
                
Stock Options(6)
       10,091        10,091 
PARS and RSUs(7)
       154,320        154,320 
Restricted Stock(8)
       115,740        115,740 
2009 Performance Award(9)
       315,000    315,000    472,500 
2010 Performance Award(10)
       184,000    184,000     
Other Benefits:
                
Deferred Compensation(11)
   498,071    498,071    498,071    498,071 
Use of Vehicles(2)
                
280G TaxGross-Up(2)
                
Total
   498,071    2,635,733    2,393,048    1,250,722 
                     
(13)
(1)Assumes retirement dueUnder Mr. D.C. Dauch’s employment agreement, he is entitled to total and permanent disability on December 31, 2010.
(2)Benefit was previously provided under the continuity agreement that wasreceive $50,000 of outplacement services if his employment is terminated in 2009.
(3)Reflects a joint and survivor annuity benefit payable monthly.
(4)The present value calculated under the alternative formula assuming a joint and survivor annuity benefit payable monthly under the disability and retirement scenarios.
(5)Reflects benefitswithout cause or if he resigns for Mr. Bellanti and his spouse assuming retirement on December 31, 2010 under the welfare benefit plan effective January 1, 2008.
(6)Generally, outstanding stock option awards vest upon termination of employment due to death, disability or upon a change in control. At December 31, 2010, the fair market value of the underlying shares was greater than the exercise price of certain unvested options.
(7)Outstanding PARS and RSU awards vest upon termination of employment due to death, disability or upon a change in control. The value for PARS and RSUs reflects the fair market value of unvested awards.good reason.


49

Michael K. Simonte


(8)Vesting of outstanding restricted stock awards is accelerated upon disability, termination of employment by the Company pursuant to a reduction in force or similar program approved by the CEO or upon a change in control. The value of restricted stock reflects the fair market value of unvested awards.
(9)The 2009 performance award payable to Mr. Bellanti in the event of a disability or retirement would be based on actual performance and on the pro-rata portion of his employment as compared to the performance period. As of December 31, 2010, two-thirds of the performance period would have lapsed. Reflects pro-rata award assuming target is achieved. Upon a change in control, the award is payable at target.
(10)The 2010 performance award payable to Mr. Bellanti in the event of a disability would be based on actual performance and on the pro-rata portion of his employment as compared to the performance period. As of December 31, 2010, one-third of the performance period would have lapsed. Reflects pro-rata award assuming target is achieved. The 2010 awards do not include a provision for payment upon change in control.
(11)Assumes amount is payable in a lump sum upon occurrence of termination event.
John E. Jerge
The following table shows estimated potential payments to Mr. Simonte upon resignation for good reason, termination without cause, disability and a change in control for Mr. Jerge as of December 31, 2010.2012. Upon termination for cause or upon resignation without good reason, Mr. JergeSimonte would receive only accrued and unpaid compensation. These amounts are not shown in the table below. Mr. Simonte was not eligible to retire as of December 31, 2010.
                     
         Disability
  Change in
   Resignation
  Termination
  Retirement(1)
  Control
   ($)  ($)  ($)  ($)
Compensation:
                
Bonus(2)
                
Severance(2)
                
Long Term Incentives:
                
Stock Options(3)
           8,257    8,257 
PARS and RSUs(4)
           147,890    147,890 
Restricted Stock(5)
           90,020    90,020 
2009 Performance Award(6)
           162,000    243,000 
2010 Performance Award(7)
           76,000     
Other Benefits:
                
Health care(8)
           216,631     
Disability(9)
           2,000,624     
Life Insurance(10)
           36,246     
Use of Vehicles(2)
                
280G TaxGross-Up(2)
                
Total
           2,737,668    489,167 
                     
2012.

    For Good
Reason
Resignation
($)
   Without
Cause
Termination
($)
   Disability
Retirement(1)
($)
   Change in
Control
($)
 

Compensation:

                    

Annual Incentive(2)

             220,000       

Long Term Incentives:

                    

RSUs(3)

             386,019     386,019  

2010 Performance Awards(4)

        720,000     720,000       

2011 Performance Awards(5)

        412,000     412,000       

2012 Performance Unit Award(6)

        86,384     86,384     86,384  

Special Incentive Program(7)

   1,000,000     1,000,000     1,000,000       

Other Benefits:

                    

Health care(8)

             318,431       

Disability(9)

             4,428,641       

Life Insurance(10)

             73,864       

Total

   1,000,000     2,218,384     7,645,339     472,403  

(1)Assumes total and permanent disability on December 31, 2010.2012. Because Mr. JergeSimonte has more than 10 years of service, he is eligible to retire due to total and permanent disability and receive pension and postretiree health care benefits. Amount assumes continued employment (on leave) until retirement.

  
(2)Benefit was previously provided underUnder AAM’s Incentive Compensation Plan for Executive Officers, the continuity agreement that was terminatedaward payout is pro-rated through the date of disability. The amount reflects the 2012 award paid in 2009.March 2013.


50


(3)Outstanding RSUs vest upon termination of employment due to death, disability or upon a change in control. The value reflects the number of RSUs multiplied by the closing price of AAM stock on December 31, 2012.

  (4)Generally, outstandingThe 2010 performance award payable in the event of disability or termination without cause would be based on actual performance through December 31, 2012. Reflects award earned through December 31, 2012 and paid in March 2013.

  (5)The 2011 performance award payable in the event of a disability or termination without cause would be based on actual performance and the pro-rata portion of employment as compared to the performance period. As of December 31, 2012, two-thirds of the performance period would have lapsed. Reflects pro-rata award assuming target is achieved. The actual payout may range from 0% to 200%.

  (6)The 2012 performance unit award payable in the event of a disability, termination without cause or upon a change in control would be based on actual performance and the pro-rata portion of employment as compared to the performance period. As of December 31, 2012, approximately 27% of the performance period would have lapsed. Reflects pro-rata award assuming target is achieved. The actual payout may range from 0% to 200%.

  (7)Under the special incentive program, in the event of disability, resignation for good reason or termination without cause, Mr. Simonte is entitled to award amounts earned and not previously paid. Reflects the remaining two annual installments of $500,000.

  (8)Under the disability scenario, reflects health care benefits until retirement.

  (9)Reflects benefits equal to 100% of base salary for year one and 66 2/3% of base salary until retirement.

(10)Under the disability scenario, reflects basic and supplemental life insurance benefits until retirement at age 65.

Richard E. Dauch

The following table shows estimated potential payments to Mr. R.E. Dauch upon resignation for good reason, termination without cause, disability, retirement and a change in control as of December 31, 2012. Upon termination for cause or upon resignation without good reason, Mr. R.E. Dauch would receive only accrued and unpaid compensation. These amounts are not shown in the table below. Mr. R.E. Dauch was eligible to retire on December 31, 2012. The assumptions used to determine retirement benefits are the same assumptions used in our audited consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012. See Note 6 to the audited consolidated financial statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K.

    For Good
Reason
Resignation
($)
   Without
Cause
Termination
($)
   Disability
Retirement(1)
($)
   Retirement
($)
   Change in
Control
($)
 

Compensation:

                         

Severance(2)

   4,000,000     4,000,000                 

Bonus(3)

   4,000,000     4,000,000     4,000,000     4,000,000       

Retirement Plans:

                         

Defined Benefit

                         

Retirement Program(4)

             991,169     991,169       

SERP(5)

             29,718,734     29,718,734       

Welfare Benefit(6)

             1,391,904     1,391,904       

Equity:

                         

Stock Options(7)

             301,500          301,500  

RSUs(8)

             7,027,921          7,027,921  

Other Benefits:

                         

Deferred Compensation(9)

   5,502,317     5,502,317     5,502,317     5,502,317     5,502,317  

Life Insurance(10)

   47,780     47,780     47,780     47,780       

Total

   13,550,097     13,550,097     48,981,325     41,651,904     12,831,738  

  (1)Assumes retirement due to total and permanent disability on December 31, 2012.

  (2)Upon termination without cause or resignation for good reason, Mr. R.E. Dauch is entitled to receive two years’ base salary payable semimonthly.

  (3)Reflects Mr. R.E. Dauch’s cash bonus earned in 2012 and paid in March 2013.

  (4)Reflects a present value of a joint and survivor annuity benefit payable monthly.

  (5)The present value calculated assuming a joint and survivor annuity benefit payable monthly.

  (6)Reflects benefits for Mr. R.E. Dauch and his spouse assuming retirement or disability on December 31, 2012.

  (7)Outstanding stock option awards vest upon termination of employment due to death, disability or upon a change in control. At December 31, 2010,The value reflects the fair market value of the underlying shares was greater thandifference between the exercise price of certainthe unvested options.options and the closing price of AAM stock on December 31, 2012.

  
(4)(8)Outstanding PARS and RSU awardsRSUs vest upon termination of employment due to death, disability or upon a change in control. The value for PARS and RSUs reflects the fair marketnumber of RSUs multiplied by the closing price of AAM stock on December 31, 2012.

  (9)Assumes amount is payable in a lump sum upon occurrence of termination event.

(10)Represents reimbursement of two years’ premiums paid by Mr. R.E. Dauch for a $5 million executive life insurance policy.

John J. Bellanti

The following table shows estimated potential payments to Mr. Bellanti upon resignation for good reason, termination without cause, disability, retirement and a change in control as of December 31, 2012. Upon termination for cause or upon resignation without good reason, Mr. Bellanti would receive only accrued and unpaid compensation. These amounts are not shown in the table below. Mr. Bellanti was eligible to retire on December 31, 2012. The assumptions used to determine retirement benefits are the same assumptions used in our audited consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012. See Note 6 to the audited consolidated financial statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K.

    For Good
Reason
Resignation
($)
   Without
Cause
Termination
($)
   Disability
Retirement(1)
($)
   Retirement
($)
   Change in
Control
($)
 

Compensation:

                         

Annual Incentive(2)

             140,000     140,000       

Retirement Plans:

                         

Defined Benefit

                         

Retirement Program(3)

             1,211,666     966,672       

SERP(4)

             644,007     917,081       

Welfare Benefit(5)

             219,800     219,800       

Equity:

                         

RSUs(6)

             355,163          355,163  

2010 Performance Awards(7)

        662,400     662,400     662,400       

2011 Performance Awards(8)

        379,040     379,040     379,040       

2012 Performance Unit Award(9)

        79,478     79,478     79,478     79,478  

Special Incentive Program(10)

   300,000     300,000     300,000            

Other Benefits:

                         

Deferred Compensation(11)

   567,875     567,875     567,875     567,875     567,875  

Total

   867,875     1,988,793     4,559,429     3,932,346     1,002,516  

  (1)Assumes retirement due to total and permanent disability on December 31, 2012.

  (2)Under AAM’s Incentive Compensation Plan for Executive Officers, the award payout is pro-rated through the date of disability or retirement. The amount reflects the 2012 award paid in March 2013.

  (3)Reflects a joint and survivor annuity benefit payable monthly.

  (4)The present value of unvested awardscalculated assuming a joint and survivor annuity benefit payable monthly under the disability and retirement scenarios.

  
(5)Reflects benefits for Mr. Bellanti and his spouse assuming retirement on December 31, 2012 under the retiree welfare benefit plan.

  (6)Vesting of outstanding restricted stock awards is acceleratedOutstanding RSUs vest upon disability, termination of employment by the Company pursuantdue to a reduction in force or similar program approved by the CEOdeath, disability or upon a change in control. The value for restricted stock reflects the fair market valuenumber of unvested awards.RSUs multiplied by the closing price of AAM stock on December 31, 2012.

  
(6)(7)The 20092010 performance award payable to Mr. Jerge in the event of a disability, retirement or termination without cause would be based on actual performance through December 31, 3012. Reflects award earned through December 31, 2012 and paid in March 2013.

  (8)The 2011 performance award payable in the event of disability, retirement or termination without cause would be based on actual performance and on the pro-rata portion of his employment as compared to the performance period. As of December 31, 2010,2012, two-thirds of the performance period would have lapsed. Reflects pro-rata award assuming target is achieved. UponThe actual payout may range from 0% to 200%.

  (9)The 2012 performance unit award payable in the event of disability, retirement, termination without cause or upon a change in control the award is payable at target.
(7)The 2010 performance award payable to Mr. Jerge in the event of a disability would be based on actual performance and on the pro-rata portion of his employment as compared to the performance period. As of December 31, 2010, one-third2012, approximately 27% of the performance period would have lapsed. Reflects pro-rata award assuming target is achieved. The 2010 awards do not include a provision for payment upon change in control.actual payout may range from 0% to 200%.

(8)(10)Under the special incentive program, in the event of disability, scenario, reflects health care benefitsresignation for good reason or termination without cause, Mr. Bellanti is entitled to retirement.
(9)program amounts earned and not previously paid. Reflects benefits equal to 100%the remaining two annual installments of base salary for year one and 60% of base salary to retirement.
(10)Under the disability scenario, reflects basic and supplemental life insurance benefits to retirement.$150,000.

(11)Assumes amount is payable in a lump sum upon occurrence of termination event.

Patrick S. LancasterNorman Willemse

The following table shows estimated potential payments to Mr. Willemse upon termination without cause, disability, retirement and other benefits for Mr. Lancastera change in control as of December 31, 20102012. Upon termination for cause or upon resignation without good reason, Mr. Willemse would receive only accrued and unpaid compensation. These amounts are not shown in accordance with the Settlement Agreement between AAM andtable below. Mr. Lancaster effective July 12, 2010. Mr. Lancaster retired effective January 1, 2011.

Willemse was eligible to retire on December 31, 2012. The assumptions used to determine retirement benefits are the same assumptions used in our audited consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012. See Note 6 to the audited consolidated financial statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K.

    Without
Cause
Termination
($)
   Disability
Retirement(1)
($)
   Retirement
($)
   Change in
Control
($)
 

Compensation:

                    

Annual Incentive(2)

        95,000     95,000       

Retirement Plans:

                    

Defined Benefit

                    

Retirement Program(3)

        250,789     250,789       

SERP(4)

        282,554     282,554       

Welfare Benefit(5)

        12,740            

Long Term Incentives:

                    

RSUs(6)

        151,424          151,424  

2010 Performance Awards(7)

   281,808     281,808     281,808       

2011 Performance Awards(8)

   161,600     161,600     161,600       

2012 Performance Unit Award(9)

   33,884     33,884     33,884     33,884  

Other Benefits:

                    

Deferred Compensation(10)

   27,372     27,372     27,372     27,372  

Total

   504,664     1,297,171     1,133,007     212,680  

  (1)Assumes total and permanent disability on December 31, 2012.

  (2)Retirement
($)
Compensation:
Bonus(1)
704,000
Retirement Plans:
Defined Benefit
Retirement Program(2)
861,446
SERP(2)
727,786
Welfare Benefit(3)
182,338
Long Term Incentives:
PARS and RSUs(4)
154,320
Restricted Stock(4)
61,535
2009 Performance Award(5)
315,000
2010 Performance Award(6)
173,184
SeniorUnder AAM’s Incentive Compensation Plan for Executive Special Incentive Award(7)
1,000,000
Other Benefits:
Consulting Fees(8)
420,000
Total
4,599,609
(1)Mr. Lancaster received a 2010 bonus paymentOfficers, the award payout is pro-rated through the date of $704,000disability or retirement. The amount reflects the 2012 award paid in March 2011 in accordance with the Settlement Agreement.2013.


51


  (3)
(2)Reflects Mr. Lancaster retired on January 1, 2011. His SalariedWillemse’s benefits in the Albion Pension Plan as of December 31, 2012.

  (4)The present value calculated assuming a lump sum benefit commenced as a 65% Jointunder the disability and Survivor annuity on January 1, 2011retirement scenarios.

  (5)Reflects benefits for Mr. Willemse and his SERPspouse assuming retirement on December 31, 2012 under our retiree welfare benefit will commence asplan.

  (6)Outstanding RSUs vest upon termination of employment due to death, disability or upon a 65% Joint and Survivor annuitychange in control. The value reflects the number of RSUs multiplied by the closing price of AAM stock on July 1, 2011. The amounts presented reflect the actual commencement dates, form of payment elections and his spouse’s date of birth.December 31, 2012.

  
(3)Mr. Lancaster is entitled to retiree medical account balance and executive life insurance. The amount presented reflects these benefits.
(4)In accordance with the Settlement Agreement, Mr. Lancaster’s outstanding PARS, RSU awards and restricted stock vested upon his retirement effective January 1, 2011.
(5)(7)The 20092010 performance award payable to Mr. Lancaster isin the event of disability, retirement or termination without cause would be based on actual performance through December 31, 3012. Reflects award earned through December 31, 2012 and paid in March 31,2013.

  (8)The 2011 prorated forperformance award payable in the event of a disability, retirement or termination without cause would be based on actual performance and the pro-rata portion of his employment as compared to the performance period. As of December 31, 2012, two-thirds of the performance period would have lapsed. Reflects pro-rata award assuming target is achieved. The actual payout may range from 0% to 200%.

  
(6)(9)The 20102012 performance unit award payable to Mr. Lancaster isin the event of disability, retirement, termination without cause or upon a change in control would be based on actual performance through December 31, 2010 prorated forand the pro-rata portion of his employment as compared to the performance period. Mr. Lancaster received paymentAs of December 31, 2012, approximately 27% of the performance period would have lapsed. Reflects pro-rata award in March 2011.assuming target is achieved. The actual payout may range from 0% to 200%.

(7)(10)In accordance with the Senior Executive Special Incentive award, upon his retirement as of January 1, 2011, Mr. Lancaster will receive payment of $1 million in 2011.
(8)Mr. Lancaster will receive consulting fees of $420,000,Assumes amount is payable in monthly installments in 2011, for services provided pursuant to the Settlement Agreement.a lump sum upon occurrence of termination event.


52


PROPOSAL 2: ADVISORY VOTE ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Section 951 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 (theDodd-Frank Act) requires

AAM to seekis seeking a non-binding advisory vote from our stockholders to approve the compensation of our named executive officers as disclosed in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis (CD&A) and narrative and tabular disclosures in this Proxy Statement.proxy statement. In the CD&A, we have provided a detailed description of our compensation programs, including our compensation philosophy and objectives, the individual elements of executive pay, and how the programs are administered. We encourage you to review the CD&A, together with the other narrative and tabular disclosures, in considering your advisory vote on our named executive officers’ compensation.

Our executive officer compensation program is designed to reward performance that supports the achievement of the Company’s business objectives and creates long-term stockholder value. The Compensation Committee considers the following fundamental objectives, among others, in determining our compensation programs:

Compensation and benefit programs should attract, motivate and retain experienced executives who are vital to our short-term and long-term success, profitability and growth.

Compensation and benefit programs should foster the long-term focus required for our executive officers:success in the global automotive industry.

• Compensation and benefit programs should attract, motivate and retain experienced executives who are vital to our short-term and long-term success, profitability and growth.
• Compensation and benefit programs should foster the long-term focus required for success in the global automotive industry.
• Executive officers should be AAM stockholders.
• The objectives of rewarding performance and retention should be balanced.

Executive officers should be AAM stockholders.

The objectives of rewarding performance and retention should be balanced.

Features of our compensation program and practices include the following:

Payouts of annual and long-term incentive awards are based on AAM’s performance as measured against a mix of pre-established financial metrics and total shareholder return.

• A significant portion of executive compensation is tied to Company performance. Payouts of annual and long-term incentive awards are based on the achievement of a mix of financial objectives.
• Executive officers are required to comply with stock ownership guidelines established

Executive officers are required to comply with stock ownership requirements, which were increased by the Compensation Committee and are prohibited from hedging/pledging Company stock.

• There are no golden parachute agreements and no excise taxgross-ups.
The Board and the Compensation Committee believe that AAM’sin 2012.

AAM prohibits hedging or pledging of Company stock.

There are no golden parachute agreements and no excise tax gross-ups upon a change of control.

For the reasons stated above, and more fully discussed in the CD&A, the Board unanimously recommends a vote for the approval of the compensation programs have been effective in motivating our senior management team to successfully deliver on our strategic goals and achieve superior results for AAM and its stockholders and other key stakeholders. We believe the effectiveness of our compensation programs and policies is demonstrated by the recent accomplishments of AAM’s senior management team. Our senior management team led a comprehensive, multi-year restructuring of our business, yielding significant, permanent structural cost reductions and positioning us to significantly improve our profitability and free cash flow performance in 2010. We believe that ournamed executive compensation programs are designed to continue to drive positive performance in the achievement of AAM’s long-term strategic goals and provide value for our stockholders.

officers.

Although the vote on this proposal is advisory vote is not binding,and non-binding, the Board and the Compensation Committee will consider the outcome of the advisory vote on executive compensationvoting results when making future compensation decisions.

The Board of Directors unanimously recommends a vote FOR the following non-binding resolution:

RESOLVED, that the stockholders approveapproval of the compensation of our named executive officers as described in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis, tables and related narrative disclosure in this proxy statement made pursuant to the compensation disclosure rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission.


53officers.


PROPOSAL 3: FREQUENCY OF ADVISORY VOTE ON EXECUTIVE OFFICER COMPENSATION
Under the Dodd-Frank Act, AAM is also required to submit for stockholder vote a non-binding resolution to determine whether the advisory stockholder vote on executive compensation(say-on-pay) shall occur every one, two or three years. Although this vote is advisory and non-binding, the Board will review voting results and give consideration to the outcome of the vote when considering the frequency of futuresay-on-pay proposals.
The Board believes that submitting the advisory vote on executive compensation to stockholders on an annual basis is appropriate for AAM and its stockholders at this time. While the Board is recommending that you vote in favor of submitting advisory votes every year, you are not voting to approve or disapprove the Board’s recommendation. The proxy card provides you with a choice of voting to submit the vote every one, two or three years, or of abstaining from voting.
The Board unanimously recommends that you vote for the alternative of “one year” for future advisory votes on executive compensation.


54


20102012 COMPENSATION OF NON-EMPLOYEE DIRECTORS

Total 20102012 compensation of our non-employee directors is shown below.

             
    Non-Equity
  
  Fees Earned or
 Incentive Plan
  
  Paid in Cash
 Compensation(2)
 Total
Name(1)
 ($) ($) ($)
 
Salvatore J. Bonanno, Sr.   63,450   84,000   147,450 
Elizabeth A. Chappell  71,250   79,632   150,882 
Forest J. Farmer  86,150   84,000   170,150 
Richard C. Lappin  71,450   84,000   155,450 
William P. Miller II  75,450   75,264   150,714 
Larry K. Switzer  79,250   75,264   154,514 
Thomas K. Walker  97,250   84,000   181,250 
Dr. Henry T. Yang  66,450   79,632   146,082 

Name

  Fees Earned or
Paid in Cash(1)
($)
   Stock Awards
($)(2)
   Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation
($)(3)
   All Other
Compensation
($)(4)
   Total 

Salvatore J. Bonanno, Sr.

   75,000     80,003     76,000          231,003  

Elizabeth A. Chappell

   75,500     80,003     76,000     400     231,903  

Forest J. Farmer

   102,000     80,003     76,000     600     258,603  

Steven B. Hantler

   75,500     80,003          400     155,903  

Richard C. Lappin

   91,500     80,003     76,000     1,900     249,403  

James A. McCaslin

   79,000     80,003     76,000          235,003  

William P. Miller II

   87,000     80,003     76,000          243,003  

John F. Smith

   79,500     80,003               159,503  

Larry K. Switzer

   91,000     80,003     76,000     1,400     248,403  

Thomas K. Walker

   146,333     80,003     76,000     400     302,736  

Dr. Henry T. Yang

   78,000     80,003     76,000     8,200     242,203  

(1)James A. McCaslin joinedFor Mr. Walker, reflects $33,333 paid for his services as Non-Executive Chairman. Mr. Walker served in this temporary role from September 21, 2012 through January 31, 2013 during the absence of the Executive Chairman for a medical procedure. Upon the recommendation of the Compensation Committee, the Board effective February 8, 2011approved additional compensation for Mr. Walker at the rate of $10,000 per month. This amount was determined based on a market analysis provided by Meridian of non-executive chairman pay at companies in our comparative peer group and received no compensation in 2010.a broader general industry group.

(2)Reflects the full grant date fair value of equity awards granted on May 15, 2012 calculated in accordance with FASB ASC 718 (without any reduction for risk of forfeiture) as determined based on applying the assumptions used in our financial statements. The grant date fair value of equity awards is calculated using the closing market price of AAM common stock on the grant date of $9.16. See Note 9 to the audited consolidated financial statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012 regarding assumptions underlying the valuation of equity awards.

(3)Reflects amounts earned under the 20092011 deferred compensation unit (DCUs) award as described below. The 2009award. In April 2011, annual DCU awards of $80,000 were adjusted for certain directorsmade to each non-employee director concurrent with the 2011 annual meeting of stockholders. These awards vested April 2012 and resulted in a payout of 95% of target, or $76,000, based on the amount of restricted stock unit grants received in 2008.AAM’s total shareholder return.
No equity awards were granted to non-employee directors during 2010.

(4)The Company reimburses non-employee directors for their travel and related out-of-pocket expenses in connection with attending Board, Committee and stockholder meetings. From time to time, the Company invites spouses of non-employee directors to attend Company events associated with these meetings. The Company pays for spousal travel and certain other expenses and reimburses non-employee directors for taxes attributable to the income associated with this benefit. Amounts reflect reimbursement of taxes on this income.

As of December 31, 2010,2012, each non-employee director had the following number of outstanding options and restricted stock units (RSUs):

         
  Option Awards
 Restricted Stock
  Outstanding
 Units Outstanding
Name
 ($) ($)
 
Salvatore J. Bonanno, Sr.       
Elizabeth A. Chappell  5,000   11,100 
Forest J. Farmer  7,500   4,600 
Richard C. Lappin  7,500   5,650 
William P. Miller II  7,500   14,350 
Larry K. Switzer  7,500   14,350 
Thomas K. Walker  7,500   7,850 
Dr. Henry T. Yang  7,500   11,100 
RSUs, including RSUs deferred:

Name

  Option Awards    
Outstanding    
(#)
   Restricted Stock
Units Outstanding
(#)
 

Salvatore J. Bonanno, Sr.

        8,734  

Elizabeth A. Chappell

   5,000     19,834  

Forest J. Farmer

   7,500     13,334  

Steven B. Hantler

        8,734  

Richard C. Lappin

   7,500     14,384  

James A. McCaslin

        8,734  

William P. Miller II

   7,500     23,084  

John F. Smith

        8,734  

Larry K. Switzer

   7,500     23,084  

Thomas K. Walker

   7,500     16,584  

Dr. Henry T. Yang

   7,500     19,834  

ElementsNarrative Description of Non-Employee Director Compensation

Our non-employee director compensation program in effect during 2010 consisted of annual retainer and meeting attendance fees and an annual award of deferred compensation units (DCUs) as described below. Employee directors do not receive compensation for service on the Board.

20102012 Annual Retainer and Meeting Attendance Fees

     
Annual retainer $50,000 
Board meeting attendance fee  1,500 
Committee meeting attendance fee:    
Committee chairman  3,000 
Other committee members  2,000 
Committee chairman attendance at meetings at the Company
for Committee-related business
  1,000 


55


Annual retainer

  $60,000  

Board meeting attendance fee

   1,500  

Committee meeting attendance fee:

  

Committee chairman

   3,000  

Other committee members

   2,000  

Deferred CompensationRestricted Stock Units (RSUs).
In April 2010, annual DCU awards of $70,000 were made to eachEach non-employee director asis entitled to receive an annual award of RSUs equal to a value of $80,000 on the date of the 2010 annual meeting of stockholders.stockholder meeting. The DCU awards are payable in stock and vest in one year, and the total payment will be based on AAM’s total shareholder return, with payments ranging from 80 percent to 120 percent of the DCU award amount.
2011 Non-Employee Director Compensation
The Board of Directors,unless vesting is accelerated upon the recommendation of the Compensation Committee, approved an increasedeath, disability or a change in the annual retainer and the annual DCU award amount for non-employee directors for 2011. Effective January 1, 2011, the retainer was increased to $60,000. Effective at the 2011 annual meeting of stockholders, non-employee directors will receive an annual DCU award in the amount of $80,000. These adjustments to AAM’s non-employee director compensation program were made in consideration of a market study of non-employee director compensation performed in 2010 by the Compensation Committee’s independent compensation consultant, Meridian Compensation Partners, LLC.
control.

DeferralDeferral.

Non-employee directors may elect to defer, on a pre-tax basis, a portion of their retainer and meeting fees and receive tax-deferred earnings (or losses) on the deferrals under AAM’s Executive Deferred Compensation Plan. The rate of return on deferred amounts is based on the performance of selected benchmark funds identified in the plan, which is described inNonqualified Deferred Compensationabove. Non-employee directors may also elect to defer settlement of RSUs and DCUs until after termination of service from the Board.

Stock Ownership GuidelinesGuidelines.

TheUpon stockholder approval of AAM’s 2012 Omnibus Incentive Plan, the Compensation Committee decided to increase the stock ownership guidelines for non-employee directors recommendin 2012 and change the measurement from a minimumfixed number of shares to a multiple of the annual retainer. These new stock ownership guidelines were based on an analysis of prevalent external market practices provided by Meridian in 2012 at the direction of the Compensation Committee. Based on this analysis, the Compensation Committee increased the stock ownership guidelines from 4,000 shares to a multiple of AAM common stock. Stockthree times the annual retainer. Non-employee directors are expected to meet the guidelines within three years from April 2012 or, for new directors, within three years from the date of election to the Board. Current stock ownership of our non-employee directors is shown in theSecurity Ownership section below.


56


2013 Non-Employee Director Compensation.The Board of Directors, upon the recommendation of the Compensation Committee, approved an increase in the annual retainer and the value of annual

equity awards. Effective January 1, 2013, the annual retainer was increased to $80,000. The Board also approved an additional annual retainer of $20,000 for the lead director as compensation for the responsibilities and duties associated with that position. The value of the annual equity award for non-employee directors was increased to $100,000 effective on the date of the 2013 annual meeting of stockholders. These adjustments were made based on of a 2012 market study of non-employee director compensation performed by Meridian of companies in our comparative peer group.

SECURITY OWNERSHIP

The following tables show the number of shares of AAM common stock beneficially owned as of March 3, 20115, 2013 (unless otherwise noted) by:

each person known to us who beneficially owns more than 5 percent of AAM common stock;

each of our non-employee directors and nominees;

 each person known to us who beneficially owns more than 5 percent of AAM common stock;
 • each of our non-employee directors and nominees;
• 

our named executive officers;and

• all directors, nominees and executive officers (as of March 3, 2011) as a group.

all directors, nominees and executive officers as a group.

A beneficial owner of stock is a person who has voting power (the power to control voting decisions) or investment power (the power to cause the sale of the stock). All individuals listed in the tables have sole voting and investment power over the shares unless(unless otherwise noted.

noted).

The beneficial ownership calculation includes 75,301,26374,839,567 shares of AAM common stock outstanding on March 3, 2011.

5, 2013.

MORE THAN 5% BENEFICIAL OWNERS

The following persons have filed reports with the SEC for the period ending December 31, 2010,2012, stating that they beneficially own more than five percent of AAM’s common stock.

         
  Shares of
  
  Common Stock
 Percent of
  Beneficially
 Shares
Name and Address
 Owned Outstanding
 
Barrow, Hanley, Mewhinney & Strauss, Inc.(1)  4,529,426   6.35 
2200 Ross Avenue, 31st Floor
Dallas, TX 75201
        
Eagle Asset Management, Inc.(2)  4,817,674   6.75 
880 Carillon Parkway
St. Petersburg, FL 33716
        
TIAA-CREF Investment Management, LLC(3)  6,417,325   8.99 
730 Third Avenue
New York, NY 10017
        

Name and Address

  Shares of
Common Stock
Beneficially
Owned
   Percent of
Shares
Outstanding
 

Barrow, Hanley, Mewhinney & Strauss, LLC(1)

   5,283,416     7.06  

2200 Ross Avenue, 31st Floor Dallas, TX 75201

    

The Vanguard Group(2)

   3,786,844     5.05  

100 Vanguard Blvd. Malvern, PA 19355

    

(1)Based on the Schedule 13G filed by Barrow, Hanley, Mewhinney & Strauss, Inc.,LLC, reporting shared voting power over 2,628,4002,508,300 shares, sole voting power over 1,901,0262,775,116 shares, and sole investment power over 4,529,4265,283,416 shares.

(2)Based on the Schedule 13G filed by Eagle Asset Management, Inc.,The Vanguard Group, reporting sole voting andpower over 109,452 shares, sole investment power over 4,817,674 shares.
(3)Based on the Schedule 13G filed jointly by TIAA-CREF Investment Management, LLC3,679,992 shares and Teachers Advisors, Inc., reporting sole voting andshared investment power over 6,417,325106,852 shares.


57


DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
             
     Percent
    
  Shares
  of
    
  Beneficially
  Shares
    
  Owned(1)(2)  Outstanding    
 
Directors
            
Salvatore J. Bonanno, Sr.   25,000   *     
Elizabeth A. Chappell  17,100   *     
Forest J. Farmer  30,350   *     
Richard C. Lappin  21,950   *     
James A. McCaslin     *     
William P. Miller II  27,850   *     
Larry K. Switzer  22,850   *     
Thomas K. Walker  21,350   *     
Dr. Henry T. Yang  19,600   *     
Named Executive Officers(3)
            
Richard E. Dauch(4)
  7,249,187   9.5     
Michael K. Simonte  96,951   *     
David C. Dauch(5)
  168,025   *     
John J. Bellanti  107,400   *     
John E. Jerge  116,900   *     
Directors and Executive Officers as a Group (24 persons)(6)
  8,605,202   11.1     

   Shares
Beneficially
Owned(1)(2)
   Percent of
Shares
Outstanding
 

Directors

    

Salvatore J. Bonanno, Sr.

   25,000     *  

Elizabeth A. Chappell

   17,100     *  

Forest J. Farmer

   33,568     *  

Steven B. Hantler

   5,000     *  

Richard C. Lappin

   21,950     *  

James A. McCaslin

   4,000     *  

William P. Miller II

   27,850     *  

John F. Smith

   5,000     *  

Larry K. Switzer

   22,850     *  

Thomas K. Walker

   26,350     *  

Dr. Henry T. Yang

   19,600     *  

Named Executive Officers

    

David C. Dauch(3)

   119,131     *  

Michael K. Simonte

   101,951     *  

Richard E. Dauch(4)

   6,691,957     8.9  

John J. Bellanti(5)

   79,279     *  

Norman Willemse

   32,791     *  

Directors and Executive Officers as a Group (28 persons)

   7,615,039     10.0  

(*)Less than 1 percent of the outstanding shares of AAM common stock.

(1)Includes vested RSUs awarded to non-employee directors that have vested or will vest within 60 days.been deferred. For the number of RSUs held by each non-employee director, see table to the20102012 Compensation of Non-Employee Directors.Directors.

(2)Includes the following number of shares of common stock which may be acquired upon exercise of options that were exercisable or would become exercisable within 60 days: 5,000 for Ms. Chappell; 7,500 for Messrs.Mr. Farmer, Mr. Lappin, Mr. Miller, Mr. Switzer, Mr. Walker and Dr. Yang; 1,399,50068,000 for Mr. D.C. Dauch; 50,000 for Mr. Simonte; 750,000 for Mr. R.E. Dauch; 69,500 for Mr. Simonte; 117,865 for Mr. D.C. Dauch; 77,70052,700 for Mr. Bellanti and 70,000 for Mr. Jerge.
(3)Includes shares of restricted stock held by named executive officers over which they have sole voting power but no investment power: 39,215 for Mr. R.E. Dauch; 17,200 for Mr. Simonte; 21,300 for Mr. D.C. Dauch; 16,200 for Mr. Bellanti and 13,900 for Mr. Jerge.Willemse.

(4)(3)Includes 1,938,060 shares of AAM common stock held in family trusts and 111,710 held in a charitable family foundation. Mr. R.E. Dauch shares voting and investment power over shares held by the family trusts and the charitable family foundation. Also includes 3,760,702 shares held by the Sandra J. Dauch Gift Trust, of which Mr. R.E. Dauch is trustee.
(5)Includes 532548 shares held in trusts for the benefit of Mr. D.C. Dauch’s children.

(6)(4)Includes 5,830,247 shares held jointly within family members over whichtrusts and 111,710 held in a director or executive officertax-exempt charitable foundation. Mr. R.E. Dauch shares voting and/orand investment power.power over 545,410 shares held by a family trust and the charitable foundation.

(5)Includes 10,000 shares held by Mr. Bellanti’s spouse.

Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance

Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 requires our directors and executive officers, and persons who own more than 10 percent10% of a registered class of our equity securities, to file with the SEC initial reports of ownership and reports of changes in ownership of our common stock. Based solely on our review of these reports, and written representations from such reporting persons, we believe that allthe Section 16(a) filing requirements applicable to our executive officers, directors and owners of more than 10 percent of AAM’s common stockfor such reporting persons were met during 2010.


582012.


PROPOSAL 3: RATIFICATION OF APPOINTMENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM FOR 2012

PROPOSAL 4: RATIFICATION OF APPOINTMENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM FOR 2011
The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors of AAM has appointed Deloitte & Touche LLP to serve as the independent registered public accounting firm to examine the Company’s consolidated financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2011.2013. Although ratification is not required by our bylaws or otherwise, the Board is submitting the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP to our stockholders as a matter of good corporate practice. If the appointment is not ratified, the Audit Committee will consider whether the appointment is appropriate and will use its discretion in determining whether the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP is in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders.

Representatives of Deloitte & Touche LLP will attend the 20112013 annual meeting and be available to make a statement or respond to appropriate questions.

The Board unanimously recommends a vote FOR ratification of the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for 2011.


592013.


AUDIT COMMITTEE DISCLOSURE

Report of the Audit Committee

The Audit Committee assists the Board in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities with respect to the Company’s financial reporting process, by monitoring, among other matters, the quality and integrity of the Company’s financial statements, the independence and performance of Deloitte & Touche LLP (D&T), the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, and the performance of the Company’s internal auditors. Management has primary responsibility for preparing the consolidated financial statements and for the reporting processes, including the design and maintenance of the Company’s system of internal controls. The independent registered public accounting firm is responsible for auditing the Company’s consolidated financial statements and opining upon the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting under the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB). The Audit Committee is solely responsible for the compensation, appointment and oversight of the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm.

In this context, the Audit Committee has met and held discussions with management, D&T and the internal auditors, separately and together, with and without management present, regarding the Company’s audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2010,2012, and the Company’s internal controls. Management represented to the Audit Committee that the Company’s consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the U.S. The Audit Committee also discussed with the independent registered public accounting firm the matters required to be discussed by Auditing Standards No. 61,Communications with Audit Committees, as amended, (AICPA, Professional Standards, Vol. 1, AU section 380), as adopted byapplicable rules of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board in Rule 3200T.SEC, and other relevant professional and regulatory standards, which include, among other items, matters related to the conduct of the audit of the Company’s consolidated financial statements. Further, the Audit Committee discussed with the internal auditors the Company’s plans for and scope of internal audits, identification of audit risks and results of audit activities.

The Audit Committee reviewed and discussed with the independent registered public accounting firmD&T the auditor’s independence from the Company and itsmembers of the Company’s management. As part of that review, D&T submitted to the Audit Committee the written disclosures and the letter required by the applicable requirements of the PCAOB regarding D&T’s communication with the Audit Committee concerning independence from the Company. Further, the Audit Committee discussed with D&T the firm’s independence and considered whether D&T’s provisionperformance of non-audit services to the Company was compatible with maintaining D&T’s independence. The Audit Committee concluded that D&T is independent from the Company and its management.

Based upon the considerations described above and subject to the limitations upon the role and responsibilities of the Audit Committee, the Audit Committee recommended to the Board that the audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 20102012 be included in the Company’s 20102012 Annual Report onForm 10-K.

Audit Committee of the Board of Directors

William P. Miller II, Chairman

John F. Smith

Larry K. Switzer

Thomas K. Walker


60


Policy for Pre-Approval of Audit and Non-Audit Services

The Audit Committee’s policy is to approve in advance all audit and permitted non-audit services (including scope, fee structure and the potential effect of the service on the auditor’s independence) to be performed for the Company by its independent registered public accounting firm. Pre-approval is generally provided for up to one year, is detailed as to the particular service or category of services and is generally subject to a specific budget. The Audit Committee may also pre-approve particular services on acase-by-case basis. The Chairman of the Audit Committee may pre-approve permissible non-audit services that arise between Audit Committee meetings, provided the fees do not exceed a limit established by the Audit Committee and the Audit Committee is informed of the decision to pre-approve the service at its next scheduled meeting. The Audit Committee received regular updates on the amount of fees and scope of audit, non-audit and tax services provided by D&T during 2010.2012. During fiscal 2010,2012, all services provided by D&T as noted in the table below were authorized and approved by the Audit Committee in compliance with pre-approval policies and procedures described herein.

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm’s Fees

The aggregate amount of fees billed by D&T, the member firms of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, and their respective affiliates during the previous two fiscal years is as follows:

         
  December 31, 
  2010  2009 
 
Audit Fees(1)
 $1,181,000  $1,353,000 
Audit Related Fees(2)
      
Tax Fees(3)
  238,000   32,000 
All Other Fees      
         
Total $1,419,000  $1,385,000 
         

   December 31, 
   2012   2011 

Audit Fees(1)

  $1,357,550    $1,181,000  

Audit Related Fees(2)

          

Tax Fees(3)

   80,539     238,000  

All Other Fees

          
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $1,438,089    $1,419,000  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

(1)Includes fees for the audit of annual consolidated financial statements, reviews of quarterly consolidated financial statements, statutory audits, consents and comfort letters, reviews of documents filed with the SEC and other services related to SEC matters. Audit fees also include fees incurred in connection with an audit of internal control over financial reporting as required by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.

(2)Audit-related fees are for services that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of the Company’s consolidated financial statements. This category includes fees related to internal control, financial accounting and reporting standards.

(3)Fees for tax services in 20102012 and 20092011 consisted of fees for tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning services.


61


OTHER MATTERS

Expenses of Solicitation

The Board is soliciting your proxy, and the expense of soliciting proxies will be borne by AAM. Proxy materials were distributed by mail by Computershare Trust Company, N.A. In addition, AAM will reimburse brokers, banks and other holders of record for their expenses in forwarding proxy materials to stockholders.

We have retained Georgeson Inc. to assist in the solicitation of proxies for an estimated fee of $10,000$11,000 plus reimbursement of certain out-of-pocket expenses. Georgeson may be contacted at(866) 432-2791.391-6921. In addition, our officers and certain other employees may solicit proxies personally or by telephone, fax ore-mail. They will receive no special compensation for these services.

Stockholder Proposals for 20122014 Annual Meeting

Under SEC rules, stockholder proposals for the 20122014 annual meeting of stockholders must be received by the Secretary of AAM at One Dauch Drive, Detroit, MI48211-1198, on or before November 20, 201121, 2013 in order to be eligible for inclusion in the Company’s 20122013 proxy materials. In addition, AAM’s bylaws require stockholders intending to present any matter for consideration at the 20122014 annual meeting of stockholders, other than through inclusion in our proxy materials, to notify AAM’s Secretary in writing at the above address on or before February 19, 2012,21, 2014, but no earlier than January 30, 2012.

February 1, 2014.

Obtaining a copy of 20102012 Form 10-K

AAM will furnish to stockholders without charge a copy of our Annual Report onForm 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010.2012. Requests should be directed to American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc., Investor Relations Department, One Dauch Drive, Detroit, MI48211-1198, or bye-mail to investorrelations@aam.com. The 20102012 Annual Report onForm 10-K is available on our website athttp://investor.aam.com/sec.cfm.investor.aam.com.


62

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(AAM 2006 LOGO)


(GRAPHIC)
Using aIMPORTANT ANNUAL MEETING INFORMATIONblack ink pen, mark your votes with anElectronic Voting Instructions You can vote by Internet or telephone! Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!X Instead of mailing your proxy, you may choose one ofas shown in this example. Please do not write outside the two voting methods outlined below to vote your proxy. VALIDATION DETAILS ARE LOCATED BELOW IN THE TITLE BAR.Proxies submitted by the Internet or telephone must be received by 1:00 a.m., Central Time, on April 28, 2011. designated areas.x

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Electronic Voting Instructions

Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!

Instead of mailing your proxy, you may choose one of the voting methods outlined below to vote your proxy.

VALIDATION DETAILS ARE LOCATED BELOW IN THE TITLE BAR.

Proxies submitted by the Internet or telephone must be received by 1:00 a.m., Central Time, on May 2, 2013.

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Vote by Internet

Log on to the Internet and go    Go towww.envisionreports.com/axl

    Or scan the QR code with your smartphone

    Follow the steps outlined on the secured website.secure website

Vote by telephone

     Call toll free 1-800-652-VOTE (8683) within the USA, US territories & Canada any time on a touch tone telephone. There isNO CHARGEto you for the call.telephone

     Follow the instructions provided by the recorded message. 000004 Using ablack inkpen, mark your votes with anXas shown in this example. Please do not write outside the designated areas.Annual Meeting Proxy Cardmessage

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q IF YOU HAVE NOT VOTED VIA THE INTERNETOR TELEPHONE, FOLD ALONG THE PERFORATION, DETACH AND RETURN THE BOTTOM PORTION IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE.q

1234 5678 9012 345 _IF YOU HAVE NOT VOTED VIA THE INTERNET OR TELEPHONE, FOLD ALONG THE PERFORATION, DETACH AND RETURN THE BOTTOM PORTION IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE A Proposals —The Board of Directors recommends a voteFOR all the nominees listed in Proposal 1,FOR Proposal 2, andFOR an annual frequency on Proposal 3, and FOR Proposal 4.3. 1. Election of Directors:
1. Election of Directors: For Withhold    For Withhold  For Withhold +
 

 

01 - Elizabeth A. Chappell

 

 

¨

 

 

¨

 

 

02 - Steven B. Hantler

 

 

¨

 

 

¨

 

 

03 - John F. Smith

 

 

¨

 

 

¨

 
    For Against Abstain    For Against Abstain
2. Approval, on an advisory basis, of the compensation of the Company’s named executive officers. ¨ ¨ ¨ 3. Ratification of the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2013. ¨ ¨ ¨
     In their discretion, the proxies are authorized to the extent permitted by law to vote on any and all other matters as may properly come before the meeting, including the authority to vote to adjourn the meeting.

For Withhold For Withhold For Withhold B  01 — Richard E. Dauch 02 — James A. McCaslin 03 — William P. Miller II 04 — Larry K. SwitzerFor Against Abstain 2. Approval, on a advisory basis, of the compensation of the Company’s named executive officers as described in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis, tables and related narrative. 3. Approval, on an advisory basis, of frequency for future advisory votes on say-on-pay.1 Yr 2 Yrs 3 Yrs Abstain 4. Ratification of the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for year ending December 31, 2011.For Against Abstain In their discretion, the proxies are authorized to the extent permitted by law to vote on any and all other matters as may properly come before the meeting, including the authority to vote to adjourn the meeting.Non-Voting Items

Change of Address— Please print new address belowbelow.Meeting Attendance
Mark box to the right if you plan to attend the Annual Meeting.¨

 C Authorized Signatures — This section must be completed for your vote to be counted. C — Date and Sign Below Please sign exactly as name(s) appears hereon. Joint owners should each sign. When signing as attorney, executor, administrator, corporate officer, trustee, guardian, or custodian, please give full title.This section must be completed for your instructions to be executed.

Please sign exactly as name(s) appears hereon. Joint owners should each sign. When signing as attorney, executor, administrator, corporate officer, trustee, guardian, or custodian, please give full title.This section must be completed for your instructions to be executed.

Date (mm/dd/yyyy) — Please print date below.

Signature 1 — Please keep signature within the box.

Signature 2 — Please keep signature within the box.

    /    /        

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01L57C


(GRAPHIC)
_IF YOU HAVE NOT VOTED VIA THE INTERNET OR TELEPHONE, FOLD ALONG THE PERFORATION, DETACH AND RETURN THE BOTTOM PORTION IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE. Proxy — American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc.
PROXY FOR ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS ON APRIL 28, 2011 SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Richard E. Dauch and Steven R. Keyes, or either of them, with full power of substitution, are authorized to vote all of your shares as if you were present at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc. to be held in the Auditorium at AAM’s World Headquarters Complex, One Dauch Drive, Detroit, Michigan, at 3:00 p.m. on April 28, 2011 or at any adjournments of the meeting.This proxy will be voted as you specify on the reverse side. If you do not make a choice, this proxy will be voted for the director nominees in Proposal 1, for the approval of the compensation of the Company’s named executive officers in Proposal 2, “1 year” for the frequency for future advisory votes in Proposal 3 and ratification of the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm in Proposal 4. Voting by the Internet or by telephone reduces costs to AAM. If you vote over the Internet or by telephone, please do not mail this card. (Items to be voted appear on reverse side.)

q IF YOU HAVE NOT VOTED VIA THE INTERNETOR TELEPHONE, FOLD ALONG THE PERFORATION, DETACH AND RETURN THE BOTTOM PORTION IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE.q

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Proxy — American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc.

PROXY FOR ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS ON May 2, 2013

SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Richard E. Dauch and David E. Barnes, or either of them, with full power of substitution, are authorized to vote all of your shares as if you were present at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc. to be held in the Auditorium at AAM’s World Headquarters Complex, One Dauch Drive, Detroit, Michigan, at 3:00 p.m. on May 2, 2013 or at any adjournments of the meeting.

This proxy will be voted as you specify on the reverse side. If you do not make a choice, this proxy will be voted for the director nominees in Proposal 1, for the approval, on an advisory basis, of the compensation of the Company’s named executive officers in Proposal 2 and for ratification of the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm in Proposal 3.

Voting over the Internet or by telephone reduces costs to AAM. If you vote over the Internet or by telephone, please do not mail this card.

(Items to be voted appear on reverse side.)