SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION

Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the

of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

(Amendment No.    )

Filed by the Registrant  x

Filed by a Party other than the Registrant  ¨

Check the appropriate box:

 

¨

Preliminary Proxy Statement

x       Definitive Proxy Statement

¨       Definitive Additional Materials

¨        Soliciting Material Pursuant to § 240.14a-12

 

¨Confidential, for Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2))

Iridium Communications Inc.

(Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter)

(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement if Other Than the Registrant)

Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box)

x

Definitive Proxy Statement
¨Definitive Additional Materials
¨Soliciting Material Pursuant to § 240.14a-12

Iridium Communications Inc.
(Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter)
(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement if Other Than the Registrant)
Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box)
¨No fee required.

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IRIDIUM COMMUNICATIONS INC.

1750 Tysons Boulevard, Suite 1400

McLean, Virginia 22102

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

To Be Held on May 4, 201122, 2014

Dear Stockholder:

You are cordially invited to attend the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Iridium Communications Inc., a Delaware corporation. The meeting will be held on Wednesday,Thursday, May 4, 201122, 2014 at 9:008:30 a.m. localEastern time at our corporate headquarters locatedThe Ritz-Carlton, Tysons Corner at 17501700 Tysons Boulevard, Suite 1400, McLean, Virginia 22102 for the following purposes:

 

1.

To elect the Board of Directors’ teneleven nominees for director, each for a one-year term.to serve until the next annual meeting and until their successors are duly elected and qualified;

 

2.

To approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation of our named executive officers, as disclosed in the Proxy Statement accompanying this Proxy Statement.Notice;

 

3.

To indicate, on an advisory basis, the preferred frequency of stockholder advisory votes on the compensation of our named executive officers.

4.

To ratify the selection by the Board of Directors of Ernst & Young LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for our fiscal year ending December 31, 2011.2014; and

 

5.4.

To conduct any other business properly brought before the meeting.

These items of business are more fully described in the Proxy Statement accompanying this Notice.

The record date for the annual meeting is March 23, 2011.April 1, 2014. Only stockholders of record at the close of business on that date may vote at the meeting or any adjournment thereof.

 

Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders

to Be Held on May 22, 2014 at 8:30 a.m. local time at

The Ritz-Carlton, Tysons Corner, 1700 Tysons Boulevard, McLean, Virginia 22102

The proxy statement and annual report to stockholders

are available at http://www.astproxyportal.com/ast/15777/.

Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the Stockholders’ Meeting

to Be Held on May 4, 2011 at 9:00 a.m. local time at

the offices of Iridium Communications Inc., 1750 Tysons Boulevard, Suite 1400, McLean, Virginia 22102

The proxy statement and annual report to stockholders

are available at http://www.amstock.com/ProxyServices/ViewMaterials.asp?CoNumber=15777.

By Order of the Board of Directors
LOGO
Thomas D. Hickey
Secretary

By Order of the Board of Directors

LOGO

Christian O’Connor

Secretary

McLean, Virginia

April 8, 2014

You are cordially invited to attend the meeting in person. Whether or not you expect to attend the meeting, please complete, date, sign and return the enclosed proxy, or vote over the telephone or the Internet as instructed in these materials, as promptly as possible in order to ensure your representation at the meeting. Even if you have voted by proxy, you may still vote in person if you attend the meeting. Please note, however, that if your shares are held of record by a broker, bank or other nominee and you wish to vote at the meeting, you must obtain a proxy issued in your name from that record holder.


PROXY STATEMENT SUMMARY

This summary highlights selected information contained elsewhere in our Proxy Statement. The summary does not contain all of the information that you should consider, and you should read and consider carefully the more detailed information contained in this Proxy Statement before voting.

2014 Annual Meeting of Stockholders

Time and Date:8:30 a.m. Eastern time on Thursday, May 22, 2014
Place:The Ritz-Carlton, Tysons Corner, 1700 Tysons Boulevard, McLean, Virginia 22102
Record Date:April 1, 2014
Voting:Stockholders as of the record date are entitled to vote. Each share of common stock is entitled to one vote for each director nominee and one vote for each of the other proposals to be voted on.

Meeting Agenda and Voting Matters

Agenda Items

  Board Vote
Recommendation
  Page Reference
(for more detail)
1.  To elect the Board of Directors’ eleven nominees for director, each to serve until the next annual meeting and until their successors are duly elected and qualified.  FOR EACH DIRECTOR
NOMINEE
  10
2.  To approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation of our named executive officers, as disclosed in this Proxy Statement.  FOR  20
3.  To ratify the selection by the Board of Directors of Ernst & Young LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for our fiscal year ending December 31, 2014.  FOR  21
4.  To conduct any other business properly brought before the meeting.    

Board Nominees

  Age  Director
Since
  Independent  Committees  Other Current Public
Company Boards

Name

    AC  CC  NGC  

Robert H. Niehaus

  58    2008    X     M    Heartland Payment

Systems, Inc.

Thomas C. Canfield

  58    2008    X    M     M   

Brigadier Gen. Peter M. Dawkins (Ret.)

  76    2009    X    M   

Matthew J. Desch

  56    2009       

Thomas J. Fitzpatrick

  56    2013       

Alvin B. Krongard

  77    2009    X     M    C   Under Armour, Inc., Apollo
Global Management, LLC

Admiral Eric T. Olson (Ret.)

  62    2011    X      M   Under Armour, Inc.

Steven B. Pfeiffer

  67    2009    X     C    Barloworld Limited

Parker W. Rush

  54    2008    X    C     

S. Scott Smith

  55    2013       

Barry J. West

  68    new    X      

AC = Audit Committee; CC = Compensation Committee; NGC = Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee; C = Chairman; M = Member

*

Effective immediately after the Annual Meeting.

1 2011


Our Executive Compensation Program

Our executive compensation program is designed to attract, reward and retain a talented, innovative and entrepreneurial team of executives. To do so, we believe that a majority of their target compensation should be based on performance, both of the individual and of the business. We structure our variable compensation programs to recognize both short-term and long-term contributions.

Key Elements of Executive Compensation

Compensation Component

Reason

Base Salary

We provide base salary as a fixed source of compensation for our executives for the services they provide to us during the year and to balance the impact of having a significant portion of their compensation “at risk” in the form of annual cash incentive bonuses and long-term equity-based incentive compensation. Our Compensation Committee recognizes the importance of a competitive base salary as an element of compensation that helps to attract and retain our executive officers.

Bonus

Our 2013 bonus plan provided cash compensation opportunities to our named executive officers based on our achievement of pre-established performance goals derived from our Board-approved operating plan for 2013. In March 2013, the Compensation Committee approved a target cash incentive bonus award for each executive, and capped the maximum bonus award at twice the target level in the event that stretch performance goals were achieved. These levels were consistent with our philosophy that a significant portion of each executive’s total target cash compensation should be performance-based, and reflected the Compensation Committee’s review of internal pay equity and its conclusion that, except for Mr. Smith, no extraordinary factors created a need to modify the 2012 target bonus levels. Mr. Smith’s target bonus was increased effective as of January 1, 2013 from 60% to 70% to reflect his changing role and increased level of responsibility at our organization.

Equity-Based Incentive

Compensation

The Compensation Committee believes that properly structured equity compensation works to align the long-term interests of stockholders and employees by creating a strong, direct link between employee compensation and stock price appreciation. We have historically awarded equity in the form of options, which have an exercise price equal to the fair market value of a share of our common stock on the date of grant, and vest based on continued service over a specified period (typically, four years). As a result of the way we structure our option awards, options provide a return to the executive only if such officer remains employed by us, and then only if the market price of our common stock appreciates over the term of the option. In certain cases, we have also granted restricted stock units subject to time-based vesting.

We also have a performance share program, which provides for the grant of performance-based restricted stock units. These performance shares provide a return to the executive if the executive remains employed by us and our company achieves specific performance targets from 2013 through 2014.

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Important Features of our Executive Compensation Program

The important features of our executive compensation program include:

 

YouOur executive compensation is heavily weighted toward at-risk, performance-based compensation in the form of an incentive cash bonus opportunity that is based on achievement of revenue, operational EBITDA, and sales and other strategic and financial goals selected annually by our Compensation Committee, and an equity compensation opportunity in the form of stock options, performance-based restricted stock units and time-based restricted stock units that provide incentives for our executives to meet certain performance goals and increase the market value of our common stock. In 2013, these forms of at-risk, performance-based compensation represented approximately 63% of our chief executive officer’s target total direct compensation, and an average of 54% of our other executives’ target total direct compensation.

Fifty percent of the value of annual equity awards vest based on the achievement of performance criteria.

The cash severance benefits that we offer to our executives do not exceed three times base salary and annual bonus.

We do not provide our executive officers with any excise tax or other tax gross ups.

We do not provide any defined benefit pension plans or supplemental employee retirement plans to our executive officers.

As further described below, our executives are cordially invitedrequired to attendcomply with our stock ownership guidelines, which we adopted in February 2012. Under these guidelines, our chief executive officer is required to accumulate shares of our common stock with a value equal to four times his annual base salary and our executive vice presidents, including our chief financial officer, chief operating officer and chief legal officer, are required to accumulate shares of our common stock with a value equal to two times their annual base salaries.

Our insider trading policy prohibits our employees, including our executives, directors and consultants, from hedging the economic interest in the Iridium shares they hold, and no pledges of stock occurred during 2013.

Our Compensation Committee has retained an independent third-party compensation consultant for guidance in making compensation decisions.

Our Compensation Committee reviews market practices and makes internal comparisons among our executives when making compensation decisions.

We structure our executive compensation program to try to minimize the risk of inappropriate risk-taking by our executives.

Advisory Vote on Executive Compensation—“Say-on-Pay Vote”

We conducted our third advisory vote on executive compensation, or say-on-pay vote, at our annual meeting of stockholders in person. Whether or not you expect2013. Approximately 90.9% of the votes cast on the say-on-pay proposal supported the proposal. Our Board and our Compensation Committee value the opinions of our stockholders, and we believe that it is important for our stockholders to attendhave an opportunity to vote on this proposal annually, which is consistent with the meeting, please complete, date, sign and return the enclosed proxy, or vote over the telephone or the Internet as instructed in these materials, as promptly as possible in order to ensure your representation at the meeting. Even if you have votedfrequency preferred by proxy, you may stillour stockholders. Our Compensation Committee’s decisions regarding compensation for 2013 reflected our say-on-pay vote in person if you attend2012, which was supported by approximately 91.5% of the meeting. Please note, however,votes cast

3


on the proposal. In addition to our annual advisory vote on executive compensation, we are committed to ongoing engagement with our stockholders on executive compensation and corporate governance issues.

While our 2013 say-on-pay vote was advisory only, our Compensation Committee has considered the results of the vote in the context of our overall compensation philosophy, policies and decisions. Our Compensation Committee believes that, if your shares are heldsimilar to our 2012 say-on-pay vote, this 2013 stockholder vote strongly endorsed our compensation philosophy and the decisions we made for 2012. After discussing the levels of record bysupport in each of the three years in favor of the proposals, and considering the Compensation Committee’s activity in 2012 to adopt additional measures, including stock ownership guidelines and a broker, bank or other nomineenew performance-based restricted stock unit program to further align management and you wishstockholder interests, our Compensation Committee decided to vote at the meeting, you must obtaingenerally maintain a proxy issued in your name from that record holder.consistent course for 2013 compensation decisions.

4


IRIDIUM COMMUNICATIONS INC.

1750 Tysons Boulevard, Suite 1400, McLean, Virginia 22102

PROXY STATEMENT

FOR THE 20112014 ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

To Be Held on May 4, 201122, 2014

QUESTIONS QUESTIONSAND ANSWERS ABOUT THESE PROXY MATERIALS ANSWERS ABOUT THESE PROXY MATERIALSAND VOTING VOTING

Why amWHYAM I receiving these materials?RECEIVINGTHESEMATERIALS?

We have sent you these proxy materials because the Board of Directors of Iridium Communications Inc. (sometimes referred to as the Company or Iridium) is soliciting your proxy to vote at the 20112014 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, including at any adjournments or postponements of the meeting. You are invited to attend the annual meeting to vote on the proposals described in this proxy statement. However, you do not need to attend the meeting to vote your shares. Instead, you may simply complete, sign and return the enclosed proxy card, or follow the instructions below to submit your proxy over the telephone or through the Internet.

We intend to mail these proxy materials on or about April 1, 201118, 2014 to all stockholders of record entitled to vote at the annual meeting.

How doHOWDO I attend the annual meeting?ATTENDTHEANNUALMEETING?

The meeting will be held on Wednesday,Thursday, May 4, 201122, 2014 at 9:008:30 a.m. localEastern time at the offices of Iridium Communications Inc., 1750The Ritz-Carlton, Tysons Corner, 1700 Tysons Boulevard, Suite 1400, McLean, Virginia 22102. Directions to our officesthe meeting location may be found at www.iridium.com.http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/TysonsCorner/Information/Directions/Default.htm. Information on how to vote in person at the annual meeting is discussed below.

Who can vote at the annual meeting?WHOCANVOTEATTHEANNUALMEETING?

Only stockholders of record at the close of business on March 23, 2011April 1, 2014 will be entitled to vote at the annual meeting. On this record date, there were 70,253,60176,838,663 shares of common stock outstanding and entitled to vote.

Stockholder of Record: Shares Registered in Your Name

If at the close of business on March 23, 2011April 1, 2014, your shares were registered directly in your name with our transfer agent, American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC, then you are a stockholder of record. As a stockholder of record, you may vote in person at the meeting or vote by proxy. Whether or not you plan to attend the meeting, we urge you to fill out and return the enclosed proxy card or vote by proxy over the telephone or onthrough the Internet as instructed below to ensure your vote is counted.

Beneficial Owner: Shares Registered in the Name of a Broker or Bank

If at the close of business on March 23, 2011April 1, 2014, your shares were held in an account at a brokerage firm, bank, dealer or other similar organization, rather than in your own name, then you are the beneficial owner of shares held in “street name” and these proxy materials are being forwarded to you by that organization. The organization holding your account is considered to be the stockholder of record for purposes of voting at the annual meeting. As a beneficial owner, you have the right to direct your broker or other agent regarding how to vote the shares in your account. You are also invited to attend the annual meeting. However, since you are not the stockholder of record, you may not vote your shares in person at the meeting unless you request and obtain a valid proxy from your broker or other agent.

 

1.5


What amWHATAM I voting on?VOTINGON?

There are fourthree matters scheduled for a vote:

 

the election of teneleven directors;

 

the advisory approval of the compensation of our named executive officers, as disclosed in this proxy statement in accordance with Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC, rules;

the advisory indication of the preferred frequency of stockholder advisory votes on the compensation of our named executive officers; and

 

the ratification of the selection by the Board of Directors of Ernst & Young LLP or E&Y, as our independent registered public accounting firm for our fiscal year ending December 31, 2011.2014.

What if another matter is properly brought before the meeting?WHATIFANOTHERMATTERISPROPERLYBROUGHTBEFORETHEMEETING?

The Board of Directors knows of no other matters that will be presented for consideration at the annual meeting. If any other matter is properly presented at the meeting, your proxyholder (one of the individuals named on your proxy card) will vote your shares using his best judgment.

How doHOWDO I vote?VOTE?

You may either vote “For” all the nominees to the Board of Directors or you may “Withhold” your vote for any nomineeone or more nominees you specify. With regard to the advisory vote on how frequently we should solicit stockholder advisory approval of executive compensation, you may vote for any one of the following: one year, two years or three years, or you may abstain from voting on that matter. For each of the other matters to be voted on, you may vote “For” or “Against” or abstain from voting.

The procedures for voting are fairly simple:

Stockholder of Record: Shares Registered in Your Name

If you are a stockholder of record, you may vote in person at the annual meeting, vote by proxy using the enclosed proxy card, vote by proxy over the telephone or vote by proxy through the Internet. Whether or not you plan to attend the meeting, we urge you to vote by proxy to ensure your vote is counted. You may still attend the meeting and vote in person even if you have already voted by proxy.

 

To vote in person, come to the annual meeting and we will give you a ballot when you arrive.

 

To vote using the proxy card, simply complete, sign and date the enclosed proxy card and return it promptly in the envelope provided. If you return your signed proxy card to us before the annual meeting, we will vote your shares as you direct.

 

To vote over the telephone, dial toll-free 1-800-PROXIES (1-800-776-9437) using a touch-tone phone and follow the recorded instructions. You will be asked to provide the company number and control number from the enclosed proxy card. Your vote must be received by 11:59 p.m. localEastern time on May 3, 201121, 2014 to be counted.

 

To vote through the Internet, go to www.voteproxy.com to complete an electronic proxy card. You will be asked to provide the company number and control number from the enclosed proxy card. Your vote must be received by 11:59 p.m. localEastern time on May 3, 201121, 2014 to be counted.

Beneficial Owner: Shares Registered in the Name of Broker or Bank

If you are a beneficial owner of shares registered in the name of your broker, bank or other agent, you should have received a proxy card and voting instructions with these proxy materials from that organization rather than from us. Simply complete and mail the proxy card to ensure that your vote is counted. Alternatively, you may

2.


vote by telephone or overthrough the Internet as instructed by your broker or bank. To vote in person at the annual meeting, you must obtain a valid proxy from your broker, bank, or other agent. Follow the instructions from your broker or bank included with these proxy materials, or contact your broker or bank to request a proxy form.

 

6


We provide Internet proxy voting to allow you to vote your shares online, with procedures designed to ensure the authenticity and correctness of your proxy vote instructions. However, please be aware that you must bear any costs associated with your Internet access, such as usage charges from Internet access providers and telephone companies.

We provide Internet proxy voting to allow you to vote your shares online, with procedures designed to ensure the authenticity and correctness of your proxy vote instructions. However, please be aware that you must bear any costs associated with your Internet access, such as usage charges from Internet access providers and telephone companies.

How many votes doHOWMANYVOTESDO I have?HAVE?

On each matter to be voted upon, you have one vote for each share of common stock you owned at the close of business on March 23, 2011.April 1, 2014.

What ifWHATHAPPENSIF I returnDONOTVOTE?

Stockholder of Record: Shares Registered in Your Name

If you are a stockholder of record and do not vote by completing your proxy card, by telephone, through the Internet or otherwise vote butin person at the annual meeting, your shares will not be voted, nor will your shares count toward the establishment of a quorum for the meeting.

Beneficial Owner: Shares Registered in the Name of Broker or Bank

If you are a beneficial owner and do not make specific choices?instruct your broker, bank or other agent how to vote your shares, the question of whether your broker or nominee will still be able to vote your shares depends on whether the proposal is considered to be a “routine” matter. See below under “What are broker non-votes?” for more information. Accordingly, your broker or nominee may not vote your shares on Proposals 1 or 2 without your instructions, but may vote your shares on Proposal 3.

WHATIF IRETURNAPROXYCARDOROTHERWISEVOTEBUTDONOTMAKESPECIFICCHOICES?

If you return a signed and dated proxy card or otherwise vote without marking voting selections, your shares will be voted, as applicable, “For” the election of all teneleven nominees for director, “For” the advisory approval of executive compensation, “Abstain” in the vote for the preferred frequency of advisory votes to approve executive compensation and “For” the ratification of the selection by the Board of Directors of E&YErnst & Young LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for our fiscal year ending December 31, 2011.2014. If any other matter is properly presented at the meeting, your proxyholder (one of the individuals named on your proxy card) will vote your shares using his best judgment.

Who is paying for this proxy solicitation?WHOISPAYINGFORTHISPROXYSOLICITATION?

We will pay for the entire cost of soliciting proxies. In addition to these proxy materials, our directors and employees and Georgeson Inc., or Georgeson, may also solicit proxies in person, by telephone, or by other means of communication. Directors and employees will not be paid any additional compensation for soliciting proxies, but Georgeson will be paid its customary fee of approximately $6,500 plus out-of-pocket expenses if it solicits proxies. We may also reimburse brokerage firms, banks and other agents for the cost of forwarding proxy materials to beneficial owners.

What does it mean ifWHATDOESITMEANIF I receive more than one set of proxy materials?RECEIVEMORETHANONESETOFPROXYMATERIALS?

If you receive more than one set of proxy materials, your shares may be registered in more than one name or in different accounts. Please follow the voting instructions on the proxy cards in the proxy materials to ensure that all of your shares are voted.

7


CanCAN I change my vote after submitting my proxy?CHANGEMYVOTEAFTERSUBMITTINGMYPROXY?

Yes. You can revoke your proxy at any time before the final vote at the meeting. If you are the record holder of your shares, you may revoke your proxy in any one of the following ways:

 

You may submit another properly completed proxy card with a later date.

 

You may grant a subsequent proxy by telephone or through the Internet.

 

You may send a timely written notice that you are revoking your proxy to our Secretary at 1750 Tysons Boulevard, Suite 1400, McLean, Virginia 22102.

 

You may attend the annual meeting and vote in person. Simply attending the meeting will not, by itself, revoke your proxy.

3.


Your most recent proxy card or telephone or Internet proxy is the one that is counted.

If your shares are held by your broker or bank as a nominee or agent, you should follow the instructions provided by your broker or bank.bank for changing your vote.

When are stockholder proposals due for next year’s annual meeting?WHENARESTOCKHOLDERPROPOSALSANDDIRECTORNOMINATIONSDUEFORNEXTYEARSANNUALMEETING?

To be considered for inclusion in next year’s proxy materials, your proposal must be submitted in writing by December 5, 2012,19, 2014 to our Secretary at 1750 Tysons Boulevard, Suite 1400, McLean, Virginia 22102. If you wish to submit a proposal that is not to be acted on at next year’s annual meeting but not included in next year’s proxy materials, or if you wish to nominate a director, you must provide written notice as required by our Bylaws no earlier than January 22, 2015 and no later than the close of business on February 6, 2012 and no earlier than January 5, 201221, 2015 to our Secretary at 1750 Tysons Boulevard, Suite 1400, McLean, Virginia 22102. You are also advised to review our Bylaws, filed with the SEC as an exhibit to a current report on Form 8-K on September 29, 2009, which contain additional requirements about advance notice of stockholder proposals and director nominations.

How are votes counted?HOWAREVOTESCOUNTED?

Votes will be counted by the inspector of election appointed for the meeting, who will separately count, for the proposal to elect directors, votes “For,” “Withhold” and broker non-votes; with respect to the proposal regarding frequency of stockholder advisory votes to approve executive compensation, votes for frequencies of one year, two years or three years, abstentions and broker non-votes; and, with respect to other proposals, votes “For” and “Against,” abstentions and, if applicable, broker non-votes. Abstentions will be counted towards the vote total for each proposal, other than the election of directors (Proposal 1) and the preferred frequency of stockholder advisory votes on the compensation of our named executive officers (Proposal 3), and will have the same effect as “Against” votes. For Proposal 3, abstentions will have no effect and will not be counted towards the vote total. Broker non-votes will have no effect and will not be counted towards the vote total for any proposal.

What are “broker non-votes”WHATAREBROKERNON-VOTES?

Broker non-votes occur when a beneficial owner of shares held in “street name” does not give instructions to the broker or nominee holding the shares as to how to vote on matters deemed “non-routine.” Generally, if shares are held in street name, the beneficial owner of the shares is entitled to give voting instructions to the broker or nominee holding the shares. If the beneficial owner does not provide voting instructions, the broker or nominee can still vote the shares with respect to matters that are considered to be “routine,” but not with respect to “non-routine” matters. Under the rules and interpretations of the New York Stock Exchange, or NYSE, “non-routine” matters are matters that may substantially affect the rights or privileges of shareholders, such as mergers, shareholder proposals, elections of directors, even if not contested, and for the first time, under a new amendment to the NYSE rules, executive compensation, including the advisory stockholder votes on executive compensation and on the frequency of stockholder votes on executive compensation. Broker non-votes are counted toward a quorum.

8


How many votes are needed to approve each proposal?HOWMANYVOTESARENEEDEDTOAPPROVEEACHPROPOSAL?

 

For Proposal No. 1, the election of directors, the teneleven nominees receiving the most “For” votes (from the holders of votes of shares present in person or represented by proxy and entitled to vote on the election of directors) will be elected. Only votes “For” or “Withheld”“Withhold” will affect the outcome.

 

To be approved, Proposal No. 2, the advisory approval of the compensation of our named executive officers, will be considered to be approved if it receives “For” votes from the holders of a majority of shares represented and entitled to vote thereat either in person or by proxy. If you “Abstain” from voting, it will have the same effect as an “Against” vote. Broker non-votes will have no effect.

4.


For Proposal No. 3, the advisory vote on the frequency of stockholder advisory votes on executive compensation, the frequency receiving the highest number of “For” votes from the holders of shares represented and entitled to vote thereat either in person or by proxy will be considered the frequency preferred by the stockholders. Abstentions and broker non-votes will have no effect.

To be approved, Proposal No. 4, the ratification of the selection by the Board of Directors of E&Y as our independent registered public accounting firm for our fiscal year ending December 31, 2011, must receive “For” votes from the holders of a majority of shares represented and entitled to vote thereat either in person or by proxy. If you “Abstain” from voting, it will have the same effect as an “Against” vote. Broker non-votes will have no effect.

What is

To be approved, Proposal 3, the quorum requirement?ratification of the selection by the Board of Directors of Ernst & Young LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for our fiscal year ending December 31, 2014, must receive “For” votes from the holders of a majority of shares represented and entitled to vote thereat either in person or by proxy. If you “Abstain” from voting, it will have the same effect as an “Against” vote. Broker non-votes will have no effect.

WHATISTHEQUORUMREQUIREMENT?

A quorum of stockholders is necessary to hold a valid meeting. A quorum will be present if stockholders holding at least a majority of the outstanding shares entitled to vote are present at the meeting in person or represented by proxy. On the record date, there were 70,253,60176,838,663 shares outstanding and entitled to vote. Thus, the holders of 35,126,80138,419,332 shares must be present in person or represented by proxy at the meeting to have a quorum.

Your shares will be counted towards the quorum only if you submit a valid proxy (or one is submitted on your behalf by your broker, bank or other nominee) or if you vote in person at the meeting. Abstentions and broker non-votes will be counted towards the quorum requirement. If there is no quorum, the holders of a majority of shares present at the meeting in person or represented by proxy may adjourn the meeting to another date.

How canHOWCAN I find out the results of the voting at the annual meeting?FINDOUTTHERESULTSOFTHEVOTINGATTHEANNUALMEETING?

Preliminary voting results will be announced at the annual meeting. In addition, final voting results will be published in a current report on Form 8-K that we expect to file with the SEC within four business days after the annual meeting. If final voting results are not available to us in time to file a Form 8-K within four business days after the meeting, we intend to file a Form 8-K to publish preliminary results and, within four business days after the final results are known to us, file an additional Form 8-K to publish the final results.

What proxy materials are available on the Internet?WHATPROXYMATERIALSAREAVAILABLEONTHE INTERNET?

The proxy statement and annual report to stockholders are available at http://www.amstock.com/ProxyServices/ViewMaterials.asp?CoNumber=15777.www.astproxyportal.com/ast/15777/.

 

5.9


PROPOSAL 1

ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

Our Board of Directors currently consists of teneleven directors. There are teneleven nominees for director this year. Each current director other than J. Darrel Barros is a nominee, and there is one new director nominee, Barry J. West. Mr. West was recommended for nomination to the Board of Directors by the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, after consideration by the Committee of a number of potential candidates identified by our chief executive officer. Each director to be elected and qualified will hold office until the next annual meeting of stockholders and until his successor is elected, or, if sooner, until the director’s death, resignation or removal. Each of the nominees listed below is currently a director of the Company. It is our policy to invite nominees for directors to attend the annual meeting. Last year, nineAll of our currently serving directors attended our annual meeting of stockholders.stockholders last year.

Directors are elected by a plurality of the votes of the holders of shares present in person or represented by proxy and entitled to vote on the election of directors. Proxies may not be voted for more than eleven nominees. The teneleven nominees receiving the highest number of affirmative votes will be elected. Shares represented by executed proxies will be voted, if authority to do so is not withheld, for the election of the teneleven nominees named below. If any nominee becomes unavailable for election as a result of an unexpected occurrence, your shares will be voted for the election of a substitute nominee proposed by us. Each person nominated for election has agreed to serve if elected. Our management has no reason to believe that any nominee will be unable to serve.

Our Corporate Governance Guidelines provide that any nominee who receives a greater number of votes “withheld” than votes “for” must submit an offer of resignation to our Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. The committee will consider the facts and circumstances and recommend to the Board of Directors the action to be taken with respect to such offer of resignation. The Board of Directors will then act on the committee’s recommendation.

NOMINEES

The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee of our Board seeks to assemble a board that, as a whole, possesses the appropriate balance of professional and industry knowledge, financial expertise and high-level management experience necessary to oversee and direct our business. To that end, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee has identified and evaluated nominees in the broader context of the Board’s overall composition, with the goal of recruiting members who complement and strengthen the skills of other members and who also exhibit integrity, collegiality, sound business judgment and other qualities that the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee views as critical to effective functioning of the Board.

The brief biographies below include information, as of the date of this proxy statement, regarding the specific and particular experience, qualifications, attributes or skills of each director or nominee that led the Board of DirectorsNominating and Corporate Governance Committee to believerecommend that thatperson as a nominee should continue to serve on the Board.for director. However, each member of the members of the Boardcommittee may have a variety of reasons why he believes a particular person would be an appropriate nominee for the Board, and these views may differ from the views of other members.

Robert H. Niehaus,Age 55. Mr. Niehaus age 58, has served as a memberdirector of our company since February 2008 and as Chairman of our Board of Directors since our inception and has served as our Chairman since September 2009. Mr. Niehaus also served as our Chief Executive Officer for a brief period in September 2009. He has beenMr. Niehaus is the founder and Chairman of GCP Capital Partners LLC, an investment firm formed in 2009 as the successor to Greenhill Capital Partners, since June 2000. Mr. Niehaus has been a memberthe merchant banking business of Greenhill’s management committee since its formation in January 2004.Greenhill & Co., Inc. Mr. Niehaus joined Greenhill & Co., Inc. in January 2000 as a Managing Director to begin the formation of Greenhill Capital Partners. He currently servesPartners and served as an Advisory Directorits Chairman and Chair of Greenhill & Co., Inc. and Chairman of GCP Capital Partners Holdings LLC. its Investment Committee from 2000 to 2009.

Prior to joining Greenhill, Mr. Niehaus spent 17 years at Morgan Stanley & Co., or Morgan Stanley, where he was a Managing Director in the merchant banking department from 1990 to 1999. Mr. Niehaus was Vice Chairman and a director of the private equity investment funds Morgan Stanley Leveraged Equity Fund II, L.P., a $2.2 billion private equity investment fund, from 1992 to 1999, and was Vice Chairman and a director of Morgan Stanley

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Capital Partners III, L.P., a $1.8 billion private equity investment fund, from 1994 to 1999. Mr. Niehaus was also the Chief Operating Officer of Morgan Stanley’s merchant banking department from 1996 to 1998.

Mr. Niehaus currently serves as a director of Heartland Payment Systems, Inc., or Heartland,a publicly held provider of payment processing services, and previouslyseveral private portfolio companies of GCP Capital Partners. Within the past five years, he has also served as a directoron the boards of directors of the following publicly held companies: American Italian Pasta Company from 1992 to January 2008,companies Crusader Energy Group Inc. from July 2008 to July 2009,and EXCO Resources Inc. from November 2004 to June 2009, Global Signal, Inc. from October 2002 until its merger with Crown Castle International Corp., or Crown Castle, in January 2007, and Crown Castle from January 2007 to July 2007. Mr. Niehaus isreceived a graduateBachelor of Arts in International Affairs from the Woodrow Wilson School at Princeton University and a Masters of Business Administration degree from the Harvard Business School, from which he graduated with high

6.


distinction as a Baker Scholar. Our Board of Directors has concluded thatbelieves Mr. Niehaus shouldNiehaus’s qualifications to serve on theour Board and on the Compensation Committee based oninclude his extensive corporate management experience, his financial and investment banking expertise and his experience in working with telecommunications companies.

J. Darrel Barros, Age 50. Mr. Barros has servedserving on our Boardthe boards of Directors since September 2009. Mr. Barros has served as the Presidentdirectors of Syndicated Communications, Inc., a private equity fund focused on media and communications, since 2006. He also has served as President of VGC, PC, a Washington, D.C. based law firm specializing in private equity and early-stage investments, from 2003 to the present. Mr. Barros also served as a corporate and securities attorneynumerous companies, particularly in the venture capital practice group of DLA Piper US LLP from 1997 to 2003. He is currently Executive Chairman of Haven Media Group, LLC, a music-media company, and Chairman of Prestige Resort Properties, Inc., a resort and hospitality company. Mr. Barros is also a director of Maya Cinemas. Mr. Barros received a Bachelor of Science degree from Tufts University, a Master in Business Administration from the Amos Tuck School of Business in Dartmouth College, and a Juris Doctorate degree from the University of Michigan. Our Board of Directors has concluded that Mr. Barros should serve on the Board and on the Audit Committee based on his extensive experience in working with technology companies and his financial management experience.

Scott L. Bok, age 51. Mr. Bok has served on our Board of Directors since our inception. He also served as our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer from our formation in November 2007 until September 2009. Separately, Mr. Bok has served as Chief Executive Officer or Co-Chief Executive Officer of Greenhill & Co., Inc., since October 2007, served as its U.S. President between January 2004 and October 2007 and has been a member of its management committee since its formation in January 2004. In addition, Mr. Bok has been a director of Greenhill since its incorporation in March 2004. Mr. Bok joined Greenhill as a Managing Director in February 1997. Before joining Greenhill, Mr. Bok was a Managing Director in the mergers, acquisitions and restructuring department of Morgan Stanley where he worked from 1986 to 1997. From 1984 to 1986, Mr. Bok practiced mergers and acquisitions and securities law in New York with Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz. Mr. Bok was previously a member of the Board of Heartland from 2001 to 2008. Mr. Bok is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School. He holds a Juris Doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania Law School. Our Board of Directors has concluded that Mr. Bok should serve on the Board and on the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee based on his extensive corporate management experience and his financial expertise.telecommunications industry.

Thomas C. Canfield,,Age 55. Mr. Canfield age 58, has served onas a director of our Board of Directorscompany since our inception.February 2008. Since October 2007, Mr. Canfield has served as Senior Vice President-GeneralPresident, General Counsel &and Secretary of Spirit Airlines, Inc. sinceFrom September 2006 to October 2007. Previously,2007, Mr. Canfield wasserved as General Counsel & Secretary of Point Blank Solutions, Inc. and was, a manufacturer of antiballistic body armor. Prior to Point Blank, from 2004 to 2007, he served as Chief Executive Officer and Plan Administrator for AT&T Latin America Corp. Prior to assuming those roles, Mr. Canfield was General Counsel and Secretary of AT&T Latin America Corp. following its acquisition by, a public company formerly known as FirstCom Corporation.Corporation, which developed high-speed fiber networks in Latin American cities. Mr. Canfield also served as General Counsel and Secretary at AT&T Latin America Corp. filed for bankruptcy in April 2003. Mr. Canfield became General Counsel of FirstCom in May 2000. Priorfrom 1999 to joining FirstCom,2004. Previously, Mr. Canfield was Counsel in the New York office of the law firm Debevoise & Plimpton LLP, where for nineLLP. Within the past five years, he practiced in the areas of corporate, securities and international transactions. Mr. Canfield previously served as a member of the Boardboard of Directorsdirectors of Tricom SA from 2004 until 2010 and asS.A., a member of the Board of Directors of Birch Telecom Inc. from 2006 to 2008.publicly held telecommunications company. Our Board of Directors has concluded thatdirectors believes Mr. Canfield shouldCanfield’s qualifications to serve on theour Board and on the Audit Committee based oninclude his management experience in the telecommunications industry and his particular familiarity with serving on the boardsas a director of technology companies.

Brigadier Gen. Peter M. Dawkins (Ret.),,age 73. Brigadier General Dawkins, U.S. Army (Retired),76, has served onas a director of our Board of Directorscompany since October 2009. Gen. Dawkins has been a Senior Partner at Flintlock Capital Asset Management LLC since July 2009. Gen. DawkinsHe is currently a member of the advisory board of Wilmington Trust FSB. He is also Founder and Principal of ShiningStar Capital LLC, or ShiningStar, which he founded in May 2008. Prior2008, and a Senior Advisor to founding ShiningStar, Gen.Virtu Financial LLC. Previously, General Dawkins wasserved as Vice Chairman of Global Wealth Management for Citigroup Inc., or Citigroup, from August 2007 to May 2008,as Vice Chairman of the Citigroup Private Bank, from

7.


2000 to August 2007, and as Executive Vice President and Vice Chairman of The Travelers Companies, Inc. during an eleven-yeareleven year tenure with thethat firm. Previously, fromFrom 1991 to 1996, he served as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Primerica Financial Services, Inc., and earlier served as head of the U.S. consulting practice of Bain & Company Inc. Gen.General Dawkins began his career in the private sector as head of the Public Financing Banking division of Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc. A 1959 graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, Gen.General Dawkins served in the U.S. Army for 24 years. He wasyears, being promoted to Brigadier General in 1981. Gen. Dawkins holds a Ph.D. and Master’s degree from the Woodrow Wilson School at Princeton University. He was selected as a Rhodes Scholar and studied at Oxford University, later earning Ph.D. and Master of Public Administration degrees from 1959 through 1962.the Woodrow Wilson School at Princeton University. General Dawkins is currently a member of the advisory board of Wilmington Trust FSB. Our Board of Directors has concluded that Gen. Dawkins shouldbelieves General Dawkins’s qualifications to serve on theour Board based oninclude his extensive corporate management experience, his military experience and his financial expertise.

Matthew J. Desch,, age 53. Mr. Desch56, has beenserved as our Chief Executive Officer and a memberdirector of our Board of Directorscompany since September 2009 when we purchased, directly or indirectly, all of the outstanding equity of Iridium Holdings LLC, or Iridium Holdings, in a transaction that we refer to as the Acquisition. Mr. Deschand previously served as Chief Executive Officer of Iridium Holdings from August 2006 to September 2009. Before that, he wasFrom 2002 to 2005, Mr. Desch served as Chief Executive Officer of Telcordia Technologies, Inc., or Telcordia, a telecomtelecommunications software services provider, from 2002 to November 2005. Prior to Telcordia,provider. Previously, he spent 13 years at Nortel Networks Corporation, or Nortel, including as President forof its global wireless networks business from 1996 to 1999 and as President of Global Carriers responsible for all carrier customers outside of North America, from 1999 until he left in Marchto 2000. Within the past five years, Mr. Desch served on the Boardboards of Directorsdirectors of the public companies Starent Networks Corp. from 2005 until late 2009 and served on the Board of Directors of Airspan Networks, Inc. from 2000 to 2009. He hasalso serves on the President’s National Security Telecommunications Advice Committee. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from The Ohio State University and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago. Our Board of Directors has concluded thatbelieves Mr. Desch shouldDesch’s qualifications to serve on theour Board based oninclude his deep knowledge of our company gained from his position as our Chief Executive Officer and previously as the Chief Executive Officer of Iridium Holdings, as well as his extensive experience in the telecommunications industry.

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Terry L. JonesThomas J. Fitzpatrick, age 56, has served as our Chief Financial Officer since April 2010 and as our Chief Administrative Officer and a director of our company since August 2013. From 2002 to December 2009, Mr. Fitzpatrick was Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Centennial Communications Corp., age 64a publicly traded telecommunications company that was acquired by AT&T in November 2009. Previously, Mr. Fitzpatrick served as Chief Financial Officer of a number of privately held and publicly traded companies in the telecommunications and technology industries and was a Vice President with Bell Atlantic Corporation (now Verizon). Mr. Jones has served on our Board of Directors since the Acquisition in September 2009 and served on the Board of Directors of Iridium Holdings from 2001 to September 2009. Mr. Jones is the Managing Member of the General Partner of Syndicated Communications Venture Partners IV, L.P. and the Managing Member of Syncom Venture Management Co., LLC. Prior to joining Syncom in 1978, he was co-founding stockholder and Vice President of Kiambere Savings and Loan in Nairobi, and a lecturer at the University of Nairobi. He also worked as a Senior Electrical Engineer for the Westinghouse Electric Corporation, Aerospace Division, and Litton Industries Corp. He is a member of the Boards of Directors of Radio One, Inc. and PKS Communications, Inc. He formerly served on the Board of the Southern African Enterprise Development Fund, and is on the Board of Trustees of Spellman College. Mr. Jones receivedFitzpatrick graduated with a Bachelor of ScienceBusiness Administration degree in Electrical Engineering from Trinity College,Pennsylvania State University and a Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from George Washington University and a Masters of Business Administration degree from HarvardVillanova University. Mr. Fitzpatrick is also a Certified Public Accountant. Our Board of Directors has concluded thatbelieves Mr. Jones shouldFitzpatrick’s qualifications to serve on theour Board and on the Compensation and Nominating and Corporate Governance Committees based on his extensive corporate management experience and, as a long-term member of the Board of Iridium Holdings,include his deep knowledge of our company.company gained from his position as our Chief Financial Officer, as well as his extensive financial experience in the telecommunications industry.

Alvin B. Krongard,, age 74. Mr. Krongard77, has served as a memberdirector of our Board of Directorscompany since the Acquisition in September 2009 and previously served as a member of the Board of Directorsdirector of Iridium Holdings from 2006 tountil September 2009. Since 2004, Mr. Krongard has been pursuingpursing personal interests. In 1991,He served as Executive Director of the Central Intelligence Agency from 2001 to 2004 and as counselor to the Director of the Central Intelligence Agency from 2000 to 2001. Mr. Krongard was electedpreviously served in various capacities at Alex.Brown, Incorporated, including serving as Chief Executive Officer of Alex. Brown Incorporated, or Alex. Brown, an investment banking firm,beginning in 1991 and in 1994, he becameassuming additional duties as Chairman of the Boardboard of Directorsdirectors in 1994. Upon the merger of Alex. Brown.Alex.Brown with Bankers Trust Corporation in 1997, Mr. Krongard also served asbecame Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of Bankers Trust Company N.A. from 1997 to 1998,and served in addition to holding other financial industry posts. He served as Counselor tosuch capacity until joining the Director of the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency from 1998 to 2001,in 1998. He currently serves as the lead independent director and then as Executive Directorchairman of the CIA from 2001 to 2004. Mr. Krongard served onaudit committee of the Boardboard of Directors of PHH Corporation from January 2005 to June 2009. He serves on the Board of Directorsdirectors of Under Armour, Inc., and also serves as Vice Chairmana director of The Johns Hopkins Health System Corporation.Apollo Global Management and a member of the audit committee of its board of directors. Mr. Krongard

8.


received a Bachelor of Arts degree graduated with honors from Princeton University and received a Juris Doctorate degreeJ.D. from the University of Maryland School of Law.Law, where he also graduated with honors. Mr. Krongard also serves as the Vice Chairman of the Johns Hopkins Health System. Our Board of Directors has concluded thatbelieves Mr. Krongard shouldKrongard’s qualifications to serve on theour Board include his past leadership experience with a large publicly-traded investment banking firm Alex.Brown, Incorporated, including as Chief Executive Officer and on the Compensation and Nominating and Corporate Governance Committees based on his extensive corporate management experience, his experience leading an agency of the U.S. government and, as a memberChairman of the Board, his past leadership experience with the Central Intelligence Agency, including serving as Executive Director responsible for overall operations of Iridium Holdings,the agency, and his deep knowledge of our company.company dating to his time as a director of Iridium Holdings.

Admiral Eric T. Olson (Ret.), age 62, has served as a director of our company since December 2011. Admiral Olson retired from the United States Navy in 2011 as a full Admiral after 38 years of military service. He served in special operations units throughout his career, during which he earned a Master’s Degree in National Security Affairs and was awarded several decorations for leadership and valor, including the Defense Distinguished Service Medal and the Silver Star. Admiral Olson was the first Navy SEAL officer to be promoted to three- and four-star ranks. Admiral Olson’s career culminated as the head of the United States Special Operations Command from July 2007 to August 2011, where he was responsible for the mission readiness of all Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps special operations forces. As President and Managing Member of ETO Group, LLC since September 2011, Admiral Olson is now an independent national security consultant who supports a wide range of private and public sector organizations. Admiral Olson serves on the board of directors of Under Armour, Inc. and is a member of its nominating and corporate governance committee and also serves as a Director of the non-profit Special Operations Warrior Foundation. Admiral Olson graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1973 and earned a Master of Arts degree in National Security Affairs at the Naval Postgraduate School. He is an Adjunct Professor in the School of International and Public Affairs at Columbia University. Our Board of Directors believes Admiral Olson’s qualifications to serve on our Board include his past leadership experience as Admiral in the United States Navy, including his leadership and management of a large and complex organization as head of the United States Special Operations Command.

Steven B. Pfeiffer,Age 64. Mr. Pfeiffer age 67, has served onas a director of our Board of Directorscompany since September 2009 and served on the Board of Directors of Iridium Holdings from 2001 to September 2009. Mr. Pfeiffer has been a partner in the law firm of Fulbright & Jaworski LLP since 1983 and has served as the elected ChairChairman of the firm’sits Executive Committee since 2003.from 2003 to 2012. He previously served as the Partner-In-Charge of the Washington, D.C. and London offices, and headed

12


the firm’s International Department. In 2013, Fulbright & Jaworski LLP became a member of Norton Rose Fulbright Verein, a Swiss Verein. Mr. Pfeiffer is also a Non-Executive Director of Barloworld Limited, (aa public company in South Africa on whose compensation, nominating and general purposes committeecommittees he serves) in South Africa,also serves. Mr. Pfieffer is a Non-Executive Director of Borghese International Ltd. He also serves as Chairman Emeritus of Wesleyan University, a Trustee of The Africa-America Institute in New York, a Director of Project HOPE in Washington, D.C., and a Director of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc. Mr. Pfeiffer received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Wesleyan University and studied at Oxford University as a Rhodes Scholar, completing a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Masters degree in jurisprudence. He also holds a Masters degree in Area Studies (Africa) from the School of Oriental and African Studies of the University of London and holds a Juris Doctorate degree from Yale University. Mr. Pfeiffer served as an officer on active and reserve duty in the U.S. Navy. In 2010, he was recognized by the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) as one of the top 100 non-executive directors in the United States. Our Board of Directors has concluded thatbelieves Mr. Pfeiffer shouldPfeiffer’s qualifications to serve on theour Board and on the Compensation Committee based oninclude his extensive corporate management experience, his experience in working with technology companies, and, as a long-term member of the Board of Directors of Iridium Holdings, his deep knowledge of our company.

Parker W. Rush,, age 51.54, has served as a director of our company since February 2008. Since July 2012, Mr. Rush has served on our Boardas Chief Executive Officer of Directors since our inception.ClearView Risk Holdings LLC. Since March 2012, he has also served as a Partner at Consult PWR, LLC. From 2003 until March 2012, Mr. Rush has served as the President and Chief Executive Officer and as a member of the Boardboard of Directorsdirectors of Republic Companies Group, Inc., or Republic, a provider of property and casualty insurance since December 2003. Prior to his employment with Republic,company. Previously, Mr. Rush served in various capacities at The Chubb Corporation from 1980 to 2003, including as a Senior Vice President and Managing Director at The Chubb Corporation and in various other capacities since February 1980.Director. Mr. Rush alsoreceived a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of Texas. Mr. Rush currently serves as a member of the Boardsboards of Directors fordirectors of American Independent Insurance Company and ArtBanc International, Ltd., Inc. Mr. Rush is also anand as a member of the Advisory Board Member for the Dallas/Ft.Dallas / Fort Worth Salvation Army. Our Board of Directors has concludedbelieves that Mr. Rush shouldRush’s qualifications to serve on theour Board and on the Audit Committee based oninclude his extensive corporate management experience and his financial expertise,expertise.

S. Scott Smith, age 55, has served as our Chief Operating Officer and a director of our company since August 2013. He previously served as our Executive Vice President, Satellite Development and Operations from April 2010 to August 2013. From 2006 to March 2010, Mr. Smith served as Chief Operating Officer of DigitalGlobe Inc. From 1995 to 2006, he held various positions at Space Imaging Inc., most recently as Executive Vice President, Sales, Engineering and Operations. Previously, Mr. Smith served in a number of engineering and management positions with Lockheed Missiles & Space Company. Mr. Smith is currently a member of the board of directors of SkyBox Imaging, Inc. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering from Syracuse University and a Master of Science degree in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering from Stanford University. Our Board of Directors believes Mr. Smith’s qualifications to serve on our Board include his deep knowledge of our company gained from his previous position as our Executive Vice President, Satellite Development and Operations.

Barry J. West, age 68, is a director nominee and has not previously served on our Board of Directors. Mr. West has served as Chief Executive Officer of Collision Communications Inc., a telecommunications company, since May 2011. From June 2010 to May 2011, he was a consultant to companies in the mobile broadband industry. From November 2008 to June 2010, he served as the President and Chief Architect of Clearwire Corporation and as its President of International Operations. From 2005 to November 2008, he served in a number of roles with Sprint Nextel Corp., including as its Chief Technical Officer and President of its 4G Mobile Broadband unit (XOHM). From 1996 to 2005, he served as Chief Technology Officer and Executive Vice President of Nextel Communications, Inc. Prior to joining Nextel, Mr. West served in a number of senior positions with British Telecom for more than 35 years, most recently as director of value-added services and corporate marketing at Cellnet, a cellular communications subsidiary of British Telecom. Our board of directors believes that Mr. West’s qualifications to serve on the board include his qualification as an audit committee financial expert under SEC guidelines.extensive technology background and corporate management experience in the telecommunications industry.

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THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS

A VOTE “FOR” EACH NAMED NOMINEE.

INFORMATION REGARDING THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND COMMITTEES

AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

DIRECTORINDEPENDENCEOF THE BOARDOF DIRECTORS

As required under the NASDAQ listing standards, a majority of the members of a listed company’s Boardboard of Directorsdirectors must qualify as “independent,” as affirmatively determined by the Boardits board of Directors.directors. Consistent with these considerations, after review of all relevant identified transactions or relationships between each of our directors and the new director nominee, or any of histheir respective family members, and us, our senior management and our independent registered public accounting firm, the Board has affirmatively determined that the following nineeight currently serving directors are independent directors within the meaning of the applicable NASDAQ listing standards: Messrs. Barros, Bok, Canfield, Dawkins, Jones, Krongard, Niehaus, Olson, Pfeiffer and Rush. The Board also has determined that Mr. West, the new director nominee, is independent under the applicable NASDAQ listing standards. In making this determination, the Board found that none of these directors or the new director nominee had a material or other disqualifying relationship with us. Mr.Messrs. Desch, isFitzpatrick and Smith are not an independent directordirectors by virtue of his positiontheir positions as executive officers of our Chief Executive Officer.company.

9.


BOARD LEADERSHIP STRUCTURE

Our Board of Directors has an independent Chairman, Mr. Niehaus, who has authority, among other things, to call and preside over Board meetings, including meetings of the independent directors, to set meeting agendas and to determine materials to be distributed to the Board. Accordingly, the Chairman has substantial ability to shape the work of the Board. We believe that separation of the positions of Chairman and Chief Executive Officerchief executive officer reinforces the independence of the Board in its oversight of our business and affairs. In addition, we believe that having an independent Chairman creates an environment that is more conducive to objective evaluation and oversight of management’s performance, increasing management accountability and improving the ability of the Board to monitor whether management’s actions are in the best interests of us and our stockholders. As a result, we believe that having an independent Chairman can enhance the effectiveness of the Board as a whole.

ROLEOF THETHE BOARDIN RISK OVERSIGHT

One of the Board’s key functions is informed oversight of our risk management process. The Board does not have a standing risk management committee, but rather administers this oversight function directly through the Board as a whole, as well as through various Board standing committees that address risks inherent in their respective areas of oversight. In particular, while our Board is responsible for monitoring and assessing strategic risk exposure, our Audit Committee has the responsibility to consider and discuss our major financial risk exposures and the steps our management has taken to monitor and control these exposures, including guidelines and policies to govern the process by which risk assessment and management is undertaken. Our Audit Committee also monitors compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. Our Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee monitors the effectiveness of our corporate governance guidelines, including whether they are successful in preventing illegal or improper liability-creating conduct. Our Compensation Committee assesses and monitors whether any of our compensation policies and programs has the potential to encourage excessive risk-taking. It is the responsibility of the committee chairs to report findings regarding material risk exposures to the Board. The Chairman has the responsibility of coordinating between the Board and management with regard to the determination and implementation of responses to any problematic risk management issues.

MEETINGSOF THETHE BOARDOF DIRECTORS

The Board of Directors met five times during 2010.2013. Each Board member attended 75% or more of the aggregate number of meetings of the Board and of the committees on which he served that were held during the year.portion of the year for which he was a director or committee member.

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INFORMATION REGARDING COMMITTEESOFTHE BOARDOF DIRECTORS

Our Board has three committees:committees that include an Audit Committee, a Compensation Committee and a Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. The following table provides membership and meeting information for 20102013 for each of thethese Board committees:

 

Name

  Audit Compensation Nominating and Corporate
Governance
   

Audit

  

Compensation

  

Nominating and Corporate
Governance

Robert H. Niehaus

    X       X  

J. Darrel Barros

   X    

Scott L. Bok

     X

Thomas C. Canfield

   X    

Terry L. Jones

    X    X  

J. Darrel Barros**

  X    

Scott L. Bok***

      X

Thomas C. Canfield****

  X    X

Alvin B. Krongard

    X    X      X  X*

Admiral Eric T. Olson (Ret.)

      X

Steven B. Pfeiffer

    X     X*  

Parker W. Rush

   X    X*    

Total meetings in 2010

   7    5    1  

Total meetings in 2013

  6  5  2

 

*

Committee Chairman

10.


**

Effective at the annual meeting Mr. Barros will no longer serve on our Board. The Board has approved the appointment of General Dawkins to the Audit Committee to fill the vacancy that will be created by the departure of Mr. Barros, effective as of the conclusion of the annual meeting.

***

Mr. Bok’s term as a director expired on May 9, 2013.

****

Mr. Canfield was appointed to the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee on May 9, 2013.

Below is a description of each committee of our Board of Directors. The Board of Directors has determined that each member of each committee is independent within the meaning of the NASDAQ listing standards and that each member is free of any relationship that would impair his individual exercise of independent judgment with regard to us.

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee of our Board of Directors was established by the Board to oversee our corporate accounting and financial reporting processes and audits of itsour financial statements. For this purpose, the Audit Committee performs several functions. The Audit Committee evaluates the performance of, and assesses the qualifications of, the independent registered public accounting firm; determines and approves the engagement of the independent registered public accounting firm; determines whether to retain or terminate the existing independent registered public accounting firm or to appoint and engage a new independent registered public accounting firm; reviews and approves the retention of the independent registered public accounting firm to perform any proposed permissible non-audit services; monitors the rotation of partners of the independent registered public accounting firm on our audit engagement team as required by law; reviews and approves or rejects transactions between us and any related persons; confers with management and the independent registered public accounting firm regarding the effectiveness of internal controls over financial reporting; establishes procedures, as required under applicable law, for the receipt, retention and treatment of complaints received by us regarding accounting, internal accounting controls or auditing matters and the confidential and anonymous submission by employees of concerns regarding questionable accounting or auditing matters; and meets to review our annual audited financial statements and quarterly financial statements with management and the independent registered public accounting firm. firm, including a review of our disclosures under “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”

The Audit Committee is currently composed of Messrs. Rush (Chairman), Barros and Canfield. As described above, following the annual meeting, General Dawkins will replace Mr. Barros on the Audit Committee. In 2010,2013, the Audit Committee met sevensix times. The Audit Committee has adopted a written charter that is available to stockholders on our website at http://investor.iridium.com/governance.cfm.

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At least annually, the Board of Directors reviews the NASDAQ listing standards definition of independence for Audit Committee members and has determined that all members of our Audit Committee are independent. The Board of Directors has also determined that Mr. Rush qualifies as an “audit committee financial expert,” as defined in applicable SEC rules.

Report of the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors

The Audit Committee has reviewed and discussed the audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 20102013 with management of Iridium Communications Inc. The Audit Committee has discussed with the independent registered public accounting firm the matters required to be discussed by Statement on Auditing Standards No. 61, as amended (AICPA,16,Professional StandardsCommunications with Audit Committees, Vol. 1. AU section 380), as adopted by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, or PCAOB, in Rule 3200T.PCAOB. The Audit Committee has also received the written disclosures and the letter from the independent registered public accounting firm required by applicable requirements of the PCAOB regarding the independent accountants’ communications with the audit committee concerning independence, and has discussed with the independent registered public accounting firm the accounting firm’s independence. Based on the foregoing, the Audit Committee recommended to the Board of Directors that the audited financial statements be included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010.2013.

Respectfully submitted,

AUDIT COMMITTEE

Parker W. Rush, Chairman

J. Darrel Barros

Thomas C. Canfield

11.


The material in this report of the audit committee is not “soliciting material,” is furnished to, but not deemed “filed” with, the SEC and is not deemed to be incorporated by reference in any filing of the Company under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Act, or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act, whether made before or after the date hereof and irrespective of any general incorporation language in any such filing.

16


Compensation Committee

Our Compensation Committee is composed of Messrs. Pfeiffer (Chairman), Jones, Krongard and Niehaus. All members of our Compensation Committee are independent within the meaning of the NASDAQ listing standards. In 2010,2013, the Compensation Committee met five times. The Compensation Committee has adopted a written charter that is available to stockholders on our website at http://investor.iridium.com/governance.cfm.

The Compensation Committee acts on behalf of the Board to oversee our compensation policies, plans and programs, including with respect to salary, long-term incentives, bonuses, perquisites, equity incentives, severance arrangements, retirement benefits and other employee benefits, and to review and determine the compensation to be paid to our executive officers and directors. The Compensation Committee has also made a non-exclusive delegation of certain authorities to a subcommittee tasked with approving both cash and equity compensation that may qualify as “performance-based compensation” under Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code, or the Code, which we refer to as the performance subcommittee.

Our Compensation Committee also reviews with management our Compensation Discussion and Analysis and considers whether to approve its inclusion in proxy statements and other filings.

Typically, the Compensation Committee meets quarterly and with greater frequency if necessary. The agenda for each meeting is usually developed by the Chairman of the Compensation Committee. The Compensation Committee meets regularly in executive session. However, from time to time, various members of management and other employees as well as outside advisors or consultants may be invited by the Compensation Committee to make presentations, to provide financial or other background information or advice or to otherwise participate in Compensation Committee meetings. The Chief Executive Officer may not participate in, or be present during, any deliberations or determinations of the Compensation Committee regarding his compensation or individual performance objectives. The charter of the Compensation Committee grants the Compensation Committee full access to all of our books, records, facilities and personnel, as well as authority to obtain, at our expense, advice and assistance from internal and external legal, accounting or other advisors and consultants and other external resources that the Compensation Committee considers necessary or appropriate in the performance of its duties. In particular, the Compensation Committee has the sole authority to retain compensation consultants to assist in its evaluation of executive and director compensation, including the authority to approve the consultant’s reasonable fees and other retention terms. Under its charter, the Compensation Committee may select, or receive advice from, a compensation consultant, legal counsel or other adviser to the compensation committee, other than in-house legal counsel and certain other types of advisers, only after taking into consideration six factors, prescribed by the SEC and NASDAQ, that bear upon the adviser’s independence; however, there is no requirement that any adviser be independent.

During 2010,2013, after taking into consideration the six factors prescribed by the SEC and NASDAQ described above, our Compensation Committee engaged a compensation consultant, Frederic W. Cook & Co., Inc., to perform the services described in “Executive Compensation—Compensation Discussion and Analysis—Use of Compensation Consultant.”

The specific determinations of our Compensation Committee with respect to executive compensation for the year ended December 31, 2013 are described in greater detail in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis section of this Proxy Statement.

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation

During 2010,2013, the members of our Compensation Committee were Messrs. Pfeiffer, Jones, Krongard and Niehaus, none of whom is a current or former employee of our company. None of the members of our Compensation Committee had a direct or indirect material interest in any related-party transaction involving our company.

17


No interlocking relationships exist between our Board of Directors or our Compensation Committee and the board of directors or the compensation committee of any other entity. None of our executive officers serves, or in the past year has served, as a member of the board of directors or compensation committee of any entity that has one or more executive officers serving on our Board of Directors or our Compensation Committee.

12.


Compensation Committee Report

The Compensation Committee has reviewed and discussed with management the Compensation Discussion and Analysis contained in this proxy statement. Based on this review and discussion, the Compensation Committee approvedhas recommended to the inclusion ofBoard that the Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in this proxy statement.

Respectfully submitted,

COMPENSATION COMMITTEE

Steven B. Pfeiffer, Chairman

Terry L. Jones

Alvin B. Krongard

Robert H. Niehaus

The material in this report of the compensation committee is not “soliciting material,” is furnished to, but not deemed “filed” with, the SEC and is not deemed to be incorporated by reference in any filing of the Company under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act, whether made before or after the date hereof and irrespective of any general incorporation language in any such filing.

Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee

The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee of the Board of Directors is responsible for identifying, reviewing and evaluating candidates to serve as our directors, consistent with criteria approved by the Board, reviewing and evaluating incumbent directors, recommending to the Board for selection candidates for election to the Board of Directors, making recommendations to the Board regarding the membership of the committees of the Board, assessing the performance of the Board, and developing a set of corporate governance principles for us. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee is composed of Messrs. BokKrongard (Chairman), JonesCanfield and Krongard.Olson. All members of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee are independent within the meaning of the NASDAQ listing standards.

During 2010,2013, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee met once.two times. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee has adopted a written charter that is available to stockholders on our website atat: http://investor.iridium.com/governance.cfm.

The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee believes that candidates for director should have minimum qualifications, including having the ability to read and understand basic financial statements, being over 21 years of age and having the highest personal integrity and ethics. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee also intends to consider other factors, such as possessing relevant expertise upon which to be able to offer advice and guidance to management, having sufficient time to devote to our affairs, demonstrated excellence in his or her field, having the ability to exercise sound business judgment and having the commitment to rigorously represent the long-term interests of our stockholders. However, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee can modify these qualifications from time to time. Candidates for director nominees are reviewed in the context of the current composition of the Board, our operating requirements and the long-term interests of stockholders. In conducting this assessment, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee typically considers diversity, age, skills and such other factors as it deems appropriate given our current needs and those of the Board to maintain a balance of knowledge, experience and capability. In the case of incumbent directors whose terms of office are set to expire, the Nominating and Corporate Governance

18


Committee reviews these directors’ overall service to us during their terms, including the number of meetings attended, level of participation, quality of performance and any other relationships and transactions that might impair the directors’ independence. In the case of new director candidates, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee also determines whether the nominee is independent for NASDAQ purposes, which determination is based upon applicable NASDAQ listing standards, applicable SEC rules and regulations and the advice of counsel, if necessary. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee then uses its network of contacts, as well as those of senior management, to compile a list of potential candidates, but may also engage, if it deems appropriate, a professional search firm. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee conducts any appropriate and necessary

13.


inquiries into the backgrounds and qualifications of possible candidates after considering the function and needs of the Board. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee meets to discuss and consider the candidates’ qualifications and then recommends candidates to the Board for selection.

The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee will consider director candidates recommended by stockholders. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee does not intend to alter the manner in which it evaluates candidates, including the minimum criteria set forth above, based on whether or not the candidate was recommended by a stockholder. Stockholders who wish to recommend individuals for consideration by the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee to become nominees for election to the Board may do so by delivering a written recommendation to the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee at the following address: c/o Iridium Communications Inc., 1750 Tysons Blvd., Suite 1400, McLean, VA 22102, Attn: Secretary, not less than 90 days but not more than 120 days prior to the anniversary date of the last annual meeting of stockholders. Submissions must include the name and address of the stockholder making the recommendation, the number of shares of our common stock beneficially owned by such stockholder as of the date of the submission, the full name of the proposed nominee, a description of the proposed nominee’s business experience for at least the previous five years, complete biographical information for the nominee and a description of the proposed nominee’s qualifications as a director. Any such submission must be accompanied by the written consent of the proposed nominee to be named as a nominee and to serve as a director if elected.

Stockholder Communications with the Board of Directors

Our Board has adopted a formal process by which stockholders may communicate with the Board or any of its directors. Stockholders who wish to communicate with the Board or an individual director may send a written communication to the Board or such director addressed to our Secretary at 1750 Tysons Blvd., Suite 1400, McLean, VA 22102. Each communication must set forth:

 

the name and address of the stockholder on whose behalf the communication is sent; and

 

the number of our shares that are owned beneficially by such stockholder as of the date of the communication.

Each communication will be reviewed by our Secretary to determine whether it is appropriate for presentation to the Board or such director. Examples of inappropriate communications include advertisements, solicitations or hostile communications. Communications determined by our Secretary to be appropriate for presentation to the Board or such director will be submitted to the Board or such director on a periodic basis.

Code of Ethics

We have adopted the Iridium Communications Inc. Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, or the Code of Ethics, that applies to all of our officers, directors and employees as well as those of our subsidiaries. The Code of Ethics is available on our website at http://investor.iridium.com/governance.cfm. If we make any substantive amendments to the Code of Ethics, or grant any waiver from a provision of the Code of Ethics to any executive officer or director, we will promptly disclose the nature of the amendment or waiver on our website.

Corporate Governance Guidelines

The Board of Directors has documented our governance practices by adopting Corporate Governance Guidelines, or the Guidelines, to assure that the Board will have the necessary authority and practices in place to review and

19


evaluate our business operations as needed and to make decisions that are independent of our management. The Guidelines are also intended to align the interests of directors and management with those of our stockholders. The Guidelines set forth, among other things, the practices the Board intends to follow with respect to Board composition and selection, Board meetings and involvement of senior management, Chief Executive Officer performance evaluation and succession planning, and Board committees and compensation. The Guidelines mayprovide that any nominee who receives a greater number of votes “withheld” than votes “for” must submit an offer of resignation to our Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. The committee will consider the facts and circumstances and recommend to the Board of Directors the action to be viewedtaken with respect to such offer of resignation, and the Board of Directors will then act on the committee’s recommendation. The Guidelines are available on our website at http://investor.iridium.com/governance.cfm.

14.


PROPOSAL 2

ADVISORY VOTEON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Under the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, or the Dodd-Frank Act, and Section 14AAt our 2011 annual meeting of the Exchange Act,stockholders, our stockholders indicated their preference that we solicit a non-binding advisory vote on the compensation of our named executive officers, commonly referred to as a “say-on-pay vote,” every year. The Board has adopted a policy that is consistent with that preference. In accordance with that policy, this year, we are now entitled to voteagain asking our stockholders to approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation of our named executive officers as disclosed in this proxy statementProxy Statement in accordance with SEC rules.

This vote is not intended to address any specific item of compensation, but rather the overall compensation of our named executive officers and the compensation philosophy, policies and practices described in this proxy statement.Proxy Statement.

The compensation of our named executive officers subject to the vote is disclosed in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis, the compensation tables and the related narrative disclosure contained later in this proxy statement.Proxy Statement. As discussed in those disclosures, we believe that our compensation policies and decisions are focused on pay-for-performance principles and strongly aligned with our stockholders’ interests. Compensation of our named executive officers is designed to enable us to attract, motivate and retain talented and experienced executives to lead our company successfully in a competitive environment.

Accordingly, the Board is asking the stockholders to indicate their support for the compensation of our named executive officers as described in this proxy statementProxy Statement by casting a non-binding advisory vote “FOR” the following resolution:

“RESOLVED, that the compensation paid to the Company’s named executive officers, as disclosed pursuant to compensation disclosure rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Compensation Discussion and Analysis, compensation tables and any related information disclosed in this proxy statement, is hereby APPROVED.”

Because the vote is advisory, it is not binding on us or the Board of Directors. Nevertheless, the views expressed by the stockholders, whether through this vote or otherwise, are important to management and the Board and, accordingly, the Board and the Compensation Committee intend to consider the results of this vote in making determinations in the future regarding executive compensation arrangements.

Advisory approval of this proposal requires the vote of the holders of a majority of the shares represented and entitled to vote at the annual meeting either in person or by proxy. Abstentions will be counted toward the tabulation of votes cast on proposals presented to the stockholders and will have the same effect as negative votes. Broker non-votes are counted towards a quorum, but are not counted for any purpose in determining whether this matter has been approved.

Unless the Board decides to modify its policy regarding the frequency of soliciting advisory votes on the compensation of our named executive officers, the next scheduled say-on-pay vote will be at the 2015 annual meeting of stockholders.

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS

A VOTE “FOR” PROPOSAL 2.

 

15.20


PROPOSAL 3

ADVISORY VOTEONTHE FREQUENCYOF SOLICITATIONOF

ADVISORY STOCKHOLDER APPROVALOF EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The Dodd-Frank Act and Section 14A of the Exchange Act also enable our stockholders to indicate their preference regarding how frequently we should solicit a non-binding advisory vote, similar to Proposal 2, on the compensation of our named executive officers as disclosed in our proxy statements. Accordingly, we are asking stockholders to indicate whether they would prefer an advisory vote every year, every two years or every three years. Alternatively, stockholders may abstain from casting a vote.

The frequency that receives the highest number of votes from the holders of shares represented and entitled to vote at the annual meeting either in person or by proxy will be considered the frequency preferred by the stockholders. Abstentions and broker-non votes will have no effect.

After considering the benefits and consequences of each alternative, the Board has decided not to make a recommendation on this proposal. The Board and the Compensation Committee value the opinions of the stockholders in this matter and, to the extent there is any significant vote in favor of one frequency over the other options, even if less than a majority, the Board will consider the stockholders’ opinions and evaluate any appropriate next steps. However, because this vote is advisory and therefore not binding on us or the Board, the Board may decide that it is in the best interests of the stockholders that we hold an advisory vote on executive compensation more or less frequently than the option preferred by the stockholders. The vote will not be construed to create or imply any change or addition to the fiduciary duties of us or the Board.

PROPOSAL 4

RATIFICATIONOF SELECTIONOF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

The Board of Directors has selected Ernst & Young LLP or E&Y, to continue in its capacity as our independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 20112014 and has further directed that management submit the selection of independent registered public accounting firm for ratification by the stockholders at the annual meeting. Ernst & Young LLP has audited our financial statements since our fiscal year ended December 31, 2008.

Neither our Bylaws nor other governing documents or law require stockholder ratification of the selection of E&YErnst & Young LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm. However, the Board of Directors is submitting the selection of E&YErnst & Young LLP to the stockholders for ratification as a matter of good corporate practice. If the stockholders fail to ratify the selection, the Audit Committee will reconsider whether or not to continue to retain that firm. Even if the selection is ratified, the Audit Committee in its discretion may direct the appointment of different independent auditors at any time during the year if they determine that such a change would be in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders.

The affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the shares present in person or represented by proxy and entitled to vote at the annual meeting will be required to ratify the selection of E&Y.Ernst & Young LLP. Abstentions will be counted toward the tabulation of votes cast on proposals presented to the stockholders and will have the same effect as negative votes. Broker non-votes are counted towards a quorum, but are not counted for any purpose in determining whether this matter has been approved.

Representatives of E&YErnst & Young LLP are expected to be present at the annual meeting. They will have an opportunity to make a statement if they so desire and will be available to respond to appropriate questions.

16.


INDEPENDENT REGISTEREDPRINCIPALUBLIC ACCOUNTANTCCOUNTING FIRM FEESAND SERVICES

The following table represents aggregate fees billed to us for the fiscal years ended December 31, 20102013 and December 31, 20092012 by E&Y, our principal accountant.Ernst & Young LLP.

 

  Year Ended December 31,   Year Ended December 31, 
  2010   2009   2013   2012 

Audit fees(1)

  $1,220,165    $911,000    $956,984        $    1,026,457     

Audit-related fees

   —       —       —           —       

Tax fees(2)

   413,759     247,580     63,949         78,287     

All other fees

   —       —       —           —       
          

 

   

 

 

Total fees(3)

  $1,633,924    $1,158,580    $    1,020,933        $1,104,744     

 

(1)

Fees for audit services included fees associated with the annual audit, the reviews of our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, statutory audits required internationally, and fees related to registration statements.

(2)

Tax fees included fees for tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning.

(3)

Prior to the Acquisition in September 2009, E&Y served as Iridium Holdings’ principal accountant. The above table only includes those fees billed by E&Y to Iridium Communications Inc. and does not include fees billed to Iridium Holdings in 2009 prior to the Acquisition.

All fees described above were approvedpre-approved by the Audit Committee.

PRE-APPROVAL POLICYAND PROCEDURES

The Audit Committee has adopted a policy and procedures for the pre-approval of audit and non-audit services rendered by our independent registered public accounting firm. The policy generally pre-approvesrequires pre-approval of specified services in the defined categories of audit services, audit-related services and tax services up to specified amounts. Pre-approval may also be given as part of the Audit Committee’s approval of the scope of the

21


engagement of the independent registered public accounting firm or on an individual, explicit, case-by-case basis before the independent registered public accounting firm is engaged to provide each service. The pre-approval of services may be delegated to one or more of the Audit Committee’s members, but the decision must be reported to the full Audit Committee at its next scheduled meeting.

The Audit Committee has determined that the rendering of the services other than audit services by E&YErnst & Young LLP is compatible with maintaining the principal accountant’stheir independence.

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS

A VOTE “FOR” PROPOSAL 4.3.

 

17.22


MANAGEMENT

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS WHO ARE NOT DIRECTORS

ThomasBryan J. FitzpatrickHartin,age 50, Age 53.has served as our Executive Vice President, Sales and Marketing since December 2012. From June 2009 to December 2012, Mr. FitzpatrickHartin served as Senior Vice President of Sales, Distribution and Business Development of LightSquared, a telecommunications company. From May 2008 to June 2009, Mr. Hartin worked as an independent consultant to companies in the wireless telecommunications industry. From 2003 to May 2008, Mr. Hartin was Vice President—Indirect Distribution of Sprint Nextel Corporation. Mr. Hartin received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from LeMoyne College and a Master of Business Administration degree from The American University.

Thomas D. Hickey,age 54, has served as our Chief FinancialLegal Officer and Secretary since May 2011. He previously served as General Counsel of Primus Telecommunications Group, Incorporated, a global provider of advanced facilities-based communications solutions, from July 2010 to March 2011. From April 2010. Previously, from 20022006 to December 2009,June 2010, Mr. Fitzpatrick was ExecutiveHickey served as Vice President and Chief Financial OfficerGeneral Counsel of CentennialCyren Call Communications Corp.,Corporation, a publicly traded telecommunications company acquired by AT&T in November 2009.provider of wireless communications solutions for first responders. Prior to that, he spent 17 years with Nextel Communications, Inc. and Sprint Nextel Corporation, most recently in the role of Vice President, Law and Deputy General Counsel. Mr. Fitzpatrick was Chief Financial Officer of private and publicly traded companiesHickey began his legal career in the telecommunications practice of the Jones Day law firm. His prior experience also includes work in the White House, the Federal Communications Commission and technology industriesCongress. Mr. Hickey received his J.D. degree from the Washington University School of Law and a bachelor’s degree in public policy studies from Duke University.

Richard P. Nyren,age 43, has served as our Vice President at Bell Atlanticand Corporate Controller since August 2011. From January 2009 to August 2011, Mr. Nyren served as Assistant Controller and then Vice President and Controller of XO Holdings, Inc., a telecommunications service provider. From 2006 to January 2009, Mr. Nyren served as Controller of Fairchild Corporation, (now Verizon).an international diversified holding company. Mr. Fitzpatrick graduated with aNyren received his Bachelor of Business Administration degreeScience in Accounting from Pennsylvania StateGeorge Mason University and a Master of Business Administration degree from Villanova University. Mr. Fitzpatrickthe University of Maryland-College Park and is a director of The Telx Group, Inc. Mr. Fitzpatrick is also a Certified Public Accountant.

Lt. Gen. John H. Campbell (Ret.)Scott T. Scheimreif,, Age 63age 45. Lieutenant General Campbell, U.S. Air Force (Retired), has served as our Executive Vice President, Government Programs of Iridium Satellite since November 2006. Prior to that, from 2004 to November 2006, heDecember 2012 and previously served as Principal, Defenseacting Executive Vice President, Government Programs from June 2012 to December 2012 and Intelligence, for Applied Research Associates, or ARA. General Campbell joined ARA after retiring from the United States Air Force after a 32-year career. In the United States Air Force, he served in a variety of operational and staff assignments around the world. From 1998 to 2000, he was Vice Director of the Defense Information Systems Agency and was the first commander of the Joint Task Force—Computer Defense Network. From 1997 to 1998, he served on the Joint Staff as Deputy Director for Operations. Between 1971 and 1997, General Campbell served around the world in a variety of operational assignments as an F-15 and F-16 fighter pilot and commander. General Campbell is the recipient of numerous military and intelligence community awards, including the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, the Air Medal, the National Imagery and Mapping Agency Award, the National Reconnaissance Distinguished Medal, and the National Security Agency Award. He is a graduate of the University of Kentucky with a Bachelor of Computer Science degree and a Master of Business Administration degree.

Cynthia C. Cann, Age 43. Ms. Cann has served as Vice President, and Controller of Iridium Satellite since January 2009. Prior to that, Ms. Cann served in BearingPoint, Inc.’s State and Local Business Unit as ControllerGovernment Programs from May 2005 to December 2007, and as Head of Operations from JanuaryApril 2008 to January 2009. Ms. Cann graduated with a Bachelor of ScienceJune 2012. Mr. Scheimreif received his Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and received a six-month certification from the Georgetown University International Master of Business Administration Program. Ms. Cann is also a Certified Public Accountant.

Gregory C. Ewert, Age 49. Mr. Ewert has served as Executive Vice President, Global Distribution Channels of Iridium Satellite since 2004. Prior to joining Iridium Satellite, he served as Executive Vice President for Marketing, Sales, Product Development, Business Development and Customer Service for COMSAT International from 2002 to 2004. Prior to COMSAT, from 1998 to 2002 he held executive positions within Teleglobe Inc., ranging from Vice President and General Manager of Carrier and Emerging Markets to Senior Vice President of Global Data Services. In 2002, Teleglobe filed for bankruptcy. Before Teleglobe, Mr. Ewert worked for Sprint Corporation from 1987 to 1997, where he held various positions including President of Sprint International of Canada. Mr. Ewert holds a Bachelor of Finance degree from Canisius College in Buffalo, New York.Salisbury University.

John M. Roddy, Age 56. Mr. Roddy has served as Executive Vice President, Global Operations and Product Development of Iridium Satellite since 2006. Prior to joining Iridium Satellite, he held numerous executive positions at Telcordia from 2003 to 2006, including President, Telcordia Global Services; Senior Vice President, Global Operations; and Chief Information Officer. Prior to joining Telcordia, at Nortel he was Vice President and General Manager of the Carrier Professional Services Business Unit from 1999 to 2001. Prior to that, he was Vice President, Technology and Director, Ottawa Laboratories for Public Carrier Networks from 1997 to 1998. He also held the position of Vice President, Canadian Technical Services and Global Product Support from 1993 to 1996. He holds a Master of Business Administration degree from McMaster University in Hamilton, Canada.

S. Scott Smith, Age 52. Mr. Smith has served as Executive Vice President, Iridium NEXT since April 2010. Mr. Smith previously served as Chief Operating Officer of DigitalGlobe Inc. from January 2006 through March 2010. From 1995 to January 2006, he held various positions at Space Imaging Inc., most recently as Executive

18.


Vice President, Sales, Engineering and Operations. Prior to this, Mr. Smith held various engineering and management positions for Lockheed Missiles & Space Company. Mr. Smith is currently a member of the Board of Directors of SkyBox Imaging, Inc., located in Mountain View, California. Mr. Smith holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering from Syracuse University and a Master of Science degree in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering from Stanford University.

Donald L. Thoma,age 52, Age 49.has served as Chief Executive Officer of our Aireon subsidiary since January 2012. Mr. Thoma haspreviously served in a number of roles with our Iridium Satellite subsidiary, including as Executive Vice President, Marketing of Iridium Satellite since May 2008. Priorfrom 2008 to that time, Mr. Thoma served as2012, Executive Vice President, Corporate Development from November 2006 to May 2008, as Executive Vice President, Vertical Markets from November 2004 to November 2006 and prior to that as Executive Vice President, Data Services.Services from 2002 to 2004. From 2001 to 2002, Mr. Thoma served as Vice President of Marketing and Business Development for ObjectVideo, Inc. From 1992 to 2000, he held various positionsa number of responsibility formanagement roles at ORBCOMM Inc., ranging fromincluding Senior Director of Transportation, to Founder and General Manager of theits Vantage Tracking Solutions business unit, and Vice President, Business Development. Prior to ORBCOMM, from 1988 to 1990, he wasPreviously, Mr. Thoma served as the Director of Integration and Launch Operations for Orbital Sciences Corporation. Previously, heHe also served as a Captain in the United States Air Force Space Division from 1983 to 1988. Mr. Thoma holds a Bachelor of Aeronautical Engineering degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, a Master of Aerospace Engineering degree from the University of Southern California and a Master of Business Administration degree from the Harvard Business School.

 

19.23


SECURITY OWNERSHIPOF

CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERSAND MANAGEMENT

The following table sets forth certain information regarding the ownership of our common stock as of February 28, 2011April 1, 2014 by (i) each director and director nominee, (ii) each of the executive officers named in the Summary Compensation Table, (iii) all of our executive officers and current directors as a group and (iv) all those known by us to be beneficial owners of more than five percent of our common stock.

 

   Beneficial Ownership(1) 

Beneficial Owner

  Number of
Shares
   Percentage (%) 

5% Holders

    

Greenhill & Co., Inc.(2)

   12,924,016     17.4  

Baralonco Limited(3)

   11,648,080     16.6  

Aletheia Research & Management, Inc.(4)

   4,869,882     6.9  

Integrated Core Strategies (US) LLC(5)

   5,113,603     6.8  

Putnam, LLC(6)

   4,340,794     6.2  

Wells Fargo and Company(7)

   4,241,992     6.0  

Syndicated Communications Venture Partners IV, L.P.(8)

   4,030,855     5.7  

Executive Officers and Directors

    

Matthew J. Desch(9)

   368,493     *  

Thomas J. Fitzpatrick

   10,000     *  

Eric H. Morrison(10)

   127,927     *  

John S. Brunette

   —       *  

Gregory C. Ewert(10)

   319,979     *  

John M. Roddy(11)

   42,188     *  

Robert H. Niehaus(12)

   616,494     *  

Scott L. Bok(13)

   1,471,789     2.1  

Thomas C. Canfield(14)

   84,237     *  

Brigadier Gen. Peter M. Dawkins (Ret.)(15)

   14,416     *  

Terry L. Jones(16)

   4,745,598     6.8  

Alvin B. Krongard(17)

   160,854     *  

Steven B. Pfeiffer(18)

   17,855     *  

J. Darrel Barros(19)

   14,258     *  

Parker W. Rush(20)

   102,958     *  

All directors and executive officers as a group (17 persons)(21)

   8,247,278     11.6  
   Beneficial Ownership(1) 

Beneficial Owner

      Number of    
Shares
       Percentage (%)     

5% Holders

    

Baralonco Limited(2)

   12,930,110     16.7  

Van Berkom & Associates Inc.(3)

   4,020,067     5.2  

The Vanguard Group(4)

   4,058,620     5.3  

Executive Officers, Directors and Director Nominees

    

Matthew J. Desch(5)

   1,000,454     1.3  

Thomas J. Fitzpatrick(6)

   439,979     *  

S. Scott Smith(7)

   254,622     *  

Bryan J. Hartin(8)

   42,187     *  

Thomas D. Hickey(9)

   135,268     *  

Robert H. Niehaus(10)

   565,042     *  

Thomas C. Canfield(11)

   137,149     *  

Brigadier Gen. Peter M. Dawkins (Ret.)(12)

   52,209     *  

Alvin B. Krongard(13)

   202,092     *  

Admiral Eric T. Olson (Ret.)(14)

   32,246     *  

Steven B. Pfeiffer(15)

   55,234     *  

J. Darrel Barros(16)

   51,637     *  

Parker W. Rush(17)

   111,052     *  

Barry J. West

   —       —    

All current directors and executive officers as a group (17 persons)(18)

   3,654,530     4.6  

 

*

Less than 1% of the outstanding shares of common stock.

 

(1)

This table is based upon information supplied by officers, directors and principal stockholders. Unless otherwise indicated in the footnotes to this table and subject to community property laws where applicable, we believe that each of the stockholders named in this table has sole voting and investment power with respect to the shares indicated as beneficially owned. Applicable percentages are based on 70,253,60176,838,663 shares outstanding on February 28, 2011.April 1, 2014. Shares of common stock issuable under options or warrants that are exercisable as of April 1, 2014 or within 60 days of February 28, 2011,April 1, 2014, and shares underlying restricted stock units, or RSUs, that are vested as of April 1, 2014 or will vest within 60 days of February 28, 2011,April 1, 2014, are deemed beneficially owned, and such shares are used in computing the percentage ownership of the person holding the options, warrants or RSUs, but are not deemed outstanding for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of any other person.

(2)

This information has been obtained from a Schedule 13G/A filed on February 9, 2011 by Greenhill & Co., Inc., or Greenhill. According to the Schedule 13G/A, Greenhill has sole voting and dispositive power with respect to 12,924,016 shares of our common stock, which include 4,000,000 shares underlying immediately exercisable warrants. Mr. Bok, one of our directors, is the chief executive officer of Greenhill. Mr. Niehaus, a director of our company, is Chairman of Greenhill Capital Partners. The principal business address of Greenhill is: 300 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10022.

20.


(3)

This information has been obtained from a Schedule 13DForm 4s filed on October 8, 20095, 2012 and November 26, 2012 by Baralonco Limited and its sole owner, Khalid bin Abdullah bin Abdulrahman. According to the Schedule 13D, Khalid bin Abdullah bin Abdulrahman and includes 530,110 shares voting and dispositive power with respect to theissuable upon conversion of 50,000 shares held by Baralonco Limited.of our 7% Series A Cumulative Perpetual Convertible Preferred Stock. The principal business address of Baralonco Limited is: Craigmuir Chambers, P.O. Box 71, Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands VG1110.

(4)

This information has been provided to the Company by Aletheia Research and Management, Inc., or Aletheia. The principal business address of Aletheia is 100 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 1960, Santa Monica, CA 90401.

(5)

This information has been obtained from a Schedule 13G/A filed on January 31, 2011 by Integrated Core Strategies (US) LLC, or ICS. According to the Schedule 13G/A, Millennium Management LLC, or Millennium, as the general partner of the managing member of ICS, and Mr. Israel A. Englander, as the managing member of Millennium, share voting and dispositive power with respect to the 5,113,603 shares underlying immediately exercisable warrants. The principal business address of ICS is: 666 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10103.

(6)(3)

This information has been obtained from a Schedule 13G filed on February 14, 20115, 2014 by Putnam, LLC, or Putnam. According to the Schedule 13G, Putnam has shared voting power with respect to 125,601 shares of our common stock and shared dispositive power with respect to 4,340,794 shares of our common stock.Van Berkom & Associates Inc. The principal business address of Putnam is: One Post Office Square, Boston, MA 02109.Van Berkom & Associates Inc. is 130 Sherbrooke Street West, Suite 1005, Montreal, A8 H3A 2M8.

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(7)(4)

This information has been obtained from a Schedule 13G filed on January 25, 2011February 11, 2014 by Wells Fargo and Company, or Wells Fargo. According to the Schedule 13G, Wells Fargo has sole voting power with respect to 3,817,631 shares of our common stock, sole dispositive power with respect to 4,208,005 shares of our common stock, and shared dispositive power with respect to 6,397 shares of our common stock.The Vanguard Company. The principal business address of Wells FargoThe Vanguard Group is 420 Montgomery Street, San Francisco, CA 94104.P.O. Box 2600, Valley Forge, Pennsylvania 19482.

(8)

This information has been obtained from a Schedule 13D/A filed on February 11, 2011 by Syndicated Communications Venture Partners IV, L.P., or the SynCom Fund. According to the Schedule 13D/A, WJM Partners IV, LLC, or WJM, as the SynCom Fund’s general partner, and Messrs. Terry L. Jones, Duane McKnight, Herbert Wilkins Sr. and Milford Anthony Thomas, as the managing members of WJM, share voting and dispositive power with respect to the shares held by the SynCom Fund. The principal business address of the SynCom Fund is: 8515 Georgia Avenue, Suite 725, Silver Spring, MD 20910.

(9)(5)

Includes 125,000 shares issuable upon the exercise of stock options exercisable within 60 days of February 28, 2011 and 27,000 shares underlying immediately exercisable warrants.

(10)

Includes 42,188730,316 shares issuable upon exercise of stock options exercisable within 60 days of February 28, 2011.April 1, 2014.

(11)(6)

Consists of 42,188Includes 415,722 shares issuable upon exercise of stock options exercisable within 60 days of February 28, 2011.April 1, 2014.

(12)(7)

Includes 200,000 shares underlying immediately exercisable warrants and 18,218 shares underlying vested RSUs.

(13)

Includes 6,130240,680 shares issuable upon exercise of stock options exercisable within 60 days of February 28, 2011, 400,000 shares underlying immediately exercisable warrants, and 19,160 shares underlying vested RSUs.April 1, 2014.

(14)

Includes 43,479 shares underlying immediately exercisable warrants and 22,179 shares underlying vested RSUs.

(15)(8)

Consists of 14,416 shares underlying vested RSUs.

(16)

Includes 4,030,855 shares held by the SynCom Fund and 14,258 shares underlying vested RSUs held directly by Mr. Jones. Mr. Jones is a managing member of WJM, the general partner of the SynCom Fund. Mr. Jones disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares held by the SynCom Fund except to the extent of his pecuniary interest in such shares.

(17)

Includes 35,66642,187 shares issuable upon exercise of stock options exercisable within 60 days of February 28, 2011.April 1, 2014.

(9)

Includes 131,564 shares issuable upon exercise of stock options exercisable within 60 days of April 1, 2014.

(10)

Includes 43,255 shares issuable upon exercise of stock options exercisable within 60 days of April 1, 2014 and 49,511 shares underlying RSUs that vest but are not released within 60 days of April 1, 2014. Shares underlying all vested RSUs will be released six months following the termination of Mr. Niehaus’ service.

(11)

Includes 80,323 shares underlying RSUs that vest but are not released within 60 days of April 1, 2014. Shares underlying all vested RSUs will be released six months following the termination of Mr. Canfield’s service.

(12)

Consists of 52,209 shares underlying RSUs that vest but are not released within 60 days of April 1, 2014. Shares underlying all vested RSUs will be released six months following the termination of General Dawkins’ service.

(13)

Includes 166,790 shares issuable upon exercise of stock options exercisable within 60 days of April 1, 2014 and 302 shares underlying RSUs that vest but are not released within 60 days of April 1, 2014. Shares underlying all vested RSUs will be released six months following the termination of Mr. Krongard’s service. Excludes 115,233 shares held by The Krongard Irrevocable Equity Trust dated June 30, 2009, a trust held for the benefit of Mr. Krongard’s children of which Mr. Krongard’s wife is the trustee. Mr. Krongard disclaims beneficial ownership of any shares held by The Krongard Irrevocable Equity Trust dated June 30, 2009.

 

21.


(18)(14)

Includes 8,861Consists of 32,246 shares issuable upon exercise of stock options exercisableunderlying RSUs that vest but are not released within 60 days of February 28, 2011 and 8,994 sharesApril 1, 2014. Shares underlying all vested RSUs.RSUs will be released six months following the termination of Admiral Olson’s service.

(19)(15)

Consists of 14,258 shares underlying vested RSUs.

(20)

Includes 43,479 shares underlying immediately exercisable warrants and 16,000 shares underlying vested RSUs.

(21)

Includes 402,2218,861 shares issuable upon the exercise of stock options exercisable within 60 days of February 28, 2011, an aggregate of 713,958April 1, 2014 and 46,373 shares underlying immediately exercisable warrants and 127,482RSUs that vest but are not released within 60 days of April 1, 2014. Shares underlying all vested RSUs will be released six months following the termination of Mr. Pfeiffer’s service.

(16)

Consists of 51,636 shares underlying RSUs that vest but are not released within 60 days of April 1, 2014. Shares underlying all vested RSUs.RSUs will be released six months following the termination of Mr. Barros’ service.

(17)

Includes 60,326 shares underlying RSUs that vest but are not released within 60 days of April 1, 2014. Shares underlying all vested RSUs will be released six months following the termination of Mr. Rush’s service.

(18)

Includes 2,207,979 shares issuable upon the exercise of stock options exercisable within 60 days of April 1, 2014 and 372,928 shares underlying RSUs that vest but are not released within 60 days of April 1, 2014. See footnotes 95 through 20.17.

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SECTION 16(A) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE

Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act requires our directors and executive officers, and persons who own more than ten percent 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 and other equity securities. Officers, directors and greater than ten percent stockholders are required by SEC regulation to furnish us with copies of all Section 16(a) forms they file.

To our knowledge, based solely on a review of the copies of such reports furnished to us and written representations that no other reports were required during 2010,2013, all Section 16(a) filing requirements applicable to our officers, directors and greater than ten percent beneficial owners were timely complied with.

22.


EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

COMPENSATION DISCUSSION ANDAND ANALYSIS

Background

This Compensation Discussion and Analysis explains our compensation philosophy, policies and practices for the following current and former executives, who are referred to in this Compensation Discussion and Analysis and in the subsequentfollowing tables as our named executive officers:

 

Matthew J. Desch, our chief executive officer;

Thomas J. Fitzpatrick, our chief financial officer;

Eric H. Morrison, our former chief financial officer and current senior vice president, Iridium NEXT financing and planning, Iridium Satellite;chief administrative officer;

John S. Brunette, our formerScott Smith, chief operating officer;

Thomas D. Hickey, chief legal and administrative officer;

Gregory C. Ewert,Bryan J. Hartin, executive vice president, of global distribution channels, Iridium Satellite;sales & marketing; and

John M. Roddy, former executive vice president, ofquality and global operations, and product development, Iridium Satellite.

Executive Summary

Our executive compensation program allows usis designed to recruit, motivate,attract, reward and retain high quality talenta talented, innovative and entrepreneurial team of executives. To do so, we believe that a majority of their target compensation should be based on performance, both of the individual and of the business. We structure our variable compensation programs to recognize both short-term and long-term contributions.

2013 Say-on-Pay Vote. We conducted our third advisory vote on executive compensation, or say-on-pay vote, at our annual meeting of stockholders in 2013. Approximately 90.9% of the votes cast on the say-on-pay proposal supported the proposal. Our Board and our Compensation Committee value the opinions of our stockholders, and we believe that it is instrumentalimportant for our stockholders to have an opportunity to vote on this proposal annually, which is consistent with the frequency preferred by our stockholders. Our Compensation Committee’s decisions regarding compensation for 2013 reflected our say-on-pay vote in helping us achieve strong financial performance2012, which was supported by approximately 91.5% of the votes cast on the proposal. In addition to our annual advisory vote on executive compensation, we are committed to ongoing engagement with our stockholders on executive compensation and corporate governance issues.

While our 2013 say-on-pay vote was advisory only, our Compensation Committee has considered the results of the vote in a challenging macroeconomic environment.the context of our overall compensation philosophy, policies and decisions. Our Compensation Committee believes that, similar to our 2012 say-on-pay vote, this 2013 stockholder vote strongly endorsed our compensation philosophy and the decisions we made for 2012. After discussing the levels of support in each of the three years in favor of the proposals, and considering the Compensation Committee’s activity in 2012 to adopt additional measures, including stock ownership guidelines and a new performance-based restricted stock unit program to further align management and stockholder interests, our Compensation Committee decided to generally maintain a consistent course for 2013 compensation decisions.

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Important Features of our Executive Compensation Program. The important features of our executive compensation program include:

Our executive compensation is not only effective at motivatingheavily weighted toward at-risk, performance-based compensation in the form of an incentive cash bonus opportunity that is based on achievement of revenue, operational EBITDA, and sales and other strategic and financial goals selected annually by our Compensation Committee, and an equity compensation opportunity in the form of stock options, performance-based restricted stock units and time-based restricted stock units that provide incentives for our executives to achieve our corporatemeet certain performance goals but also reasonable in light of compensation paid at our peer group companies, and responsible in that it encourages our named executive officers to work for meaningful stockholder returns, without taking unnecessary or excessive risks.

The highlights of our 2010 executive compensation program include:

The Compensation Committee decided that 100% of our named executive officers’ variable cash incentive compensation for 2010 should be dependent uponincrease the achievement of specific pre-established performance goals.

Our variable cash incentive program paid out at 120% of the target amount of awards, reflecting our achievement of (i) $351.5 million in revenue (revenue in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, or GAAP revenue, excluding purchase accounting adjustments), (ii) $158.9 million in Operational EBITDA, as defined below, (iii) completion of the financing package for the development of Iridium NEXT, (iv) the early and successful launch of the Iridium 9602 data modem and (v) the sale of more than a specified number of short-burst data units in 2010.

Our equity program for our named executive officers consisted of stock options granted in November 2009 with exercise prices equal to 100% of the fair market value of our common stockstock. In 2013, these forms of at-risk, performance-based compensation represented approximately 63% of our chief executive officer’s target total direct compensation, and an average of 54% of our other executives’ target total direct compensation.

Fifty percent of the value of annual equity awards vest based on the dateachievement of grant, with vesting over four years based on continued service. This program promotes retention while encouragingperformance criteria.

The cash severance benefits that we offer to our namedexecutives do not exceed three times base salary and annual bonus.

We do not provide our executive officers to focus on driving stockholder value and stock appreciation over multiple years.with any excise tax or other tax gross ups.

We amended our executives’ employment agreements to provide for a more standardized, internally consistent set of severance benefits. These agreements do not provide any “golden parachute” tax gross ups,defined benefit pension plans or supplemental employee retirement plans to our executive officers.

As further described below, our executives are required to comply with our stock ownership guidelines, which we adopted in February 2012. Under these guidelines, our chief executive officer is required to accumulate shares of our common stock with a value equal to four times his annual base salary and our executive vice presidents, including our chief financial officer, chief operating officer and chief legal officer, are required to accumulate shares of our common stock with a value equal to two times their annual base salaries.

Our insider trading policy prohibits our employees, including our executives, directors and consultants, from hedging the economic interest in the Iridium shares they hold, and no pledges of stock occurred during 2013.

Our Compensation Committee has retained an independent third-party compensation consultant for guidance in making compensation decisions.

Our Compensation Committee reviews market practices and makes internal comparisons among our executives when making compensation decisions.

We structure our executive compensation programs to try to minimize the risk of inappropriate risk-taking by our executives.

Pay for Performance. Our chief executive officer and our other executive officers received a payout of approximately 66% of target from our 2013 cash severance paymentsincentive bonus plan. The below target payout was the result of our revenue, operational EBITDA and certain net subscriber activations falling short of the threshold targets for payout under the plan, while we achieved payout targets for a successful renewal of our contract with our government customer, achievement of milestones for the construction of our Iridium NEXT satellite constellation and targets relating to our joint venture, Aireon LLC. This payout underscores the strong role that at-risk, performance-based compensation plays in our executive compensation program.

In February 2012, we adopted a new performance-based restricted stock unit program for senior executives to further link compensation received from equity-based awards to achievement of specific company performance targets. The performance-based restricted stock units granted in 2012 did not vest because the performance targets applicable to these agreements dogrants were not exceed twiceachieved in the executive’s annual target cashmeasurement period of 2012 and 2013. The performance-based restricted stock units granted in 2013 that are scheduled to vest based on the measurement period of 2013 and 2014 are also not expected to vest based on the performance results from 2013 and our projected 2014 results. The forfeiture of these performance-based restricted stock units underscores the emphasis on and the linkage of this program to rewarding our executive officers based on performance. We continued to grant awards under this program in 2013 and 2014 because we believe performance-based equity contributes to our goal of heavily weighting executive compensation toward performance-based compensation.

We also grant long-term incentives in the form of options to purchase shares of our common stock and we have periodically granted restricted stock units subject to time-based vesting to align the interests of our executives with

 

23.27


Neitherthose of our executive employment agreements norstockholders and promote long-term decision making. The value, if any, that may be realized from these equity awards is directly tied to our stock plansprice performance over a multi-year period, during which time a named executive officer must continue to provide effective and satisfactory services to us for automatic “single trigger” benefits upon a change in control; instead, our employment agreements provide for “double trigger” cash and equity severance rights, and our stock plans provide for discretionary vesting of executives’his equity awards uponto vest.

Chief Executive Officer’s Realized Equity Compensation. The following chart illustrates the difference between the compensation reported in the 2013 Summary Compensation Table and compensation actually realized by our chief executive officer for 2013 related to his stock options, performance-based restricted stock units and restricted stock unit awards subject to time-based vesting granted during 2013, 2012 and 2011. We believe this supplemental information is important because a changesignificant portion of our chief executive officer’s compensation reported in control transaction.the Summary Compensation Table is an incentive for future performance, which, with respect to the stock options, will provide an economic benefit to him only if the market price for our common stock is greater than the exercise price of the options at the time of exercise. Similarly, performance-based restricted stock unit awards only provide an economic benefit if the applicable long-term performance goals are achieved.

As can be seen, the economic value realized during 2013 from the equity awards granted to our chief executive officer during 2013 and all 2012 restricted stock unit awards differs significantly from the amounts required to be reported in the 2013 Summary Compensation Table for these equity awards. This reflects the consequence of our effective pay-for-performance program.

2013 CEO Total Reported Compensation for Equity Awards(1) Versus Total Realized Compensation for Equity Awards(2)

LOGO

(1)

Total reported equity compensation is defined as the grant date value of stock awards and option awards as reported in the 2013 Summary Compensation Table.

(2)

Total realized equity compensation is defined as the sum of (i) the intrinsic value of stock options granted during each year, (ii) the payout value of any restricted stock unit awards that vested during each year, (iii) the payout value of performance-based restricted stock unit awards that vested during

28


each year for performance periods that started and ended during such year and (iv) the expected value of performance-based restricted stock unit awards for performance periods that remained outstanding at the end of the year, in each of (i) through (iv) valued as of December 31, 2013.

Objectives of Our Compensation ProgramPrograms

OurWe design our executive compensation programs are designed to achieve the following three primary objectives:to:

 

provide a competitive compensation package to attract and retain talented individuals to manage and operate all aspects of our business;

reward the achievement ofmotivate our executives to achieve corporate and individual objectives that promote the growth and profitability of our business;business, as measured by objective goals; and

align the interests of our executive officers with those of our stockholders by providing long-term equity-based compensation.stockholders.

To meet these objectives, our executive compensation package consists of a mix ofwe provide base salary, performance-based annual cash incentives, performance-based and time-based equity incentive bonuses,awards, broad-based employee benefits (withwith limited perquisites), long-term incentives in the form of equity-based awardsperquisites, and responsible severance benefits.

We believe that performance-based compensation is an important component of the total executive compensation package for attracting, motivating and retaining high quality executives. Accordingly, at least 38% of the total target cash compensation for 2010 for each of our named executive officers was performance-based, in the form of cash compensation that was subject to the achievement of annual performance goals. We do not have formal or informal policies or guidelines for allocating compensation between long-term and currently paid-out compensation, between cash and non-cash compensation, or among different forms of cash compensation orand non-cash compensation.compensation, but rather, the Compensation Committee makes determinations regarding the allocation of compensation based on the best interests of our company with the goal of encouraging and rewarding performance.

Role of the Compensation Committee

Our Compensation Committee is generally responsible for reviewing, modifying, approving and otherwise overseeing the compensation policies and practices applicable to all of our employees, including the administration of our equity plans and employee benefit plans. As part of this responsibility, the Compensation Committee establishes, reviews and modifies the compensation structure for our named executive officers. However, the Compensation Committee may, at its discretion and in accordance with the philosophy of making all information available to our Board, present executive compensation matters to the entire Board for theirits review and approval.

The Compensation Committee has the authority to delegate some or all of its duties to a subcommittee of its own members. In 2010, the Compensation Committee made a non-exclusive delegation of certain authoritieslimited authority to a subcommittee tasked with approving both cash and equity compensation arrangements that were intended tomay qualify as “performance-based compensation” under Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue CodeCode. Approval of 1986, as amended, orcompensation by the Code.subcommittee is not a guarantee of deductibility, and the Compensation Committee and the subcommittee reserve the right to structure compensation in a manner that may not meet the standards for “performance-based compensation.” When we refer to the Compensation Committee in this Compensation Discussion and Analysis, we mean the Compensation Committee as well as thisor its subcommittee, whereas applicable.

As part of its deliberations, in any given year, the Compensation Committee may review and consider materials such as company compensation and studies and reports prepared by a compensation consultant, financial reports and projections, operational data, tax and accounting information that set forth the total compensation that may become payable to executives in various hypothetical scenarios, executive and director stock ownership information, companyour common stock performance data, analyses of historical executive compensation levels and current company-wide compensation levels, and the recommendations of our chief executive officer and the Compensation Committee’s independent compensation consultant.

24.


Role of Management

Our Compensation Committee solicits and considers the performance evaluations and compensation recommendations for our named executive officers submitted to the Compensation Committee by our chief executive officer, including about his own performance and compensation.officer. However, our Compensation Committee retains the final authority to make all compensation decisions. No executive officer participated directly in the final determinations or deliberations of the Compensation Committee regarding the amount of any component of his or her own 20102013 compensation package.

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Our human resources, finance and legal departments work with our chief executive officer to design and develop recommended compensation programs to recommend for our named executive officers and other senior executives, to recommend changes to existing compensation programs, to recommend financial and other performance targets to be achieved under those programs, to prepare analyses of financial data, to prepare peer data comparisons and other briefing materials, and ultimately to implement the decisions of the Compensation Committee. Members of these departmentsour legal department also meet separately with the Compensation Committee’s independent compensation consultant to convey information on proposals that management may make to the Compensation Committee, as well as to allow the consultantsconsultant to collect information about our company to develop theirits own proposals.

Use of Compensation Consultant

In connection with the Acquisition in September 2009 and with making its decisions for executive compensation for 2010, theOur Compensation Committee engageddecided to continue its engagement of Frederic W. Cook & Co., Inc., referred to in this Compensation Discussion and Analysis asor F.W. Cook, to act as its independent compensation consultant.consultant for compensation decisions in 2013. The Compensation Committee directedoriginally retained F.W. Cook to provide its analysisin 2009 after considering a number of whether ourother national compensation strategy and practices were consistent with our compensation objectives and to assist theconsulting firms. The Compensation Committee selected F.W. Cook for its expertise in modifying our compensation programthe telecommunications industry, the recommendations of other clients of F.W. Cook, and the availability of the consultant to better achieve our objectives and comply with rules applying to a public company.attend meetings.

As part of its duties, F.W. Cook provided the Compensation Committee with the following services in late 2009 in preparation for itsrelation to compensation decisions for 2010:2013:

 

reviewed and provided recommendations on the composition ofcompensation program for our peer group of companies;non-employee directors;

provided compensation data for similarly situated executive officers at our peer group;

reviewed the compensation arrangements for all of our named executive officers, including providing adviceadvised on the design and structure of our annual cash incentive bonus plan and equity-basedequity incentive compensation program;programs;

provided advice on compensation for allprepared an analysis of our other executive officers;share usage under our equity incentive plan;

reviewed theconducted a risk analysis of our compensation program for our non-employee directors and provided recommendations to the Compensation Committee regarding this program; andprograms;

updated the Compensation Committee on emerging trends and best practices in the area of executive and Board compensation.compensation;

reviewed and provided recommendations on the composition of our 2013 peer group of companies;

provided compensation data for similarly situated executive officers at companies in our peer group; and

reviewed the compensation arrangements for all of our named executive officers, including the design and structure of our annual cash incentive bonus plan and equity-based incentive compensation program.

In connection with making its decisions for executive compensation for 2010,addition, in the fall of 2013, the Compensation Committee considered the analysis and data provided byengaged F.W. Cook in October 2009.

In addition, in late 2010,to conduct an in-depth review of the design and competitive positioning of our compensation programs for our executive officers and non-employee directors. F.W. Cook reviewedprovided analyses of the compensation programlevels and opportunities, incentive plan design, aggregate long-term incentive practices, stock ownership guidelines and perquisites for our executive officers. F.W. Cook also provided an analysis of the structure and amount of compensation received by our non-employee directors and provided recommendationsin relation to the Compensation Committee regarding this program, updated the Compensation Committee on emerging trends and best practicescompensation received by non-employee directors of companies in the area of executive and Board compensation, and conducted a risk analysis of our compensation programs. The Chairman of the Compensation Committee occasionally met separately with F.W. Cook, both with and without management present.peer group.

The Compensation Committee retainshas the authority to hire and terminate theits compensation consultant. The Companycompany pays the cost for the consultant’s services. Other than providing servicesF.W. Cook attends meetings of the Compensation Committee at the request of the Compensation Committee. The Chairman of the Compensation Committee also may communicate separately with F.W. Cook. If and as directedrequested by the Compensation Committee, F.W. Cook doesgathers information from management necessary to perform its duties to the Compensation Committee. F.W. Cook did not provide any other services directly to us.

25.


Benchmarkingmanagement or to the company.

The Compensation Committee regularly reviews relevant marketthe performance and industry practices on executive compensationindependence of F.W. Cook and of each individual employee of the consulting firm who directly provides services to balance our needthe company. In March 2014, the Compensation Committee considered whether F.W. Cook should continue to compete for talentserve as an independent adviser to the Compensation Committee. The Compensation Committee requested information from F.W. Cook about

30


potential conflicts of interest, and in particular, considered the fact that F.W. Cook provides no other services to the company, that the individual representative of F.W. Cook who works directly with the need to maintain a reasonable and responsible cost structure while aligning our executive officers’ interests with those of our stockholders. Our Compensation Committee has also discussed compensation levels inno other business or personal relationships with the contextBoard, management or the company, F.W. Cook’s own policies on ethics, stock ownership, and conflicts of interest, and that the experiences and individual knowledge of each member.

In October 2009,total revenue F.W. Cook deliveredreceived from the company in 2011, 2012 and 2013 did not exceed 0.5% of F.W. Cook’s gross revenues. In particular, the total fees paid to F.W. Cook in respect of 2013 did not exceed $60,000. As a reportresult, the Compensation Committee concluded that there were no conflicts of interest with respect to F.W. Cook providing services to the Compensation Committee.

Use of Peer Data

In the summer of 2011, the Compensation Committee that comparedengaged F.W. Cook to review and provide recommendations on the base salary and incentive cash bonus opportunity provided to our executive officers against our peer group companies, which are set forth below. The report concluded that (i) the salary levels of our executives were between the 25th and 75th percentiles of executives at our peer group companies, (ii) the annual bonus targets of our executives were at or above the median of executives at our peer group companies, and (iii) the target total cash compensation of our executives was between the 25th and 75th percentilescomposition of our peer group companies. During the first quarter of 2010,companies and, after the Compensation Committee reviewed ourapproved a final list of peers, to provide compensation data for similarly situated executive compensation package, including base salaries, annual cash incentive bonuses and equity-based awards. As discussed belowofficers at this new peer group based on proxy filings made by those companies in more detail, in viewthe spring of the October 2009 report, the global economic recession and the option grants made during 2009, the2011. The Compensation Committee decided to leave unchanged the base salaries and target bonus percentages of our executive officers. Additionally, the Compensation Committee decided not to grant options in 2010 except to newly hired employees and to Mr. Morrison in connection with his transition to his new role as our senior vice president, Iridium NEXT financing and planning.

Peer Group. In October 2009, in consultation with our Compensation Committee, F.W. Cook created a peer group company list, selecting the followingselected public companies (i) in the telecommunications industry (ii) with generally comparable revenues, EBITDA, netoperating income, asset value andtotal assets, market capitalization and (iii) with a similar number of employees.employees generally comparable to those of Iridium. The Compensation Committee approved, without change, this recommended listchose companies with respect to which Iridium was positioned between the 25th percentile and the median in all but one size measure (Iridium was below the 25th percentile for number of peer group companies:employees). The selected companies were:

Peer Group Companies (2012-2013)

 

Intelsat CorporationDigitalGlobe

  Hughes CommunicationsNeuStar

PAETEC Holding Corp.EMS Technologies

  

Time Warner Telecom Inc.

Inmarsat
ORBCOMM

Hughes Communications, Inc.GeoEye

  IntelsatPAETEC Holding Corp

Inmarsat Finance plcGlobalStar

  j2 Global CommunicationsPremier Global Services

Globecomm Systems

Loral Space & Communications Inc.ViaSat

This peer group was very similar to a prior year peer group developed for us by F.W. Cook, reflecting the addition of DigitalGlobe (which became publicly traded in May 2009), and the removal of Broadview Networks (due to poor data), SkyTerra Communications (which became privately held in 2010) and tw telecom (as it was no longer considered an appropriate peer due to size and line of business). Data from this peer group was reviewed when making decisions regarding executive compensation for both 2012 and 2013.

In the fall of 2013, in connection with F.W. Cook’s review of our compensation programs, the Compensation Committee engaged F.W. Cook to conduct a study to review and update our peer group in preparation for compensation decisions made for 2014. Based on F.W.Cook’s recommendations our revised peer group includes fourteen public companies in the telecommunications industry with revenues, operating income, total assets, market capitalization and number of employees generally comparable to those of Iridium. This peer group is very similar to the 2011 peer group developed for us by F.W. Cook that was used when making 2012 and 2013 executive compensation decisions. The selected companies were:

2014 Peer Group Companies

ViaSat, Inc.Aviat Networks

  Globecomm SystemsNeuStar

Premiere Global Services Inc.Comtech

  

Broadview Networks Holdings, Inc.

Inmarsat
ORBCOMM

NeuStar Inc.Consolidated Communications

  IntelsatPremier Global Services

EMS Technologies, Inc.DigitalGlobe

  

J2j2 Global Communications Inc.

ViaSat

GeoEye Inc.Globalstar

  

Globecomm Systems Inc.

Globalstar, Inc.

LightSquared (formerly SkyTerraLoral Space & Communications Inc.)

ORBCOMM Inc.

  

When reviewing

31


The revised group reflects the executive compensation recommendationsaddition of Aviat Networks, Comtech, Consolidated Communications and Intelsat to enhance the statistical validity of the chief executive officer,sample as several former companies in the peer group were no longer publicly traded, and the removal of EMS Technologies, GeoEye (which was acquired by DigitalGlobe), Hughes Communications and PAETEC Holding Corp because public compensation data was no longer available for such companies.

Our Compensation Committee does not make decisions solely based on peer data, but refers to peer data to help ensure that target compensation amounts do not materially deviate from market practices (as reflected by the 25th percentile, median and 75th percentile of peer group) and that target amounts provide fair compensation given individual and company performance. In particular, the Compensation Committee considers, among other factors, whether such amounts fall betweenrequested data from F.W. Cook at the 25th percentile, median and 75th percentile of the peer group data for each individual element ofbase salary, target cash bonus, actual cash bonus, aggregate equity award value, total target compensation and for total targetactual compensation. TheHowever, individual compensation decisions may deviate from the peer data, as our Compensation Committee believes referencing this range is importantdiscussed the peer data and made the 2013 compensation decisions in the context of:

the differences in our executives’ responsibilities and tenure, as compared to ensure that the compensation we offer will be able to help us attract and retain talented individuals to manage and operate all aspects ofexecutives in our business.

However, benchmarking is just a reference point andpeer group, as title is not always determinative of the only factor comparability of role from one organization to another;

the Compensation Committee considers in setting compensation. Other factors, such as economic conditions, experiences, knowledge and business judgment of each member;

corporate and individual performance, which includes setting target compensation opportunities after taking into account, in a subjective fashion, performance in the prior year, as well as the anticipated demands on the executive in the coming year;

the desire to maintain target pay opportunities and allocations between cash and equity at levels that were consistent with historical pay levels for each of our executives, given the positive responses to our past say-on-pay proposals;

our 3% company-wide corporate merit increase budget for base salaries in 2013, reflecting our desire to maintain a responsible human capital cost structure; and

internal pay equity, individual negotiationswhich we view from the perspective that (1) the target total compensation of our executive officers, other than our chief executive officer, should be within a relatively narrow range, and budget constraints may play an important role with respect(2) the target total compensation of our chief executive officer should be meaningfully higher than that of our other officers, in each case, given the relative weight of their responsibilities and ability to the compensation offered to an executive in any given year. We believe this approach helps us to compete in hiring and retaining the best possible talent while maintaining a reasonable and responsible cost structure.impact our corporate performance.

26.


Reasons for Providing, and Manner of Structuring, the Key Compensation Elements in 20102013

Base Salary

We provide base salary as a fixed source of compensation for our executives allowing them a degree of certainty infor the faceservices they provide to us during the year and to balance the impact of having a significant portion of their compensation “at risk” in the form of annual cash incentive bonuses and long-term equity-based incentive compensation. Our Compensation Committee recognizes the importance of a competitive base salariessalary as an element of compensation that helps to attract retain and motivateretain our executive officers.

TheIn February 2013, the Compensation Committee reviewsreviewed the base salaries for our executive officers annually, and may further adjust base salaries from time to time. Base salaries for our executive officers are established generally based on the scope of each officer’s responsibilities, the strategic importance of their role within our company, internal salary budget constraints and internal pay equity (that is, the base salaries of our executives other than our chief executive officer should be within a relatively narrow range, with the base salary of our chief executive officer being materially higher than those of other officers, reflecting the importance of his role to our company). The Compensation Committee considers salaries paid by our peer companies to their similarly situated officers, but does not aim to have base salaries fall within a specific range of the peer company data.

In February 2010, our Compensation Committee reviewed base salaries for our named executive officers. The Compensation Committee considered each officer’s 2012 base salary level, the overall state of the economy and theupdated peer data from F.W. Cook report’s conclusion that, at the 2009 levels,for our chief executive officer, our 3% company-wide corporate merit increase budget for base salaries, the scope of each executive’s responsibilities for each of our named executive officers were generally, as of the start of 2010, already between the median2013, and the 75th percentile for our peer group.internal pay equity. The Compensation Committee also considered the potential valuerecommendations of the equity grants made in 2009. As a result, theour chief executive officer for base salary increases for

32


officers other than himself. The Compensation Committee determined that there would be no increases in base salaries for our named executive officers in 2010. Theset the 2013 base salaries of each of the named executive officers is set forth in the table below.as follows:

Name    2012 Base Salary 2013 Base Salary % Merit Increase  

Matthew J. Desch

      $749,240*         $771,718    3.0% 

Thomas J. Fitzpatrick

      $424,360    $437,091**   3.0% 

S. Scott Smith

      $334,400    $351,120***   5.0% 

Thomas D. Hickey

      $303,850    $312,966    3.0% 

Bryan J. Hartin

      $300,000    $300,000****   0.0% 

John M. Roddy

      $341,136    $346,253    1.5% 

*

Includes an additional 2.4% salary increase for Mr. Desch in November 2012 pursuant to the terms of his previously negotiated employment agreement to coincide with the termination of a company car perquisite. Mr. Desch’s actual salary received in 2012 was $731,521.

**

In August 2013, Mr. Fitzpatrick’s annual base salary was increased to $480,000 in connection with his appointment as our chief administrative officer, in addition to his continuing role as our chief financial officer.

***

In February 2013, the Compensation Committee determined it was appropriate to provide a larger salary increase to Mr. Smith to reflect his increased level of responsibility in the organization and to further our goal of internal pay equity. In August 2013, Mr. Smith’s annual base salary was increased to $420,000 in connection with his appointment as our chief operating officer.

****

Mr. Hartin joined the company in December 2012 and was not eligible for a salary increase for 2013.

2013 Bonuses

Mr. Fitzpatrick commenced employment with us as our chief financial officer effective April 2010.2013 Bonus Plan. In connection with this new hire,March 2013, the Compensation Committee set Mr. Fitzpatrick’s base salaryapproved our 2013 executive cash performance bonus plan, or our 2013 bonus plan, which operated under the terms of our Iridium Communications Inc. 2012 Equity Incentive Plan, or our 2012 Plan. Our 2012 Plan was approved by our Board and our stockholders in 2012, and allows for the granting of performance-based compensation opportunities that may be deductible by us under Section 162(m) of the Code as amounts paid contingent upon the achievement of pre-established stockholder-approved performance goals. Our 2013 bonus plan provided cash compensation opportunities to our named executive officers based on an annual basis as set forth in the table below. This decision was based primarily on individual negotiations with Mr. Fitzpatrick, which reflect, in part, the base salary that he was being paid by his prior employer, as well as the Compensation Committee’s attention to internal pay equity and reflection on the scopeour achievement of Mr. Fitzpatrick’s expected responsibilities.

Name

  2010 Base Salary   Change from 2009

Matthew J. Desch

  $675,000    

none

Thomas J. Fitzpatrick

  $400,000    

not applicable

Eric H. Morrison

  $325,000    

none

John S. Brunette

  $430,000    

none

Gregory C. Ewert

  $340,000    

none

John M. Roddy

  $320,000    

none

Annual Cash Incentive Bonus Program

Ourpre-established performance goals derived from our Board-approved operating plan for 2013. The Compensation Committee has structured our annual executive cash incentive programthe discretion to focus our executives on achieving key operational and financial objectives within a yearly time horizon. Duringreduce the first quarteramount of each fiscal year, our Compensation Committee determinesany bonus award payable to any participant in the structure for our executive cash incentive program, including target2013 bonus amounts (typically set as a percentage of base salary) and the applicable performance goals, which may be based on company-wide performance or individual performance, or a combination of both. plan.

Target bonus levels are established generally based on the scope of each officer’s responsibilities, the strategic importance of his role within our company, internal budget constraints, internal pay equity and peer group data. Following the end of the year,Bonus Levels. In March 2013, the Compensation Committee then determines the level of achievement against those goals, and the amount of compensation earned asapproved a result of such

27.


achievement. Historically, our pre-settarget cash incentive bonus award for each executive, and capped the maximum bonus award at twice the target level in the event that stretch performance goals have been company-wide metrics, with the Compensation Committee considering individual performance in a subjective manner as an adjustment mechanism to the amount of bonus earned based on the corporate goal achievement.

Target Bonuses. In March 2010, the Compensation Committee decided to continue, unchanged, the 2009 target cash bonus levels for each named executive officer, as set forth in the table below. The target bonuswere achieved. These levels were consistent with the Compensation Committee’sour philosophy that a significant portion of each executive’s total target cash compensation should be performance based. The Compensation Committee also considered that, at the 2009 levels, the target bonus amounts for each of our named executive officers were, as of the start of 2010, already between the medianperformance-based, and the 75th percentile for our peer group. Finally,reflected the Compensation Committee determinedCommittee’s review of internal pay equity and its conclusion that, except for Mr. Smith, no extraordinary factors existed that created a need to modify the existing2012 target bonus levels.

In April 2010, in connection with the hiring Mr. Smith’s target bonus was increased effective as of Mr. Fitzpatrick, theJanuary 1, 2013 from 60% to 70% to reflect his changing role and increased level of responsibility at our organization. The Compensation Committee approved Mr. Fitzpatrick’salso considered the recommendation of our chief executive officer

33


that target bonus level as set forth inlevels for the table below. This decision was based primarily on individual negotiations with Mr. Fitzpatrick, which reflect, in part, the target bonus amount that he was eligible to earn through his prior employer, as well as the Compensation Committee’s attention to internal pay equity and reflection on the scope of Mr. Fitzpatrick’s expected responsibilities.

other officers generally not change from 2012 levels. The respective target bonus amounts for 20102013 for theour named executive officers were:

 

Name

2010 Target Bonus(1)Change from 2009

Matthew J. Desch

90

none

Thomas J. Fitzpatrick

75

not applicable

Eric H. Morrison

75

none

John S. Brunette

75

none

Gregory C. Ewert

75

none

John M. Roddy

60

none

Name  2013 Target Bonus   % of 2013 Base Salary

Matthew J. Desch

   $694,546    90%

Thomas J. Fitzpatrick

   $340,496    75%

S. Scott Smith

   $264,779    70%*

Thomas D. Hickey

   $187,780    60%

Bryan J. Hartin

   $180,000    60%

John M. Roddy

   $207,752    60%

 

(1)*

ExpressedIn August 2013, Mr. Smith’s annual bonus target was increased to 75% effective January 1, 2014 in connection with his appointment as a percentage of base salary.our chief operating officer.

20102013 Bonus Plan Structure and Metrics. In March 2010, the Compensation Committee structured the cash incentive plan so that executives could earn an annual cash bonus based primarily on the achievement of five corporate performance goals, weighted as described below. At the end of the year, the Compensation Committee would determine achievement against each of the five objectives and determine the total percentage of achievement, which could be as much as 200%. The actual bonus earned would then be determinedaward for each executive under the 2013 bonus plan was calculated by multiplying the executive’s target bonus amount by a corporate performance factor determined by the actualCompensation Committee, which could range from 0% to 200% based on the achievement of the corporate achievement percentage. Thisperformance goals discussed below. The resulting amount could then be reduced but not increased or decreased based on the individual performance percentage (from 0% to 150%) determined, subjectively and in their discretion, by the Compensation Committee.

The 2010Committee based on a personal performance factor ranging from 0% to 100%. In March 2013, the Compensation Committee determined that the corporate performance factor would be determined based upon the level of achievement of four financial and three strategic performance goals, consisted of:with the corporate performance factor being the sum of the achievement levels of each performance goal. The bonus amounts would then be determined based on a sliding scale up to 200% of target based upon the corporate performance factor. The Compensation Committee would then use negative discretion to determine the actual bonus awards, which could be lower, but not greater, than 200% of the target bonus amount for each participant, based on individual performance. To be eligible for a bonus for 2013, the executive was required to remain employed by us through the date the bonus was to be paid, except as otherwise provided in an executive’s employment agreement in connection with a termination of employment.

For 2013, the corporate performance factor was the sum of the achievement levels of the following corporate goals, as further described below:

Performance Goal

  Target Performance
Weighting
 

Potential Excess Achievement

Operational EBITDA

  25% 0% to 35% on a sliding scale

Adjusted Revenue

  10% 0% to 15% on a sliding scale

EMSS contract renegotiation

  20% 0% to 20% on a sliding scale

Iridium NEXT milestone achievement

  15% None

Aireon milestone achievement

  15% 15%

Short-Burst Data subscriber additions

  7.5% 0% to 7.5% on a sliding scale

Iridium OpenPort® subscriber additions

  7.5% 0% to 7.5% on a sliding scale

Total of Target Weighting

  100% 

Total of Excess Potential Achievement Weightings

   100%

Maximum Possible Award

   200%

 

a revenuean Operational EBITDA target, (GAAP revenue excluding purchase accounting adjustments) of $352.4 million, weighted at 10% for target performance,25%, with a scale of potential payouts ranging from a maximum of 20%60% credit for performance at or above 111%104.5% of target or $391.16 million, to a minimum of 0% credit for performance at less than 95%below 95.0% of target, or $334.78 million;target;

an Operational EBITDAadjusted revenue target of $154.8 million,(revenue calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP, but excluding purchase accounting adjustments), weighted at 40% for target performance,10%, with a scale of potential payouts ranging from a maximum of 80%25% credit for performance at or above 113%102.4% of target to a minimum of 0% credit for performance of less than 97.6% of target;

34


successful renegotiation of a new EMSS contract or $174.92 million,contract extension that would support a targeted amount of revenue in 2014, weighted at 20%, with a scale of potential payouts ranging from a maximum of 40% credit for performance at or above 105% of targeted revenue to a minimum of 0% credit for performance below 92%95.0% of target, or $142.42 million;targeted revenue;

a revenue target to stay substantially on schedule for specifiedplanned 2015 Iridium OpenPortNEXT satellite launches and stay substantially on budget for the overall program, weighted at 15%, with no potential stretch payout;

achievement of development milestones to keep AireonSM on schedule for launch, weighted at 15%, with a potential stretch payout of an additional 15% for achievement of commercial goals related to air navigation service providers;

a target level for short-burst data net subscriber additions or short-burst data service revenue, weighted at 10% for target performance,7.5%, with a potential stretch payout for achievement of target performance plus a scale of potential payouts ranging from a maximum of 15% credit for net subscriber additions at or above 110.7% of target to a specified rangeminimum of additional Iridium OpenPort subscribers resulting in up to 20% credit;

28.


the successful completion0% credit for net subscriber additions below 48.1% of a financing for our Iridium NEXT constellation, weighted at 30% for achievement, with a potential stretch payout in the discretion of our Compensation Committee resulting in up to 60% credit;target; and

the successful launch of the new Iridium 9602 product by July 2010, with a specified initial sales target weighted at 10% for achievement, with a potential stretch payout for sales of at least 125% of the initial sales target and an increase of at least 55% in sales of short-burst data units overall for 2010 over 2009, resulting in up to 20% credit.

a target level for Iridium OpenPort® net subscriber activations or Iridium OpenPort service revenue, weighted at 7.5% for target achievement, with a scale of potential payouts ranging from a maximum of 15% credit for net subscriber additions at or above 112.5% of target to a minimum of 0% credit for net subscriber additions below 66.7% of target.

Operational EBITDA was defined as earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization, Iridium NEXT revenue and expenses, stock-based compensation expenses and the impact of purchase accounting adjustmentsadjustments.

At the time the Compensation Committee set our goals for 2013, the Compensation Committee believed that the 2013 bonus plan goals were achievable, but only with significant effort. Our revenue and changes inOperational EBITDA targets reflected an approximately 9.5% and 6.9% increase over our actual results for 2012, respectively. The EMSS contract renegotiation goal was intended to reward performance based upon the fair valuelevel of warrants. The Compensation Committee’s practice when determiningrevenue generated directly by the achievement ofcontract but subject to a scaled target is to round to the nearest increment in the scale or whole percentage point, depending on the target.

minimum revenue threshold. The Compensation Committee set high targets for net subscriber additions and revenue for short-burst data and Iridium OpenPort service revenue and additional Iridium OpenPort subscribers, in order to encourage management to aggressively pursue growth in this area,these areas, and high targets for the launch and initial sales ofAireon milestones to recognize the new Iridium 9602 product, in order to reward the launchachievement of a promising new productdifficult goal and encourage the establishmentaggressive pursuit of ana long-term benefit to the company. The Compensation Committee set a fixed goal based upon achievement of certain milestones for the Iridium NEXT program with respect to launch schedules to reward employees for staying on plan with respect to meeting a very aggressive initial sales growth rate.time frame for completing this critical program.

20102013 Performance and Bonus Payouts under 2013 Bonus Plan.. We In 2013, we delivered strong performance in 2010 against our corporate performance goals resulting in an aggregate corporate performance factor under our 2013 bonus percentageplan of 120%. 66%, based upon achievement of our performance goals as follows and as further described below:

Performance GoalAchievement

Operational EBITDA

0%

Adjusted Revenue

0%

EMSS Contract Renegotiation

21% for performance in excess of target

Iridium NEXT milestone achievement

15% for target performance

Aireon milestone achievement

30% for performance in excess of target

Short-Burst Data subscriber additions

0%

Iridium OpenPort subscriber additions

 0% 

Total

66%

35


Specifically:

 

We successfully renegotiated our EMSS contract resulting in expected 2014 revenue (GAAP revenue excluding purchase accounting adjustments) of $351.5$65.5 million, which was 99.7%101% of target, yielding 10%21% credit under the 2013 bonus plan;

Operational EBITDAWe successfully stayed substantially on plan with respect to targeted launches of $158.9 million,Iridium NEXT satellites and program budget, yielding 44%15% credit under the 2013 bonus plan; and

the successful completion of the COFACE financing forWe exceeded our Iridium NEXT constellation,Aireon development milestones, yielding 30% credit under the bonus plan, plus 16% credit as a result of the Compensation Committee’s discretionary component; and

the successful early launch of the new Iridium 9602 product, with sales of it and our other short-burst data products in excess of stretch targets, yielding 20% credit under the2013 bonus plan.

The Compensation Committee reviewedlevels of GAAP revenue, Operational EBITDA and net subscriber activations and revenue in short-burst data and Iridium OpenPort achieved in 2013 did not reach the targets and no credit was awarded under the 2013 bonus plan for these remaining performance goals.

In February 2013, our chief executive officer shared his evaluations of the individual performance of each of our other named executive officers with the Compensation Committee. Based upon our chief executive officer in February 2011. In determining the individualofficer’s recommendations, and based upon a review of our chief executive officer’s performance, percentage for each named executive officer, the Compensation Committee considered the following:

Matthew J. Desch: The Compensation Committee selected anconcluded that each executive was performing at or above expected individual performance percentage of 100% for 2010 based on his role in contributing to our strong corporate results, ensuring our successful completion of the financing for Iridium NEXT on favorable terms, introducing new products, achieving specified sales goals, expanding international sales, executing new partnering agreements and his exhibition of strong leadership skills.

Thomas J. Fitzpatrick: The Compensation Committee selected an individual performance percentage of 100% for 2010 based on his role in contributing to our successful completion of the financing for Iridium NEXT on favorable terms, ensuring accurate and timely public company reporting and compliance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, engaging in 2011 financial planning, including cash management planning, improving investor relations, providing corporate-wide business leadership and human resources and corporate planning, and his quick integration into the finance department. As a result of Mr. Fitzpatrick’s strong 2010 personal performance, our chief executive officer recommended,levels, and the Compensation Committee approved, the award of a full-year bonus, rather than a pro-rateddid not reduce any executive’s bonus based on his early April start date, for 2010.

29.


Eric H. Morrison: Our chief executive officer selected an individual performance percentage of 104% based on his smooth transition to his new roles leading the Iridium NEXT financing project and the financial planning function and the successful closing of our $1.8 billion credit facility in October 2010.

John S. Brunette: Mr. Brunette was ineligible to earn a bonus for 2010 because he is no longer an employee. Accordingly, no individual performance determination was made by the Compensation Committee.

Gregory C. Ewert: The Compensation Committee selected an individual performance percentage of 100% based on his role in contributing to strong sales of the new Iridium 9602 product in 2010, continuing strong sales of our handset products despite growing competition, growing our Iridium OpenPort service, contributing to new business development ideas, expanding international sales and executing new licensing agreements.

John M. Roddy: The Compensation Committee selected an individual performance percentage of 100% based on his role in negotiating our long-term operations and maintenance contract with The Boeing Company, improving our gateway performance, leading successful research and development efforts for our new products, improving our customer billing, increasing inventory and manufacturing efficiency and service efficiency and reliability, and his leadership skills.

performance. As a result, the named executive officers earned the following bonus amounts for 2010:2013:

 

Name

  Target Bonus
Level ($)
 Corporate
Performance %
 Individual
Performance %
 Actual Bonus
Earned
   Target Bonus
Level ($)
   Corporate
Performance (%)
   Individual
Performance (%)
   Actual Bonus
Earned ($)
 

Matthew J. Desch

  $607,500    120  100 $729,000     694,546     66     100     458,400  

Thomas J. Fitzpatrick

  $300,000    120  100 $360,000     340,496     66     100     224,728  

Eric H. Morrison(1)

  $243,750   120  104.2 $304,688  

John S. Brunette(2)

               (3)           (3)               (3)               (3) 

Gregory C. Ewert

  $255,000    120  100 $306,000  

S. Scott Smith

   264,779     66     100     174,754  

Thomas D. Hickey

   187,780     66     100     123,935  

Bryan J. Hartin

   180,000     66     100     118,800  

John M. Roddy

  $192,000    120  100 $230,400     207,752     66     100     121,234

 

(1)*

Mr. Morrison ceasedRoddy’s 2013 bonus was prorated in connection with his termination of employment in November 2013, pursuant to be an executive officer in March 2010, when he resigned as our chief financial officer.

(2)

Mr. Brunette’sthe terms of his employment with us terminated on December 31, 2010.

(3)

Mr. Brunette was not eligible to earn a cash incentive bonus for 2010.agreement.

Equity-Based Incentive Compensation

The Compensation Committee believes that properly structured equity compensation works to align the long-term interests of stockholders and employees by creating a strong, direct link between employee compensation and stock price appreciation. We most recently granted stockhave historically awarded equity in the form of options, to our named executive officers in November 2009. These optionswhich have an exercise price equal to the fair market value of a share of our common stock on the date of grant, and vest based on continued service over a specified period (typically, four years). As a result of the way we structure our option awards, options provide a return to the executive only if such officer remains employed by us, and then only if the market price of our common stock appreciates over the period interm of the option. In certain cases, we have also granted restricted stock units subject to time-based vesting.

We also have a performance share program, which provides for the option vests. Equity-based awards are currently granted undergrant of performance-based restricted stock units. The Compensation Committee established this program to (i) focus key employees on achieving specific performance targets, (ii) reinforce a team-oriented approach, (iii) provide significant award potential for achieving outstanding performance and (iv) enhance our 2009 Iridium Communications Inc. Stock Incentive Plan, or the 2009 Plan.

In determining the size of equity grants,ability to attract and retain highly talented individuals. Under this program, the Compensation Committee granted awards to designated key employees in 2013, with each award representing a specified maximum number of shares of common stock that may consider, in any given year,ultimately be earned under each officer’s responsibilities,award. The maximum award is calculated by reference to the strategic importancetarget award value. The number of his role withinshares ultimately paid under the award is determined based on achievement of performance goals over a two-year performance period, and is subject to additional time-based vesting thereafter. These performance shares provide a return to the executive if the executive remains employed by us and our company achieves specific performance targets from 2013 through 2014.

36


The Compensation Committee determined an aggregate target award size for each executive based on the peer data provided by F.W. Cook, our internal equity budget constraints andfor grants for 2013, internal pay equity.equity, and the recommendations of our chief executive officer. Based on the recommendations of F.W. Cook, the Compensation Committee decided to allocate 50% of the target value of each award in the form of stock options subject to a four-year vesting schedule, and 50% in the form of performance-based share awards. The Compensation Committee considers the sizefelt that this mix of stock options and value of equityperformance-based share awards granted bywas necessary to promote our peer companies to their similarly situated officers, but does not aim to have equity award values fall within a specific range of the peer company data.retention, motivation and stockholder alignment goals.

30.


Stock Option Grants in 2010.2013. The Compensation Committee decided not to make option grants to our named executive officers in 2010, except with respect to Mr. Fitzpatrick and Mr. Morrison as described below. The Compensation Committee felt that option grants to our executives were not appropriate given the option grants made to our executives in November 2009 in connection with the Acquisition. Based on the peer group data provided by F.W. Cook,In February 2013, the Compensation Committee feltapproved the 2009 awards provided sufficient retention incentive and compensation opportunities for 2010.

Mr. Fitzpatrick commenced employmentgrant of new stock options to each of our executive officers, effective March 1, 2013, that would be subject to vesting based on continued service over four years, with us as our chief financial officer in April 2010. In connection with this new hire, the Compensation Committee granted a stock option to Mr. Fitzpatrick, to purchase 300,000 shares of common stock. The size of this grant was based primarilyone-quarter vesting on individual negotiations with Mr. Fitzpatrick (which reflected, in part, equity awards that Mr. Fitzpatrick was eligible to receive from his prior employer),March 1, 2014, and the size of the equity holdings of our other executive officers. Thisremainder vesting thereafter in twelve equal quarterly installments. Each option has an exercise price equal to the fair market value of $8.39 pera share the closing price of our common stock on the date of grant. The number of shares subject to each grant and, consistent withwas equal to the vesting schedule applicablenumber of shares having a grant date fair value equal to the target option value.

The option grants to our otherexecutive officers vestsin 2013 were as follows:

Name  Date of Grant  Target Option Value ($)   Number of Shares 

Matthew J. Desch

  March 1, 2013     448,800     178,804  

Thomas J. Fitzpatrick

  March 1, 2013     200,000     79,681  

S. Scott Smith

  March 1, 2013     187,500     74,701  

Thomas D. Hickey

  March 1, 2013     165,000     65,737  

Bryan J. Hartin*

  January 1, 2013   376,650     135,000  

John M. Roddy

  March 1, 2013     165,000     65,737  

*

Mr. Hartin was granted stock options effective on January 1, 2013 in connection with the commencement of his employment with us in December 2012, and he was not granted additional stock options on March 1, 2013.

In addition, in December 2013, the Compensation Committee approved the grant of stock options under our 2012 Plan to 25%Messrs. Fitzpatrick and Smith in the amount of $250,000 each, for a total of 90,909 shares each, effective as of January 1, 2014 in connection with their promotions to chief administrative officer and chief operating officer, respectively. The stock options will vest over four years, with one-quarter vesting on January 1, 2015, and the shares on the first anniversary of the date of grant and as to the remaining 75% of the sharesremainder vesting thereafter in 12twelve equal quarterly installments.

Performance-Based Share Grants in 2013.In connection with Mr. Morrison’s transition to his new role as the senior vice president, Iridium NEXT financing and planning at Iridium Satellite,February 2013, the Compensation Committee granted Mr. Morrison a stock option to purchase 67,500approved target performance-based share awards for our executive officers, effective March 1, 2013. The number of shares of common stock. The size of this grant was based primarily on the smaller size of the option granted to Mr. Morrison in November 2009 as comparedsubject to the options grantedtarget performance-based share awards was equal to our other named executive officers. This option has an exercise price of $8.84 per share,the target grant value divided by the closing price of our common stock on the date of grant, and vests as to 12.5% of thegrant.

Name  Target Value ($)   Number of Shares 

Matthew J. Desch

   448,800     73,815  

Thomas J. Fitzpatrick

   200,000     32,894  

S. Scott Smith

   187,500     30,838  

Thomas D. Hickey

   165,000     27,138  

John M. Roddy

   165,000     27,138  

Mr. Hartin was not granted any performance-based shares in eight equal quarterly installments beginning on January 19, 2012.2013 due to his date of hire.

The following table indicatesactual awards to be earned by each executive will be determined based on the growth of our average GAAP service revenue for 2013 and 2014, over our 2012 GAAP service revenue. We must achieve at least a 6% average

37


increase in GAAP service revenue during 2013 and 2014 over the GAAP service revenue in 2012 for any award to be earned. The number of shares underlying options grantedearned would increase based on the average growth in GAAP service revenue over such period above 6%, up to eachthe maximum award of 150% of the namedtarget number of shares for an average rate of growth equal to or greater than 10%. In addition, the actual awards would be reduced to zero if we fail to achieve an average OEBITDA margin for 2013 and 2014 that exceeds our OEBITDA margin for 2011. OEBITDA margin is defined as Operational EBITDA expressed as a percentage of adjusted revenue. Adjusted revenue is defined as our reported GAAP revenue excluding the impact of purchase accounting and Iridium NEXT revenue.

The actual awards earned are also subject to time-based vesting, with 50% of the earned shares vesting when the Compensation Committee determines our level of achievement of the performance goals, which would occur in the first quarter of 2015, and the remaining 50% vesting on March 1, 2016, subject to continuous employment of the participant with us or our subsidiaries through such dates. In addition, if a change in control occurs before the date the Compensation Committee determines our level of achievement of the performance goals, the executive officers would be awarded, effective as of immediately prior to the change in 2010:control, an actual award equal to the target award, subject to the same vesting schedule, with the first vesting date being March 1, 2015.

The Compensation Committee’s practice when determining the achievement of a scaled target is to use linear extrapolation between points, and to round to the nearest increment in the scale or whole percentage point, depending on the target. At the time the Compensation Committee set our goals for the performance units granted in 2013, the Compensation Committee believed that the goals were achievable, but only with significant effort, as illustrated by the lack of vesting of earlier performance unit grants. The performance units granted in 2012 did not vest in 2014 because the performance targets applicable to these grants were not achieved in the measurement period of 2012 and 2013, and the performance units granted in 2013, which are scheduled to vest based on the measurement period of 2013 and 2014, are not expected to vest based on the performance results from 2013 and our projected 2014 results.

Name

Restricted Stock Unit Grants. In addition, in December 2013, the Compensation Committee approved the grant of restricted stock units under our 2012 Plan to Messrs. Fitzpatrick and Smith in the amount of $250,000 each, for a total of 40,000 shares each, effective as of January 1, 2014 in connection with their promotions to chief administrative officer and chief operating officer, respectively. The restricted stock units will vest over four years, with one-quarter vesting on January 1, 2015, and the remainder vesting thereafter in twelve equal quarterly installments.

Number of Shares
Underlying
Options

Matthew J. Desch

0

Thomas J. Fitzpatrick

300,000

Eric H. Morrison(1)

67,500

John S. Brunette

0

Gregory C. Ewert

0

John M. Roddy

0

(1)

Mr. Morrison ceased to be an executive officer in April 2010 when he resigned as our chief financial officer.

Equity Compensation Policies

Currently, we do not have anIn February 2012, the Compensation Committee decided that as a general matter, the Compensation Committee would plan to make compensatory equity award grant timing policy. Equity awards are generally made at regularly scheduled meetings,grants a maximum of four times a year on January 1, March 1, June 1 and without regard to the timing of the release of public information.September 1. As necessary to meet business needs, the Compensation Committee or the Board may grant equity awards outside of theirthese regularly scheduled meetings.

We encouragedates. The Compensation Committee followed this schedule in 2013 and only made equity grants to our named executive officers to hold a significant equity interest in our company, but we have not set specific ownership guidelines. effective on January 1 and March 1, 2013.

We have a policy that prohibits our executive officers, directors and other members of management from engaging in short sales, transactions in put or call options, hedging transactions or other inherently speculative transactions with respect to our stock. In addition, none of our executive officers or directors pledged any shares of our stock during 2013.

Stock Ownership and Holding Guidelines

In February 2012, our Compensation Committee adopted stock ownership guidelines for our executives at the level of vice president and above and for our directors. Our Compensation Committee, in consultation with F.W. Cook, determined that stock ownership guidelines are common among large public companies and are increasing

 

31.38


in prevalence among mid-sized and smaller companies. The Compensation Committee also determined that stock ownership guidelines help align the interests of our executives with those of our stockholders and may act as a risk mitigation device.

The stock ownership guidelines are based on a multiple of base salary or annual cash retainer. Under the guidelines, our chief executive officer is required to own shares of our common stock with a value at least equal to four times his annual base salary. Each of our executive vice presidents (including our chief financial officer, chief operating officer and chief legal officer), senior vice presidents and vice presidents are required to own shares of our common stock with a value at least equal to two times, one times and one-half times such vice president’s annual base salary, respectively. Each non-employee director is required to own shares of our common stock with a value equal to four times his or her annual base cash retainer for Board service (not including amounts received for service on Board committees).

For purposes of these guidelines, “ownership” includes: (1) shares directly (not beneficially) owned; (2) shares directly (not beneficially) owned jointly by the individual and his or her spouse; (3) shares held in trust or other estate planning vehicle (e.g., family limited partnership) for the benefit of the individual and/or his or her family members; (4) shares equal to the number of vested deferred stock units credited to the individual under a deferred compensation arrangement; and (5) shares credited to the individual’s 401(k) plan account.

There is no specific time period within which the individual must attain the applicable stock ownership targets under the guidelines. Rather, starting on February 1, 2012, and until an individual comes into compliance with the guidelines, he or she is required to retain 50% percent of Net Profit Shares from each stock award on exercise, vesting or earn-out. “Net Profit Shares” means: (1) shares received on the vesting or issuance (as applicable) of full value stock awards (e.g., restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance shares) granted after these guidelines were adopted, net of the actual number of shares withheld or sold at vesting or issuance to cover taxes; and (2) shares received on the exercise of stock options granted after these guidelines were adopted, net of the actual number of shares tendered or sold at exercise to cover the exercise price and taxes related to exercise.

Change in Control and Severance Benefits

Under the terms of the employment agreementagreements with each of our executive officers, either we or the officerexecutive may terminate the officer’sexecutive’s employment at any time. Each of our named executive officers areis eligible, under the terms of theirhis respective employment agreements,agreement, to receive, in exchange for a release of claims, severance benefits upon the termination of theirhis employment either by us without cause (and other than as a result of their death or disability) or by themhim for good reason, with additional severance benefits provided in the event suchthe termination is in connection with a change in control. In December 2010, we entered into agreements to clarify the mannerThe terms and conditions of exemption from, or compliance with, the provisions of Section 409A of the Code. In addition, we used these agreements as an opportunity to standardize the severance benefits provided to our named executive officers, in order to ensure internal pay equity among the officers. These severance provisions are discussed more fully in the section below under the heading “—Potential Payments upon Termination or Change in Control.” We do not provide any excise tax gross ups on change in controlchange-in-control benefits.

These agreements reflect the negotiations between some ofwith our named executive officers and us at the time of their hiring or promotion, and in other cases reflectwe entered into the agreements, as well as our desire to have a consistent set of benefits across the executive suite. Theteam. Our Compensation Committee considers these severance benefits critical to attracting and retaining high caliberhigh-caliber executives. Additionally, theour Compensation Committee believes that additional change in controlchange-in-control severance benefits in the form of accelerated vesting of stock options serves to minimize the distractions to an executive in connection with a corporate transaction and reduce the risk that an executive officer departs our company before an acquisitiona transaction is consummated.completed. We believe that our existing arrangements allow our executive officers to focus on continuing normal business operations and, in the case of change in controlchange-in-control benefits, on the success of a potential business combination, rather than worryingworry about how business decisions that may be in our best interest will impact their own financial security. These existing arrangements help ensure stability among our executive officer ranks, and will help enable our executive officersexecutives to maintain a balanced perspective in making overall business decisions during periods of uncertainty.

Signing and Retention Bonuses

We hired

39


Mr. FitzpatrickRoddy’s employment with us terminated effective April 2010. Mr. Fitzpatrick’s employment agreement provides for the paymentNovember 7, 2013. For a description of a signing bonus in an amount equal to $50,000 paid on the effective date of the agreement and retention bonuses in an amount equal to $50,000, each to be paid on the first and second anniversaries of the effective date. Under the terms of Mr. Fitzpatrick’s employment agreement, each ofRoddy’s separation and severance benefits, see the retention bonuses are paid only ifheading “—Severance Payments to Mr. Fitzpatrick remains continuously employed by us through each applicable payment date. This benefit reflects the negotiations between Mr. Fitzpatrick and us at the time of his hiring, and the collective knowledge and experience of our Compensation Committee members on attracting and retaining new employees for our executive officer ranks.Roddy” below.

401(k) PlanEmployee Benefits

OurWe provide broad-based medical insurance, dental insurance, vision coverage, life insurance and accidental death and dismemberment insurance benefits to our employees, including our named executive officers. We also provide our employees, including our named executive officers, are eligiblewith the opportunity to participate in our 401(k) plan. Our 401(k) plan is intended to qualify as a tax qualified plan under Section 401 of the Code. Our 401(k) plan provides that each participant may contribute a portion of his or her pretax compensation, up to a statutory limit, which for most employees was $16,500 in 2010, with a larger “catch up” limit for older employees. Employee contributions are held and invested by the plan’s trustee. We match all eligible employee contributions dollar for dollar up to 5% of an employee’s salary, with a maximum match per employee of $12,250$12,750 in each calendar year. We believe that the provisionthese insurance and retirement savings benefits are consistent with practices of this benefit helpssimilarly sized companies and help to recruit and retain key talent at a minimal cost to us.

Other Benefits and Perquisites

We provide medical insurance, dental insurance, vision coverage, life insurance and accidental death and dismemberment insurance benefits to all employees, including our named executive officers. These benefits are available to all employees on the same terms and conditions and are subject to applicable laws.

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Our executive officers generally do not receive any supplemental retirement benefits or perquisites, except for limited perquisites provided on a case by casecase-by-case basis. In considering potential perquisites, the Compensation Committee reviews ourcompares the cost as compared to the perceived value we receive.

Under the terms of his employment agreement, Mr. Desch is entitled to use of an automobile or a cash car allowance at our expense through November 1, 2012, and he was also entitled to reimbursement for the annual dues at a Washington, D.C.-area country club through December 31, 2010. The cost of these benefits for 2010 was $9,936, and we do not provide a tax gross up on the cost ofproviding these benefits. Additionally, we

We have agreed to purchase and maintain a term life insurance policy in the face amount of $400,000 for Mr. Desch. These benefits are provided as a result of negotiations with Mr. Desch when he initially joinedhis employment commenced with our subsidiary Iridium Holdings.Holdings in 2006. With respect to the term life insurance policy, the Compensation Committee decided that rather than paypaying Mr. Desch this amount as severance upon death out of our general assets, it iswas more cost effectivecost-effective to provide for these payments through insurance. These

This limited perquisitesperquisite helped us to recruit Mr. Desch, and now they helpit helps us to retain his services, at what the Compensation Committee believes is a minimal cost to us.

Under the terms of his employment agreement, Mr. Roddy is entitled to specified basic relocation benefits, and a reimbursement of taxes due on such benefits, in order to provide for his return to Canada if his employment is terminated without cause or by him for good reason. We estimate that if these benefits were triggered on December 31, 2010, the cost of these benefits would have been approximately $30,000. These benefits are provided as a result of negotiations with Mr. Roddy at the time of his hiring by Iridium Satellite, and were necessary to induce him to accept employment at that time. These limited perquisites helped us to recruit Mr. Roddy, and now they help us to retain his services, at what the Compensation Committee believes is a minimal cost to us.

We do not make available to any employees any defined benefit pension or nonqualified deferred compensation plan or arrangement.

Deductibility of Executive Compensation;Compensation Under Code Section 162(m)

One or more executive officer’s annual compensation may exceed $1.0 million. Code Section 162(m) deniesof the Code limits the amount that a public company may deduct from federal income tax deductiontaxes for specified compensation in excess of $1.0 million per yearremuneration paid to the chief executive officer and the three other most highly paid executive officers, other than the chief financial officer, up to $1.0 million per executive per year, unless certain requirements are met. While our Compensation Committee is mindful of a publicly traded corporation. Some typesthe benefit to us of the full deductibility of compensation, including compensation based on performance criteriaour Compensation Committee believes that are approvedit should not be constrained by the requirements of Section 162(m) where those requirements would impair flexibility in advance by stockholders, are excluded from the deduction limit. Our policy is to qualify compensation paid tocompensating our executive officers for deductibility for federal income tax purposesin a manner that can best promote our corporate objectives. We intend to the extent feasible. However,continue to retain highly skilled executives and remain competitivecompensate our executive officers in a manner consistent with other employers, our Compensation Committee may authorize compensation that would not be deductible under Code Section 162(m) or otherwise if it determines that such compensation is in the best interests of our company and itsour stockholders.

Accounting Considerations

We account for equity compensation paid to our employees under accounting rules that require us to estimate and record an expense over the service period of the award. Our cash compensation, on the other hand, is recorded as an expense at the time the obligation is accrued. The accounting impact of our executive compensation program is one of many factors that the Compensation Committee considers in determining the size and structure of that program.

Compensation Recovery Policy

We do not have aAmounts paid and awards granted under our 2013 executive cash performance bonus plans, our 2013 employee cash performance bonus plan, our 2013 performance share program and our 2012 Plan, are subject to recoupment in accordance with the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and any applicable regulations under the Act, any clawback policy to attempt to recover cash bonus payments paid to our executive officers if the performance objectives that led to the determination of such payments were to be restated,company adopts or found not to have been met to the extent the Compensation Committee originally believed. However,as is required by applicable law. In addition, as a public company subject to the provisions of Section 304 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, if we are required as a result of misconduct

33.


to restate our financial results due to our material noncompliance with any financial reporting requirements under the federal securities laws, our chief executive officer and chief financial officer may be legally required to reimburse us for any bonus or other incentive-based or equity-based compensation they receive. In addition, we will comply with the requirements of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and will adopt a compensation recovery policy once the SEC adopts final regulations on the subject.

40


Risk Analysis of Our Compensation Plans

In December 2010, the Compensation Committee retainedearly 2014, F.W. Cook to conductconducted a risk assessment of our compensation policies. F.W. Cookpolicies in effect for 2013, and delivered a report to the Compensation Committee in February 2011 summarizing the results of their risk assessment. The Compensation Committee has reviewed the report and has also independently reviewedconsidered our compensation risk policies as generally applicable to our employees and believes that our policies do not encourage excessive or unnecessary risk-taking, and that the level of risk that they do encourage is not reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on our company. TheWe design of our compensation policies and programs to encourage our employees to remain focused on both our shortshort- and long-term goals. For example, while our cash bonus plans measure performance on an annual basis, our equity awards typically vest over a number of years, which we believe encourages our employees to focus on sustained stock price appreciation, thus limiting the potential value of excessive risk-taking.

 

34.41


EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Summary Compensation Table

The following table shows the total compensation earned by the named executive officers in 2008, 20092011, 2012 and 2010. The information regarding 2009 compensation includes both compensation they received from Iridium Holdings prior to the Acquisition in September 2009, and compensation they received from us after they joined our executive team following the Acquisition. Information regarding 2008 compensation includes only compensation they received from Iridium Holdings.2013. The named executive officers consist of our chief executive officer, our chief financial officer and our other three most highly compensated executive officers during 2010,who were serving as executive officers at December 31, 2013, and one other individual who served as our chief financialformer executive officer whose employment terminated during 2010.2013.

 

Name and Principal Position

 Year  Salary(1)  Bonus  Equity
Awards(2)
  Option
Awards(3)
  Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation(4)
  All Other
Compensation
  Total 

Matthew J. Desch,

  2010   $675,000    —      —      —     $729,000   $23,702(5)  $1,427,702  

Chief Executive Officer

  2009    675,000    —      —     $2,246,964    486,000    24,878(5)   3,432,842  
  2008    675,000    —     $3,573,953    —      759,375    27,329(5)   5,035,657  

Thomas J. Fitzpatrick,

  2010    296,970   $50,000(7)   —      1,821,000    360,000    13,260(8)   2,541,230  

Chief Financial Officer(6)

        

Eric H. Morrison,

  2010    325,000    —      —      429,300    304,688    13,693(10)   1,072,681  

Former Chief Financial Officer

  2009    325,000    —      —      364,635    214,500    13,715(10)   917,850  

and current Senior Vice President Iridium NEXT Financing and Planning, Iridium Satellite(9)

  2008    325,000    —      —      —      304,688    12,673(10)   642,361  

John S. Brunette,

  2010    430,000    —      —      —      —      812,187(11)   1,242,187  

Former Chief Legal and

  2009    430,000    —      —      758,350    258,000    13,776(11)   1,460,126  

Administrative Officer

  2008    430,000    —      539,741    —      258,000    5,653(11)   1,233,394  

Gregory C. Ewert,

  2010    340,000    —      —      —      306,000    13,635(10)   659,635  

Executive Vice President of

  2009    340,000    —      —      758,350    193,800    13,667(10)   1,305,817  

Global Distribution Channels, Iridium Satellite

  2008    340,000    —      —      —      318,750    12,673(10)   671,423  

John M. Roddy,

  2010    320,000    —      —      —      230,400    13,667(12)   564,067  

Executive Vice President for

  2009    320,000    —      —      758,350    145,920    13,684(12)   1,237,954  

Global Operations and Product Development, Iridium Satellite

  2008    320,000    —      —      —      240,000    42,044(12)   602,044  

Name and Principal Position

 Year  Salary($)  Bonus($)  Stock
Awards ($)(1)
  Option
Awards($)(2)
  Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation($)(3)
  All Other
Compensation($)
  Total($) 

Matthew J. Desch,

  2013        771,718    —           448,800    448,800    458,400        14,094(4)       2,141,812  

Chief Executive Officer

  2012    734,474    —       841,500    280,500    —       13,223    1,869,697  
  2011    710,215    —       —           1,122,000    543,314    24,876    2,400,405  

Thomas J. Fitzpatrick,

  2013    453,995    —       200,000    200,000    224,728    14,094(4)   1,092,817  

Chief Financial Officer and

  2012    424,360        50,000(5)   292,500    97,500    —       13,223    877,583  

Chief Administrative Officer

  2011    412,000    50,000(5)   —       374,000    262,650    13,765    1,112,415  

S. Scott Smith,

  2013    378,255    —       187,500    187,500    174,754    14,094(4)   942, 103  

Chief Operating Officer

  2012    334,400    50,000(5)   279,000    93,000    —       13,223    769,623  
  2011    309,350    50,000(5)   —      336,600    157,768    13,741    867,459  

Bryan J. Hartin,

  2013    300,000    25,000(5)   —      376,650    118,800    5,719(4)   826,169  

Executive Vice President, Sales & Marketing

        

Thomas D. Hickey,

  2013    312,966    —       165,000    165,000    123,935    14,094(4)   780,995  

Chief Legal Officer and Secretary

        

John M. Roddy,

  2013    306,148    —       165,000    165,000    121,234    360,123(7)   1,117,505  

Former Executive Vice President for Global Operations and Product Development, Iridium Satellite(6)

  

 

2012

2011

  

  

  

 

341,136

329,600

  

  

�� 

 

—   

—   

  

  

  

 

279,000

—   

  

  

  

 

93,000

336,600

  

  

  

 

—   

168,096

  

  

  

 

13,223

13,667

  

  

  

 

726,359

847,963

  

  

 

(1)

The amounts in this column for 2009 reflect the following amounts of salary paid by Iridium Holdings to the respective executive for the period prior to the Acquisition: $506,250 to Mr. Desch, $243,750 to Mr. Morrison, $322,500 to Mr. Brunette, $255,000 to Mr. Ewert and $240,000 to Mr. Roddy; plus the following amounts of salary paid by us to the respective executive for the period following the Acquisition: $168,750 to Mr. Desch, $81,250 to Mr. Morrison, $107,500 to Mr. Brunette, $85,000 to Mr. Ewert and $80,000 to Mr. Roddy.

(2)

The amounts in this column for 2008 reflect the aggregate dollar amount of the accounting expensesgrant date fair value that were recognized in 2008 and will be recognized in the applicable year and subsequent years for financial statement reporting purposes with respect to restricted stock units, or RSUs and performance-based share grants granted in Employee Holdings LLCthe applicable year. Assuming achievement of the maximum award for the executive’s performance-based shares granted to these employees by Iridium Holdings in 2008.2013, the values would be $673,200 for Mr. Desch, $300,000 for Mr. Fitzpatrick, $281,250 for Mr. Smith and $247,500 for Mr. Hickey. Assuming achievement of the maximum award for the executive’s performance-based shares granted in 2012, the values would be $1,122,000 for Mr. Desch, $390,000 for Mr. Fitzpatrick and $372,000 for each of Messrs. Roddy and Smith. Pursuant to SEC rules, thesethe amounts shown exclude the impact of estimated forfeitures related to service-based vesting conditions. Assumptions used in the calculation of these amounts are included in Note 210 to Iridium Holdings’our consolidated financial statements.statements included in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013. Mr. Roddy’s unvested awards were cancelled in connection with his departure in November 2013.

(3)(2)

The amounts in this column reflect the aggregate dollar amount of the accounting expensegrant date fair value that will be recognized in the applicable year and subsequent years for financial statement reporting purposes with respect to stock options granted in the applicable year. Pursuant to SEC rules, the amounts shown exclude the impact of estimated forfeitures related to service-based vesting conditions. Assumptions used in the calculation of these amounts are included in Note 210 to our consolidated financial statements included in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010.2013. Following his departure in November 2013, Mr. Roddy’s outstanding options expired.

(4)(3)

The amounts in this column reflect cash incentive bonuses earned during the respective year and paid during the first quarter of the following year.

(5)(4)

Includes $11,500 inConsists of 401(k) matching contributions and $12,000 in reimbursement of country club dues in 2008. Includes $12,250 in 401(k) matching contributions in each of 2009life, accident and 2010.long-term disability insurance premiums.

(5)

Represents a retention bonus.

(6)

Mr. Fitzpatrick was not employed by us in 2008 or 2009.Roddy departed the company effective November 7, 2013.

(7)

Represents a signing bonus.

(8)

Includes $346,253 in severance payments, as well as 401(k) matching contributions of $12,250.

(9)

and life, accident and long-term disability insurance premiums. For more information, see “—Severance Payments to Mr. Morrison served as chief financial officer of our company until April 5, 2010.

(10)

Includes 401(k) matching contributions of $11,500 in 2008 and $12,250 in each of 2009 and 2010.

(11)

Includes 401(k) matching contributions of $12,250 in each of 2009 and 2010. Also includes in 2010 a severance benefit consisting of a lump sum payment of $387,000, payable on December 31, 2010; $394,167, which represents 11 months of Mr. Brunette’s base salary, to be paid in accordance with our normal payroll practices; and $17,255, representing cash payments equal to the amount of Mr. Brunette’s COBRA premium for 11 months. In exchange for these severance benefits, Mr. Brunette agreed to release our company from any claimsRoddy” below.

 

35.42


he may have against us, including in connection with his employment and the termination of his employment, and not to compete with us or solicit our employees during the 11-month severance period.

(12)

Includes 401(k) matching contributions of $11,500 in 2008 and $12,250 in each of 2009 and 2010, and relocation assistance valued at $29,371 in 2008.

Grants of Plan-Based Awards for 20102013

The following table sets forth information relating to grants of plan-based incentive awards to the named executive officers in 2010.2013.

 

Name

  Grant
Date
  Estimated Future Payouts Under
Non-Equity Incentive Plan Awards

(1)
   Number of
Shares
Underlying
Option
Awards (#)
   Exercise
Price of
Option
Awards
($/Share)
   Grant Date
Fair Value
of Option
Awards
($)(2)
 
   Threshold
($)
   Target
($)
   Maximum
($)
       

Matthew J. Desch

   (3  —      $607,500    $1,822,500     —       —       —    

Thomas J. Fitzpatrick

   (3)(4)   —       300,000     900,000     300,000    $8.39    $1,821,000  

Eric H. Morrison

   (3)(5)   —       243,750     731,250     67,500     8.84     429,300  

John S. Brunette

   (3  —       322,500     967,500     —       —       —    

Gregory C. Ewert

   (3  —       255,000     765,000     —       —       —    

John M. Roddy

   (3  —       192,000     576,000     —       —       —    

Name

 Grant
Date
  Estimated Future Payouts
Under
Non-Equity Incentive Plan
Awards
(1)
  Estimated Future Payouts
Under
Equity Incentive Plan
Awards
  All Other
Option
Awards:
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Options (#)
  Exercise
or Base
Price of
Option
Awards
($/Sh)
  Grant Date
Fair Value
of Stock
and Option
Awards
($)
 
  Threshold
($)
  Target
($)
  Maximum
($)
  Threshold
(#)
  Target
(#)
  Maximum
(#)
    

Matthew J. Desch

   —      694,546    1,389,092        
  3/01/13          178,804    6.08    448,800  
  3/01/13       —      73,815    110,722      448,800  

Thomas J. Fitzpatrick

   —      340,496    680,992        
  3/01/13          79,681    6.08    200,000  
  3/01/13       —      32,894    49,341      200,000  

S. Scott Smith

   —      264,779    529,558        
  3/01/13          74,701    6.08    187,500  
  3/01/13       —      30,838    46,257      187,500  

Bryan J. Hartin

   —      180,000    360,000     —       —        
  1/01/13          135,000    6.72    376,650  

Thomas D. Hickey

   —       187,780    375,560        
  3/01/13          65,737    6.08    165,000  
  3/01/13       —      27,138    40,707      165,000  

John M. Roddy(2)

   —       207,752    415,504        
  3/01/13          65,737    6.08    165,000  
  3/01/13       —       27,138    40,707      165,000  

 

(1)

These amounts represent the target and maximum payments for each named executive officer under the Iridium Holdings 2010 performance-basedour 2013 executive cash incentiveperformance bonus program.plan. There werewas no minimum or threshold amountsamount under this program.

(2)

The amountsMr. Roddy’s options were cancelled in this column reflect the aggregate dollar amount of the accounting expense that will be recognizedconnection with his departure in 2010 and subsequent years for financial statement reporting purposes with respect to stock options granted in 2010. Pursuant to SEC rules, the amounts shown exclude the impact of estimated forfeitures related to service-based vesting conditions. Assumptions used in the calculation of these amounts are included in Notes 2 and 11 to our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2010.November 2013.

(3)

All non-equity incentive plan awards were granted on March 30, 2010.

(4)

This stock option was granted on April 19, 2010.

(5)

This stock option was granted on May 24, 2010.

43


Outstanding Equity Awards at 20102013 Year-End

The following table sets forth the equity-based awards held by the named executive officers that were outstanding on December 31, 2010.2013.

 

   Option Awards 

Name

  Number of Shares Underlying
Unexercised Options (#)
  Option
Exercise
Price
($/Share)
   Option
Expiration
Date
 
  Exercisable(1)   Unexercisable(1)    

Matthew J. Desch

   100,000     300,000   $8.73     11-19-2019  

Thomas J. Fitzpatrick

   —       300,000(2)   8.39     04-19-2020  

Eric H. Morrison

   33,750     25,312    8.73     11-19-2019  
   —       67,500(3)   8.84     05-24-2020  

John S. Brunette

   33,750     101,250    8.73     01-30-2011(4) 

Gregory C. Ewert

   33,750     101,250    8.73     11-19-2019  

John M. Roddy

   33,750     101,250    8.73     11-19-2019  

36.


Name

 Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options
Exercisable
(#)
  Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options
Unexercisable

(#)(1)
  Option
Exercise
Price
($)
  Option
Expiration
Date
(2)
  Number
of
shares
or units

of stock
that
have
not
vested

#(3)
  Market
value
of
shares
or
units

of
stock
that

have
not
vested

$(4)
  Equity Incentive
Plan Awards:
Number of

Unearned
Shares,

Units or Other
Rights That
Have

Not Vested
#
  Equity Incentive
Plan Awards: Market or
Payout Value of
Unearned Shares,
Units or Other
Rights that Have
Not Vested
$(4)
 

Matthew J. Desch

  —      178,804    6.08    03-01-2023      
  36,631    47,100    7.56    03-01-2022      
  206,250    93,750    8.31    02-21-2021      
  400,000    —      8.73    11-19-2019      
      20,871    130,444    
        74,206(5)   463,788 2012 Performance RSUs  
        73,815(6)   461,344 2013 Performance RSUs  

Thomas J. Fitzpatrick

  —      79,681    6.08    03-01-2023      
  12,733    16,371    7.56    03-01-2022      
  68,750    31,250    8.31    02-21-2021      
  262,500    37,500    8.39    04-19-2020      
      7,254    45,338    
        25,793(5)   161,206 2012 Performance RSUs  
        32,894(6)   205,588 2013 Performance RSUs  

S. Scott Smith

  —      74,701    6.08    03-01-2023      
  12,145    15,616    7.56    03-01-2022      
  61,875    28,125    8.31    02-21-2021      
  118,125    16,875    8.39    04-19-2020      
      6,920    43,250    
        24,603(5)   153,769 2012 Performance RSUs  
        30,838(6)   192,738 2013 Performance RSUs  

Bryan J. Hartin

  —      135,000    6.72    01-01-2023      

Thomas D. Hickey

  —      65,737    6.08    03-01-2023      
  12,145    15,616    7.56    03-01-2022      
  84,375    50,625    7.78    05-03-2021      
      6,920    43,250    
        24,603(5)   153,769 2012 Performance RSUs  
        27,138(6)   169,613 2013 Performance RSUs  

John M. Roddy(7)

  10,410    —      7.56    03-01-2022      
  56,250    —      8.31    02-21-2021      

 

(1)

Except as otherwise noted, allAll options shown vestedvest 25% on November 19, 2010, the first anniversary of their grant date, andwith the remaining 75% vestvesting thereafter in 12 equal quarterly installments, except for Mr. Morrison’s option, which vested 50% on November 19, 2010, and the remaining 50% vest thereafter in four equal quarterly installments.

(2)

75,000The expiration date of each stock option occurs ten years from the date of grant.

(3)

These shares underlying this optionrepresent time-based RSUs outstanding at December 31, 2013 which vest as to 25% on April 19, 2011, andthe first anniversary of their grant date, with the remaining 225,000 shares vest75% vesting thereafter in twelve12 equal quarterly installments.

(3)(4)

The shares underlying this option vest in eight equal quarterly installments, commencingmarket value amount is calculated based on January 19, 2012 and continuing each successive quarter thereafter.the closing price of our common stock of $6.25 at December 31, 2013.

(4)(5)

Expiration date was 30 days following Mr. Brunette’s termination date ofThese shares represent performance-based share grants outstanding at December 31, 2010.2013. The number of shares not yet earned is based on the target amount. The awards are also subject to time-based vesting, with 50% of the earned shares vesting upon the determination that the goals have been achieved, which would occur in the first quarter of 2014, and the remaining 50% vesting on March 1, 2015.

(6)

These shares represent performance-based share grants outstanding at December 31, 2013. The number of shares not yet earned is based on the target amount. The awards are also subject to time-based vesting, with 50% of the earned shares vesting upon the determination that the goals have been achieved, which would occur in the first quarter of 2015, and the remaining 50% vesting on March 1, 2016.

(7)

Mr. Roddy’s outstanding equity awards were either cancelled in connection with his departure in November 2013 or expired unexercised.

44


Securities Authorized for Issuance under Equity Compensation Plans

The following table provides certain information with respect to all of our equity compensation plans in effect as of December 31, 2013:

   Number of securities
to be issued upon
exercise of
outstanding options,
warrants and
rights(1)
(a)
   Weighted-average
exercise price of
outstanding options,
warrants and rights(1)
(b)
   Number of securities
remaining available for
future issuance under
equity compensation plans
(excluding securities
reflected in column (a))
(c)
 

Equity compensation plans approved by security holders:

   7,673,548    $6.36     5,447,316  

Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders(2):

   —      —      —   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   7,673,548    $    6.36     5,447,316  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

(1)

Includes 1,490,254 shares issuable upon the settlement of restricted stock units without consideration. The weighted average exercise price of the outstanding options and rights other than these restricted stock units is $7.89. There are no warrants outstanding under our equity compensation plan.

(2)

We do not maintain any equity compensation plans that are not approved by our stockholders.

45


Option Exercises and Stock Vested in 20102013

No named executive officer exercised anystock options in 2010.2013. The following table provides certain information with respect to RSU vesting for the named executive officers during 2013.

Option Exercises and Stock Vested

Name

  Stock Awards 
  Number of shares
acquired on vesting
(#)(1)
  Value
realized on
vesting
($)(2)
 

Matthew J. Desch

   16,232(3)   102,818  

Thomas J. Fitzpatrick

   5,642(4)   35,738  

S. Scott Smith

   5,379(5)   34,071  

Bryan J. Hartin

   —      —    

Thomas D. Hickey

   5,379(5)   34,071  

John M. Roddy

   4,612(6)   29,409  

(1)

Consists of the vesting of service-based RSUs.

(2)

Based on a closing price of $6.08 on March 1, 2013, $7.34 on June 3, 2013, $6.60 on September 3, 2013 and $6.08 on December 2, 2013.

(3)

9,275 vested on March 1, 2013 and quarterly thereafter in equal installments of 2,319 on June 1, September 1 and December 1.

(4)

3,224 vested on March 1, 2013 and quarterly thereafter in equal installments of 806 on June 1, September 1 and December 1.

(5)

3,075 vested on March 1, 2013 and quarterly thereafter in equal installments of 768 on June 1, September 1 and December 1.

(6)

3,075 vested on March 1, 2013, 768 vested on June 1, 2013 and 769 vested on September 1, 2013.

Employment Agreements

Matthew J. Desch.We entered into an employment agreement with Mr. Desch in September 2010 to replace his expiring employment agreement, pursuant to which he serves as our chief executive officer and a member of our Board. This agreement was immaterially amended in December 2010 to clarify certain terms of the agreement, including, among other reasons, for compliance with tax laws.laws, and was further amended and restated in March 2011. The agreement, hasas amended, had an initial term of three years endingthrough September 18, 2013 and will automatically renewrenews for successive one-year periods unless we or Mr. Desch give written notice of intent not to renew the agreement not less than six months prior to the renewal date. The employment agreement providesprovided for an initial annual base salary with a required increase of $675,000, which must be increased by $14,529 effective January 1, 2011 and further increased by $17,719 effective November 1, 2012, which is subject to provide Mr. Deschfurther increase by the cash value of perquisites that were agreed to expire at those times.Board or Compensation Committee. Pursuant to his employment agreement, Mr. Desch is eligible to earn an annual incentive cash bonus, with a target bonus equal to 90% of his then-current base salary, with the actual amount of the bonus determined by our Compensation Committee and based upon performance goals set by such committee for the year.

Mr. Desch is eligible to participate in employee benefit plans made available to other senior executives. We arewere required to provide him with use of an automobile or a cash car allowance at our expense through November 1, 2012, and we were required to reimburse him for the cost of annual dues for a private club of his choice in the metropolitan Washington, D.C. area through December 31, 2010.2012. In addition, we are required to purchase and maintain a term life insurance policy in the face amount of $400,000 for Mr. Desch.

In his employment agreement, Mr. Desch has agreed not to compete with us or solicit our employees for alternative employment during his employment with us and for a period of one year after termination of his employment for any reason.

46


Mr. Desch’s employment agreement provides for payments upon specified terminations of his employment. For a description of these termination provisions, whether or not following a change in control, and a quantification of benefits that he would receive, see the heading “—Potential Payments upon Termination or Change in Control” below.

Thomas J. Fitzpatrick. In connection with his hiring, we entered into an employment agreement with Mr. Fitzpatrick in March 2010, with such employment agreement effective April 5, 2010, pursuant to which he serves as our chief financial officer. This agreement was immaterially amended in December 2010 to clarify certain terms of the agreement, including, among other reasons, for compliance with tax laws. The employment agreement hashad an initial term of three years, endingthrough April 5, 2013 and will automatically renewrenews for successiveone-year periods unless we or Mr. Fitzpatrick give written notice of intent not to renew the agreement not less than six months prior to the renewal date. The employment agreement providesprovided for an initial annual base salary, of $400,000.subject to increase by the Board or Compensation Committee. Pursuant to his employment agreement, Mr. Fitzpatrick is eligible to earn an annual incentive cash bonus, with a target bonus equal to 75% of his then-current base salary, with the actual amount of the bonus

37.


determined by our Compensation Committee and based upon performance goals set by such committee for the year. In addition, the agreement providesprovided for the payment of a signing bonus in an amount equal to $50,000, paid on the effective date of the agreement, and retention bonuses in an amount equal to $50,000 each, to be paid on the first and second anniversaries of the effective date of the agreement. Under the termsThe last of the agreement, each of the retentionthese bonuses arewas paid only if Mr. Fitzpatrick remains continuously employed with us through each applicable payment date.in 2012.

Mr. Fitzpatrick is eligible to participate in employee benefit plans made available to other senior executives.

In his employment agreement, Mr. Fitzpatrick has agreed not to compete with us or solicit our employees for alternative employment during his employment with us and for a period of one year after termination of his employment for any reason.

Mr. Fitzpatrick’s employment agreement provides for payments upon specified terminations of his employment. For a description of these termination provisions, whether or not following a change in control, and a quantification of benefits that he would receive, see the heading “—Potential Payments upon Termination or Change in Control” below.

Eric H. Morrison.S. Scott Smith. Iridium SatelliteWe entered into an employment letter agreement with Mr. Morrison on April 25, 2006, pursuant to which he served as its executive vice president and chief financial officer. We assumed this employment letter agreement by virtue of the Acquisition. The employment letterSmith in March 2010. This agreement was immaterially amended in December 2010 to ensureclarify certain terms of the agreement, including, among other reasons, for compliance with applicable law. The employment letter agreement provides for an initial base salary of $260,000 and participation in our annual incentive plan with a target award of up to 35% of his then-current base salary, as determined by our Compensation Committee and based upon performance goals set by the Compensation Committee for the year. In February 2008, the Compensation Committee of Iridium Holdings increased Mr. Morrison’s compensation to a base salary of $325,000 and participation in our annual incentive plan with a target award of up to 75% of his then-current base salary, as determined by our Compensation Committee and based upon performance goals set by the Compensation Committee for the year. In March 2010, Mr. Morrison resigned as our chief financial officer, effective April 5, 2010, and transitioned to the new role of senior vice president, Iridium NEXT financing and planning at Iridium Satellite. His compensation remained unchanged.

Mr. Morrison is eligible to participate in employee benefit plans made available to other employees.

Mr. Morrison’s employment with us is “at will.” However, his letter agreement provides for payments upon specified terminations of his employment. For a description of these termination provisions and a quantification of benefits that he would receive, see the heading “—Potential Payments upon Termination or Change in Control” below.

John S. Brunette. Iridium Satellite entered into an employment letter agreement with Mr. Brunette dated December 6, 2007 to serve as its chief administrative officer and general counsel. We assumed this employment letter agreement by virtue of the Acquisition. The employment letter agreement provided for payment of a base salary of $335,000 and participation in our annual incentive plan with a target award of up to 35% of his then-current base salary, as determined by our Compensation Committee and based upon performance goals set by the Compensation Committee for the year. In February 2008, the Compensation Committee of Iridium Holdings increased Mr. Brunette’s compensation to a base salary of $430,000 and participation in our annual incentive plan with a target award of up to 75% of his then-current base salary, as determined by our Compensation Committee and based upon performance goals set by the Compensation Committee for the year.

Mr. Brunette’s employment with us terminated on December 31, 2010. On December 22, 2010, in connection with his termination of employment, we entered into a release agreement with Mr. Brunette. The release agreement provided for a severance benefit consisting of a lump sum payment of $387,000, payable on December 31, 2010, plus $394,167, which represented 11 months of Mr. Brunette’s base salary, to be paid over

38.


an 11-month period in accordance with our normal payroll practices. The release agreement also provided for a taxable cash payment equal to the amount of Mr. Brunette’s COBRA premium for the lesser of 11 months or the number of months Mr. Brunette and his dependents are enrolled in COBRA. All amounts payable under the release agreement will be paid less applicable taxes and withholdings. In exchange for these severance benefits, Mr. Brunette agreed to release us from any claims he may have against us, including in connection with his employment and the termination of his employment. Mr. Brunette also agreed not to compete with us or solicit our employees during the 11-month severance period.

Gregory C. Ewert. Iridium Satellite entered into an employment agreement with Mr. Ewert in December 2010, which supersedes and replaces his employment letter agreement, which Iridium Satellite previously entered into on September 30, 2004. Pursuant to the employment agreement, Mr. Ewert will continue to serve as our executive vice president, global distribution channels.tax laws. The employment agreement provideshad an initial term of three years through April 19, 2013, and automatically renews for successive one-year periods unless we or Mr. Smith give written notice of intent not to renew the agreement not less than 90 days prior to the renewal date. The employment agreement provided for an initial annual base salary, of $340,000.subject to increase by the Board or Compensation Committee. Pursuant to his employment agreement, Mr. EwertSmith is eligible to earn an annual incentive cash bonus, with a target bonus equal to 75%60% of his then-current base salary, with the actual amount of the bonus determined by our Compensation Committee and based upon performance goals set by such committee for the year. In March 2013, the Compensation Committee increased Mr. Smith’s target bonus to 70% of his base salary. In addition, the agreement provided for the payment of a signing bonus in an amount equal to $50,000, paid on the effective date of the agreement, and retention bonuses in an amount equal to $50,000 each, to be paid on the first and second anniversaries of the effective date of the agreement. The last of these bonuses was paid in 2012.

Mr. EwertSmith is eligible to participate in employee benefit plans made available to other senior executives.

In his employment agreement, Mr. EwertSmith has agreed not to compete with us or solicit our employees for alternative employment during his employment with us and for a period of one year after termination of his employment for any reason.

47


Mr. Ewert’sSmith’s employment agreement provides for payments upon specified terminations of his employment. For a description of these termination provisions, whether or not following a change in control, and a quantification of benefits that he would receive, see the heading “—Potential Payments upon Termination or Change in Control” below.

John M. Roddy.Bryan J Hartin. Iridium SatelliteWe entered into an employment agreement with Mr. RoddyHartin in December 2010, which supersedes and replaces his employment letter agreement, which Iridium Satellite previously entered into on August 1, 2007, as amended on December 31, 2008. Pursuant to the employment agreement, Mr. Roddy will continue to serve as our executive vice president, global operations and product development.2012. The employment agreement providesprovided for an initial annual base salary, of $320,000.subject to increase by the Board or Compensation Committee. Pursuant to his employment agreement, Mr. RoddyHartin is eligible to earn an annual incentive cash bonus, with a target bonus equal to 60% of his then-current base salary, with the actual amount of the bonus determined by our Compensation Committee and based upon performance goals set by such committee for the year.

Mr. RoddyHartin is eligible to participate in employee benefit plans made available to other senior executives.

In his employment agreement, Mr. Hartin has agreed not to compete with us or solicit our employees for alternative employment during his employment with us and for a period of one year after termination of his employment, if he is receiving severance payments during such period.

Mr. Hartin’s employment agreement provides for payments upon specified terminations of his employment, including in connection with a change in control. For a description of these termination provisions, see “—Potential Payments upon Termination or Change in Control.”

Thomas D. Hickey. We entered into an employment agreement with Mr. Hickey in April 2011. The employment agreement provided for an initial annual base salary, subject to increase by the Board or Compensation Committee. Pursuant to his employment agreement, Mr. Hickey is eligible to earn an annual incentive cash bonus, with a target bonus equal to 60% of his then-current base salary, with the actual amount of the bonus determined by our Compensation Committee and based upon performance goals set by such committee for the year.

Mr. Hickey is eligible to participate in employee benefit plans made available to other senior executives.

In his employment agreement, Mr. Hickey has agreed not to compete with us or solicit our employees for alternative employment during his employment with us and for a period of one year after termination of his employment, if he is receiving severance payments during such period.

Mr. Hickey’s employment agreement provides for payments upon specified terminations of his employment, including in connection with a change in control. For a description of these termination provisions, see “—Potential Payments upon Termination or Change in Control.”

John M. Roddy. Iridium Satellite entered into an employment agreement with Mr. Roddy hasin December 2010, which superseded and replaced his employment letter agreement, which Iridium Satellite previously entered into on August 1, 2007, as amended on December 31, 2008. The employment agreement provided for an initial annual base salary, subject to increase by the Board or Compensation Committee. Pursuant to his employment agreement, Mr. Roddy was eligible to earn an annual incentive cash bonus, with a target bonus equal to 60% of his then-current base salary, with the actual amount of the bonus determined by our Compensation Committee and based upon performance goals set by such committee for the year.

Mr. Roddy was eligible to participate in employee benefit plans made available to other senior executives.

In his employment agreement, Mr. Roddy agreed not to compete with us or solicit our employees for alternative employment during his employment with us and for a period of one year after termination of his employment for any reason.

48


Mr. Roddy’s employment agreement providesprovided for payments upon specified terminations of his employment. For a description of these termination provisions, whether or not following a change in control, and a quantification of benefits that he would receive,received, see the heading “—PotentialSeverance Payments upon Termination or Change in Control”to Mr. Roddy” below.

Potential Payments upon Termination or Change in Control

Severance Payments.

The section below describes the payments that may be made to the named executive officers in connection with a change in control or pursuant to specified termination events, pursuant to the terms of the employment agreements between us and them.

39.


Matthew J. Desch. Mr. Desch’s employment agreement, described above, provides that he may be terminated by us for any reason upon written notice. However, the employment agreement provides for payments to him in the event of the termination of his employment in specified termination situations.

Termination by reason of death or disability. If Mr. Desch’s employment is terminated due to his death or disability (as defined in his employment agreement), he will receive a bonus based on the amount he would have been entitled to receive if he had remained employed by us throughout the applicable fiscal year but pro-rated for the number of days he was employed during such year.

Termination without cause, for good reason or in connection with a change in control. In the event that we terminate Mr. Desch’s employment without cause, or Mr. Desch terminates his employment for good reason (as these terms are defined in his employment agreement), he will be entitled to receive a sum equal to (i) one times18 months of his then-current base salary and (ii) one timesan amount equal to his then-current target bonus such sum payablefor the year in equal installments over a periodwhich his employment is terminated, based on the actual achievement of 12 months.the performance goals, pro-rated for the portion of the year that he was employed by us. He also will receive payment of his COBRA premiums (or, if required for us to comply with nondiscrimination rules, a taxable cash payment equal to the amount of his COBRA premiums) until the earlier of (a) 12 months from separation, (b) the expiration of COBRA eligibility or (c) the date he or his dependents become eligible for substantially equivalent health insurance coverage through new employment or self employment.self-employment. In the event that such termination occurs within the 12-month period commencing on a change in control (as defined in our 2009 stock incentive plan), then the cash severance amounts described above shall be paid to him in a single lump sum and in addition to such cash severance payment, 100% of his then-outstanding stock options and other equity awards will become vested and exercisable, as applicable, pursuant to the terms of the applicable equity award agreements.

These severance payments and benefits are subject to Mr. Desch executing, delivering and not revoking a release of claims in favor of our company.

Thomas J. Fitzpatrick. Mr. Fitzpatrick’s employment agreement, described above, provides that he may be terminated by us for any reason upon written notice. However, the employment agreement provides for payments to him in the event of the termination of his employment in specified termination situations.

Termination without cause, for good reason or in connection with a change in control. In the event that we terminate Mr. Fitzpatrick’s employment without cause, or Mr. Fitzpatrick terminates his employment for good reason (as these terms are defined in his employment agreement), he will be entitled to receive a sum equal to (i) one times his then-current base salary and (ii) one times his then-current target bonus, such sum payable in equal installments over a period of 12 months. In the event that such termination occurs prior to April 5, 2011 and following our public announcement that the Board has authorized a sale of substantially all of our business or assets (including by way of a merger) for a per share price that is less than $15.00, the amount to be paid to Mr. Fitzpatrick over the 12-month severance period shall instead be equal to the sum of (i) two times his then-current base salary and (ii) one times his then-current target bonus, such sum payable in equal installments over a period of 12 months. In either case, heHe will also receive payment of his COBRA premiums (or, if required for us to comply with nondiscrimination rules, a taxable cash payment equal to the amount of his COBRA premiums) until the earlier of (a) 12 months from separation, (b) the expiration of COBRA eligibility or (c) the date he or his dependents become eligible for substantially equivalent health insurance coverage through new employment or self employment.self-employment. In the event that such termination occurs within the 12-month period commencing on a change in control (as defined in the 2009 Plan), then the cash severance amounts described above shall be paid to him in a single lump sum, and in addition to such cash severance payment, 100% of his

49


then-outstanding stock options and other equity awards will become vested and exercisable, as applicable, pursuant to the terms of the applicable equity award agreements.

These severance payments and benefits are subject to Mr. Fitzpatrick executing, delivering and not revoking a release of claims in favor of our company.

40.


Eric H. Morrison. Mr. Morrison’s employment letter agreement, described above, provides that he may be terminated by us for any reason upon written notice. However, the agreement provides for payments to him in the event of the termination of his employment in certain termination situations.

Termination without cause or constructive discharge. In the event that we terminate Mr. Morrison’s employment without cause, or Mr. Morrison terminates his employment upon constructive discharge (as these terms are defined in his employment letter agreement), he will be entitled to receive a severance benefit consisting of (i) 3 months of his then-current base salary, to be paid in accordance with our normal payroll practices, and (ii) a pro-rated performance bonus.

These severance payments and benefits are subject to Mr. Morrison executing, delivering and not revoking a release of claims in favor of our company.

John S. Brunette.Scott Smith. Mr. Brunette’s employment letter agreement provided that he could be terminated by us for any reason upon written notice. However, in the event we terminated his employment without cause or he terminated his employment upon constructive discharge (as defined in his employment letter agreement), he was entitled to receive a pro-rated performance bonus amount. Following the termination of Mr. Brunette’s employment on December 31, 2010, and our entry into the release agreement described above, he was no longer entitled to any severance or change in control payments other than those specified in the release agreement.

Gregory C. Ewert. Mr. Ewert’sSmith’s employment agreement, described above, provides that he may be terminated by us for any reason upon written notice. However, the employment agreement provides for payments to him in the event of the termination of his employment in specified termination situations.

Termination without cause, for good reason or in connection with a change in control. In the event that we terminate Mr. Ewert’sSmith’s employment without cause, or Mr. EwertSmith terminates his employment for good reason (as these terms are defined in his employment agreement), he will be entitled to receive a severance benefit consisting of (i) 12 months ofone times his then-current base salary, to be paid in accordance with our normal payroll practices, (ii) a pro-rated portion ofone times his then-current target performance bonus, based on actual performance as determined by the Compensation Committee (except that if the termination is within 12 months after a change in control (as defined in our 2009 stock incentive plan), the bonus will not be pro-rated), to be paidsuch sum payable in equal installments over the 12-month severancea period of 12 months, (iii) payment of his COBRA premiums (or, if required for us to comply with nondiscrimination rules, a taxable cash payment equal to the amount of his COBRA premiums) for the lesser of (a) 12 months from separation, (b) the expiration of COBRA eligibility or (c) the date he or his dependents become eligible for substantially equivalent health insurance coverage through new employment or self-employment and (iv) full vesting of his equity awards in the event of termination within 12 months after a change in control.

These severance payments and benefits are subject to Mr. Smith executing, delivering and not revoking a release of claims in favor of our company.

Bryan J. Hartin. Mr. Hartin’s employment agreement provides that he may be terminated by the company for any reason upon written notice. However, the employment agreement provides for payments to him in the event of the termination of his employment in specified termination situations.

Termination without cause, for good reason or in connection with a change in control. In the event that we terminates Mr. Hartin’s employment without cause, or Mr. Hartin terminates his employment for good reason (as these terms are defined in his employment agreement), he will be entitled to receive a sum equal to (i) one times his then-current base salary and (ii) an amount equal to his bonus for the year in which his employment is terminated, based on the actual achievement of the performance goals, pro-rated for the portion of the year that he was employed by us, paid in equal installments on our company’s normal payroll schedule over the remainder of the 12-month severance period after the date we determine actual performance and the amount of bonus that would have been earned based on such performance. He will also receive payment of his COBRA premiums (or, if required for the company to comply with nondiscrimination rules, a taxable cash payment equal to the amount of his COBRA premiums) until the earlier of (a) 12 months from separation, (b) the expiration of COBRA eligibility or (c) the date he or his dependents become eligible for substantially equivalent health insurance coverage through new employment or self employment, and (iv) full vesting of his equity awards inemployment. In the event ofthat such termination occurs within 12 months afterthe12-month period commencing on a change in control.control (as defined in the company’s 2009 stock incentive plan), then the base salary amount described above shall be paid to him in a single lump sum, the bonus amount described above shall not be pro-rated, and in addition to such cash severance payment, 100% of his then-outstanding stock options and other equity awards will become vested and exercisable, as applicable, pursuant to the terms of the applicable equity award agreements.

These severance payments and benefits are subject to Mr. EwertHartin executing, delivering and not revoking a release of claims in favor of our company.

John M. Roddy.Thomas D. Hickey. Mr. Roddy’sHickey’s employment agreement, described above, provides that he may be terminated by us for any reason upon written notice. However, the employment agreement provides for payments to him in the event of the termination of his employment in specified termination situations.

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Termination without cause, for good reason or in connection with a change in control. In the event that we terminate Mr. Roddy’sHickey’s employment without cause, or Mr. RoddyHickey terminates his employment for good reason (as these terms are defined in his employment agreement), he will be entitled to receive a severance benefit consisting ofsum equal to (i) 12 months ofone times his then-current base salary and (ii) an amount equal to be paidhis bonus for the year in accordance with our normal payroll practices, (ii) awhich his employment is terminated, based on the actual achievement of the performance goals, pro-rated for the portion of his target performance bonus, based on actual performance as determinedthe year that he was employed by the Compensation Committee (except that if the termination is within 12 months after a change in control (as defined in our 2009 stock incentive plan), the bonus will not be pro-rated), to beus, paid in equal installments on our company’s normal payroll schedule over the remainder of the 12-month severance period (iii)after the date we determine actual performance and the amount of bonus that would have been earned based on such performance. He will also receive payment of his COBRA premiums (or, if required for usthe company to comply with

41.


nondiscrimination rules, a taxable cash payment equal to the amount of his COBRA premiums) foruntil the lesserearlier of (a) 12 months from separation, (b) the expiration of COBRA eligibility or (c) the date he or his dependents become eligible for substantially equivalent health insurance coverage through new employment or self employment, (iv) full vesting of his equity awards inself-employment. In the event ofthat such termination occurs within 12 months afterthe 12-month period commencing on a change in control (as defined in our 2009 stock incentive plan), then the base salary amount described above shall be paid to him in a single lump sum, the bonus amount described above shall not be pro-rated, and (v)in addition to such cash severance payment, 100% of specified relocation expenses following termination.his then-outstanding stock options and other equity awards will become vested and exercisable, as applicable, pursuant to the terms of the applicable equity award agreements.

These severance payments and benefits are subject to Mr. RoddyHickey executing, delivering and not revoking a release of claims in favor of our company.

Estimated Current Value of Post-Employment Severance Benefits

The following table shows estimated payments that would be made to each named executive officer in the event of a termination of employment under various termination situations, assuming the applicable termination event occurred on December 31, 2010. The table shows the actual severance benefits received by Mr. Brunette as a result of the termination of his employment effective December 31, 2010.2013.

 

Executive

  Death ($)  Termination for Good
Reason or Without
Cause – No Change in
Control ($)
  Termination for Good
Reason or Without Cause
– Change in Control ($)

Matthew J. Desch

  $607,500(1)  $1,294,028(2)  $1,294,028(3)

Thomas J. Fitzpatrick

   —      714,816(4)  714,816 - 1,114,816(5)

Eric H. Morrison

   —      385,938(6)  385,938(6)

John S. Brunette

   —      798,422(7)  —  

Gregory C. Ewert

   —      664,824(8)  664,824(9)

John M. Roddy

   —      593,768(10)  593,768(11)

Executive

      Death ($)      Termination for Good
Reason or Without
Cause – No Change in
Control ($)
  Termination for Good
Reason or Without Cause –
Change in Control ($)
 

Matthew J. Desch

   458,400(1)  1,627,484(2)  2,713,456(3)

Thomas J. Fitzpatrick

   —      836,746(4)  1,262,423(5)

S. Scott Smith

   —      701,226(4)  1,103,681(6)

Bryan J. Hartin

   —      435,248(7)   435,248(8) 

Thomas D. Hickey

   —      453,349(7)   831,155(8) 

 

(1)

Consists ofRepresents a pro rata bonus.

(2)

Consists of (a) 1218 months of base salary paid in equal installments on our company’s normal payroll schedule; and (b) annuala pro rata bonus at target levelbased on actual achievement, paid in equal installments on our company’s normal payroll schedule;schedule over a period of 12 months following separation, except that any amounts payable on such schedule prior to the date we determine actual performance shall be paid in a lump sum upon such determination; and (c) continuation of health benefits for employee and eligible dependents until earlier of (i) 12 months from separation, (ii) the expiration of COBRA eligibility, or (iii) the date the employee or his dependents become eligible for substantially equivalent health insurance coverage through new employment or self-employment.

(3)

Consists of (a) 1218 months of base salary paid in a single lump sumsum; (b) a pro rata bonus based on the 60th day following separation; (b) annual bonus at the target levelactual achievement, paid in a single lump sum on March 15 2011;of the year following the year in which separation occurs; (c) continuation of health benefits for employee and eligible dependents until earlier of (i) 12 months from separation, (ii) the expiration of COBRA eligibility, or (iii) the date the employee or his dependents become eligible for substantially equivalent health insurance coverage through new employment or self-employment; and (d) immediate vesting upon separation of all then-outstanding equity awards.

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(4)

Consists of (a) 12 months of base salary paid in equal installments on our company’s normal payroll schedule; (b) annual bonus at target level paid in equal installments on our company’s normal payroll schedule;schedule over the 12 months following separation; and (c) continuation of health benefits for employee and eligible dependents until earlier of (i) 12 months from separation, (ii) the expiration of COBRA eligibility, or (iii) the date the employee or his dependents become eligible for substantially equivalent health insurance coverage through new employment or self-employment.

(5)

Consists of (a) 12 months of base salary paid in a single lump sum on the 60th day following the separation; provided, however, that if the separation occurs before April 5, 2011 and following our company’s public announcement that the Board has authorized a sale of substantially all of the business or assets of our company for a per share price less than $15.00, the employee will receive 12 months of twice the base salary paid in a single lump sum on the 60th day following the separation;sum; (b) annual bonus at target level paid in a single lump sum a single lump sum; (b) a pro rata bonus based on actual achievement, paid in a single lump sum on March 15 2011;of the year following the year in which separation occur; (c) continuation of health benefits for employee and eligible dependents until earlier of (i) 12 months from separation, (ii) the expiration of COBRA eligibility, or

42.


(iii) the date the employee or his dependents become eligible for substantially equivalent health insurance coverage through new employment or self-employment; and (d) immediate vesting upon separation of all then-outstanding equity awards.

(6)

Consists of (a) 312 months of base salary paid in equal installments on our company’s normal payroll schedule andschedule; (b) a pro rataannual bonus based on actual achievement,at target level paid in a cash lump sum on March 15, 2011.

(7)

Consists of (a) 11 months of base salary paid in 22 equal installments on our company’s normal payroll schedule beginning January 15, 2011; (b) a lump sum payment of $387,000 payable on December 31, 2010; andschedule; (c) beginning January 31, 2011, cash payments made on the last day of each month equal to the applicable COBRA premiums for continuation of health benefits for employee and eligible dependents until earlier of (i) 12 months from separation, (ii) the durationexpiration of COBRA eligibility, or (iii) the period in whichdate the employee or his dependents become eligible for substantially equivalent health insurance coverage through new employment or self-employment; and his eligible dependents are enrolled in COBRA coverage or (ii) 11 months. All amounts above have been or will be paid less applicable taxes and withholdings.(d) immediate vesting upon separation of all then-outstanding equity awards.

(8)(7)

Consists of (a) 12 months of base salary paid in equal installments on our company’s normal payroll schedule; (b) a pro rata bonus based on actual achievement, paid in equal installments on our company’s normal payroll schedule over the remainder of the 12-month severance period from after the date our company determineswe determine actual performance and the amount of bonus that would have been earned based on such performance; and (c) continuation of health benefits for employee and eligible dependents until earlier of (i) 12 months from separation, (ii) the expiration of COBRA eligibility, or (iii) the date the employee or his dependents become eligible for substantially equivalent health insurance coverage through new employment or self-employment.

(9)(8)

Consists of (a) 12 months of base salary paid in equal installments on our company’s normal payroll schedule;a single lump sum; (b) annuala bonus based on actual achievement as though the executive were employed for the full year in which the termination occurred, paid in equal installments on our company’s normal payroll schedule over the remainder of the 12-month severance period from after the date our company determineswe determine actual performance and the amount of bonus that would have been earned based on such performance; (c) continuation of health benefits for employee and eligible dependents until earlier of (i) 12 months from separation, (ii) the expiration of COBRA eligibility, or (iii) the date the employee or his dependents become eligible for substantially equivalent health insurance coverage through new employment or self-employment; and (d) immediate vesting upon separation of all then-outstanding equity awards.

(10)

Consists of (a) 12 months of base salary paid in equal installments on our company’s normal payroll schedule; (b) a pro rata bonus based on actual achievement, paid in equal installments on our company’s normal payroll schedule over the remainder of the 12-month severance period from after the date our company determines actual performance and the amount of bonus that would have been earned based on such performance; (c) continuation of health benefits for employee and eligible dependents until earlier of (i) 12 months from separation, (ii) the expiration of COBRA eligibility, or (iii) the date the employee or his dependents become eligible for substantially equivalent health insurance coverage through new employment or self-employment; and (d) if the employee chooses to move back to Ontario, Canada from the Phoenix metro area within 12 months of separation, our company will pay, within 13 months from separation and upon receiving receipts and reasonably required documentation from the employee, the following: (i) reimbursement for reasonable costs incurred in moving the employee’s household goods from the Phoenix metro area to Ontario, (ii) reimbursement for the cost of one-way airfare for employee and his wife back to Ontario, and (iii) a cash lump sum equal to the employee’s U.S. and Canadian tax liability associated with (i) and (ii) above.

Severance Payments to Mr. Roddy

Mr. Roddy departed the company effective November 7, 2013. In November 2013, Mr. Roddy entered into a severance agreement with us, which included a release of all claims against us. Under this agreement, Mr. Roddy is entitled to severance benefits consisting of (i) an amount equal to 12 months of his current base salary, paid according to Iridium Satellite’s normal payroll schedule, (ii) an amount equal to the annual bonus for the current year that he would have earned had he remained employed through the bonus payment date, based on actual achievement of the designated performance metrics, pro-rated based on the number of days served in the current year, (iii) up to 12 months’ of premiums to continue his health insurance coverage under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985, and (iv) reimbursement of certain moving and related expenses if he relocates within 12 months following the date of his termination. We expect to pay Mr. Roddy approximately $483,017 in severance under this agreement, which amount is substantially the same as he would have received under his employment agreement.

(11)

Consists of (a) 12 months of base salary paid in equal installments on our company’s normal payroll schedule; (b) full-year annual bonus based on actual achievement, paid in equal installments on our company’s normal payroll schedule over the remainder of the 12-month severance period from after the date our company determines actual performance and the amount of bonus that would have been earned based on such performance; (c) continuation of health benefits for employee and eligible dependents until earlier of (i) 12 months from separation, (ii) the expiration of COBRA eligibility, or (iii) the date the employee or his dependents become eligible for substantially equivalent health insurance coverage through new employment or self-employment; (d) immediate vesting upon separation of all then-outstanding equity awards; and (e) if the employee chooses to move back to Ontario, Canada from the Phoenix metro area within 12 months of separation, our company will pay, within 13 months from separation and upon receiving receipts and

 

43.52


reasonably required documentation from the employee, the following: (i) reimbursement for reasonable costs incurred in moving employee’s household goods from the Phoenix metro area to Ontario, (ii) reimbursement for the cost of one-way airfare for employee and his wife back to Ontario, and (iii) a cash lump sum equal to the employee’s U.S. and Canadian tax liability associated with (i) and (ii) above.

Director Compensation for 2010

The table below provides summary information concerning compensation paid or accrued by us during 20102013 to or on behalf of our directors for services rendered during 2010. Mr.2013. Messrs. Desch, Fitzpatrick and Smith, who is aare named executive officerofficers in addition to being a director,directors, did not receive any separate compensation for service in histheir capacity as a director, and accordingly he isthey are not included in this table.

In late 2009 and again in 2011, the Compensation Committee engaged F.W. Cook to conduct a review of non-employee director compensation programs among our peer companies and make recommendations for our director compensation program. F.W. Cook’s report provided competitive analyses of director compensation programs using our peer group, a discussion of emerging trends in director compensation and recommendations for our program. F.W. Cook updated this study in the fall of 2013 for compensation decisions with respect to 2014 in connection with its review of the design and competitive positioning of our compensation programs for our executive officers and non-employee director.

Based on thisF.W. Cook’s 2009 report, we adopted a new compensation policy for non-employee directors effective January 1, 2010.2010 that has been reapproved annually by our Board. Under this policy, each non-employee director is eligible to receive an annual retainer of $140,000 for serving on the Board. In addition, an annual retainer of $50,000 is awarded for serving as the Chairman of the Board, an annual retainer of $20,000 is awarded for serving as the Chairman of the Audit Committee, an annual retainer of $15,000 is awarded for serving as the Chairman of the Compensation Committee, and an annual retainer of $7,500 is awarded for serving as the Chairman of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee.

At the annual election of each non-employee director, the $140,000 retainer for serving on the Board may be paid entirely in stock options, restricted stock or RSUs or some combination of these instruments and up to $50,000 in cash. In addition, at the election of the non-employee director, the retainers for serving as Chairman of the Board or chairman of a committee may be paid in either RSUs, cash or a combination of both.

Any cash component of the compensation is paid, and any equity component vests, on a quarterly basis. Until six months after the termination of the director’s service or upon a specified change in control of our company, if it occurs earlier, the directors may not sell any of these shares of restricted stock or stock acquired upon the exercise of these options and may not settle any of these RSUs.

The following table sets forth summary information concerning compensation paid or accrued by us during 2013 to or on behalf of our non-employee directors for services rendered during 2013.

Name

  Fees Earned
or Paid in Cash ($)
   Stock
Awards
($)(1)
   Option
Awards ($)(1)
  Total
($)
 

J. Darrel Barros

  $50,000    $90,000    $—  (2)  $140,000  

Thomas C. Canfield

   —       140,000     —  (2)   140,000  

Peter M. Dawkins

   49,000     91,000     —  (2)   140,000  

Terry L. Jones

   50,000     90,000     —  (2)   140,000  

Alvin B. Krongard

   —       —       140,000(2)   140,000  

Steven B. Pfeiffer

   64,000     49,000     42,000(2)   155,000  

Parker W. Rush

   59,000     101,000     —  (2)   160,000  

Scott L. Bok

   —       147,500     —  (2)   147,500  

Robert H. Niehaus

   75,000     115,000     —  (2)   190,000  

Name

  Fees Earned
or Paid in Cash ($)
   Stock
Awards
($)(1)
   Option
Awards ($)(1)(2)
   Total
($)
 

J. Darrel Barros(3)

   50,000    90,000     —      140,000  

Scott L. Bok(4)

   28,750    45,000     —      102,500  

Thomas C. Canfield

   —      140,000     —      140,000  

Brigadier Gen. Peter M. Dawkins (Ret.)

   49,000    91,000     —      140,000  

Alvin B. Krongard

   7,500    —      140,000     147,500  

Robert H. Niehaus

   75,000    73,462     41,538     190,000  

Admiral Eric T. Olson (Ret.)

   50,000    90,000     —      140,000  

Steven B. Pfeiffer

   65,000    90,000     —      155,000  

Parker W. Rush

   59,000    101,000     —      160,000  

 

(1)

Consists of a single grant to each director on January 4, 2013. These amounts represent the aggregate grant date fair values, computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718 but excluding estimated forfeitures, of restricted stock unit and option awards issued pursuant to the Non-Employee Director Compensation Plan.non-employee director compensation policy. The grant date fair value of these awards iswas calculated using the closing price of our common stock of $7.79$6.86 on the grant date of January 6, 20104, 2013 multiplied by the applicable number of shares granted to each

 

44.53


 

grantednon-employee director. Assumptions used in the calculation of those amounts are included in Note 2 to each non-employee director.our consolidated financial statements included in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013. These amounts do not correspond to the actual value that may be realized by the director upon vesting of such awards. Such awards vested in four equal quarterly installments on the last day of each calendar quarter during 2010.2013.

(2)

The aggregate number of option awards outstanding at December 31, 2010 to2013 and held by each non-employee director was as follows: 0 shares tofor Messrs. Barros, Canfield, Dawkins, Jones, Rush, BokOlson and Niehaus, 29,536Rush; 70,876 shares tofor Mr. Krongard andBok; 152,846 shares for Mr. Krongard; 8,861 shares tofor Mr. Pfeiffer.

The following table sets forth information relating to options granted to our non-employee directors during 2010.

Name

  Option
Grant
Date(1)
   Number of
Shares
Underlying
Option
Awards (#)
   Exercise
Price of
Option
Awards
($/Share)
   Grant Date
Fair Value
of Option
Awards
($)(2)
 

J. Darrel Barros

     —       —       —    

Thomas C. Canfield

     —       —       —    

Peter M. Dawkins

     —       —       —    

Terry L. Jones

     —       —       —    

Alvin B. Krongard

     29,536    $7.79    $140,000  

Steven B. Pfeiffer

     8,861    $7.79    $42,000  

Parker W. Rush

     —       —       —    

Scott L. Bok

     —       —       —    

Robert H. Niehaus

     —       —       —    

(1)

All options were granted on January 6, 2010.Pfeiffer; and 29,311 for Mr. Niehaus.

(2)(3)

The amounts in this column reflectEffective at the aggregate dollar amount of the accounting expense thatannual meeting, Mr. Barros will be recognized in 2010 and subsequent years for financial statement reporting purposes with respect to stock options granted in 2010. Pursuant to SEC rules, the amounts shown exclude the impact of estimated forfeitures related to service-based vesting conditions. Assumptions used in the calculation of these amounts are included in Note 2 tono longer serve on our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2010.Board.

45.


(4)

Mr. Bok’s term as a director expired on May 9, 2013.

TRANSACTIONSWITH RELATED PARTIES

RELATED-PERSON TRANSACTIONS POLICYAND PROCEDURES

In 2009, we adopted a written Related-Person Transactions Policy that sets forth our policies and procedures regarding the identification, review, consideration and approval or ratification of “related-persons transactions.” For purposes of our policy only, a “related-person transaction” is a transaction, arrangement or relationship, or any series of similar transactions, arrangements or relationships, in which we and any “related person” are participants involving an amount that exceeds $120,000. Transactions involving compensation for services provided to us as an employee, director, consultant or similar capacity by a related person are not covered by this policy. A related person is any executive officer, director, or more than 5% stockholder of us, including any of their immediate family members, and any entity owned or controlled by such persons.

Under the policy, where a transaction has been identified as a related-person transaction, management must present information regarding the proposed related-person transaction to the Audit Committee (or, where Audit Committee approval would be inappropriate, to another independent body of the Board) for consideration and approval or ratification. The presentation must include a description of, among other things, the material facts, the interests, direct and indirect, of the related persons, the benefits to us of the transaction and whether any alternative transactions were available. To identify related-person transactions in advance, we rely on information supplied by our executive officers, directors and certain significant stockholders. In considering related-person transactions, the Audit Committee takes into account the relevant available facts and circumstances including, but not limited to (a) the risks, costs and benefits to us, (b) the impact on a director’s independence in the event the related person is a director, immediate family member of a director or an entity with which a director is affiliated, (c) the terms of the transaction, (d) the availability of other sources for comparable services or products and (e) the terms available to or from, as the case may be, unrelated third parties or to or from employees generally. In the event a director has an interest in the proposed transaction, the director must recuse himself from the deliberations and approval. The policy requires that, in determining whether to approve, ratify or reject a related-person transaction, the Audit Committee consider, in light of known circumstances, whether the transaction is in, or is not inconsistent with, the best interests of us and our stockholders, as the Audit Committee determines in the good faith exercise of its discretion.

RELATED-PERSON TRANSACTIONS

We had no reportable related-person transactions during 2010.

HOUSEHOLDINGOF PROXY MATERIALS

The SEC has adopted rules that permit companies and intermediaries (e.g., brokers) to satisfy the delivery requirements for annual meeting materials with respect to two or more stockholders sharing the same address by delivering a single set of annual meeting materials addressed to those stockholders. This process, which is commonly referred to as “householding,” potentially means extra convenience for stockholders and cost savings for companies.

54


This year, a number of brokers with account holders who are our stockholders will be “householding”householding our proxy materials. A single set of annual meeting materials will be delivered to multiple stockholders sharing an address unless contrary instructions have been received from the affected stockholders. Once you have received notice from your broker that they will be “householding”householding communications to your address, “householding”householding will continue until you are notified otherwise or until you revoke your consent. If, at any time, you no longer wish to participate in “householding”householding and would prefer to receive a separate set of annual meeting materials, please notify your broker or us. Direct your written request to Iridium Communications Inc., Attention: Secretary, 1750 Tysons Boulevard, Suite 1400, McLean, VA 22102. Stockholders who currently receive multiple copies of the annual meeting materials at their addresses and would like to request “householding”householding of their communications should contact their brokers.

 

46.55


OTHER MATTERS

The Board of Directors knows of no other matters that will be presented for consideration at the annual meeting. If any other matter is properly presented at the meeting, your proxyholder (one of the individuals named on your proxy card) will vote your shares using his best judgment.

By Order of the Board of Directors

LOGO

Christian O’ConnorLOGO

Thomas D. Hickey

Secretary

April 1, 20118, 2014

A copy of our Annual Report to the Securities and Exchange Commission ofon Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 20102013 is available without charge upon written request to Iridium Communications Inc., Attention: Secretary, 1750 Tysons Boulevard, Suite 1400, McLean, VA 22102.

 

47.56


This proxy is solicited by the Board of Directors. You are cordially invited to attend the meeting in person. Whether or not you expect to attend the meeting, please complete, date, sign and return the enclosed proxy, or vote over the telephone or the Internet as instructed in these materials, as promptly as possible in order to ensure your representation at the meeting. Even if you have voted by proxy, you may still vote in person if you attend the meeting. Please note, however, that if your shares are held of record by a broker, bank or other nominee and you wish to vote at the meeting, you must obtain a proxy issued in your name from that record holder.

 

 

¨

¢

¨n

IRIDIUM COMMUNICATIONS INC.

1750 Tysons Boulevard, Suite 1400

McLean, Virginia 22102

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

To Be Held on May 4, 201122, 2014

The undersigned hereby appoints Thomas J. FitzpatrickD. Hickey and Christian O’Connor,Kathleen A. Morgan, and each of them, with full power of substitution and power to act alone, as proxies to vote all the shares of Common Stock which the undersigned would be entitled to vote if personally present and acting at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Iridium Communications Inc., to be held on Wednesday,Thursday, May 4, 201122, 2014 at 9:008:30 a.m. localEastern time at the offices of Iridium Communications Inc.The Ritz-Carlton Hotel at 17501700 Tysons Boulevard, Suite 1400, McLean, Virginia 22102, and at any adjournments or postponements thereof, as follows:

This proxy will be voted as directed. In the absence of contrary directions, this proxy will be voted FOR the election of each of the director nominees listed on the reverse side of this proxy, FOR the approval, on an advisory basis, of the compensation of our named executive officers, FOR the ratification of the appointment of Ernst & Young LLP as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2014, and in the discretion of the proxy holder(s) on any other matter that may properly come before the annual meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof.

(Continued and to be signed on the reverse side.)

 

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14475

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ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS OF

IRIDIUM COMMUNICATIONS INC.

May 4, 2011

PROXY VOTING INSTRUCTIONS

INTERNET - Access “www.voteproxy.com” and follow the on-screen instructions. Have your proxy card available when you access the web page, and use the Company Number and Account Number shown on your proxy card.

TELEPHONE - Call toll-free1-800-PROXIES(1-800-776-9437) in the United States or1-718-921-8500from foreign countries from any touch-tone telephone and follow the instructions. Have your proxy card available when you call and use the Company Number and Account Number shown on your proxy card.

COMPANY NUMBER

ACCOUNT NUMBER

Vote online/phone until 11:59 PM EST the day before the meeting.

MAIL - Sign, date and mail your proxy card in the envelope provided as soon as possible.

IN PERSON - You may vote your shares in person by attending the Annual Meeting.

Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the Stockholders Meeting to Be Held on

May 4, 2011 at 9:00 a.m. local time at 1750 Tysons Boulevard, Suite 1400, McLean, Virginia 22102

The proxy statement and annual report to stockholders are available at

http://www.amstock.com/ProxyServices/ViewMaterial.asp?CoNumber=15777

i22, 2014 PROXY VOTING INSTRUCTIONS INTERNET - Access “www.voteproxy.com’’ and follow the on-screen instructions or scan the QR code with your smartphone. Have your proxy card available when you access the web page. TELEPHONE - Call toll-free 1-800-PROXIES (1-800-776-9437) in the United States or 1-718-921-8500 from foreign countries from any touch-tone telephone and follow the instructions. Have your proxy card available when you call. Vote online/phone until 11:59 PM EST the day before the meeting. MAIL - Sign, date and mail your proxy card in the envelope provided as soon as possible. IN PERSON - You may vote your shares in person by attending the Annual Meeting. GO GREEN - e-Consent makes it easy to go paperless. With e-Consent, you can quickly access your proxy material, statements and other eligible documents online, while reducing costs, clutter and paper waste. Enroll today via www.amstock.com to enjoy online access. COMPANY NUMBER ACCOUNT NUMBER Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the Stockholders Meeting to Be Held on May 22. 2014 at 8:30 a.m. local time at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel at 1700 Tysons Boulevard. McLean. Virginia 22102 The proxy statement and annual report to stockholders are available at http://www.astproxyportal.com/ast/15777/ Please detach along perforated line and mail in the envelope providedIF If you are not voting via telephone or the Internet.i

¢    21030403000000000000    6

050411

21133000000000000000000006 052214 PLEASE SIGN, DATE AND RETURN PROMPTLY IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE. PLEASE MARK YOUR VOTE IN BLUE OR BLACK INK AS SHOWN HERE x1. Election of Directors: To elect the Board of Directors’ eleven nominees for director, each for a one-year term. NOMINEES: FOR ALL nominees Robert H. Niehaus Thomas C. Canfield WITHHOLD AUTHORITY Brigadier Gen. Peter M. Dawkins (Ret.) FOR all NOMINEES Matthew J. Desch Thomas J. Fitzpatrick for all except O Alvin B. Krongard (See instructions beltw) Admiral Eric T. Olson (Ret.) Steven B. Pfeiffer Parker W. Rush S. Scott Smith FOR AGAINST ABSTAIN To approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation of our named executive officers. To ratify the selection by the Board of Directors of Ernst & Young LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for our fiscal year ending December 31, 2014. To conduct any other business properly brought before the meeting. The record date for the annual meeting is April 1, 2014. Only stockholders of record at the close of business on that date may vote at the meeting or any adjoumment thereof. 2. Barry J. West INSTRUCTIONS: To withhold authority to vote for any individual nominee(s), mark “FOR ALL EXCEPT” and fill in the circle next to each nominee you wish to withhold, as shown here: Signature of Stockholder Date: Signature of Stockholder Date: To change the address on your account, please check the box at right and indicate your new address in the address space above. Please note that changes to the registered name(s) on the account may not be submitted via this method. Note: Please sign exactly as your name or names appear on this Proxy. When shares are held jointly, each holder should sign. When signing as executor, administrator, attoney, trustee or guardian, please give full title as such. If the signer is a corporation, please sign full corporate name by duly authorized officer, giving full title as such. If signer is a partnership, please sign in partnership name by authorized person.

FORAGAINSTABSTAIN


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ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS OF IRIDIUM COMMUNICATIONS INC. May 22, 2014 GO GREEN e-Consent makes it easy to go paperless. With e-Consent, you can quickly access your proxy material, statements and other eligible documents online, while reducing costs, clutter and paper waste. Enroll today via www.amstock.com to enjoy online access. Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the Stockholders Meeting to Be Held on May 22. 2014 at 8:30 a.m. local time at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel at 1700 Tysons Boulevard. McLean. Virginia 22102 The proxy statement and annual report to stockholders are available at http://www.astproxyportal.com/ast/15777/ Please sign, date and mail your proxy card in the envelope provided as soon as possible. Please detach along perforated line and mail in the envelope provided. 21133000000000000000 6 052514 PLEASE SIGN, DATE AND RETURN PROMPTLY IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE. PLEASE MARK YOUR VOTE IN BLUE OR BLACK INK AS SHOWN HERE 1. Election of Directors: To elect the Board of Directors’ eleven nominees for director, each for a one-year term. NOMINEES: FOR ALL NOMINEES Robert H. Niehaus Thomas C. Canfield WITHHOLD AUTHORITY Brigadier Gen. Peter M. Dawkins (Ret.) FOR all NOMINEES Matthew J. Desch Thomas J. Fitzpatrick Alvin B. Krongard Admiral Eric T. Olson (Ret.) Steven B. Pfeiffer Parker W. Rush FOR ALL EXCEPT (See instructions below) S. Scott Smith Barry J. Wfest FOR AGAINST ABSTAIN 2. To approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation of our named executive officers. 3. To ratify the selection by the Board of Directors of Ernst & Young LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for our fiscal year ending December 31, 2014. 4. To conduct any other business properly brought before the meeting. The record date for the annual meeting is April 1, 2014. Only stockholders of record at the close of business on that date may vote at the meeting or any adjoumment thereof. 2. INSTRUCTIONS: To withhold authority to vote for any individual nominee(s), mark “FOR ALL EXCEPT” and fill in the circle next to each nominee you wish to withhold, as shown here: To change the address on your account, please check the box at right and indicate your new address in the address space above. Please note that changes to the registered name(s) on the account may not be submitted via this method. Signature of Stockholder Date: Signature of Stockholder Date: Note: Please sign exactly as your name or names appear on this Proxy. When shares are held jointly, each holder should sign. When signing as executor, administrator, attorney, trustee or guardian, please give full title as such. If the signer is a corporation, please sign full corporate name by duly authorized officer, giving full title as such. If signer is a partnership, please sign in partnership name by authorized person.

    To elect the Board of Directors’ ten nominees for director, each for a one-year term.

2.  To approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation of our named executive officers.

¨¨¨
NOMINEES:

¨FOR ALL NOMINEES

¨ WITHHOLD AUTHORITY

FOR ALL NOMINEES

¨FOR ALL EXCEPT

      (See instructions below)

O  Robert H. Niehaus

O  J. Darrel Barros

O  Scott L. Bok

O  Thomas C. Canfield

O  Brigadier Gen. Peter M. Dawkins (Ret.)

O  Matthew J. Desch

O  Terry L. Jones

O  Alvin B. Krongard

O  Steven B. Pfeiffer

O  Parker W. Rush

1 YEAR2 YEARS3 YEARSABSTAIN

3.  To indicate, on an advisory basis, the preferred frequency of stockholder advisory votes on the compensation of our named executive officers.

¨¨¨¨
FORAGAINSTABSTAIN

4.  To ratify the selection by the Board of Directors of Ernst & Young LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for our fiscal year ending December 31, 2011.

¨

¨¨

5.  To conduct any other business properly brought before the meeting.

INSTRUCTIONS:   To withhold authority to vote for any individual nominee(s), mark“FOR ALL EXCEPT” and fill in the circle next to each nominee you wish to withhold, as shown here:  l

The record date for the annual meeting is March 23, 2011. Only stockholders of record at the close of business on that date may vote at the meeting or any adjournment thereof.
To change the address on your account, please check the box at right and indicate your new address in the address space above. Please note that changes to the registered name(s) on the account may not be submitted via this method.¨

Signature of Stockholder    Date:    Signature of Stockholder    Date:    

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Note: Please sign exactly as your name or names appear on this Proxy. When shares are held jointly, each holder should sign. When signing as executor, administrator, attorney, trustee or guardian, please give full title as such. If the signer is a corporation, please sign full corporate name by duly authorized officer, giving full title as such. If signer is a partnership, please sign in partnership name by authorized person.

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