UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

SCHEDULE 14A

Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of

the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Amendment No.                )

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☒    Definitive Proxy Statement
☐    Definitive Additional Materials
☐    Soliciting Material under §240.14a-12
Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

(Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter)

(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant)

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Date Filed:



LOGO


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LOGO

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

One Edwards Way

Irvine, California 92614

Phone: 949.250.2500

www.edwards.com

LOGO  

ew-20230327_g2.jpg

March 29, 2018

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation
One Edwards Way
Irvine, California 92614
Phone: 949.250.2500
www.edwards.com
ew-20230327_g3.jpg

March 28, 2023

Dear Fellow Stockholders:


On behalf of the Edwards Board of Directors, it is my pleasure to invite you to attend our 20182023 Annual Meeting of Stockholders. The meeting

After careful consideration and the completion of a rigorous succession process overseen by our Board, Edwards announced in December that I have made the decision to retire as CEO. Bernard Zovighian will assume the role of CEO effective as of our Annual Meeting. Bernard has a strong track record of success, previously leading our Transcatheter Mitral and Tricuspid Therapy (TMTT) business, and most recently serving as President of Edwards. During his career, he has launched breakthrough therapies for patients and developed deep management experience across multiple disciplines. We are working together closely, along with our Executive Leadership Team, to ensure a smooth transition.

I am proud of the immense contributions Edwards Lifesciences has made towards helping millions of patients around the world over my tenure, and I look forward to continuing the work we do for patients in the role of non-executive Chairman of our Board. I am retiring as CEO with confidence that, under Bernard’s leadership, our Company will continue to be defined by our "patients-first" mission and culture as well as a commitment to innovation and excellence that positions all stakeholders for an even brighter future.

While our business has grown and innovated over my tenure, our formula for success remains the same: strive for breakthrough innovation, be a leader in the work we do, and focus on the tremendous number of underserved patients with structural heart disease and the critically ill. Our evolution has been guided by our Credo and Aspirations, and I am confident our leadership team will continue to build long-term success from these values.

Despite a challenging environment over the past year, we grew as a business, met our commitments, and advanced our long-term strategy. Hospital staffing challenges and the impacts of COVID-19 created headwinds, but we made meaningful strides in approvals, trials and adoptions of our breakthrough technologies that create a record of long-term performance. We continue to outperform the market over the long-term, with total stockholder returns of 99% and 396% on five- and ten-year bases, respectively.

We look forward to reviewing our 2022 performance and our long-term growth strategy further at our Annual Meeting, which will be held in-person at our corporate headquarters, located at One Edwards Way, Irvine, California 92614 and by webcast, beginning at 10:00 a.m. PT on Thursday, May 17, 2018,11, 2023. The webcast, a replay and a transcript of the Annual Meeting will be available at 10:00 a.m., PT. Registration will begin at 9:00 a.m.

http://ir.edwards.com.


Details of the business to be conducted at the Annual Meeting are included in the attached Notice of 20182023 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and Proxy Statement. Stockholders may also may access the Notice of 20182023 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and the Proxy Statement via the Internet atwww.edwards.com.

I www.edwards.com.


Thank you for your continued support of Edwards. We look forward to your attendance at this year’s Annual Meeting.

Sincerely,
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Michael A. Mussallem
Chairman of the Board and
Chief Executive Officer






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Dear Fellow Stockholders:

On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to thank you for your continued support of Edwards.

Choosing the right leadership for Edwards is one of the Board’s primary responsibilities. As we previously announced, we are pleased that Bernard Zovighian will be Edwards’ next CEO following Mike Mussallem’s retirement as our CEO. Mike will move to the role of non-executive Chairman, as of the Annual Meeting. On behalf of the Board, I would like to recognize Mike’s dedicated, focused and valuable leadership over many years of long-term growth and innovation, and we look forward to his continued leadership in the role of Chairman of the Board.
Our recent leadership changes reflect the Board’s long-term approach to succession planning. As an internal candidate, Bernard has demonstrated his alignment with Edwards’ patient focused innovation strategy and also his deep operational expertise, having run both the opportunitySurgical and TMTT global businesses during his eight years at Edwards. We look forward to discussworking with you our performance in 2017, which was a year of continued strong results, progress on our strategic initiativesBernard to continue to drive Edwards’ success, growth and active engagement by our Board.innovation. I am proud thatalso honored to continue my service as Lead Independent Director, working closely with Mike as non-executive Chairman and Bernard as CEO. As a Board, we continuedbelieve this leadership structure provides the Company with robust oversight and guidance as we look toward our focus on regularly communicating with our stockholders, and welcome further discussion at the annual meeting.

2017 Performance

Our company finished the year strong with 16 percent growth in sales. Our growth in 2017 was driven by clinician and patient preferences for our innovative therapies, and we are positioned well for 2018 and beyond because of our continued investments in our technology pipeline and infrastructure. We expect to achieve a number of important milestones this year to support progress in the development of transformative therapies across all of our product lines, and we are focused on staying at the forefront by creating strong evidence for promising new therapies for the patients we serve.

Commitment to our Stockholders

next chapter.


Our Board is comprised of membersdiverse and deeply qualified directors that are well-positioned to oversee Edwards’ long-term strategy. Our comprehensive director evaluation and refreshment processes ensure that we have the right mix of skills, experience, tenure, and diversity. Annual self- and peer-evaluations, along with balancedone-on-one feedback sessions with each director, ensure our Board’s and diverse skillsets and experiences whoCommittees’ efficacy. I am confident that our Board nominees collectively possess the expertise to ensure effectiveneeded for robust oversight of Edwards and its long-term strategy.

At Edwards, we are defined by how we serve others in our corporate strategymulti-stakeholder model, from patients to generate stockholder value. In addition,stockholders. As part of this commitment, our Board proactively engagescontinued a robust stockholder engagement program in 2022, with stockholders and has historically taken action in response to stockholder feedback, to align our corporate governance practices with our stockholders’ interests.

In addition to our routine investor relations efforts, since our 2017 Annual Meeting, we reached outoutreach to stockholders representing more than 55 percentnearly 55% of shares outstanding. I enjoy participating in many of these outreach calls and ensure that feedback gathered during these meetings informs our outstanding shares to discuss corporate governance, executive compensation, sustainability, and other topics of prime importance to stockholders. Our Board values the insights we gain from these engagements, and we are committed to ensuring our corporate governance is aligned with stockholder perspectives.

Stockholder feedback is an important factor in the Board’s decision-making process. This input was integral to the evolution of Edwards’ board and corporate governance practices over the past few years, including the decision to reduce the threshold for stockholders’ right to call special meetings and the adoption of proxy access.

We sincerely appreciate your continued interest in Edwards, as well as your input and support. discussions.


Thank you for your ongoing support and we look forward to seeing you at the Annual Meeting.

for being an Edwards Lifesciences stockholder.



Sincerely,

LOGO

Michael A. Mussallem

Chairman of the Board and

Chief Executive Officer

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Martha H. Marsh
Lead Independent Director





EDWARDS LIFESCIENCES CORPORATION
NOTICE OF 20182023 ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

Date and Time:TimeLocationPlace:Record Date
May 17, 201811, 2023Edwards Lifesciences CorporationMarch 13, 2023
10:00 a.m. PTOne Edwards Way, Irvine, CA 92614


Matters to be voted on at the 20182023 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “Annual Meeting”):

Proposal 1.

Election of eight director nominees named in the attached Proxy Statement to serve until our next annual meeting of stockholders and until their respective successors are duly elected and qualified

Proposal 2.

Approval, on an advisory basis, of the named executive officer compensation disclosed in the attached Proxy Statement

Proposal 3.

Ratification of the appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2018

Proposal 4.

A stockholder proposal, if properly presented at the Annual Meeting

Proposal 5.

Any other business that may properly come before the Annual Meeting or any postponement or adjournment of the meeting

1.    Election of nine director nominees named in the attached Proxy Statement to serve until our next annual meeting of stockholders and until their respective successors are duly elected and qualified
2.Approval, on an advisory basis, of the named executive officer compensation disclosed in the attached Proxy Statement
3.Approval, on an advisory basis, of the frequency of future advisory votes on the compensation of our named executive officers
4.Ratification of the appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2023
5.Approval of an amendment to the Company's Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation to provide for exculpation of officers as permitted by the Delaware General Corporation Law
6.Consider a stockholder proposal, if properly presented at the Annual Meeting
7.Other business as may properly come before the Annual Meeting, and any postponement or adjournment of the Annual Meeting
The Proxy Statement accompanying this notice describes each of the items of business in more detail.

Record Date:If you were a holder of record of the common stock of Edwards Lifesciences Corporation at the close of business on March 22, 2018,13, 2023, you are entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the Annual Meeting.

Your vote is very important. Please submit your proxy or voting instructions as soon as possible to ensure that your shares will be represented at the Annual Meeting, whether or not you expect to attend the Annual Meeting.


How to Vote Your Shares

LOGO

Via the Internet

Visit the website listed on your proxy card, notice, or voting instruction form

LOGO

By Phone

Call the phone number listed on your proxy card or voting instruction form

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By Internet
Go to www.proxypush.com/EWand follow the instructions
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By Telephone
Call 1-866-892-1604 and follow the instructions
LOGO
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By Mail

Complete, sign, date, and return your proxy card or voting instruction form in the envelope provided

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LOGO

In Person

Attend our Annual Meeting and vote by ballot

By Order of the Board of Directors,

LOGO

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Linda J. Park

Senior Vice President, Associate General Counsel, and Corporate Secretary

March 29, 2018

28, 2023

Important notice regarding the availability of proxy materials for our

2018 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 17, 2018:

Our Proxy Statement and 2017 Annual Report to stockholders are available on the Internet at

www.proxyvote.com.


Important notice regarding the availability of proxy materials for
our 2023 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 11, 2023:
Our Proxy Statement and 2022 Annual Report to stockholders are available on the Internet at
www.proxydocs.com/EW.
Edwards Lifesciences Corporation   One Edwards Way, Irvine, CA 92614     www.edwards.com









TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

Page
i

GENERAL MEETING AND VOTING INFORMATION

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MATTERS

4

PROPOSAL 1 – ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

4

11

Corporate Governance Highlights

11

Active Stockholder Engagement Program

11

Director Independence

12

Corporate Governance Guidelines

12

Board Leadership Structure

12

BoardLead Independent Director’s Role In Risk Oversight

and Responsibilities
13

Risk Oversight

Meetings of theour Board

14

Board Composition

14

Committees of theour Board

14

Succession Planning

16

Communications with theour Board

of Directors
16

Corporate Social Responsibility

16

18

Director Compensation Table – 2017

2022
18

Retainers and Fees

19

Nonemployee Directors Stock Incentive Program

19

Deferral Election Program

19

Directors’ Stock Ownership Guidelines and Holding Requirement

20

Expense Reimbursement Policy

20

Outstanding Nonemployee Director Equity Awards

21

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

22

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION

23

Executive Officers

23

Compensation Discussion and Analysis

25

Executive Summary

25

Compensation Philosophy and Objectives for NEOs

28

Compensation Process

29

Independent Compensation Consultant

29

Use of Competitive Data

30

Elements of Compensation

31

Stock Ownership Guidelines and Holding Requirement

39

Prohibition on Pledging and Hedging

Market Timing of Equity Awards
Benefits and Perquisites39
Deferred Compensation
Employment and Post-Termination Agreements
Tax Implications – Policy Regarding Section 162(m)



Page

Market Timing of Equity Awards

Executive Compensation
39

Benefits and Perquisites

39

Deferred Compensation

40

Employment andPost-Termination Agreements

40

Tax Implications – Policy Regarding Section 162(m)

41

2018 Compensation Decisions

41

Compensation and Governance Committee Report

41

Executive Compensation

42

Summary Compensation Table

Fiscal Year 2020-2022
42

Grants ofPlan-Based Awards in Fiscal Year 2017

2022
44

Non-Equity Incentive Plan Awards

44

Equity Incentive Plan Awards

45

Outstanding Equity Awards at 20172022 FiscalYear-End

48

Option Exercises and Stock Vested in Fiscal Year 2017

2022
50

Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plans

50

Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control

51

CEO Pay Ratio

54

55

EQUITY COMPENSATION PLAN INFORMATION

57

AUDIT MATTERS

58

58

Fees Paid to Principal Accountants

58

Pre-Approval of Services

59

Audit Committee Report

59

OTHER MATTERS AND BUSINESS

60

60

Additional Information

64

Additional Information

64

Related Persons Transactions

64

Indemnification of Directors and Officers

64

64

Annual Report onForm 10-K

65

Delivery of the Proxy Materials

A-1
65A-3





This Proxy Statement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.1934, as amended. We intend the forward-looking statements contained in this Proxy Statement to be covered by the safe harbor provisions of such Acts. AllSome statements other than statements of historical fact in this Proxy Statement or referred to or incorporated by reference into this Proxy Statement are “forward-looking statements” for purposes of these sections. These statements include, among other things, the continued impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business, any predictions, of earnings, revenues, expenses, or other financial items, plans, oropinions, expectations, with respect to development activities, clinical trials, or regulatory approvals, any statements of plans, strategies, and objectives of management for future operations, any statements concerning our future operations, financial conditions, and prospects, and any statements of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing.foregoing relating to our current and future business and operations, including, but not limited to, financial matters, development activities, clinical trials and regulatory matters, manufacturing and supply operations, and product sales and demand. These statements can sometimes be identified by the use of the forward-looking words, such as “may,” “believe,” “will,” “expect,” “project,” “estimate,” “should,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “goal,” “continue,” “seek,” “pro forma,” “forecast,” “intend,” “guidance,” “optimistic,” “aspire,” “confident,” other forms of these words, or similar words or expressions or the negative thereof. InvestorsStatements of past performance, efforts or results about which inferences or assumptions may be made can also be forward-looking statements and are cautioned not to unduly rely onindicative of future performance or results; these statements can be identified by the use of words such forward-looking statements.as “preliminary,” “initial,” “diligence,” “industry-leading,” “compliant,” “indications,” or “early feedback” or other forms of these words or similar words or expressions or the negative thereof. These forward-looking statements are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause our results or future business, financial condition, results of operations, or performance to differ materially from our historical results or experiences or those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements contained in this Proxy. SeeProxy Statement. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: our success in developing new products and avoiding manufacturing and quality issues; clinical trial or commercial results or new product approvals and therapy adoption; the impact of public health crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic; the impact of domestic and global economic conditions; competitive dynamics in the markets in which we operate; our reliance on vendors, suppliers and other third parties; damage, failure or interruption of our information technology systems; consolidation in the healthcare industry; our ability to protect our intellectual property; our compliance with applicable regulations; our exposure to product liability claims; use of our products in unapproved circumstances; changes to reimbursement for our products; the impact of currency exchange rates; unanticipated actions by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and other regulatory agencies; changes to tax laws; unexpected impacts or expenses of litigation or internal or government investigations and other risks listed in Edwards’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 20172022, and our othersubsequent reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, to which your attention is directed. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and we do not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date of the statement. If we do update or correct one or more of these statements, investors and others should not conclude that we will make additional updates or corrections.


Edwards, Edwards Lifesciences, the stylized E logo, ALLIANCE, EARLY TAVR, INSPIRIS, INSPIRIS RESILIA, KONECT, KONECT RESILIA, MITRIS, MITRIS RESILIA, PASCAL, PASCAL Precision, PROGRESS, RESILIA, SAPIEN, SAPIEN 3, SAPIEN 3 Ultra, and SAPIEN X4 are trademarks of Edwards Lifesciences Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.




PROXY SUMMARY

This summary contains highlights about Edwards Lifesciences Corporation and theits upcoming 2023 Annual Meeting.Meeting of Stockholders (the “Annual Meeting”). This summary does not contain all of the information that you should consider. Please read the entire Proxy Statement prior to voting.

STOCKHOLDER VOTING MATTERS(Page 1)

  Proposal
Board’s Voting
Recommendation

2023 Annual Meeting of Stockholders

  Proposal 1:

Election of Directors

FOR

         each nominee

Date and Time:

Time

LocationRecord Date
May 17, 2018

11, 2023

Edwards Lifesciences CorporationMarch 13, 2023
10:00 a.m. PT

One Edwards Way, Irvine, CA 92614If you were a holder of record of the common stock of Edwards at the close of business on March 13, 2023, you are entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the Annual Meeting.
STOCKHOLDER VOTING MATTERS (Page 1)
ProposalBoard’s Voting
Recommendation
Proposal 1:Election of Directors
ew-20230327_g12.jpg    FOR
each nominee
Proposal 2:Advisory Vote to Approve Named Executive Officer Compensation
ew-20230327_g13.jpgFOR

Place:

Edwards Lifesciences

One Edwards Way

Irvine, CA 92614

Proposal 3:Advisory Vote to Approve Frequency of Future Advisory Votes on Named Executive Officer CompensationONE YEAR
Proposal 3:4:

Ratification of Appointment of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

ew-20230327_g13.jpgFOR

Proposal 4:

5:
Approval of Amendment of the Certificate of Incorporation to Provide for Exculpation of Officers

Advisory Vote on a

ew-20230327_g12.jpg    FOR
Proposal 6:Stockholder Proposal Regarding Action By Written Consent

Independent Board Chairman Policy

AGAINST

Record Date:

March 22, 2018


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement i


BOARD OF DIRECTOR NOMINEES(Page 4)

All eight8)


Our Board of our current directors are standingDirectors (our “Board”) has selected the following nine persons as its nominees for election for aone-year term to our Board at the Annual Meeting. The following chart provides key information on each of our current directors.

               

Committee Memberships

    
  Name  Age  Director
Since
  Independent Audit
Committee**
  

Compensation

and Governance
Committee

  

Other Public  

Company  
Boards  

 

Kieran T. Gallahue

Former Chairman and CEO

CareFusion Corporation

  54  2015  Yes 

LOGO

 

    1

Leslie S. Heisz

Former Managing Director

Lazard Frères & Co

  57  2016  Yes 

LOGO

 

    1

William J. Link, Ph.D.

Managing Director and
Co-Founder Versant Ventures

  71  2009  Yes   LOGO

 

  2

Steven R. Loranger

Former Chairman, President, and
CEO ITT Corporation

  66  2016  Yes   LOGO

 

  1

Martha H. Marsh

Retired President and CEO
Stanford Hospital & Clinics

  69  2015  Yes   LOGO

 

  2

Michael A. Mussallem

Chief Executive Officer and Chairman

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

  65  2000  No     0

Wesley W. von Schack*

Chairman

AEGIS Insurance Services, Inc.

  73  2010  Yes 

LOGO

 

    1

Nicholas J. Valeriani

Former CEO, West Health Institute
Former EVP, Johnson & Johnson

  61  2014  Yes    LOGO

 

  

1

*

Presiding Director

**

Each member is an audit committee financial expert

director nominees as of the date of this Proxy Statement. Other than Bernard Zovighian, who will succeed Mike Mussallem as the CEO of Edwards and has been nominated as a director of our Board in connection with his appointment as CEO at the Annual Meeting, each director nominee was elected as a director at our annual meeting held on May 3, 2022, to hold office until the next annual meeting.


    
Committee Memberships
 
 
       
NameAgeDirector
Since
IndependentAudit
Committee*
Compensation
and Governance
Committee
Other Public
Company
Boards
Kieran T. Gallahue
Former Chairman and CEO,
CareFusion Corporation
592015Yes
ew-20230327_g14.jpg
 1
Leslie S. Heisz
Former Managing Director,
Lazard Frères & Co
622016Yes
ew-20230327_g15.jpg
 2
Paul A. LaViolette
Managing Partner and
COO, SV Health Investors LLC
652020Yes 
ew-20230327_g14.jpg
0
Steven R. Loranger
Former Chairman, President and
CEO ITT Corporation
712016Yes
ew-20230327_g16.jpg
 1
Martha H. Marsh**
Retired President and CEO,
Stanford Hospital & Clinics
742015Yes 
ew-20230327_g14.jpg
1
Michael A. Mussallem
Chief Executive Officer+ and Chairman,
Edwards Lifesciences Corporation
702000No  0
Ramona Sequeira
President of the U.S. Business Unit and
Global Portfolio Commercialization,
Takeda Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc.
572020Yes
ew-20230327_g17.jpg
 0
Nicholas J. Valeriani
Former CEO, West Health Institute
Former EVP, Johnson & Johnson
662014Yes
ew-20230327_g18.jpg
1
Bernard J. Zovighian
President and incoming CEO,
Edwards Lifesciences Corporation
55NominatedNo0
*    Each member of our Audit Committee is an audit committee financial expert
**    Lead Independent Director
C   =    Chairperson


+    As previously disclosed, Mr. Mussallem will retire from his position as Chief Executive Officer of Edwards at the Annual Meeting. Accordingly, if elected at the Annual Meeting, Mr. Mussallem will serve as non-executive Chairman of the Board.

LOGO     


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation |2018I2023 Proxy Statement    i

ii



Our Board of Directors (our “Board”) strives to maintain a highly independent, balanced and diverse setgroup of directors that collectively possesspossesses the expertise to ensure effective oversight of management.

Our director nominees are:

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LOGOLOGO
Diverse Range of Qualifications and Skills Represented by Our Directors
Medical Technology
Industry Experience
International Executive
Experience
LOGOCorporate Governance
LOGO
Regulatory and
Compliance
Senior LeadershipOperations Management
Innovation and TechnologyRisk ManagementRisk Oversight
Finance and Financial
Industry
Human Capital ResourcesFinancial Reporting
IT and CybersecurityCorporate StrategyCorporate Responsibility



Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement iii


CORPORATE GOVERNANCE HIGHLIGHTS(Page 11)

13)

Our commitment to good corporate governance practices and accountability to stockholders is described below.

LOGO

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WHAT WE DO

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Annual election

Lead Independent Director provides strong independent leadership of directors

our Board

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Majority vote standard in uncontested elections, with

Independent Board, all but Mr. Mussallem, who will retire as our Chief Executive Officer at the Annual Meeting, and Mr. Zovighian, who will be appointed as our CEO and nominated to be a director resignation policy

of our Board at the Annual Meeting

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Special stockholdersstockholders’ meetings can be called by stockholders owning at least 15% of our outstanding shares

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Proxy access right to permit a stockholder, or a group of up to 30 stockholders, owning at least 3% of our outstanding shares continuously for at least 3 years, to nominate up to the greater of 2 directors or 20% of our Board for inclusion in our annual meeting proxy statement

ew-20230327_g12.jpg

Independent Board, all but our Chief Executive Officer

Annual election of directors

ew-20230327_g13.jpg
Ongoing Board refreshment and director skill set aligned with corporate strategy
ew-20230327_g12.jpg

Majority vote standard in uncontested elections, with director resignation policy
ew-20230327_g13.jpg
Commitment to Board diversity
ew-20230327_g12.jpg
Executive session of independent directors held at each regularly scheduled Board and committee meeting

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Independent Presiding Director provides strong independent leadership of our Board

Retirement policy for directors

ew-20230327_g12.jpg

Annual Board and committee self-evaluations and peer reviews

ew-20230327_g13.jpg
Encourage continuing director education with designated annual reimbursement policy
ew-20230327_g12.jpg

Formal director orientation and continuing education program

ew-20230327_g13.jpg
Nonemployee directors expected to own Edwards’ stock equal to $500,000 and also hold 50% of net shares received upon vesting or exercise of equity awarded after 2011awards until Board service ends

ew-20230327_g12.jpg

Senior management succession planning regularly considered at each regularly scheduled Board meeting

meetings

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Active stockholder outreach and engagement

ew-20230327_g12.jpg

Robust code of ethics in our Global Business Practice Standards

ew-20230327_g13.jpg

Corporate sustainability report

Active Board oversight of enterprise risks and risk management

ew-20230327_g12.jpg
Dedicated Board oversight and annual disclosure of our sustainability practices
ew-20230327_g13.jpg

“Clawback” policy for performance-based compensation

LOGO

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WHAT WE DON’T DO

No pledging or hedging of Edwards’ securities by members of our Board, employees with a title of “vice president” equivalent or above, and any other employees designated as “Designated Insiders” under our insider trading policy

No stockholder rights plan (“poison pill”)

No supermajority voting provisions in the Company’sour organizational documents




ii        LOGO     

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation |    2018I2023 Proxy Statement

iv



ACTIVE STOCKHOLDER ENGAGEMENT PROGRAM(Page 11)

Edwards’ Board and management are committed to engaging with Edwards’ stockholders and incorporating feedback into their decision-making processes. Throughout the year, our CEO, CFO, and Vice President of Investor Relations meet by phone and face-to-face with current and prospective stockholders to discuss Edwards’ strategy, business, and financial results. Our Corporate Secretary and Investor Relations teams, together with other members of management and, from time to time, our Presiding Director, engage stockholders to solicit their views and feedback on corporate governance, compensation and other related matters and to discuss the issues that matter most to our stockholders. Stockholder feedback is shared with the Board and its committees, which enhances our corporate governance practices, facilitates future dialogue between stockholders and the Board and provides additional transparency to our stockholders. Since the 2017 Annual Meeting, our Corporate Secretary and Investor Relations teams contacted our top stockholders representing more than 55% of our outstanding shares. In this engagement, we received feedback from stockholders on a range of issues including corporate governance, compensation, and sustainability.

13)

Edwards’ Board and management are committed to engaging with our stockholders and incorporating feedback into their decision-making processes. Throughout the year, our CEO, CFO, and Vice President of Investor Relations meet, by phone and in-person, with current and prospective stockholders to discuss Edwards’ strategy, business, and financial results. Our CFO, Corporate Secretary, and Senior Vice President of Investor Relations, and our Lead Independent Director, when appropriate, engage stockholders to solicit their views and feedback on issues that matter most to our stockholders, including, among other things, corporate governance, compensation, sustainability, corporate social responsibility, human capital management, diversity, inclusion and belonging, succession planning, and other related matters. Stockholder feedback is shared with our Board and its committees, which enhances our corporate governance practices, facilitates future dialogue between stockholders and our Board, and provides additional transparency to our stockholders. Since our 2022 annual meeting of stockholders, we contacted our top stockholders representing approximately 55% of our outstanding shares and engaged with stockholders representing approximately 33% of our outstanding shares.
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Over time, we have amended our Charter and Bylaws to adopt various stockholder rights andor taken other actions to align our corporate governance practices with our stockholders’ interests.

Topic

Action Taken in Response to Stockholder Feedback

Lead Independent
Director
Responsibilities
Expanded the role of the Presiding Director position, and, in light of the additional responsibilities, designated the position, Lead Independent Director

Proxy Access

  Adopted proxy access at 3% and 3 year ownership and holding period duration thresholds

Rightto Call
Special Meetings

Amended our Bylaws to permit stockholders to call a special meeting
In response to a non-binding stockholder proposal requesting the right to act by written consent, engaged with stockholders representing over 50% 50% of shares then outstanding to better understand investor views and, in response to feedback received, reduced the minimum ownership threshold to call a special meeting from 25% to 15%

Proxy Access
Amended our Bylaws to permit holders of 25% of outstanding shares to call a special meeting

provide for proxy access at 3% and 3-year ownership and holding period duration thresholds
Disclosure of
EEO-1 Data
Disclosed our EEO-1 data and relevant infographics on our website

DeclassifiedBoard

Amended our Charter to eliminate the classified board

No Supermajority

Voting

Amended our Charter to eliminate supermajority voting

Poison Pill

Did not renew poison pill when it expired in March 2010

Majority Voting

inDirector

Elections

Amended our Bylaws to provide for majority voting in uncontested director elections


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement v


CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY(Page 16)

Our Board recognizes (Page 20)

At Edwards, our commitment to corporate responsibility and sustainability is foundational, and expressed in the importancewords of our sustainability initiativesCredo: “Through our actions, we will become trusted partners with customers, colleagues and patients—creating a community unified in its mission to improve the need to provide effective oversight.quality of life around the world. Our results will benefit customers, patients, employees and shareholders.” Our Compensation and Governance Committee of our Board (our “Compensation and Governance Committee”) maintains formal oversight responsibilities for our Sustainability program, with regular discussions at meetings of the full Board. More details on our sustainability approach and performance can be found in our Sustainability Report posted on our website at www.edwards.com/sustainability.
We have established a robust framework for ensuring that our efforts are properly managed and implemented, including the establishment of a cross-functional Sustainability Council which includes leaders from across the organization.

We receivedwere recognized by numerous recognitionsorganizations for our sustainability and environmental responsibilities practices in 2017,2022, some of which are highlighted below:

Ethisphere’s    For the third consecutive year, Edwards appeared on Barron’s fifth annual list of the 100 Most Sustainable Companies in the United States. Significant performance indicators included increased efforts to mitigate our impact on the environment, as well as initiatives undertaken to bolster employee welfare, community health and customer satisfaction.

    Edwards was named as one of the Management Top 250 by the Wall Street Journal in partnership with the Drucker Institute for the sixth year in a row—listed #87 out of 902 companies ranked according to their overall effectiveness of “doing the right things well.” The evaluation aims to recognize firms that are particularly good at balancing a wide range of competing management priorities. Edwards achieved high marks in all five dimensions of corporate performance: Customer Satisfaction, Employee Engagement and Development, Innovation, Social Responsibility and Financial Strength.
    For the second consecutive year, Edwards was recognized as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies;

Top Female-Friendly Companies. Forbes ranked Edwards #156 out of 400 companies included in the list. Forbes’ partner, Statista, surveyed 85,000 women in 36 countries. Honorees were selected in part due to their competitive pay and strong career advancement opportunities, along with flexible work arrangements, which are considered critical to correct gender inequities. They also assessed female representation at the executive and board levels.

First time•    Edwards was again a constituent of theDJSI ESG World and North America IndexIndices—the Dow Jones Sustainability North AmericaWorld index tracks the performance of the top 20%10% of the 6002,500 largest United States and Canadian companies in the S&P Global Broad Market Index that lead the field in sustainability;

sustainability.

CPA-Zicklin Trendsetter from

    Edwards was recognized for its industry leadership on Environmental issues by Forbes and JUST Capital. This is an evaluation of the 2017 CPA-Zicklin Indexlargest publicly traded U.S. companies, which are ranked on the issues Americans care about most, according to JUST Capital's polling of Corporate Political Disclosure and Accountability—companies in the S&P 500 are scored for their corporate political policies, disclosure and oversight transparency; and

American public.


LOGO

    For the seventh consecutive year, Edwards Lifesciences Corporation    |    2018 Proxy Statement    iii


Constituentwas honored as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies® by the Ethisphere Institute, a globalMSCI ACWI ESG Leaders Index—index provides exposure leader in defining and advancing the standards of ethical business practices. Honorees represent the individuals and leaders diligently working to build world-class programs and advance corporate cultures defined by integrity and those companies with high ESG performance relativecontributing to their sector peersbroader societal imperatives and consists of largethe greater good. In 2023, 135 honorees were recognized, spanning 19 countries and mid-cap companies across 23 Developed Markets and 24 Emerging Markets countries.

48 industries.

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION(Page 23)

26)


Executive Summary.Summary.    Edwards is the global leader in patient-focused medical innovations for structural heart disease and critical care monitoring. Driven by a passion to help patients, we partner with the world’s leading clinicians and researchers and invest in research and development (or “R&D”) to transform care for those impacted by structural heart disease or who require hemodynamic monitoring during surgery and in intensive care. Edwards Lifesciences has a proud history, six decades long, as a leader in these areas. Since our founder, Lowell Edwards, first dreamed of using engineering to address diseases of the human heart, we have steadily built a company on the premise of imagining, building, and realizing a better future for our patients.

hospital setting.

Pay-for-Performance Philosophy.    The Philosophy.    Our Compensation and Governance Committee of the Board (the “Compensation Committee”) strives to create apay-for-performance culture and strongly believes that executive compensation should be tied not only to performance, but also directly to the successful implementation of our long-term corporate strategy. As a direct result of our strategy, we have introduced new therapies such as transcatheter aortic valve replacement, rapid-deploymentnovel resilient surgical heart valves and noninvasive advanced hemodynamic monitoring, all while achievingmonitoring. Successfully managing our stated financial and operating objectives. Managing our business well in a challenging, highly regulated, dynamic environment requires talented and energetic leaders who champion our strategy and deliver on our commitments.




Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement vi


EDWARDS’ CORPORATE STRATEGY INFORMS PAY DESIGN

LOGO

2017

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2022Financial and Operating Performance.    Overall,Despite the outbreak of COVID-19 and macroeconomic headwinds through the 2022 fiscal year, we achieved outstandingcontinued to remain fully committed to our patient-focused innovation strategy, and our teams were relentless in doing the right thing for patients. Guided by our Credo, our priorities during the pandemic have been to protect the health and well-being of our employees, to continue to serve our patients, hospitals and clinical partners, and to support our communities.

As noted in the chart above, the financial component of our Company’s Annual Cash Incentive compensation was reintroduced for the 2022 year after having been suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our financial results and operating performance in 2017, exceeding2022 continued to be impacted by the pandemic. Procedure rates were highly variable around the globe, leading to a decline in sales compared to expectations. Treatments were delayed due to hospital prioritization of COVID-19 patients, hospital staffing shortages and patients deferring treatment. Although we saw recovery during 2022, we faced significant headwinds in the second and third quarters of 2022 due to hospital staffing shortages and surges in COVID-19 outbreaks globally. Despite the impact of the pandemic, 2022 was a year of significant milestones and investments for Edwards. Our total sales for fiscal year 2022 were $5.4 billion, an increase in underlying revenue growth for the year of approximately 8% over the prior year. We achieved approximately 12% growth in adjusted earnings per share while also increasing R&D by 5%.1 The significant increase in R&D and infrastructure investments in fiscal 2022 helped strengthen our goals for sales growth, net income growth and free cash flow. We also madelonger-term outlook.
Even with the challenges we faced during the global pandemic, we continued to make important progress on future advancements for patients.

Strong sales growthpatients:

    Invested in increasing disease and therapy awareness, pursued further therapy expansion, and advanced new technologies in transcatheter aortic valve replacement. We completed enrollment in EARLY TAVR, a pioneering pivotal trial studying the treatment of 16% was driven by:

Cliniciansevere aortic stenosis (AS) patients before their symptoms develop.  Separately, we initiated enrollment in our PROGRESS pivotal trial for moderate AS patients and patient preferenceswe received FDA approval for our innovativeALLIANCE pivotal trial to study our next generation TAVR technology, the SAPIEN X4 system;

    Achieved our significant 2022 milestones in transcatheter valvemitral and tricuspid therapies, includingas we continued to make meaningful progress on advancing our three key value drivers: a portfolio of pioneering therapies for patients, positive pivotal trial results to support approvals and adoption, and favorable real-world clinical outcomes;
1     “Underlying growth rate” and “adjusted earnings per share” are non-GAAP items. Refer to Appendix A for reconciliation to the best-in-class most directly comparable GAAP financial measures.

Edwards SAPIEN 3 transcatheter heart valve;

Lifesciences Corporation
I2023 Proxy Statement vii


Continued    Extended our leadership in surgical aortic valves through the continued adoption of our newest surgicaltechnologies, the INSPIRIS RESILIA aortic valve, therapy systems, Edwards INTUITY Elitethe KONECT RESILIA aortic tissue valved conduit, and INSPIRIS RESILIA; and

Broad usethe launch of our MITRIS RESILIA valve; and

    Advanced leadership in critical care technologies, includingwith the recently launched HemoSphere next-generationcontinued introduction of advanced monitoring platform.



iv        LOGO     Edwards Lifesciences Corporation    |    2018 Proxy Statement


Additionally, we continued to invest aggressively in our technology pipeline and infrastructure, growing research and development investments by 25% to advance our transformational transcatheter structural heart programs.

Smart Recovery algorithms for patients.

Stock Performance.    As a general indicator of ourpay-for-performance culture, theour Compensation and Governance Committee considers how Edwards’ cumulative total return to stockholders (“TSR”) compares to both the S&P 500 Index and the S&P Health CareHealthcare Equipment Select Industry Index (the “SPHESI”“SPSIHE”). The table below illustrates our Company’s 5-year cumulative total stockholder returnTSR on common stock with the cumulative total returns of the S&P 500 Index and the SPHESI.

SPSIHE.

COMPARISON OF 5-YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN*

LOGO

*

$100

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*    $100 invested at market close on December 31, 2012 in stock or index, including reinvestment of dividends. Fiscal year ending December 31. The stock price performance included in this graph is not necessarily indicative of future stock price performance.

2017, in stock or index, including reinvestment of dividends. The stock price performance included in this graph is not necessarily indicative of future stock price performance.



2022 Annual Incentive Plan Outcomes and Long TermLong-Term Incentives.    Our    The three measures used to evaluate financial results in 2017 surpassed theachievement under our annual cash incentive plan target achievement percentages forwere revenue growth, earnings per share and free cash flow, all threecomputed on a non-GAAP basis. Our financial measures by significant margins, andperformance resulted in financial performanceachievement at 175%61% of target under the cash incentive plan. In addition, our overall achievement of KODskey operating drivers (“KODs”) for 20172022 was 122%113%. Accordingly, our cash incentive plan for corporate employees funded at 175%69% of target. Final incentive amounts for the Named Executive Officers (“NEOs”) for 20172022 also took into account each employee’s individual performance. The PBRSUsPerformance Based Restricted Stock Units (“PBRSUs”) that vested in 20172022 were based on Edwards’ total stockholder return (“TSR”)TSR compared to that of companies in a subset of the SPHESIS&P Health Care Equipment Select Industry Index (the “SPHESI“SPSIHE Subset”). The payout as discussed in more detail in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis section of thesethis Proxy Statement. These PBRSUs trackedwere paid out in May 2022 at 175% of target, reflecting the strong performance of our stock over the three-year period and paid out at 175% of target.

performance period.



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COMPENSATION PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS(Page 28)

31)

Compensation Program Highlights.    The    Our Compensation and Governance Committee believes that its executive compensation and benefits philosophy and objectives have resulted in programs that align executives with stockholder interests.

LOGO

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WHAT WE DO

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Pay-for-Performance.Approximately 89%92% of the target total direct compensation of our CEO, and an average of 78%80% of the target total direct compensation of our other NEOs, wasperformance-based in 2017.

2022.

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Linkage Between Performance Measures and Strategic Imperatives.Performance measures for incentive compensation are linked to our Strategic Imperatives through achievement of KODs and are designed to createlong-term stockholder value and hold executives accountable for their individual and Edwards’ performance.

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Performance-Based

Performance-Based Equity.Our PBRSUs vest based on our relative TSR over athree-year period.

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Minimum Three-YearThree-Year Vesting.Equity compensation is structured to vest over a minimum period of three years, subject to limited exceptions.

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Robust Executive Stock Ownership Guidelines with Holding Period Requirements.Executives are required to hold Edwards’ stock with a value not less than six-times salary for our CEO and three-times salary for each other NEO. Fifty percent of net shares received as equity compensation must be retained until the guideline has been met.

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CEO Stock Ownership.Our CEO far exceeds histhe six-times salary ownership guideline and has continued to increase his ownership of Edwards’ stock each year.

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Modest Perquisites.We provide modest perquisites and have a business rationale for the perquisites that we do provide.

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“Double Trigger” in the Event of a Change in Control.Control. Severance benefits are paid, and our equity compensation awarded starting in May 2015 accelerates, in connection with a severance, only upon a “double trigger” in connection with a change in control only upon a “double trigger” (meaning a termination ofthat in order for the executive’s employment is required,benefits to be triggered, in addition to the occurrence of a change in control, the executive’s employment must be terminated or, in order for the benefits to be triggered)case of equity acceleration, the awards terminated in connection with the transaction).

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Use of Tally Sheets. TheSheets. Our Compensation and Governance Committee annually reviews summaries of prior and potential future compensation levels (referred to as “tally sheets”) when making compensation decisions.

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“Clawback” Policy.Policy. We maintain a recoupment policy forperformance-based compensation.

compensation.

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Independent Compensation Consultant. TheConsultant. Our Compensation and Governance Committee engages an independent compensation consulting firm that provides us with no other services.

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WHAT WE DON’T DO

No excise tax gross-upsgross-ups for executive officers.

No repricing or buyout of underwater stock options.

No pledging of Edwards’ securities by directors, executives,members of our Board, employees with a title of “vice president” equivalent or above, and “insiders”any other employees designated as “Designated Insiders” under our insider trading policy.

No hedging of Edwards’ securities by directors, executives,members of our Board, employees with a title of “vice president” equivalent or above, and “insiders”any other employees designated as “Designated Insiders” under our insider trading policy.

We alignALIGN executive compensation

with the interests of our

stockholders.

ExecutiveWe DESIGN executive compensation programs

are designed to avoid excessive risk

and foster long-term value creation.

We adhereADHERE to strong executive

compensation and corporate governance practices.




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Edwards Lifesciences Corporation |    2018I2023 Proxy Statement

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EDWARDS LIFESCIENCES CORPORATION

________________________________

EDWARDS LIFESCIENCES CORPORATION

PROXY STATEMENT FOR THE

2018

2023 ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

GENERAL MEETING AND VOTING INFORMATION


Our Board is soliciting your proxy for use at the Annual Meeting to be held at 10:00 a.m., PT, on Thursday, May 17, 2018,11, 2023, at our corporate headquarters, located at One Edwards Way, Irvine, California 92614.

Unless the context otherwise requires, references in this Proxy Statement to “Edwards,” “the Company,” “we,” “our,” “us,” and similar terms refer to Edwards Lifesciences Corporation, a Delaware corporation.

Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for theOur 2023 Annual Meeting of Stockholders Meeting to be Held on May 17, 2018

11, 2023

We are pleased to take advantage of U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) rules that allowsallow us to furnish our proxy materials, including our 20172022 Annual Report and this Proxy Statement (the(together, the “Proxy Materials”), over the Internet. As a result, we are mailing to most of our stockholders a Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy Materials (the “Notice”) instead of a paper copy of the Proxy Materials. The Notice contains instructions on how to access those documents over the Internet and how to submit your proxy via the Internet. The Notice also contains instructions on how to request a paper copy of the Proxy Materials. All stockholders who do not receive athe Notice will receive a paper copy of the Proxy Materials by mail or an electronic copy of the Proxy Materials by e-mail. This process allows us to provide our stockholders with the information they need in a more timely manner, while reducing the environmental impact and lowering the costs of printing and distributing the Proxy Materials. This Proxy Statement and our 20172022 Annual Report are available athttp:https://ir.edwards.com/annuals-proxies.cfmfinancials/annual-reports-proxies/default.aspx.

The Notice and the Proxy Materials are first being made available to stockholders on or about March 29, 2018.

28, 2023.

Voting Matters and the Recommendations of theour Board

The items of business scheduled to be voted on at the Annual Meeting and our Board’s recommendation on each item are as follows:

   ProposalBoard Vote
Recommendation

Proposal

Board’s Voting
Recommendation
Proposal 1.

Election of Directors

ew-20230327_g12.jpgFOR

each nominee

Proposal 2.

Advisory Vote to Approve Named Executive Officer Compensation

ew-20230327_g30.jpgFOR

Proposal 3.

Advisory Vote to Approve Frequency of Future Advisory Votes on Named Executive Officer Compensation

ONE YEAR

Proposal 4.Ratification of Appointment of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

ew-20230327_g30.jpgFOR

Proposal 4.

5.
Approval of Amendment of the Certificate of Incorporation to Provide for Exculpation of Officers

Advisory Vote on a

ew-20230327_g31.jpg    FOR
Proposal 6.Stockholder Proposal Regarding Action By Written Consent

an Independent Board Chairman Policy

AGAINST


Stockholders will also be asked to consider and transact such other business as may properly come before the Annual Meeting or any postponement or adjournment thereof. Pursuant to our Bylaws, the chairmanchair of the Annual Meeting will determine whether any business proposed to be brought before the Annual Meeting has been properly presented. If the chairmanchair determines that the business was not properly brought before the Annual Meeting, the chairmanchair will declare toat the Annual Meeting that such business was not properly brought and such business will not be transacted.






Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 1


Record Date and Stockholders List

The

Our Board has fixed the close of business on March 22, 201813, 2023, as the record date for the determination of stockholders entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the Annual Meeting. A list of stockholders of record entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting will be available for inspection by any stockholder, for any purpose germane to the meeting, during normal business hours, for a period of ten days prior to and including the date of the meeting, at our corporate headquarters located at One Edwards Way, Irvine, California 92614.

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  GENERAL MEETING AND VOTING INFORMATION


Who Can Vote

You are entitled to vote your shares at the Annual Meeting if our records show that you held your shares as of the close of business on the record date, March 22, 2018.13, 2023. At the close of business on that date, 210,520,704606,100,254 shares of our common stock were outstanding and entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting. We have no other class of voting securities outstanding. Each stockholder is entitled to one vote per share on each proposal to be voted upon at the Annual Meeting.


How to Vote

You may hold Edwards’ shares in multiple accounts and therefore receive more than one set of the Proxy Materials. To ensure that all of your shares are voted, please submit your proxy card or voting instruction form and related materials. Please vote EACH proxy card and voting instruction form thatinstructions for each account for which you receive.

have received a set of the Proxy Materials.

Shares Held of Record.Record.    If you hold your shares in your own name as a holder of record with our transfer agent, Computershare, you may authorize that your shares be voted at the Annual Meeting in one of the following ways:

By Internet

If you received athe Notice or a printed copy of the Proxy Materials, follow the instructions in the Notice or on the proxy card.

By Telephone

If you received a printed copy of the Proxy Materials, follow the instructions on the proxy card.

By Mail

If you received a printed copy of the Proxy Materials, complete, sign, date, and mail your proxy card in the enclosed,postage-prepaid envelope.

In Person

You may also vote in person if you attend the Annual Meeting.

Shares Held in Street Name.Name.    If you hold your shares through a broker, bank or other nominee (that is, in street name), you will receive instructions from your broker, bank or nominee that you must follow in order to submit your voting instructions toand have your shares voted at the Annual Meeting. If you want to vote in person at the Annual Meeting, you must obtain a legal proxy from your broker, bank or other nominee, and bring it to the meeting.

Shares Held in Our 401(k) Plan.Plan.    If you participate in the Edwards Lifesciences Corporation 401(k) Savings and Investment Plan or the Edwards Lifesciences Technology SarlSARL Retirement Savings Plan, (formerly known as the Edwards Lifesciences Corporation of Puerto Rico Savings and Investment Plan), you will receive a request for voting instructions with respect to the shares allocated to your plan account. You are entitled to direct the plan trustee how to vote your plan shares. If the plan trustee does not receive voting instructions for shares in your plan account, the shares attributable to your account will be voted in the same proportion as the allocated shares for which voting instructions have been received.

Even if you plan to attend the Annual Meeting, we recommend that you submit your proxy or voting instructions in advance of the Annual Meeting as described above so that your vote will be counted if you later decide not to attend or are unable to attend the Annual Meeting.

Deadline to Vote

If you are a stockholder of record, your proxy must be received by telephone or the Internet by 11:59 p.m. ET on May 16, 201810, 2023 in order for your shares to be voted at the Annual Meeting. If you are a stockholder of record and you received a printed copy of the Proxy Materials, you may instead mark, sign, date and return the enclosed proxy card, which must be received before the polls close at the Annual Meeting.

If you hold your shares in street name through a broker, bank or other nominee, please follow the instructions provided by the broker, bank or other nominee who holds your shares. If you hold shares in one of our 401(k) plans, to allow sufficient time for voting by the plan trustees, your voting instructions must be received by telephone or the Internet by 11:59 p.m. ET on May 14, 2018.

5, 2023.


Appointment of Proxies

The

Our Board has appointed William J. Link,Martha H. Marsh and Michael A. Mussallem and Wesley W. von Schack to serve as proxy holders to vote your shares according to the instructions you submit. If you properly submit a proxy, but do not indicate how you want your shares to be voted on one or more items, your shares will be voted on such items in accordance with the recommendations of our Board, as set forth above under “Voting Matters and the Recommendations of theour Board.” With respect to any other matter properly presented at the Annual Meeting, your proxy, if properly submitted, gives authority to the proxy holders to vote your shares on such matter in accordance with their best judgment.

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Edwards Lifesciences Corporation |    2018I2023 Proxy Statement

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  GENERAL MEETING AND VOTING INFORMATION  


Revocation of Your Proxy

If you are a holder of record, you may revoke your proxy at any time before it is voted at the Annual Meeting by delivering written notice of revocation to the Corporate Secretary of the Company by submitting a subsequently dated proxy by mail, telephone or the Internet in the manner described above under “How to Vote,” or by attending the Annual Meeting and voting in person. Attendance at the Annual Meeting will not itself revoke an earlier submitted proxy. If you hold your shares in street name, you must follow the instructions provided by your broker, bank or nominee to revoke your voting instructions, or, if you have obtained a legal proxy from your broker, bank or other nominee giving you the right to vote your shares at the Annual Meeting, by attending the Annual Meeting and voting in person.

Any change to your proxy or voting instructions that is provided by telephone or the Internet must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. ET on May 16, 2018,10, 2023, except that if you are voting shares held in one of our 401(k) plans, the deadline is 11:59 p.m. ET on May 14, 2018.

5, 2023.

Broker Voting

Brokers

Certain brokers holding shares of record for their customers are entitled to vote on certain routine matters, such as the ratification of the appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (“PwC”), our independent registered public accounting firm (Proposal 3)4), without instructions from their customers. However, these brokers are generally not entitled to vote on certainnon-routine matters, including the election of directors, matters relating to equity compensation plans or executive compensation, and certain corporate governance proposals, unless their customers submit voting instructions. If you hold your shares in street name through a broker and the broker does not receive your voting instructions, the broker will not be permitted to vote your shares in its discretion on any of the proposals at the Annual Meeting other than the proposal to ratify the appointment of PwC (Proposal 3)4). If you do not submit voting instructions and your broker votes your shares on Proposal 34 in its discretion, your shares will constitute “brokernon-votes” on each of the other proposals.

Quorum

The presence at the Annual Meeting, in person or by proxy, of holders of at least a majority of the outstanding shares of common stock entitled to vote is necessary to constitute a quorum to transact business at the Annual Meeting. Shares represented at the Annual Meeting are counted toward a quorum even if the holder of such shares abstains from voting. Shares held through brokers are not counted toward a quorum unless the broker has authority to vote, and votes such shares, upon at least one matter at the Annual Meeting.


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 3


Vote Required on Proposals

The following summary describes the vote required to approve each of the proposals at the Annual Meeting.

Voting ItemVote Standard

Treatment of Abstentions and
Broker

Non-Votes

Proposal 1.

Election of Directors

Majority of votes cast

Abstentions and brokernon-votes will not be counted as votes cast

Proposal 2.

  Proposal 3.

  Proposal 4.

Advisory Vote to Approve Named Executive Officer Compensation

Executive Compensation (Advisory)

Ratification of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Stockholder Proposal (Advisory)

Majority of shares represented at the Annual Meeting and entitled to vote on the proposal

Abstentions will have the effect of votes “against”

“against"


Brokernon-votes will not be counted as shares entitled to vote on the proposal

Proposal 3.Advisory Vote to Approve Frequency of Future Advisory Votes on Named Executive Officer Compensation
Proposal 4.Ratification of Appointment of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Proposal 5.Approval of Amendment of the Certificate of Incorporation to Provide for Exculpation of Officers
Majority of outstanding shares entitled to vote on the proposal
Abstentions and broker non-votes will have the effect of votes “against”
Proposal 6.Stockholder Proposal Regarding an Independent Board Chairman Policy
Majority of shares represented at the Annual Meeting and entitled to vote on the proposal
Abstentions will have the effect of votes “against”

Broker non-votes will not be counted as shares entitled to vote on the proposal


Proxy Solicitation Costs

Your proxy for the Annual Meeting is being solicited on behalf of our Board, and weour Company will paybear the cost of solicitation. At our expense, we will also request brokers and other custodians, nominees and fiduciaries to forward proxy soliciting materials to the beneficial owners of shares held of record by such persons. In addition, we have retained Georgeson Inc.LLC (“Georgeson”) to assist with the distribution and solicitation of proxies for a fee of $20,000, plus expenses for these services. We also agreed to indemnify Georgeson against liabilities and expenses arising in connection with the proxy solicitation unless caused by Georgeson’s gross negligence or intentional misconduct. Georgeson and our officers, directors and regular employees may also solicit proxies by telephone, facsimile,e-mail and personal solicitation. We will not pay additional compensation to our officers, directors and regular employees for these activities.

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Edwards Lifesciences Corporation |    2018I2023 Proxy Statement3

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS MATTERS


PROPOSAL 1 – ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

THE BOARD RECOMMENDS A VOTE“FOR” THE ELECTION OF EACH OF THE NOMINEES FOR DIRECTOR

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THE BOARD RECOMMENDS A VOTE “FOR” THE ELECTION OF EACH OF THE NOMINEES FOR DIRECTOR.

General.    Our Board currently consists of eightnine directors forming onea single class of directors, and all directors will be standing for election for aone-year term at the Annual Meeting.

Since our 2017 annual meeting, the Board appointed Leslie S. Heisz as Chairperson of the Audit Committee following the retirement of John T. Cardis. Ms. Heisz, who has served on our Board since July 2016, has a distinguished investment banking career, and her deep financial expertise positions her well to chair the Audit Committee. Since 2010, Ms. Heisz has served on other public company boards further balancing her skills to oversee financial reporting, enterprise and operational risk management.

Thedirectors.

Our Board has nominated the eightnine individuals identified below for election to our Board at the Board,Annual Meeting, to serve a one-year term until the next annual meeting of stockholders and until their respective successors are elected and qualified, or until their earlier resignation or removal.

Each of the nominees standing for election is currently a director and was previously elected to our Board by our stockholders, except Bernard Zovighian, who is being nominated as a director by our Board in conjunction with his appointment as our Chief Executive Officer, effective May 11, 2023. Each of the director nominees has consented to serve as a director, if elected. However, if any nominee becomes unable or unwilling for good cause to serve before the election, the shares represented by proxy may be voted for a substitute nominee designated by theour Board. No arrangement or understanding exists between any nominee and any other person or persons pursuant to which any nominee was or is to be selected as a director or nominee, and none of our directors has any family relationship with any other director or with any of our executive officers. More information regarding theour Board, the committees of theour Board, director independence, and related matters follows this Proposal 1.

Identification and Evaluation of Director Candidates.    Our Board carefully considers the skills, experiences, and diversity of its members as part of aits robust process for director evaluation education, and refreshment.Board refreshment process. Even though our Compensation and Governance Committee makes recommendations to theour Board regarding candidates for election as directors of theour Company, all members of theour Board are very engaged in the process of, and discussions regarding, refreshment.

The

Our Compensation and Governance Committee maintains formal criteria for selecting director nominees who will best serve the interests of theour Company and itsour stockholders. These criteria are described in more detail below under “Board Criteria and Diversity Policy.” In addition to these requirements, theour Compensation and Governance Committee also evaluates whether the candidate’s skills and experience are complementary to the existing Board members’ skills and experience, recognizing that theour Board’s skills evolve in order to align with theour Company’s strategy as well as emerging risks and opportunities. Some or all of the members of theour Compensation and Governance Committee interview candidates that meet the criteria, and theour Compensation and Governance Committee selects nominees that it believes best suit the needs of theour Board.

Since 2014, the Board has embarked upon As a result of our Board’s thoughtful and deliberate process of refreshment, eight new directors have been added to our Board refreshment, resultingsince 2014, including two new directors in 2020 and the election of fivenewest director nominee, our Company’s new directors.Chief Executive Officer, who will transition into the role in conjunction with the Annual Meeting. This process has involved the participation of all directors, to taketaking advantage of their broad range of expertise and experience as part of thedecision-making process.

From time to time, the


Our Compensation Committee may engage the services of an executive search firm to assist in identifying and evaluating candidates for the Board. The CompensationGovernance Committee will consider qualified candidates for director nominees suggested by theour Company’s stockholders. Stockholders can suggest qualified candidates for director nominees by writing to the Corporate Secretary of theour Company at One Edwards Way, Irvine, California 92614. Submissions should include the information about the director candidate and the stockholder making the submission that would otherwise be required by Article I, Section 2(f) of our Bylaws if the stockholder was nominating the individual for election to our Board. Submissions received that meetinclude such information, and provided that the recommended candidate meets the criteria described below, are forwarded to theour Compensation and Governance Committee for further review and consideration. TheOur Compensation and Governance Committee may also request additional information concerning the director candidate that it deems reasonably required to determine the eligibility and qualification of the director candidate to serve on our Board. Stockholders suggesting director candidates for consideration by our Board in connection with the next annual meeting of stockholders should provide their submission no earlier than January 12, 2024, and no later than February 11, 2024. Our Compensation and Governance Committee does not intend to evaluate candidates proposed by stockholders any differently thanfrom other candidates.

Board Criteria and Diversity Policy.    Our Board, led by theour Compensation and Governance Committee, is responsible for assessing, identifying, evaluating, and, ultimately, recommending to the stockholders individuals qualified to be directors of theour Company. We believe that diverse backgrounds and experiences strengthen Board performance and promote long-term stockholder value creation.

The


Our Compensation Committee’sand Governance Committee charter sets forth the membership criteria against which potential director candidates are evaluated. These written membership criteria state that theour Company “seeks a boardBoard with diversity of background

4    LOGO      among its members as determined by our Board in its business judgment, which may include diversity of


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation |    2018I2023 Proxy Statement

5


PROPOSAL 1 — ELECTION OF DIRECTORS  

among its members, including diversity of


experience, gender, race, ethnic or national origin, and age.age or other factors as our Board determines appropriate.” In performing this responsibility, theour Compensation and Governance Committee considers women and minority candidates, consistent with the membership criteria and theour Company’snon-discrimination policies.

The


Our Compensation and Governance Committee also seeks director candidates and nominees with the following qualities:

qualities, among other characteristics:

intelligence,

    intelligence;

honesty,

    honesty;

perceptiveness,

    perceptiveness;

good judgment,

judgment;

maturity,

    maturity;

high ethics and standards,

standards;

integrity,

    integrity;

fairness and responsibility,

    fairness;

    responsibility;

a background that demonstrates an understanding of business and financial affairs and the complexities of a large, multifaceted, global business, governmental or educational organization,organization; and

the ability to hold    independent opinions and expressthe willingness to state them in a constructive manner.


Of equalsignificant importance, theour Compensation and Governance Committee and theour Board seek individuals who are compatible and able to work well with other directors and executives. The satisfaction of these criteria is implemented and assessed through ongoing consideration of directors and potential nominees by theour Compensation and Governance Committee and theour Board, with a discussion of Board succession planning held at regularly scheduled meetings of theour Board and certain specially called meetings. These discussions have included reviews of current director skills against an established skills matrix and consideration of each director’s retirement horizon, as well as theour Board’sself-evaluation and peer evaluation processes, as described below under “Board Evaluations.” Based upon these activities and its review of the current composition of theour Board, theour Compensation and Governance Committee and theour Board believe that the nominating criteria have been satisfied. As a result, theour Board believes its members represent diverse backgrounds and experience that are aligned with our Company’s strategy, including financial, industrial, entrepreneurial and international experience.

Board Evaluations.    The    Our Board conducts an annual Board and Committeeself-evaluation every July or August, soliciting each director’s views on, among other things, Board and Committee performance and effectiveness, size, composition, agenda, processes and schedule. In addition, theour directors conduct annual peer evaluations focusing on each individual director’s personal interactions and skills. This is a robust process that culminates in one-on-one meetings during which peer feedback is provided to each director by the General Counsel. Our Board views theself- andpeer-evaluation processes as an integral part of its commitment to cultivating excellence and best practices in its performance.

Further, before a Board member accepts a position on another public company’s board of directors, the Board member informs the Chairman and CEO as well as the Lead Independent Director.

In addition to confirming there are no conflicts of interest with the internal legal and compliance functions, the Chairman and Lead Independent Director discuss with the other members of our Board whether there would be any reason for the Board member not to accept the position. Our Board considers, among other things, the engagement of such Board member on our Board and reviews the aforementioned Board evaluations and peer reviews. In light of how critical a Board member’s focused engagement and time commitment is to the director’s ability to contribute and add value to our Company’s business and strategy, this process is intentionally comprehensive and rigorous.
Board Retirement Policy.    As set forth in theour Corporate Governance Guidelines, theour Board has adopted a retirement policy that no director shall stand for election to theour Board after reaching the age of 75.

LOGO     Edwards Lifesciences Corporation    |    2018 Proxy Statement5


  PROPOSAL 1 — ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

75, except in special circumstances specifically approved by our Board. In light of the robust process described above, our Board believes our nominees’ skills, expertise, and experience and their mix of qualifications and attributes strengthen our Board’s independent


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 6


leadership and effective oversight of management.


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LOGOLOGOLOGOLOGO

Diverse Range of Qualifications and Skills Represented by Our Nominees

Directors

Medical Technology

Industry Experience

International Executive
Experience

Executive International

Experience

Corporate Governance

Regulatory and

Compliance

Senior LeadershipOperations Management

Innovation/Technology

Regulatory and
Compliance
Senior Leadership

RiskOperations Management

Risk Oversight

Innovation and TechnologyRisk ManagementRisk Oversight
Finance and Financial

Industry

Human Capital Resources

Human Resources

Financial Reporting

IT and CybersecurityCorporate StrategyCorporate Responsibility


Our Board strives to maintain a highly independent, balanced, and diverse setgroup of directors that collectively possesspossesses the expertise to ensureprovide proper oversight.

6    LOGO     


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation |    2018I2023 Proxy Statement

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BOARD OF DIRECTOR NOMINEES


PROPOSAL 1 — ELECTION OF DIRECTORS  

LOGO     

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Michael A. Mussallem

Chief Executive Officer* and Chairman,
Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

Age:    65

70

Director Since:2000

Edwards Board Roles:

Role:

Chairman of the Board

Select Professional Experience and Highlights:

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

Chairman and CEO,Chief Executive Officer, since 2000

Baxter International Inc.

Group Vice President, Cardiovascular businesses,
from 1994 to 2000

Group Vice President, Biopharmaceutical business,
from 1998 to 2000

Held a variety of positions with increasing responsibility in engineering andproduct development, from 1979 to 1994

Advanced Medical Technology Association (AdvaMed)

Member of the Board, since 2001

Member of the Executive Committee, since 2006

Chairman, from 2008 to 2010

University of California, Irvine Foundation

Member of the Board of Trustees, since 2008

Leonard D. Schaeffer Center for Health Policy & Economics at the University of Southern California

Advisory Member of the Board, since 2014

Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology

Member of the Board of Trustees, since 2017

   California Healthcare Institute

CEO Leadership Alliance

 MemberVice Chairman, since 2017
Elected as a member of the Board,National Academy of Engineering, 2022

* As previously disclosed, Mr. Mussallem will retire from 1996 to 2014

– Chairman, from 2004 to 2005

his position as Chief Executive Officer of the Company at the Annual Meeting.



Forum for Corporate Directors Hall of Fame

University of California Irvine Medal Award

The Phoenix Conference Lifetime Achievement Award

WomenHeart Excellence in Corporate Leadership Wenger Award


Select Skills and Qualifications:

Mr. Mussallem has an extensive knowledge of, and deep expertise in, the medical technology industry, in general, and of the people, operations, processes and products of the Company in particular,particular. He has built an over a more than 35-year40-year career with the Company and its predecessor.predecessor from which he has developed experiences and expertise in a wide range of areas, including innovation and technology, risk management and oversight, operations management, corporate strategy, and corporate governance. In addition, in his roles with AdvaMed and other healthcare-related organizations, he has become a recognized leader in the medical technology industry, making important contributions to healthcare policy discussions in California, the United States and the key global markets that the Company serves. These experiences have established relationships, which are helpful in developing our Board’s strategic perspective, and enhanced his leadership of the Company and contributions to our Board.

LOGO     

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Kieran T. Gallahue        

Martha H. Marsh
Retired President and CEO,
Stanford Hospital & Clinics

Age:    54

74

Director Since:2015

Edwards Board Roles:

  AuditLead Independent Director
 • Compensation and Governance Committee Member

Other Current Public Company Directorships:

  intersect ENT, Inc., since 2015

– Lead Independent Director, since 2015

– Member of the Audit Committee, since 2015

Other Public Company Directorships in Past Five Years:

  CareFusion Corporation, from 2011 to 2015

  Volcano Corporation, from 2007 to 2015

Select Professional Experience and Highlights:

   CareFusion Corporation, a global medical technology company (acquired by Becton, Dickinson and Company in March 2015)

–  Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, from 2011 to 2015

  ResMed, Inc.

–  Member of the Board, from 2008 to 2011

–  Chief Executive Officer, from 2008 to 2011

–  President, from 2004 to 2011

–  President and COO, Americas, from 2003 to 2004

  Nanogen, Inc.

–  Various positions, including President and Chief Financial Officer, from 1998 to 2002

   Prior to 1998, various marketing, sales, and financial positions within Instrumentation Laboratory, the Procter & Gamble Company, and the General Electric Company

   Served on the Board and Executive Committee, and as Chairman of the International Committee and Treasurer of Advanced Medical Technology Association (AdvaMed)

Select Skills and Qualifications:

Mr. Gallahue provides valuable insights and direction to our Board gained through extensive executive management experience at medical technology companies. His leadership roles on other public company boards and committees and prior experience as a public company chief financial officer also enables him to contribute valuable financial and accounting perspectives to our Board and Audit Committee.

LOGO     Edwards Lifesciences Corporation    |    2018 Proxy Statement7


  PROPOSAL 1 — ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

LOGO     

Leslie S. Heisz        

Age:57

Director Since:2016

Edwards Board Roles:

  Chair of the Audit Committee

Other Current Public Company Directorships:

  Public Storage, Independent Trustee, since 2017

–  Member of the Audit and Nominating and Governance Committees, since 2017

Other Public Company Directorships in Past Five Years:

  Ingram Micro Inc., from 2007 to 2016

  Towers Watson & Co., from 2012 to 2016

  HCC Insurance Holdings, Inc., from 2010 to 2014

Select Professional Experience and Highlights:

   Kaiser Foundation Hospitals and Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc., since 2015

–  Member of the Audit Committee, since 2015

–  Member of the Finance Committee, since 2018

–  Member of the Governance and Community Benefit Committees, from 2015 to 2017

  Lazard Freres & Co., from 2003 to 2010

– Served as Senior Advisor then Managing Director for six years

   Dresdner Kleinwort Wasserstein (and its predecessor Wasserstein Perella & Co.), Mergers & Acquisitions and Corporate Finance, from 1995 to 2002

– Served as Director then Managing Director for six years

  Salomon Brothers Inc., from 1987 to 1995

– Served as Associate then Vice President, Corporate Finance for four years

  PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, from 1982 to 1986

– Served as Staff Consultant then Senior Consultant for two years

   National Association of Corporate Directors’ Directorship 100 Award

Select Skills and Qualifications:

Ms. Heisz’s career in the banking industry,in-depth knowledge of capital markets, and previous public company board and audit committee experience enhances our Board’s ability to effectively oversee financial reporting, enterprise and operational risk management, as well as corporate finance, tax, treasury, and governance matters.

LOGO     

William J. Link, Ph.D.        

Age:    71

Director since:    2009

Edwards Board Roles:

  Chair of the Compensation and Governance Committee

Other Current Public Company Directorships:

  Second Sight Medical Products, Inc., since 2003

– Member of the Audit and Nominating and Corporate Governance Committees, since 2003

– Chair of the Compensation Committee, since 2014

  Glaukos Corporation, since 2001 (became a public company in July 2015)

– Chairman, and Member of the Compensation, Nominating and Governance Committee, since 2001

Select Professional Experience and Highlights:

  Versant Ventures, a venture capital firm investing in early-stage healthcare companies

–  Managing Director and Co-Founder, since 1999

  Brentwood Venture Capital, since 1998

–  General Partner

  Chiron Vision (acquired by Bausch & Lomb, Inc.), from 1986 to 1997

–  Founder, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer

   American Medical Optics, Inc. (acquired by Allergan, Inc.), from 1978 to 1986

–  Founder and President

   Before entering the healthcare industry, was an assistant professor in the Department of Surgery at the Indiana University School of Medicine

Select Skills and Qualifications:

Dr. Link’s corporate leadership and long history successfully commercializing products in the medical technology industry provide our Board with a valuable perspective in evaluating the prospects of, and risks associated with, existing business operations. In addition, his extensive experience in identifying new business opportunities and his strong technical and engineering background have proven beneficial in assessing the potential for future innovations.

8    LOGO     Edwards Lifesciences Corporation    |    2018 Proxy Statement


PROPOSAL 1 — ELECTION OF DIRECTORS  

LOGO     

Steven R. Loranger        

Age:    66

Director Since:    2016

Edwards Board Roles:

   Compensation and Governance Committee Member

Other Current Public Company Directorships:

  Xylem Inc., since 2011

– Member of the Audit Committee, since 2011

– Member of the Finance, Innovation, and Technology Committee, since 2017

– Member of the Nominating and Governance Committee, from 2011 to 2017

Other Public Company Directorships in Past Five Years:

  FedEx Corporation, until 2014

  ITT Exelis, Inc., until 2013

Select Professional Experience and Highlights:

  Xylem Inc., a global water technology provider

–  Interim CEO and President, from 2013 to 2014

  ITT Corporation

– Chairman, President, and CEO, from 2004 to 2011

  Textron, Inc.

– Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, from 2002 to 2004

   Honeywell International Inc. and its predecessor company, AlliedSignal, Inc.

–  Various executive positions, including serving as President and Chief Executive Officer of its Engines, Systems and Services businesses, from 1981 to 2002

   Senior Advisor to the CEO of FlightSafety International and serves on the Boards of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum and the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation (Emeritus)

Select Skills and Qualifications:

Mr. Loranger is a seasoned executive with global manufacturing and operational experience in highly regulated,high-tech industries. His decades of experience leading large, globalinnovation-focused corporations with intensive data privacy components is particularly valuable to our Board.

LOGO     

Martha H. Marsh        

Age:    69

Director Since:    2015

Edwards Board Roles:

   Compensation and Governance Committee Member

Other Current Public Company Directorships:

AMN Healthcare Services, Inc., since 2010

–  Member of the Compensation and Corporate Governance Committees, since 2010

– Chair of the Compensation Committee, since 2012

– Member of the Compensation Committee, since 2010
– Member of the Corporate Governance Committee, from 2010 to 2019

Other Public Company Directorships Previously Held:
Owens & Minor, Inc., sincefrom 2012

–  Chair of the Governance and Nominating Committee, and member of the Compensation and Benefits, and Executive Committees, since 2014

Other Public Company Directorships in Past Five Years:

to 2019

Thoratec Corporation, untilfrom 2014 to 2015


Select Professional Experience and Highlights:

Stanford Hospital & Clinics

– President and Chief Executive Officer, from 2002 until her retirement in 2010

University of California Davis Medical Center

– Chief Executive Officer, from 1999 to 2002


University of California Davis Health System

– Chief Operating Officer, from 1999 to 2002

University of Pennsylvania Health System

– Senior Vice President for Professional Services and Managed Care, from 1996 to 1998

– Vice President for Managed Care, from 1994 to 1996


Select Skills and Qualifications:

Ms. Marsh’s experience of more than 30 years in an increasingly complex and evolving healthcare system as a president and chief executive officer, combined with years of board experience that includes corporate governance chairmanships, provide a unique perspective as our Board considers the execution of our patient-focused innovation strategy.

In her role as the Lead Independent Director, Ms. Marsh has been invaluable in partnering with the Chairman and representing the viewpoints and perspectives of our independent directors. She has also been instrumental as a member of the engagement team, communicating with shareholders regarding the Company, including board structure, governance, compensation and sustainability topics.

LOGO     




Edwards Lifesciences Corporation |    2018I2023 Proxy Statement9

8




  PROPOSAL 1 — ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

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Kieran T. Gallahue
Former Chairman and CEO,
CareFusion Corporation

Age:59
Director Since:2015
Edwards Board Role:
   •Audit Committee Member

Other Current Public Company Directorships:
Envista Holdings Corporation, since 2019
– Chair of the Nominating and Governance Committee, since 2019

Other Public Company Directorships Previously Held:
Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc., from 2018 to 2022
– Member of the Audit Committee, from 2018 to 2022
Intersect ENT, Inc., from 2015 to 2022
– Chairman of the Board, from 2020 to 2022
– Member of the Audit Committee, from 2015 to 2022
CareFusion Corporation, from 2011 to 2015
Volcano Corporation, from 2007 to 2015
ResMed, Inc., from 2008 to 2011

Select Professional Experience and Highlights:
CareFusion Corporation, a global medical technology company (acquired by Becton, Dickinson and Company in March 2015)
– Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, from 2011 until his retirement in 2015
ResMed, Inc.
– Chief Executive Officer, from 2008 to 2011
– President, from 2004 to 2011
– President and Chief Operating Officer, Americas, from 2003 to 2004


Nanogen, Inc.
– Various positions, including President and Chief Financial Officer, from 1998 to 2002
Prior to 1998, various marketing, sales, and financial positions within Instrumentation Laboratory, the Procter & Gamble Company, and the General Electric Company
Served on the Board and Executive Committee, and as Chairman of the International Committee and Treasurer of Advanced Medical Technology Association (AdvaMed)

Select Skills and Qualifications:
Mr. Gallahue provides valuable insights and direction to our Board gained through extensive executive management experience at medical technology companies. His leadership roles on other public company boards and committees and prior experience as a public company chief financial officer also enable him to contribute informed financial and accounting perspectives to our Board and Audit Committee. Throughout his career, Mr. Gallahue has gained expertise and experience in areas that we believe are important to the success of our Company as we execute on our patient-focused innovation strategy, including experience in the medical technology industry, as a senior executive managing global operations, risk management and oversight, marketing and corporate strategy.

LOGO     

ew-20230327_g37.jpg

Wesley W. von Schack        






Leslie S. Heisz
Former Managing Director,
Lazard Frères & Co

Age:    73

    62

Director Since:    2010

    2016











Edwards Board Roles:

Role:

   Presiding Director

Chair of the Audit Committee Member

Other Current Public Company Directorships:

  Teledyne Technologies,Public Storage, Independent Trustee, since 2006

2017

– Member of the Audit Committee, from 2017 to 2020
– Member of the Nominating, Governance and Sustainability Committee, since 2017
– Member of the Long-Term Planning Committee, from 2020 to 2021
Capital Group/American Funds
– American Funds ETF board, since 2021 (Audit Committee Chair, member of Contracts and Nominating Committees)
– American Funds AFIS/FoF/Fixed Income boards, since 2022 (Member of Fixed Income Review, Audit and Contracts Committees)
– Private Client Services mutual fund board, from 2019-2022, Member of the Audit Committee, from 2019-2022, and Chair, from 2021-2022

Other Public Company Directorships in Past Five Years:

Previously Held:

  Bank of New York Mellon Corporation, untilTowers Watson & Co., from 2012 to 2016

– Former Lead Director and Chair of Executive Committee

HCC Insurance Holdings, Inc., from 2010 to 2014

Select Professional Experience and Highlights:

   Energy EastKaiser Foundation Hospitals and Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc., since 2015
– Member of the Audit and Compliance Committee, since 2015
– Member of the Finance Committee, since 2018
– Member of the Governance and Community Health Committees, from 2015 to 2017
Lazard Freres & Co., from 2003 to 2010
– Senior Advisor and Managing Director
Dresdner Kleinwort Wasserstein (and its predecessor Wasserstein Perella & Co.), Mergers & Acquisitions and Corporate Finance, from 1995 to 2002
– Director and Managing Director
Salomon Brothers Inc., from 1987 to 1995
– Associate and Vice President, Corporate Finance
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, from 1982 to 1986
– Staff Consultant and Senior Consultant
National Association of Corporate Directors’ Directorship 100 Award

Select Skills and Qualifications:
Ms. Heisz’s career in the banking industry, in-depth knowledge of capital markets, and previous public company board and audit committee experience enhances our Board’s ability to effectively oversee financial reporting, enterprise and operational risk management, as well as corporate finance, tax, treasury, and governance matters. Serving as a director for global companies and having led a global team, Ms. Heisz also brings with her international experience as well as experience in areas including finance and the financial industry, mergers and acquisitions in addition to regulatory and compliance. Ms. Heisz’s many years of experience as a senior executive and board member has demonstrated invaluable contributions as not only a member of the Board but also in her leadership as Chairperson of the Audit Committee.

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 9


ew-20230327_g38.jpg
Paul A. LaViolette
Managing Partner and
COO, SV Health Investors LLC

Age:65
Director since:2020
Edwards Board Role:
Compensation and Governance Committee Member
Other Public Company Directorships Previously Held:
Misonix, Inc., from 2019 to 2021
Asensus Surgical, Inc. (formerly known as TransEnterix, Inc.), from 2014 to 2021
Thoratec, from 2009 to 2015

Select Professional Experience and Highlights:
SV Health Investors LLC, a specialist healthcare fund management company, since 2009
Managing Partner and Chief Operating Officer, since 2014
Advanced Medical Technology Association (AdvaMed), from 1998 to 2008
Boston Scientific Corporation, an energy services company (acquired by Iberdrola S.A.from 1994 to 2008
Various executive positions, including serving as Chief Operating Officer, from 2004 to 2008
C.R. Bard Inc., from 1984 to 1993
Various marketing and general management positions
Kendall, Inc., from 1980 to 1984
– Various marketing positions
Medical Device Manufacturers Association
– Chairman of the Board, from 2016 to 2019
Innovation Advisory Board for the Mass General Brigham Health System
– Chairman of the Board, since 2015

Select Skills and Qualifications:
As a result of his over 40 years in 2008)

the medical technology industry, Mr. LaViolette brings extensive global executive experience. His many years of working with large, global organizations and start-ups, which he continues to do today, provides him with a unique perspective on strategy and innovation as well as corporate development. Mr. LaViolette also has experience in many other areas, including operations management, human capital resources, marketing and communications, corporate strategy and corporate governance. In addition, Mr. LaViolette’s service on other boards, including numerous chairmanships, has enabled him to be a valuable contributor, offering astute insight in the strategic discussions at our Board and Compensation and Governance Committee meetings.

ew-20230327_g39.jpg


Steven R. Loranger
Former Chairman, President and
CEO ITT Corporation

Age:    71
Director Since:    2016










Edwards Board Role:
Audit Committee Member
Other Current Public Company Directorships:
Xylem Inc., since 2011
– Member of the Leadership Development and CompensationCommittee, since 2018
– Chair of the Finance and Technology Committee, since 2017
– Member of the Audit Committee, from 2011 to 2018
– Member of the Nominating and Governance Committee, from 2011 to 2017, Chair since 2023

Other Public Company Directorships Previously Held:
FedEx Corporation, from 2006 to 2014
ITT Exelis, Inc., from 2011 to 2013

Select Professional Experience and Highlights:
Xylem Inc., a global water technology provider
 – Interim Chief Executive Officer and President, from 2013 until his retirement in 2014
ITT Corporation
– Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, from 1996 until his retirement in 2009

2004 to 2011

   AEGIS InsuranceTextron, Inc.
– Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, from 2002 to 2004
Honeywell International Inc. and its predecessor company, AlliedSignal, Inc.
– Various executive positions, including serving as President and Chief Executive Officer of its Engines, Systems and Services Inc.

– Chairman, since 2006, Chair of the Risk Managers Advisory Committee and Director, since 1997

   AEGIS Managing Agency Limited, which manages Syndicate 1225 at Lloyd’s of London

– Non-executive Director and member of the Audit Committee, since 2006

businesses, from 1981 to 2002


Select Skills and Qualifications:

Mr. von Schack’sLoranger is a seasoned executive with global manufacturing and operational experience of more than 30 years in the highly regulated, energy industry as both a chief executive officer and a chief financial officer, combinedhigh-tech industries. His decades of experience leading large, global innovation-focused corporations with intensive data privacy components is particularly valuable to our Board. Through his many years of board experience as an international executive and auditas a member of other public company boards, Mr. Loranger also brings expertise and compensation committee chairmanships, enable himexperience in many other critical areas for our Company, including operations management, financial reporting, finance and the financial industry, innovations and technology and corporate strategy. His expertise in risk management and oversight as well as cybersecurity and information technology has allowed for engaged contributions to make significant contributions in assessingthe Board and managing risks. In addition, the operational and leadership skills developed over his career have provided valuable insights and support to our Board as its Presiding Director.

Audit Committee.


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 10



LOGO     

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Ramona Sequeira
President, Global Portfolio Division,
Takeda Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc.

Age:    57
Director Since:    2020

Edwards Board Role:
Audit Committee Member
Select Professional Experience and Highlights:
Takeda Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc., a biopharmaceutical company, since 2015
 – President, Global Portfolio Division, since 2022
 – Chair of the Commercialization and Launch Committee, since 2020
 – President of the U.S. Business Unit and Global Portfolio Commercialization, since 2020
– President, from 2015 to 2020
– Business Review Committee and Co-Chair of Pipeline Review Committee, since 2015
Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), since 2015
– Chair of the Board, since 2021, and member, since 2015
– Vice Chair, 2020
– Treasurer, 2019
Eli Lilly & Company
– Vice President – Lilly USA, from 2013 to 2015
– General Manager, UK/Northern Europe, from 2010 to 2012
– Vice President, Sales – Lilly Canada, from 2005 to 2009
– Associate Director, Neuroscience Marketing, from 2003 to 2005
Member of the Board of Trustees for Harvey Mudd College, since 2020

Select Skills and Qualifications:
Ms. Sequeira has over 25 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry through her work with Takeda and, prior to that, with Eli Lilly. She currently leads Takeda’s Global Portfolio Division, and, in this role, she oversees roughly 11,000 employees across Takeda's global Vaccines business including manufacturing, research and development and commercial; the Global Commercial and Medical organizations, and all of Takeda's markets across Europe and Canada, Growth and Emerging Markets, and China. Her experience in leadership roles in multiple markets, across cultures and within different healthcare systems where she has successfully launched products, transformed businesses, and delivered sustainable growth is particularly valuable for our global business. In addition, throughout her career, she has developed experience in other areas, including finance and mergers and acquisitions, innovation and technology, risk management and oversight, artificial intelligence and data, corporate responsibility, sustainability and human capital resources, all of which allow her to provide valuable contributions to our Board and the Audit Committee. Ms. Sequeira’s industry experience with pharmaceutical innovation and patient access provides important expertise to our Board as Edwards executes on its patient-focused innovation strategy.
ew-20230327_g41.jpg
Nicholas J. Valeriani

Former CEO, West Health Institute
Former EVP, Johnson & Johnson

Age:    61

66

Director Since:2014

Edwards Board Roles:

Role:

Chair of Compensation and Governance Committee Member

Other Current Public Company Directorships:

Surgalign Holdings, Inc. (formerly known as RTI Surgical Holdings, Inc.,)
– Chair of the Compensation Committee, since 2019 and Member, since 2016

– Member of the Nominating and Governance Committee, since 2019
– Member of the Sciences and Technology Committee, from 2016 to 2020

Other Public Company Directorships in Past Five Years:

Previously Held:

Roka Bioscience, Inc., from 2015 to January 2018


Select Professional Experience and Highlights:

Gary and Mary West Health Institute, an independent, nonprofit medical research organization that works to create new, more effective ways of delivering care at lower costs

– Chief Executive Officer, from 2012 tountil his retirement in 2015

Johnson & Johnson

– Company Group Chairman, Ortho Clinical Diagnostics, from 2009 to 2012

– Member of the Executive Committee

– Vice President, Office of Strategy and Growth, from 2007 to 2009

– Served 34 years in key positions, including Worldwide Chairman, Medical Devices and Diagnostics, and Corporate Vice President, Human Resources

Member of the Boards of the Gary and Mary West Health Institute and the Gary and Mary West Health Policy Center,

since 2012

Member of the Board of AgNovos Healthcare, LLC, since 2016

Member of the Board of SPR Therapeutics, Inc., since 2018

Served on the Boards of the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, untilfrom 2008 to 2016, and the Center for Medical Interoperability, untilfrom 2013 to 2015


Select Skills and Qualifications:

Mr. Valeriani’s

With 40 years of medical technology industry experience in a large and complex global company and experience directing corporate strategy, informs his contributionMr. Valeriani provides critical perspectives to our Board’s oversight of the development of our patient-focused innovation strategy and assessment of future business investments and opportunities. His deep operational experience provides invaluable insights to our Board. In addition, through his backgroundprofessional career as well as his service on other public company boards, Mr. Valeriani has extensive experience in human capital resources at a global company which enables him to contribute valuable insights toperspectives and provide strong leadership and direction as the Chairperson of our Board’s Compensation and Governance Committee.

THE BOARD RECOMMENDS A VOTE“FOR”THE ELECTION OF EACH OF THE NOMINEES FOR DIRECTOR


10    LOGO     

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation |    2018I2023 Proxy Statement

11



BOARD OF DIRECTORS MATTERS  

ew-20230327_g42.jpg
Bernard J. Zovighian
President and incoming CEO,
Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

Age: 55
Director Since: N/A
Edwards Board Role:
Board Nominee
Select Professional Experience and Highlights:
Edwards Lifesciences Corporation, since 2015
– Chief Executive Officer, expected May 2023
– President, since January 2023
– Corporate Vice President, Transcatheter Mitral and Tricuspid Therapies (TMTT), from January 2018 to January 2023
– Vice President then Corporate Vice President, Surgical Structural Heart, from 2015 to January 2018
Johnson & Johnson
– Held a variety of roles with increasing levels of responsibility for nearly 20 years, in roles such as regional leadership outside of the United States and Worldwide President of Sterilization & Infection preventions division

Select Skills and Qualifications:
Mr. Zovighian has a nearly 30-year career in medical technology, including 12 years leading three different global businesses across two world-class medical technology companies. He has lived in several countries and, as a senior leader, led teams globally and blends this global mindset and a team-based approach to leadership with his strengths in strategy development, the innovation and adoption of disruptive technologies that elevate the standard of care and establishing trusted partnerships. As the global leader for TMTT at Edwards the last five years, Mr. Zovighian established a global organization focused on developing and delivering a portfolio of therapies designed to change the standard of care for mitral and tricuspid patients.


ew-20230327_g24.jpg
THE BOARD RECOMMENDS A VOTE “FOR” THE ELECTION OF EACH OF THE NOMINEES FOR DIRECTOR.

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 12



CORPORATE GOVERNANCE POLICIES AND PRACTICES

Corporate Governance Highlights.    The


Our Company and theour Board take seriously our commitment to good corporate governance. We believe the regular review of our corporate governance practices with current issues and trends in mind, the discussions we hold with our stockholders and advisersadvisors, and the practice enhancements we consider as a result help us to compete more effectively, sustain our successes and buildlong-term value for our stockholders. Our commitment to good corporate governance practices and accountability to stockholders is described in the following chart.

LOGO

WHAT WE DO

Annual election of directors

Board refreshment and director skill set aligned with corporate strategy

Majority vote standard in uncontested elections, with director resignation policy

Special stockholders meetings can be called by stockholders owning at least 15% of our outstanding shares

Proxy access right to permit a stockholder, or a group of up to 30 stockholders, owning at least 3% of our outstanding shares continuously for at least 3 years, to nominate up to the greater of 2 directors or 20% of our Board for inclusion in our proxy statement

Independent Board, all but our Chief Executive Officer

Executive session of independent directors held at each Board and committee meeting

Independent Presiding Director provides strong independent leadership of our Board

Retirement policy for directors

Annual Board and committeeself-evaluations and peer reviews

Encourage continuing director education with designated annual reimbursement policy

Formal director orientation and continuing education program

Nonemployee directors expected to hold net shares upon vesting or exercise of equity awarded after 2011 until Board service ends

Senior management succession planning considered at each regularly scheduled Board meeting

Active stockholder engagement

Robust code of ethics in our Global Business Practice Standards

Board oversight of risk management

Corporate sustainability report

“Clawback” policy forperformance-based compensation

LOGO

WHAT WE DON’T DO

No pledging or hedging of Edwards’ securities by directors, executives, employees with a title of “vice president” or above and “insiders” under our insider trading policy

No stockholder rights plan (“poison pill”)

No supermajority voting provisions in the Company’s organizational documents


Active Stockholder Engagement Program.    TheOur Board and management are committed to engaging with Edwards’ stockholders.stockholders and incorporating feedback into their decision-making processes. Throughout the year, our CEO, CFO and Senior Vice President of Investor Relations meet, by phone andface-to-face, in-person, with current and prospective stockholders to discuss Edwards’ strategy, business and financial results. Our CFO, Corporate Secretary, and Senior Vice President of Investor Relations, teams, together with other members of management and from time to time, our PresidingLead Independent Director, when appropriate, engage stockholders to solicit their views and feedback on corporate governance, compensation and other related matters and to discuss the issues that matter most to our stockholders.stockholders, including, among other things, corporate governance, compensation, sustainability, corporate social responsibility, human capital management, diversity, inclusion and belonging, succession planning, and other related matters. Stockholder feedback is shared with theour Board and its committees, which enhances our corporate governance practices, facilitates future dialogue between stockholders and theour Board and provides additional transparency to our stockholders. Since the 2017 Annual Meeting, our Corporate Secretary and Investor Relations teams2022 annual meeting of stockholders, we contacted our top stockholders representing more thanapproximately 55% of our outstanding shares and engaged with stockholders representing approximately 33% of our outstanding shares. In this engagement, we received feedback from stockholders on a range of issuestopics including corporate governance, executive compensation, and sustainability.

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corporate social responsibility.


  BOARD OF DIRECTORS MATTERS

Over time, we have amended our Charter and Bylaws to adopt various stockholder rights andor taken other actions to align our corporate governance practices with our stockholders’ interests.

Topic

Topic

Action Taken in Response to Stockholder Feedback

Proxy Access

Lead Independent
Director
Responsibilities

  Adopted proxy access at 3%Expanded the role of the Presiding Director position, and, 3 year ownership and holding period duration thresholds

in light of the additional responsibilities, designated the position, Lead Independent Director

Rightto Call
Special Meetings

Amended our Bylaws to permit stockholders to call a special meeting
In response to a non-binding stockholder proposal requesting the right to act by written consent, engaged with stockholders representing over 50% 50% of shares then outstanding to better understand investor views and, in response to feedback received, reduced the minimum ownership threshold to call a special meeting from 25% to 15%

Proxy Access
Amended our Bylaws to permit holders of 25% of outstanding shares to call a special meeting

provide for proxy access at 3% and 3-year ownership and holding period duration thresholds
Disclosure of
EEO-1 Data
Disclosed our EEO-1 data and relevant infographics on our website

DeclassifiedBoard

Amended our Charter to eliminate the classified board

No Supermajority

Voting

Amended our Charter to eliminate supermajority voting

Poison Pill

Did not renew poison pill when it expired in March 2010

Majority Voting

inDirector

Elections

Amended our Bylaws to provide for majority voting in uncontested director elections


Director Independence.Under the corporate governance rules of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”), a majority of the members of theour Board must satisfy the NYSE criteria for independence. No director qualifies as independent unless theour Board affirmatively determines that the director has no material relationship with theour Company (either directly or as a partner, stockholder, or officer of an organization that has a relationship with theour Company). TheAfter review of information supplied in the director questionnaires that are provided on an annual basis, our Board has determined that each of Mr. Gallahue, Ms. Heisz, Dr. Link,Mr. LaViolette, Mr. Loranger, Ms. Marsh, Ms. Sequeira and Mr. Valeriani, and Mr. von Schackthe nominees for election at the Annual Meeting, is independent under the NYSE rules. Mr. Mussallem isand Mr. Zovighian are not independent as a result of their employment as executive officers of our Company.
In assessing the directors’ independence, our Board took into account certain relationships involving Mr. LaViolette and each of Corvia Medical, Inc. and Endotronix, Inc. (entities in which our Company currently has investments). Our Board considered (i) Mr. LaViolette’s position as the chairman of the board of Corvia Medical and his less than 1% interest in Corvia Medical, Inc., and (ii) Mr. LaViolette’s position as chairman of the board of Endotronix, Inc., and his position as ourManaging Partner and Chief Executive Officer. The Board had also determinedOperating Officer of SV Health Investors, LLC, which has a less than 10% investment interest in Endotronix, Inc., and concluded that the foregoing did not impair Mr. Cardis, who retired from the Board in 2017, was independent during his Board service.

LaViolette’s independence.


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 13


Corporate Governance Guidelines.    Our Board has adopted a set of Corporate Governance Guidelines (the “Governance Guidelines”) to assist theour Board and its committees in performing their duties and serving the best interests of theour Company and its stockholders. The Corporate Governance Guidelines cover topics including, but not limited to, director selection and qualification, director responsibilities and operation of theour Board, director access to management and independent advisors, director compensation, director orientation and continuing education, risk oversight, succession planning, recoupment ofperformance-based compensation and the annual evaluations of theour Board. TheOur Corporate Governance Guidelines are available on our website atwww.edwards.com under “Investors—Corporate Governance.Governance & Sustainability—Governance—Governance Documents.


Board Leadership Structure.    Our Board appreciates the importance of having an active, engaged and independent Board. The independent directors, under the leadership of our Lead Independent Director, evaluate our Board’s overall leadership structure at least on an annual basis to ensure that the approach provides independent oversight of our Company and serves the best interests of stockholders. In addition, our Compensation and Governance Committee annually reviews and evaluates our Board’s committee membership and recommends changes to our Board in the number, authority, and duties of our committees as well as any recommended changes in the leadership and membership of our committees. Our Compensation and Governance Committee considers input from the full Board, including the Chairman of the Board and our Lead Independent Director, in making its recommendations.

Our Board evaluates its leadership structure in accordance with our Company’s developing needs and circumstances, including Board dynamics, management structure and current Company business and financial performance considerations. Our Board believes that flexibility to choose separated or combined Chief Executive Officer and Chairman roles based on these needs and circumstances is a critical decision that must be made by our Board, which is best positioned to make such a decision, informed by its regular discussions on succession as well as its knowledge of our Company and the skills, experience and relationships among directors and having thoughtfully considered all of the relevant facts and circumstances.

Under our current model, which has been in place for the past 23 years, Mr. Mussallem, our current Chief Executive Officer until the Annual Meeting, also serves as the Chairman of the Board. ThisBoard; in addition, since 2003, one of our independent directors has served as the presiding director of our non-management directors. The responsibilities of our presiding director position have expanded since that time and, in 2019, we formally designated this position as our Lead Independent Director. Ms. Marsh, one of our independent directors, currently serves as our Lead Independent Director, and has the responsibilities further described below. We believe this leadership structure has been in place since we first became a public company in 2000.contributed to tremendous shareholder value creation at our Company, outperforming the S&P 500 and our peer index, and growing Edwards’ market capitalization from $961.5 million to $50,375.9 million (from March 27, 2000 to February 1, 2023, respectively), which is an increase of 5,140%. Our Board believes it has been and continues to be effective for our Company. Under this model, the Company has experienced strong financial and operational growth over its 18 years as a public company, most recently providing a cumulative total return of 150% to stockholders from 2012 to 2017. We have a single leader, and ourcurrent Chairman and Chief Executive Officer is seen by our stakeholders, including our customers, physicians, business partners, investors and others, as providing strong leadership for theour Company in our industry and the communities we serve.

Effective at the Annual Meeting, Mr. Bernard J. Zovighian, our Company’s current President, will succeed Mr. Mussallem as Chief Executive Officer and will also become a member of our Board. In connection with the planned succession, our Board has determined it is appropriate to separate the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman roles. With Mr. Mussallem serving as non-executive Chairman of the Board following his retirement as Chief Executive Officer. Because Mr. Mussallem will not be considered an independent director following his retirement, the independent directors of our Board have determined that Ms. Marsh will continue to serve andas our Lead Independent Director. All of the foregoing changes expected to occur in our industry. conjunction with the Annual Meeting are contingent on the named directors being elected at the Annual Meeting.

Our Board believes that, combiningunder these circumstances, separating the roles of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer has fostered a more constructive and cooperative relationship betweenChairman roles will allow the Board and management, and that their communications are more open and effective than they would be under a different structure. Our Board also believes that, given its size and constructive working relationships, changing the existing structure would not improve the Board’s performance. The directors bring a broad range of leadership experienceCompany to the boardroom and regularly contribute to the thoughtful discussion involved in overseeing the affairsleverage Mr. Mussallem’s extensive knowledge of the Company. AllCompany and the medical technology industry, while transitioning management of the Company’s strategic initiatives and business and operating plans to Mr. Zovighian.

Our directors arewell-engaged in their responsibilities, regularly contribute and express their views, challenge the Chief Executive Officer and management with alternate considerations, and are open to the opinions expressed by other directors.

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS MATTERS  

Our Board believes that it is important to have an active, engaged Ms. Marsh’s continuation as our Lead Independent Director—even while the Chief Executive Officer and independent Board. Our Governance Guidelines provide that a substantial majority of our Board and all of the members of our Audit Committee and Compensation Committee will be independent under the applicable rules of the NYSE. All members of our Board, other than the Chairman are independent. In order to assure that the independent directors are not inappropriately influenced by management, thenon-management members of the Board meetpositions are separate—will facilitate open communication by our independent directors and safeguard the continued independent oversight of our Company by our Board.


Lead Independent Director’s Role and Responsibilities.    Our Lead Independent Director plays an important role in executive session, without management, in conjunction with each regularly scheduled meetingmaintaining effective independent oversight of the Board and each committee, and otherwise as deemed necessary. These executive sessions allow directors to speak candidly on any matter of interest, without the CEO or other members of management present.our Company. Our Corporate Governance Guidelines provide that if our Chairman is not independent, our independent directors shall annually select an independent director to serve as Presidingthe Lead Independent Director. Mr. von SchackEach year, the Lead Independent Director’s performance is assessed. As part of this review, our Compensation and Governance Committee evaluates the criteria for nominees for the Lead Independent Director role and assesses any necessary changes. In selecting the Lead Independent Director, our Compensation and Governance Committee considers relevant leadership, operational and corporate governance experience, relationships with other Board members and external commitments. In addition, the Lead Independent Director is expected to have a thorough understanding of our Company’s business operations and history.


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 14


As described above, Ms. Marsh is currently designated as the PresidingLead Independent Director and is expected to continue in that role if elected as such, hea director at the Annual Meeting. In her role as Lead Independent Director, Ms. Marsh presides at the executive sessions of our Board and also represents our Company from time to time in communications with our stockholders and other stakeholders. For example, Ms. Marsh participates in our engagement outreach calls with our stockholders to discuss a variety of topics, including compensation, governance, and sustainability. In addition, when our Board visits with clinicians and patients, Ms. Marsh is oftentimes asked to speak on behalf of the entire Board.

In addition, in discharging his responsibilities under our Corporate Governance Guidelines, Mr. von Schack:

the Lead Independent Director:

    reviews and approves Board meeting agendas and relevant information provided to our Board;

    reviews and approves Board meeting schedules to ensure there is sufficient time for discussion of all agenda items;
serves as a liaison between the independent members of the Boarddirectors and the Chairman and other members of management;

provides feedback to management from the Board’s executive sessions;

coordinates the activities of the independent directors, including calling meetings of the independent directors as necessary and appropriate to address their responsibilities;

provides advice and counsel to the Chairman;Chairman and

the Chief Executive Officer; and

consults and directly communicates with major stockholders and other stakeholders on behalf of our Board, as appropriate, including participation in theour Company’s stockholder outreach efforts.


While our Board Roleas a whole works together to oversee management’s execution of our Company’s operations, our Company’s risk exposure and risk management plans, and our Company’s overall strategic direction, the Lead Independent Director, who applies her many years of board governance experience, works closely with the Chairman of the Board and takes action as determined necessary or appropriate to ensure there is critical independent oversight in these key areas of focus. These additional actions include, but are not limited to:
requesting information from management,
proposing executive sessions of the independent directors,
proposing separate meetings of our Board,
proposing meetings with individual members of our Board or of management, and
collaborating with the Chairman in suggesting agenda items to be presented by management or actions to be taken by our Board in response to information obtained from management, the independent directors and other stakeholders.

Further, to ensure independent oversight of our Board, our Corporate Governance Guidelines provide that a substantial majority of our Board and all members of our Audit Committee and Compensation and Governance Committee will be independent under the applicable rules of the NYSE. All members of our Board, other than our Chief Executive Officer and Chairman, are independent. In order to assure that the independent directors are not inappropriately influenced by management, the independent directors meet in executive sessions led by our Lead Independent Director, without management, in conjunction with each regularly scheduled meeting of our Board and each committee, and otherwise as deemed necessary by the Lead Independent Director or our other independent directors. These executive sessions allow independent directors to speak candidly on any matter of interest, without our Chairman, Chief Executive Officer or other members of management present.
Risk Oversight.    Effective risk oversight is an importanta priority of thefor our Board. Its role includes understanding the critical risks in the business, including the severity and immediacy of such risks, allocating the responsibilities for risk oversight among the full Board and its committees, evaluating theour Company’s risk management processes and facilitating open communication between management and theour directors.


While theour Board oversees risk management, theour Company’s management is charged with managing risk and bringing to theour Board’s attention emerging risks as well as discussing the most material risks. We have robust internalstatus of the long-term risks facing our Company. Our strategic planning processes thatare designed to facilitate the identification and management of such risks and assureensure regular communication with theour Board and its committees. Our Board, with independent leadership from the Audit Committee.

Lead Independent Director and working through its committees, proactively participates in the oversight of management’s actions. At each regularly scheduled Board meeting, and at least once per quarter, theour Company’s management provides the full Board with an analysis and assessment of the key risks facing our Company. Our Lead Independent Director and the Chairpersons of our two committees review and approve the agendas for, and information provided in, such meetings, and, after consulting with the Chairman of our Board, may call for additional meetings or executive sessions of our Board or its committees to discuss risk-related topics as they may, individually or collectively, determine necessary or appropriate. Our Board also regularly engages with outside advisors and experts as it deems appropriate from time to time to evaluate and anticipate current key risk areas and consider strategies to respond. These advisors and experts provide valuable information, including clinicians’ perspectives, and best practices, landscape overview, industry trends and peer data in areas such as the global regulatory environment, governance, compensation, global operations and sustainability, to facilitate our Board’s fulsome review and discussion of these risk areas with the management team, which then informs action and strategy.



Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 15


Additionally, our Audit Committee, the Chief Financial Officer, and the Chief Responsibility Officer (our Company’s mostchief compliance officer) meet at least annually, and more often as needed, to review various potential risks to our Company, including those related to financial reporting, product development, continuity of operations, regulatory compliance, succession planning, physical facilities and other topics. Our Chief Responsibility Officer reports directly to our Audit Committee and is responsible for the management of compliance risks through implementation and oversight of a comprehensive global program designed to ensure adherence to laws and regulations, including but not limited those covering anti-corruption, healthcare fraud and abuse, public procurement and antitrust. Further, the Senior Vice President of Enterprise Risk Management also reviews and discusses with the full Board potential risks related to our strategic plan in connection with an annual strategic review of our Company.

Management assesses and prioritizes risks over a seven-year time horizon using quantitative and qualitative inputs on multiple key dimensions of enterprise risk, including, among other things, (i) patient safety, (ii) business and financial metrics, (iii) operational risks (disruptive events), (iv) reputation and brand, (v) legal and regulatory, and (vi) talent and employee well- being. We consider the immediacy and severity of enterprise risks as part of our assessment process. Through our business continuity program, we have also implemented standardized plans across our global manufacturing sites, and we routinely run exercises to test readiness.

Our Board committees each play a significant risks.

The Board implements its risk oversight function both as a whole and through delegation to its committees. Both committees play significant rolesrole in carrying out theour Board’s risk oversight function.

The Our Audit Committee oversees risks related to theour Company’s financial statements and the financial reporting process, including our internal control over financial reporting, disclosure controls and procedures and accounting matters. In its oversight of our controls and procedures, our Audit Committee may receive reports or recommendations for the improvement of such controls and procedures from our Senior Vice President of Global Internal Audit, other members of management or our Company’s independent auditor to help mitigate risk. Our Audit Committee may engage such other advisors as it deems appropriate to assess our Company’s management of risk. It also regularly reviews Edwards’our risk management processes andenterprise-wide risk management, focusing primarily on manufacturing processes and supplier quality, product development processes and systems, continuity of our operations and regulatory compliance issues. Thecompliance. Our Audit Committee also regularly reviews treasury risks (insurance, credit, debt, currency risk and hedging programs), legal and compliance risks, information technology infrastructure andcyber-security risk, and other risk management functions.functions; senior leaders of our Company present at least twice a year, and sometimes more frequently as applicable, on information technology infrastructure and cybersecurity and information security risks. In addition, theour Audit Committee considersregularly reviews the corporate compliance program to assess its effectiveness at identifying and managing compliance risks, including but not limited to the Company’s reputationmechanisms and relatedchannels for compliance concerns to the maintenance of a confidential anonymous reporting hotline for ethical and compliance issues. Thebe reported. Our Audit Committee periodically receives reports on, and discusses, the risk management and escalation process, and reviews significant risks and exposures with the subject matter experts inidentified by management, the internal auditors, or the independent public accountants, who identityincluding the steps management has taken to monitor and control such risks and report them to the Audit Committee.

Theexposures.

Our Compensation and Governance Committee considers risks related to succession planning, human capital management, including diversity, inclusion and belonging, the attraction and retention of talent, and risks relating to the design of compensation programs and arrangements. As part of its normal review of these risks, theour Compensation and Governance Committee considers theour Company’s compensation policies and practices to determine if their structure or implementation provides incentives to employees to take unnecessary or inappropriate risks that could have a material adverse effect on theour Company. TheOur Compensation and Governance Committee also reviews compensation and benefits plans affecting employees, in addition to those applicable to executive officers. TheOur Compensation and Governance Committee has determined that the implementation and structure of the compensation policies and practices do not encourage unnecessary and inappropriate risks that could have a material adverse effect on theour Company. TheOur Compensation and Governance Committee further

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  BOARD OF DIRECTORS MATTERS

determined that theour Company’s compensation programs and practices appropriately encourage employees to maintain a strong balance sheet, improve operating performance and create value for stockholders, without encouraging unreasonable or unrestricted risks. In making these determinations, theour Compensation and Governance Committee considered the views of theour Company’s compensation staff, legal counsel and internal audit team, as well as its Compensation Consultant (as defined below). In addition, theour Compensation and Governance Committee oversees risks associated with theour Company’s political activities and expenditures, as well as its sustainability practices.

Therisks related to corporate social responsibility principles, programs and practices, including environmental and social affairs. Moreover, our Compensation and Governance Committee oversees our Company’s program for engaging with stockholders on corporate governance and other matters relating to meetings of the Company’s stockholders.

Each committee reports regularly to the full Board considers strategic risks and opportunities and regularly receives reports from the committees regarding risk oversight in their areas of responsibility.on its activities. Our Board believes that the processes it has established for overseeing risk would be effective under a variety of leadership frameworks and therefore do not materially affect its choice of leadership structure as described under “Board Leadership Structure” above.

above, facilitates effective risk oversight by our Board by ensuring independent director review, led by our Lead Independent Director and working through our independent Board committees, of key risk areas and management’s risk management actions and priorities. We further believe that Mr. Mussallem, in his role as non-executive Chairman of the Board following the Annual Meeting, will be instrumental in guiding our independent directors’ understanding of the most critical risks facing our Company and in helping them challenge members of management to reinforce the effectiveness of the Company’s enterprise risk management.

Meetings of theour Board.During the year ended December 31, 2017, the2022, our Board held sevennine meetings. Each director attended at least 75%100% of the total of all meetings of theour Board and any applicable committee held during the period of his or her tenure in 2017.

The2022.

Our Company encourages, but does not require, itsour directors to attend our annual meetings of stockholders. All but one of ourthen-current directors attended the 2017our 2022 annual meeting.

meeting of stockholders.


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 16



Board Composition.The current Board size is fixed at eight directors and will be increased to nine directors immediately prior to the Annual Meeting in connection with the proposed election of the nine director nominees named in this Proxy Statement, including Bernard J. Zovighian, who will succeed Mike Mussallem as our Chief Executive Officer effective as of the Annual Meeting.

Our Board has fixed the numberregularly assesses its composition, including in connection with our Board evaluation process, as further described above in “Identification and Evaluation of directors at eight.

Director Candidates.” The ages of our directorsdirector nominees range from 5455 to 73,74, with an average age of approximately 65.64. We believe in a balanced approach to director tenure that allows theour Board to benefit from a mix of newer directors who bring fresh perspectives and seasoned directors who bring continuity and a deep understanding of our business. DirectorFor our nominees, lengths of service on our Board range from approximately two0 years to approximately 1723 years, with an average tenure of approximately six8 years. Our Board gender diversity is 25%.In addition, 33.3% of our nominees are female, and 22% of our nominees are ethnically or racially diverse. None of our directorsthe nominees currently servesserve on the boards of directors of more than two other public companies.

Committees of theour Board.To facilitate independent director review, and to make the most effective use of the directors’ time and capabilities, we have established theour Audit Committee and theour Compensation and Governance Committee. TheOur Board is permitted to establish other committees from time to time as it deems appropriate.

Audit Committee

Audit Committee Membership

Leslie S. Heisz, Chair

Kieran T. Gallahue

Wesley W. von Schack

Steven R. Loranger
Ramona Sequeira

Key Highlights:

Highlights.

Ms. Heisz was appointed as Chair    Our Board has determined that each member of theour Audit Committee on May 11, 2017 after Mr. Cardis retired at the 2017 annual meeting of stockholders.

Each member is “independent,” “financially literate,” and an “audit committee financial expert” under applicable rules of the NYSE and the SEC.

The    Our Audit Committee held nine meetings in 2017.

2022.

Purpose.    The    Our Audit Committee assists theour Board in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities relating to:

to, among other things:

the integrity of theour Company’s financial statements;

compliance with legal and regulatory requirements;

monitoring the independent registered public accounting firm’s qualifications, performance and independence;

the performance of theour Company’s internal audit function;

the    our Company’s investment and hedging activities; and

enterprise-wide risk risks and management practices.

practices related to those risks, including, but not limited to, manufacturing processes and supplier quality, product development processes and systems, continuity of our operations and information technology infrastructure and cybersecurity and information security risks.

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS MATTERS  

TheOur Company has afull-time internal audit function that reports to theour Audit Committee and to the CFO, and is responsible for, among other things, objectively reviewing and evaluating the adequacy, effectiveness and quality of theour Company’s system of internal controls. TheOur Company also has a Chief Responsibility Officer who manages theour Company’s ethics and compliance programs reportingand reports directly to theour Audit Committee and the CEO.

TheCommittee.

Our Audit Committee appoints, retains, terminates, determines compensation for, and oversees the independent registered public accounting firm, reviews the scope of the audit by the independent registered public accounting firm and inquiries into the effectiveness of theour Company’s accounting and internal control functions. TheOur Audit Committee also assists theour Board in establishing and monitoring ethics and compliance with the Global Business Practice Standards of theour Company. TheOur Company’s Global Business Practice Standards are posted on our website atwww.edwards.com under “About Us—Corporate Responsibility.” TheOur Audit Committee also reviews, with the Company’s management and the independent registered public accounting firm, theour Company’s policies and procedures with respect to risk assessment and risk management and reviews and approves or ratifies any related party transactions, as described under “Other Matters and Business—Related PartyPersons Transactions” below.

The full responsibilities of theour Audit Committee are included in its written charter, which is posted on our website atwww.edwards.com under “Investors—Corporate Governance.Governance & Sustainability—Governance—Governance Documents.


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 17


Compensation and Governance Committee

Compensation and Governance


Committee Membership

WilliamNicholas J. Link, Ph.D.,Valeriani, Chair

Steven R. Loranger

Paul A. LaViolette

Martha H. Marsh

Nicholas J. Valeriani

Key Highlights:

Highlights.

Each    Our Board has determined that each member of our Compensation and Governance Committee is “independent” under the rules of the NYSE and a “nonemployee director” underRule 16b-3 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”),.

    Our Compensation and an “outside director” as defined in Treasury Regulation§ 1.162-27(e)(3).

The CompensationGovernance Committee held five meetings in 2017.

2022.

Purpose.     The

Purpose.    Our Compensation and Governance Committee’s responsibilities include:

include, among other things:

determining the compensation of executive officers and recommending to theour Board the compensation of outside directors;

directors who are not employed by us or any of our subsidiaries (“non-employee directors”);

exercising    overseeing management of succession planning, attraction and retention of talent, and risks related to the authoritydesign of the Board concerning employee benefit plans;

advising the Board on otherexecutive compensation programs and employee benefit mattersarrangements;

    developing and approving the compensation clawback policy applicablerecommending to our executive officers;Board corporate governance guidelines for our Company;
    identifying, evaluating and

recommending individuals qualified to be directors to the Board;

overseeing the evaluation of theour Board and executive officers.

management;

    overseeing our Company’s principles, programs and practices on sustainability topics, including environmental and social affairs; and
    overseeing our Company’s program for engaging with stockholders on corporate governance and other matters relating to meetings of our Company’s stockholders.
In making its decisions theregarding compensation of our NEOs (other than our CEO), our Compensation and Governance Committee considers recommendations provided by our CEO and Corporate Vice President of Human Resources, regarding compensation of the NEOs (other than the CEO), as further described under “Compensation Discussion and Analysis—Compensation Process” below. TheOur Compensation and Governance Committee has also delegated to the(i) our CEO the authority to grant stock options or other equity awards to eligible employees who are not executive officers.

officers, and (ii) the Administrative and Investment Committee the administrative and fiduciary functions related to our Company’s employee benefit plans, including the review of funding and investment of plan funds, and the authority to approve amendments to the plans, appoint trustees and enter into trust agreements.

In 2017, the2022, our Compensation and Governance Committee retained the services of Semler Brossy Consulting Group as its independent compensation Consultantconsultant (“Compensation Consultant”). See “Compensation Discussion and Analysis—Independent Compensation Consultant” for additional information regarding theour Compensation and Governance Committee’s engagement of its Compensation Consultant.

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  BOARD OF DIRECTORS MATTERS

TheOur Compensation and Governance Committee also advises theour Board on Board committee structure and membership and corporate governance matters. It evaluates the governance environment, receives feedback from management interactions with stockholders, and reviews and recommends to theour Board corporate governance enhancements that are in the best interest of theour Company and itsour stockholders.

The

Our Compensation and Governance Committee also oversees Edwards’ political activities, including the periodic review of its policy on political expenditures and its payments that may be used for political purposes, and confirms that political expenditures from corporate funds are consistentreceives reports regarding compliance with the policy. In addition, theour Compensation and Governance Committee reviews and oversees Edwards’ principles, programs and practices on sustainability topics, including environmental and social affairs.affairs, as well as our Company’s public reporting on these topics. Reports concerning political activities and sustainability efforts and metrics are presented periodically to theour Compensation and Governance Committee.

The full responsibilities of theour Compensation and Governance Committee are included in its written charter, which is posted on our website atwww.edwards.com under “Investors—Corporate Governance.Governance & Sustainability—Governance—Governance Documents.



Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 18


Succession Planning.    Our Board is actively engaged and involved in talent management to identify and cultivate our future leaders. At everyregularly scheduled Board meeting,meetings, directors discuss theour Company’s leadership and talent development. Our directors also have an opportunity to meet with Company leaders, including executive officers, business group leaders and functional leaders through regular reports to theour Board from senior management, technology showcases and mealsother gatherings with management. In addition, Board members have freedom of access to all employees, and have maderegularly make site visits to meet local management.

The planned retirement of Mr. Mussallem as our Chief Executive Officer and the transition of Mr. Zovighian into the role took many months of thoughtful discussion and planning. As part of the process, both internal and external candidates were evaluated for the CEO role.Our Board, understanding the importance of this decision, was fully engaged in the process of evaluating candidates for the CEO role and selecting Mr. Zovighian as the successor to Mr. Mussallem. Our Board continues to be engaged to support a successful leadership transition.

We maintain a robustmid-year and annual performance review process for our employees, as well as amany programs focused on leadership development programand growth that cultivatesare designed to cultivate leadership principles in our future leaders. Management develops leadership at lower levels of the organization by identifying both high potentials and key talent and exposing them to the skills and capabilities that will allow these individuals to become future leaders.

Communications with the Board.    Anyour Board of Directors.    Stockholders and other interested partyparties who desiresdesire to contact any member of theour Board, including the PresidingLead Independent Director or thenon-management members of theour Board as a group, may write to any member or members of theour Board at: Board of Directors, c/o Corporate Secretary, Edwards Lifesciences Corporation, One Edwards Way, Irvine, California 92614. Communications will be received by the Corporate Secretary of theour Company and, after initial review and determination of the nature and appropriateness of such communications, will be distributed to the appropriate members of theour Board depending on the facts and circumstances described in the communication.






































Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 19


CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Our Board recognizes

At Edwards, our commitment to corporate responsibility and sustainability is foundational, and expressed in the importancewords of our sustainability initiativesCredo: Through our actions, we will become trusted partners with customers, colleagues and patients – creating a community unified in its mission to improve the need to provide effective oversight.quality of life around the world. Our results will benefit customers, patients, employees, and shareholders.” Our Compensation and Governance Committee maintains formal oversight responsibilities for our Sustainability program, with regular discussions at meetings of the full Board.
Board Oversight Over Environmental, Sustainability, and Corporate Social Responsibility
Our Board has designed robust internal processes to oversee our
Company’s sustainability principles, strategies, and initiatives.
ew-20230327_g43.jpg

Edwards’ Sustainability Report discusses our programs and practices that are designed to promote ethical business practices, good corporate governance, and the well-being and health of the environment, our employees, and the communities in which we live and work. We have established a robust framework for ensuringcontinue to align our sustainability efforts with our Credo and Aspirations and patient-focused innovation strategy. In 2022, we further integrated sustainability factors into our strategic planning process so that future sustainability goals may be more closely aligned with our efforts are properly managedbusiness strategy, Credo and implemented including the establishment of a cross-functional Sustainability Council which includes leaders from across the organization.

Aspirations. Our team continues to assess and report progress on our goals annually, and has organized its structure within Edwards to further align sustainability initiatives to Edwards’ corporate strategy and overall goals.


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 20


We receivedwere recognized by numerous recognitionsorganizations for our sustainability and environmental responsibilities practices in 2017,2022, some of which are highlighted below:

Ethisphere’s    For the third consecutive year, Edwards appeared on Barron’s fifth annual list of the 100 Most Sustainable Companies in the United States. Significant performance indicators included increased efforts to mitigate our impact on the environment, as well as initiatives undertaken to bolster employee welfare, community health and customer satisfaction.

    Edwards was named as one of the Management Top 250 by the Wall Street Journal in partnership with the Drucker Institute for the sixth year in a row—listed #87 out of 902 companies ranked according to their overall effectiveness of “doing the right things well.” The evaluation aims to recognize firms that are particularly good at balancing a wide range of competing management priorities. Edwards achieved high marks in all five dimensions of corporate performance: Customer Satisfaction, Employee Engagement and Development, Innovation, Social Responsibility and Financial Strength.
    For the second consecutive year, Edwards was recognized as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies;

Top Female-Friendly Companies. Forbes ranked Edwards #156 out of 400 companies included in the list. Forbes’ partner, Statista, surveyed 85,000 women in 36 countries. Honorees were selected in part due to their competitive pay and strong career advancement opportunities, along with flexible work arrangements, which are considered critical to correct gender inequities. They also assessed female representation at the executive and board levels.

First time•    Edwards was again a constituent of theDJSI ESG World and North America IndexIndices—the Dow Jones Sustainability North AmericaWorld index tracks the performance of the top 20%10% of the 6002,500 largest United States and Canadian companies in the S&P Global Broad Market Index that lead the field in sustainability;

sustainability.

CPA-Zicklin Trendsetter from the 2017 CPA-Zicklin Index of Corporate Political Disclosure

    Edwards was recognized for its industry leadership on Environmental issues by Forbes and Accountability—companies in the S&P 500 are scored for their corporate political policies, disclosure and oversight transparency; and

ConstituentJUST Capital. This is an evaluation of the globalMSCI ACWI ESG Leaders Index—index provides exposurelargest publicly traded U.S. companies, which are ranked on the issues Americans care about most, according to companies with high ESG performance relative to their sector peers and consistsJUST Capital's polling of large and mid-cap companies across 23 Developed Markets and 24 Emerging Markets countries.

the American public.

16    LOGO

    For the seventh consecutive year, Edwards Lifesciences Corporation    |    2018 Proxy Statement

was honored as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies® by the Ethisphere Institute, a global leader in defining and advancing the standards of ethical business practices. Honorees represent the individuals and leaders diligently working to build world-class programs and advance corporate cultures defined by integrity and those companies contributing to broader societal imperatives and the greater good. In 2023, 135 honorees were recognized, spanning 19 countries and 48 industries.


BOARD OF DIRECTORS MATTERS  

Edwards’More details on our sustainability approach and performance can be found in our Sustainability Report discusses our programs and practices designed to promote ethical business practices, good corporate governance, and thewell-being and health of our environment, employees, and the communities in which we live and work. We conducted a comprehensive materiality assessment through engagement with internal and external stakeholders that identified the sustainability topics that matter most for the Company. Sustainability targets were set that align with our five Corporate Aspirations. And, we published our Sustainability Metricsat-a-Glance to provide a snapshot of our environmental, social responsibility, and corporate governance data. Our Sustainability Report is posted on our website atwww.edwards.com/sustainability. A complete list of recognitions can be found on our website at www.edwards.com under “About Us – Corporate Responsibility.”

Board Oversight Over Environmental, Sustainability, and Corporate Social Responsibility

Our Board has designed robust internal processes to oversee our

Company’s sustainability principles, strategies,“Newsroom—Awards and initiatives

LOGO

recognitions.”

LOGO     


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation |    2018I2023 Proxy Statement17

21


  BOARD OF DIRECTORS MATTERS




DIRECTOR COMPENSATION

In 2017, changes were made to the director compensation program to align director pay with the peer median:

eliminated the initial equity award granted to new nonemployee directors;

eliminated Committee meeting fees paid for attendance at Committee meetings;

increased the annual retainer paid to each nonemployee director from $60,000 to $65,000;

increased the annual equity grant value from $200,000 to $225,000;

increased the Audit Committee Chair’s fee from $20,000 to $25,000;

added an Audit Committee member annual retainer fee of $5,000; and

added a $1,500 per meeting fee, but only if meetings exceeded 10 meetings for the Board, 10 meetings for the Audit Committee, or 7 meetings for the Compensation and Governance Committee.

Director Compensation Table – 2017

2022

The following table presents the 20172022 compensation paid or awarded to each individual who served as a nonemployee director at any time during 2017.2022. The compensation paid to Mr. Mussallem is presented in the “Executive Compensation” disclosures beginning on page 42.46. Mr. Mussallem does not receive additional compensation for his service as a director.

  Name

 

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

Total

($)

 

 

Mr. Cardis(3)

 

   

 

 

 

$10,000

 

           

 

$

 

10,000  

 

 

 

Mr. Gallahue

 

   

 

 

 

14,000

 

   

 

$

 

224,940

 

   

 

$

 

60,360

 

   

 

 

 

299,300  

 

 

 

Ms. Heisz

 

   

 

 

 

33,000

 

   

 

 

 

224,940

 

   

 

 

 

60,360

 

   

 

 

 

318,300  

 

 

 

Dr. Link

 

   

 

 

 

23,000

 

   

 

 

 

289,967

 

       

 

 

 

312,967  

 

 

 

Mr. Loranger

 

   

 

 

 

4,000

 

   

 

 

 

289,967

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

293,967  

 

 

 

Ms. Marsh

 

   

 

 

 

69,000

 

   

 

 

 

224,940

 

       

 

 

 

293,940  

 

 

 

Mr. von Schack

 

   

 

 

 

39,000

 

   

 

 

 

289,967

 

       

 

 

 

328,967  

 

 

 

Mr. Valeriani

 

   

 

 

 

69,000

 

   

 

 

 

224,940

 

       

 

 

 

293,940  

 

(1)

Consists of annual retainer fees and meeting fees for service as a director and a member of Board committees. Please see the “Retainers and Fees” section below. Excludes retainer fees deferred into stock-based awards, as described in footnote 2 below.

(2)

Includes annual retainer fee deferred into a stock or option award, as the case may be, under the Nonemployee Directors Program (as defined below).

Amounts disclosed in these columns reflect the aggregate grant-date fair value of the stock award or option award, as applicable, granted to our nonemployee directors during 2017 as determined under the principles used to calculate the grant-date fair value of equity awards for purposes of our financial statements in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification Topic 718. For a discussion of the assumptions and methodologies used to value the awards reported in these columns, please see the discussion of stock awards and option awards contained in Note 13 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” in the 2017 Annual Report.

Please see the information under “Nonemployee Directors Stock Incentive Program” and “Outstanding Nonemployee Director Equity Awards” below for the grant-date fair value of each stock and option award granted to our nonemployee directors in 2017 as well as the stock and option awards held by each nonemployee director at the end of 2017.

(3)

Mr. Cardis retired from the Board on May 11, 2017 in accordance with the Company’s director retirement policy.

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS MATTERS  

Name
Fees Earned 
or Paid in Cash
($)
(1)
Stock
Awards
($)
(2)
Option
Awards
($)
(2)
Total
($)
Mr. Gallahue$ 85,075$ 249,895$ 334,970
Ms. Heisz102,492249,895352,387
Mr. LaViolette80,000249,895329,895
Mr. Loranger85,075249,895334,970
Ms. Marsh115,000249,895364,895
Ms. Sequeira85,000249,895334,895
Mr. Valeriani98,000249,895347,895

(1)    Consists of annual retainer fees and meeting fees for service as a director and a member of Board committees. Please see the section “Retainers and Fees” below. Director fees that would have been paid in cash, but, at the election of the director, converted to restricted stock or option awards are included in this “Fees Earned or Paid in Cash” column.
(2)    Amounts disclosed in these columns reflect the aggregate grant-date fair value of the restricted stock award or option award, as applicable, granted to our nonemployee directors during 2022 (excluding restricted stock and option awards granted in lieu of cash and as to which the corresponding retainer fees have been included in the “Fees Earned or Paid in Cash” column), as determined under the principles used to calculate the grant-date fair value of equity awards for purposes of our financial statements in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification Topic 718. For a discussion of the assumptions and methodologies used to value the awards reported in these columns, please see the discussion of restricted stock awards and option awards contained in Note 14 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” in the 2022 Annual Report.
     Please see the information under “Nonemployee Directors Stock Incentive Program” and “Outstanding Nonemployee Director Equity Awards” below for the grant-date fair value of each restricted stock and option award granted to our nonemployee directors in 2022 as well as the restricted stock and option awards held by each nonemployee director at the end of 2022.
Retainers and Fees.Nonemployee directors received the following retainers and fees in 2017:

 

  Nonemployee Director Retainers and Fees

 

     

 

Annual Retainers

  

 

Nonemployee Director

  

 

$

 

65,000

 

 

 

Presiding Director

  

 

$

 

 

25,000

 

 

 

 

 

Audit Committee Chair

  $25,000 

 

Audit Committee Member

  $5,000 

 

Additional Meeting Fees if meetings exceed the following:

  

 

$

 

 

1,500

 

 

 

 

    – 10 meetings for the Board

  

 

    – 10 meetings for the Audit Committee

  

 

    – 7 meetings for the Compensation and Governance Committee

  

 

 

Compensation Committee Chair

  

 

$

 

18,000

 

 

2022:
*

Per meeting;

Nonemployee Director Retainers and Fees
Annual Retainers
Nonemployee Director$80,000
Lead Independent Director$35,000
Audit Committee Chair$25,000
Audit Committee Member$5,000
Additional Meeting fees cannot be deferred.

Fees if meetings exceed the following:
$1,500*
– 10 meetings for the Board
– 10 meetings for the Audit Committee
– 7 meetings for the Compensation and Governance Committee
Compensation and Governance Committee Chair$18,000

*    Per meeting; meeting fees cannot be deferred.
A director may elect to receive stock options or restricted shares in lieu of the annual cash retainers as described in “Deferral Election Program” below. Meeting fees, however, cannot be deferred. Retainers are paid in advance. Directors beginning service during the year receive a prorated amount of the retainer.


Nonemployee Directors Stock Incentive Program.In order to align the nonemployee directors’ interests more closely with the interests of our stockholders, we have implementedmaintain our Nonemployee Directors Stock Incentive Program (the “Nonemployee“2020 Nonemployee Directors Stock Incentive Program”), pursuant to which each nonemployee director receives an annual grant of options for up to 40,000120,000 shares of our common stock, or RSUsRestricted Stock Units (“RSU”) for up to 16,00048,000 shares of our common stock, or a combination of options and RSUs with a maximum grant-date value established by our Compensation and Governance Committee or our Board. The annual equity award is typically granted on the day after our annual meeting. Our Board has discretion to determine whether an award will be granted to a director who joins our Board mid-year and to determine the terms and conditions of approximately $225,000, which was increased from $200,000 in 2017. Theany such award. Our Compensation and Governance Committee recommends to theour Board for its approval the actual amount and type of award for each year.

The For 2022, our Board provided that each nonemployee director in office following our 2022 annual equity award ismeeting would be granted on the day after our annual meeting. The option exercise price is the closing price of our common stock on the grant date. Options are valued as of theRSUs having a grant date using the Black-Scholes valuation model, and the RSUs are valued at the fair market value of $250,000, rounded to the common stock on the grant date.

nearest whole share.


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 22


On May 12, 2017,4, 2022, each nonemployee director who was serving on that date received 2,0342,300 RSUs as an annual grant (the grant-date fair value of such award was $224,940,$249,895, determined as noted in footnote (2)2 to the Director Compensation Table above).

These RSUs vest 100% upon the earlier of the completionone-year anniversary of one year of service on the Board measured from the grant date orand the date of the next regular annual meeting of stockholders at which members of our Board are to be elected, subject to earlier vesting in the event of the nonemployee director’s death or disability.disability or in connection with a change of control of Edwards. Once the RSUs vest, the shares must be held until the nonemployee director no longer serves on the Board.

Prior to 2017, upon a nonemployee director’s initial election to the Board, the new nonemployee director received a grant of the number of RSUs or stock options determined by dividing $200,000 by the fair value of a share on the grant date for RSUs, or the fair value of an option on the grant date, estimated using the Black-Scholes valuation model, and in either case rounding up to the nearest whole share, provided that in no event shall such number exceed twenty thousand (20,000) shares. Initial stock option awards vest one-third each year over three years from the grant date, subject to the nonemployee director’s continued service on the Board,requirements described in “Directors’ Stock Ownership Guidelines and subject to earlier vesting in the event of the nonemployee director’s death or disability. The exercise price of an option is the closing price of our common stock on the date of the award. With respect to initial stock option awards granted after May 14, 2013, the shares of our common stock issued upon exercise of the options must be held until the nonemployee director no longer serves on the Board.

Holding Requirement” below.

Deferral Election Program.In lieu of all or part of a nonemployee director’s annual cash retainer, the director may elect to receive either stock options or restricted sharesstock awards under the 2020 Nonemployee Directors Stock Incentive Program. If a director makes a timely election to receive stock options, such options are granted on the date the cash retainer would otherwise have been paid, and the number of shares subject to the option is equal to four times the number of shares that could have been purchased on the grant date with the amount of the director’s cash retainer that was foregone to receive the award. The options are exercisable and vested in full on the grant date, and the exercise price per share is the fair market value of the

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  BOARD OF DIRECTORS MATTERS

common stock on the grant date. If a director makes a timely election to receive a restricted share award, the shares are granted on the date the cash retainer would otherwise have been paid, and the number of shares granted is equal to the portion of the cash retainer to be paid in the form of restricted shares divided by the fair market value per share of the common stock on the grant date. The restrictions on the restricted shares lapse upon the earlier of (1) the one-year anniversary of the grant date or (2)and the date of the next regular annual meeting of stockholders at which members of theour Board are to be elected.

elected, subject to earlier vesting in the event of the nonemployee director’s death or disability or in connection with a change in control of Edwards.

On May 12, 2017, Mr. Gallahue and4, 2022, Ms. Heisz each received 2,3522,209 stock optionsoption shares in lieu of his orthe portion of her annual cash retainer she deferred (the grant-date fair value of such award was $57,492, determined as noted in footnote 2 to the Director Compensation Table above). On the same date, Messrs. Gallahue and Loranger received a grant of 737 restricted shares in lieu of their annual cash retainer (the grant-date fair value of each such award was $60,360,$80,075, determined as noted in footnote (2) to the table above). On the same date, Messrs. Loranger and von Schack, and Dr. Link each received a grant of 588 restricted shares in lieu of his annual cash retainer (the grant-date fair value of each such award was $65,027, determined as noted in footnote (2)2 to the Director Compensation Table above).

Directors’ Stock Ownership Guidelines and Holding Requirement.Under the stock ownership guidelines, each nonemployee director is expected to own shares of our common stock equal to $360,000.with a value of at least $500,000. This amount equals almostmore than six times the base annual cash retainer received byfor each nonemployee director. StockShares that is countedcount toward meeting the guideline includes any sharesinclude common stock owned outright, restricted stock, RSUs and 25%RSUs. Once the stock ownership guideline of the value of vested, in-the-money stock options. Upon vesting or exercise of equity awarded after 2011,$500,000 is met, each nonemployee director is required to hold 50% of the underlyingnet remaining shares of the common stock, (netwhether owned outright and/or acquired in connection with the vesting of any shares soldrestricted stock and/or restricted stock units, after satisfaction of applicable taxes (and in the case of stock options granted prior to coverJuly 2021, after satisfaction of applicable taxes and payment of the exercise price and applicable taxes)price) until the director’s Board service ends. The holding requirement does not apply to equity awards directors elect to receive in lieu of their cash retainers.

Expense Reimbursement Policy.    Directors are reimbursed for travel expenses related to their attendance at Board and committee meetings as well as for the costs of attending director continuing education programs.

The Our Board may change compensation and reimbursement arrangements for nonemployee directors from time to time.

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Edwards Lifesciences Corporation |    2018I2023 Proxy Statement

23


BOARD OF DIRECTORS MATTERS  



Outstanding Nonemployee Director Equity Awards

The following table sets forth, as of December 31, 2017,2022, the stock options and unvested stock awards (RSUs and restricted shares) held by each nonemployee director who served on theour Board in 2017.

      Option Awards      Stock Awards  
  Name  Grant Date  

Exercise
Price

($)

  Unvested
Option
Awards
(#)
 Option Awards
Vested and
Outstanding
(#)
       Stock Awards  
  Not Vested  
  (#)  

 

Mr. Gallahue

   

 

 

 

02/19/2015

 

   

 

$

 

66.860

 

   

 

 

 

3,584

 

(1)

  

 

 

 

7,168

 

(1) 

     

 

 

 

 

    05/12/2017    110.590       2,352(2)       
    05/12/2017                 2,034(3) 
           

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total

              9,520          2,034
           

 

 

      

 

 

 

 

Ms. Heisz

   

 

 

 

07/14/2016

 

   

 

 

 

107.030

 

   

 

 

 

4,372

 

(1)

  

 

 

 

2,185

 

(1) 

     

 

 

 

 

    05/12/2017    110.590       2,352(2)       
    05/12/2017                 2,034(3) 
           

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total

              4,537      2,034
           

 

 

      

 

 

 

 

Dr. Link

   

 

 

 

05/12/2017

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

     

 

 

 

2,034

 

(3) 

    05/12/2017                 588(4) 
           

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total

                    2,622
           

 

 

      

 

 

 

 

Mr. Loranger

   

 

 

 

05/12/2016

 

   

 

 

 

105.590

 

   

 

 

 

4,400

 

(1)

  

 

 

 

2,199

 

(1) 

     

 

 

 

 

    05/12/2017                 2,034(3) 
    05/12/2017                 588(4) 
           

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total

              2,199      2,622
           

 

 

      

 

 

 

 

Ms. Marsh

   

 

 

 

11/19/2015

 

   

 

 

 

77.965

 

   

 

 

 

3,192

 

(1)

  

 

 

 

6,382

 

(1) 

     

 

 

 

 

    05/12/2017                 2,034(3) 
           

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total

              6,382      2,034
           

 

 

      

 

 

 

 

Mr. von Schack

   

 

 

 

05/12/2017

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

     

 

 

 

2,034

 

(3) 

    05/12/2017                 588(4) 
           

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total

                    2,622
           

 

 

      

 

 

 

 

Mr. Valeriani

   

 

 

 

11/13/2014

 

   

 

 

 

62.275

 

   

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

11,536

 

(1) 

     

 

 

 

 

    05/12/2017                 2,034(3) 
           

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total

              11,536      2,034
           

 

 

      

 

 

 
                                   

(1)

Initial stock option awards vest one-third annually on the anniversary of the grant date, subject to the nonemployee director’s continued service on the Board.

(2)

Annual retainer fees deferred into stock options under the Deferral Election Program vest 100% immediately upon grant.

(3)

Annual awards vest on the earlier of (i) the one-year anniversary of the grant date or (ii) the date of the next regular annual meeting of stockholders at which members of the Board are to be elected.

(4)

Annual retainer fees deferred into restricted shares under the Deferral Election Program vest on the earlier of (i) the one-year anniversary of the grant date or (ii) the date of the next regular annual meeting of stockholders at which members of the Board are to be elected.

LOGO     2022.

  
Option Awards
 
Stock Awards
 
NameGrant DateExercise
Price
($)
Unvested
Option
Awards
(#)
Option Awards
Vested and
Outstanding
(#)
Stock Awards
Not Vested
(#)
   
Mr. Gallahue05/12/201736.86337,056
 05/04/2022
2,300(1)
 05/04/2022
737(2)
   
Total  7,0563,037
   
   
Ms. Heisz07/14/201635.67679,671
 05/12/201736.86337,056
 05/18/201845.31675,739
 05/08/202072.61333,099
 05/04/2022
2,300(1)
05/04/2022108.6500
2,209(3)
   
Total  27,7742,300
   
   
Mr. LaViolette05/04/2022
2,300(1)
   
Total  2,300
   
   
Mr. Loranger05/18/201845.31675,739
 05/08/202072.61334,134
 05/05/202191.77003,270
05/04/2022
2,300(1)
 05/04/2022
737(2)
   
Total  13,1433,037
   
   
Ms. Marsh05/04/2022
2,300(1)
   
Total  2,300
   
   
Ms. Sequeira05/04/2022
2,300(1)
   
Total  2,300
   
   
Mr. Valeriani05/04/2022
2,300(1)
   
   
Total  2,300
   
(1)    Annual awards vest on the earlier of the one-year anniversary of the grant date and the date of the next regular annual meeting of stockholders at which members of our Board are to be elected, subject to earlier vesting in the event of the nonemployee director’s death or disability or in connection with a change in control of Edwards.
(2)    Annual retainer fees deferred into restricted shares under the Deferral Election Program vest on the earlier of the one-year anniversary of the grant date and the date of the next regular annual meeting of stockholders at which members of our Board are to be elected, subject to earlier vesting in the event of the nonemployee director’s death or disability or in connection with a change in control of Edwards.
(3)    Annual retainer fees deferred into stock options under the Deferral Election Program are vested upon grant.









Edwards Lifesciences Corporation |    2018I2023 Proxy Statement21

24




SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

The following table sets forth certain information regarding beneficial ownership of theour Company’s common stock as of February 28, 2018 by each stockholder known by theour Company to own beneficially more than 5% of the Company’s common stock. Percent of beneficial ownership is based upon 210,437,220 shares of the Company’s common stock outstanding as of January 31, 2023.
Principal Stockholder Name and AddressTotal Shares Beneficially OwnedPercentage of Class
The Vanguard Group(1)
100 Vanguard Blvd.
Malvern, PA 19355
51,559,3918.34%
BlackRock, Inc.(2)
55 East 52nd Street
New York, NY 10055
53,060,5088.60%
(1)    Based solely on information contained in the Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC by The Vanguard Group, on its own behalf, on February 28, 2018.

  Principal Stockholder Name and Address  

Total Shares

Beneficially

Owned

  

 Percentage 

of Class

   

 

BlackRock, Inc.(1)

55 East 52nd Street

New York, NY 10055

 

    15,410,737    

 

7.32

 

%

 

 

 

The Vanguard Group(2)

100 Vanguard Blvd.

Malvern, PA 19355

 

    21,328,999    

 

10.14

 

%

 

  

(1)

Based solely on information contained in the Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC by BlackRock, Inc. on its own behalf, on January 29, 2018. The Schedule 13G/A indicates BlackRock, Inc. has sole voting power for 13,392,921 shares and sole dispositive power for 15,410,737 shares.

(2)

Based solely on information contained in the Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC by The Vanguard Group, on its own behalf, on February 9, 2018. The Schedule 13G/A indicates The Vanguard Group has sole voting power for 300,699 shares, shared voting power for 44,779 shares, sole dispositive power for 20,990,147 shares and shared dispositive power for 338,852 shares.

9, 2023. The Schedule 13G/A indicates The Vanguard Group had shared voting power for 919,995 shares, sole dispositive power for 48,970,628 shares and shared dispositive power for 2,588,763 shares as of December 31, 2022.

(2)    Based solely on information contained in the Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC by BlackRock, Inc. on its own behalf, on February 7, 2023. The Schedule 13G/A indicates BlackRock, Inc. had sole voting power for 47,532,373 shares and sole dispositive power for 53,060,508 shares as of December 31, 2022.
The following table sets forth certain information regarding beneficial ownership of theour Company’s common stock as of February 28, 2018January 31, 2023, by (i) each of theour NEOs (as named below); (ii) each of our directors;current directors and director nominees; and (iii) all of our current directors and executive officers as a group. Percent of beneficial ownership is based upon 210,437,220608,313,396 shares of theour Company’s common stock outstanding as of February 28, 2018.

January 31, 2023.

Under the column “RSUs and Shares Underlying Options,” we include the number of shares that could be acquired within 60 days of February 28, 2018January 31, 2023, pursuant to the exercise of stock options or the vesting of stock unit awards. These shares are not deemed outstanding for purposes of computing the beneficial ownership of any other person. Unless otherwise indicated, we believe that the stockholders listed have sole voting and investment power with respect to all shares, subject to applicable community property laws.

  Named Executive Officers, Executive Officers and Directors:  Outstanding
Shares
Beneficially
Owned
(1)
  RSUs and
Shares
Underlying
Options
  Total
Shares
Beneficially
Owned
  

 Percentage 

of Class

   

 

Mr. Mussallem

 

   

 

 

 

 

822,032

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

1,566,820

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

2,388,852

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

1.14

 

 

%

 

  

 

Mr. Ullem

 

   

 

 

 

 

61,659

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

264,011

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

325,970

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

*

 

 

 

  

 

Mr. Bobo

 

   

 

 

 

 

88,640

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

251,683

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

339,801

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

*

 

 

 

  

 

Ms. Szyman

 

   

 

 

 

 

14,424

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

53,996

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

68,420

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

*

 

 

 

  

 

Mr. Wood

 

   

 

 

 

 

98,828

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

156,377

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

255,205

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

*

 

 

 

  

 

Mr. Gallahue

 

   

 

 

 

 

11,566

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

13,104

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

24,670

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

*

 

 

 

  

 

Ms. Heisz

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

4,537

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

4,537

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

*

 

 

 

  

 

Dr. Link

 

   

 

 

 

 

38,562

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

38,562

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

*

 

 

 

  

 

Mr. Loranger

 

   

 

 

 

 

7,529

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

2,199

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

9,728

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

*

 

 

 

  

 

Ms. Marsh

 

   

 

 

 

 

1,941

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

6,382

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

8,323

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

*

 

 

 

  

 

Mr. von Schack

 

   

 

 

 

 

37,894

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

37,894

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

*

 

 

 

  

 

Mr. Valeriani

 

   

 

 

 

 

4,983

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

11,536

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

16,519

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

*

 

 

 

  

 

All directors and executive officers as a group (14 persons)

 

   

 

 

 

 

1,297,645

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

2,574,521

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

3,872,088

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

1.84

 

 

%

 

     

*

Less than 1%

(1)

Includes shares held by family trust, members of his or her household, or jointly as follows: Mr. Mussallem, 698,095; Mr. Ullem, 61,659; Mr. Bobo, 67,968; Ms. Szyman, 3,942; Mr. Gallahue, 11,566; Dr. Link, 16,000; and Mr. von Schack, 5,000.

22    LOGO     

Named Executive Officers, Executive Officers and Directors
Outstanding
Shares
Beneficially
Owned
(1)
RSUs and
Shares
Underlying
Options
Total
Shares
Beneficially
Owned
 Percentage of Class
Mr. Mussallem3,941,1281,386,8985,328,026*
Mr. Zovighian8,45185,40093,851*
Mr. Ullem257,822311,925569,747*
Mr. Wood189,093163,651352,744*
Mr. Lemercier154,212209,854364,066*
Mr. Gallahue60,1847,05667,240*
Mr. Loranger64,58013,14377,723*
Mr. Valeriani63,81163,811*
Ms. Marsh26,77726,777*
Ms. Heisz25,18027,77452,954*
Ms. Sequeira5,9185,918*
Mr. LaViolette2,6152,615*
All current directors and executive officers as a group
(15 persons)
5,029,0782,843,6107,872,6881.29%
*    Less than 1%
(1)    Includes shares held by family trust, members of his/her household, in the 401(k) Plans, or jointly, as follows: Mr. Mussallem, 3,844,722; Mr. Ullem, 257,822; Mr. Wood, 496; Mr. Lemercier, 45,000; Mr. Bobo, 155,587; Mr. Gallahue, 60,184; Mr. Loranger, 15,000; and Ms. Sequeira, 5,918.










Edwards Lifesciences Corporation |    2018I2023 Proxy Statement

25




EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

Set forth below is the biographical information regarding our current executive officers, other than Mr.Messrs. Mussallem and Zovighian, whose biographical information is set forth under “Proposal 1—Election of Directors—Director Nominees” above. None of the executive officers has any family relationship with any other executive officer or any of our directors.

LOGO

ew-20230327_g44.jpg

Donald E. Bobo, Jr., age 56.61. Mr. Bobo has been Corporate Vice President since 2007 and is currently responsible for Edwards’ corporate strategy and corporate development functions. In addition, Mr. Bobo has executive responsibility for the Company’s disease awareness and heart failure initiatives, as well as the U.S. healthcare solutions and commercial services team. Mr. Bobo has more than 3035 years of experience in the medical productstechnology and healthcare industry and has served in various operating roles at Edwards, including, most recently, the leadershipdevelopment of the Company’s transcatheter mitralTranscatheter Mitral and tricuspid therapies organizationTricuspid Therapies strategy, Vice President and General Manager of the global heart valve therapySurgical Structural Heart business and global valve manufacturing operations. Prior to joining Edwards in 1995, Mr. Bobo held a variety of roles with increasing levels of responsibility with American Hospital Supply and Baxter Healthcare Corporation. Mr. Bobo has served on the Board of Innerspace Neuro Solutions Inc. since 2013.Corporation, including research and development, business development, operations and general management. He has served on the Boardboard and Executive Committeeexecutive committee of the California Life Sciences Association since 2015 and served as its Chairmanchairman of the Boardboard from 2017 to 2018.
ew-20230327_g45.jpg
Daveen Chopra, age 44. Mr. Chopra has been Corporate Vice President, Transcatheter Mitral and Tricuspid Therapies (TMTT) since January 2023. Mr. Chopra previously served as Corporate Vice President, Surgical Structural Heart, since May 2017.

2018. Mr. Chopra has broad experience in the medical technology industry, including global leadership in strategy, marketing, commercial operations, research and development, and program management. Prior to joining Edwards, Mr. Chopra held various roles with increasing levels of responsibility at Medtronic plc, a medical technology, services and solutions company, from 2005 to 2018, culminating in a global leadership role as Vice President and General Manager of Medtronic’s Aortic Franchise. Mr. Chopra’s previous roles at Medtronic include Vice President of Global Marketing, leading Medtronic’s Endovascular Therapies Business. While in Medtronic’s Endovascular Therapies Business, he served as Vice President, U.S. Commercial Operations, Director of Program Management Office, Senior Business Manager for the Endovascular and Peripheral Business in Asia-Pacific, Global Group Product Manager for Thoracic Stent Grafts, and International Aortic Product Manager. Prior to Medtronic, Mr. Chopra served as an international strategy consultant at The Parthenon Group supporting clients in various industries ranging from education to industrial manufacturing. In 2020, he joined the board of the Edwards Lifesciences Foundation, and, in 2021, he joined the board of Octane.

LOGO

ew-20230327_g46.jpg
Jean-Luc Lemercier,,age 60.65. Mr. Lemercier has been Corporate Vice President, EMEAEMEACLA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa),Africa, Canada and Latin AmericaAmerica) since July 2017.2017, and assumed leadership of JAPAC (Japan, Asia Pacific and Greater China) in August 2022. Prior to assuming his current role, Mr. Lemercier served as Vice President of Transcatheter Heart Valves EMEA, from 2008.2008 to 2017. Under his leadership, Edwards has successfully launched the SAPIEN transcatheter heart valve technology and built its leadership position in Europe. BeforePrior to joining Edwards, Mr. Lemercier served in various leadership roles with Johnson & Johnson Cordis from 1996 to 2008, including leader of the structural heart disease group in the United States;States, Vice President of New Business Development in Europe;Europe, Vice President of the Cordis Cardiology Division in Belgium;Belgium, and General Manager of Cordis France. Mr. Lemercier has more than 30 years of medical technology experience, beginning with Baxter in France, and held several sales and marketing management positions within Baxter in both Europe and the United States. Mr. Lemercier has served on the Boardboard of CARMAT since January 2017.


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 26


LOGO     

ew-20230327_g47.jpg

Catherine M. Szyman,age 51.56. Ms. Szyman has been Corporate Vice President, Critical Care, since 2015.2015 and is currently responsible for the Company’s global critical care and vascular business. Under her leadership, Edwards has experienced successful sales growth in the Critical Care business unit. Prior to 2015, she was employed for more than 20 years at Medtronic LLC,plc, where she served as its Senior Vice President and President of Medtronic’s global diabetesGlobal Diabetes business from 2009 to 2014, overseeing research, development, operations, sales and marketing for Medtronic’s insulin infusion pumps and continuous glucose monitoring systems. Prior to that, she held a variety of leadership roles at Medtronic, including Senior Vice President of Corporate Strategy and Business Development, General Manager of Endovascular Innovations and Vice President of Finance for the Cardiovascular Business. Ms. Szyman serves on the boards of Outset Medical Inc., Inari Medical Inc., and the American Heart Association of Orange County, and joined the board of the Edwards Lifesciences Foundation in 2015. Ms. Szyman previously served on the Boardsboards of Octane, Tornier, Inspire Medical Systems, and the California Healthcare Institute.

LOGO     Edwards Lifesciences Corporation    |    2018 Proxy Statement23

Institute and the Edwards Lifesciences Foundation.


  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  

LOGO

ew-20230327_g48.jpg

Scott B. Ullem,age 51.56. Mr. Ullem becamehas been Corporate Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, insince January 2014. In addition, Mr. Ullem has executive responsibility for the Company’s information technology, information security, risk management, indirect sourcing, and corporate services teams. Prior to joining Edwards, he served from May 2010 to December 2013 as Chief Financial Officer of Bemis Company Inc., a Fortune 500 publicly traded global supplier of packaging and pressure sensitive materials used in leading food, consumer, and healthcare products.products, from May 2010 to December 2013. Mr. Ullem also had leadership responsibility for one of Bemis’ three business segments and the company’s information technology function. Before joiningPrior to Bemis, Mr. Ullem spent 17 years in investment banking, serving as Managing Director at Goldman Sachs and later forat Bank of America. HeSince 2016, he has served on the Board and Compensation Committeeboard of directors of Berry Plastics Group,Global Inc. since 2016 and is a member of the compensation committee, the audit committee and the capital allocation committee. He is also a Henry Crown Fellow at the Aspen Institute.

LOGO

Huimin Wang, M.D., age 61. Dr. Wang has been Corporate Vice President, Japan, Asia and Pacific since 2010. From 2004 to 2010, he served as Corporate Vice President, Japan and Intercontinental Regions and was Corporate Vice President, Japan from 2000 to 2004. Previously, he served in a number of roles with Baxter Healthcare Corporation, including Senior Manager of Strategy Development, Director of Product/Therapy for the Renal Division in Japan, President of Medical Systems and Devices in Japan, and was a representative director of Baxter Limited, a Japan corporation, through September 2002. Before joining Baxter, Dr. Wang was a senior associate with Booz, Allen & Hamilton in Chicago, Vice President of Integrated Strategies, a consulting and venture management firm heco-founded, and an associate with McKinsey & Company. Dr. Wang is a Visiting Associate Professor of anesthesiology at Keio University.

LOGO

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Larry L. Wood,age 52.57. Mr. Wood has been Corporate Vice President and Group President, Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) and Surgical Structural Heart, Valves since 2007, and is responsible for Edwards’ key initiativesJanuary 2023. Mr. Wood previously served asCorporate Vice President, TAVR, since 2007. Under his leadership, Edwards has experienced extraordinary growth in transcatheter heart valve replacement around the globe, including research and development, operations, marketing, commercial clinical and regulatory initiatives. Most recently priorglobal TAVR business. Prior to assuming his current role, from March 2004 to February 2007, he served as Vice President and General Manager, Percutaneous Valve Interventions.Interventions, from 2004 to 2007. Mr. Wood has more than 3035 years of experience in the medical technology industry at both Edwards and Baxter Healthcare Corporation in positions including manufacturing management, regulatory affairs and strategic and clinical marketing, primarily for the surgical heart valve therapy business.

 Mr. Wood is a frequently invited faculty member at key interventional cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery scientific congresses. He previously held key positions in manufacturing management, regulatory affairs, and strategic and clinical marketing, primarily in the Company’s leading surgical heart valve franchise. Mr. Wood is also a passionate supporter of the United Way Orange County’s Destination Graduation Program which encourages at-risk high school students to graduate and pursue higher education.

24    LOGO     






















Edwards Lifesciences Corporation |    2018I2023 Proxy Statement

27


EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  


COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

This Compensation Discussion and Analysis describes and provides disclosure about the objectives and policies underlying our executive compensation programs.

Edwards’ 2022 NEOs are as follows:
NEO Names and Current Positions
Michael A. Mussallem
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
Scott B. Ullem
Corporate Vice President, Chief Financial Officer
Jean-Luc Lemercier
Corporate Vice President, EMEACLA (Europe, Middle East, Africa, Canada and Latin America) and JAPAC (Japan, Asia Pacific and Greater China)1
Larry L. Wood
Corporate Vice President and Group President, Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement and Surgical Structural Heart2
Bernard J. Zovighian
President3
(1) Transitioned from Corporate Vice President, EMEACLA, to this position on August 1, 2022.
(2) Transitioned from Corporate Vice President, Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement, to this position on January 1, 2023.
(3) Transitioned from Corporate Vice President, Transcatheter Mitral and Tricuspid Therapies (TMTT), to this position on January 1, 2023.
Executive Summary

Edwards is the global leader inpatient-focused medical innovations for structural heart disease as well asand critical care and surgical monitoring. Driven by a passion to help patients, we collaboratepartner with the world’s leading clinicians and researchers and invest in research and development to address unmet healthcare needs, working to improve patient outcomes and enhance lives.

transform care for those impacted by structural heart disease or who require hemodynamic monitoring in the hospital setting.

Pay-for-Performance Philosophy.    The    Our Compensation and Governance Committee strives to create apay-for-performance culture and strongly believes that executive compensation should be tied not only to performance but also directly to the successful implementation of our long-term corporate strategy.

We embrace a corporate strategyare driven by our culture that puts patients first and our long-term corporate strategy that creates value with therapies that transform care. We executecare and focuses on large, under-treated diseases. Our annual plan is essential to executing our strategy by focusing onand seeks to do the right thing for patients, identifying unmet clinical needs and developing breakthrough therapies, doing so in a way that establisheswhile maintaining trusted relationships with our stakeholders. As a direct result of our strategy, we have introduced new therapies, such as transcatheter aortic valve replacement,rapid-deployment novel resilient surgical heart valves and noninvasive advanced hemodynamic monitoring, all while achieving our stated financial and operating objectives, and strengtheningwe have strengthened our leadership positions. ManagingSuccessfully managing our business well in a challenging, highly regulated, dynamic environment requires talented and energetic leaders who champion our strategy and deliver on our commitments.

Our executive compensation programs are designed to emphasizeperformance-based compensation, reward financial performance and the implementation of our corporate strategy and align the financial interests of our executives with those of our long-term stockholders.




Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 28


EDWARDS’ CORPORATE STRATEGY INFORMS PAY DESIGN

LOGO

LOGO     Edwards Lifesciences Corporation    |    2018 Proxy Statement25


  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  

Long-term incentive awards are designed to align the financial interests of our executives with those of stockholders. Awards granted to our NEOs in 2017 included stock options, PBRSUs andtime-based RSUs. The value of stock options is dependent upon stock price appreciation after the date of grant of the award, reinforcing theperformance-based nature of these awards. Edwards continues to believe the use of stock options is appropriate and essential to retain executive talent and reinforce ourlong-term growth strategy, as a company focused on exceptional revenue growth, strong profitability, andlong-term stockholder returns. The payout of PBRSUs is based on relative TSR over athree-year period compared to apre-selected peer group. Since RSUs are paid out in shares of Edwards’ stock, their value is also directly linked to stock price.

Edwards’ 2017 NEOs are as follows:

NEO NAMES AND POSITIONS

Michael A. Mussallem

    Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

Scott B. Ullem

    Corporate Vice President, Chief Financial Officer

Donald E. Bobo

    Corporate Vice President, Strategy and Corporate Development

Catherine M. Szyman

    Corporate Vice President, Critical Care

Larry L. Wood

    Corporate Vice President, Transcatheter Heart Valves

2017ew-20230327_g27.jpg


2022 Financial and Operating Performance.     Overall, we achieved outstanding    As noted in the chart above, the financial component of our Company’s Annual Cash Incentive compensation was reintroduced for the 2022 year after having been suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our financial results and operating performance in 2017, exceeding2022 were significantly impacted by the pandemic. Procedure rates were highly variable around the globe, leading to lower full Company sales compared to expectations. Treatments were delayed due to hospital prioritization of COVID-19 patients, hospital staffing shortages and patients deferring treatment. Although we saw recovery during 2022, we faced significant headwinds in December 2022 due to a surge in COVID-19 outbreaks, and our goalsfinancial performance was below original expectations. Despite the impact of these headwinds, 2022 was a year of significant milestones and investments for Edwards. Our total sales for fiscal year 2022 were $5.4 billion, an increase in underlying revenue growth net incomefor the year of approximately 8% over the prior year. We achieved 12% growth in adjusted earnings per share while also increasing R&D by 5%.1 The significant increase in R&D and free cash flow. We also madeinfrastructure investments in fiscal 2022 helped strengthen our longer-term outlook.
Even with the challenges we faced during the global pandemic, we continued to make important progress on future advancements for patients.

Strong sales growthpatients:


    Invested in increasing disease and therapy awareness, pursued further therapy expansion, and advanced new technologies in transcatheter aortic valve replacement. In 2022, we received approval of 16% was driven by:

Clinician and patient preferences for our innovative transcatheter valve therapies, including the best-in-class Edwards SAPIEN 3 Ultra RESILIA valve in the U.S. incorporating Edwards’ breakthrough RESILIA tissue technology in the industry-leading SAPIEN 3 Ultra transcatheter heart valve;

aortic valve.  Separately, we continued to advance enrollment in our PROGRESS pivotal trial for moderate AS patients and our ALLIANCE pivotal trial to study our next-generation TAVR technology, the SAPIEN X4 system;

Continued    Achieved our significant 2022 milestones in transcatheter mitral and tricuspid therapies, as we continued to make meaningful progress on advancing our three key value drivers: a portfolio of pioneering therapies for patients, positive pivotal trial results to support approvals and adoption, and favorable real-world clinical outcomes. We received European regulatory approval for PASCAL Precision, a unique system designed for transcatheter-based edge-to-edge leaflet repair in patients suffering from mitral and tricuspid regurgitation. We also received U.S. FDA approval for the PASCAL Precision system for the treatment of patients with degenerative mitral regurgitation;

1     “Underlying growth rate” and “adjusted earnings per share” are non-GAAP items. Refer to Appendix A for reconciliation to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures.

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 29


    Extended our leadership in surgical aortic valves through the continued adoption of our newest surgicaltechnologies, the INSPIRIS RESILIA aortic valve, therapy systems, Edwards INTUITY Elitethe KONECT RESILIA aortic tissue valved conduit, and INSPIRIS RESILIA; and

Broad usethe launch of our critical care technologies, includingMITRIS RESILIA valve; and

    Advanced leadership in Critical Care with the recently launched HemoSphere next-generationcontinued introduction of advanced monitoring platform.

Additionally, we continued to invest aggressively in our technology pipeline and infrastructure, growing research and development investments by 25% to advance our transformational transcatheter structural heart programs.

26    LOGO     Edwards Lifesciences Corporation    |    2018 Proxy Statement

Smart Recovery algorithms for patients.


  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  


Stock Performance.    One indicator of ourpay-for-performance culture is the relationship of our NEOs’ target total direct compensation to total stockholder return. Over the past five years, on average, 88%90% of theour CEO’s target total direct compensation has beenperformance-based, and 73% is76% has been tied to the performance of Edwards’ stock. As a general indicator, theour Compensation and Governance Committee considers Edwards’ total return to stockholders as well as how Edwards’ cumulative total return to stockholders compares to both the S&P 500 Index and the S&P Healthcare Equipment Select Industry Index (the “SPHESI”).SPSIHE when determining compensation. The table below illustrates our Company’s 5-year cumulative total stockholder return on common stock with the cumulative total returns of the S&P 500 Index and the SPHESI.

SPSIHE. The cumulative total return listed below assumes an initial investment of $100 at the market close on December 31, 2017, and reinvestment of dividends. Stockholder returns over the indicated period should not be considered indicative of future stockholder returns.

COMPARISON OF 5-YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN*

LOGO

*

$100

ew-20230327_g28.jpg
*    $100 invested at market close on December 31, 2012 in stock or index, including reinvestment of dividends. Fiscal year ending December 31. The stock price performance included in this graph is not necessarily indicative of future stock price performance.

2017, in stock or index, including reinvestment of dividends. The stock price performance included in this graph is not necessarily indicative of future stock price performance.


2022 Annual Incentive Plan.    As the pandemic eased, our Board expected 2022 to return to pre-COVID-19 normalcy. In January 2022, our Board approved the 2022 Annual Incentive Plan, Outcomes andLong-Term Incentives.    Thereturning to the historical plan that includes the following three measures used to evaluateelements:
    the corporate financial achievement under our annual cash incentive plan weremeasurement (based on underlying revenue growth, net incomeadjusted earnings per share and adjusted free cash flow all computed ontargets);
    the Key Operating Drivers (“KODs”) (quantifiable strategic milestones that include financial objectives and are tracked using anon-GAAP basis. points system across our entire organization); and
    individual performance.
2022 Corporate Annual Incentive Plan Outcomes.   In January 2023, our Board of Directors approved the 2022 KOD achievement at 113% of target. Our financial results in 2017 surpassed the cash incentive plan targets of achievement for all three of these measures by significant margins, andperformance resulted in financial performanceachievement at 175%61% of target under the cash incentive plan. In addition, our overall achievement of KODs for 2017 was 122%.target. Accordingly, our cash incentive plan for corporate employees funded at 175%69% of target. Final incentive amounts for theour NEOs for 20172022 also took into account each employee’s individual performance, as more fully described below underperformance. See “Elements of Compensation—Annual Cash Incentive Payment.”

The PBRSUs awarded to NEOs in 2014 that vested in 2017 were based on Edwards’ TSR over athree-year performance period relative toPayment” below for additional information regarding the TSRannual cash incentive payment.

Consideration of the SPHESI subset for that same period. The payout of these PBRSUs tracked the strong performance of our stock after thethree-year period and paid out at 175% of target, as more fully described under “Elements of Compensation—Determination as to 2014 PBRSU Awards.”

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  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  

Compensation Program Highlights.    The Compensation Committee believes that its executive compensation and benefits philosophy and objectives have resulted in programs that align executives with stockholder interests.

LOGO

WHAT WE DO

  ✓

Pay-for-Performance. Approximately 89% of the total direct compensation of our CEO, and an average of 78% of the total direct compensation of our other NEOs, wasperformance-based in 2017.

  ✓

Linkage Between Performance Measures and Strategic Imperatives. Performance measures for incentive compensation are linked to our Strategic Imperatives through achievement of KODs and are designed to createlong-term stockholder value and hold executives accountable for their individual and Edwards’ performance.

  ✓

Performance-Based Equity. Our PBRSUs vest based on our relative TSR over athree-year period.

  ✓

Minimum Three-Year Vesting. Equity compensation is structured to vest over a minimum period of three years, subject to limited exceptions.

  ✓

Robust Executive Stock Ownership Guidelines with Holding Period Requirements. Executives are required to hold Edwards’ stock with a value not less than six-times salary for our CEO and three-times salary for each other NEO. Fifty percent of net shares received as equity compensation must be retained until the guideline has been met.

  ✓

CEO Stock Ownership. Our CEO far exceeds hissix-times salary ownership guideline and has continued to increase his ownership of Edwards’ stock each year.

  ✓

Modest Perquisites. We provide modest perquisites and have a business rationale for the perquisites that we do provide.

  ✓

“Double Trigger” in the Event of a Change in Control. Severance benefits are paid, and equity compensation awarded starting in May 2015 accelerates in connection with a severance, only upon a “double trigger” in connection with a change in control (meaning a termination of the executive’s employment is required, in addition to the occurrence of a change in control, in order for the benefits to be triggered).

  ✓

Use of Tally Sheets. The Compensation Committee annually reviews summaries of prior and potential future compensation levels (referred to as “tally sheets”) when making compensation decisions.

  ✓

“Clawback” Policy. We maintain a recoupment policy forperformance-based compensation.

  ✓

Independent Compensation Consultant. The Compensation Committee engages an independent compensation consulting firm that provides us with no other services.

LOGO

WHAT WE DON’T DO

No excise tax gross-ups for executive officers.

No repricing or buyout of underwater stock options.

No pledging of Edwards’ securities by directors, executives, employees with a title of “vice president” or above, and “insiders” under our insider trading policy.

No hedging of Edwards’ securities by directors, executives, employees with a title of “vice president” or above, and “insiders” under our insider trading policy.

Consideration ofSay-on-Pay Vote Results.    At our 20172022 annual meeting, our stockholders cast an advisory vote on the compensation of our NEOs (a“say-on-pay” “say-on-pay” vote). Approximately 95%90% of the votes cast on this proposal voted in favor of


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 30


our NEO compensation. We believe this vote reflects stockholders’ continued strong support of our compensation programs for our NEOs. TheOur Compensation and Governance Committee will continue to consider the results ofsay-on-pay votes along with the feedback received from stockholders received through the stockholder outreach program when making future compensation decisions for theour NEOs.

Compensation Philosophy and Objectives for NEOs.    Our compensation programs are designed to attract, retain, motivate and engage executives with superior leadership and management capabilities to enhance stockholder value. Within this overall philosophy, our objectives are to:

offer programs that place a higher emphasis onperformance-based compensation than fixed compensation;

28    LOGO     Edwards Lifesciences Corporation    |    2018 Proxy Statement


  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  

align the financial interests of executives with those of our long-term stockholders; and

provide compensation that is competitive.

We strongly believe that a significant amount of compensation for theour NEOs should be composed ofshort- short-term andlong-term incentives, orat-risk pay, to focus the executives onnear-term goals and strategic initiatives. The amount of suchshort- short-term andlong-term incentive compensation is dependent on achievement of our annual goals, individual performance, andlong-term increases in the value of our stock. The targetIn this Proxy Statement, “target total direct compensationcompensation” for each NEO consists of (i) base salary, (ii) Incentive Pay Objective (as defined under “Elements of Compensation—Annual Cash Incentive Payment” below), and(iii) long-term incentive awards (presented in the charts below using theirgrant-date fair target equity mix values).

The charts below illustrate the percentage weighting of each compensation vehicle that comprise the 20172022 target total direct compensation for theour CEO and the average for the other NEOs.

LOGOLOGO


ew-20230327_g50.jpgew-20230327_g51.jpg
Compensation Process.    The    Our Compensation and Governance Committee is responsible for discussing, evaluating and approving the compensation of theour CEO and theour other NEOs, including the specific objectives and target performance levels to be included in our executive compensation plans. TheOur CEO and other members of the executive leadership team develop our Strategic Imperatives as well as the KODs that measure our achievement of these imperatives. TheOur Board reviews and approves the Strategic Imperatives and KODs at the start of every year. TheOur CEO provides input to theour Compensation and Governance Committee afteryear-end regarding achievement of our Strategic Imperatives and KODs and the way results were achieved.KODs. In addition, theour CEO and theour Corporate Vice President of Human Resources provide recommendations to theour Compensation and Governance Committee regarding compensation of theour NEOs (other than theour CEO). TheOur Compensation and Governance Committee then determines the compensation of theour CEO and reviews and approves the compensation of theour other NEOs.

The

Our CEO and theour Corporate Vice President of Human Resources are invited to, and regularly attend, Compensation and Governance Committee meetings asnon-voting guests. TheOur Compensation and Governance Committee regularly meets in executive session without participation by theour CEO or other management representatives. Meetings of the Compensation Committee may only be called by members of the Compensation Committee. In addition, our CEO and Corporate Vice President of Human Resources meet with theour Compensation Consultant as well as the Chair of our Compensation and Governance Committee in preparation for Compensation and Governance Committee meetings, and the Compensation Consultant also regularly attends Compensation and Governance Committee meetings and participates in executive sessions with theour Compensation and Governance Committee.


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 31


Independent Compensation Consultant.    The    Our Compensation Consultant, Semler Brossy Consulting Group, has been retained by and reports to theour Compensation and Governance Committee and provides executive and director compensation consulting services to theour Compensation and Governance Committee.

Semler Brossy’s responsibilities for fiscal 20172022 generally included:

Annual and periodic reviews of executive total compensation relative to peers;

Annual and periodic reviews of Directordirector total compensation;

Responses to    Annual and periodic reviews of our Company’s comparator group;

    Report on proxy advisory firms around Say-on-Paysay-on-pay and other compensation matters;

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  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  

Presentations on specialized areas, including 280G calculations, officer tally sheets, and plan summaries;

topics, as requested or applicable;

Reports to theour Compensation and Governance Committee on market trends and best practices in compensation; and

Attendance and participation in all Compensation and Governance Committee meetings and stockholder consultations, as requested.

The Compensation Consultant does not provide any other services to theour Board or theour Company. TheOur Compensation and Governance Committee has assessed the independence of the Compensation Consultant pursuant to the NYSE rules and determined that the Compensation Consultant is independent, and free of conflicts of interest with us or any of our directors or executive officers.

Use of Competitive Data.    We generally position each NEO’s target total direct compensation to approximate the median for comparable positions at competitive peer companies. However, in    In determining the appropriate positioning level of each NEO’s target total direct compensation and each component of compensation for an NEO, theour Compensation and Governance Committee also takes into account its assessment of theour Company’s or business unit’s general performance, as applicable for each executive, and the executive’s tenure, experience, level of individual performance and potential to contribute to our future growth. Accordingly, an NEO’s actual compensation may be higher or lower than the median for the position based on theour Compensation and Governance Committee’s assessment of these other factors. If theour Compensation and Governance Committee determines that changes are appropriate, it has the flexibility to make adjustments for one or more executives.

Consistent with our philosophy of emphasizing pay for performance, annual cash incentive payments are designed to be above Incentive Pay Objectives when we exceed our goals and below the Incentive Pay Objectives when we do not achieve our goals. In the event threshold levels of performance are not attained, no annual incentive payment is earned.

generally awarded.

For purposes of establishing the value of equity awards, stock options are valued as of the grant date using theBlack-Scholes valuation model. RSUs and commencing in 2015, PBRSUs are valued at the fair market value of the underlying shares on the grant date. Except as otherwise noted above or described below, theour Compensation and Governance Committee’s executive compensation determinations are subjective and the result of theour Compensation and Governance Committee’s business judgment, which is informed by the experiences of the members of theour Compensation and Governance Committee as well as the input from the Compensation Consultant and peer group data provided by the Compensation Consultant. In order to establish competitive compensation market data for theour NEOs, the Compensation Consultant uses public proxy information from companies primarily in the medical technology industry. These peer companies are chosen based on theour Compensation and Governance Committee’s assessment of their market capitalization, revenue, business focus, complexity, geographic location and the extent to which theour Compensation and Governance Committee believes they compete with us for executive talent (the “Comparator Group”). The composition of the Comparator Group is reviewed periodicallyannually to monitor the appropriateness of the profiles of the companies included so that the group continues to reflect our competitive market and provides statistical reliability.


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 32


The review of the Comparator Group for pay decisions in 20172022 was conducted in July 2016. For 2017, the Comparator Group consisted of the following companies:

Edwards’ 2017 Comparator Group

Abbott Laboratories

Integra Lifesciences Holdings Corporation

Agilent Technologies, Inc.

Intuitive Surgical, Inc.

Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Medtronic Plc

Becton, Dickinson and Company

PerkinElmer, Inc.

Boston Scientific Corporation

ResMed Inc.

C. R. Bard, Inc.

St. Jude Medical, Inc.*

The Cooper Companies, Inc.

Stryker Corporation

DENTSPLY SIRONA, Inc.

Teleflex, Inc.

Hologic, Inc.

Varian Medical Systems, Inc.

IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.

Waters Corporation

Illumina, Inc.

Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc.

*

Acquired by Abbott Laboratories subsequent to when the Compensation Committee determined the Comparator Group.

2021. After evaluating a series of qualitative and quantitative factors among other publicly traded U.S. companies in our industry, including scale, talent, business, and operational characteristics and overlap among peers, our Compensation and Governance Committee selected the Compensation Committee

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below companies as the Comparator Group for 2022. The group was the same as the Comparator Group for 2021, except that Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Varian Medical Systems, Inc. were acquired in 2021 and therefore removed.



  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  

Edwards’ 2022 Comparator Group
Abbott LaboratoriesHologic, Inc.
ABIOMED, Inc.IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.
Agilent Technologies, Inc.Illumina, Inc.
Align Technology, Inc.Intuitive Surgical, Inc.
Baxter International Inc.Medtronic plc
Becton, Dickinson and CompanyResMed Inc.
Boston Scientific CorporationStryker Corporation
The Cooper Companies, Inc.Teleflex, Inc.
DexCom, Inc.Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc.

added Abbott Laboratories, Agilent Technologies, Inc, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc., IDEXX Laboratories, Inc., Medtronic Plc, Teleflex, Inc. and Waters Corporation to the comparator group used to make 2017 executive compensation decisions.

As of July 1, 2016,May 15, 2021, Edwards ranked at the 58th63rd percentile of this group in terms of market capitalization. Compensation data are generally regressed for market capitalization to ensure that the data are not distorted by larger companies. Regression analysis is a commonly used technique tosize-adjust data, which allows for more statistically valid comparisons. The key measure used in our regression model is market capitalization. Based on this measure, the regression formula correlates and adjusts the raw data for base salary, total cash compensation and total direct compensation to predict those items based on the market capitalization for each of the Comparator Group companies.

Although data from the Comparator Group are the primary data input for compensation decisions for theour NEOs, consideration is given to compensation data for companies in the high technology, life sciences and medical technologyhealthcare-related industries as reported in the following nationally recognized surveys: Aon Hewitt’s U.S. Total Compensation Measurement Executive SurveyRadford Global Technology and RadfordGlobal Lifesciences Compensation Surveys. TheOur Compensation and Governance Committee considers both survey data are considered generally, without focusing on any one particular group or subset ofthat is healthcare-specific and also general industry data for companies included in the data (other than the Comparator Group identified above). Thewithin a similar size scope to Edwards. Our Compensation and Governance Committee believes it is appropriate to refer to these additional data because we compete with these types of companies for executive talent.

When compared

We do not target any specific percentile but instead consider the market data along with factors like the individual’s performance and context from the talent market more broadly to similar positions atdetermine our 2017 Comparator Group companies, target total direct compensation and the elements of compensation (base salary, annual cash incentive, andlong-term incentive award value) approximated or were below the median for all of theour NEOs.


























Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 33


Elements of Compensation.    The compensation package for each NEO consists primarily of (a)(i) base salary; (b)salary, (ii) an annual cash incentive payment based on attainment ofpre-established financial measures, operating goals, and individual performance;performance, and(c) long-termstock-based (iii) long-term stock-based incentive awards. Each of these three components of compensation is intended to promote one or more of our objectives of designing executive compensation that isperformance-based, is competitive, and aligns the interests of the executives with our stockholders, as further described in the Elements of Compensation Summary chart below.

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  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  

Elements of Compensation Summary

Element of Compensation

Why We Pay this Element

Compensation and Governance Committee’s Evaluation Criteria

Base Salary

Provides fixed compensation component payable in cash

Provides a certain level of security and continuity from year to year

Helps attract and retain qualified executives

In addition to competitive data, the executive’s responsibilities, tenure, prior experience and expertise, individual performance, future potential, and internal equity are considered

Annual Cash Incentive Payment

(see “Annual Cash Incentive Payment” section below)

Payment*


Provides variable compensation component payable in cash to motivate and reward executives for annual performance against annually established corporate financial measures, operating and strategic goals, and individual objectives

Recognizes executives based on their individual contributions

Isperformance-based and not guaranteed

  IncentiveHistorically, incentive plan funding iswas determined by multiplying:

Financial Measurement Achievement

(based on underlying revenue growth, net income
adjusted earnings per share, and adjusted free cash flow targets set at the beginning of the year)

year
)

The financial measurement multiplier may not exceed 175%
X

X

KOD Achievement

(based on strategic, corporate, and
business unit objectives determined at
the beginning of the year
)
The aggregate KOD multiplier
may not exceed 150%
X
Individual Performance
Objective Achievement
(determined at the beginning of the year)

year
)

X

Individual Performance Objective Achievement

(determined at the beginning of the year)

Up to a maximum of 200% of
pre-established
Incentive Pay Objective


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 34


Long-Term Incentive Awards

55% Stock Options

20% RSUs

25% PBRSUs


Aligning executives’ interests directly with those of stockholders; provides executives with an incentive to manage theour Company from the perspective of an owner

Stock options tie executive pay directly to stockholder value creation over the long term, promote executive retention, and are consistent with our focus ontop-line growth, innovation and ourlonger-term investment horizon and product pipeline

RSUs promote stability and retention of our executives over the long term

PBRSUs are measured against relative TSR, which links compensation to our performance over athree-year period against the performance of other companies

Since RSUs and PBRSUs are paid in shares of Edwards stock, these awards also further link executives’ interests with those of our long-term stockholders

Retains qualified employees

Isperformance- or stockprice-based and value is not guaranteed

The size and composition oflong-term incentive awards are determined annually by theour Compensation and Governance Committee, taking into account competitive total direct compensation pay positioning guidelines using market reference data from the Comparator Group, along with the individual executive’s level of responsibilities, ability to contribute to and influence ourlong-term results, and individual performance

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  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  

Element of Compensation

Benefits

Why We Pay this Element

Compensation Committee’s Evaluation Criteria

Benefits

  Provides a safety net to protectProtects against financial catastrophes that can result from illness, disability or death

A benefit program that is competitive with companies with which we compete for executive talent supports recruitment and retention of executives

Executives are eligible to participate in benefit programs on terms as are generally offered to other Company employees

Perquisites

Assists in attracting and retaining executives by enhancing the competitiveness of the executive’s compensation in a relatively inexpensive way

Enables executives to perform their responsibilities efficiently, maximize their working time, and minimize distractions

Modest perquisites, consistent with market practices


Base Salary.The    Our Compensation and Governance Committee generally reviews each NEO’s base salary in February and any approved changes are effective with the first pay period in April. The base salary for theour CEO is established in a similar manner and is described more fully under “Employment andPost-Termination Agreements” below. Base salaries paid to theour NEOs for 2022 increased between 2.0%3.0% and 5.5%4.5% in 20172022 over the level in effect in 20162021 to help maintain market competitiveness and based on theour Compensation and Governance Committee’s assessment of internal roles and contributions.

Annual Cash Incentive Payment.    All of theour NEOs and many other management andnon-management-level salaried employees (approximately 3,51716,905 employees) participated in the 20172022 Edwards Incentive Plan (the “Incentive Plan”).

The Our Compensation and Governance Committee utilizesestablishes for each NEO the amount of incentive payment that will be earned for targeted performance, referred to as the “Incentive Pay Objective.” Our Compensation and Governance Committee generally sets the Incentive Pay Objective at a level so that the total cash compensation (base salary plus incentive payment for expected performance) for theour NEOs will be at approximately the median of executives at comparable positions in the Comparator Group. TheOur Compensation Committee establishes for each NEO the amount of incentive payment that will be earned for expected performance, referred to as the “Incentive Pay Objective.”

The Compensationand Governance Committee then considers performance results to determine the actual cash incentive payments. In applying its discretion,


As described above, and discussed in more detail below, the Compensation Committee may reduce, but may not increase,actual Incentive Plan amount earned by each NEO is determined based on our financial performance, KOD achievement, and the cash incentive payment. Consequently, a reduction from the maximum amount is not necessarily a negative reflection onexecutive's individual performance.


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 35


The accompanying “Grants ofPlan-Based Awards in Fiscal Year 2017”2022” table below reports the maximum amounts payable and the Incentive Pay Objective (called the “Target” in the table) established for each NEO.

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  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  

The 2017 Incentive PlanNEO for 2022 as well as the NEOs was structured to preserve the tax deductibility of paymentsmaximum amount that could have been earned by each NEO under Section 162(m) (“Section 162(m)”) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”). See “Tax and Accounting Implications—Policy Regarding Section 162(m)” below. As such, the Incentive Plan for NEOs in 2017 provided that achievement at2022 had the thresholdmaximum performance levels been attained (which for each NEO is 200% of any one of three Company financial measures (revenue growth, net income and free cash flow) would result in initial funding for the NEO’s Incentive Pay Objective).


Incentive Plan being set at the maximum level. Then, theFunding—Components and Performance Measures

Our Compensation Committee applied its discretion in atwo-step process to determine the final annual cash incentive payments for the NEOs. Each of these two steps is discussed below:

(1)

Incentive Plan Funding

The Compensationand Governance Committee, after consultation with management, sets annual incentive performance goals each year for achievement of financial measures and KODs. Financial measures arenon-GAAP calculations generally on the same basis as contained in our financial guidance, subject to further adjustment to account for material developments during the year. In February 2017,2022, our Compensation and Governance Committee selected revenue growth (50% weighting); earnings per share (30% weighting); and free cash flow (20% weighting) as the Compensation Committeefinancial measures under the Incentive Plan for 2022 and initially established the financial measures at the threshold,minimum, target, and maximum financial measure performance levels set forth in the chart below.

Incentive Plan funding is determined after results of achievement of the predetermined Our Compensation and Governance Committee chooses financial measures that are tied to our performance which is intended to motivate and KODs are known.

The following illustration shows how the Incentive Plan is funded.

Financial

Measure

Achievement (%)

 X   

Key Operating

Driver

Achievement (%)

 =   

Actual

Incentive Plan

Funding (%)

Initially, the Board assesses the percentage of achievement ofpre-established Company financial measures. reward executives for our Company’s annual performance. No funding is earned if actual performance associated with at least one of the financial goals does not exceed thepre-established minimum threshold. All three thresholds were exceeded in 2017. Achievement of the maximum level specified for each financial goal would result in funding for this measure ata financial achievement multiplier of 175%.

For 2017, our financial goals,


Our Compensation and Governance Committee also established the corresponding weightings, were as follows: revenue growth (50% weighting); net income (30% weighting); and free cash flow (20% weighting). The following table sets forth the target level for each goal as well as the level of achievement required to reach the various levels of financial measure achievement. Interpolation is applied for results between the levels shown in the chart.

Based on the performance levels in the chart below, our financial measures funded at 175%.

2017 Company Financial Performance Measures*

   Percentage of Financial Measure Achievement
   

Minimum
(25%)

 

 

Target
(100%)

 

 

Maximum
(175%)

 

 

Actual
(175%)

 

 

 

Revenue Growth – 50% Weight

 

   

 

 

 

 

8.5

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

11.5

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

15.5

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

15.7

 

 

 

 

Net Income ($M) – 30% Weight

 

   

 

$

 

 

679

 

 

 

 

  

 

$

 

 

709

 

 

 

 

  

 

$

 

 

751

 

 

 

 

  

 

$

 

 

771

 

 

 

 

 

Free Cash Flow ($M) 20% Weight

 

   

 

$

 

 

564

 

 

 

 

  

 

$

 

 

614

 

 

 

 

  

 

$

 

 

664

 

 

 

 

  

 

$

 

 

691

 

 

 

 

*

Net Income used in setting and determining compensation is not calculated in accordance with GAAP and reflects adjustments for items such as litigation and a related not-for-profit contribution, tax, acquisition and investment-related gains and expenses, amortization expenses, foreign exchange fluctuations, the positive impact of transcatheter heart valve stocking sales in Germany, and the negative impact of de-stocking. Free Cash Flow is also a non-GAAP financial measure that is defined as cash flows from operating activities less capital expenditures, on a non-GAAP basis, excluding the impact of the receipt of a litigation payment, the amount of an escrow deposit related to the purchase of a building, tax benefits from stock-based compensation, litigation expenses, and a facility acquisition.

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  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  

The financial measure achievement is multiplied by the level of achievement ofpre-established Key Operating Drivers, or KODs. KODs, used under the Incentive Plan for 2022.The KODs are a rigorous set of milestones and metrics that are used throughout our Company to manage annual objectives at a more granular level. Annually, our Board establishes KODs each year to address specific business initiatives derived fromapproves our Company’s Strategic Imperatives, and operating plans.it is from these Strategic Imperatives that the KODs are derived. The KODs addresscontemplate near and long-term objectives of our multi-year strategy, and the KODs are how we translate these strategic goals into specific tangible and measurable progress towardquantifiable metrics to be achieved in any given year, holding all employees, including executives, accountable for our Company’s and their own performance.


For 2022, there were four Strategic Imperatives approved by our Board of Directors from which the KODs were derived:

Lead the global expansion of TAVR and focusestablish TAVR as the executive team onstandard of care for aortic stenosis
Transform the areastreatment of mitral and strategictricuspid valve disease
Strengthen and expand global presence in surgical heart valves and critical care
Prioritize culture, talent, and capabilities that support execution of the strategy

Underlying these Strategic Imperatives are approximately 80 specific KOD metrics and milestones relating to, among other things, research and development, commercial and financial milestones in each of the four business units, key initiatives most importantto increase patient access to our future success.therapies and specific milestones for global supply chain as it relates to launches of products, supply, capacity, quality, productivity, service and capabilities. We have establisheddo not disclose our KODs in detail because we believe doing so would cause a rangemeaningful competitive disadvantage.Approximately 25% of performance for each KOD with the expectation that the target range should be achievable with the expected level of performance.KODs include a financial component. Performance within the expected range results in a multiplier of 100%. Performance below the range is consideredsub-optimal and will result in a discount to the financial measure. Performance above the range is considered extraordinary and results in a multiplier above 100%. The aggregate KOD multiplier may not exceed 150%.

In 2017, there were four KODs:

Lead

Incentive Plan funding is determined after results of achievement of the predetermined financial measures and accelerateKODs are known.

The following illustration shows how the adoptionIncentive Plan is funded.

Financial
Measure
Achievement (%)

X

Key Operating
Driver
Achievement (%)

=

Actual
Incentive Plan
Funding (%)

Incentive Plan Funding—2022 Actual Incentive Plan Funding Results

The following table shows the target level for each financial goal under the 2022 Incentive Plan, the level of transcatheter therapyachievement required to reach the minimum and maximum achievement levels, and our actual 2022 performance against the goal. Interpolation is applied for aortic valve patients

Leadresults between the levels shown in emerging structural heart therapies

Extend leadershipthe chart and no portion of the incentive corresponding to a particular goal will be earned if actual performance falls short of the threshold minimum level for heart valvethat goal.







Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 36


2022 Company Financial Performance Measures*

Percentage of Financial Measure Achievement
Minimum (25%)Target
(100%)
Maximum (175%)Actual
(%)
Revenue Growth – 50% Weight4%12%20%8%
Earnings per Share ($) – 30% Weight$2.06$2.58$3.09$2.48
Free Cash Flow ($M) – 20% Weight$1,100$1,350$1,600$1,100

*     Earnings per share used in setting and critical care patients

determining compensation is not calculated in accordance with GAAP and reflects adjustments for items such as intellectual property litigation expenses, amortization of intangible assets, fair value adjustments to contingent consideration liabilities arising from acquisitions, and a significant program discontinuation. Free Cash Flow is also a non-GAAP financial measure that is defined as cash flows from operating activities less capital expenditures and, on a non-GAAP basis, Free cash flow was determined excluding the impact of two non-recurring items: (i) a prepayment of property taxes due in 2023 and (ii) a one-time IP settlement amount; this adjustment resulted in a payout increase from 63% to the actual funding of 69%.

Business excellence


Based on actual performance against the financial goals, our overall financial measure achievement multiplier for 2022 was 61%. The financial measure achievement is then multiplied by the KOD level of achievement. After evaluating actual achievement of 56approximately 80 different metrics and milestones underlying these KODs, theour Board determined in its judgment that the overall KOD performanceachievement multiplier for 20172022 was 122%113%.

Based on the formula above, combining financial performance of 175%61% with KOD performance of 122%113%, theour Compensation and Governance Committee arrived at an actual calculated Incentive Plan funding of 214%69%. However, because the


Incentive Plan funding is capped at 175%, the 2017 funding for corporate level officers and employees was 175%.

(2)

Individual Performance

Funding—Individual Performance


Individual performance objectives for theour CEO are established collaborativelyapproved by the CEOour Compensation and the CompensationGovernance Committee, and the individual performance objectives for theour other NEOs are established collaboratively by theour CEO and each such executive. TheOur Compensation and Governance Committee believes each executive has an appropriate number of meaningful individual performance objectives. The goal in choosing the individual performance objectives isare chosen to create goals, the attainment of which is designed to implement our strategic and operating plans, with a focus on the achievement of the financial measures and operational goals within each executive’s individual area of responsibility.


These objectives are considered in the aggregate to determine an overall performance assessment for each NEO for the purposes of determining compensation. Although some of the individual performance objectives are expressed in qualitative terms that require subjective evaluation, objectives also include several quantitative measures. However, the assessment of the overall performance for each NEO involves a subjective process. TheOur CEO reviews the performance of each NEO (other than theour CEO) with theour Compensation and Governance Committee and recommends a performance assessment for each executive. TheOur Compensation and Governance Committee assesses theour CEO’s performance. TheOur Compensation and Governance Committee then exercises subjective judgment, reviewing the individual performance objectives, the overall performance of the individual executive against all of his or her individual objectives, taken together, and the executive’s performance relative to the environment and to other executives. There is no formal weighting of the individual performance objectives. Individual performance may impact an executive’s cash incentive payment, subject to an overall cap on incentive payments of 200% of the Incentive Pay Objective.

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Edwards Lifesciences Corporation |    2018I2023 Proxy Statement35

37


  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  


The individual performance objectives for theour CEO and theour other NEOs and the factors considered by theour Compensation and Governance Committee for 20172022 are described below.


NEO

2017

2022 Performance Objectives and Factors Considered
by theour Compensation and Governance Committee

Mr. Mussallem

Develop and execute corporatedeploy strategy; drive our strategic imperatives through KOD achievement; achieve Company financial goals and KODs;goals; increase stockholderlong-term shareholder value; drive innovation and product leadership; attract and retain a diverse, talented employees;team; promote a strong culture of ethical business practicesconsistent with our Credo and social responsibility;Aspirations; and provide leadership as Board Chairman.

  TheOur Compensation and Governance Committee found that Mr. Mussallem broadly achieved all of his objectives, noting that Edwards’ financial results demonstrated impressive growth, and that he had overseenled a remarkable patient-focused strategy with continued focus on important therapy innovations andinfrastructure-relatedinnovations. Infrastructure-related strategic initiatives intended to drive longer term growth and success. Thesuccess were executed as our Company attained extraordinary global employee engagement continuingwas recognized for our sustainability program and significant community engagement. Our Company fortified our strong patient-focused culture and expanded our diversity and inclusion initiatives to fortifystrengthen our patient-focused culture. Overall, Mr. Mussallem deliveredabove-expectation financial results highlighted by strong profitabilityinnovation strategy. Our Company continued to focus on delivering long-term shareholder returns while continuing to invest aggressivelyinvesting in our technology pipeline and infrastructure necessary to support future initiatives.

growth. Mr. Mussallem led our Company’s rigorous CEO succession plan to establish and announce a thoughtful executive leadership transition.
Mr. Zovighian
Develop, evolve and execute the strategy for the Transcatheter Mitral and Tricuspid business to drive new product introductions, deliver sales growth and achieve financial goals; drive innovation and 2022 product development KODs; attract and retain a diverse, talented team; and promote a strong culture consistent with our Credo and Aspirations.
Our Compensation and Governance Committee noted that under Mr. Zovighian’s leadership, our Company maintained focus on TMTT key value drivers, developing best-in-class innovation, building a body of evidence to support approval and adoption, and delivering superior real world patient outcomes. Most noteworthy, our Company achieved early approval of the PASCAL technology in both Europe and the Unites States. Under his leadership, his team achieved 2022 product development KODs; continued to build a diverse, industry-leading team; and promoted a strong culture consistent with our Credo and Aspirations.
Mr. Ullem

Ensure the Company’sintegrity of Edwards’ financial reporting maintains the highest integrity;reporting; drive to achieve 20172022 strategic imperatives, KODs and financial goals; maintain a high standard of investor relations; optimize the Company’s capital structure; enhance stockholder returns; executecompany-widedeployment; expand Information Technology initiatives; andTechnology’s capabilities to support growth; actively manage enterprise risks; attract develop and retain a diverse, talented employees.

team; and promote a strong culture consistent with our Credo and Aspirations.

  TheOur Compensation and Governance Committee noted that even under continued difficult circumstances of the pandemic, Mr. Ullem demonstrated strong overall performance in the role of Chief Financial Officer. Specifically, despite the significant stock price decline, he advanced efforts to increase engagement with stockholders, led the continued development of solideffective financial planning and the issuance of timely and accurate financial reports, continued to build investor confidence,improved risk mitigation through enterprise risk management, deployed severalkey global information technology enhancements to strengthen Edwards’ infrastructure,management of data, and focused on global talent development.

expanded diversity and inclusion programs.

Mr. Bobo

Lemercier

  Develop and evolve Edwards’ corporate strategy, establish and execute business development goals as well as provide leadership to the Transcatheter Mitral and Tricuspid Therapies initiative and Healthcare Solutions; attract, develop and retain talented employees; and promote a culture of patient focus, innovation, operational excellence and quality compliance.

  The Compensation Committee noted Mr. Bobo’s leadership in the evolution of ourinnovation-driven strategy, the successful execution of several business development initiatives including the acquisitions of Valtech Cardio and Harpoon Medical, and leadership of our Transcatheter Mitral and Tricuspid Therapies initiative.

Ms. Szyman

Develop, evolve and execute the regional business strategy for Europe, Canada, and Latin America as well as the Critical CareJapan and Vascular businesses to strengthen the core capability;Asia Pacific regions beginning August 1, 2022; drive new product introductions, consistently deliver sales growth and achieve the financial goals for global regions excluding the Critical Care and Vascular businesses;United States; drive innovation and 2017 product development KODs;enhance leadership in key franchises; ensure the proper funding from the different healthcare systems supporting our innovative technologies across the Region; attract develop and retain a diverse, talented employees;team; and promote a strong culture of patient focus, innovation, operational excellenceconsistent with our Credo and quality compliance.

Aspirations.

  TheOur Compensation and Governance Committee noted that Ms. Szyman delivered impressivenear-termdespite recurring significant circumstances of the pandemic, Mr. Lemercier’s leadership achieved solid regional results, while continuing tospecifically driven by new product indications, product launches, geography expansion, a focus on ensuring investment to executegovernment affairs and regulatory, and patient engagement. Importantly, he led the longer—term Critical Care strategy, achieved FDA clearance forcontinued introduction of transformative Transcatheter Mitral and Tricuspid therapies, pursuing leadership in this emerging field, as well as driving strong transcatheter aortic heart valve, surgical structural heart and critical care initiatives. His team also enhanced Edwards’ participation within the Hemosphere advanced monitoring platform, explored new complementary technologies, product enhancementsMedTech European trade association with a focus on cardiovascular disease awareness in Europe and technology to augment patient access to therapy,had continued focus on talent development and focused on global talent development.

community philanthropy across all geographies.

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 38


Mr. Wood

Develop, evolve and execute the strategy for the Transcatheter HeartAortic Valve Replacement business to strengthen our leadership position; consistently deliver sales growth and achieve the financial goals for the Transcatheter HeartAortic Valve Replacement business; drive innovation and 20172022 product development KODs; attract develop and retain a diverse, talented employees;team; and promote a strong culture of patient focus, innovation, operational excellenceconsistent with our Credo and quality compliance.

Aspirations.

  The Our Compensation and Governance Committee noted that under Mr. Wood’s leadership, impressive Transcatheter Heart Valve financial results wereour Company delivered across all regions driven by continued therapy adoption, exceptional performancesolid revenue growth in 2022 in spite of the challenging environment that included hospital staffing challenges and COVID related lockdowns. Edwards Sapien 3 valve.continued our strong patient focus with on-site case support globally and was present in the great majority of the cases. His team launched the SAPIEN 3 Ultra RESILIA platform in the US which strengthened our leadership position. Our Company also advanced programsreceived regulatory approval in Japan for SAPIEN 3 Ultra RESILIA. Mr. Wood continued to significantly expand indications foradvance two ground-breaking indication expansion trials, early TAVR studying severe AS patients without symptoms, and the therapy. Additionally, compelling data from the PARTNER II trial was presented that demonstrated excellent economic value to the healthcare system.

Progress Trial studying moderate AS patients.

36    LOGO     Edwards Lifesciences Corporation    |    2018 Proxy Statement


  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  


Incentive Plan Funding—Amounts Earned

Each NEO’s actual Incentive Plan amount earned for 2022 was determined by multiplying the NEO’s target Incentive Plan Objective by the financial achievement at 61% of target, the KOD achievement at 113% of target, and the individual performance percentage modifier for the executive (subject to the overall maximum Incentive Plan payment of 200% of the NEO’s Incentive Plan Objective). Each NEO’s actual Incentive Plan amount earned for 2022 is included in the “Summary Compensation Table” below.
Committee Review Process.    The    Our Compensation and Governance Committee generally meets each January and February to review and approve annual incentive payments for the prior year and to set incentive performance targets for the current year. The Compensation Committee may adjust the incentive payment levels based on financial measure achievement, KOD achievement, individual performance, and TSR. In February 2018, after reviewing the Company’s 2017 performance versus financial2023, our Compensation and operational goals, TSR performance, and business unit performance, the CompensationGovernance Committee awardeddetermined incentive payments to the NEOs that ranged from 186%48.3% to 187%69.0% of the Incentive Pay Objectives for theour NEOs. The payout for our CEO was 48.3% of target and the average payout for our other NEOs was 63.5% of target which supports our Compensation and Governance Committee’s recognition of our Company’s long-term achievements in 2022 but also an appreciation of it having been a challenging year for our Company. The amount awarded toapproved for each NEO for 20172022 is reported in the accompanying “Summary Compensation” table.Compensation Table.” The incentive payments were paid in March 2018.

2023.

Long-Term Incentive Awards.The mix oflong-term incentive awards granted to our NEOs in 20172022 included stock options, PBRSUs and RSUs. TheOur Compensation and Governance Committee views stock options asperformance-based equity compensation, tying our executives’ pay directly to stockholder value creation over the long term because the value of our common stock must increase after the date of grant of the options in order for the options to have any value. Having aseven-year time horizon, stock options also promote the retention of our executives and are consistent with our focus ontop-line growth, innovation and ourlonger-term investment horizon and product pipeline. PBRSU awards measurevest based on relative TSR, which theour Compensation and Governance Committee believes is a straightforward and objective metric for our stockholders to evaluate our performance against the performance of other companies and to align with stockholder interests. As the RSU awards have value regardless of stock price performance, they help promote the stability and retention of a strong executive team over the longer term (vesting schedules generally require continuous service over multiple years, as described below).

Of the total 20172022 long-term incentive awardawards granted to each of our NEOs, the grant values ofapproved by our Compensation and Governance Committee were weighted 55% stock options, were weighted 55%,25% PBRSUs, were weighted 25%, andtime-based RSUs were weighted 20% (based on thegrant-date fair value of the awards).time-based RSUs. We believe measuringrewarding a combination of absolute TSR (through stock options), and relative TSR (through PBRSUs), and providingstock-denominatedtime-based stock-denominated time-based vesting RSUs, results in a balance between these incentives that appropriately aligns our executives’ pay with stockholder value and promoteswhile promoting the stability and retention of the executive team. Given the different risk and reward characteristics of these three types of awards and our executive compensation philosophy, theour Compensation and Governance Committee believes that the equity awards granted to executives should compriseinclude a greater proportion of stock options and PBRSUs relative to RSUs.

Stock Options.    Stock options granted in 2022 to Mr. Ullem, Ms. SzymanMessrs. Mussallem, Lemercier and Mr. Wood vest annually over four years and have aseven-year term. Stock options granted to Mr. Mussallem term and Mr. Bobo vest monthly over 36 months, consistent with the vesting standards established by theour Company for its stock option grants to executives who areretirement-eligible which refers to those employees who are 55 years or older with 10 years of service. Stock options granted to Messrs. Ullem and Zovighian have aseven-year term. term and vest annually over four years as they were not retirement-eligible at the time of grant. Stock options granted during 20172022 have an exercise price equal to the closing price on the day of the regular Board meeting held on the next day following Compensation and Governance Committee approval.

approval as that was the effective date of grant for these options.


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 39


PBRSUs.     PBRSUs awarded in 20172022 are based on relative TSR performance as measured for the performance period beginning April 30, 20172022 and ending April 30, 2020.2025. The percentage of the target PBRSU awards that will vest at the end of thethree-year performance period depends on the percentage by which our annualized TSR exceeds or falls short of the median annualized TSR (calculated assuming dividend reinvestment) of the SPHESISPSIHE Subset (as defined below). The chart below illustrates the maximum, target and threshold performance levels and the PBRSU payout at each level.

level (with the payout level determined on a pro-rata basis for actual performance between the levels shows in the chart).

   2017

2022 PBRSU

Performance

Levels

Annualized TSR vs Median of

SPHESI
SPSIHE
Subset

Payout as a

Percentage of

Target Award

Maximum

    +7.5% or more points from median

175%

175

%

Target

    Median

                                                 Median

100%

100

%

Threshold

    -7.5% points from median

25%

25

%

No Payout

    More than-7.5% points from median

0%

0

%

The maximum and threshold performance levels applicable to the awards were set at levels that theour Compensation and Governance Committee believed were consistent with the historical 75th and 25th percentile levels, respectively, for the TSRs of the SPHESISPSIHE Subset. The “SPHESI“SPSIHE Subset” is a subset of 2625 companies in the S&P Healthcare Equipment Select Industry Index that are also onin the S&P 500 Index andor S&P 400 Midcap Index.

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We believe this group is a strong comparator for performance purposes as it includes companies comparable in size to our Company with similar business models.


  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  

RSUs.    RSUs grantedawarded in 2022 to theour NEOs become vested as to 50%vest 25% annually over four years on each anniversary of the total number of unitsaward date, subject to continued employment of the award recipient through the applicable vesting date. RSUs awarded prior to February 2020 vest 50% on each of the third and fourth anniversaries of the award date, subject to continued employment of the award recipient through the applicable vesting date.

At theour Compensation and Governance Committee meeting immediately preceding the stockholder meeting in May of each year, theour Compensation and Governance Committee generally determines the size of thelong-term incentive award for each NEO. In keeping with our commitment to provide a total compensation package that emphasizesat-risk components of pay,long-term incentives for 20172022 comprised, on average, 67%72% of the value of theour NEO’s target total direct compensation package.

For 2017, the2022, our CEO evaluated each NEO’s performance (other than his own), as discussed previously (see “Compensation Process” above), and establishedmade specific recommendations as to their equity award levels for theour Compensation and Governance Committee’s consideration. Accordingly, theOur Compensation and Governance Committee establishedapproved awards for theour NEOs (other than theour CEO) based on, taking into account these recommendations and theour Compensation and Governance Committee’s assessment of the factors noted above for each executive. TheOur Compensation and Governance Committee, with input from the full Board, evaluated theour CEO’s performance using the same criteria as discussed above in “Compensation Process” to establish the appropriate award for theour CEO. Equity awards are granted under the Company’s Long-Term Stock Incentive Compensation Program (the “Long-Term Stock Program”), which was lasthas been approved by the stockholders in May 2017. The equity awards granted to the NEOs for 2017 are set forth in the accompanying “Grants of Plan – Based Awards in Fiscal Year 2017” table below.

stockholders.

Value of Equity Awarded in 2017.2022.    Stock options are valued as of the grant date using the Black-Scholes valuation model. The Black-Scholes valuation used by our Compensation and Governance Committee in granting the equity awards, is the same valuation used by our Company in measuring and recognizing compensation expense.  RSUs and PBRSUs are valued at the fair market value of the underlying shares on the grant date, with the value of PBRSUs based on the “target” level of performance. Under applicable accounting rules, however, thegrant-date fair value of the PBRSUs awarded to our NEOs (at the “target” levelis calculated for purposes of performance) is calculatedour financial reporting using a Monte Carlo simulation pricing model. The PBRSUs are included as compensation for our NEOs in the “Summary Compensation Table” based on this valuation methodology. For information on the assumptions used in this fair value computation, refer to Note 1314 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” in the 2017our 2022 Annual Report.

The value of the PBRSUs awarded to our NEOs using this model in each of 2013 Our Compensation and 2014 differed from the Company’s stock price on the grant date, either positively or negatively, by approximately 30% as a result of applyingGovernance Committee does not apply the Monte Carlo simulation. As a result, the number of PBRSUs awarded to our executives has varied significantly year over year. Beginning in 2015, the Compensation Committee decided to calculatesimulation when it determines the number of PBRSUs to be awarded to executives usingan executive (instead basing the stock pricevalue of a PBRSU on the fair market value of the underlying “target” number of shares on the grant date, rather than by applying the Monte Carlo simulation model, in orderdate) to simplify the award process and to provide more consistent award sizing (based on the number of shares subject to the awards) from year to year. The Monte Carlo simulation model will continue to be applied, as required under applicable accounting rules, for purposes of valuing these awards in our financial disclosures and in presenting thegrant-date fair value of these awards in the “Summary Compensation Table.”

The following chart shows the values of the PBRSU awards approved by theour Compensation and Governance Committee in 20172022 that were used to determine the number of shares subject to the awards (based on the $110.25$105.93 closing price per share of our common stock on May 3, 2022, the grant date for the PBRSUs, and calculated at the “target” level of performance and without taking the Monte Carlo simulation pricing model into account), as well as the accountinggrant-date grant-

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 40


date fair value of the PBRSUs we are required to use under applicable SEC rules to report in the “Summary Compensation Table” (calculated as noted in the footnotes to the “Summary Compensation Table,” and including the impact of the Monte Carlo simulation pricing model).

   

 

2017 PBRSU Awards

 

   Name

 

  

Value
Based on
May 11, 2017
Stock Price

 

   

Value Required

to be Included

in Summary

Compensation

Table

 

 

 

  Mr. Mussallem

 

  

 

 

 

 

$1,650,994

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

$2,071,342

 

 

 

 

 

  Mr. Ullem

 

  

 

 

 

 

416,194

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

522,158

 

 

 

 

 

  Mr. Bobo

 

  

 

 

 

 

399,656

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

501,410

 

 

 

 

 

  Ms. Szyman

 

  

 

 

 

 

374,850

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

470,288

 

 

 

 

 

  Mr. Wood

 

  

 

 

 

 

399,656

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

501,410

 

 

 

 

38    LOGO     Edwards Lifesciences Corporation    |    2018 Proxy Statement


  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  


 2022 PBRSU Awards
NameValue Based on
Grant Date Fair Market Value
Value Required
to be Included in Summary
Compensation
Table
Mr. Mussallem$ 2,812,4423,332,025
Mr. Ullem  662,063784,375
Mr. Lemercier (1)
  1,113,3391,337,137
Mr. Wood  587,912696,525
Mr. Zovighian550,836652,600
(1)    These amounts for Mr. Lemercier include both his annual equity award in May 2022 and the additional grant he received in July 2022 described below under “Recent Compensation Decisions” as disclosed in the Grant of Plan-Based Awards tablebelow.

The equity awards granted to our NEOs in 2022, and the grant-date fair value of all thelong-term incentivethese awards, granted by the Company to the NEOs in 2017 is includedset forth in the “Grants ofPlan-Based Awards in Fiscal Year 2017”2022” table below.


Determination as to 20142019 PBRSU Awards.    In May 2014, the2019, our Compensation and Governance Committee granted awards of PBRSUs to certain of our executives. For these awards to vest, Edwards’ TSR for the three-year performance period ending April 30, 2022 had to reachbe at or above -7.5% points from the 25th percentile relative to thatmedian TSR of the other companies that were listed in the SPHESISPSIHE Subset on the grant date and were still publicly traded on April 30, 2017,2022. Edwards’ TSR for that performance period, and the last day of thethree-year performance period. Edwards’ percentile ranking compared toTSR levels that would have resulted in payout at the threshold, target, and maximum percentile ranks of the SPHESI Subset as of April 30, 2017, as well as the3-year TSRs relative to each levellevels, are as follows:

 

2014 PBRSU

Performance

Levels

 

  

Rank of SPHESI
Subset

 

  

 

TSR Over

Three-Year

Period

 

  

 

Payout as a

Percentage of

Target Award

 

 

 

Maximum

 

  

 

75th Percentile

 

  

 

 

 

 

26

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

175

 

 

 

 

Target

 

  

 

50th Percentile

 

  

 

 

 

 

19

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

100

 

 

 

 

Threshold

 

  

 

25th Percentile

 

  

 

 

 

 

12

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

25

 

 

 

 

Edwards

 

  

 

95th Percentile

 

  

 

 

 

 

37

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

175

 

 

 

The

2019 PBRSU
Performance
Levels
Company’s TSR vs
Median of SPSIHE Subset
TSR Over
Three-Year
Period
Payout as a
Percentage of
Target Award
Maximum+7.5% points from Median17.81%175%
TargetMedian10.31%100%
Threshold-7.5% points from Median2.81%25%
Edwards +14.55% points from Median24.86%175%
Our Compensation and Governance Committee determined that as of April 30, 20172022 our relative TSR was at +14.55% points above the 95th percentile, higher than the maximum levelmedian and, accordingly, 175% of the target award for each executive vested. Amounts realized by our NEOs attributable to these awards can be found in the “Option Exercises and Stock Vested in Fiscal Year 2017”2022” table below.


Recent Compensation Decisions. On July 7, 2022, in connection with our Board’s appointment of Mr. Lemercier to an expanded leadership role to include Japan, Asia Pacific and Greater China in addition to Europe, Middle East, Africa, Canada and Latin America and in lieu of receiving the Company’s May 2023 annual grant, our Board approved the following equity grants: 54,500 stock options, 6,100 RSUs and 7,625 PBRSUs. For additional information on these grants see “Recent Compensation Decisions” as disclosed in the Grant of Plan-Based Awards table below. In addition, Mr. Lemercier's incentive pay objective under our Company's annual cash incentive plan was increased to $561,957.

In December 2022, in connection with Mr. Zovighian being named as Mr. Mussallem's successorre and being appointed President during the transition, our Board approved an increase to Mr. Zovighian’s base salary level to $800,000 annually and increased his incentive pay objective under our Company’s annual cash incentive plan to $800,000, in each case effective January 1, 2023.In connection with the Board’s appointment of Larry Wood to an expanded role as corporate vice president and group president, Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement and Surgical Structural Heart effective January 1, 2023, our Board approved an increase in Mr. Wood’s base salary level to $750,000 annually and increased his incentive pay objective under our Company’s annual cash incentive plan to $750,000, in each case effective January 1, 2023.




Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 41


Stock Ownership Guidelines and Holding Requirement.    Under our guidelines, executives are expected to own shares of Edwards’ stock as follows:

CEO

Other NEOs

CEOOther NEOs
6 times base salary

3 times base salary

All of theour NEOs are in compliance with the


ownership guidelines.

guidelines and/or the holding requirements as of the date of the filing of this proxy statement.

Stock ownership guidelines were established to create additional owner commitment and to emphasize stockholder value creation. Expected ownership levels are adjusted as the executives’ annual base salaries change. Executives who have not met the guidelines must hold 50% of the net shares of our common stock acquired in connection with the exercise of stock options and the vesting of restricted stock, RSU awards, and RSUPBRSU awards (after satisfaction of applicable taxes and, in the case of options, payment of the exercise price) until the guidelines are met. In the event an executive achieved the guideline but was unable to maintain the ownership level due to a decline in the price of our common stock, the 50% holding requirement is reinstated.

Prohibition on Pledging and Hedging.    We have adopted a policy prohibiting directors, the executive leadership team,all members of our Board, all employees with a title of “vice president” equivalent or above, and employeesany other employee designated as “insiders”a “Designated Insider” from time to time under our insider trading policy, from (1)pledging or hedging our Company’s securities. Pledging includes holding theour Company’s securities in a margin account or otherwise pledging theour Company’s securities as collateral for a loan, and (2) hedging the Company’s securities, includingloan. Hedging includes entering into short sales, options, puts, calls and sales against the box, as well as hedging of our Company’s securities or derivative transactions including equity swaps, forwards, futures, collars and exchange funds. To our knowledge, none of our NEOs hashave engaged in hedgingpledging or pledginghedging with respect to our common stock.

Market Timing of Equity Awards.    We do not have any program, plan or practice to time equity grants in coordination with the release of material information. Annual equity awards for theour NEOs are generally approved at theour Compensation and Governance Committee meeting in May of each year and awarded on the date of theour Board meeting immediately following that Committee Meeting.meeting. Any other equity awards to theour NEOs, including grants to new hires, are generally made on the date of the next regularly scheduled Board meeting.

Benefits and Perquisites.    The    Our NEOs are eligible to participate in employee benefit programs generally offered to other of our employees employed in the same jurisdiction as theour NEO including, for all NEOs employed in the United States, the Edwards Lifesciences Corporation 401(k) Savings and Investment Plan (“401(k)”), which provides for a Company matching contribution. We matchOur Company matches employee 401(k) contributions dollar for dollar up to the first 3%4% of a participant’s eligible cash compensation, and 50% onof the next 2%. of eligible cash compensation. In addition, we provide certain other perquisites to our NEOs described below that are not generally available to our employees.

LOGO     Edwards Lifesciences Corporation    |    2018 Proxy Statement39


  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  

TheOur Compensation and Governance Committee conducts an annual review of the competitiveness of our perquisite program, including its individual components and levels, against the perquisite programs of companies in the Comparator Group. As a result of these reviews, theour Compensation and Governance Committee may make adjustments from time to time in the benefits and perquisites provided as it determines to be appropriate.

We believe that providing perquisites enhances the competitiveness of the executive’s compensation in a relatively inexpensive way. These perquisites are described below and reported in the “Summary Compensation Table.”

Our perquisite program for theour NEOs includes the following:

Car Allowance.    An annual


Allowances. Effective January 1, 2022, perquisite allowances were removed from our perquisite program, except that certain payments were made to Mr. Lemercier as we believe they are competitive for similar positions in the Swiss market. These include a car allowance is paid as follows: $13,200of $27,638 and a housing allowance of $31,512 for the CEO, and $10,800 for the other NEOs. It is intended to cover expenses related to the lease, purchase, insurance and maintenance of a vehicle, and mileage for business use. The car allowance is provided in recognition of the need to have executives visit customers, business partners and other stakeholders in order to fulfill their job responsibilities.

2022.


Executive Physical Examination.    The    Our Company paid up to $3,649$2,149 for each annual executive physical examination received by ana NEO. This benefit encourages the proactive management of the executive’s health, helping best position the executive team to be able to address the ongoing andday-to-day issues we face.

Perquisite Allowance.    NEOs receive a fixed annual allowance for certain expenses. The CEO receives $40,000 (plus two club memberships that are being used for corporate business purposes,

Pension. Mr. Lemercier participates in our pension plan applicable to our salaried employees at a combined costour Nyon, Switzerland facility (see the section “Pension Benefits” below). Other than our 401(k) plan described above, we do not have any pension plans in which any of $10,260 in 2017), and the other NEOs each receive $20,000. This benefit recognizes the diverse nature of expenses that have a business nexus that may be incurred by our executives. The allowance may also be used to cover certain personal financial, estate and tax planning costs, as we believe that it is appropriate for the executives to have professional assistance in managing their total compensation, permitting them to focus their full attention on growing and managing our business.

participate.


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 42


Deferred Compensation.    We have adopted a deferred compensation plan for theour NEOs and certain other management employees to enable them to save for retirement by deferring their income and the associated tax to a future date or termination of employment. Under the Executive Deferred Compensation Plan (the “EDCP”), return on compensation deferred by participants is based on investment alternatives selected by the participant. We believe that the EDCP is comparable to similar plans offered by companies in the Comparator Group.

The amounts deferred and accrued under the EDCP for theour NEOs are reported below in the “Summary Compensation Table” and the “Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plans” table.

Employment andPost-Termination Agreements.    Wehave    We have entered into an employment agreement with theour CEO, as well aschange-in-control severance agreements (the“change-in-control “change-in-control severance agreements”) with theour CEO and our other NEOs as discussed below. Mr. Bobo, Mr.Messrs. Ullem, Ms. SzymanWood, and Mr. WoodZovighian are eligible to participate in a general severance plan for eligible U.S. employees, and Mr. Lemercier is eligible to receive severance benefits, in each case upon an involuntarya qualifying termination of employment due to the elimination of their position or a reduction in workforce.

employment.

Chief Executive Officer Employment Agreement.    We entered into an amended and restated employment agreement with Mr. Mussallem on March 9, 2009, which was approved by theour Compensation and Governance Committee and provides for, among other things, his appointment as Chief Executive Officer, an annual base salary, bonus andlong-term incentive awards as determined by theour Board, and, in certain circumstances, severance payments upon termination of employment.

The agreement renews automatically for successive one-year terms.

Mr. Mussallem’s base salary is reviewed and may be adjusted annually based on theour Compensation and Governance Committee’s review of the Comparator Group data in consultation with the Compensation Consultant, and Mr. Mussallem’s performance. TheOur Compensation and Governance Committee followed the same philosophy and programs described above for executives in determining 20172022 compensation for Mr. Mussallem. In addition, theour Compensation and Governance Committee reviewed a tally sheet, which affixed a dollar amount to all components of Mr. Mussallem’s compensation, including current compensation, equity awards and benefits.

The

Our Compensation and Governance Committee believes, after reviewing Mr. Mussallem’s target total direct compensation, individual performance, and contribution to our financial results during 2017,2022, that Mr. Mussallem’s total compensation and each component thereof were in line with our compensation philosophy and objectives.

If Mr. Mussallem’s employment is involuntarily terminated by us without “cause,” as defined in the employment agreement, we are required to pay certain severance benefits, provided he is not receiving the severance benefits under

40    LOGO     Edwards Lifesciences Corporation    |    2018 Proxy Statement


  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  

hischange-in-control severance agreement. The material terms of the severance arrangement are described in the section “Potential Payments upon Termination or Change in Control” below.

Change-in-Control Severance Agreements.    We have entered into agreements with theour NEOs pursuant to which such individuals will be provided certain payments and benefits in the event of termination of employment following a change in control of theour Company. We believe that these agreements enhance the likelihood of retaining the services of the executives in the event we were to become an acquisition target and allow theour NEOs to continue to focus their attention on our business operations, stockholder value and the attainment oflong-term andshort-term objectives without undue concern over their employment or financial situations. The material terms of the agreements are described in the section “Potential Payments upon Termination or Change in Control,”Control” below.

We believe that the level of severance payments provided under these agreements is fair and reasonable based on the value we would derive from the services provided by the executives withchange-in-control severance agreements prior to, and following, a change in control.

Tax Implications – Policy Regarding Section 162(m).Federal income tax law generally prohibits a publicly-held company from deducting compensation paid to a current or former NEO that exceeds $1 million during the tax year. Certain awards granted by theour Company before November 2, 2017 that were based upon attaining pre-established performance measures set by theour Compensation and Governance Committee, as well as amounts payable to former executives pursuant to a written binding contract that was in effect on November 2, 2017, may qualify for an exception to the $1 million deductibility limit. There can be no assurance that any compensation theour Compensation and Governance Committee intended to be deductible will in fact be deductible. Although the potential deductibility of compensation is one of the factors theour Compensation and Governance Committee notes when designing theour Company’s executive compensation program, theour Compensation and Governance Committee has the flexibility to take any compensation-related actions it determines are in the best interests of theour Company and itsour stockholders, including awarding compensation that will not be deductible for tax purposes.

The


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 43


Our Compensation and Governance Committee recognizes the importance of preserving our ability to design compensation programs to attract and retain skilled and qualified individuals in a highly competitive market. TheOur Compensation and Governance Committee will continue to design salary, annual incentive bonuses andlong-term incentive compensation in a manner that theour Compensation and Governance Committee believes prudent or necessary to hire and retain our NEOs, and may approve non-deductible compensation arrangements for our executive officers from time to time that do not satisfy the requirements of Section 162(m) (such as base salaries and ourtime-based vesting RSUs) when it believes that these other considerations outweigh the benefit of the tax deductibility of the compensation.

2018 Compensation Decisions.    At its February 2018 meeting, the Compensation Committee approved average base salary increases of approximately 3.5% for the NEOs to maintain market competitiveness. The Compensation Committee also approved other base salary increases to recognize performance for other executives. In addition, the Compensation Committee established the Incentive Pay Objectives and the maximum bonus for each NEO, and established the Company’s 2018 financial measures and operational goals under the Incentive Plan.


COMPENSATION AND GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE REPORT

The Compensation and Governance Committee has reviewed and discussed the “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” disclosurecontained in this Proxy Statement with management. Based on thisits review and discussion,discussions, the Compensation and Governance Committee recommended to the Board of Directors that the “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” be included in thethis Proxy Statement distributed in connection withand incorporated by reference into the Company’s 2022 Annual Meeting.

Report on Form 10-K.

The Compensation and Governance Committee:

William

Nicholas J. Link, Ph.D.Valeriani (Chair)

Steven R. Loranger

Martha H. Marsh

Nicholas J. Valeriani

Paul A. LaViolette
This report shall not be deemed soliciting material or to be filed with the SEC, or incorporated by reference in any document so filed, whether made before or after the date hereof, except to the extent we specifically request that it be treated as soliciting material or it is specifically incorporated by reference therein.

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44


  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  



EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The “Summary Compensation Table” quantifies the value of the different forms of compensation earned by or awarded to our NEOs for 2017.2022. The primary elements of each NEO’s total compensation reported in the table are base salary, annual bonus andlong-term equity incentives, consisting of stock options, PBRSUs and RSUs. NEOs also received the other benefits listed in the “All Other Compensation” column of the “Summary Compensation Table,” as further described in the footnotes to the table.


The “Summary Compensation Table” should be read in conjunction with the tables and narrative descriptions that follow. A description of the material terms of each NEO’s base salary and annual bonus is provided immediately following the “Summary Compensation Table.” The “Grants ofPlan-Based Awards in Fiscal Year 2017”2022” table, and the accompanying description of the material terms of the stock options, PBRSUs, and RSUs granted in 2017,2022, provides information regarding thelong-term equity incentives awarded to our NEOs in 2017.2022. The “Outstanding Equity Awards at 20172022 FiscalYear-End” and “Option Exercises and Stock Vested in Fiscal Year 2017”2022” tables provide further information on theour NEOs’ potential realizable value and actual value realized with respect to their equity awards.

Post-termination benefits for our NEOs are discussed in the section “Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control” below.

Summary Compensation Table

– Fiscal 2020-2022


The following table sets forth a summary, for the years indicated, of the compensation of the principal executive officer, the principal financial officer and our three other most highly compensated executive officers whose total compensation for 2017 was in excess of $100,000 and who were serving as executive officers at the end of 2017.2022. No other executive officers that would have otherwise been includable in the table on the basis of total compensation for 20172022 have been excluded by reason of their termination of employment or change in executive status during that year.

  Name and

  Principal Position

 Year Salary
$
(1)
 Bonus
$
(2)
 Stock
Awards
$
(3)
 Option
Awards
$
(3)
 Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation
$
(4)
 All Other
Compensation
$
(5)
 Total
$

 

Mr. Mussallem

  

 

 

 

2017

 

  

 

$

 

995,385

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

$

 

3,391,586

 

  

 

$

 

3,631,053

 

  

 

$

 

2,597,000

 

  

 

$

 

183,294

 

  

 

$

 

10,798,318

 

Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer

 

   2016   976,731      2,943,863   3,409,180   2,228,226   176,099   9,734,099
   

 

2015

 

 

   

 

941,731

 

 

   

 

 

 

   

 

2,674,188

 

 

   

 

3,161,339

 

 

   

 

2,074,800

 

 

   

 

178,142

 

 

   

 

9,030,200

 

 

 

Mr. Ullem

  

 

 

 

2017

 

  

 

 

 

569,826

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

855,664

 

  

 

 

 

914,598

 

  

 

 

 

800,400

 

  

 

 

 

44,082

 

  

 

 

 

3,184,570

 

Corporate Vice President, Chief Financial Officer

 

   2016   555,309      735,371   851,213   706,040   57,821   2,905,754
   

 

2015

 

 

   

 

539,074

 

 

   

 

 

 

   

 

675,278

 

 

   

 

796,272

 

 

   

 

721,000

 

 

   

 

70,593

 

 

   

 

2,802,217

 

 

 

Mr. Bobo

  

 

 

 

2017

 

  

 

 

 

573,506

 

  

 

 

 

2,000

 

  

 

 

 

821,135

 

  

 

 

 

881,474

 

  

 

 

 

802,473

 

  

 

 

 

68,501

 

  

 

 

 

3,149,089

 

Corporate Vice President

   2016   557,668   4,200   735,371   851,213   654,444   55,017   2,857,913
   

 

2015

 

 

   

 

526,296

 

 

   

 

4,200

 

 

   

 

675,278

 

 

   

 

796,272

 

 

   

 

689,325

 

 

   

 

61,130

 

 

   

 

2,752,501

 

 

 

Ms. Szyman

  

 

 

 

2017

 

  

 

 

 

526,885

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

770,719

 

  

 

 

 

825,202

 

  

 

 

 

742,540

 

  

 

 

 

52,030

 

  

 

 

 

2,917,376

 

Corporate Vice President

   2016   513,461      687,878   797,419   667,244   176,615   2,842,617
   

 

2015

 

 

   

 

501,923

 

 

   

 

300,000

 

 

   

 

2,667,945

 

 

   

 

1,438,048

 

 

   

 

608,825

 

 

   

 

220,966

 

 

   

 

5,737,707

 

 

 

Mr. Wood

  

 

 

 

2017

 

  

 

 

 

550,506

 

  

 

 

 

2,000

 

  

 

 

 

821,135

 

  

 

 

 

880,215

 

  

 

 

 

780,318

 

  

 

 

 

87,602

 

  

 

 

 

3,121,776

 

Corporate Vice President

   2016   526,002      712,945   825,898   753,660   83,869   2,902,374
   

 

2015

 

 

   

 

517,787

 

 

   

 

2,000

 

 

   

 

651,620

 

 

   

 

771,051

 

 

   

 

750,000

 

 

   

 

81,920

 

 

   

 

2,774,378

 

 

(1)

Amounts shown for 2017 include amounts that were deferred into the EDCP as follows: Mr. Mussallem – $118,144; Mr. Ullem – $0; Mr. Bobo – $26,039; Ms. Szyman – $0; and Mr. Wood – $41,367. The EDCP is more fully described in the section following the “Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plans” table below.

(2)

Amounts shown for Messrs. Bobo and Wood include awards received through our Innovation Rewards Program which compensates active employee inventors for their patent contributions to our Company.

(3)

The amounts reported in these columns reflect the aggregategrant-date fair value of the stock awards and option awards during the applicable year. These values have been determined under the principles used to calculate thegrant-date fair value of equity awards for purposes of our financial statements in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification Topic 718. For a discussion of the assumptions and methodologies used to value the awards reported in these columns, please see the discussion of stock awards and option awards contained in Note 13 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” in the 2017 Annual Report.

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Name and
Principal Position
Year
Salary 
$(1)
Bonus
$(2)
Stock
Awards
$
(3)
Option
Awards
$
(3)
Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation
$
(4)
Change in
Pension Value
and
Nonqualified
Deferred
Compensation
Earnings
$
(5)
All Other
Compensation
$
(6)
Total $
        
Mr. Mussallem20221,213,0385,583,0386,186,115869,400140,55413,992,145
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer20211,153,0405,230,1755,501,1181,581,770147,20213,613,305
20201,121,2993,731,4094,232,880734,993230,35210,050,933
Mr. Ullem2022704,8161,314,0251,457,589319,64365,3263,861,399
Corporate Vice President,
Chief Financial Officer
2021664,6881,244,4511,306,053573,03681,1753,869,403
2020647,07949,5831,091,0841,236,859262,50098,8603,385,965
Mr. Lemercier2022665,635
2,228,867(7)
2,446,507(7)361,414(5)208,6895,911,112
Corporate Vice President2021654,236693,922728,243532,209433,522239,5173,281,649
2020625,360604,174688,517254,7461,925,308246,8104,344,915
Mr. Wood2022695,3362,0001,165,2651,293,106337,23865,8763,558,821
Corporate Vice President2021658,0632,0001,114,0851,170,952567,41877,7263,590,244
2020639,273968,3691,097,961273,000101,1143,079,717
Mr. Zovighian2022641,9221,092,2101,209,870344,86249,5633,338,427
Corporate Vice President
(1)    The amounts shown for 2022 include amounts that were deferred into the EDCP as follows: Mr. Mussallem – $173,521; Mr. Ullem – $57,566; Mr. Lemercier – $0; Mr. Wood – $56,672, and Mr. Zovighian – $139,603. The EDCP is more fully described in the section following the “Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plans” table below. Mr. Lemercier’s salary is paid in Swiss Francs and reported in this table by converting Swiss Francs to United States dollars using an exchange ratio of 1.0504, 1.0917 and 1.0657 (each of which is our average monthly intercompany Swiss Franc to United States dollar exchange rate for the year), for years 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
(2)    The amounts shown for Mr. Wood include awards received through our Innovation Rewards Program which compensates active employee inventors for their patent contributions to our Company.

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation |    2018I2023 Proxy Statement

45


  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  

The table below sets forth thegrant-date fair value determined in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification Topic 718 for the PBRSUs awarded in fiscal 2017, 2016, and 2015 based upon the probable outcome of theperformance-related vesting conditions as of the grant date (we judged the “target” level of performance to be the probable outcome as of the grant date of the awards), and thegrant-date fair value of these awards determined on that basis but assuming that the maximum level of performance was achieved.

  Name  Year  

Probable Outcome of

Performance Conditions

Grant-Date Fair Value

($)

  

Maximum Outcome of

Performance Conditions

Grant-Date Fair Value

($)

   

Mr. Mussallem

    2017   $2,071,342   $3,624,849  
    2016    1,703,181    2,980,566  
    2015    1,525,260    2,669,205  

Mr. Ullem

    2017    522,158    913,777  
    2016    426,521    746,411  
    2015    384,782    673,368  

Mr. Bobo

    2017    501,410    877,468  
    2016    426,521    746,411  
    2015    384,782    673,368  

Ms. Szyman

    2017    470,288    823,004  
    2016    397,506    695,635  
    2015    370,916    649,102  

Mr. Wood

    2017    501,410    877,468  
    2016    412,013    721,023  
     2015    370,916    649,102     

(4)

Amounts shown in this column for 2017 were earned under the Incentive Plan based on achievement of performance criteria for 2017, as described in the “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” above. Amounts shown for Mr. Bobo include $200,618 deferred into the EDCP. Amounts earned but not deferred were paid to the executives for 2017 performance.

(5)

The “All Other Compensation” column includes the following amounts paid to the NEOs for the year ended December 31, 2017. The amounts disclosed are the actual costs to us of providing these benefits.

  Type of Compensation Mr. Mussallem Mr. Ullem Mr. Bobo Ms. Szyman Mr. Wood   

 

401(k) Company Match

 

  

 

$

 

 

10,800

 

 

 

  

 

$

 

 

10,800

 

 

 

  

 

$

 

 

10,800

 

 

 

  

 

$

 

 

10,800

 

 

 

  

 

$

 

 

10,800

 

 

 

  

 

EDCP Company Contribution

 

  

 

 

 

 

118,144

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

26,039

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

41,367

 

 

 

  

 

Car Allowance or Company Car Lease Payments

 

   

 

13,200

 

 

   

 

10,800

 

 

   

 

10,800

 

 

   

 

10,800

 

 

   

 

10,800

 

 

  

 

Officer Perquisites Flexible Allowance (includes, among other things, financial planning expenses, airline club dues, club membership dues, home office supplies, personal travel expenses)

 

   

 

40,000

 

 

   

 

20,000

 

 

   

 

20,000

 

 

   

 

20,000

 

 

   

 

20,000

 

 

  

 

Reimbursement for Annual Physical Examination Expenses

 

   

 

0

 

 

   

 

1,500

 

 

   

 

200

 

 

   

 

0

 

 

   

 

3,649

 

 

  

 

Life Insurance Premiums

 

  

 

 

 

 

1,150

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

982

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

662

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

773

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

986

 

 

 

  

 

Relocation Benefits

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

9,657

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     

 

Totals

 

  

 

$

 

 

183,294

 

 

 

  

 

$

 

 

44,082

 

 

 

  

 

$

 

 

68,501

 

 

 

  

 

$

 

 

52,030

 

 

 

  

 

$

 

 

87,602

 

 

 

     


(3)    The amounts reported in these columns reflect the aggregate grant-date fair value of the stock awards and option awards during the applicable year. These values have been determined under the principles used to calculate the grant-date fair value of equity awards for purposes of our financial statements in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification Topic 718. PBRSUs have been valued for this purpose based on a Monte Carlo simulation pricing model. For a discussion of the assumptions and methodologies used to value the awards reported in these columns, please see the discussion of stock awards and option awards contained in Note 14 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” in our 2022 Annual Report.

     Under the terms of our PBRSU awards at grant, between 0% and 175% of the target number of shares subject to the awards can vest based on performance and the other vesting conditions applicable to the awards. For the PBRSUs awarded to our NEOs in 2022, 2021 and 2020, the table below sets forth (i) the grant-date fair value of the awards determined in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification Topic 718, with these values determined based on a Monte Carlo simulation pricing model (included in the “Probable Outcome” column below), and (ii) the grant-date fair value of these awards assuming that the maximum level of performance was achieved.
    
Name  Year  
Probable Outcome of
Performance Conditions
Grant-Date Fair Value
($)
  
Maximum Outcome of
    Performance Conditions    
Grant-Date Fair Value
($)
    
Mr. Mussallem  20223,332,0255,831,044
     2021    3,231,008   5,654,264
     2020    2,188,776   3,830,357
Mr. Ullem    2022784,3751,372,656
     2021    768,570   1,344,998
     2020    638,651   1,117,640
Mr. Lemercier  20221,337,1372,339,989
     2021    427,988   748,979
     2020    353,428   618,500
Mr. Wood2022696,5251,218,919

    2021    687,192   1,202,586

2020    570,446   998,280
Mr. Zovighian    2022652,6001,142,050
 
 
            
(4)    Amounts shown in this column for 2022 were earned under the Incentive Plan based on achievement of performance criteria for 2022, as described in the “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” above. Amounts shown for Mr. Zovighian include $137,945 deferred into the EDCP.
(5)    Mr. Lemercier participates in our pension plan for salaried employees at our Nyon, Switzerland facility. The amounts shown include employer contributions and investment earnings, and do not include regular employee contributions of approximately $120,170 in 2022. The amount of Mr. Lemercier’s regular employee contributions to the Nyon Pension Plan (as defined below) are reflected in the total amount included in the “Salary” column of the “Summary Compensation Table.” In 2022, the present value of Mr. Lemercier's accumulated pension benefit decreased by $1,447,529. In accordance with SEC rules, this amount is not included in the Summary Compensation Table above because it is a negative number. See the “Pension Benefits” section below.
(6)    The “All Other Compensation” column includes the following amounts paid to our NEOs for the year ended December 31, 2022. The amounts disclosed are the actual costs to us of providing these benefits.

 
Type of Compensation
  
    Mr. Mussallem
 
 
    Mr. Ullem
 Mr. Lemercier 
 
    Mr. Wood
 
Mr. Zovighian 
401(k) Company Match $15,250 $15,250 $ $15,250 $15,250
EDCP Company Contribution  123,336  47,972    47,226  30,193
Company Contribution – Zurich vita Pension Plan (saving)      149,539    
Company Car Payments27,638
Officer Perquisites (Mobile Allowance, Gifts, Annual Physical Examination Expenses and Life Insurance Premiums)  1,968  2,104    3,400  4,120
Housing Allowance31,512
Totals  140,554  65,326  208,689*  65,876  49,563
*    Converted from Swiss Francs to United States dollars, using an exchange ratio of 1.0504 (which is our average monthly intercompany Swiss Franc to United States dollar exchange rate for the year).
(7) On July 7, 2022, in recognition of Mr. Lemerciers expanded role, overseeing Japan, Asia Pacific and Greater China in addition to Europe, Middle East, Asia and Latin America and in lieu of receiving May 2023 grant awards, he was awarded 54,500 stock options, 6,100 restricted stock units and 7,625 PBRSUs (based on the $98.43 closing price per share of our common stock on July 7, 2022).

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 46


Employment Agreements.    We entered into an amended and restated employment agreement with Mr. Mussallem on March 9, 2009, as described in the “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” section above. We do not have employment agreements with the other NEOs.Post-termination benefits for our NEOs are discussed in the section “Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control” section below.

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  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  


Grants ofPlan-Based Awards in Fiscal Year 2017

2022


The following table provides certain summary information concerning each grant of an incentive award made to NEOs in 20172022 under a compensation plan.

           

 

 

Estimated Future Payouts Under
Non-Equity Incentive Plan
Awards(2)

      

 

 

Estimated Future Payouts
Under Equity Incentive
Plan Awards(4)

  

All

Other
Stock
Awards:
Number of
Shares of
Stock/

Units
(#)

  

All Other
Option
Awards;
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Options
(#)

  

Exercise
or
Base
Price
of
Option
Awards
($/Share)

  

Closing
Price on
Grant
Date
($)

  

Grant-Date
Fair Value
of Stock
and Option
Awards
($)(8)

 
Name Grant
Date(1)
  Approval
Date
  Threshold
($)
 Target
($)
  Maximum
($)
     Threshold
(#)
 Target
(#)
  Maximum
(#)
      

  Mr. Mussallem  

  05/11/2017   05/10/2017   $1,400,000(3)  $2,800,000           —       117,400(6)  $110.25  $110.25  $3,631,053 
  05/11/2017   05/10/2017                  11,975(5)   —             1,320,244 
  

 

05/11/2017

 

 

 

  

 

05/10/2017

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

  

 

14,975

 

 

 

  

 

26,206

 

 

 

  

 

—    

 

 

 

  

 

—    

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

2,071,342

 

 

 

  Mr. Ullem

  05/11/2017   05/10/2017    427,450(3)   854,900           —         26,600(7)   110.25   110.25   914,598 
  05/11/2017   05/10/2017                    3,025(5)   —             333,506 
  

 

05/11/2017

 

 

 

  

 

05/10/2017

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

  

 

3,775

 

 

 

  

 

6,606

 

 

 

  

 

—    

 

 

 

  

 

—    

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

522,158

 

 

 

  Mr. Bobo

  05/11/2017   05/10/2017    432,600(3)   865,200           —         28,500(6)   110.25   110.25   881,474 
  05/11/2017   05/10/2017                    2,900(5)   —             319,725 
  

 

05/11/2017

 

 

 

  

 

05/10/2017

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

  

 

3,625

 

 

 

  

 

6,343

 

 

 

  

 

—    

 

 

 

  

 

—    

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

501,410

 

 

 

  Ms. Szyman

  05/11/2017   05/10/2017    396,550(3)   793,100           —         24,000(7)   110.25   110.25   825,202 
  05/11/2017   05/10/2017                    2,725(5)   —             300,431 
  

 

05/11/2017

 

 

 

  

 

05/10/2017

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

  

 

3,400

 

 

 

  

 

5,950

 

 

 

  

 

—    

 

 

 

  

 

—    

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

470,288

 

 

 

  Mr. Wood

  05/11/2017   05/10/2017    416,725(3)   833,450           —         25,600(7)   110.25   110.25   880,215 
  05/11/2017   05/10/2017                    2,900(5)   —             319,725 
   

 

05/11/2017

 

 

 

  

 

05/10/2017

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

     

 

  

 

3,625

 

 

 

  

 

6,343

 

 

 

  

 

—    

 

 

 

  

 

—    

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

501,410

 

 

 

(1)

Our practice is to grantequity-based awards on the date of the Board meeting following the Compensation Committee’s approval of the grants.

(2)


 
 
Estimated Future Payouts Under Non-Equity Incentive Plan Awards(2)

 
Estimated Future Payouts
Under Equity Incentive
Plan Awards
(4)
 
All Other
Stock
Awards:
Number of
Shares of
Stock/
Units (#)
All Other
Option
Awards;
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Options
(#)
Exercise
or Base
Price of
Option
Awards
($/Share)
Closing
Price on
Grant
Date
($)
Grant-Date  
Fair Value
of Stock
and
Option
Awards
($)
(8)
Name
Grant
Date
(1)
Approval DateThreshold
($)
Target
($)
Maximum
($)
Threshold
(#)
Target
(#)
Maximum
(#)
Mr. Mussallem__02/17/2022
 1,800,000 (3)
 3,600,000
 05/03/202205/02/2022
190,400 (6)
105.93105.936,186,115
 05/03/202205/02/2022
21,250 (5)
2,251,013
 05/03/202205/02/202226,55046,4623,332,025
 
Mr. Ullem__02/17/2022
 545,000 (3)
 1,090,000
 05/03/202205/02/2022
40,600 (7)
105.93105.931,457,589
 05/03/202205/02/2022
5,000 (5)
529,650
 05/03/202205/02/20226,25010,937784,375
         
Mr. Lemercier__02/17/2022
 480,349 (3)
 960,698
05/03/202205/02/2022
24,500 (6)
105.93105.93796,007
05/03/202205/02/2022
2,750 (5)
291,308
05/03/202205/02/20223,4255,993429,838
 
07/07/2022 (9)
07/06/2022
54,500 (6)
98.4398.431,650,500
 
07/07/2022 (9)
07/06/2022
6,100 (5)
600,423
 
07/07/2022 (9)
07/06/20227,62513,343907,299
         
Mr. Wood__02/17/2022
 575,000 (3)
 1,150,000
 05/03/202205/02/2022
39,800 (6)
105.93105.931,293,106
 05/03/202205/02/2022
4,425 (5)
468,740
 05/03/202205/02/20225,5509,712696,525
         
Mr. Zovighian__02/17/2022
 510,000 (3)
 1,020,000
 05/03/202205/02/2022
33,700 (7)
105.93105.931,209,870
 05/03/202205/02/2022
4,150 (5)
439,610

05/03/202205/02/20225,2009,100652,600
(1)    Our practice is to grant equity-based awards on the date of the Board meeting following our Compensation and Governance Committee’s approval of the grants.
(2)    These are awards payable under the Incentive Plan for 2022. See the discussion on “Annual Cash Incentive Payment” beginning at page 30 for additional information. Amounts for Mr. Lemercier were converted from Swiss Francs to United States dollars using an exchange rate of 1.086762 CHF/USD (reflects the exchange rate as of January 2022).
(3)    See the discussions beginning at page 30 on “2022 Annual Incentive Plan” and page 35 on “Annual Cash Incentive Payment” and on “Incentive Pay Objective” for additional information.
(4)    These are PBRSUs granted under the Incentive Plan for 2017. See the discussion on “Annual Cash Incentive Payment” at page 33 for additional information.

(3)

The awards to Mr. Mussallem, Mr. Bobo, Ms. Szyman, and Mr. Wood under the Incentive Plan for 2017 were intended to qualify asperformance-based compensation so as not to be subject to the $1 million limitation under Section 162(m). See the discussions at page 33 on “Annual Cash Incentive Payment” and on “Incentive Pay Objective” for additional information. The amounts set forth above represent the Incentive Pay Objective anticipated to be paid for performance that meetspre-established objectives, after the exercise of negative discretion by the Compensation Committee.

(4)

These are PBRSUs granted under theLong-Term Stock Program that vest based on a combination of certain length of service and market conditions. The material terms of the PBRSUs are described in the section “Equity Incentive PlanAwards—Performance-Based Restricted Stock Units” below.

(5)

RSUs with respect to shares of common stock are granted under theLong-Term Stock Program. RSUs become vested as to 50% of the total number of units subject to the award on each of the third and fourth anniversaries of the award date and are subject to the executive’s continued employment with the Company. The material terms of the RSUs are described in the section “Equity Incentive Plan Awards—Restricted Stock Units” below.

(6)

Options to acquire common stock are granted under theLong-Term Stock Program. Consistent with vesting standards established by the Company for its stock option grants to executives who areretirement-eligible, options vest and become exercisable in 36 equal monthly installments beginning one month after the award date, and are subject to the executive’s continued employment with the Company. The material terms of the options are described in the section “Equity Incentive Plan Awards—Stock Options” below.

(7)

Options to acquire common stock are granted under theLong-Term Stock Program. The options vest and become exercisable in four equal annual installments beginning on the first anniversary of the grant date. The material terms of the options are described in the section “Equity Incentive Plan Awards—Stock Options” below.

(8)

The amounts reported in this column reflect thegrant-date fair value of the stock award or option award determined under the principles used to calculate thegrant-date fair value of equity awards for purposes of our financial statements. For the assumptions and methodologies used to value the awards, see footnote 3 to the “Summary Compensation Table” above.

Non-Equity Incentive Plan Awards. The material terms of the PBRSUs are described in the section “Equity Incentive Plan Awards—Performance-Based Restricted Stock Units” below.

(5)    These are RSUs granted under the Long-Term Stock Program. RSUs granted in 2022 become vested in four equal annual installments beginning on the first anniversary of the grant date and are subject to the executive’s continued employment with our Company. The material terms of the RSUs are described in the section “Equity Incentive Plan Awards—Restricted Stock Units” below.
(6)    These are options to acquire common stock granted under the Long-Term Stock Program. Consistent with vesting standards established by our Company for its stock option grants to executives who are retirement-eligible, these options vest and become exercisable in 36 equal monthly installments beginning one month after the award date, and are subject to the executive’s continued employment with our Company. The material terms of the options are described in the section “Equity Incentive Plan Awards—Stock Options” below.
(7)    These are options to acquire common stock granted under the Long-Term Stock Program. Consistent with vesting standards established by our Company for its stock option grants to executives who are not retirement-eligible, this option vests and becomes exercisable in four equal annual installments beginning on the first anniversary of the grant date. The material terms of the options are described in the section “Equity Incentive Plan Awards—Stock Options” below.
(8)    The amounts reported in this column reflect the grant-date fair value of the stock award or option award determined under the principles used to calculate the grant-date fair value of equity awards for purposes of our financial statements. For the assumptions and methodologies used to value the awards, see footnote 3 to the “Summary Compensation Table” above

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 48


(9) These are awards to Mr. Lemercier in recognition of his expanded role, overseeing Japan, Asia Pacific and Greater China in addition to Europe, Middle East, Asia and Latin America and in lieu of receiving May 2023 grant awards.
Non-Equity Incentive Plan Awards.    The material terms of the non-equity incentive plan awards reported in the table above are described in the “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” section under the heading, “2022 Annual Incentive Plan” and “Elements of Compensation—Annual Cash Incentive Payment.”

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  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  

Equity Incentive Plan Awards.    Each of the equity incentive awards reported in the table above was granted under, and is subject to, the terms of theLong-Term Stock Program. TheOur Compensation and Governance Committee administers theLong-Term Stock Program and has authority to interpret the plan provisions and make all required determinations thereunder. Additional terms of the equity incentive awards reported in the table above are described in the “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” section under the heading, “Elements ofCompensation—Long-Term Incentive Awards” and in the footnotes accompanying the table above. The terms of the accelerated vesting provisions for equity incentive awards are described in this section and in the section titled “Potential Payments Upon a Termination or Change in Control.”

The table above reports awards of stock options granted to our NEOs in 2017.2022. Each option represents a contractual right to receive one share of Companyour common stock if the option becomes vested and is exercised, subject to payment of the exercise price of the option by the award holder. The terms of each option are summarized in the chart below.

STOCK OPTIONS

STOCK OPTIONS

Maximum Term (Expiration Date)

(expiration date)

Seven years from grant date

Exercise Price Per Share

Fair market value of a share of common stock on the grant date

Vesting Schedule—Regular (all option grants in the chart above awarded to Ms. Szyman, Mr.(Messrs. Ullem and Mr. Wood)

Zovighian)

25% annually over four years following the grant date

VestingSchedule—Retirement-Eligible (awards granted since May 2015 to allretirement-eligible executives, including Mr. (Messrs. Mussallem, Lemercier and Mr. Bobo)

Wood)

Monthly over 36 months following the grant date

VestingSchedule—Retirement-Eligible (awards granted before May 2015 to certainretirement-eligible executives, including Mr. Mussallem)

Monthly over 24 months following the grant date

Effect of Change in Control (awards granted before May 2015)

Accelerated vesting upon a change in control of the Company

Effect of Change in Control (awards granted since May 2015)

No automatic acceleration upon a change in control of theour Company

Accelerated vesting upon a change in control with either (1) a specified termination of employment (a“double-trigger” “double-trigger”) under the NEO’schange-in-control severance agreement, or (2) termination of the awards in connection with the change in control

Effect of Termination of Employment ofRetirement-

Eligible Retirement-Eligible NEOs (Mr.(Messrs. Mussallem, Lemercier and Mr. Bobo)

Wood)

Unvested options held by the NEO will immediately terminate and be forfeited

Vested options held by the NEO will remain exercisable and will terminate on the earlier of five years from termination date or the normal expiration date

Effect of Termination of Employment ofNon-Retirement-

Eligible Non-Retirement-Eligible NEOs (Ms. Szyman, Mr. (Messrs.Ullem and Mr. Wood)

Zovighian)

Unvested options held by the NEO will immediately terminate and be forfeited

Vested options held by the NEO will remain exercisable and will terminate on the earlier of 90 days from termination date or the normal expiration date

Effect of Termination of Employment due to Death or Disability

Unvested options held by the NEO will immediately vest
Dividend Rights

No dividend rights

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49


  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  


The “Grant ofPlan-Based Awards in Fiscal Year 2017”2022” table above reports awards of RSUs granted to our NEOs in 2017.2022. Each RSU represents a contractual right to receive one share of our common stock if thetime-based vesting requirements applicable to the award are satisfied, as summarized in the chart below.

RESTRICTED STOCK UNITS

Vesting Schedule

  50%25% of the total number of units subject to the award on the first, second, third and fourth anniversaries of the award date

  “Inducement” awards granted to Ms. Szyman and Mr. Ullem vest 25% annually over four years

Effect of Change in Control (awards granted before May 2015)

Accelerated vesting upon a change in control of Edwards

Effect of Change in Control (awards granted since May 2015)

No automatic acceleration upon a change in control of Edwards;our Company; accelerated vesting upon a change in control with either (1) a specified termination of employment (a“double-trigger” “double-trigger”) under the NEO’schange-in-control severance agreement, or (2) termination of the awards in connection with the change in control

Effect of Termination of Employment ofRetirement- Eligible NEOs (including Mr.(Messrs. Mussallem, Lemercier and Mr. Bobo)

Wood)

If the grant would otherwise vest less frequently than annually, RSUs held by the NEO will vest 25% for each full year of employment from the grant date

Any remaining unvested RSUs held by the NEO will terminate and be forfeited
Effect of Termination of Employment of Non-Retirement-Eligible NEOs (Messrs. Ullem and Zovighian)
Unvested RSUs held by the NEO will immediately terminate and be forfeited

Effect of Termination of Employment ofNon-Retirement-Eligible NEOs (including Ms. Szyman, Mr. Ullem and Mr. Wood)

due to Death or Disability

Unvested RSUs held by the NEO will immediately terminate and be forfeited

vest

Dividend Rights

Dividend equivalent units may be paid or credited, either in cash or in actual or phantom shares of common stock, on outstanding RSUs; however, to date we have never paid a dividend on our common stock


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 50


The “Grant ofPlan-Based Awards in Fiscal Year 2017”2022” table above reports awards of PBRSUs granted to our NEOs in 2017.2022. Each PBRSU represents a contractual right to receive one share of our common stock if theperformance-based andtime-based vesting requirements applicable to the award are satisfied, as summarized in the chart below.

PERFORMANCE-BASED RESTRICTED STOCK UNITS

Right and Vesting Schedule

Provisions

Receive

0% to 175% of the target number of shares subject to the award will vest based on our Company's TSR measured over a3-year performance period compared to comparator companies, generally subject to continued employment through the applicable vesting date

TSR Definition

For awards granted in May 2015, May 2016, and May 2017: the

 • The average of the closing price of a share for each trading day during the one month ending on the first day of the performance period compared to the average of the closing price of a share for each trading day during the one month ending on the last day of the performance period

Effect of Change in Control (awards granted before May 2015)

Upon a change in control:

  during the performance period, the PBRSUs will accelerate and immediately vest at 100% of the target level, or

  after the last day of the performance period and prior to the applicable scheduledtime-based vesting date, subject to the executive’s continued employment, will vest as to the number of units that otherwise would have become vested on the vesting date based on actual performance

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PERFORMANCE-BASED RESTRICTED STOCK UNITS (Continued)

Effect of Change in Control (awards granted since May 2015)

No automatic acceleration upon a change in control of Edwards;our Company; accelerated vesting upon a change in control with either (1) a specified termination of employment (a“double-trigger” “double-trigger”) under the NEO’schange-in-control severance agreement (with vesting at the “target” level if such a termination of employment occurs and the change in control occurred during the performance period), or (2) termination of the awards in connection with the change in control

Effect of Termination due to Death, Disability, Retirement or Termination Without “Cause” or for “Good Reason”

 • Any unvested PBRSUs will remain eligible to vest at the end of the performance period based on actual attainment of the performance goals, and, for termination due to retirement, the NEO will receive apro-rata portion of the shares subject to the award (after giving effect to the performance conditions) based on the NEO’s whole months of service during the performance period

Effect of any Other Termination of Employment

 • Any unvested PBRSUs held by the NEO will terminate and be forfeited

Compensation and Governance Committee Determination, Vesting Date

 • At the meeting of theour Compensation and Governance Committee in May after the end of the performance period, theour Compensation and Governance Committee will determine the exact number of shares issuable; payout will be interpolated on a linear basis between the points indicated in the vesting summariestable under “Performance Criteria” below

Dividend Rights

 • Dividend equivalent units may be paid or credited, either in cash or in actual or phantom shares of common stock, on outstanding RSUs; however, to date we have never paid a dividend on our common stock

Performance Period

 • Begins April 30 of the grant year and ends on April 30 in the third year following the grant year

Comparator Companies

 • Companies that were listed in the SPHESISPSIHE Subset on the grant date that are still publicly traded companies on the last day of the performance period

Performance Criteria

Performance Levels

Company’s TSR vs Median of
S&PHEI Companies

SPSIHE Subset

Payout as a Percentage
of Target Award

Maximum

Maximum

+7.5% points from median

Median

175%

Target

Target

Median

Median

100%

Threshold

Threshold

-7.5% points from median

Median

25%

No Payout

More than -7.5% points
from Median

More than-7.5% points
from median

0%

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51


  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  


Outstanding Equity Awards at 20172022 FiscalYear-End

The following table provides certain summary information concerning outstanding equity awards held by our NEOs as of December 31, 2017,2022, including the vesting schedules for the portions of these awards that had not vested as of that date.

      

Option Awards

 

    

Stock Awards

 

   
                        
  Name Award
Date
 Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Exercisable
 Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Unexercisable
 

Option
Exercise
Price

($)

 Option
Expiration
Date
    Number of
Shares or
Units of
Stock That
Have Not
Vested (#)
 

Market Value
of Shares
or Units of
Stock That
Have not
Vested

($)(1)

 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

($)(1)

   

 

Mr. Mussallem

  

 

 

 

05/12/2011

 

  

 

 

 

151,000

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

$

 

44.615

 

  

 

 

 

05/11/2018

 

    

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  
   05/09/2012   332,800      42.725   05/08/2019                
   05/14/2013   468,600      35.785   05/13/2020                
   05/08/2014   383,200      41.940   05/07/2021                
   05/14/2015   164,638   26,562(2)   65.280   05/13/2022                
   05/12/2016   62,012   55,488(2)   105.590   05/11/2023                
   05/11/2017   22,827   94,573(2)   110.250   05/10/2024                
   05/14/2015                 17,600(3)  $1,983,696        
   05/14/2015                       22,000(4)  $2,479,620  
   05/12/2016                 11,750(3)   1,324,343        
   05/12/2016                       14,675(4)   1,654,019  
   05/11/2017                 11,975(3)   1,349,702        
    05/11/2017                          14,975(4)   1,687,832     

 

Total

 

       

 

 

 

 

1,585,077

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

176,623

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

       

 

 

 

 

41,325

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

51,650

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     

 

Mr. Ullem

  

 

 

 

02/20/2014

 

  

 

 

 

131,276

 

  

 

 

 

43,760

 

(5)

  

 

$

 

34.050

 

  

 

 

 

02/19/2021

 

    

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  
   05/08/2014   60,450   20,150(5)   41.940   05/07/2021                
   05/14/2015   22,100   22,100(5)   65.280   05/13/2022                
   05/12/2016   6,725   20,175(5)   105.590   05/11/2023                
   05/11/2017      26,600(5)   110.250   05/10/2024                
   02/20/2014                 25,698(6)  $2,896,422        
   07/10/2014                 568(3)   64,019        
   05/14/2015                 4,450(3)   501,560        
   05/14/2015                       5,550(4)  $625,541  
   05/12/2016                 2,925(3)   329,677        
   05/12/2016                       3,675(4)   414,209  
   05/11/2017                 3,025(3)   340,948        
   05/11/2017                       3,775(4)   425,480  

 

Total

 

       

 

 

 

 

220,551

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

132,785

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

       

 

 

 

 

36,666

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

13,000

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     

 

Mr. Bobo

  

 

 

 

05/12/2011

 

  

 

 

 

15,900

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

$

 

44.615

 

  

 

 

 

05/11/2018

 

    

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  
   05/09/2012   75,600      42.725   05/08/2019                
   05/14/2013   69,800      35.785   05/13/2020                
   05/08/2014   62,850   20,950(5)   41.940   05/07/2021                
   05/14/2015   22,100   22,100(5)   65.280   05/13/2022                
   05/12/2016   6,725   20,175(5)   105.590   05/11/2023                
   05/11/2017   5,541   22,959(2)   110.250   05/10/2024                
   05/14/2015                 4,450(3)  $501,560        
   05/14/2015                       5,550(4)  $625,541  
   05/12/2016                 2,925(3)   329,677        
   05/12/2016                       3,675(4)   414,209  
   05/11/2017                 2,900(3)   326,859        
   05/11/2017                       3,625(4)   408,574  

 

Total

 

       

 

 

 

 

258,516

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

86,184

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

       

 

 

 

 

10,275

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

12,850

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     

48    LOGO     

  
 
Option Awards
 
Stock Awards
 
NameAward
Date
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Exercisable
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Unexercisable
Option
Exercise
Price
($)
Option
Expiration
Date
Number of
Shares or
Units of
Stock That
Have Not
Vested (#)
Market Value
of Shares
or Units of
Stock That
Have Not
Vested
($)(1)
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
($)(1)
        
Mr. Mussallem05/12/2016146,87535.196705/11/2023
 05/11/2017352,20036.750005/10/2024
 05/17/2018312,90045.276705/16/2025
 05/08/2019256,80059.256705/07/2026
 05/07/2020182,634
29,466 (2)
72.680005/06/2027
 05/04/2021110,830
99,170 (2)
93.310005/03/2028
 05/03/202237,021
153,379 (2)
105.930005/02/2029
 05/08/2019
13,014 (3)
970,975
 05/07/2020
10,614 (4)
791,911
 05/07/2020
26,475 (5)
1,975,300
 05/04/2021
16,069 (4)
1,198,908
 05/04/2021
26,800 (5)
1,999,548
 05/03/2022
21,250 (4)
1,585,463
05/03/2022
26,550 (5)
1,980,896
        
Total1,399,260282,01560,9474,547,25779,8255,955,744
        
Mr. Ullem05/12/201680,70035.196705/11/2023
 05/11/201779,80036.750005/10/2024
 05/17/201867,50045.276705/16/2025
 05/08/201944,775
14,925 (6)
59.256705/07/2026
 05/07/202028,050
28,050 (6)
72.680005/06/2027
05/04/202111,100
33,300 (6)
93.310005/03/2028
05/03/2022
40,600 (6)
105.930005/02/2029
 02/21/2019
864 (3)
64,463
 05/08/2019
3,375 (3)
251,809
 05/07/2020
3,114 (4)
232,336
 05/07/2020
7,725 (5)
576,362
 05/04/2021
3,825 (4)
285,383
 05/04/2021
6,375 (5)
475,639
 05/03/2022
5,000 (4)
373,050
05/03/2022
6,250 (5)
466,313
        
Total311,925116,87516,1781,207,04120,3501,518,314







Edwards Lifesciences Corporation |    2018I2023 Proxy Statement

52


  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  

      

Option Awards

 

    

Stock Awards

 

   
                        
  Name Award
Date
 Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Exercisable
 Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Unexercisable
 

Option
Exercise
Price

($)

 Option
Expiration
Date
    Number of
Shares or
Units of
Stock That
Have Not
Vested (#)
 

Market Value
of Shares
or Units of
Stock That
Have not
Vested

($)(1)

 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

($)(1)

   

 

Ms. Szyman

  

 

 

 

02/19/2015

 

  

 

 

 

14,284

 

  

 

 

 

14,286

 

(5)

  

 

$

 

66.860

 

  

 

 

 

02/18/2022

 

    

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  
   05/14/2015   3,246   3,248(5)   65.280   05/13/2022                
   05/14/2015   21,400   21,400(5)   65.280   05/13/2022                
   05/12/2016   6,300   18,900(5)   105.590   05/11/2023                
   05/11/2017      24,000(5)   110.25   05/10/2024                
   02/19/2015                 12,340(6)  $1,390,841        
   05/14/2015                 2,806(6)   316,264        
   05/14/2015                 4,300(3)   484,653        
   05/14/2015                       5,350(4)   $602,999  
   05/12/2016                 2,750(3)   309,953        
   05/12/2016                       3,425(4)   386,032  
   05/11/2017                 2,725(3)   307,135        
   05/11/2017                       3,400(4)   383,214  

 

Total

 

       

 

 

 

 

45,230

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

81,834

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

       

 

 

 

 

24,921

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

12,175

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     

 

Mr. Wood

  

 

 

 

05/09/2012

 

  

 

 

 

75,600

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

$

 

42.725

 

  

 

 

 

05/08/2019

 

    

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  
   02/20/2014   3,750   1,252(5)   34.050   02/19/2021                
   05/08/2014   60,450   20,150(5)   41.940   05/07/2021                
   05/14/2015   21,400   21,400(5)   65.280   05/13/2022                
   05/12/2016   6,525   19,575(5)   105.590   05/11/2023                
   05/11/2017      25,600(5)   110.250   05/10/2024                
   07/10/2014                 1,136(3)  $128,039        
   05/14/2015                 4,300(3)   484,653        
   05/14/2015                       5,350(4)   $602,999  
   05/12/2016                 2,850(3)   321,224        
   05/12/2016                       3,550(4)   400,121  
   05/11/2017                 2,900(3)   326,859        
   05/11/2017                       3,625(4)   408,574  

 

Total

 

       

 

 

 

 

167,725

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

87,977

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

       

 

 

 

 

11,186

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

12,525

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     

(1)

The dollar amounts shown in this column are determined by multiplying the number of shares or units reported in the “Number of Shares or Units of Stock That Have Not Vested” column by $112.71, the closing price of our common stock on the last trading day of 2017.

(2)

Options to acquire common stock granted under theLong-Term Stock Program. Consistent with vesting standards established for executives who are retirement eligible, including Mr. Mussallem and Mr. Bobo, options granted since May 2015 vest and become exercisable in 36 equal monthly installments beginning one month after the award date, and are subject to the executive’s continued employment.

(3)

RSUs under theLong-Term Stock Program. RSUs become vested as to 50% of the total number of units subject to the award on each of the third and fourth anniversaries of the award date, and are subject to the executive’s continued employment.

(4)

Target number of PBRSUs under theLong-Term Stock Program. PBRSUs vest on the third anniversary of the award date, and are subject to the executive’s continued employment. The number of shares issuable upon vesting of these PBRSUs will range from 0% to 175% of the target number of shares subject to the award and depend on satisfaction of applicable performance requirements over athree-year performance period.

(5)

Options to acquire common stock granted under theLong-Term Stock Program. The options vest and become exercisable in four equal annual installments beginning on the first anniversary of the award date, and are subject to the executive’s continued employment.

(6)

RSUs under theLong-Term Stock Program. “Buyout” RSUs granted in 2014 to Mr. Ullem and “inducement” RSUs granted in 2015 to Ms. Szyman become vested in four equal annual installments beginning on the first anniversary of the award date, and are subject to the executive’s continued employment.

LOGO     


 
Option Awards
 
Stock Awards
 
NameAward
Date
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Exercisable
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Unexercisable
Option
Exercise
Price
($)
Option
Expiration
Date
Number of
Shares or
Units of
Stock That
Have Not
Vested (#)
Market Value
of Shares
or Units of
Stock That
Have Not
Vested
($)(1)
Equity
Incentive
Plan Awards:
Number of
Unearned
Shares, Units
or Other
Rights That
Have Not
Vested (#)
Equity
Incentive
Plan Award:
Market or
Payout
Value
of Unearned
Shares, Units
or Other
Rights That
Have Not
Vested
($)(1)
       
Mr. Lemercier05/12/201619,92035.196705/11/2023
 05/11/201743,20036.750005/10/2024
 05/17/201847,70045.276705/16/2025
 05/08/201938,40059.256705/07/2026
 05/07/202029,706
4,794 (2)
72.680005/06/2027
 05/04/202114,671
13,129 (2)
93.310005/03/2028
 05/03/20224,763
19,737 (2)
105.930005/02/2029
07/07/2022 (7)
7,569
46,931 (2)
98.430007/06/2029
 05/08/2019
1,950 (3)
145,490
 05/07/2020
1,725 (4)
128,702
 05/07/2020
4,275 (5)
318,958
 05/04/2021
2,138 (4)
159,516
 05/04/2021
3,550 (5)
264,866
 05/03/2022
2,750 (4)
205,178
05/03/2022
3,425 (5)
255,539
07/07/2022 (7)
6,100 (4)
455,121
07/07/2022 (7)
7,625 (5)
568,901
      
Total205,92914,6631,094,0071,408,264
       
Mr. Wood05/17/201864,80045.276705/16/2025
 05/08/201940,275
13,425 (6)
59.256705/07/2026
 05/07/202024,900
24,900 (6)
72.680005/06/2027
 05/04/202123,591
21,109 (2)
93.310005/03/2028
 05/03/20227,738
32,062 (2)
105.930005/02/2029
 05/08/2019
3,039 (3)
226,740
 05/07/2020
2,739 (4)
204,357
 05/07/2020
6,900 (5)
514,809
 05/04/2021
3,432 (4)
256,062
 05/04/2021
5,700 (5)
425,277
 05/03/2022
4,425 (4)
330,149
05/03/2022
5,550 (5)
414,086
      
Total161,30413,6351,017,3081,354,172
Mr. Zovighian05/17/201814,92545.276705/16/2025
05/08/201938,025
12,675 (6)
59.256705/07/2026
05/07/202023,100
23,100 (6)
72.680005/06/2027
05/04/20219,350
28,050 (6)
93.310005/03/2028
05/03/2022
33,700 (6)
105.930005/02/2029
05/08/2019
2,889 (3)
215,548
05/07/2020
2,550 (4)
190,256
05/07/2020
6,375 (5)
475,639
05/04/2021
3,207 (4)
239,274
05/04/2021
5,350 (5)
399,164
05/03/2022
4,150 (4)
309,632
05/03/2022
5,200 (5)
387,972
Total85,40097,52512,796954,7101,262,775
(1)    The dollar amounts shown in this column are determined by multiplying the number of shares or units reported in the “Number of Shares or Units of Stock That Have Not Vested” column by $74.61, the closing price of our common stock on the last trading day of 2022.
(2)    Options to acquire common stock granted under the Long-Term Stock Program. Consistent with vesting standards established for executives who are retirement eligible, including Messrs. Mussallem, Lemercier, and Wood, options granted since May 2015 vest and become exercisable in 36 equal monthly installments beginning one month after the award date, and are subject to the executive’s continued employment.

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation |    2018I2023 Proxy Statement49

53


  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  


(3)    RSUs under the Long-Term Stock Program. RSUs become vested as to 50% of the total number of units subject to the award on each of the third and fourth anniversaries of the award date, and are subject to the executive’s continued employment.
(4)    RSUs under the Long-Term Stock Program. RSUs granted since February 2020 become vested as to 25% of the total number of units subject to the award on each anniversary of the award date, and are subject to the executive’s continued employment.
(5)    Target number of PBRSUs under the Long-Term Stock Program. PBRSUs vest on the third anniversary of the award date and are subject to the executive’s continued employment. The number of shares issuable upon vesting of these PBRSUs will range from 0% to 175% of the target number of shares subject to the award and depend on satisfaction of applicable performance requirements over a three-year performance period.
(6)    Options to acquire common stock granted under the Long-Term Stock Program. The options vest and become exercisable in four equal annual installments beginning on the first anniversary of the award date, and are subject to the executive’s continued employment.
(7) On July 7, 2022, in recognition of Mr. Lemerciers expanded role, overseeing Japan, Asia Pacific and Greater China in addition to Europe, Middle East, Asia and Latin America and in lieu of receiving May 2023 grant awards, he was awarded 54,500 stock options, 6,100 restricted stock units and 7,625 PBRSUs (based on the $98.43 closing price per share of our common stock on July 7, 2022).
Option Exercises and Stock Vested in Fiscal Year 2017

2022

The following table sets forth for each of theour NEOs the number of shares of our common stock acquired under the NEO’s RSU and PBRSU awards that vested during the year ended December 31, 2022, and the value realized on each exercise of stock options by the NEO during the year ended December 31, 2017.2022. No stock appreciation rights have been granted to our NEOs.
 
Option Awards
 
Stock Awards
 
Name
Number of
Shares
    Acquired on    
Exercise(#)
    Value Realized
on Exercise
($)
(1)
    Number of Shares    
Acquired on
Vesting(#)
Value Realized
on Vesting
($)
(2)
Mr. Mussallem
430,875 (3)
 30,341,818 96,405 9,646,625
Mr. Ullem 25,838 2,590,444
Mr. Lemercier
34,880 (4)
 3,050,413 14,496 1,449,795
Mr. Wood
76,800 (5)
 4,476,145 22,553 2,255,999
Mr. Zovighian 21,279 2,128,907
(1)    The dollar amounts shown are determined by multiplying (i) the NEOs.

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

 

Mr. Mussallem

 

   

 

 

 

 

475,700

 

 

(3) 

 

  

 

$

 

 

33,810,463

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

45,557

 

 

 

   

 

$

 

 

5,016,527

 

 

 

 

 

Mr. Ullem

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

36,766

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

3,534,349

 

 

 

 

 

Mr. Bobo

 

   

 

 

 

 

195,500

 

 

(4) 

 

  

 

 

 

 

13,726,540

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

10,850

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

1,199,793

 

 

 

 

 

Ms. Szyman

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

7,572

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

679,511

 

 

 

 

 

Mr. Wood

 

   

 

 

 

 

94,800

 

 

(5) 

 

  

 

 

 

 

7,078,456

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

11,634

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

1,295,095

 

 

 

  

number of shares of our common stock to which the exercise of the option related, by (ii) the difference between the per-share sale price of our common stock on the date of exercise and the exercise price of the options.
(2)    The dollar amounts shown are determined by multiplying (i) the number of shares or units, as applicable, that vested, by (ii) the per-share closing market price of our common stock on the day prior to vesting.
(3)    All 430,875 options exercised by Mr. Mussallem were exercised pursuant to a pre-arranged stock trading plan established under Rule 10b5-1 of the Exchange Act (a “Rule 10b5-1 Plan”).
(4)    All 34,880 options exercised by Mr. Lemercier were exercised pursuant to a Rule 10b5-1 Plan.
(5)    All 76,800 options exercised by Mr. Wood were exercised pursuant to a Rule 10b5-1 Plan.
Pension Benefits
Mr. Lemercier participates in our pension plan applicable to salaried employees at our Nyon, Switzerland facility. None of our other NEOs participates in any Company pension plan. The following table sets forth the actuarial present value of Mr. Lemercier’s accumulated benefit under the Nyon pension plan (the “Nyon Pension Plan”).
(1)

The dollar amounts shown in the “Value Realized on Exercise” column are determined by multiplying (i) the number

NamePlan NameNumber of shares Years
of our common stock to which the exercise
Credited Service
(#)
Present Value  of the option related, by (ii) the difference between theper-share closing price of our common stock on the date of exercise and the exercise price of the options.


Accumulated
Benefit
($)
(1)
Payments During
Last Fiscal Year
($)
Mr. Mussallem
Mr. Ullem
Mr. LemercierNyon Pension Plan
$11,976,809(2)
Mr. Wood
Mr. Zovighian

(2)

The dollar amounts shown in the “Value Realized on Vesting” column are determined by multiplying (i) the number of shares or units, as applicable, that vested, by (ii) theper-share closing market price of our common stock on the day prior to vesting.

(3)

All 475,700 options exercised by Mr. Mussallem were exercised pursuant to apre-arranged stock trading plan established underRule 10b5-1 of the Exchange Act (a“Rule 10b5-1 Plan”).

(4)

131,000 options exercised by Mr. Bobo were exercised pursuant to a Rule10b5-1 Plan.

(5)

All 94,800 options exercised by Mr. Wood were exercised pursuant to a Rule10b5-1 Plan.

(1)    See Note 13 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” in our 2022 Annual Report for a discussion of the assumptions and methodologies used to determine the present value of accumulated benefits under the Nyon Pension Plan.
(2)    Reported in this table by converting Swiss Francs to United States dollars using an exchange ratio of 1.076915 as of December 31, 2022.
The Nyon Pension Plan is a cash balance plan under which each participant has an account balance consisting of savings and interest credits earned each year. Interest credits are determined annually. Savings credits are equal to a percentage of “insured salary” based upon the age of the participant (ranging from 15% at age 18 to 28% at age 55 or older for managers opting for an additional optional contribution of 4%). Insured salary includes salary, temporary income and bonus reduced by social security offsets. The plan is funded by both employee and employer contributions, which are fully vested at all times.

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 54


Mr. Lemercier made a regular employee contribution of approximately $120,170 in 2022. Normal retirement age is 65. At normal retirement, a participant may choose to receive the accumulated account balance as either a lump sum or in the form of a pension annuity.
Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plans

Executive Deferred Compensation Plan.    The following table sets forth information relating to our nonqualified deferred compensation plan (“EDCP”) for 20172022 for our NEOs.

Name
Executive Contributions
in Last Fiscal Year
($) (1)
Registrant
Contributions
in Last Fiscal Year
($) (2)
Aggregate Earnings
in Last Fiscal Year
($)
(3)
Aggregate
Withdrawals/
Distributions
($)
 Aggregate Balance  
at Last Fiscal Year End
($)
(4)
Mr. Mussallem173,521123,337(2,783,768)7,927,288
Mr. Ullem57,56647,972(48,220)359,410
Mr. Lemercier
Mr. Wood56,67247,226(326,831)1,450,185
Mr. Zovighian139,60330,193(209,317)1,170,769
(1)    Executive contributions for 2022 are included in the “Salary” column of the “Summary Compensation Table” above.
(2)    Company contributions for 2022 are included in the “All Other Compensation” column of the “Summary Compensation Table” above.
(3)    “Earnings” is defined to reflect the difference in the account balance between the beginning and end of the year, less any executive or Company contributions and any amounts withdrawn or distributed. Earnings include realized and unrealized gains and losses, capital gains and losses, and dividends paid.
(4)    The vested balance at the end of 2022 reflects the following aggregate amounts that were previously reported as compensation in the appropriate columns of the “Summary Compensation Table” for years through and including 2022 to the extent the executive was an NEO for the NEOs.

  Name Executive
Contributions in Last
Fiscal Year
($)
(1)
 Registrant
Contributions in Last
Fiscal Year
($)
(2)
 Aggregate Earnings
in Last Fiscal Year
($)
(3)
 Aggregate
Withdrawals/
Distributions
($)
 Aggregate Balance
at Last Fiscal
Year-End
($)

 

Mr. Mussallem

 

  

 

$

 

 

207,653

 

 

 

  

 

$

 

 

118,144

 

 

 

  

 

$

 

 

51,418

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

                —

 

 

 

  

 

$

 

 

4,813,772

 

 

 

 

Mr. Ullem

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mr. Bobo

 

  

 

 

 

 

355,617

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

26,039

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

39,969

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

5,028,345

 

 

 

 

Ms. Szyman

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

1,383,261

 

 

 

 

Mr. Wood

 

  

 

 

 

 

62,050

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

41,367

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

12,801

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

649,477

 

 

 

(1)

Executive contributions for 2017 are included in the “Salary” column of the “Summary Compensation Table” above.

(2)

Company contributions for 2017 are included in the “All Other Compensation” column of the “Summary Compensation Table” above.

(3)

“Earnings” is defined to reflect the difference in the account balance between the beginning and end of the year, less any executive or Company contributions and any amounts withdrawn or distributed. Earnings include realized and unrealized gains and losses, capital gains and losses, and dividends paid.

applicable year: $10,414,198 for Mr. Mussallem, $302,092 for Mr. Ullem, $0 for Mr. Lemercier, $1,673,118 for Mr. Wood, and $994,792 for Mr. Zovighian. In addition, Mr. Zovighian deferred $215,498 from his 2021 Non-Equity Incentive payout into the EDCP.

The EDCP provides theour NEOs and certain other employees with the opportunity to defer specified percentages (up to 25%) of their cash compensation and receive matching employer contributions that could not be deferred or contributed to the 401(k) because of the limitations under such plan imposed by the Code.Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”). The EDCP also permits the participants to defer up to 100% of their annual cash incentive bonus and an additional 55% of their base pay, but we do not match the employee contribution above 25%. Participants may elect deferred amounts to be paid either in the form of either a lump sum or in up to 15 annual installments upon either upon separation from service, a specified date, or death. Deferrals are credited with gains or losses based on the performance of one or more investment alternatives selected by the participant from among investment funds chosen by theour Compensation and Governance Committee or its delegate. Investment elections made for each plan year may not be revoked, changed or modified except as permitted under the EDCP, and subject to applicable law. No actual investments will be held in the participants’ accounts and participants will at all times remain general unsecured creditors of theour Company with respect to their account balances.

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  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  

Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control


Included below is a summary of the material terms and conditions of the onlyplans and agreements we have entered into with our NEOsmaintain that provide for certain payments and benefits in connection with a termination of theirour NEOs employment, other than benefits that are part of employee benefit plans that apply on the same terms to all salaried employees. Also described below are the terms of theLong-Term Stock Program with respect to outstanding equity awards that may apply in the event of a change in control of theour Company.

Change-in-Control Severance Agreements.    We have entered intochange-in-control severance agreements with each of theour NEOs and certain other executives. Thechange-in-control severance agreements entered into with Messrs. Mussallem, Bobo and Wood were subject to an initial term ending December 31, 2013, and thechange-in-control severance agreements entered into with Ms. Szyman and Mr. Ullem were subject to initial terms ending December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively. Thechange-in-control severance agreements are subject to automaticone-year extensions each year unless we provide notice that the agreement will not be extended. Under the terms of thechange-in-control severance agreement, each executive is entitled to receive certain severance payments if, at any time during the period commencing six months prior to and ending on the date that is 24 months following a change in control, the executive incurs a “qualifying termination” of employment. For these purposes, a “qualifying termination” means (i) the executive is involuntarily terminated by us without cause;cause or (ii) the executive voluntarily terminates employment for good reason.

For purposes of thechange-in-control severance agreements, “cause” generally includes (1) certain willful and deliberate material breaches by the executive of the executive’s duties and responsibilities that are not timely remedied; (2) the executive engaging in conduct that is willfully, demonstrably and materially injurious to theour Company that is not timely remedied; or (3) the executive being convicted of, or pleading guilty ornolo contendere to, a felony that adversely affects the reputation of the executive or theour Company.

For theour NEOs other than Mr. Mussallem, “good reason” generally includes (1) a material change of the executive’s responsibilities or status or the assignment of the executive to duties materially inconsistent with such responsibilities or status; (2) a relocation in excess of 50 miles of the executive’s principal job location; (3) a reduction of the executive’s

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 55


base salary, incentive plans or benefits; (4) our failure to require any successor company to assume the obligations under the agreement; or (5) a material breach by theour Company of the material terms of the agreement. For Mr. Mussallem, “good reason” generally has the same meaning described above, except that the definition also includes that following a change in control (1)(i) Mr. Mussallem is no longer a member of theour Board or fails to be nominated for reelection to theour Board; or (2)(ii) Mr. Mussallem and theour Company (or any successor company) have not mutually agreed (within five business days following a change in control) on the terms and conditions of his continued employment.


In the event of a qualifying termination, the executive would be entitled under the change-in-control severance agreement to receive a lump sum payment equal to the sum of (1) two times (three times in the case of Mr. Mussallem) the executive's annual base salary as of the time of termination (or during the 12 months preceding the change in control, if higher); (2) two times (three times in the case of Mr. Mussallem) the executive's Incentive Pay Objective for the year of termination (or the dollar amount of the actual bonus paid in the preceding year, if higher); (3) apro-rated bonus for the year of termination; (4) allaccelerated vesting of the executive’s then-outstanding and unvestedlong-term incentive awards would generally be subject to accelerated vesting;awards; and (5) continued participation in our medical and dental plans for three years following termination of employment. In addition, the executive would be entitled to reasonable outplacement services. If any such payments or benefits would constitute a parachute payment under Section 280G of the Code, then such payments and benefits would either (i) be reduced to the extent necessary to assureso that the executive receives only the greater of (1) the amountnone of the payments which would not constitute a parachute payment, or (2)(ii) paid to the amount whichexecutive in full, whichever yields the greatestafter-tax benefit after taking into account any excise taxes imposed under Section 4999 of the Code. Thechange-in-control severance agreements do not provide for taxgross-up payments. Receipt of these severance benefits is conditioned upon the executive executing and not revoking a general release of any claims in favor of theour Company.

Thechange-in-control severance agreements for theour NEOs other than Mr. Mussallem provide that, in the event the executive is entitled to benefits under our Severance Pay Plan (the “Severance Plan”), which is described below, and the executive also has a qualifying termination under thechange-in-control severance agreement, the executive will be entitled to the benefits under thechange-in-control severance agreement only, and installment payments under the

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  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  

Severance Plan will immediately terminate without offset or reduction for any benefits already received under the Severance Plan. In the event Mr. Mussallem becomes entitled to the benefits under hischange-in-control severance agreement following the time at which he became entitled to certain severance benefits under the terms of his employment agreement (which is described below), anythen-remaining severance benefits under his employment agreement will immediately terminate and he will only be entitled to benefits under hischange-in-control severance agreement, and the amount of certain severance benefits payable under hischange-in-control severance agreement will be reduced by the amount of the severance benefits previously paid under his employment agreement.

Employment Agreement with CEO.    On March 9, 2009, theour Company entered into an amended and restated employment agreement with Mr. Mussallem pursuant to which he is eligible to receive benefits in connection with certain termination circumstances. If Mr. Mussallem’s employment is terminated without cause, we will pay him the sum of (1) two times his highest base salary in the preceding 12 months; (2) the higher of one times his maximum target bonus for the year of termination, or two times the actual bonus paid in the preceding year; (3) apro-rated bonus for the year of termination; and (4) an amount equal to the cost of continued medical and dental coverage for up to 24 months. Mr. Mussallem will not be entitled to receive any such payments if he receives payments under hischange-in-control severance agreement and, as described above, any severance benefits Mr. Mussallem may receive under hischange-in-control severance agreement will be offset by any benefits he received under his employment agreement. For purposes of Mr. Mussallem’s employment agreement, “cause” generally includes (1)(i) the executive willfully engaging in conduct that is demonstrably and materially injurious to theour Company; or (2)(ii) the executive’s conviction of a felony.

If Mr. Mussallem’s employment is terminated due to retirement, disability or death, he will receive hispro-rated bonus for the year of termination and additional benefits as determined in accordance with our benefit plans.

For a period of 24 months following his termination of employment, Mr. Mussallem may not employ or solicit for employment any of our employees or consultants.


Severance Pay Plan.    We maintain the Severance Plan, under which theour NEOs (other than Mr. Mussallem)Messrs. Mussallem and Lemercier) and certain other U.S. employees are eligible to receive severance benefits in connection with a termination of the individual’s employment due to elimination of his or her position or a reduction in the size of our workforce. Benefits paid toIf an NEO (other than Mr. Mussallem)Messrs. Mussallem and Lemercier) becomes entitled to benefits under the Severance Plan, the NEO’s benefits will consist of cash severance equal to one andone-half times the executive’s “monthly compensation” (as defined in the Severance Plan), plus 4% of the executive’s monthly compensation multiplied by the number of whole months of service completed as of the date of termination. In no event will this cash severance exceed two times the executive’s annual compensation received in the preceding 12 months. Receipt of these severance benefits is conditioned upon the executive executing and not revoking a general release of any claims in favor of our Company.See“Change-in-Control “Change-in-Control Severance Agreements” section above for a description of the treatment of Severance Plan benefits if an NEO is also entitled to severance benefits under thechange-in-control severance agreement.

Severance Benefits for Mr. Lemercier.    Mr. Lemercier is eligible to receive severance benefits if his employment is terminated by our Company for any reason other than for cause. These benefits will consist of cash severance equal to one month of his monthly base salary for every year of service, capped at two years of his annual base salary. In addition, he will be entitled to six months advance notice of a termination of employment or pay in lieu of notice of an amount equal

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 56


to six months of his monthly base salary. Receipt of these severance benefits is conditioned upon the executive executing and not revoking a general release of any claims in favor of our Company. Mr. Lemercier will not be entitled to receive any such payments if he receives payments under his change-in-control severance agreement.
Acceleration of Equity Awards.    None of our outstanding unvested equity awards will vest automatically upon a change in control (i.e., we have no “single trigger” vesting arrangements). Pursuant to the terms of theLong-Term Stock Program, applicable toall unvested equity awards granted prior to May 2015, in the event of a change in control of the Company, all outstanding stock options, restricted stock, RSUs and PBRSUs held by all employees (including the NEOs)our NEOs will vest in full. This provision was amended as to awards granted since May 2015 such thatfull if there is both a change in control and a specified termination of employment (a“double-trigger” “double-trigger”) are required,, or if the awards must beare terminated in thechange-in-control transaction, in order for vesting of the awards to accelerate in connection with thechange-in-control transaction.

Estimated Payments.    The following tables set forth the estimated payments and benefits that would have been payable to theour NEOs under the terms of their agreements as described above had their employment been terminated on December 31, 20172022 under the termination circumstances indicated below. Unless otherwise noted, all cash payments would be made in a lump sum and would be paid by us or our successor. The amounts set forth in these tables represent estimates andforward-looking information that is are subject to substantial variation based on the timing of the applicable triggering event. We caution the reader to consider these limitations in reviewing the following tables.

For purposes of estimating the amount of payments and benefits payable as a result of a termination of the executive’s employment following a change in control, we have made the following assumptions where applicable:

the change in control occurred on December 31, 2017;

2022;

the stock price was $112.71$74.61 per share, which was the closing price of our common stock on December 29, 2017;

30, 2022, the last trading day in fiscal year 2022;

all NEOs were terminated on the date of the change in control; and

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  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  

the NEOs received continued participation in our medical and dental plans for three years following termination of employment.

We have also assumed that outstanding and unvested stock options, RSUs and RSUsPBRSUs held by the executive accelerated and became vested (to the extent required in the circumstances) on the applicable event. If the awards were accelerated in connection with a change in control pursuant to which the awards were to be terminated, the value of the acceleration would be the same as the applicable value indicated below for “Qualifying Termination in Connection with a Change in Control” assuming that the change in control occurred on December 31, 2017.2022. In these circumstances, there would be no additional value for the accelerated vesting of the awards in connection with a termination of employment if the awards had previously accelerated because of the change in control.

Executive Benefits and Payments upon Termination: Mr. Mussallem

    Qualifying
Termination
in
Connection
with a
Change in
Control
(1)
   Termination
Due to
Retirement
(2)
   Termination
Due to
Disability or
Death
(2)
   

Involuntary
Termination
by the

Company
Without  Cause
(2)

 

 

Salary Severance

 

  

 

 

 

 

$  3,000,000

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

$  2,000,000

 

 

 

 

 

Bonus Severance

 

  

 

 

 

 

6,684,678

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

4,456,452

 

 

 

 

 

Pro Rata Bonus – 2017

 

  

 

 

 

 

1,400,000

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

$1,400,000

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

$  1,400,000

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

1,400,000

 

 

 

 

 

Stock Option Acceleration

 

  

 

 

 

 

1,887,239

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

1,887,239

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Restricted Stock Unit Acceleration

 

  

 

 

 

 

4,657,741

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

1,654,019

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

3,334,807

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Performance-Based Stock Unit Acceleration

 

  

 

 

 

 

5,821,471

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

3,498,080

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

3,498,080

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

3,498,080

 

 

 

 

 

Medical and Dental Coverage Continuation(2)

 

  

 

 

 

 

22,104

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

14,736

 

 

 

 

 

Outplacement

 

  

 

 

 

 

50,000

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

  

 

 

 

 

$23,523,233

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

$6,552,099

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

$10,120,126

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

$11,369,268

 

 

 

 

(1)

Pursuant to the terms of Mr. Mussallem’schange-in-control severance agreement. Mr. Mussallem’s payments and benefits will be reduced to the extent necessary to ensure that he receives only the greater of (1) the amount of the payments which would not constitute a parachute payment, or (2) the amount which yields the executive the greatestafter-tax amount of benefits after taking into account any excise taxes imposed on the executive under Section 4999 of the Code. The value of Mr. Mussallem’s severance benefits presented in the table assumes that no such reduction in his benefits would be required.

(2)

Pursuant to the terms of Mr. Mussallem’s amended and restated employment agreement, and assuming that the termination of employment is not in connection with a change in control.

 
Qualifying Termination
in Connection with
 Change in Control(1)
Termination
Due to Retirement(2)
Termination
Due to Disability or Death(2)
Involuntary Termination
by the Company
Without Case(2)
Salary Severance$ 3,600,000$ __$ __$ 2,400,000
Bonus Severance5,400,000____3,163,540
Pro Rata Bonus – 20221,800,0001,800,0001,800,0001,800,000
Stock Option Acceleration56,855__56,855__
Restricted Stock Unit Acceleration4,547,013485,4314,547,013485,431
Performance-Based Stock Unit Acceleration5,955,7443,306,8815,955,7443,306,881
Medical and Dental Coverage Continuation41,534____27,689
Outplacement50,000______
 
Total$ 21,451,146$ 5,592,312$ 12,359,612$ 11,183,541
(1)    Represents benefits that would be provided pursuant to the terms of Mr. Mussallem’s change-in-control severance agreement. Mr. Mussallem’s payments and benefits will be reduced to the extent necessary to ensure that he receives only the greater of (1) the amount of the payments which would not constitute a parachute payment, and (2) the amount which yields the executive the greatest after-tax amount of benefits after taking into account any excise taxes imposed on the executive under Section 4999 of the Code. The value of Mr. Mussallem’s severance benefits presented in the table assumes that no such reduction in his benefits would be required.
(2)    Represents benefits that would be provided pursuant to the terms of Mr. Mussallem’s amended and restated employment agreement and taking into account that Mr. Mussallem is retirement-eligible.





Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 57



Executive Benefits and Payments upon Termination: Qualifying Termination in

Connection with a Change in Control(1)

    Mr. Ullem   Mr. Bobo   Ms. Szyman  Mr. Wood 

 

Salary Severance

 

  

 

$

 

 

1,147,364

 

 

 

 

  

 

$

 

 

1,154,774

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

$1,060,900

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

 

1,114,420

 

 

 

 

 

Bonus Severance

 

  

 

 

 

 

1,412,080

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

1,308,888

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

1,334,488

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,507,320

 

 

 

 

 

Pro Rata Bonus – 2017

 

  

 

 

 

 

427,450

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

432,600

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

396,550

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

416,725

 

 

 

 

 

Stock Option Acceleration

 

  

 

 

 

 

6,125,384

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

2,730,958

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

2,017,583

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2,741,732

 

 

 

 

 

Restricted Stock Unit Acceleration

 

  

 

 

 

 

4,132,625

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

1,158,095

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

2,808,733

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,260,661

 

 

 

 

 

Performance-Based Stock Unit Acceleration

 

  

 

 

 

 

1,465,230

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

1,448,324

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

1,372,245

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,411,694

 

 

 

 

 

Medical and Dental Coverage Continuation

 

  

 

 

 

 

109,556

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

30,844

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

109,556

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

109,556

 

 

 

 

 

Outplacement

 

  

 

 

 

 

50,000

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

50,000

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

50,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

50,000

 

 

 

 

 

Cutback

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

(1,351,814

 

 

)(2) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

  

 

$

 

 

14,869,689

 

 

 

 

  

 

$

 

 

8,314,483

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

$7,798,241

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

 

8,612,108

 

 

 

 

(1)

Under thechange-in-control severance agreements, payments and benefits will be reduced to the extent necessary to ensure that the executive receives only the greater of (1) the amount of the payments which would not constitute a parachute payment or (2) the amount which yields the executive the greatestafter-tax amount of benefits after taking into account any excise taxes imposed on the executive under Section 4999 of the Code. The value of each executive’s severance benefits presented on the table assumes that no such reduction in benefits would be required.

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  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND OTHER INFORMATION  

(2)

Ms. Szyman’s total payments considered “parachute payments” under Section 280G of the Code were, in this hypothetical termination scenario, estimated to have been greater than three times her “base amount” calculated under Section 280G of the Code. As described above, Ms. Szyman is subject to a best netafter-tax provision under herchange-in-control severance agreement under which such payments and benefits would be reduced to the extent necessary to assure that Ms. Szyman receives only the greater of (1) the amount of the payments which would not constitute a parachute payment, or (2) the amount which yields the greatest after tax benefit after taking into account any excise taxes imposed under Section 4999 of the Code. It is estimated that, in this scenario, Ms. Szyman’s benefits would have been reduced by $1,351,814 to avoid the application of Section 4999 of the Code.


 Mr. UllemMr. LemercierMr. WoodMr. Zovighian
Salary Severance$ 1,395,794$ 1,362,108$ 1,375,568$ 1,272,632
Bonus Severance1,146,0721,121,1191,150,0001,077,490
Pro Rata Bonus – 2022545,000560,560575,000510,000
Stock Option Acceleration283,2859,248254,175239,186
Restricted Stock Unit Acceleration1,206,8171,093,9691,017,028954,542
Performance-Based Stock Unit Acceleration1,518,3141,408,2641,354,1721,262,775
Medical and Dental Coverage Continuation (2)
132,9001,514,42434,30257,767
Outplacement50,00050,00050,00050,000
Total$6,278,182$7,119,692$5,810,245$5,424,392
(1)    Represents benefits that would be provided pursuant to the terms of our NEO’s change-in-control severance agreement. Under the change-in-control severance agreements, payments and benefits that would be subject to excise taxes imposed on the executive under Section 4999 of the Code may be reduced as described above. The value of each executive’s severance benefits presented on the table assumes that no such reduction in benefits would be required.
(2) The Medical Coverage Continuation amount includes medical, dental, vision and Employee Assistance Program (and other welfare benefit plans coverage based upon country of employment) for 36 months following the date of termination.
Executive Benefits and Payments upon Involuntary Termination:

Not in Connection with a Change in Control

    Mr. Ullem   Mr. Bobo   Ms. Szyman     Mr. Wood 

 

Cash Severance(1)

 

  

 

 

 

 

$161,587

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

$584,123

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

$128,192

 

 

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

$792,167

 

 

 

 

(1)

Pursuant to the terms of the Severance Plan, and assuming that the termination of employment is not in connection with a change in control of the Company. Ms. Szyman’s obligation to repay any relocation benefit terminated on January 5, 2017.

     
 Mr. UllemMr. LemercierMr. WoodMr. Zovighian
Cash Severance$336,154
$1,180,458(1)
$1,115,356$281,040
(1)    Mr. Lemercier’s cash severance is reported in this table by converting Swiss Francs to United States dollars using an exchange ratio of 1.0504 (which is our average monthly intercompany Swiss Franc to United States dollar exchange rate for the year), and assumes that he was entitled to pay in lieu of six months advance notice of termination.
Death and Disability Benefits for Mr. Lemercier.    As a member of our European Management Team, Mr. Lemercier is entitled to receive risks related benefits as part of his pension plan rules. As Mr. Lemercier has now reached the normal retirement age of 65, he is not eligible to receive disability nor death benefits as an active plan participant. In exchange he would receive his regular retirement pension in case of disability occurs and a spouse pension in the event of his death (60% of his retirement pension).
CEO Pay Ratio

Pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, we are required to disclose in this Proxy Statement the ratio of the total annual compensation of our CEO to the median of the total annual compensation of all of our employees (excluding our CEO). Based on SEC rules for this disclosure and applying the methodology described below, we have determined that our CEO’s total compensation for 20172022 was $10,798,318,$13,992,145, and the median of the total 20172022 compensation of all of our employees (excluding our CEO) was $50,195.$50,997. Accordingly, we estimate the ratio of our CEO’s total compensation for 20172022 to the median of the total 20172022 compensation of all of our employees (excluding our CEO) to be 215274 to 1.

We identified the median employee by taking into account the total cash compensation paid(the “2020 median employee”) for 2017 for all individuals, excluding our CEO, who were employed by us or one of our affiliates on October 31, 2017, the last daypurposes of the first monthCEO pay ratio disclosure included in the Proxy Statement for our 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “2020 Pay Ratio Disclosure”), and there has been no change in our fourth fiscal quarter. We included all employees, whether employed on a full-time, part-time,employee population or seasonal basis. We did not make any assumptions, adjustments or estimates with respect to their total cashemployee compensation for 2017, and we did not annualizearrangements since the compensation for any employees who were not employed by us for all of 2017. We believe total cash compensation for all employees is an appropriate measure because we do not distribute annual equity awards to all employees.

Once the2020 median employee was identified as described above, that employee’swe believe would significantly impact our pay ratio disclosure.

The total 2022 annual compensation for 2017the median employee was determined using the same rules that apply to reporting the compensation of our NEOs (including our CEO) in the “Total” column of the Summary Compensation Table. The total compensation amounts included in the first paragraph of thispay-ratio disclosure were determined based on that methodology. The SEC’s pay ratio disclosure rules permit the use of estimates, assumptions, and adjustments, and the SEC has acknowledged that pay ratio disclosures may involve a degree of imprecision. We believe that the foregoing pay ratio is a reasonable estimate calculated in a manner consistent with the SEC’s pay ratio disclosure rules.

The SEC rules for identifying the median compensated employee and calculating the pay ratio based on that employee’s total annual total compensation allow companies to adopt a variety of methodologies, to apply certain exclusions, and to make reasonable estimates and assumptions. As such, the pay ratio reported by other companies may not be comparable to the pay ratio reported above, as other companies may have different employment and compensation practices and may utilize different methodologies, exclusions, estimates and assumptions in calculating their own pay ratios.

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Edwards Lifesciences Corporation |    2018I2023 Proxy Statement

58



Pay Versus Performance

The following table sets forth additional compensation regarding the relationship between our CEO’s and our other NEOs’ compensation and our financial performance for the years shown in the table (in this discussion, our NEOs other than our CEO are referred to as our “Non-CEO NEOs”). The calculations and analysis below do not necessarily reflect our Company’s approach to aligning compensation with performance. For information concerning the Company’s compensation philosophy and how our Company’s executive compensation program is designed to align compensation with performance, refer to the Compensation Discussion Analysis section of this Proxy Statement.

Value of Initial Fixed $100
Investment Based On4:
Year1
Summary Compensation Table Total for CEO2
Compensation Actually Paid to CEO3
Average Summary Compensation Table Total for Non-CEO NEOs2
Average Compensation Actually Paid to Non-CEO NEOs3
Total Shareholder ReturnPeer Group Total Shareholder Return
Net Income
(millions)5
Underlying Revenue Growth6
2022$13,992,145 $(10,537,711)$4,167,440 $(2,605,075)$95.94 $113.92 $1,521.9 7.7 %
202113,613,305 31,516,279 3,501,702 8,147,117 166.60 140.40 1,503.1 17.8 %
202010,050,933 15,035,705 3,403,465 4,444,991 117.32 117.63 823.4 0.6 %
(1)    Mr. Mussallem was our CEO for each of the three years included in the table. For each year included in the table, our executive officers included in the Non-CEO NEO group for that year are listed below:

Year
Non-CEO NEOs
2022Scott Ullem, Jean-Luc Lemercier, Larry Wood, Bernard Zovighian
2021Scott Ullem, Donald Bobo Jr, Jean-Luc Lemercier, Larry Wood
2020Scott Ullem, Donald Bobo Jr, Jean-Luc Lemercier, Larry Wood

(2)    See the Summary Compensation Table above for detail on the Summary Compensation Table total compensation for our CEO for each year covered in the table. The average compensation for the Non-CEO NEOs for 2022 was calculated from the Summary Compensation Table above. The average compensation for the Non-CEO NEOs for each of 2021 and 2020 was calculated from the Summary Compensation Table as disclosed in our Proxy Statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission in 2022 or 2021, respectively.
(3)    Fair value or change in fair value, as applicable, of equity awards in the "Compensation Actually Paid" columns was determined by reference to (1) for RSU awards (excluding Total Shareholder Return “TSR” awards and other performance-based awards), closing price on applicable year-end date(s) or, in the case of vesting dates, the actual vesting date price, (2) for TSR-based awards, the fair value calculated by a Monte Carlo simulation model as of the applicable year-end date(s), and (3) for stock options, a Black Scholes value as of the applicable year-end or vesting date(s), determined based on the same methodology as used to determine grant date fair value but using the closing stock price on the applicable revaluation date as the current market price and with an expected life set equal to the remaining life of the award in the case of underwater stock options and, in the case of in the money options, an expected life equal to the original ratio of expected life relative to the seven year contractual life multiplied times the remaining life as of the applicable revaluation date, and in all cases based on volatility and risk free rates determined as of the revaluation date based on the expected life period and based on an expected dividend rate of 0%.

For purposes of this table, the compensation actually paid (also referred to as “CAP”) to each of our NEOs (including, for purposes of this table, former named executive officers who are included in the Non-CEO NEO group for the applicable year) means the NEO’s total compensation as reflected in the Summary Compensation Table for the applicable year and adjusted for the following with respect to each NEO:

Less the amounts reported in the “Stock Awards” and “Option Awards” columns of the Summary Compensation Table for the applicable year,
Less the NEO’s aggregate change in the actuarial present value of the accumulated benefit under pension plans included in the “Change in Pension Value and Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Earnings” column of the Summary Compensation Table for the applicable year,
Plus the pension service cost for the NEO for the applicable year,
Plus the year-end value of Edwards option and stock awards granted in the covered year which were outstanding and unvested at the end of the covered year,
Plus/(less) the change in value as of the end of the covered year as compared to the value at the end of the prior year for Edwards option and stock awards which were granted in prior years and were outstanding and unvested at the end of the covered year,
Plus the vesting date value of Edwards option and stock awards which were granted and vested during the same covered year,
Plus/(less) the change in value as of the vesting date as compared to the value at the end of the prior year for Edwards option and stock awards which were granted in prior years and vested in the covered year,
Less, as to any Edwards option and stock awards which were granted in prior years and were forfeited during the covered year, the value of such awards as of the end of the prior year,
Plus the dollar value of any dividends or other earnings paid during the covered year on outstanding and unvested Edwards option and stock awards (no dividends were paid on unvested awards during the applicable years; the crediting of dividend equivalents on stock awards is taken into account in determining the applicable vesting or year-end date of the award),
Plus, as to an Edwards option or stock award that was materially modified during the covered year, the amount by which the value of the award as of the date of the modification exceeds the value of the original award on the modification date (none of the Edwards option or stock awards held by the NEOs were materially modified during the years covered by the table).

In making each of these adjustments, the “value” of an option or stock award is the fair value of the award on the applicable date determined in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718 using the valuation assumptions we then used to calculate the fair value of our equity awards. For more information on the valuation of our equity awards, please see the notes to our financial statements that appear in our Annual Report on Form 10 K each year and the footnotes to the Summary Compensation Table that appears in our annual Proxy Statement.

The table above reflects the CAP (determined as noted above) for our CEO and, for our Non-CEO NEOs, the average of the CAPs determined for the Non-CEO NEOs for each of the years shown in the table. Compensation Actually Paid to Mr. Mussallem reflects the following adjustments from Total compensation reported in the Summary Compensation Table.

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 59



Compensation Actually Paid to Mr. Mussallem reflects the following adjustments from Total compensation reported in the Summary Compensation Table:
202220212020
Total Reported in 2022 Summary Compensation Table (SCT)$13,992,145 $13,613,305 $10,050,933 
Less, value of Stock Awards reported in SCT(11,769,153)(10,731,293)(7,964,289)
Less, change in Pension Value reported in SCT— — — 
Plus, Annual Service Cost (Pension)— — — 
Plus, Year-End value of Awards Granted in Fiscal Year that are Unvested and Outstanding5,096,973 16,872,757 9,943,132 
Plus, Change in Fair Value of Prior Year awards that are Outstanding and Unvested(4,858,706)1,252,507 (671,244)
Plus, FMV of Awards Granted this Year and that Vested this Year826,186 1,466,945 931,746 
Plus, Change in Fair Value (from prior year-end) of Prior Year awards that Vested this year(13,825,155)9,042,058 2,745,426 
Less Prior Year Fair Value of Prior Year awards that Failed to vest this year— — — 
Total Adjustments$(24,529,856)$17,902,974 $4,984,772 
Actual Compensation Paid for Fiscal Year 2022$(10,537,711)$31,516,279 $15,035,705 
The average Compensation Actually Paid to the non-CEO NEOs reflects the following adjustments from Total compensation reported in the Summary Compensation Table for the applicable year:
202220212020
Total Reported in 2022 Summary Compensation Table (SCT)$4,167,440 $3,501,702 $3,403,465 
Less, value of Stock Awards reported in SCT(3,051,860)(2,065,155)(1,879,854)
Less, change in Pension Value reported in SCT— (108,381)(481,327)
Plus, Annual Service Cost (Pension)73,920 284,557 211,352 
Plus, Year-End value of Awards Granted in Fiscal Year that are Unvested and Outstanding1,186,590 3,325,850 2,502,007 
Plus, Change in Fair Value of Prior Year awards that are Outstanding and Unvested(1,392,945)97,694 (302,943)
Plus, FMV of Awards Granted this Year and that Vested this Year370,095 195,064 91,597 
Plus, Change in Fair Value (from prior year-end) of Prior Year awards that Vested this year(3,958,314)2,915,787 900,694 
Less Prior Year Fair Value of Prior Year awards that Failed to vest this year— — — 
Total Adjustments$(6,772,514)$4,645,415 $1,041,526 
Actual Compensation Paid for Fiscal Year 2022$(2,605,075)$8,147,117 $4,444,991 
(4)    Edwards Total Shareholder Return represents cumulative total shareholder return on a fixed investment of $100 in our common stock for the period beginning on the last trading day of 2019 through the end of the applicable year, and is calculated assuming the reinvestment of dividends. Peer Group Total Shareholder Return represents cumulative total shareholder return on a fixed investment of $100 in the S&P Health Care Equipment Index for the period beginning on the last trading day of 2019 through the end of the applicable year and is calculated assuming the reinvestment of dividends.

The following chart illustrates the CAP for our CEO and the average CAP for our Non-CEO NEOs for each of the last three years against our Company’s total shareholder return and the total shareholder return for the S&P 500 Health Care Equipment Index (each calculated as described above) over that period of time.

ew-20230327_g52.jpg

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 60


(5)    This column shows our net income for each year covered by the table. The following chart illustrates the CAP for our CEO and the average CAP for our Non-CEO NEOs for each of the last three years against our net income for each of those years. While no portion of NEO compensation is directly dependent upon our net income, SEC rules require that net income be presented as a performance measure in this table.

ew-20230327_g53.jpg

(6)    This column shows our underlying revenue growth for each year covered by the table. We consider underlying revenue growth to be a key metric in our executive compensation program as underlying revenue growth is used in determining payouts under our Annual Incentive Plan. See the Compensation Discussion and Analysis section of this Proxy Statement for more information regarding the use of this performance measure in our executive compensation program. The following chart illustrates the CAP for our CEO and the average CAP for our Non-CEO NEOs for each of the last three years against our underlying revenue growth for each of those years.
ew-20230327_g54.jpg
Following is an unranked list of the financial performance measures we consider most important in linking the compensation actually paid to our NEOs for 2022 with our performance.

Relative TSR (used in our PBRSUs)
Underlying Revenue Growth (used in our Incentive Plan)
Adjusted Earnings Per Share (used in our Incentive Plan)
Adjusted Free Cash Flow (used in our Incentive Plan)
KOD Measurement

See the Compensation Discussion and Analysis section of this Proxy Statement for more information regarding the use of these performance measures in our executive compensation program.


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 61


In addition to the financial performance measures listed above, we view our stock price, upon which the value of all of our equity awards is dependent, as a key performance-based component of our executive compensation program in order to further align the interests of our senior management with the interests of our stockholders.



































































Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 62


PROPOSAL 2 – ADVISORY VOTE TO APPROVE NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICER COMPENSATION

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THE BOARD RECOMMENDS A VOTE “FOR” THE APPROVAL OF THE COMPENSATION OF OUR NEOS.
In accordance with Section 14A of the Exchange Act and the related rules of the SEC, we are providing our stockholders with the opportunity to vote, on an advisory,non-binding basis, on the executive compensation of our NEOs as disclosed in this Proxy Statement (including in the compensation tables and narratives accompanying those tables as well as in the “Compensation Discussion and Analysis”).

As described more fully in the “Compensation Discussion and Analysis,” our executive compensation programs are designed to attract, retain, motivate, and engage executives with superior leadership and management capabilities.High-caliber talent is critical to our success and we strive to provide compensation that is competitive. Our strong pay-for-performance culture is reflected below:

A significant portion of executive compensation is performance based;

Our performance goals consist of a mix ofcompany-wide Company-wide financial, operating, and strategic measures as well as personal objectives designed to further theour Company’s annual andlong-term business performance; and

We strive to align the interests of our executives with the interests of our stockholders, with a significant portion of executive compensation being in the form of equity awards with a value dependent upon our stock price.

We urge stockholders to read the “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” beginning on page 25,28, which describes in more detail how our executive compensation policies and procedures are designed and operate to achieve our compensation and strategic objectives, as well as the “Summary Compensation Table” and other related compensation tables and narrative appearing on pages 4246 through 54. The63. Our Compensation and Governance Committee and theour Board believe that the policies, procedures, and compensation programs described in these sections have contributed to theour Company’slong-term performance.

In the advisory vote at our 20172022 annual meeting, approximately 95%90% of the votes cast by our stockholders supported our executive compensation policies and procedures.

Even though we have regularly received strong support for our executive pay practices, theour Compensation and Governance Committee continues to engage in periodic reviews of our executive compensation and benefits programs and makes changes as appropriate to reflect our compensation philosophy and objectives, and to take into account stockholder feedback.


In 2017,January 2023, our Board of Directors approved the 2022 KOD achievement at 113% of target. Our financial and operating performances were strong. We achieved significant growth and exceededperformance resulted in financial achievement at 61% of target. Accordingly, our financial goals, includingnon-GAAP revenue, net income and free cash flow, the three measures of achievement under our annual cash incentive plan. Reflecting our performance for the year, prior to taking into account individual performance, our annual incentive plan for corporate employees funded at 175%69% of target. After takingFinal incentive amounts for our NEOs for 2022 also took into account each employee’s individual performance, payoutsperformance. See “Elements of Compensation—Annual Cash Incentive Payment” in the “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” above for additional information regarding the NEOs ranged from 186% to 187% of their Incentive Pay Objectives.

annual cash incentive payment.

Another indicator of our pay-for-performance culture is the relationship of theour NEOs’ target total direct compensation to TSR. Over the past five years, on average, 88%90% of theour CEO’s target total direct compensation is performance-based, and 73%76% is tied to the performance of Edwards’ stock. Our stock price has increased 150%99% over the past five years, 77%25% over the past three years, and 20%declined 42% over the past year.

We are asking our stockholders to indicate their support for our NEO compensation programs as described in thethis Proxy Statement. This proposal, commonly known as a“say-on-pay” “say-on-pay” proposal, gives our stockholders the opportunity to express their views on our NEOs’ compensation. This vote is not intended to address any specific item of compensation, but rather the overall compensation of our NEOs and the philosophy, policies and practices described in thethis Proxy Statement.

Accordingly, we ask our stockholders to vote “FOR”FOR the following resolution at the Annual Meeting:

“RESOLVED, that the Company’s stockholders approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation of the NEOs, as disclosed in the Company’s Proxy Statement for the 20182023 Annual Meeting of Stockholders pursuant to the compensation disclosure rules of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Compensation Discussion and Analysis, the Summary Compensation Table and the other related tables and disclosure included in the Proxy Statement.”

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  PROPOSAL 2 – ADVISORY VOTE TO APPROVE NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICER COMPENSATION  

Thesay-on-pay vote is advisory, and therefore not binding on theour Company, theour Compensation and Governance Committee or theour Board, and it will not be construed as overriding a decision by theour Company, theour Compensation and


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 63


Governance Committee or theour Board, or creating or implying any additional fiduciary duty. However, theour Board and our Compensation and Governance Committee value the opinions of our stockholders and will consider the voting results when making future decisions regarding executive compensation. Our current policy is to provide our stockholders with an opportunity to approve the compensation of theour NEOs each year at the annual meeting. It is expected that the next such vote will occur at the 20192024 annual meeting.

THE BOARD RECOMMENDS A VOTE“FOR” THE APPROVAL OF THE COMPENSATION OF OUR NEOS, AS DESCRIBED IN THE PROXY STATEMENT.

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THE BOARD RECOMMENDS A VOTE “FOR” THE APPROVAL OF THE COMPENSATION OF OUR NEOS.

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Edwards Lifesciences Corporation |    2018I2023 Proxy Statement

64




PROPOSAL 3 – ADVISORY VOTE TO APPROVE FREQUENCY OF FUTURE ADVISORY VOTES ON NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICER COMPENSATION

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THE BOARD RECOMMENDS THAT STOCKHOLDERS VOTE TO HOLD FUTURE ADVISORY VOTES ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION EVERY “ONE YEAR”.


As described in Proposal 2 above, our stockholders are being provided the opportunity to cast an advisory vote on our NEO compensation (referred to as a say-on-pay vote).

In 2017, our stockholders had the opportunity to cast an advisory vote on how often we should include a say-on-pay vote in the Proxy Materials for our annual meetings of stockholders or special stockholder meetings for which we must include executive compensation information in the proxy statement for that meeting (referred to as a “say-on-pay frequency vote”). At our 2017 annual meeting, stockholders voted to have the say-on-pay vote every year. Our Board accepted the stockholders’ preference and implemented annual say-on-pay advisory votes.

Under SEC rules, we are required to hold a new say-on-pay frequency vote at least every six years. Accordingly, this Proposal 3 affords our stockholders the opportunity to cast an advisory vote on how often we should include a say-on-pay vote in the proxy materials for future annual or special stockholders meetings, as applicable. Under this Proposal 3, our stockholders may vote to have future advisory votes on executive compensation every year, every two years, every three years, or abstain from voting.

We believe that advisory votes on executive compensation should be conducted every year so that our stockholders may annually express their views on our executive compensation program. Over the past six years, stockholders have come to expect, and are accustomed to having, the opportunity to review and vote on executive compensation every year. Also, if investors do have concerns about our Company's executive compensation program, it can be a benefit to allow them to express those concerns through the annual say-on-pay vote.

Like the say-on-pay vote, this say-on-pay frequency vote is advisory and will not be binding on our Company, our Compensation and Governance Committee or our Board. However, our Board and our Compensation and Governance Committee value the opinions expressed by our stockholders and will take the outcome of this vote into account when determining the frequency of future say-on-pay votes.

It is expected that the next vote on a say-on-pay frequency proposal will occur at the 2029 annual meeting of stockholders.
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THE BOARD RECOMMENDS THAT STOCKHOLDERS VOTE TO HOLD FUTURE ADVISORY VOTES ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION EVERY “ONE YEAR”.


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 65



EQUITY COMPENSATION PLAN INFORMATION

The following table sets forth, for each of our fourfive equity compensation plans, which include theLong-Term Stock Program, the Nonemployee Directors Program, the 2020 Nonemployee Directors Stock Incentive Program, the 2001 Employee Stock Purchase Plan for United States Employees (the “U.S. ESPP”) and the 2001 Employee Stock Purchase Plan for International Employees (the “International ESPP”), the number of shares of our common stock subject to outstanding awards, the weighted averageweighted-average exercise price of outstanding options, and the number of shares remaining available for future award grants as of December 31, 2017.2022. These plans have each been approved by our stockholders.

  Plan Category

Number of

Securities to be

Issued Upon

Exercise of

Outstanding Options,

Warrants and Rights(#)

Weighted Average

Exercise Price of

Outstanding Options,

Warrants and  Rights($)(1)

Number of

Securities

Remaining Available

for Future Issuance

Under Equity

Compensation  Plans(#)(2)

Equity Compensation Plans Approved by Stockholders

9,887,665

(3)

$59.85            

11,232,272

(4)

Equity Compensation Plans Not Approved by Stockholders

—            

(1)

The weighted average exercise price is calculated without taking into account 1,159,471 shares of common stock subject to outstanding RSUs that will become issuable as those units vest, without any cash consideration or other payment required for such shares.

(2)

The amounts indicated in this column exclude securities listed in the column titled “Number of Securities to be Issued Upon Exercise of Outstanding Options, Warrants and Rights.”

(3)

This amount includes 969,037 shares of common stock subject to RSU awards that will entitle the holder to one share of our common stock for each such unit that vests over the holder’s period of continued service, 161,900 shares subject to PBRSUs granted to executives (at the targeted level of performance; actual payout could range from 0% to 175% of the targeted level based on relative total stockholder return), 26,770 PBRSUs granted tonon-executive employees (at targeted level of performance; actual payout could be either 0% or 100% of the targeted level based on performance against applicable goals), and 1,764 restricted shares granted to nonemployee directors.

(4)

As of December 31, 2017, the following number of shares of common stock remain available for future issuance under equity compensation programs approved by our stockholders:(a) Long-Term Stock Program — 10,437,546; (b) Nonemployee Directors Program – 794,726; (c) U.S. ESPP – 1,829,210 and (d) the International ESPP – 564,935.

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Plan CategoryNumber of Securities
to be Issued Upon
Exercise of
Outstanding Options,
Warrants and Rights(#)
  Weighted-Average
  Exercise Price of
  Outstanding Options,
  Warrants and Rights($)
(1)
Number of Securities
Remaining Available
for Future Issuance
Under Equity
Compensation Plans(#)
(2) 
    
Equity Compensation Plans Approved by Stockholders
13,533,912 (3)
  $    63.66
 27,129,636 (4)
    
Equity Compensation Plans Not Approved by Stockholders  —
    
Total 13,533,912 27,129,636
(1)The weighted-average exercise price is calculated without taking into account 1,962,316 shares of common stock subject to outstanding RSUs and PBRSUs (with PBRSUs taken into account at the targeted level of performance) that will become issuable as those units vest, without any cash consideration or other payment required for such shares.
(2)Excludes securities reflected in column 1 of the table (Number of Securities to be Issued Upon Exercise of Outstanding Options, Warrants and Rights).
(3)    This amount includes (a) 11,571,596 shares of common stock subject to outstanding stock options, (b) 1,707,729 shares of common stock subject to RSU awards, and (c) 254,587 shares subject to PBRSU awards (determined at the targeted level of performance; actual payout could range from 0% to 175% of the targeted level based on relative total stockholder return over the performance period). This amount does not include 1,474 restricted stock awards (RSA) granted to nonemployee directors that were outstanding and unvested as of December 31, 2022; these RSAs are grants in lieu of cash retainers under the non-employee director “Deferral Election Program."
(4)    As of December 31, 2022, the following number of shares of common stock remain available for future issuance under equity compensation programs approved by our stockholders: (a) Long-Term Stock Program — 18,785,343; (b) 2020 Nonemployee Directors Stock Incentive Program – 2,225,350 (no new awards may be granted under the predecessor plan, the Nonemployee Directors Program); (c) U.S. ESPP – 4,675,100; and (d) the International ESPP – 1,443,843. The shares available under the Long-Term Stock Program may be used for any type of award authorized under the Long-Term Stock Program, including stock options, restricted stock, RSUs and PBRSUs. The shares available under the 2020 Nonemployee Directors Stock Incentive Program may be used for any type of award authorized under the 2020 Nonemployee Directors Stock Incentive Program, including stock options, stock issuances, restricted stock, RSUs and stock appreciation rights.

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation |    2018I2023 Proxy Statement57

66




AUDIT MATTERS

PROPOSAL 34 – RATIFICATION OF APPOINTMENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

The

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THE BOARD RECOMMENDS A VOTE “FOR” THE RATIFICATION OF THE INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM.
Our Audit Committee has appointed PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (“PwC”) as our independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2018.2023. Representatives of PwC are expected to attend the Annual Meeting and will be available to respond to appropriate questions and to make a statement if they so desire. In addition to the annual audit services, PwC performs certainnon-audit services for us. Although we are not required to seek stockholder approval of the appointment of PwC, theour Board believes that it is consistent with good corporate governance practices to ask stockholders to ratify the appointment. If the appointment is not ratified, theour Audit Committee will explore the reasons for stockholder rejection and will reconsider the appointment. In addition, even if stockholders ratify theour Audit Committee’s appointment of PwC, theour Audit Committee, in its discretion, may still appoint a different independent registered public accounting firm if it believes that such a change would be in the best interests of theour Company and our stockholders.

PwC has been our independent registered public accounting firm since 1999, serving in that capacity and reporting on our consolidated financial statements and the effectiveness of our internal controls over financial reporting continuously throughsince that time, including for the 20172022 fiscal year.

In considering whether to reappoint PwC, theour Audit Committee evaluated PwC’s performance and considered factors, including, but not limited to, the following factors:

following:

PwC’s qualifications and global capabilities;

capabilities, including its experience in the medical technology industry;

the results of theour Company’s annual assessment of PwC’s performance;

PwC’s and the audit engagement team’s independence, including whether the provision of non-audit services provided by PwC, individually and in aggregate, to our Company during 2022 was compatible with their independence;

the quality, timeliness, and candor of PwC’s communications with theour Audit Committee and management;

the appropriateness of PwC’s fees;

PwC’s tenure as our independent registered public accounting firm;

the controls and processes in place that help ensure PwC’s continued independence;

    any Public Company Accounting Oversight Board’s firm inspection reports; and

whether    the provisionpotential impact of non-audit services provided by PwC to the Company during 2017 was compatible with their independence.

appointing a new independent registered public accounting firm.

The

Our Audit Committee maintains oversight over PwC by holding regular private sessions with PwC, performing annual evaluations, and being directly involved in the selection of new lead audit partners pursuant to SEC rules requiring that a new lead audit partner be designated in the normal course every five years to bring a fresh perspective to the audit engagement. A new partner was so designated in advance of the 20152020 audit.

THE BOARD RECOMMENDS A VOTE“FOR” THE RATIFICATION OF THE INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM.

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THE BOARD RECOMMENDS A VOTE “FOR” THE RATIFICATION OF THE INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM.


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 67


Fees Paid to Principal Accountants.    During 20172022 and 2016,2021, PwC was retained to provide services in the following categories and amounts:

    2017   2016 
    (in millions) 

 

Audit Fees

 

  

 

$

 

 

2.8

 

 

 

 

  

 

$

 

 

2.7

 

 

 

 

 

Audit-Related Fees

 

  

 

 

 

 

0.3

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

0.3

 

 

 

 

 

Tax Fees

 

  

 

 

 

 

1.5

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

2.1

 

 

 

 

 

All Other Fees

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

amounts (in millions):

 20222021
Audit Fees$4.0$3.8
Audit-Related Fees0.20.1
Tax Fees2.01.8
All Other Fees(1)(1)
(1)    In both 2022 and 2021, there were $15,000 in “All Other Fees”.
Audit Fees.   Amounts paid under “Audit Fees” include aggregate fees for the audit of our consolidated financial statements and the effectiveness of internal controls over financial reporting, the three quarterly reviews of theour Company’s reports onForm 10-Q and other SEC filings, and services in connection with statutory and regulatory filings.

Audit-Related Fees.   Amounts paid under“Audit-Related “Audit-Related Fees” were for miscellaneous audit and consulting services.

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  AUDIT MATTERS  

Tax Fees.   Amounts paid under “Tax Fees” in 20172022 were for tax compliance ($0.8)1.1 million) and other tax services ($0.7)0.9 million), and in 20162021 were for tax compliance ($1.3)1.2 million) and other tax services ($0.8)0.6 million).


All Other Fees.   There were immaterial fees paid under$15,000 in “All Other Fees” in 2017both 2022 and 2016.

2021, which related to license fees.

Pre-Approval of Services.    The    Our Audit Committee is required topre-approve the audit andnon-audit services performed by our independent registered public accounting firm in order to assure that the provision of such services does not impair the auditor’s independence. Any proposed services exceedingpre-approved cost levels require specificpre-approval by theour Audit Committee.

The

Our Audit Committee at least annually reviews and provides generalpre-approval for the services that may be provided by the independent registered public accounting firm; the term of the generalpre-approval is 12 months from the date of approval, unless theour Audit Committee specifically provides for a different period. If theour Audit Committee has not provided generalpre-approval, then the type of service requires specificpre-approval by theour Audit Committee.

The

Our Audit Committee does not delegate to management its responsibilities topre-approve services performed by the independent registered public accounting firm, but may delegatepre-approval authority to one or more of its members. The member or members to whom such authority is delegated must report anypre-approval decisions to theour Audit Committee at its next scheduled meeting. The annual audit services, engagement terms, and fees are subject to the specificpre-approval of theour Audit Committee. One hundred percent (100%) of audit andnon-audit services performed by PwC in 20172022 and 20162021 were approved by theour Audit Committee.























Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 68


AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT

The Audit Committee comprises the threefour directors named below, each of whom meets the enhanced independence standards for Audit Committee members as set forth in applicable rules of the NYSE and the SEC. The Board has designated each member of the Audit Committee as an “audit committee financial expert” under applicable rules of SEC. Additional information regarding the Audit Committee, its responsibilities and meetings are described above in the section entitled “Board of Directors Matters – Matters—Corporate Governance Policies and Practices – Practices—Committees of the Board.”

Management is responsible for our internal controls, financial reporting process and compliance with laws, regulations and ethical business practices. Our independent registered public accounting firm, PwC, is responsible for performing an independent audit of our annual consolidated financial statements and expressing an opinion on the conformity of those financial statements with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, as well as expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. The Audit Committee’s responsibility is to monitor and oversee these processes.

In fulfilling its oversight responsibilities, the Audit Committee has reviewed and discussed with management the Company’s consolidated financial statements as of and for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017.2022. The Audit Committee has discussed with the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm the matters required to be discussed by Auditing Standard 1301, “Communications with Audit Committees.”the applicable requirements of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board and the SEC. The Audit Committee has received and reviewed the written disclosures and the letter from the independent registered public accounting firm under applicable requirements of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board regarding the independent accountant’s communications with the Audit Committee concerning independence, and has discussed with the independent registered public accounting firm its independence.

Based on the reviews and discussions referred to above, and relying thereon, the Audit Committee recommended to the Board that the financial statements referred to above be included in the Company’s 2022 Annual Report onForm 10-K for filing with the SEC.

The Audit Committee:

Leslie S. Heisz (Chair)

Kieran T. Gallahue

Wesley W. von Schack

Steven R. Loranger
Ramona Sequeira
This report shall not be deemed soliciting material or to be filed with the SEC, or incorporated by reference in any document so filed, whether made before or after the date hereof, except to the extent we specifically request that it be treated as soliciting material or it is specifically incorporated by reference therein.

LOGO     


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation |    2018I2023 Proxy Statement59

69




OTHER MATTERS AND BUSINESS


PROPOSAL 45 – APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT OF THE CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION TO PROVIDE FOR EXCULPATION OF OFFICERS
ew-20230327_g55.jpg
THE BOARD RECOMMENDS A VOTE “FOR” THE ADOPTION AND APPROVAL OF THE AMENDMENT OF THE CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION TO PROVIDE FOR EXCULPATION OF OFFICERS AS PERMITTED BY THE DELAWARE GENERAL CORPORATION LAW

Description of the Proposed Amendment

Article Ninth of our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (the “Certificate of Incorporation”) currently provides for our Company to limit the monetary liability of directors in certain circumstances pursuant to and consistent with Section 102(b)(7) of the Delaware General Corporation Law (“DGCL”).

Effective August 1, 2022, Section 102(b)(7) of the DGCL was amended to permit a corporation’s certificate of incorporation to include a provision eliminating or limiting monetary liability for certain senior corporate officers for breach of the duty of care, subject to certain exceptions.

Our Board has determined that it is advisable and in the best interests of our Company to approve an amendment (the “Proposed Amendment”) to our Certificate of Incorporation to provide for exculpation of our officers as now permitted by the DGCL, and has directed that the Proposed Amendment be submitted for adoption and approval by the stockholders at the Annual Meeting.

The full text of the Proposed Amendment is set forth in Appendix B to this Proxy Statement.

Purposes and Effects of the Proposed Amendment

Our Board desires to amend our Company’s Certificate of Incorporation to maintain provisions consistent with the DGCL and believes that the Proposed Amendment, which would add officers to the exculpation provision in our Certificate of Incorporation and provide officers with similar protections to those currently afforded members of our Board, subject to the additional limitations of the DGCL, is necessary in order to continue to attract and retain experienced and qualified officers. Our Board and management prioritizes attracting and retaining top industry talent as a key driver of our long-term strategy and continued stockholder value creation.

Officers are required to make decisions on crucial matters, often in response to time-sensitive opportunities and challenges. Such decisions can create risk of investigations, claims, actions, suits or proceedings seeking to impose liability on the basis of hindsight, especially in the current litigious environment and regardless of merit. Limiting the economic impact of this type of litigation to our Company would empower officers to best exercise their business judgment in furtherance of stockholder interests. Further, our Board has determined that the proposed provision would not negatively impact stockholder rights.

As amended, effective August 1, 2022, Section 102(b)(7) of the DGCL provides that only certain officers may be entitled to exculpation; namely: (i) a corporation’s president, chief executive officer, chief operating officer, chief financial officer, chief legal officer, controller, treasurer or chief accounting officer; (ii) an individual identified in public filings as one of the most highly compensated officers of our Company; and (iii) an individual who, by written agreement with our Company, has consented to be identified as an officer for purposes of Delaware’s long-arm jurisdiction statute.

Similar to the existing exculpation provided members of our Board under o Company’s current Certificate of Incorporation, the Proposed Amendment would not limit the liability of officers for any breach of the duty of loyalty to the corporation or its stockholders, any acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of the law, or any transaction from which the officer derived an improper personal benefit. Furthermore, pursuant to Section 102(b)(7) of the DGCL, the Proposed Amendment would allow for the exculpation of the officers specified above only in connection with direct claims brought by stockholders, including class actions, but would not eliminate such officers’ monetary liability for breach of fiduciary duty claims brought by the corporation itself or for derivative claims brought by stockholders in the name of the corporation.

Other than the amendment of the existing Article Ninth by the Proposed Amendment, the remainder of the Certificate of Incorporation will remain unchanged. If the Proposed Amendment is approved by the stockholders, the Proposed Amendment will become effective upon filing of the Certificate of Amendment of Certificate of Incorporation with the Delaware Secretary of State, which our Company intends to file promptly following the Annual Meeting if the requisite votes are obtained.


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 70


The general description of the Proposed Amendment set forth above is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the Proposed Amendment as set forth in Appendix B to this Proxy Statement.
ew-20230327_g55.jpg
THE BOARD RECOMMENDS A VOTE “FOR” THE ADOPTION AND APPROVAL OF THE AMENDMENT OF THE CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION TO PROVIDE FOR EXCULPATION OF OFFICERS AS PERMITTED BY THE DELAWARE GENERAL CORPORATION LAW










































Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 71


PROPOSAL 6 – STOCKHOLDER PROPOSAL REGARDING ACTION BY WRITTEN CONSENT

A stockholder has submitted the proposal and supporting statement set forth below in accordance with the rules of the SEC, and the Board and the Company disclaim any responsibility for its content. We will furnish, orally or in writing as requested, the name, address and claimed share ownership of the stockholder that submitted this proposal promptly upon oral or written request to the Company’s Corporate Secretary.

Proposal 4 – Shareholder Right to Act by Written Consent

Shareholders request that our board of directors undertake such steps as may be necessary to permit written consent by shareholders entitled to cast the minimum number of votes that would be necessary to authorize the action at a meeting at which all shareholders entitled to vote thereon were present and voting. This written consent is to be consistent with applicable law and consistent with giving shareholders the fullest power to act by written consent consistent with applicable law. This includes shareholder ability to initiate any topic for written consent consistent with applicable law.

This proposal topic won majority shareholder support at 13 major companies in a single year. This included 67%-support at both Allstate and Sprint. Hundreds of major companies enable shareholder action by written consent. This proposal topic, sponsored by a Chevedden proponent, received more than 51%-support at our 2015 annual meeting.

This 51%-vote would have been still higher if small shareholders had the same access to corporate governance analytical information as large shareholders. Each shareholder proposal topic voted at our annual meetings since 2012 would have received a higher vote had our company printed the names of the proponent in the proxy. Shareholders appreciate knowing the specific proponent sponsoring each shareholder proposal and that a proponent is willing to link his name to the merits of the proposal.

Taking action by written consent in lieu of a meeting is a means shareholders can use to raise important matters outside the normal annual meeting cycle. A shareholder right to act by written consent and to call a special meeting are 2 complimentary ways to bring an important matter to the attention of both management and shareholders outside the annual meeting cycle. More than 100 Fortune 500 companies provide for shareholders to call special meetings and to act by written consent.

Please vote for a best practice in corporate governance:Shareholder Right to Act by Written Consent — Proposal 4

INDEPENDENT BOARD CHAIRMAN POLICY

THE BOARD RECOMMENDS A VOTE “AGAINST” THIS PROPOSAL REGARDING AN INDEPENDENT BOARD CHAIRMAN POLICY.
John Chevedden, 2215 Nelson Avenue, No. 205, Redondo Beach, California 90278, owner of 100 shares of our common stock, has informed the Company in writing that he intends to offer the following resolution for consideration at the Annual Meeting.
The Board and the Company disclaim any responsibility for its content. We will furnish, orally or in writing, as requested, the name, address and claimed share ownership of the stockholder that submitted this proposal promptly upon oral or written request to the Company’s Corporate Secretary.
Proposal 6 – Independent Board Chairman

Shareholders request that the Board of Directors adopt an enduring policy, and amend the governing documents as necessary in order that 2 separate people hold the office of the Chairman and the office of the CEO.

Whenever possible, the Chairman of the Board shall be an Independent Director.

The Board has the discretion to select a Temporary Chairman of the Board who is not an Independent Director to serve while the Board is seeking an Independent Chairman of the Board.

Although it is best practice to adopt this policy soon this policy could be phased in where there is a contract renewal for our current CEO or for the next CEO transition.

This proposal topic won 52% support at Boeing and 54% support at Baxter International in 2020. Boeing then adopted this proposal topic. The roles of Chairman and CEO are fundamentally different and should be held by 2 directors, a CEO and a Chairman who is completely independent of the CEO and our company.

A lead director is no substitute for an independent Board Chairman. According to the Edwards Lifesciences annual meeting proxy the EW Lead Directors has hardly any exclusive powers:
•    serves as the principal liaison, but not the only liaison, between the independent Board members and the Chairman.
•    okays, but does not initiate, Board meeting agendas.
•    okays, but does not initiate, Board meeting schedules to only to ensure there is sufficient time
•    is one of the coordinators of the activities of the independent directors
•    is one of the persons providing feedback to management from the Board’s executive sessions.
•    is one of the persons providing advice, counsel and support to the Chairman.
•    is one of the persons communicating with major stockholders, but only as appropriate.

When the Lead Director shares roles with others it means that the Lead Director may need to do little or nothing in those roles in a given year.    

Plus management fails to give shareholders enough information on this topic to make an informed decision. There is no comparison of the exclusive powers of the Office of the Chairman and the exclusive powers of the Lead Director.

The ascending complexities of a company with $50 Billion in market capitalization, like Edwards Lifesciences, increasingly demand that 2 persons fill the 2 most important jobs at EW on an enduring basis – Chairman and CEO

Please vote yes:
Independent Board Chairman – Proposal 6


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 72


The Board has carefully considered the above stockholder proposal and believes that it is unnecessary and not in the best interests of our stockholders. The Board recommends thatunanimously urges stockholders to vote“AGAINST” this proposal for the following reasons:

The above stockholder proposal would deprive all stockholders of


Our independent directors should have the rightflexibility to be consulted on key matters impacting their investment.

Our governing documents require that actions on which stockholders will be asked to vote be considered at a meeting of stockholders. This requirement assures that all stockholders receive advance notice ofdetermine the proposed action, have an opportunity to discuss it, and consider all points of view. In contrast, the proposal would allow critical actions to be approved without notice to other stockholders and without an opportunity for discussion at a stockholder meeting. This proposal, if adopted, could disenfranchise stockholders and may deprive them of these rights, while enabling other short-term or special interest investors with no fiduciary duties to stockholders to approve proposals that are notCompany’s leadership structure in the best interest of all stockholders. Because of these deficiencies, the Board believes that the written consent process is not appropriate for a widely held public company. This belief was affirmed by stockholders during our 2015- 2016 stockholder outreach on this topic which we discuss in more detail below.

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  OTHER MATTERS AND BUSINESS  

Our 2015–2016 stockholder outreach led by our Presiding Director included extensive conversations on this exact topic. As a direct result of this engagement, the Board expanded the right of stockholders to call special meetings, which our stockholders overwhelmingly indicated was superior to implementing a right for stockholders to act by written consent.

The above stockholder proposal was submitted by the same stockholder in 2014 and then again in 2015. Following the vote on this proposal in 2015 (the “2015 proposal”), which was approved by 50.8% of the votes cast (39% of the shares then outstanding), we, including Wes von Schack, the Board’s Presiding Director, engaged in substantial stockholder outreach in order to be able to inform the Board of our stockholders’ current views on this matter. The feedback provided by stockholders during these meetings was provided to the full Board for consideration.

2015 Outreach.    During 2015, our management contacted 26 of our largest stockholders representing approximately 54% of our outstanding shares to, among other things, seek their feedback on the 2015 proposal that was narrowly approved at the 2015 Annual Meeting. This outreach resulted in conversations with 13 stockholders representing approximately 43% of our outstanding shares. The engagement included extensive discussions of the positive and negative aspects of the special meeting versus the written consent rights, both generally and specifically as it relates to Edwards.

Overall, stockholders were pleased to be consulted and, among other things, voiced two consistent themes:

Our stockholders strongly favored the right to call a special meeting over the right to act by written consent. Many of these stockholders said they preferred the right to call a special meeting over the right to act by written consent because while both provide stockholders an avenue to be heard outside the annual meeting cycle, special meetings provide additional protections for all stockholders and avoid the logistical issues that some stockholders have experienced when presented with a consent solicitation.

Regardless of their views on the right to act by written consent, stockholders believed it was important that the Board be responsive to the vote on the 2015 proposal.

Based on this feedback, the Board evaluated various alternatives. After careful deliberation and consideration of Edwards’ specific circumstances, including its history of having a concentrated stockholder base, the Board determined that lowering the threshold for the special meeting right from 25% to 15% may be the most responsive and appropriate course of action. Before doing so, however, the Board wanted to understand how our stockholders would view that action and whether they would consider it superior to the adoption of a right to act by written consent.

2016 Outreach.    To obtain feedback specific to this proposed action, in early 2016, we contacted 20 stockholders representing approximately 51% of our outstanding shares, and spoke with 18 stockholders representing just over 50% of our shares, including many stockholders who had provided their views during our initial outreach. Mr. von Schack led conversations with five of our top six stockholders. The remaining calls were conducted by the management team that participated on the calls with Mr. von Schack, which included the CFO, the Corporate Secretary, and the Vice President of Investor Relations.

The results of these conversations were as follows:

All of these stockholders approved of the Board’s engagement process and efforts to incorporate stockholders’ perspectives into its decision-making process.

All but one of these stockholders said they considered the Board lowering the special meeting threshold in lieu of adopting a written consent right to be responsive to the vote on the 2015 proposal.

During our 2016 outreach, the one stockholder who said that it had voted for the 2015 proposal and would still prefer to have both special meeting and written consent rights indicated that it appreciated the Board’s thoughtful process to address the feedback received during the 2015 outreach conversations. This stockholder believed the Board was responsive to the vote on the 2015 proposal.

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  OTHER MATTERS AND BUSINESS  

In light of the feedback received duringcircumstances at the outreach, indicating that lowering the threshold required to call a special meeting is superior to the adoption of a right to act by written consenttime and also having considered the factors listed below, in February 2016, the Board amended our Bylaws to lower the threshold for the special meeting right from 25% to 15% of our outstanding shares, which remains the current threshold.

The existing right to call a special meeting is preferable and is set at an appropriate threshold.

Our existing stockholder right to call special meetings allows stockholders to propose actions without waiting for the Company’s next Annual Meeting. A special meeting set at an appropriate threshold is preferable to action by written consent because a meeting allows all stockholders to participate in, and discuss the merits of, a proposed action, and allows the Board to make a thoughtful recommendation about the action. As a result, a strong stockholder special meeting right is better suitedshould not be restricted to a culture of transparency and good corporate governance.

single rigid approach.

The Board continues to believe that having a special meeting right at 15% strikes the right balance for Edwards, as it is a low enough threshold to provide a meaningful right for stockholders to act between annual meetings yet high enough to prevent a single stockholder (or small group of stockholders) from acting without broad stockholder support. Edwards has a history of having significant concentration amongst its top stockholders. Over the past decade, Edwards has always had at least one stockholder with ownership above 8%, and approximately 75% of the time, Edwards has had at least one stockholder with ownership above 10%. Five different institutions have owned at least 10% of Edwards’ stock at some point during that same period.

In addition, at the present time, only 13% of S&P 500 companies maintain a special meeting right with a threshold at or below 15%, providing additional confidence to the Board that a special meeting right with a threshold of 15% is in line with Edwards’ strong corporate governance structures.

We have a strong corporate governanceCompany’s leadership structure and record of accountability.

Our current corporate governance structure reflects a significant and ongoing commitment to strong and effective governance practices and a willingness to be responsive and accountable to our stockholders. We regularly assess and refine our corporate governance policies and procedures to take into account evolving best practices and to address feedback provided by our stockholders during our regular engagement with them. The Board firmly believes that the company’s strong corporate governance practices, areboth as recently constructed and from a key enabler of the exceptionalhistorical perspective, provide strong independent oversight and sustainable value that Edwards has created for stockholders.

In addition to adopting a special meeting right in 2014, and expanding that right in 2016, we have implemented numerous other corporate governance measures to ensure the Board remains accountable to stockholders, provides our stockholders with a meaningful voice in the nomination and election of directors, ensures the ability to communicate with directors, and promotes the consideration of stockholder views. For example:

Annual Election of Directors– In 2013,been expanded in response to anon-bindingstockholder proposal approved at the 2012 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, the Board recommended and stockholders approved amendments to our Certificate of Incorporation to eliminate the classified board and phase in the annual election of directors. Beginning with the 2016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, all of our directors stand forre-election at each annual meeting.

feedback.

Majority Voting in Director Elections – Directors must be elected by a majority vote in an uncontested election, and a director who fails to receive the required number of votes forre-election must tender his or her written resignation for consideration by the Board.

Substantial Majority of the Board is IndependentThe Board is composed entirely of independent directors, other than the Chief Executive Officer.

Independent Presiding Director – We have an independent Presiding Director with defined and significant responsibilities. Our Presiding Director provides strongBoard’s independent leadership of our Board by, among other things, presiding at executive sessions in connection with every Board meeting.

Board Refreshment – The Board has added five new directors over the past four years. These additions are the result ofstructure is evaluated on a thoughtful process that has involved the participation of all directors and occasionally an executive search firm to assist in evaluating candidates. This process is designedregular basis to ensure that our Board benefits from fresh perspectives, diversitythe approach continues to provide effective independent oversight of thoughtthe Company and a collective skill set that is aligned withserves the needsbest interests of our business. The average tenure of ourstockholders.


Our independent directors is six years.

should have the flexibility to determine the Company’s leadership structure in light of the circumstances at the time and not be restricted to a single rigid approach.

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  OTHER MATTERS AND BUSINESS  

Proxy Access – In 2016,Under our Corporate Governance Guidelines, the Board amended our Bylaws to implement proxy access. Under our Bylaws, a stockholder or a group of up to 30 stockholders owning at least 3% of our outstanding common stock continuously for at least three years may nominatechange its leadership structure if it determines that doing so is appropriate and include in our proxy materials up to the greater of two director candidates or 20% of the Board. This right provides an avenue for stockholder action that is incremental to our special meeting right and further reduces the need for stockholders to act by written consent.

Eliminating Supermajority Voting – In 2013, in response to anon-binding stockholder proposal at the 2012 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, the Board recommended and stockholders approved amendments to our Certificate of Incorporation to eliminate the supermajority voting provision. The Board subsequently eliminated the supermajority voting provision from our Bylaws as well.

No Stockholder Rights Plan – We do not have a stockholder rights plan, orso-called “poison pill.”

Stockholder Engagement – Stockholders can communicate directly with the Board and/or individual directors, and we regularly engage with our investors to solicit views on important issues such as our governance practices, executive compensation program, and our stockholders’ rights. Since the 2017 Annual Meeting, we contacted our top stockholders representing over 55% of our outstanding shares.

Consistent with its current practice, the Board will continue to engage with its stockholders on corporate governance measures and evaluate appropriate changes to our governance structure, policies, and practices that will serve the best interests of the Company and our stockholders at any given time. We believe that this approach is in the stockholders’ best interests as it provides the Board with the necessary flexibility to intentionally and thoughtfully determine the leadership needs of the Company at any particular time; the Board is in the best position to make this decision, informed by its regular discussions on succession as well as its knowledge of Company dynamics.Limiting this critical decision to the rigid requirements of the stockholder proposal would be detrimental to our Company’s stockholders.


For the past 23 years, the roles of Chairman and CEO have been held by one individual, which has provided consistent communication and coordination through the Company and has allowed for an effective and efficient implementation of our corporate strategy. It is under this model that the Company has experienced strong financial and operational growth. More specifically, this leadership structure contributed to tremendous shareholder value creation at our Company, outperforming the S&P 500 and our peer index, and growing Edwards’ market capitalization from $961.5 million to $50,375.9 million (from March 27, 2000, to February 1, 2023, respectively), which is an increase of 5,140%.

On December 6, 2022, we announced that following regular succession planning discussions with the Board, Michael Mussallem will be retiring as CEO and Bernard Zovighian would be succeeding Mr. Mussallem in the role of CEO, effective as of the Annual Meeting. Mr. Mussallem will remain engaged with the Company as non-executive Chairman. Additionally, the Board determined that Martha Marsh would remain the Board’s Lead Independent Director. In summary,order to build upon the Company’s historical success under the existing leadership structure, the Board strongly believes this separation of roles will allow the Company to leverage Mr. Mussallem’s extensive knowledge of the Company and the medical technology industry. This shareholder proposal would prohibit Mr. Mussallem from serving as Chairman and would impair the planned transition of the management of the Company’s strategic initiatives and business and operating plans to Mr. Zovighian. As our CEO, effective as of the 2023 Annual Meeting, Mr. Zovighian has valuable institutional knowledge and is a leader within the industry, making him the best person to continue the Company’s legacy as a global leader in the medical technology industry.

The Board strives to maintain a highly independent, balanced and diverse set of directors and leadership with the collective skills, expertise and experience to ensure proper oversight of the Company.We believe that selecting an appropriate leadership structure is one of the most important tasks of any board of directors.Therefore, the Board follows a comprehensive process, including regular discussions regarding Board and management succession as well as Board structure and governance and evaluations of the Lead Independent Director, Chairman and other directors.Stockholders benefit from a highly engaged Board who appreciates their role in Board governance and holds themselves accountable to making decisions informed by these robust discussions.

In light of the above, rather than imposing an artificial constraint upon our Board’s fundamental decisions on the Board and Company’s leadership, we believe our Board is best positioned to evaluate and consider its leadership structure as the Company’s and the industry’s circumstances evolve over time.



Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 73


The Company’s leadership structure and corporate governance practices, both as recently constructed and from a historical perspective, provide strong independent oversight and have been expanded in response to stockholder feedback.

Our Board firmly believes it is essential to have an active, engaged and independent Board, and our Board maintains strong governance practices to ensure that it continues to provide effective independent oversight in order to serve the best interests of our stockholders.Our Corporate Governance Guidelines provide that if our Chairman is not independent, our independent directors will annually select an independent director to serve as Lead Independent Director. Martha Marsh currently serves as Lead Independent Director and brings extensive leadership and board experience in the healthcare industry to the role.

The Board believes that leveraging Mr. Mussallem’s experience in leading our Company for the past over 23 years makes him the best choice for Chairman of the Board, especially as we transition the CEO role.This shareholder proposal would prohibit putting the CEO transition plan into effect.

Additionally, our Board prides itself on its strong commitment to stockholder engagement, and the Board and our executive management continually listen to and evaluate feedback from our stockholders.In particular, Mr. Chevedden presented the same proposal in 2019 and it was opposed by a significant majority of our stockholders.Following receipt of Mr. Chevedden’s prior proposal, and in connection with our regular stockholder outreach engagement program, we engaged with our stockholders and received valuable feedback which led the Board to expand the role of the Presiding Director position and, in light of the existingadditional responsibilities, renamed the position Lead Independent Director.We also disagree with Mr. Chevedden’s suggestion that the Lead Independent Director has hardly any exclusive powers.As the proposal states, pursuant to our Corporate Governance Guidelines, the Lead Independent Director has a robust set of clearly defined duties and carefully considered specialresponsibilities which include, but are not limited to:

serving as a liaison between the independent members of the Board and the Chairman and other members of management;
approving Board meeting right,agendas and relevant information provided to the Board;
approving Board meeting schedules to ensure there is sufficient time for discussion of all agenda items;
coordinating the activities of the independent directors, including calling meetings of the independent directors as wellnecessary and appropriate to address their responsibilities; and
providing advice, counsel and support to the Chairman.

While the Board as a whole works together to oversee management’s execution of our Company’s operations, our Company’s risk exposure and risk management plans, and our Company’s overall strategic direction, the Lead Independent Director, who applies her many years of board governance experience, works closely with the Chairman of the Board and takes action as determined necessary or appropriate to ensure there is critical independent oversight over these key areas of focus.These additional actions include, but are not limited to:

requesting information from management;
proposing executive sessions of the independent directors;
proposing separate meetings of the Board;
proposing meetings with individual members of the Board or of management; and
collaborating with the Chairman of the Board in determining agenda items to be presented by management or actions to be taken by the Board in response to information obtained from management, the independent directors and other stakeholders.

In addition to establishing the role of Lead Independent Director to ensure independent oversight of our Board, our Corporate Governance Guidelines provide that a substantial majority of our Board and all members of our Audit Committee and Compensation and Governance Committee will be independent under the applicable rules of the NYSE. All members of our Board, other than our Chief Executive Officer and Chairman, are independent.These independent directors bring a broad range of leadership experience to the Company and thoughtfully contribute to the discussions involved in overseeing the affairs of the Company.Consequently, our independent directors directly oversee critical matters such as the Board’s continuing commitment to ensuring effectiveintegrity of the Company’s financial statements, the compensation of key executive management, including Mr. Mussallem and Mr. Zovighian, the selection and evaluation of directors, and the development and implementation of corporate governance programs.In order to assure that the independent directors are not inappropriately influenced by management, the independent directors meet in executive sessions led by our Lead Independent Director, without management, in conjunction with each regularly scheduled meeting of the Board and each committee, and otherwise as deemed necessary by the Lead Independent Director or our other independent directors. These executive sessions allow independent directors to speak candidly on any matter of interest, without our Chairman, Chief Executive Officer or other members of management present. All of our directors are highly engaged in their responsibilities, freely express their views, and are open to the opinions expressed by other directors.


Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 74


The Board’s independent leadership structure is evaluated on a regular basis to ensure that the approach continues to provide effective independent oversight of the Company and serves the best interests of stockholders.

Our independent directors regularly evaluate the Board’s leadership structure and incorporate stockholder feedback into their deliberations. Additionally, the Lead Independent Director’s performance is assessed on an annual basis.As part of this review, the Compensation and Governance Committee evaluates the criteria for nominees for the Lead Independent Director role and assesses any necessary changes. In selecting the Lead Independent Director, the independent directors consider relevant leadership, operational and corporate governance experience, relationships with other directors and external commitments. In addition, the Lead Independent Director is expected to have a thorough understanding of the Company’s business operations and history.

Our plans to update our leadership structure as of the Annual Meeting reflect extensive deliberation and a tailored approach to the Company’s current and upcoming needs. The Board believes that this proposal is unnecessarystructure will be effective for our Company and notwill be in the best interests of our stockholders.

This shareholder proposal would prohibit this structure. As we have done in the past, we will maintain a Lead Independent Director with robust and clearly defined responsibilities to provide strong independent oversight. Our Chairman will provide the Company and the Board with deep knowledge of the Company and the industry, and continuity of expertise in the oversight of the Company’s business operations and corporate governance practices.

THE BOARD RECOMMENDS A VOTE“AGAINST” THIS PROPOSAL REGARDING ACTION BY WRITTEN CONSENT.


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Our Board also believes that the current leadership model, when combined with our independent board governance structure, strikes an appropriate and effective balance between strong and consistent leadership and independent and effective oversight of the Company’s business and affairs.It is this constructive and cooperative relationship between our independent directors and management that has allowed the Board to most effectively carry out its duties.

FOR THESE REASONS, THE BOARD UNANIMOUSLY URGES STOCKHOLDERS TO VOTE “AGAINST” THIS PROPOSAL REGARDING INDEPENDENT BOARD CHAIRMAN POLICY.

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  OTHER MATTERS AND BUSINESS  



Additional Information.    Our Bylaws, Corporate Governance Guidelines and charters of each of theour Audit Committee and Compensation and Governance Committee are posted on our website atwww.edwards.com under “Investors—Corporate Governance.Governance & Sustainability—Governance—Governance Documents.” Our Global Business Practice Standards (applicable to all of theour Company’s employees, executive officers and directors) are posted atwww.edwards.comunder “About Us—Corporate Responsibility.”

In addition, our Sustainability Report is posted on our website at www.edwards.com under “About Us—Corporate Responsibility.” References to our website throughout this Proxy Statement are provided for convenience only and the content on our website does not constitute a part of this Proxy Statement.


Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance.    To our knowledge, all reports that were required to be filed during 20172018 by our executive officers, directors and beneficial owners of more than 10% of our common stock under Section 16 of the Exchange Act were filed on a timely basis, except that Ms. Szyman reported on aone Form 4 filed onfor Mr. Gallahue relating to the annual equity grant to the directors in May 26, 2017, shares surrendered on February 22, 20172022 due to pay applicable withholding taxes upon the vesting of two RSU awards.

an administrative error.


Related Persons Transactions.    Under theour Audit Committee charter, theour Audit Committee is responsible for reviewing and approving or ratifying all transactions with related persons that are required to be disclosed pursuant to Item 404(a) ofRegulation S-K adopted by the SEC. Related persons include our executive officers and directors, nominees for directors, 5% or more beneficial owners of our common stock, and immediate family members of these persons. Transactions involving amounts paid by Edwardsour Company or its subsidiaries in excess of $120,000 and in which the related person has a direct or indirect material interest are referred to as “related person transactions.” TheOur Audit Committee will generally consider all relevant factors when determining whether to approve or ratify a related person transaction. The Audit Committee reviewed and approved the following related person transaction: Mr. Bobo’sBobo's son, has been working for theDaniel Bobo, is employed by our Company forin a number of years,non-executive position in a business unit not under Mr. Bobo’s direction. In 2017,Bobo's direction and his total compensation, surpassed the $120,000 reporting threshold.

including salary and bonus, for 2022 was approximately $134,519.

Indemnification of Directors and Officers.    Pursuant to our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, we indemnify our directors and officers to the fullest extent permitted by law. We have also entered into indemnification agreements with each of our directors and executive officers that contractually commit us to provide this indemnification to him or her.

Deadline for Receipt of Stockholder Proposals and Director Nominations for the 20192024 Annual Meeting

Proposals for Inclusion in the Proxy Materials.    In order for a stockholder proposal to be eligible for inclusion in our proxy statement for the 20192024 annual meeting, the written proposal must be received by the Corporate Secretary of theour Company at its principal executive offices at the address below no later than November 29, 20182023 and must comply with the requirements of theRule 14a-8 under the Exchange Act.

Director Nominations for Inclusion in the Proxy Materials.    Under theour Company’s proxy access right, a stockholder, or a group of up to 30 stockholders, owning at least 3% of our outstanding shares continuously for at least three years, is permitted to nominate up to the greater of two directors or 20% of our Board for inclusion in our proxy statement, provided that the stockholder(s) and the nominee(s) satisfy the requirements in our Bylaws. In order for a stockholder to nominate a director for election to our Board for inclusion in our proxy statement for the 20192024 annual meeting, written notice must be received by the Corporate Secretary of theour Company at its principal executive offices at the address below no earlier than October 30, 20182023, and no later than November 29, 2018.2023. Other specifics regarding the content of the notice and certain other eligibility and procedural requirements, can be found in Section 10 of Article I of our Bylaws.

Proposals and Director Nominations Not Intended for Inclusion in the Proxy Materials.    In order for a stockholder to present a proposal or nominate a director for election to our Board at our 20192024 annual meeting, but not have such proposal or nomination included in the proxy statement for our 20192024 annual meeting, written notice of the proposal or director nomination(s) must be received by the Corporate Secretary of theour Company at its principal executive offices at the address below no earlier than January 17, 201912, 2024 and no later than February 16, 2019.11, 2024. However, if the date of the 20192024 annual meeting is a date that is not within 25 days before or after May 17, 201911, 2024 (the anniversary date of the Annual Meeting), written notice must be received no later than the close of business on the 10th calendar day after the first to occur of the day on which notice of the 20192024 annual meeting is mailed or public disclosure of the date of the 20192024 annual meeting is made. Other specifics regarding the notice procedures, including the required content of the notice, can be found in Section 9 of Article I (with respect to stockholder proposals) and Section 2 of Article I (with respect to director nominations) of our Bylaws.

Our Bylaws require that a stockholder must provide certain information concerning the proposing person, the nominee and the proposal, as applicable. Nominations and proposals not meeting the requirements set forth in our Bylaws will not

64    LOGO     Edwards Lifesciences Corporation    |    2018 Proxy Statement


  OTHER MATTERS AND BUSINESS  

be entertained at the 20192024 annual meeting. Stockholders should contact the Corporate Secretary of theour Company in writing at One Edwards Way, Irvine, California 92614 to obtain additional information as to the proper form and content of stockholder nominations or proposals.

In addition, a stockholder who intends to solicit proxies in support of director nominees other than our Board’s nominees at the 2024 annual meeting must deliver written notice to our Company setting forth the information required by Rule 14a-19 under the Exchange Act no later than March 12, 2024. However, if the date of the 2024 annual meeting is a date before April 11, 2024, or after June 10, 2024, written notice must be received by the later of 60 days prior to the date of the 2024 annual meeting of the 10th calendar day following the day on which public announcement of the date of the 2024 annual

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation I2023 Proxy Statement 76


meeting of stockholder is first made. The notice requirement under Rule 14a-19 is in addition to the applicable notice requirements under our Bylaws as described above.
Annual Report onForm 10-K.    The10-K.    Our Company will furnish without charge to each person whose proxy is solicited, upon the written request of such person, a copy of the 2017our 2022 Annual Report as filed with the SEC, including the financial statements and financial statement schedules (upon request, exhibits thereto will be furnished subject to payment of a specified fee). Requests for copies of such report should be directed to: Edwards Lifesciences Corporation, Attention: Corporate Secretary, One Edwards Way, Irvine, California 92614.

Delivery of the Proxy Materials.    We have adopted a procedure called “householding,” which the SEC has approved. Under this procedure, stockholders of record who have the same address and last name and did not receive athe Notice or otherwise receive their Proxy Materials electronically will receive only one copy of the Proxy Materials unless we receive contrary instructions from one or more of such stockholders. Upon oral or written request, we will deliver promptly a separate copy of the Proxy Materials to a stockholder at a shared address to which a single copy of the Proxy Materials was delivered. If you are a stockholder of record at a shared address to which we delivered a single copy of the Proxy Materials and you desire to receive a separate copy of the Proxy Materials for the Annual Meeting or for our future meetings, or if you are a stockholder at a shared address to which we delivered multiple copies of the Proxy Materials and you desire to receive one copy in the future, please submit your request to Computershare at P.O. Box 30170, College Station, Texas77842-3170,505000, Louisville, Kentucky 40233-5000, (800) 446-2617. If you are a beneficial stockholder, please contact your bank, broker or other nominee directly if you have questions, require additional copies of the Proxy Materials, wish to receive multiple reports by revoking your consent to householding or wish to request single copies of the Proxy Materials in the future.

By Order of the Board of Directors,

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ew-20230327_g57.jpg
Linda J. Park

Senior Vice President, Associate General Counsel,

and Corporate Secretary

ALL STOCKHOLDERS ARE URGED TO SUBMIT THEIR PROXIES PROMPTLY

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Edwards Lifesciences Corporation |    2018I2023 Proxy Statement65

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EDWARDS


APPENDIX A
EDWARDS LIFESCIENCES CORPORATION ONE EDWARDS WAY IRVINE, CA 92614 ATTN: LINDA J. PARK VOTE BY INTERNET: www.proxyvote.com Use
Non-GAAP Financial Information
To supplement the Internetconsolidated financial results prepared in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”), we use non-GAAP historical financial measures. Management makes adjustments to transmit your voting instructionsthe GAAP measures for items (both charges and gains) that (a) do not reflect our core operational activities, (b) are commonly adjusted within our industry to enhance comparability of our financial results with those of our peer group, or (c) are inconsistent in amount or frequency between periods (albeit such items are monitored and controlled with equal diligence relative to core operations). We use the term “underlying" when referring to non-GAAP sales and sales growth information, which excludes currency exchange rate fluctuations. We use the term “adjusted” to also exclude intellectual property litigation expenses, amortization of intangible assets, fair value adjustments to contingent consideration liabilities arising from acquisitions, and a significant program discontinuation.
Management uses non-GAAP financial measures internally for electronic deliverystrategic decision making, forecasting future results, and evaluating current performance. These non-GAAP financial measures are used in addition to, and in conjunction with, results presented in accordance with GAAP and reflect an additional way of viewing aspects of our operations by investors that, when viewed with its GAAP results, provide a more complete understanding of factors and trends affecting our business and facilitate comparability to historical periods.
Non-GAAP financial measures are not prepared in accordance with GAAP; therefore, the information up until 11:59 p.m., ETis not necessarily comparable to other companies and should be considered as a supplement to, and not as a substitute for, or superior to, the day beforecorresponding measures calculated in accordance with GAAP. A reconciliation of the cut-off date or meeting date. Have your proxy card in hand when you accessnon-GAAP historical financial measure used herein to the web site, and follow the instructions to obtain your records and to create an electronic voting instruction form. ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF FUTURE PROXY MATERIALS If you would like to reduce the costs incurred by Edwards in mailing proxy materials, you can consent to receiving all future proxy statements, proxy cards and annual reports electronically via e-mail or the Internet. To enroll in electronic delivery of proxy materials, please follow the instructions above to vote using the Internet and, when prompted, indicate that you agree to receive or access proxy materials electronically in future years. VOTE BY PHONE: 1-800-690-6903 Use any touch-tone telephone to transmit your voting instructions up until 11:59 p.m., ET the day before the cut-off date or meeting date. Have your proxy card in hand when you call and then follow the instructions. VOTE BY MAIL Mark, sign, and date your proxy card and return itmost comparable GAAP measure is provided in the postage-paid envelope we have provided or return ittable below.
Fluctuations in exchange rates impact the comparative results and sales growth rates of our underlying business. Management believes that excluding the impact of foreign exchange rate fluctuations from its sales growth provides investors a more useful comparison to Vote Processing, c/o Broadridge, 51 Mercedes Way, Edgewood, NY 11717. Youhistorical financial results. The impact of foreign exchange rate fluctuations has been detailed in the “Reconciliation of Sales” table below.
The items described below are adjustments to the GAAP financial results in the reconciliations that follow:
Intellectual Property Litigation Expenses, net - Our Company incurred net intellectual property litigation expenses of $15.8 million and $20.6 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively.
Change in Fair Value of Contingent Consideration Liabilities - Our Company recorded income of $35.8 million and income of $124.1 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively, related to changes in the fair value of its contingent consideration liabilities arising from acquisitions.
Amortization of Intangible Assets - Our Company recorded amortization expense related to developed technology and patents in the amount of $5.7 million and $7.7 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Program Discontinuation - Our Company recorded a $62.3 million charge in 2022 as a result of its decision to exit its HARPOON surgical mitral repair system program. The charge primarily related to the impairment of intangible assets associated with the technology and other related exit costs.


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Unaudited Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Financial Information
(in millions, except per share and percentage data)
20222021
GAAP diluted earnings per share$2.44 $2.38 
Non-GAAP adjustments:
Intellectual property litigation expenses, net0.03 0.02 
Change in fair value of contingent consideration liabilities(0.06)(0.19)
Amortization of intangible assets— 0.01 
Program discontinuation0.07 — 
Adjusted diluted earnings per share$2.48 $2.22 
Adjusted growth rate11.7 %
Reconciliation of Sales
(in millions, except percentage data)
     2021 Adjusted 
Sales (YTD)Full Year 2022Full Year 2021ChangeGAAP
Growth
 Rate*
FX
Impact
Full Year 2021 Adjusted SalesUnderlying
Growth
 Rate *
Total$5,382.4 $5,232.5 $149.9 2.9 %$(233.6)$4,998.9 7.7%
* Numbers may hold Edwards shares in multiple accounts and therefore receive more than one proxy card or voting instruction form and related materials. Please vote EACH proxy card and voting instruction form that you receive. TO VOTE, MARK BLOCKS BELOW IN BLUE OR BLACK INK AS FOLLOWS: E42017-P02952-Z71830 KEEP THIS PORTION FOR YOUR RECORDS THIS PROXY CARD IS VALID ONLY WHEN SIGNED AND DATED. DETACH AND RETURN THIS PORTION ONLY not calculate due to rounding.

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APPENDIX B
EDWARDS LIFESCIENCES CORPORATION The Board of Directors recommends you vote FOR the following nominees: 1. ELECTION
Proposed Amendment

CERTIFICATE OF DIRECTORS 1a. Michael A. Mussallem 1b. Kieran T. Gallahue 1c. Leslie S. Heisz 1d. William J. Link, Ph.D. 1e. Steven R. Loranger 1f. Martha H. Marsh 1g. Wesley W. von Schack 1h. Nicholas J. Valeriani For Against Abstain The Board of Directors recommends you vote FOR Proposals 2 and 3. 2. ADVISORY VOTE TO APPROVE COMPENSATIONAMENDMENT
OF
AMENDED AND RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS 3. RATIFICATION INCORPORATION
OF APPOINTMENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM The Board of Directors recommends you vote AGAINST Proposal 4. 4. ADVISORY VOTE ON A STOCKHOLDER PROPOSAL REGARDING ACTION BY WRITTEN CONSENT NOTE: In their discretion, the proxies are authorized to vote upon such other business as may properly come before the meeting or any adjournments or postponements thereof. For Against Abstain For Against Abstain Please sign exactly as your name(s) appear(s) hereon. When signing as attorney, executor, administrator, or other fiduciary, please give full title as such. Joint owners should each sign personally. All holders must sign. If a corporation or partnership, please sign in full corporate or partnership name by authorized officer. Signature [PLEASE SIGN WITHIN BOX] Date Signature (Joint Owners) Date


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Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the Annual Meeting: The Notice and Proxy Statement and Annual Report are available at www.proxyvote.com. E42018-P02952-Z71830

EDWARDS LIFESCIENCES CORPORATION Annual Meeting of Stockholders May 17, 2018 10:00 a.m., PT This proxy is solicited by the Board of Directors The undersigned hereby appoints William J. Link, Michael A. Mussallem, and Wesley W. von Schack as proxies, each with the power

Pursuant to appoint his substitute and with authority in each to act in the absence Section 242
of the others, to represent and to vote all sharesGeneral Corporation Law of the State of Delaware

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation, whicha corporation duly organized and existing under the undersignedGeneral Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the “Corporation”), does hereby certify that:
1. The Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Corporation is entitled to vote athereby amended by deleting Article NINTH thereof and inserting the Annual Meetingfollowing in lieu thereof:
NINTH: To the fullest extent that the General Corporation Law of Stockholdersthe State of Edwards Lifesciences Corporation to be held at the corporate headquarters of Edwards Lifesciences Corporation, One Edwards Way, Irvine, California 92614, on Thursday, May 17, 2018, at 10:00 a.m., PT, and any adjournments thereof,Delaware, as it exists on the proposals described indate hereof or as it may hereafter be amended, permits the Proxy Statementlimitation or elimination of the liability of directors or officers, no person who is, or was at any time but is no longer serving as, a director or officer of the Corporation shall be personally liable to the Corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for any breach of fiduciary duty by such person as a director or officer. If the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware is amended to authorize corporate action further eliminating or limiting the personal liability of directors or officers, then the liability of a director or officer of the Corporation shall be eliminated or limited to the fullest extent permitted by the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, as so amended. No amendment to or repeal of this Article NINTH shall have the effect of increasing the liability or alleged liability of any director or officer of the Corporation for or with respect to any act or omission of such director or officer occurring prior to such amendment or repeal.”

2. The foregoing amendment was duly adopted in accordance with the instructions onprovisions of Sections 242 of the reverse side, and all other matters properly coming beforeGeneral Corporation Law of the meeting. This proxy revokes all proxies previously given by the undersigned to vote at such meeting and any adjournments thereof. This proxy will also serve to instruct the trusteeState of Delaware.
[Signature Page Follows]

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Edwards Lifesciences Corporation 401(k) Savings and Investment Plan and the Edwards Lifesciences Technology Sarl Retirement Savings Plan (formerly known as the Edwards Lifesciences Corporation of Puerto Rico Savings and Investment Plan) (collectively, the "Plans") to vote in accordance with the instructions on the reverse side all shares held for the undersigned in the Plans. For shares held in the Plans, voting instructions submitted over the Internet, by telephone, or by mail must be received by the Plans' trustee by 11:59 p.m., ET, on Monday, May 14, 2018. The Plans' trustee will vote allocated shares for which it receives no written instructions in the same proportion as the allocated shares for which voting instructions have been received. IMPORTANT — This Proxy must be signed and dated on the reverse side if voting by mail. (continued andhas caused this Certificate to be signedexecuted by its duly authorized officer on reverse side)

this __ day of ______, 2023.

EDWARDS LIFESCIENCES CORPORATION


By:____________________________________
Name:
Office:
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