UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, DC 20549

SCHEDULE 14A

(RULE 14a-101)

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Hecla Mining Company

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A Legacy of Success

Hecla Mining Company (NYSE:HL) is the largest primary silver producer in the United States. We have been in business for 133 years and are the oldest NYSE-listed precious metals mining company in North America. We also own exploration properties in world-class silver and gold mining districts throughout North America.

 

 

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MESSAGE FROM YOUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Board of Directors

 

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Board of Directors

From left (back): Charles B. Stanley, Ted Crumley, George R. Johnson, Phillips S. Baker, Jr., and Terry V. Rogers

From left (front): Catherine J. Boggs, Alice Wong, and Stephen F. Ralbovsky

Hecla’s Board of Directors believes strong governance strengthens the Company’s policies and performance and will distinguish Hecla as a respected precious metals producer. Operating transparently and with integrity has helped the Company earn the trust of our shareholders, credibility within the communities where we operate, and dedication from our employees.

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Dear Fellow Shareholder:

Hecla Mining Company (Hecla) has been in business for 133 years and we are the oldest precious metals mining company listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). We stand apart from other mining companies because we operate two of the largest silver mines in the world that contain the highest-grade silver equivalent ounces (Greens Creek and Lucky Friday). Our strategy is to have consistent, long-lived production that increases and improves over time.

Our operating mines are located in Alaska (Greens Creek), Idaho (Lucky Friday), Quebec, Canada (Casa Berardi) and in the Yukon Territory, Canada (Keno Hill). Our current exploration interests are located in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

2023 Performance Highlights

As your Board of Directors (Board), we are pleased to report that Hecla has a bright future. For example, in 2023 we received a patent from the United States Patent Office for the Underhand Closed Bench mining method (UCB) at our Lucky Friday mine. The UCB has made the Lucky Friday safer and more productive than ever in its 80+ year history. In addition, in July 2023, we acquired ATAC Resources Ltd., which consists of a massive land package of over 700 square miles, with identified gold, silver, and base metal mineralization. This acquisition further cements our position in Canada’s Yukon Territory, with our Keno Hill mine having started its production in the second quarter of 2023. This is why we believe Hecla is well-positioned to participate in a year filled with uncertainty, Hecla had a record year both operationally and financially. Hecla was ableglobal economy where silver demand is expected to accomplish this due to our dedicated employees who were not only able to maintain the continuity of the business in the face of COVID-19 and the myriad of related challenges, but also able to achieve significant milestones, and to do so safely and innovatively.increase.

Performance and Innovation in a Challenging Environment

Despite the challenging environment, Hecla performed well in 2021. Highlights include:

•  Produced 12.9 million silver ounces and 201,327 gold ounces, meeting production and cost guidance.

•  Second highest reserves for both silver and gold in Company history.

•  Developed the Underhand Closed Bench mining method at Lucky Friday, which contributed to the 75% increase in silver production and showed improvements in managing seismicity.

•  In 2021, the Hecla Charitable Foundation donated more than $464,000 toward education, youth activities, community programs, and health services activities in communities in which we operate.

•  Strong safety performance with an all-injury frequency rate of 1.45, 40% below the U.S. national average.

•  Returned $20.7 million, or 19%, of free cash flow to our shareholders through dividends.

•  Second highest cash flow from operations of $220.3 million and free cash flow of $111.3 million.1

•  2nd best performing stock in our peer group from 2019-2021.

Our People

For over 130133 years, our people have been our most valuable asset.the driving force in creating shareholder value. As of December 31, 2021, Hecla2023, we directly employed approximately 1,650 people.1,775 people, of which approximately 990 were employed in the United States, 765 in Canada, and 20 in Mexico. The vast majority of Hecla’sour employees are full-time, and approximately 15%260 of our employees are covered by a collective bargaining agreement. Since we are often among the largest private-sector employers in the communities in which we operate, it is important that we fairly compensate our employees. For many decades we have offered competitive wages and among the highest valuedhighest-valued benefits where we operate. In addition to competitive base wages, we offer retirement benefits, health insurance benefits, incentive plans, and paid time off. We believe ourOur retirement benefits, which include both defined benefit and defined contribution plans for U.S.-based employees, set us apart from many other employers.

Creating greater gender diversity in a predominantly male industry is among the priorities of Hecla currently and in the coming years. Management is working to increase the representation of women, local and indigenous people (where applicable) and other diverse people throughout Hecla’s workforce.women.

Health and Safety

The safety and health of our employees is of paramount importance. Hecla investsWe invest in effective ways to operate our mines more safely. Our goal is to achieve world-class safety and health performance by promoting a deeply rooted value-basedvalues-based culture of safety and utilizing technology and innovation to continually improve the safety at Hecla’sour operations. Hecla investsWe invest in our people with training and workforce development programs that focus on safety first. All employees receive training that complies with or exceeds applicable safety and health regulations as set by the

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ii | 2024 Proxy Statement

applicable governing bodyregulator where each operation is located. As part of Hecla’sour commitment to safety, we track a variety of safety performance indicators, including injuries, near misses, observations, and equipment damages. Company-wide, Hecla’s all injury frequency rate dropped by 76% from 2012 to 2021.Our company-wide All-Injury Frequency Rate (AIFR) for 2023 was 1.45. For 2023, both our Greens Creek and Lucky Friday mines posted their best AIFR results ever.

1

A non-GAAP measurement. See Appendix A for reconciliation to GAAP.

2022 Proxy Statement    i


Message from Your Board of Directors

Approach to Sustainability and Advancing on Environmental, Social and Governance (“ESG”)(ESG)

Hecla is proud to produce the essential metals that shape everyday life, and we take seriously our mandate to ensure that the process of extracting those metals has a positive impact on the daily livesAt each of our communities. Our work providessites, we are focused and committed to responsible mining practices that protect the safety of our workforce, minimize the environmental impact of our operations, and respect the communities where we have operations. We provide large economic and social benefits to rural communities, yet our geographic and environmental footprint is small. We are proud of the way our employees maintain their commitment to responsible mining. In 2021,2023, we reducedreceived the Hard Hat Safety Award from the Alaska Miners Association for Greens Creek in recognition of the mine’s exemplary commitment to safety and for the second time in three years the John T. Ryan Safety Trophy for Casa Berardi’s outstanding safety performance in the Quebec-Maritime Provinces Region. To develop a pipeline of talent, we also partnered with local organizations on programs specifically geared toward training students for mining careers. In 2023, our greenhouse gasESG emissions by 43.7% fromintensity achieved a ranking within the lowest decile among peers in our 2019 baseline level and have offset 76,550 tonnes of emissions through purchasing and retiring carbon credits, achieving a net zero carbon emissions level.industry subgroup.

Active Board Refreshment

Since 2016, 50%We believe our Board should have a mixture of long-standing and newer directors to have history and consistency combined with new ideas. Five of our seven directors have joined the Board of Directors has changed as we have welcomed four new directors, including two women. This year we will say goodbyesince 2016 with the average board tenure now nine years. Our most recent addition is Mark P. Board, who was appointed to Terry V. Rogersthe Board on February 22, 2024 – and Ted Crumley, who will retire afteris a nominee for election at the 2024 Annual Meeting. With their departure, our average tenureWe will decrease from 12 years to 9 years. While we will miss Mr. Rogers and Mr. Crumley, and their wealth of contributions and experience, we look forward to the opportunity to further refresh the Board of Directors. As demonstrated by recent additions, we remain committed tocontinue recruiting additional independent directors who willto expand our Board of Director’sBoard’s skillsets, perspectives, and capabilities, with the objective of having a Board of Directors with expansive and diverse experience, a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with our business, and a focus on value and sustainability for the benefit of all stakeholders.

Annual Meeting

For the past two years in response to the pandemic,During 2020 and 2021, we held our annual meetings virtually. This year,In 2022 and 2023, we will taketook a hybrid approach by having a livecombined in-person and virtual meeting, and we plan the same for the 2024 Annual Meeting. This combines the convenience of a virtual meeting for those shareholders who do not travel to the Annual Meeting, while allowing us to directly interact with those shareholders who will come to the meeting in Coeur d’Alene. The attached Notice of Annual Meeting and Proxy Statement serve as well as a virtually alternative meeting via a live audio webcast.your guide to the business that will be conducted at the Annual Meeting.

As your Board of Directors, we want to thank you for your continued confidence in Hecla. We appreciate the opportunity to serve Hecla on your behalf as we continue to navigate through these unprecedented times, but with excitement for what the future holds for the largest U.S. silver producer.

 

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Ted Crumley

Chairman

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Stephen F. Ralbovsky

Director

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Terry V. Rogers

Director

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Charles B. Stanley

Director

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George R. Johnson

Director

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Alice Wong

Director

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Phillips S. Baker, Jr.

Chief Executive Officer, President and Director

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Catherine J. Boggs

Director

ii     www.hecla-mining.com


PROXY STATEMENT

ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS

MAY 26, 2022

Table of Contents

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NOTICE OF 2022 ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERSCatherine J. Boggs

Board Chair

George R. Johnson

Director

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Phillips S. Baker, Jr.

President, CEO and Director

Alice Wong

Director

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Stephen F. Ralbovsky

Director

Mark P. Board

Director

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 iv

Charles B. Stanley

Director

 

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PROXY STATEMENT

Annual Meeting Of Shareholders May 17, 2024

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Table of Contents

NOTICE OF 2024 ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS

1

PROXY STATEMENT SUMMARY

 1

Agenda and Voting Recommendations

  1 

2021 ESG2023 Performance Highlights

  1 

2021 Performance2023 ESG Highlights

1

SHAREHOLDER ENGAGEMENT

2

Say-on-Pay

  2 

SHAREHOLDER ENGAGEMENT

3

ESGSay-on-Pay

4

Environmental Matters

  24 

Corporate Governance

  24 

SUSTAINABILITY

 35

Board Oversight and Management of Sustainability

  35 

Environment

  35 

Risk Management

  46 

Safety and Health

  57 

Human Capital ManagementSupporting and Developing Our People

  68 

Community Engagement

  69 

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

 810

Electronic Access to Corporate Governance Documents

  810 

Corporate Governance Guidelines and Code of Conduct

  810 

Whistleblower Policy

  811 

Communications with the Board

  911 

Board Leadership Structure

  911 

Board Refreshment

  912 

Identifying and Evaluating Nominees for Director

  1013 

Majority Voting for Directors and Director Resignation Policy

  1316 

Diversity

  1316 

SizeNumber of the Board of Directors

  1316 

Board’s Role in Oversight of Strategy and Risk Management

  1316 

Succession Planning

  1619 

Committees of the Board and Committee Assignments

  1620 

Board and Committee Independence; Audit Committee Financial Expert

  1925 

Compensation Committee Procedures

  1925 

20212023 Board Meetings and Attendance

  1925 

Director Orientation and Continuing Education

  2025 

Board and Committee Self-Evaluation Process

  2026 

Evaluation Process

  2026 

Director Candidates Submitted by ShareholdersShareholder Proposals for the 2025 Annual Shareholders’ Meeting

  2127 

PROPOSAL 1 - ELECTION OF CLASS IIIII DIRECTORS

 2228

Biographical Information

  2228 

Current Class IIIII Nominees for Election to the Board – TermTerms Ending at the 20222024 Annual Meeting

  2329

Continuing Class III Members of the Board – Terms Ending at the 2025 Annual Meeting

31 

Continuing Class I Members of the Board – TermTerms Ending at the 20232026 Annual Meeting

  2432 

Continuing Class II Members of the Board – Term Ending at the 2024 Annual MeetingCOMPENSATION OF NON-MANAGEMENT DIRECTORS

 2533

COMPENSATION OF NON-MANAGEMENT DIRECTORS

26

Compensation Consultant and Peer Group Benchmarking

  2633 

Components of Non-Management Director Compensation

  2633 

Equity Compensation

  2633 

Non-Management Director Compensation for 20212023

  2734 

Other

  2734 

Non-Management Director Stock Ownership Guidelines Guidelines

  2734 

PROPOSAL 2 - RATIFY THE APPOINTMENT OF BDO USA, LLPP.C. AS OUR INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM FOR 20222024

 2935

Required Vote

  2935 

Pre-Approval Process

  3036 

Audit and Non-Audit Fees

  3036 

Report of the Audit Committee

  3036 

PROPOSAL 3 - APPROVAL, ON AN ADVISORY BASIS, OF OUR NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICER COMPENSATION

 3238

Required Vote

  3339 

COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

 3440

Executive Summary

  3542 

Key Operating and Significant Financial Results

  3642 

Benchmarking and Competitive Analyses

  3743 

The Compensation Committee Process and the Role of Management and the Human Resources Department

  3845 

Compensation Philosophy and Objectives

  3946 

Elements of Total Compensation

  4148

Targeted Compensation

49 

Overview of our Compensation Decisions and Results for 20212023

  4350 

Other

  52

Clawback Policy

53

Insider Trading Policy

53

Change in Control Agreements

54

Tax and Accounting Considerations

55

COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION

56

COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT

56

COMPENSATION OF NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

57

Summary Compensation Table for 2021

57

Grants of Plan-Based Awards for 2021

60

Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End for 2021

62

Stock Vested in 2021

63 

Stock Ownership Guidelines for NEOs

  6461 

Clawback Policy

62

Insider Trading Policy

62

Change in Control Agreements

62

Tax and Accounting Considerations

63

COMPENSATION RISK ANALYSIS

64

COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION

65

COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT

66

COMPENSATION OF NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

67

Summary Compensation Table for 2023

67

Grants of Plan-Based Awards for 2023

69

Outstanding Equity Awards at Calendar Year-End for 2023

71

Stock Vested in 2023

72

OTHER BENEFITS

73

Pension Benefits

  6573

Retirement Plan

73 

Nonqualified Deferred Compensation for 20212023

  6575 

Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control

  6676 

Summary of Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control

67

CEOChief Executive Officer Pay Ratio

  7181 

OTHER BENEFITSPAY vs. PERFORMANCE

 7282

OTHER MATTERS

 7487

Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions

  7487 

Political Contributions and Engagement

  7487 

Delinquent Section 16(a) Reports

  7487 

Shareholder proposals to be included in next year’s Proxy Statement

  7587 

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management

  7588 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 7891

APPENDIX A - Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures to GAAP

 A-1
 


 

2022 Proxy Statement    iii

 

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LOGONotice Of 2024 Annual Meeting

NOTICE OF 2022 ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERSOf Shareholders

 

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To the Shareholders of Hecla Mining Company:

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that due to the public health impact of COVID-19, and to support the varying levels of comfort regarding in person gatherings, this year’s Annual Meeting of Shareholders (“Annual Meeting”)(Annual Meeting) of Hecla Mining Company (“we,” “our,” “us,” “Hecla,” or the “Company”) will be held on Thursday, May 26, 2022, at 8:30 a.m. PDT in a hybrid (virtual and in person)in-person) meeting format. The Annual Meeting will be held in personin-person at the Elks Lodge #331, 419 Cedar St.our corporate office, located at 6500 N. Mineral Dr., Wallace,Suite 200, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, and virtually, via www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/HL2022,HL2024, on Thursday,Friday, May 26, 2022,17, 2024, beginning at 8:3010:00 a.m. PDT. During the meeting, shareholders will be asked to:

 

Proposal 1 Elect twothree Class III Directors;II Directors
Proposal 2 Ratify the Appointment of BDO USA, LLPP.C. as our Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm for 2022; and2024
Proposal 3 Approve, on an advisory basis, named executive officer compensation.compensation

Shareholders will also transact such other business as may be brought properly before the meeting and all adjournments or postponements thereof.

Whether you plan to attend the Annual Meeting or(and any postponement or adjournment thereof,thereof), you are urged to submit your proxy as soon as possible so that your shares can be voted at the meeting in accordance with your instructions. To participate and vote your shares during the meeting, please see Attending the Virtual Meeting or Attending the Meeting in Person on page 7891 for additional information.

The Board of Directors (“Board”)(Board) has fixed the close of business on March 28, 2022,18, 2024 as the record date for the determination of shareholders entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the Annual Meeting and at any adjournment or postponement thereof (“Record Date”)(Record Date). A list of the shareholders of record entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting will be available for review by any shareholder, for any purpose related to the meeting, between 7:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. PDT at Hecla Mining Company, 6500 N. Mineral Dr., Suite 200, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho 83815, for ten days prior to the meeting and on the day of the meeting. The list will also be available to shareholders at www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/HL2022HL2024 during the Annual Meeting.

PLEASE REVIEW THE PROXY STATEMENT AND VOTE IN ONE OF FOUR WAYS:

 

 

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VIA THE INTERNET

Visit www.proxyvote.com

Follow instructions provided on your proxy card or voting instruction form

 

 

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BY MAIL

Sign, date and return your proxy card or voting instruction form

    

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BY TELEPHONE

Call the telephone number on your proxy card,

voting instruction form or notice (1-800-690-6903),

and follow the recorded instructions

   

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IN PERSON

Vote at the meeting by completing a ballot,
or
online during the meeting at

www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/HL2022HL2024

Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the Annual Meeting to be held on May 26, 2022.17, 2024. This Proxy Statement and our 20212023 Annual Report are available at www.hecla-mining.com, andhttps://www.hecla.com, www.sec.gov/edgar, or at www.proxyvote.com.

We are mailing our “Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy Materials” to shareholders on or about April 12, 2022,4, 2024, which contains instructions on how to access our Proxy Statement and 20212023 Annual Report (“Proxy Materials”)(Proxy Materials) online. We are also mailing a full set of our Proxy Materials to shareholders who previously requested paper copies of the materials. Our Proxy Materials can also be viewed on (i) our website at www.hecla-mining.comhttps://www.hecla.com under “Investors” and then selecting “Annual Meeting,“Shareholder Information,(ii) the SEC website at www.sec.gov/edgar, or (iii) at www.proxyvote.com.

By Order of the Board of Directors

 

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Michael B. White

Corporate Secretary

April 12, 20224, 2024


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2022

Proxy Statement    iv Summary

 


PROXY STATEMENT SUMMARY

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This summary highlights information contained elsewhere in this Proxy Statement. It does not contain all the information you should consider. You should read the entire Proxy Statement carefully before voting. For more complete information regarding the Company’s 20212023 performance, please review our Annual Report on Form 10-K.10-K for the period ending December 31, 2023.

Agenda and Voting Recommendations

 

Proposal 1

 

Election of DirectorsELECTION OF THREE CLASS II DIRECTORS

 

Board Vote Recommendation

FOR

 

Page 2228

  

Proposal 2

 

Ratify the Appointment of
Independent Auditors
RATIFY THE APPOINTMENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

 

Board Vote Recommendation

FOR

 

Page 2935

  

Proposal 3

 

Advisory Vote on

Executive CompensationAPPROVE, ON AN ADVISORY BASIS, NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICER COMPENSATION

 

Board Vote Recommendation

FOR

 

Page 3238

2021 ESG2023 Performance Highlights

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EnvironmentalOperational Highlights

 

SocialFinancial Highlights

 

GovernancePositioning for Growth

  Scope 1  Silver reserves of 238 million ounces, second highest in Company history; and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions reduced 44% from 2019 baseline level to 76,550 tonnes CO2e.gold reserves of 2.2 million ounces.

Retired equivalent tonnage  Produced 14.3 million ounces of United Nations Certified Emissions Reduction credits to be net zero (on Scope 1silver, Hecla’s second highest in the Company’s history, and Scope 2 emissions)151,259 ounces of gold.

  At Lucky Friday, constructed on time and budget, infrastructure that bypassed the fire damaged shaft.

  Keno Hill began silver production in 2021.

•  In 2021, 99%the second quarter of our electricity used at our mines was line power. Of that, 70% was generated from renewable hydropower.2023.

 

  Sales of $720.2 million, the second highest in history, with 39% from silver and 36% from gold.

  Cash flow from operations of $75.5 million, with Greens Creek generating $157.3 million in cash flow from operations and free cash flow of $121.6 million(1).

  Strong balance sheet with $106.4 million in cash and cash equivalents with approximately $121.5 million in available liquidity.

  Returned $15.7 million to our common and preferred stock shareholders through dividends.

  Adjusted EBITDA(2) for the year was $212.6 million, in line with the prior year.

  2024 production expected to be more than 16 million silver ounces and up to 20 million by 2026.

  Restarted our Lucky Friday mine in January 2024.

  In 2024, our Keno Hill mine is expected to approximately double its 2023 production.

  Keno Hill reserves at year-end 2023 were 11% higher than year-end 2022.

  Completed the acquisition of ATAC Resource Ltd., which consisted of a massive land package of over 700 square miles in the Yukon Territory, with identified gold, silver, and base metal mineralization.

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(1)

Free cash flow is a non-GAAP measurement. See Appendix A for a reconciliation to GAAP.

(2)

Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP measurement. See Appendix A for a reconciliation to GAAP.

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2 | 2024 Proxy Statement

2023 ESG Highlights

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Environmental/Safety

Social

Governance

  AIFR (including lost time, restricted work, and medical treatment) of 1.45, lower than the U.S. national average for metal and non-metal mines reported by MSHA.

  Our Greens Creek and Lucky Friday mines recorded their lowest AIFR of 0.29 and 0.66, respectively.

  Greens Creek mine received the annual Hard Hat Safety Award by Alaska Miners Association in recognition of the mine’s exemplary commitment to safety.

  Recognition of Hecla’s culture of innovation with the issuance of a patent in the U.S. for the Underhand Closed Bench (UCB) mining method.

  Received the 2023 National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Mine Safety and Health Metals Sector Technology Innovation Award.

  For the second time in three years, Casa Berardi mine was awarded the John T. Ryan Safety Trophy for outstanding safety performance in the Quebec-Maritime Provinces Region.

Women comprise 10% of Hecla’s workforce, and 21% of managerial positions.

•  80%22% of our workforce is local to our operations.professional/managerial positions.

  In 2021,2023, the Hecla Charitable Foundation donated more than $464,000$377,206 toward education, youth activities, community programs, and health services activities in communities in which we operate.operate.

  In 2021   Hecla has two operations and one exploration project in Canada that have benefit agreements in place with the First Nations – Abitibiwinni at our Casa Berardi Mine, two five-year contracts were awarded to Construction Kiwetin for maintenance and transportation services and will employ 25 in Quebec, the First Nation workers annually overNa-Cho Nyak Dun at our Keno Hill operation in the life ofYukon, and the contracts.Gitanyow at our Kinskuch property in British Columbia.

  Our President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) received the Selwyn Blaylock Canadian Mining Excellence Award, which recognizes an individual who has demonstrated distinguished service to Canada through exceptional achievement in mining, metallurgy, or geology.

 

Four  Five of eightour seven directors joined the Board after 2016,, including one in 2021.

•  1 director retired in 2021 and 2 directors will retire after the 2022 Annual Meeting, dropping averageanother in 2024.

  Average Board tenure from 12 years to nine years.is 9 years.

25%  29% of our directors are women.

  We will have a new Chairperson for the   Our Board appointed its first timewoman Board Chair in 16 years.2022.

  Our Chairman of the Board Chair is independent of our Chief Executive Officer.CEO.

  Directors who receive more “Against” votes than “For” votes must tender their resignation to the Board for consideration.

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Shareholder Engagement

 

Operational Highlights

•  2nd highest reserves for both gold and silver in the Company’s 130-year history.

•  Developed the Underhand Closed Bench mining method at our Lucky Friday Mine, which contributed to the 75% increase in silver production at the Lucky Friday Mine and helped to manage seismicity.

•  Strong safety performance with an all-injury frequency rate of 1.45, 40% below the U.S. national average; 58% reduction from 2016 to 2021.

Financial Highlights

•  Record sales of $807.5 million with net income of $35.1 million.

•  Record Adjusted EBITDA of $278.8million.2

•  Cash flow from operations of $220.3 million, and free cash flow of $111.3 million3which is the second highest in Hecla’s history.

•  Returned $20.7 million, or 19%, of free cash flow to our common and preferred shareholders through dividends.

•  2nd best performing stock in our peer group from 2019-2021, based on total shareholder return.

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2

A non-GAAP measurement. See Appendix A for a reconciliation to GAAP.

3

A non-GAAP measurement. See Appendix A for a reconciliation to GAAP.

2022 Proxy Statement    1


SHAREHOLDER ENGAGEMENT

We viewhave long believed that the delivery of long-term value requires regular dialogue with, and accountability to, our shareholders. As a result, our management team participates in numerous investor meetings throughout the year to discuss our business and strategic priorities. These meetings include in-person, telephonic, and webcast engagements, as well as investor conferences and can occur in a group or one-on-one settings. Our core shareholder engagement with our shareholders as a critical part of our corporate governance and social responsibility profile. Among other benefits, proactive engagement with our shareholders helps us to understand expectations for our performance, maintain transparency, and shape corporate governance and compensation policies. Over the last several years we have undertaken significant shareholder outreach efforts to elicit and understand the concerns of our shareholders and other stakeholders. Participants include management of the Company, includingteam includes our Senior Vice President – Chief Administrative Officer, (“Sr. Vice President and CAO”), Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (“Sr. Vice President and CFO), Vice President – General Counsel, Vice President – Corporate Development & Sustainability, Vice President – Investor Relations and Treasurer, and Assistant Secretary. If requested by a stakeholder,shareholder, our chairpersons of each committee of the Board are available to join our engagements.any shareholder engagement.

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Solicit and receive feedback from shareholders on governance practices and trends, board composition, executive compensation, sustainability, human capital management and other shareholder priorities.Hecla engagement team reports to Board to review shareholder feedback and use information gathered from the winter engagement to, when appropriate, enhance disclosures and revise governance practices, executive compensation program, sustainability practices or other programs and policies.Engage with institutional holders, analysts, and other investors during the year on other topics of interest. In 2023, management conducted approximately 20 presentations for analysts and investors, held approximately 110 one-on-one group meetings with investors, and hosted four quarterly conference calls with investors and analysts allowing for questions and answers with management. In addition, the Company responds to questions from investors and analysts by telephone and email throughout the year.Receive and publish voting results from annual meeting which help shape our ongoing improvements and developments in governance practices, executive compensation, sustainability, and other shareholder interest areas.

In November and December 2021,2023, we sought engagement with 3036 of our largest shareholders (representing approximately 311.0 million shares, or 50.4% of shares outstanding) and the two proxy advisory firms. We had three shareholders responded. We also spoke with one proxy advisory firm. All others whorequest a meeting (representing approximately 21.2 million shares) and eight responded saidthat they did not need to meet with usmeet. The two proxy advisory firms did not respond to discuss any matters. In 2021, management also conducted approximately 18 presentations for analysts and investors, held approximately 105 one-on-one and group meetings with investors, and hosted four quarterly conference calls with investors and analysts allowing for questions and answers with management. In addition, the Company respondedour invitation to questions from investors and analysts by telephone and email throughout the year.engage.

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During our 2023 winter engagement, we discussed:

the Board’s continued search for additional directors;

Board tenure;

our sustainability initiatives;

Indigenous relations; and

corporate governance matters.

Say-on-Pay

In 2021,2023, our Say-on-Pay proposal received 97% support.support of shares voted. During our shareholder outreach this year, there were no significant discussions with, orshareholders raised concerns expressed by shareholders, about our executive compensation program.practices and programs.

ESGEnvironmental Matters

AdditionalEnvironmental topics discussed with shareholders and proxy advisory firms focused on net zero carbon emission levels, and our gap and materiality analysis to reporting frameworks (Sustainability Accounting Standards Board – metals and mining standards, Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures, and Global Reporting Initiative, as well as our Canadian operations benchmarking against the Towards Sustainability Mining protocols). Shareholders did not raise a concern if we stop purchasing carbon emissions reduction credits. See Sustainability on the following page.page 5. Our 2023 Sustainability Report will be available on our website in mid-May 2024.

Corporate Governance

In our 2021 and 20222023 shareholder outreach, we discussed our board diversity and refreshment. Wecomposition. Since 2016, we have added twofive new directors in 2016,to our Board, including one new director in 2017, and one new director in 2021 and the most recent in 2024, thereby reducing the average tenure of the Board.Board to nine years. We also havehad two long-term directors who will not stand for re-election atretire from the Annual Meeting due toBoard in 2022 after reaching our mandatory retirement thus allowing usthreshold, which reduced the opportunitysize of the Board to further refreshsix at that time. We continue to actively seek additional members for our Board and, just recently, added one director, thereby increasing the Board.Board to seven. We hope to add another new director in the next 12 months.

We also discussed three of our corporate governance features that may have an anti-takeover effect on the Company: (i) the inability of shareholders to call special meetings; (ii) our classified Board structure; and (iii) supermajority voting provisions in our Restated Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws. In prior years we have proposed amendments to our Restated Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws to revise these three provisions, but the voting results have never been close to sufficient to implement change. The required vote is 80% of outstanding shares voted in favor of any such change, and we have never obtained higher than 56% of outstanding shares voted in favor. The shareholders and proxy advisory firmswe spoke with unanimously told us that due to the repeated failure of proposals to change these provisions at past Annual Meetings,annual meetings, and the desire to improve the format and readability of our Proxy Statement and the resources involved in printing and mailing a lengthier Proxy Statement, they would not object if we did not include these proposals at our Annual Meeting.

The Board will continue to assess evolving best practices in corporate governance matters, including the subjects of the prior proposals discussed above. In future years, we may again include one or more of these proposals on the agenda for an annual meeting.Annual Meeting. Furthermore, the Board will continue to consider any formal proposals and other feedback that we receive from shareholders. And, we will continue our shareholder outreach efforts so that we can understand and appropriately react to the evolving viewpoints of our shareholders on corporate governance and other matters.

 

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Sustainability

SUSTAINABILITY

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We are committed to meeting the highesthigh standards of environmental stewardship across our operations, respecting human rights in all our business practices, and prioritizing the health, safety and well-being of our workforce and host communities where we operate. We recognize that the long-term success of the Company and sustainable value creation are dependent on integrating into our business strategies, the ESG performance factors that are most important to our stakeholders and business.to our business into our business strategies. Thus, we measure our ESG performance against the following benchmarks:

 

 

the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (“SASB”) – metals and mining standards;

 

relevant aspects of the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures, Global Reporting Initiative; and

 

protocolsMining Association of Canada’s Towards Sustainable Mining (for our Canadian operations). protocols.

We have also prioritized the United Nations Foundation Sustainable Development Goals that most directly align with our business, corporate strategy, and material sustainability issues.

OnMore information about our ESG efforts can be found in our Sustainability Reports (ESG Reports) on our website at www.hecla-mining.com, youhttps://www.hecla.com under “Sustainability.” Note that this information is not incorporated by reference into this Proxy Statement. Forward-looking statements in this Proxy Statement and in our ESG Reports and disclosures are aspirational and not guarantees or promises that goals, targets, or projections will be met, and no assurance can find Hecla’sbe given that any commitment, expectation, initiative, or plan referenced in this Proxy Statement or in our ESG reportingReports and data anddisclosures can or will be achieved or completed. You can view our SASB-compliant 20202022 Sustainability Report.Report on our website. We expect our 20212023 Sustainability Report to be available on our website prior to the Annual Meeting. Governance is discussed in the next section of this Proxy Statement, so this section primarily focuses on the 2021 highlights around the areas of environment, safety and health, human capital management, and community engagement.mid-May 2024.

Board Oversight and Management of Sustainability

TwoPrimarily, two committees of the Board provide ESG oversight. The Health, Safety, Environmental and Technical Committee of Hecla’s Board(HSET Committee) is tasked with overseeing ESG risks, strategic plans, and progress on issues that may potentially adversely impact Hecla’s operations, activities, plans, strategies, or reputation. The focus is primarily on internal matters and the technical requirements of ESG matters. The Governance and Social Responsibility Committee (“Governance Committee”)(Governance Committee) is tasked with reviewing and making recommendations to the Board for ESG matters. Thematters that focus is primarily on policy and external matters. Each committee relies on the activities of the other.

At the executive level, the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer (“Sr.(which position is currently unfilled due to a retirement in December 2023), Vice President and COO”), and the– Operations, Vice President – Corporate Development and Sustainability, and Senior Vice President – Chief Administrative Officer report directly to our Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”)CEO and are responsible for implementing the Company’s ESG programs. At our operations, theour Vice PresidentPresidents – General Manager,Managers, and other employees ensure continuous improvementwork toward achieving sustainability goals.

Environment

Our metals, especially silver and zinc, are critical components to green energy technologies and national security. Demand for responsibly sourced metals is growing. As the largest silver producer in the United States, Hecla is proud to supply an essential metal used in critically important markets including renewable energy technology, medical products, and military defense technology. At the same time, we recognize the importance of responsible mining to ensure that we minimize the impacts of our important work is also having a positive impactactivities on the environmentsenvironment where we live and work. At each of our sites, we implementhave implemented programs to reduce freshwater and energy consumption, reduce our carbon footprint, maintain local water quality backed by rigorous testing and monitoring, and reclaim the land once mining is complete.

We are committedwork to minimizingminimize the environmental impact of our operations through continuous improvement of our processes. We set reduction targets for greenhouse gas (“GHG”) emissions and energy use capturing and we also capture and tracktracking environmental data to benchmark our operations against industry standards to ensureprovide accountability and transparency in our progress against our goals.

Sustainability Targets

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30% reduction of combined GHG emissions (Scope 1 and Scope 2) from our 2019 baseline emissions of 135,301 tonnes CO2e by 2030, while maintaining a net zero (Scope 1 and Scope 2) carbon footprint through the purchase of carbon emission reduction credits;

Utilize cleaner energy sources and increase the proportion of renewable energy in the Company’s energy mix, while committing to a 5% reduction in energy intensity in our operations from 2020 baseline levels; and

Continually improve our climate change disclosure by incorporating climate-related risks and opportunities into our risk management and strategic planning processes aligned with the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures framework.


 

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Risk Management

Environmental Policies, Management System, and Training

Hecla’s Environmental Policy states our commitment to complying with all applicable federal, state/provincial, and local environmental laws and regulations that govern our facilities and going beyond them when minimal compliance does not meet Hecla’s values. Employees and contractors are also expected to comply with all applicable internal policies, programs, standards, and procedures as outlined in our Code of Conduct, and we conduct structured environmental reviews and audits to assess compliance at least annually.

We utilize our Environmental Management System (“EMS”)(EMS) to provide consistency in our environmental programs company-wide and promote a culture of environmental awareness, innovation, and accountability across all our operations. The EMS is a 13-element program that promotes continuous improvement around issues including obligation registers, management of change, air quality, water and waste management, energy management, training, and reporting. The EMS program, which is benchmarked against ISO-14001 and complements Canada’s Towards Sustainable Mining program, is reviewed annually through internal audits and third-party reviews. We are in the process of implementing the EMS at our Keno Hill operations.

As part of our environmental management programs, we are committed to ensuring that our employees receive training to raise awareness of environmental issues and our processes to reduce environmental impact. In 2021, site workers2023, employees’ company-wide received more than 1,5001,200 hours, and contractors received 201 hours of environmental training, focusing on job-specific environmental awareness, hazardous material management, spill response, and reporting.

Climate Change and Net Zero Targets

Hecla recognizes that the impacts of climate change are expected tomay create greater potential risks for our operations, including risks posed by increased frequency of droughtsfrequent and more extreme weather events such as droughts and intense rainfalls. Potential risks to our operations include higher volumes of mine contact water requiring storage and treatment, increased requirements for stormwater diversion and associated water management systems, and reduced availability of freshwater. As part of our enterprise risk management processes, we are committed to incorporating climate-related risks and opportunities into our risk management and strategic planning processes aligned with the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures framework.

At least every three years, we conduct structured high-level risk assessments (“HLRAs”)(HLRAs) that include climate change considerations and appropriate materiality re-assessments. From these assessments, we develop site-specific management action plans that are assigned to the site management team for resolution. Each key risk identified in the HLRA response action plan is matched with an appropriate performance metric against which progress can be measured. Management and relevant employees meet quarterly with the Health, Safety, Environmental and TechnicalHSET Committee of our Board to present project updates, including results from HLRAs and progress on material HLRA action plans.

Hecla is committed to reducing our carbon footprint. To demonstrate our commitment, we have set targets for reductions in Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions. Company-wide, we achieved a 44% reduction in Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions (76,550 tonnes CO2e) from 2019 (135,952 tonnes CO2e) and have seen the GHG Intensity score (Total Metric Tonnes GHG Emissions / Total Revenues US$M) reduced by 53% from 201.92 to 94.8 from 2019. We achieved a carbon neutral or net zero emissions level in 2021 for our Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by purchasing and retiring an equivalent emission tonnage of Certified Emission Reduction credits associated with the Tatay Hydroelectric Project in Cambodia.

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Sustainability

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Environmental Highlights

Protecting the Environment:

Hecla’s responsibilities expand beyond producing essential metals, and we recognize the importance of minimizing the impact on the environments of the communities where we live and work. We are committed to minimizing the environmental footprint of our operations through continuous improvement of our processes.

Integrated Environmental Working Groups:

Each of our sites has a Tailings, Waste and Water working group that considers, among other aspects, climate change-related impacts that could affect site operations which are then integrated into design of mine facility infrastructure.

Renewable Energy:

One of Hecla’s largest sources of electricity is renewable hydropower, and we use as much hydroelectricity as our power suppliers can provide. Currently, at our production sites:

  Casa Berardi uses approximately 100% renewal hydropower to supply line power;

  At Greens Creek, 84% of our electricity is sourced from the grid, of which 100% is renewable hydropower;

  The energy provider at our Lucky Friday location uses a mix of both hydropower and natural gas, with 60% of electricity sourced being renewable; and

  86% of Keno Hill’s power – our newest project – is hydropower.

 

 

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Climate Change:

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44% reduction in Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions from our 2019 baseline levels.

Total Energy Intensity:

We continue to reduce our energy intensity, exceeding our multi-year 5% energy intensity reduction goal.

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Integrated Environmental Working Groups:

Each of our sites has a Tailings, Waste and Water Working Group that considers, among other aspects, climate change-related impacts that could affect site operations which are then integrated into design of mine facility infrastructure.

Renewable Energy:

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In 2021, 99% of our electricity used at our mines was line power. Of that, 70% was generated from renewable hydropower.

Closure:

Hecla continued reclamation at the Troy Mine by finalizing demolition of the office, maintenance, crushing, and milling facilities which were all located on U.S. Forest Service administered public land. Reclamation work completed resulted in release of nearly $8 million in financial assurance by the state.
At our San Sebastian Mine site, we progressed our open pit closure by placing over 3,800,000 tons of waste rock back into the open pits. We partnered with a local contractor for completion of this work.

Safety and Health

Hecla’s commitment to the safety and health of our workforce has been an essential part of our corporate culture for over 130133 years and has enabled us to build the highest reputation for safety with our employees, our communities, and within the industry. We work to operate our mines safely by promoting a deeply rooted, value-based culture, leveraging mining expertise developed over the Company’s long history, and innovating new practices that improve safety while increasing productivity. As an example, 2021 saw the development of the Underhand Closed Bench (“UCB”)patented UCB mining method at the Lucky Friday Mine.mine. The UCB mining method has improved our ability to manage seismicity at the mine.mine while it has also enabled us to increase production.

 

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Safety and Health Highlights

Safety:

In 2023, our AIFR (including lost time, restricted work, and medical treatment) was 1.45, which is lower than the U.S. national average for metal and non-metal mines reported by MSHA.

Safety and Health Training:

  Safety Meetings Held: 979

  Safety and Health Training Hours: 11,338

Safety Awards:

  Three employees at our Nevada Operations each received 2023 Safety Awards from the Nevada Mining Association.

  NIOSH recognized Hecla with its 2023 NIOSH Mine Safety and Health Technology Metal Sector Innovation Award for developing the UCB mining method.

Zero Fatalities:

  In 2023, we had zero employee or contractor fatalities.

 

 

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All-Injury Frequency Rate of 1.45, 40% lower than U.S. National Average:

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Zero Fatalities:

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In 2021, we had zero employee or contractor fatalities.

Decrease in Non-compliance Violations:

We had 93 total non-compliance violations in 2021, representing a 54% reduction since 2020.
 In 2021, Hecla’s Casa Berardi Mine received the John T. Ryan Safety Trophy for the Quebec-Maritime Provinces Region for outstanding safety performance. The annual award is given by the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum to the mine with the lowest reportable injury frequency.

Supporting and Developing Our People

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Sustainability

Human Capital Management

Hecla’s human capital managementHecla is dedicated to investing continuously in the technology, training, systems, and programs that help protect and support our people. We also strive to have our workforce at least mirror the local demographic diversity including but not limitedand try to be more diverse for gender, ethnicity, and local indigenousIndigenous people.

At the executive level, the Senior Vice President – Chief Administrative Officer reports directly to the CEO and is responsible for the Company’s programs to support and develop our people. At the local level, each operating site has a human resource professional whose primary role is to support and develop our people (where applicable). at that site.

As of December 31, 2021,2023, Hecla employed approximately 1,6501,775 people, of which approximately 950990 were employed in the United States, 650770 in Canada, and 5020 in Mexico. The vast majority of Hecla’s employees are full-time, and approximately 15%260 of theour employees are covered by a collective bargaining agreement. Creating greater gender diversity in a predominantly male industry is among the priorities of Hecla currently and in the coming years. Management is working to increase the representation of women, local and indigenous people (where applicable) and other diverse people throughout Hecla’s workforce.

At the executive level, the Sr. Vice President and CAO reports directly to the CEO and is responsible for implementing the Company’s human capital management program. The position is an executive-level position to reflect the priority we place on utilizing our human capital resources to meet our business strategy. At the local level, each operating site has a human resource professional whose primary role is to manage the Company’s human capital management program at their respective site.

 

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Human Capital Management Highlights

 

Gender Diversity:

Gender Diversity:

  10% of our workforce are women, and women hold 22% of our professional/managerial positions. 29% of our Board is made up of women.

  We have implemented programs to foster the hiring and retention of women including the creation of networking opportunities with senior executives and Board members.

Promoting Diverse Cultures:

  In 2023, approximately 114 First Nations workers worked at Casa Berardi. Hecla encourages its suppliers to hire Indigenous workers and remain committed to providing opportunities to the First Nation businesses.

  Our Casa Berardi mine in Quebec provides annual cultural awareness training for all department heads.

  We hold companywide diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) training to foster an inclusive, welcoming workplace. Trainings are mandatory and employee participation is monitored and tracked by a third party to ensure actual completion.

Discrimination & Harassment:

We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities and complying with all applicable employment laws in the countries where we operate, as outlined in the “Employee Relations” section of our Code of Conduct.

 

10% of our workforce are women and 21% hold managerial positions.

Hiring Local:

80% of our workforce is local to our operations.

Hiring First Nations:

The number of First Nations persons hired from the Abitibiwinni (Pikogan) community by Hecla Quebec has more than quadrupled since 2018 from six to an average of 25 who worked at our Casa Berardi Mine in 2021.

Protecting Human Rights:

  

Protecting Human Rights:

We conduct businesssupport fundamental human rights in all our operations, including our supply chain, and in all jurisdictions in which it conducts business. We operate in countries where human rights laws are respected and promoted and strivepromoted. Our Human Rights Statement discusses our commitment to conduct our business in a manner consistent with the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.

Education:

  We offer a tuition reimbursement program to assist with educational expenses for employees who are interested in furthering their education.

  At Lucky Friday, we provide on-line training through Caterpillar and Epiroc to ensure our miners continually expand their skill sets.

  As part of our workforce training program, new hires in various entry-level professional fields including accounting, finance, geology, engineering, and metallurgy, can participate in a mentoring program where they are paired with retired Hecla employees or other professionals in the community.

Awards:

Our Greens Creek mine was awarded the Juneau Rotary Club’s 2023 Vocational Service Award, for creating career opportunities for the next generation of miners – and other technical trades. Greens Creek funds vocational scholarship programs, tours, class and coursework, internships, and externships.

 

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Community Engagement

Over our 130-year133-year history, Hecla has always been a strong partner in the communities where we operate. Through the continued growth of our responsible mining operations, we provide significant social and economic benefits to our local communities. We are the largest private-sector employer and taxpayer in Juneau, Alaska, near our Greens Creek Mine andmine, in Wallace/Mullan, Idaho, near our Lucky Friday Mine.mine, in La Sarre, Quebec, near our Casa Berardi mine, and in the Yukon Territory, where our Keno Hill mine is located. Some of these operations have been part of their communities for generations.

We engage with stakeholders at all our sites during every stage of the mining life cycle to become a community partner and deepen our understanding of local concerns and issues. We communicate information through a variety of methods including community meetings, local and social media, and flyers, with all materials available in the local language with translation provided if necessary. We disclose the results of environmental, economic, and social impact assessments and partner with local stakeholders to mitigate any environmental and social impacts.stakeholders. We also work with local stakeholders to identify opportunities for the Hecla Charitable Foundation to provide support for community initiatives.

 

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Community Engagement Highlights

Engaging with Community Stakeholders:

We engage with stakeholders at all our sites during the mining life cycle to be a constructive partner in the communities where we operate and deepen our understanding of local concerns and issues.

Indigenous Relations:

With the purchase of Alexco Resources in 2022, Hecla has two operations and one exploration project in Canada that have benefit agreements in place with the First Nations. This includes the Abitibiwinni at the Casa Berardi Mine in Quebec, the First Nation Na-Cho Nyak Dun at Keno Hill in the Yukon, and the Gitanyow at the Kinskuch property in British Columbia.

Community Partnerships:

  In Montana, Hecla originated the Grizzly Corridor Project in collaboration with biologists, the U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife, and local logging contractors. On Hecla land, we strategically thinned tree density to open the canopy, thereby resulting in travel routes for bears while increased sunlight stimulates growth in the understory.

  In Montana, we also partnered with the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes to harvest and plant over 200,000 native shrubs and trees at our reclaimed Troy mine.

Supporting Communities through the Hecla Charitable Foundation:

In 2023, the Hecla Charitable Foundation donated more than $377,206 toward education, youth activities, community programs, and health services activities in communities in which we operate.

Building a Skilled Workforce:

  At our Greens Creek mine in Alaska, we have partnered with multiple entities to create a skilled local workforce.

  At Prince William Sound College in Alaska, we created a Millwright program, including full scholarships.

  At the Alaska Vocational Technical Center, we provided scholarships and internships to Diesel and Electrical Tech students.

  We continue to use the Mining and Petroleum Training Service in Alaska to train employees new to mining.

 

 

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The Company has a Supplier Code of Conduct that sets out the minimum standards of conduct expected from all suppliers wishing to do business with, or on behalf of, Hecla and its subsidiaries.

Indigenous Relations:

In 2021 at our Casa Berardi Mine, two five-year contracts were awarded to Construction Kiwetin for maintenance and transportation services, resulting in the employment of 25 First Nations workers annually over the life of the contracts. A contract for clearing land for exploration drilling was given to Cooperative de solidarite de Pikogan, which will employ a minimum of two workers for a three-month period.

Supporting Communities through the Hecla Charitable Foundation:

In 2021, the Hecla Charitable Foundation donated more than $464,000 toward education, youth activities, community programs, and health services activities in communities in which we operate.

Engaging with Stakeholders:Corporate Governance

 

Our Greens Creek Mine was named the Alaska Chamber’sLarge Business of the Year in 2021.LOGO

Building a Skilled Workforce:

In 2020, our Greens Creek Mine renewed a partnership with the University of Alaska Southeast (UAS) Center for Mine Training with a gift of $315,000 for scholarship assistance over the next three years. This makes over $1.2 million invested by the Company in this program over the past 10 years.

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CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

We are committed to effective corporate governance that reflects our values and supports our strategic and financial objectives and performance. Our corporate governance practices are generally reflected in our Bylaws, Corporate Governance Guidelines, Code of Conduct, Whistleblower Policy, and board committee charters.

Electronic Access to Corporate Governance Documents

Our corporate governance documents are available on our website at www.hecla-mining.comhttps://www.hecla.com by selecting the tab entitled “Investors”titled “Company” and then selecting the tab entitledtitled “Governance and& Ethics.” These include:

 

Bylaws

Bylaws

Restated Certificate of Incorporation

Corporate Governance Guidelines

Whistleblower Policy

Code of Conduct

Code of Ethics: CEO and Senior Financial Officers

Supplier Code of Conduct

Human Rights Statement

Safety and Health Policy

Bribery and Anti-Corruption Policy (included in Code of Conduct)

Charters of the Audit, Compensation, Governance, and Social Responsibility, and Health, Safety, Environmental and TechnicalHSET Committees of the Board

Shareholders may also request a free copy of these documents from: Investor Relations, Hecla Mining Company, 6500 N. Mineral Drive, Suite 200, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho 83815-9408; (208) 769-4100.

Corporate Governance Guidelines and Code of Conduct

The Board has adopted Corporate Governance Guidelines and a Code of Conduct in accordance with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the NYSE corporate governance standards. The Corporate Governance Guidelines were adopted by the Board to ensure the Board is independent from management, that the Board adequately performs its function as the overseer of management, and to help ensure that the interests of the Board and management align with the interests of our shareholders.

We believe that operating with honesty and integrity has earned trust from our shareholders, credibility within our communities and dedication from our employees. Our directors, officers and employees are required to abide by our Code of Conduct to promote the conduct of our business in a consistently legal and ethical manner. Our Code of Conduct covers many topics, including conflicts of interest, confidentiality, fair dealing, proper use of the Company’s assets, and compliance with laws, rules, and regulations. In addition to the Code of Conduct for directors, officers and employees, our CEO, Senior Vice President Chief Financial Officer, Vice President – Controller, and site controllers are also bound by a separate Code of Ethics.

The Governance Committee has adopted procedures to receive, retain, and react to complaints received regarding possible violations of the Code of Conduct, and to allow for the confidential and anonymous submission by employees of concerns regarding possible violations of the Code of Conduct. Our employees may submit any concerns regarding apparent violations of the Code of Conduct to their supervisor, our Vice President – General Counsel, the Chair of the Governance Committee, or through our website submission page or telephone hotline (both of which have the option to remain anonymous).

In 2023, we did not receive any reports of misconduct through our website submission page or telephone hotline, established as part of our Code of Conduct.

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Shareholders may also request a free copy of these documents from: Investor Relations, Hecla Mining Company, 6500 N. Mineral Drive, Suite 200, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho 83815-9408; (208) 769-4100.2024 Proxy Statement | 11

Corporate Governance Guidelines and Code

Whistleblower Policy

We have a Whistleblower Policy adopted by our Audit Committee that encourages our employees, suppliers, contractors, shareholders, customers, or other stakeholders (collectively, stakeholders) to report to appropriate Company representatives, without fear of retaliation, any information relating to possible fraud or questionable accounting, internal controls, or auditing matters. Stakeholders may confidentially submit any concerns to the Company’s Vice President – General Counsel, or through a third-party telephone hotline and online reporting system (ConfidenceLine), both of which have the option of remaining anonymous. The goal of this policy is to discourage illegal activity and business conduct that damages Hecla’s reputation, business interests, and our relationship with stakeholders.

In 2023, we did not receive any reports through our secure online reporting system established as part of Conduct

The Board has adopted Corporate Governance Guidelines and a Code of Conduct in accordance with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) corporate governance standards. The Corporate Governance Guidelines were adopted by the Board to ensure that the Board is independent from management, that the Board adequately performs its function as the overseer of management, and to help ensure that the interests of the Board and management align with the interests of our shareholders.

We believe that operating with honesty and integrity has earned trust from our shareholders, credibility within our communities and dedication from our employees. Our directors, officers and employees are required to abide by our Code of Conduct to promote the conduct of our business in a consistently legal and ethical manner. Our Code of Conduct covers many topics, including conflicts of interest, confidentiality, fair dealing, proper use of the Company’s assets, and compliance with laws, rules and regulations. In addition to the Code of Conduct for directors, officers and employees, our CEO and Sr. Vice President and CFO are also bound by a separate Code of Ethics.

The Governance Committee has adopted procedures to receive, retain, and react to complaints received regarding possible violations of the Code of Conduct, and to allow for the confidential and anonymous submission by employees of concerns regarding possible violations of the Code of Conduct. Our employees may submit any concerns regarding apparent violations of the Code of Conduct to their supervisor, our Vice President and General Counsel, the Chair of the Governance Committee, or through our anonymous telephone hotline.

Whistleblower Policy

We have a Whistleblower Policy adopted by our Audit Committee that encourages our employees, suppliers, contractors, shareholders, customers, or other stakeholders (collectively, “stakeholders”) to report to appropriate Company representatives, without fear of retaliation, any information relating to possible fraud or questionable accounting, internal controls, or auditing matters. Stakeholders may confidentially submit any concerns to the Company’s Vice President and General Counsel, or through an anonymous telephone hotline or a special website. The goal of this policy is to discourage illegal activity and business conduct that damages Hecla’s reputation, business interests, and our relationship with stakeholders.

In 2021, we did not receive any complaints under our Whistleblower Policy.

Communications with the Board

Stakeholders wishing to communicate with our Board Chair or with the independent directors as a group may do so by delivering or mailing the communication in writing to: Board Chair, c/o Corporate Secretary, Hecla Mining Company, 6500 N. Mineral Drive, Suite 200, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho 83815. Concerns relating to accounting, internal controls or auditing matters are immediately brought to the attention of our internal auditor and overseen in accordance with procedures established by the Audit Committee with respect to such matters. From time to time, the Board may change the process by which stakeholders may communicate with the Board or its members. Please refer to our website at https://www.hecla.com, selecting the tab titled “Company” and then the tab titled “Governance & Ethics,” for any changes in this process.

Board Leadership Structure

Currently, the positions of CEO and Board Chair are held by separate persons. The Board believes this structure is optimal for the Company at this time because it allows the CEO to focus on leading the Company’s business and operations, and the Board Chair to serve as a sounding board and advisor to the CEO, and to lead the activities of the Board. The Board has also determined that having this structure ensures a greater role for the independent directors in the oversight of the Company, and it enhances the Board’s independence and, we believe, senior management’s accountability to the Board.

In the future, if the individual elected as Board Chair also were to be the CEO, the independent directors would elect a Lead Independent Director for a one-year term. This would help ensure continued robust independent leadership of the Board.

Executive sessions of independent directors are included on the agenda for every regularly scheduled Board meeting and were held at each Board meeting in 2023. The executive sessions are chaired by the Board Chair. Our independent directors meet in executive sessions without management present unless the independent directors request their attendance. For the foregoing reasons, we have determined that our leadership structure is appropriate in the context of our specific circumstances.

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12 | 2024 Proxy Statement

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Board Refreshment

In accordance with our Corporate Governance Guidelines, the Governance Committee reviews annually the composition and size of the Board, recognizing the importance of refreshment to maintain a balance of tenure, diversity, skill sets and experience on our Board. Our Board currently consists of seven members, six of whom the Board has affirmatively determined are independent. There are three current Class II directors whose terms will expire at the Annual Meeting: Stephen F. Ralbovsky, Catherine J. Boggs, and Mark P. Board (who was added to the Board in February 2024). Since 2016, we have recruited five new Board members, reflecting our continual process of board refreshment. These five additions to our Board are consistent with our objective to have a Board with expansive and diverse experience, a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with our business and a focus on value and sustainability for the benefit of all stakeholders. Our director recruitment efforts are ongoing and further additions to the Board are anticipated.

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2024 Proxy Statement | 13

Identifying and Evaluating Nominees for Director

Director Selection Process

1

 

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Corporate GovernanceCANDIDATE RECOMMENDATIONS

 

Communications withFrom shareholders, management, directors, and search firms

2

GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE

Evaluates the BoardBoard’s needs and screens and interviews candidates

Stakeholders wishing to communicate with our Chairman of the Board (“Chairman”) or with the independent directors as a group may do so by delivering or mailing the communication in writing to: Chairman of the Board, c/o Corporate Secretary, Hecla Mining Company, 6500 N. Mineral Drive, Suite 200, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho 83815-9408. Concerns relating to accounting, internal controls or auditing matters are immediately brought

Reviews qualifications and expertise, tenure, regulatory requirements, and diversity

Recommends nominees to the attention of our internal auditor and handled in accordance with procedures established by the Audit Committee with respect to such matters. From time to time, the Board may change the process by which stakeholders may communicate with the Board or its members. Please refer to our website at www.hecla-mining.com, selecting the tab entitled “Investors” and then the tab entitled “Governance and Ethics,” for any changes in this process.

Board Leadership Structure

3

Currently, the positions of CEO and Chairman are held by separate persons. The Board believes this structure is optimal for the Company at this time because it allows the CEO to focus on leading the Company’s business and operations, and the Chairman to serve as a sounding board and advisor to the CEO, and to lead the activities of the Board. The Board has also determined that having this structure ensures a greater role for the independent directors in the oversight of the Company, and it enhances the Board’s

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Discusses, analyzes independence, and we believe, senior management’s accountability to the Board.

In the future, if the individual elected as Chairman also were to be the CEO, the independent directors would elect a Lead Independent Directorselects nominees for a one-year term. This would help ensure continued robust independent leadership of the Board.election

Currently, our Chairman chairs meetings of the Board, as well as the executive sessions with independent members of the Board. The Chairman’s duties include:

chairing annual shareholder meetings;

overseeing the preparation of agendas for Board meetings;

preparing for executive sessions of the Board and providing feedback to the CEO;

staying current on developments to determine when it may be appropriate to alert the Board to significant pending developments; and

serving as a liaison between independent directors and the CEO with respect to sensitive issues.

Executive sessions of independent directors are included on the agenda for every regularly scheduled Board meeting. During 2021, executive sessions were held at each regularly scheduled Board meeting. The executive sessions are chaired by the Chairman. Our independent directors meet in executive sessions without management present unless the independent directors request their attendance. For the foregoing reasons, we have determined that our leadership structure is appropriate in the context of our specific circumstances.

Board Refreshment

In accordance with our Corporate Governance Guidelines, the Governance Committee reviews annually the composition and size of the Board, recognizing the importance of refreshment to maintain a balance of tenure, diversity, skill sets and experience on our Board. Our Board currently consists of eight members, seven of whom the Board has affirmatively determined are independent. There are three Class III directors whose terms will expire at the Annual Meeting: Ted Crumley, Terry V. Rogers, and Charles B. Stanley. Messrs. Crumley and Rogers have reached the mandatory retirement age and will not stand for re-election. Due to these retirements, the Board will reduce its size from eight members to six members at the Annual Meeting.

Since 2016, we have recruited four new Board members. These four additions to our Board are consistent with our objective to have a Board with expansive and diverse experience, a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with our business and a focus on value and sustainability for the benefit of all stakeholders. With the upcoming retirement of Messrs. Crumley and Rogers, our director recruitment efforts are ongoing and further additions to the Board are anticipated within the next year.4

 

2022 Proxy Statement    9


Corporate GovernanceSHAREHOLDERS

 

Identifying and Evaluating Nominees for Director

Director Selection Process

1 Candidate Recommendations  LOGO  2 Governance Committee  LOGO  3 

Board of

Directors

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Shareholders

 

From shareholders, management, directors, and search firms 

•  Evaluates the Board’s needs and screens and interviews candidates

•  Reviews qualifications and expertise, tenure, regulatory requirements, and diversity

•  Recommends nominees

 Discusses, analyzes independence, and selects nominees for election Vote on nominees at annual meeting

The Governance Committee uses a variety of methods for identifying and evaluatingVote on nominees for director. The Governance Committee is responsible for ensuring that the composition of the Board accurately addresses the needs of our business. In the event vacancies are anticipated, or arise, the Governance Committee considers various potential candidates for director. Candidates may come to the attention of the Governance Committee through current Board members, professional search firms, shareholders, or other persons. Consideration of new director nominee candidates typically involves a series of internal discussions, review of information concerning candidates and interviews with selected candidates. The Governance Committee then determines the best qualified candidates based on the established criteria and recommends those candidates to the Board for election.

While the Governance Committee and our Board prioritize maintaining a board that is comprised of directors with a diverse set of skills, backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, they also recognize the importance of balancing these qualifications with the overall tenure of directors in their long-term approach to board refreshment. The fresh viewpoints and philosophies newer directors bring, coupled with the valuable experience and institutional knowledge the longer-tenured directors possess, benefits the Board and its overall contribution to the Company.

The Board has appointed four highly qualified directors since 2016 who bring insight to areas such as mining, international business, acquisitions, operations, legal, risk management, geology, engineering, finance, and tax. To supplement our newer directors, our longer-tenured directors have extensive knowledge of our operations and have the perspective of overseeing our business activities through economic cycles and across differing competitive environments.

We hold the view that the continuing service of qualified incumbents promotes stability and continuity in the boardroom, contributing to the Board’s ability to work as a collective body, while giving us the benefit of familiarity and insight into our affairs that our directors have accumulated during their tenure. Recent additions to the Board provide new perspectives and diversity, while directors who have served for a number of years bring experience, continuity, institutional knowledge, and insight into the Company’s business and industry. Directors with relevant business and leadership experience provide the Board with a useful perspective on business strategy and significant risks, and an understanding of the challenges facing the business. Accordingly, the process for identifying nominees reflects our practice of re-nominating incumbent directors who (i) continue to satisfy the Governance Committee’s criteria for membership on the Board, (ii) the Governance Committee believes continue to make important contributions to the Board, and (iii) consent to continue their service on the Board. Directors should also be able to commit the requisite time for preparation and attendance at regularly scheduled Board and committee meetings, as well as be able to participate in other matters necessary to ensure good corporate governance is practiced.Annual Meeting

The Governance Committee reviews annually with the Board the composition of the Board as a whole and recommends, if necessary, measures to be taken so that the Board reflects the appropriate balance of knowledge, experience, skills, expertise, and diversity required for the Board as a whole and contains at least the minimum number of independent directors required by applicable laws and regulations. Board members should possess such attributes and experience as are necessary for the Board as a whole and contain a broad range of personal

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Corporate Governance

The Governance Committee uses a variety of methods for identifying and evaluating nominees for director. The Governance Committee is responsible for ensuring that the composition of the Board accurately addresses the needs of our business. In the event vacancies are anticipated, or arise, the Governance Committee considers various potential candidates for director. Candidates may come to the attention of the Governance Committee through current Board members, professional search firms, shareholders, or other persons. Consideration of new director nominee candidates typically involves a series of internal discussions, review of information concerning candidates and interviews with selected candidates. The Governance Committee then determines the best qualified candidates based on the established criteria and recommends those candidates to the Board for appointment until such time as they stand for election by our shareholders.

While the Governance Committee and our Board prioritize maintaining a board that is comprised of directors with a diverse set of skills, backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, they also recognize the importance of balancing these qualifications with the overall tenure of directors in their long-term approach to board refreshment. The fresh viewpoints and philosophies newer directors bring, coupled with the valuable experience and institutional knowledge the longer-tenured directors possess, benefits the Board and its overall contribution to the Company and our shareholders.

Since 2016, the Board has appointed five highly qualified directors who bring insight to areas such as mining, international business, acquisitions, operations, legal, risk management, geology, engineering, finance, and tax. To supplement our newer directors, our longer-tenured directors have extensive knowledge of our operations and have the perspective of overseeing our business activities through economic cycles and across differing competitive environments.

We hold the view that the continuing service of qualified incumbents promotes stability and continuity in the boardroom, contributing to the Board’s ability to work as a collective body, while giving us the benefit of familiarity and insight into our affairs that our directors have accumulated during their tenure. Recent additions to the Board provide new perspectives and diversity, while directors who have served for a number of years bring experience, continuity, institutional knowledge, and insight into the Company’s business and industry. Directors with relevant business and leadership experience provide the Board with a useful perspective on business strategy and significant risks, and an understanding of the challenges facing the business. Accordingly, the process for identifying nominees reflects our practice of re-nominating incumbent directors who (i) continue to satisfy the Governance Committee’s criteria for membership on the Board, (ii) the Governance Committee believes continue to make important contributions to the Board, and (iii) consent to continue their service on the Board. Directors should also be able to commit the requisite time for preparation and attendance at regularly scheduled Board and committee meetings, as well as be able to participate in other matters necessary to ensure good corporate governance is practiced.

The Governance Committee reviews annually with the Board the composition of the Board as a whole and recommends, if necessary, measures to be taken so that the Board reflects the appropriate balance of knowledge, experience, skills, expertise, and diversity required for the Board as a whole, and contains at least the minimum number of independent directors required by applicable laws and regulations. Board members should possess such attributes and experience as are necessary for the Board as a whole and contain a broad range of personal characteristics, including diversity of backgrounds, management skills, mining, accounting, finance, and business experience. Our current directors exhibit an effective mix of skills, experience, diversity, and perspective. Summarized below is a description of why each core competency is important for service on Hecla’s Board.

 

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Knowledge, Skills and Experience

Knowledge, Skills, and ExperienceLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGO
LOGOAudit Committee Financial ExpertLOGOLOGO
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Board Service on Public Companies

We value individuals who understand public company reporting responsibilities and have experience with the issues commonly faced by public companies.

LOGOLOGOLOGOLOGO
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CEO Experience / Public Company Executive

These skills are important to gain a practical understanding of organizations and drivers of individual growth and development. Two of our directors have experience as a CEO.

LOGOLOGO
LOGO LOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGO

Audit Committee Financial Expert

Board Service on Public Companies

We value individuals who understand public company reporting responsibilities and have experience with the issues commonly faced by public companies. Five of our directors have served on boards of other public companies.

CEO Experience

These skills are important to gain a practical understanding of organizations and drivers of individual growth and development. Seven of our directors have had some experience in the administration of a multijurisdictional company. Two of our directors have experience as a chief executive officer.

Corporate Governance

Experience with governance principals and policies. All our directors have had experience in corporate governance.

Environmental and Social Responsibility

Experience with environmental and social responsibility initiatives, including sustainability, diversity, and inclusion. Six of our directors have experience in environmental and social responsibility.

Finance

We believe that an understanding of finance and financial reporting processes is important for our directors to monitor and assess the Company’s operating and strategic performance and to ensure accurate financial reporting and robust controls. It is important to have experience in capital markets, corporate finance, accounting, and financial reporting and several of our director’s satisfy the “accounting or related financial management experience” criteria set forth in the NYSE listing standards. Three of the eight directors satisfy the “audit committee financial expert” criteria set forth in regulations of the SEC, but only one of those directors sits on the Audit Committee. All of our directors have financial knowledge and are financially literate.

Geology, Mining and Engineering

It is important that some of our directors have experience in open-pit and underground mines, as well as knowing the science and technology of extracting minerals, exploration, geology, metallurgy, and geotechnical engineering experience. Two of our directors have experience managing mining operations. Three of our directors have experience in geology, mining, and/or engineering.

Industry Experience

Having experience in our industry or a similar industry contributes to a deeper understanding of our business strategy, operations, key performance indicators and competitive environment. All of our directors have experience in mining or a similar industry.

Industry Association Participation

Experience in organizations that support companies and employers in the mining industry and protect their rights. Three of our directors have chaired an industry organization. Seven of our directors have a long and highly regarded reputation in the industry.

International Business

With operations in Mexico and Canada and prospects for further expansion, international experience helps us understand opportunities and challenges. All of our directors have had international business experience.

Senior Leadership

Experience serving as CEO or a senior business executive, as well as hands-on leadership experience in core management areas, such as strategic and operational planning, financial reporting, compliance, risk management and leadership development, provides a practical understanding of how organizations like Hecla function. All of our directors have senior business leadership experience.

Legal and Compliance

Hecla is subject to a broad array of government regulations. Mining is impacted by changes in law or regulation in areas such as safety, environmental and disclosure. Several of our directors have experience in regulated industries, providing them with insight and perspective in working constructively and proactively with governments and agencies. Three of our directors have formal legal education and understand the legal risks and obligations of the Company.

2022 Proxy Statement    11


Corporate Governance

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

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Reputation in the Industry

        

Risk Management

Considering the Board’s role in risk oversight, we seek directors who can contribute to the identification, assessment and prioritization of risks facing the Company. All of our directors have experience with our business to understand key areas of risk.

        

Strategic Planning, Business Development, Business Operations

Experience defining and driving strategic direction and growth and managing the operations of a business or large organization. All of our directors have experience in setting and managing the strategic direction of a business.

        

Demographics

                

Race/Ethnicity

                

Asian/Pacific Islander

               

White/Caucasian

         

Gender

                

Male

          

Female

              

Board Tenure

                

Years – Average Tenure is 12 years. After Annual Meeting and retirement of Messrs. Crumley and Rogers, average tenure will be 9 years.

 21 5 27 6 6 15 15 1

In general, and as more fully outlined in our Bylaws and Corporate Governance Guidelines, in evaluating director candidates for election to our Board, the Governance Committee will: (i) consider if the candidate satisfies the minimum qualifications for director candidates as set forth in the Corporate Governance Guidelines; (ii) consider factors that are in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders, including the knowledge, experience, integrity and judgment of each candidate; (iii) consider the contribution of each candidate to the diversity of backgrounds, experience and competencies which the Board desires to have represented, with such diversity being considered among the other desirable attributes of the Board; (iv) assess the performance of an incumbent director during the preceding term; (v) consider each candidate’s ability to devote sufficient time and effort to his or her duties as a director; (vi) consider a candidate’s independence and willingness to consider all strategic proposals; (vii) consider any other criteria established by the Board and any core competencies or technical expertise necessary to manage and direct the affairs and business of the Company, including, when applicable, to enhance the ability of committees of the Board to fulfill their duties; and (viii) determine whether there exists any special, countervailing considerations against nomination of the candidate.

Director Qualifications, Evaluation, and Nomination

The Governance Committee believes nominees for election to the Board should also possess certain minimum qualifications and attributes. The nominee must: (i) exhibit strong personal integrity, character and ethics, and a commitment to ethical business and accounting practices; (ii) not be involved in ongoing litigation with the Company or be employed by an entity engaged in such litigation; and (iii) not be the subject of any ongoing criminal investigations in the jurisdiction of the United States, any state, or internationally, including investigations for fraud or financial misconduct.

In connection with the director nominees who are up for election at the Annual Meeting, the Governance Committee also considered the nominee’s role in: (i) overseeing the Company’s efforts in complying with its SEC disclosure requirements; (ii) assisting in improving the Company’s internal controls and disclosure controls; (iii) assisting with the development of the strategic plan of the Company; and (iv) working with management to implement the Company’s strategic goals and plans. Directors are expected to exemplify high standards of personal and professional integrity and to constructively challenge management through their active participation and questioning. Our Bylaws and Corporate Governance Guidelines provide that a director will not be nominated for re-election after their 75th birthday.

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Corporate Governance

 

In additionExperience with governance principles and policies.

LOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGO
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Environmental and Social Responsibility

Experience with environmental and social responsibility initiatives, including sustainability, diversity, and inclusion.

LOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGO
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Finance

We believe that an understanding of finance and financial reporting processes is important for our directors to fulfillingmonitor and assess the above criteria, each nominee for electionCompany’s operating and strategic performance and to the Board at the upcoming Annual Meeting brings a strongensure accurate financial reporting and unique background and set of skillsrobust controls. It is important to the Board, giving the Board competence andhave experience in a wide varietycapital markets, corporate finance, accounting, and financial reporting and several of areas, including corporate governance, executiveour director’s satisfy the “accounting or related financial management legal, accounting, finance, mining, exploration, and board service. The Governance Committee has reviewedexperience” criteria set forth in the nominees’ overall service to the Company during their terms, including the number of meetings attended, level of participation and quality of performance.

Majority Voting for Directors and Director Resignation Policy

In February 2017, the Governance Committee recommended and the Board approved amendments to the Corporate Governance Guidelines to include a director resignation policy. The policy provides that any director who is not elected by a majority of votes cast shall tender his or her resignation to the Governance Committee. The Governance Committee will recommend to the Board whether to accept or reject the resignation offer, or whether another action should be taken. In determining whether to recommend that the Board accept any resignation offer, the Governance Committee will consider all factors believed relevant by it. The Board will act on the Governance Committee’s recommendation within 90 days following certificationNYSE listing standards. Two of the election results. In deciding whether to acceptseven directors satisfy the resignation offer, the Board will consider the factors considered by the Governance Committee and any additional information and factors that the Board finds relevant. If the Board accepts a director’s resignation offer pursuant to this process, the Governance Committee will recommend to the Board and the Board will thereafter determine whether to fill such vacancy or reduce the size“audit committee financial expert” criteria set forth in regulations of the Board. Any director who tenders their resignation pursuant to this provision will not participateSEC.

LOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGO
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Geology, Mining and Engineering

It is important that some of our directors have experience in the proceedings of either the Governance Committee or the Board with respect to their own resignation offer. If a director’s resignation is not accepted by the Board, the director shall continue to serve until the next annual meeting of shareholders or until their successor is duly electedopen-pit and qualified, or their earlier resignation or removal.

Diversity

The Company’s Corporate Governance Guidelines provide the Board should include individuals with a diverse range of experiences to give the Board depth and breadth in the mix of skills represented. The Board seeks to include diversity in professional experience, skills, industry background, race/ethnicity, national origin, and gender,underground mines, as well as knowing the abilityscience and technology of extracting minerals, exploration, geology, metallurgy, and geotechnical engineering experience.

LOGOLOGOLOGO
LOGO

Industry Knowledge and / or Experience

Having experience in our industry or a similar industry contributes to a deeper understanding of our business strategy, operations, key performance indicators and competitive environment.

LOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGO
LOGO

International Business

With operations in Mexico and Canada and prospects for further expansion, international experience helps us understand opportunities and challenges.

LOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGO
LOGO

Legal and Compliance

Hecla is subject to a broad array of government regulations. Mining is impacted by changes in law or regulation in areas such as safety, environmental and disclosure. Several of our directors (and candidates for director) to devote sufficient time to performing their dutieshave experience in an effective manner.regulated industry, providing them with insight and perspective in working constructively and proactively with governments and agencies.

LOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGO
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Risk Management

Size of the Board of Directors

Our Bylaws require the Board to have not less than five nor more than nine members. The size of the Board may be increased or decreased within that range from time-to-time by resolution approved by the affirmative vote of a majority of the Board. On February 26, 2021, the Board increased the size of the Board from eight members to nine members due to the appointment of a new Class I director (Ms. Alice Wong). On May 19, 2021, the Board decreased the size of the Board from nine members to eight members due to the retirement of Mr. George R. Nethercutt, Jr.

The retirement of Messrs. Rogers and Crumley will cause an imbalance in the number of directors onConsidering the Board’s three classes of directors. The Company’s Bylaws and Restated Certificate of Incorporation provide that the number of directors in each class of directors shall be as nearly equal in number as possible. In order to maintain balance among the classes, Alice Wong will stand for election at the Annual Meeting as a Class III director, together with Charles B. Stanley, each with a term to expire at the 2025 annual meeting of shareholders. Immediately following the Annual Meeting, the size of the Board will be reduced to six.

Board’s Role in Oversight of Strategy and Risk Management

Our Board is engaged and involved in overseeing our strategy and takes an active role in risk oversight.oversight, we seek directors who can contribute to the identification, assessment and prioritization of risks facing the Company.

LOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGO
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Strategic Planning, Business Development, Business Operations Expertise

 

Experience defining and driving strategic direction and growth and managing the operations of a business or large organization.

LOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGO
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Human Capital Management

Oversight of the recruitment, retention and development of key talent is critical for execution of Company strategies and initiatives.

LOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGOLOGO
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Cybersecurity and Technology

Experience in providing perspectives on innovation and overseeing the physical and cyber threats against the security of our operations, assets and systems and response preparedness.

LOGOLOGOLOGOLOGO

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2024 Proxy Statement | 15

Gender Diversity

29%

2 Women

(1 of whom chairs a standing committee, and the other is the Board Chair)

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Racial/Ethnic Diversity

14%

1 racial/ethnic minority

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Independence

6 of 7

Are independent

Board Refreshment

New since 2016

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Average Board Tenure

years

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Cybersecurity

57%

Have experience with cybersecurity

83%

Refreshment of independent board members since 2016

Average Age of Directors

68

Industry and Operational Experience/
Risk Management

100%

Have industry and operational experience and risk management experience

In general, and as more fully outlined in our Bylaws and Corporate Governance Guidelines, in evaluating director candidates for election to our Board, the Governance Committee will: (i) consider if the candidate satisfies the minimum qualifications for director candidates as set forth in the Corporate Governance Guidelines; (ii) consider factors that are in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders, including the knowledge, experience, integrity and judgment of each candidate; (iii) consider the contribution of each candidate to the diversity of backgrounds, experience and competencies which the Board desires to have represented, with such diversity being considered among the other desirable attributes of the Board; (iv) assess the performance of an incumbent director during the preceding term; (v) consider each candidate’s ability to devote sufficient time and effort to his or her duties as a director; (vi) consider a candidate’s independence and willingness to consider all strategic proposals; (vii) consider any other criteria established by the Board and any core competencies or technical expertise necessary to manage and direct the affairs and business of the Company, including, when applicable, to enhance the ability of committees of the Board to fulfill their duties; and (viii) determine whether there exists any special, countervailing considerations against nomination of the candidate.

Director Qualifications, Evaluation, and Nomination

The Governance Committee believes nominees for election to the Board should also possess certain minimum qualifications and attributes. The nominee must: (i) exhibit strong personal integrity, character and ethics, and a commitment to ethical business and accounting practices; (ii) not be involved in ongoing litigation with the Company or be employed by an entity engaged in such litigation; and (iii) not be the subject of any ongoing criminal investigations in the jurisdiction of the United States, any state, or internationally, including investigations for fraud or financial misconduct.

In connection with the director nominees who are up for election at the Annual Meeting, the Governance Committee also considered the nominee’s role in: (i) overseeing the Company’s efforts in complying with its SEC disclosure requirements; (ii) assisting in improving the Company’s internal controls and disclosure controls; (iii) assisting with the development of the strategic plan of the Company; and (iv) working with management to implement the Company’s strategic goals and plans. Directors are expected to exemplify high standards of personal and professional integrity and to constructively challenge management through their active participation and questioning. Our Bylaws and Corporate Governance Guidelines provide that a director will not be nominated for re-election after their 75th birthday.

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16 | 2024 Proxy Statement

In addition to fulfilling the above criteria, each nominee for election to the Board at the upcoming Annual Meeting brings a strong and unique background and set of skills to the Board, giving the Board competence and experience in a wide variety of areas, including corporate governance, senior leadership, legal, geology, accounting, finance, mining, exploration, and board service. The Governance Committee has reviewed the nominees’ overall service to the Company during their terms, including the number of meetings attended, level of participation and quality of performance.

Majority Voting for Directors and Director Resignation Policy

Our directors are elected by majority vote (plurality in the case of a contested election). Our Corporate Governance Guidelines include a director resignation policy. The policy provides that any director who is not elected by a majority of votes cast shall tender his or her resignation to the Governance Committee. The Governance Committee will recommend to the Board whether to accept or reject the resignation offer, or whether another action should be taken. In determining whether to recommend that the Board accept any resignation offer, the Governance Committee will consider all factors believed relevant by it. The Board will act on the Governance Committee’s recommendation within 90 days following certification of the election results. In deciding whether to accept the resignation offer, the Board will consider the factors considered by the Governance Committee and any additional information and factors that the Board finds relevant. If the Board accepts a director’s resignation offer pursuant to this process, the Governance Committee will recommend to the Board and the Board will thereafter determine whether to fill such vacancy or reduce the size of the Board. Any director who tenders their resignation pursuant to this provision will not participate in the proceedings of either the Governance Committee or the Board with respect to their own resignation offer. If a director’s resignation is not accepted by the Board, the director shall continue to serve until the next annual meeting of shareholders or until their successor is duly elected and qualified, or their earlier resignation or removal.

Diversity

The Company’s Corporate Governance Guidelines provide the Board should include individuals with a diverse range of experiences to give the Board depth and breadth in the mix of skills represented. The Board seeks to include diversity in professional experience, skills, industry background, race/ethnicity, national origin, and gender, as well as the ability of directors (and candidates for director) to devote sufficient time to performing their duties in an effective manner.

Number of Board of Directors

Our Bylaws require the Board to have not less than five nor more than nine members. The size of the Board may be increased or decreased within that range from time-to-time by resolution approved by the affirmative vote of a majority of the Board. On February 22, 2024, the Board increased the size of the Board from six members to seven members due to the addition of one new director.

Board’s Role in Oversight of Strategy and Risk Management

Our Board is engaged and involved in overseeing our strategy and takes an active role in risk oversight. The Governance Committee is responsible for overseeing corporate governance and ESG risks and opportunities. In addition, the HSET Committee supports the furtherance of Hecla’s commitment to adopt best practices in mining operations, promote a healthy and safe work environment and advance environmentally sound and socially responsible resource development. The Board:

oversees the strategic direction of the Company, and in doing so considers the potential rewards and risks of our business opportunities and challenges and monitors the development and management of risks that impact our strategic goals.goals;

The Board as a whole is responsible for risk oversight at the Company, with reviews of certain areas conducted by the relevant Board committees that regularly report to the full Board.Board; and

 

2022 Proxy Statement    13


Corporate Governance

Inin its risk oversight role, the Board reviews, evaluates, and discusses with appropriate members of management whether the risk management processes designed and implemented by management are adequate in identifying, assessing, managing, and mitigating material risks facing the Company, including financial, operational, social, and environmental risks.

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The Board believes that full and open communication between senior management and the directors is essential to effective risk oversight. Our Chairman2024 Proxy Statement | 17

The Board believes that full and open communication between senior management and the directors is essential to effective risk oversight. Our Board Chair regularly meets with our CEO on a variety of matters, including business strategies, opportunities, key challenges, and risks facing the Company, as well as management’s risk mitigation strategies. Senior management attends all regularly scheduled Board meetings where they conduct presentations on various matters involving our operations and are available to address any questions or concerns raised by the Board on risk management-related or other matters. Following consideration of the information presented by management, the Board provides feedback and makes recommendations, as needed, which is designed to help minimize the Company’s risk exposure. To the extent any risks identified by each standing committee of the Board are material or otherwise merit discussion by the whole Board, the respective committee chair will raise such risks at the next scheduled meeting of the Board, or sooner if merited.

For the foregoing reasons, we have determined that our risk oversight is appropriate in the context of our specific circumstances, risk management efforts, and the Board’s administration of its oversight function. The chart below provides an overview of the allocation of risk management responsibilities among the Board committees.

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18 | 2024 Proxy Statement

LOGO

Audit

Committee

   Reviews and discusses with management, our internal auditor and our independent registered public accounting firm, the Company’s major financial risk exposures and the steps management has taken to monitor and control such exposures, including the Company’s risk assessment and risk management policies.

   Oversees the effectiveness of the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting, and the Company’s compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

   Meets quarterly with internal auditor and independent registered public accounting firm in executive sessions without management present.

   Discusses with the independent registered public accounting firm and internal auditor the results of their processes to assess risk in the context of our specific circumstances, risktheir respective audit engagements.

Compensation Committee

   Assesses the Company’s compensation arrangements to determine if they create undesired or unintentional risks of a material nature.

   Oversees, in consultation with management, efforts,the Company’s compliance with regulations governing executive and director compensation.

   Approves compensation levels and programs for the Board’s administration of itsexecutive officers, including the CEO.

   Provides oversight function. The chart below provides an overview of the allocationCompany’s culture and strategies relating to human capital management.

Governance and Social

Responsibility

Committee

   Oversees management of riskrisks associated with the Company’s environmental and social policies and implementation programs.

   Monitors ESG matters, including environmental, climate, health, safety, sustainability, social (including, but not limited to community relations, Indigenous people relations, and diversity and inclusion), and public policy trends, issues guidance, concerns and risks and other corporate responsibility matters.

   Monitors governance structure, policies, and processes.

   Oversees management responsibilities amongof risks associated with the Company’s Board committees.leadership structure and corporate governance matters.

Health, Safety, Environmental

and Technical Committee

   Oversees operational and other technical risks, reserves, environmental, health and safety compliance, as well as risks relating to public policy initiatives.

   Monitors the implementation and effectiveness of health, safety, environmental and sustainability policies, and systems.

   Oversees strategy and efforts to protect and improve the quality of the environment, including climate change and sustainability policies and programs.

   Monitors efforts to create a culture of continuous improvement related to health, safety, environmental and sustainability practices.

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2024 Proxy Statement | 19

 

14     www.hecla-mining.com

The Charters for each of these committees, can be found at https://www.hecla.com, and then selecting the tab titled “Company” and then selecting “Governance & Ethics.”

Succession Planning

The Compensation Committee is responsible for overseeing the Company’s succession planning process for our CEO and other key senior executives, and annually reviews the Company’s succession plans for all key senior executives with input from the CEO and Senior Vice President – Chief Administrative Officer. The criteria used when assessing the qualifications of potential CEO successors include, among others, strategic vision and leadership, operational experience, financial management, executive officer leadership development, ability to motivate employees, and an ability to develop an effective working relationship with the Board.

Emergency Succession Plan

 


Corporate Governance

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2022 Proxy Statement    15


Corporate Governance

Succession Planning

The Compensation Committee is responsible for overseeing the Company’s succession planning process for our CEO and other key senior executives and annually reviews the Company’s succession plans for all key senior executives with input from the CEO and Sr. Vice President – CAO. The criteria used when assessing the qualifications of potential CEO successors include, among others, strategic vision and leadership, operational experience, financial management, executive officer leadership development, ability to motivate employees, and an ability to develop an effective working relationship with the Board.

Emergency Succession Plan

Our Corporate Governance Guidelines provide that in the event of the death, resignation, removal or incapacitation of the President and CEO, the ChairmanBoard Chair will act as the President and CEO until a successor is duly elected.

They also provide that in the event of the death, resignation, removal or incapacitation of our Chairman,Board Chair, the President and CEO will act as ChairmanBoard Chair until a successor is duly elected.

In the event of an unexpected executive departure, the emergency succession plan allowsprovides for a smooth transfer of responsibilities to an individual who may or may not be permanently appointed to the new role.

In the event of a senior executive’s departure, both internal and external candidates may be considered for permanent appointment to such role.

Long-term Succession Plan

Long-Term Succession Plan

 

The long-term succession plan is intended to develop a pipeline of qualified talent for key roles.

The planning process includes a discussion of internal succession candidates, assessment of relevant skills and planning for professional development where necessary. Multiple internal succession candidates may be identified for an individual role and provided with relevant growth opportunities. The Board gains insight through direct exposure to internal succession candidates from their presentations to the Board, work with individual directors or Board committees, and participation in Board activities.

The Company’s short- and long-term business strategy will be considered when evaluating internal succession candidates and their skills.

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20 | 2024 Proxy Statement

Committees of the Board and Committee Assignments

The Board has six standing committees: Audit; Compensation; Governance; HSET; Executive; and Non-Executive Stock Award. Information regarding these committees is provided below. Except for the Executive Committee and Non-Executive Stock Award Committee, all committees are composed entirely of independent directors. The members of each committee are identified below, along with the number of meetings held in 2023.

LOGO

Current Committee Members

Audit Committee

Primary Responsibilities

LOGO    assist the Board and Committee Assignments

The Board has six standing committees: Audit; Compensation; Governance and Social Responsibility; Health, Safety, Environmental and Technical; Executive; and Non-Executive Stock Award. Information regarding these committees is provided below. Except for the Executive Committee and Non-Executive Stock Award Committee, all committees are composed entirely of independent directors. The members of each committee are identified below, along with the number of meetings held in 2021.fulfilling its oversight responsibilities;

 

16     www.hecla-mining.comLOGO    review the integrity of our financial statements;

 


Corporate GovernanceLOGO    review the independent auditor’s qualifications and independence;

 

  Audit Committee

Meetings in 2021: 6

Primary Responsibilities

•  assist the Board in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities;

•  review the integrity of our financial statements;

•  review the independent auditor’s qualifications and independence;

•  review the performance of our internal auditor and the independent auditor;

•  review our compliance with laws and regulations, including disclosure controls and procedures;

•  review financial risks;

LOGO    review the performance of our internal auditor and the independent auditor;

LOGO    review our compliance with laws and regulations, including disclosure controls and procedures;

LOGO    review financial risks;

LOGO    oversee the performance of the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm and internal audit firm;

•  review the qualifications and independence of the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm; and

•  oversee the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

See Report of the Audit Committee on page 30 for additional information.

2021 Meeting Attendance: 100%

Current Committee Members

Stephen F. Ralbovsky, Chair

George R. Johnson

Catherine J. Boggs

Alice Wong

= Financial Expert

All members of the Audit Committee are financially literate

No members on the Audit Committee serve on the audit committee of any other public companies

Committee consists of four independent directors

  Compensation Committee

Meetings in 2021: 5

Primary Responsibilities

•  discharge the Board’s responsibilities relating to compensation of the Company’s executive officers;

•  approve the design of our compensation program;

•  approve compensation levels and programs for the executive officers, including the CEO;

•  administer the Company’s cash-based and equity- based incentive compensation plans; and

•  administer our stock-based plans.

See The Compensation Committee Process and Role of Management and Human Resources Department on page 38 for more information.

2021 Meeting Attendance: 100%

Current Committee Members

Terry V. Rogers, Chair*

Ted Crumley*

Charles B. Stanley

Catherine J. Boggs

Committee consists of four independent directors

2022 Proxy Statement    17


Corporate Governance

Governance and Social

Responsibility Committee

Meetings in 2021: 4

Primary Responsibilities

•  periodically review our Corporate Governance Guidelines, Code of Conduct, and other corporate procedures to ensure compliance with laws and regulations;

•  review any director candidates, including those nominated or recommended by shareholders;

•  identify individuals qualified to become directors consistent with criteria approved by the Board;

•  recommend to the Board the director nominees for the next annual meeting of shareholders, any special meeting of shareholders, or to fill any vacancy on the Board;

•  review the appropriateness of the size of the Board relative to its various responsibilities;

•  recommend committee assignments and committee chairpersons for the standing committees for consideration by the Board;

•  recommend policies, programs, practices, metrics, performance indicators and progress concerning ESG matters to the Board; and

•  recommend to the Board any action on ESG and related matters that may be required or considered advisable.

See Sustainability and Corporate Governance on pages 3 and 8 for more information.

2021 Meeting Attendance: 100%

Current Committee Members

Catherine J. Boggs, Chair

Stephen F. Ralbovsky

George R. Johnson

Committee consists of three independent directors

Health, Safety, Environmental and Technical Committee

Meetings in 2021: 4

Primary Responsibilities

•  review operational and exploration performance;

•  review operational, reserve, and other technical risks;

•  review and monitor health, safety, and environmental policies;

•  review the implementation and effectiveness of compliance systems;

•  review the effectiveness of health, safety and environmental policies, systems, and monitoring processes;

•  review audit results and updates from management with respect to health, safety, and environmental performance;

•  review emerging health, safety and environmental trends in legislation and proposed regulations affecting the Company;

•  review the technical activities of the Company; and

•  make recommendations to the Board concerning the advisability of proceeding with the exploration, development, acquisition, or divestiture of mineral properties and/or operations.

2021 Meeting Attendance: 100%

Current Committee Members

George R. Johnson, Chair

Terry V. Rogers*

Charles B. Stanley

Alice Wong

Executive Committee

Meetings in 2021: None

Primary Responsibilities

•  empowered with the same authority as the Board in the management of our business, except for certain matters enumerated in our Bylaws and Delaware law, that are specifically reserved to the whole Board.

2021 Meeting Attendance: N/A

Current Committee Members

Phillips S. Baker, Jr., Chair

Ted Crumley*

Terry V. Rogers*

18     www.hecla-mining.com


Corporate Governance

Non-Executive Stock Award Committee

Meetings in 2021: None

Primary Responsibilities

•  empowered with the authority to make awards under the Hecla Mining Company 2010 Stock Incentive Plan to employees of the Company or any of its direct and indirect subsidiaries who are not executive officers of the Company or otherwise subject to the requirements of Section 16 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

2021 Meeting Attendance: N/A

Current Committee Members

Phillips S. Baker, Jr., Chair

*

As previously disclosed, Messrs. Crumley and Rogers will retire as directors effective as of the date of our Annual Meeting.

Board and Committee Independence; Audit Committee Financial Expert

Our Corporate Governance Guidelines provide that the Board will have a majority of directors who meet the criteria for independence as defined in the NYSE rules. Based on information solicited from each director, and upon the advice and recommendation of the Governance Committee, our Board annually determines the independence of each of our directors in connection with the nomination process. Further, in connection with the appointment of any new director to the Board during the year, our Board makes the same determination. In making its recommendation to the Board, the Governance Committee, with assistance from the Company’s Corporate Secretary, evaluates responses to a questionnaire completed by each director regarding relationships and possible conflicts of interest between such director, the Company, management, the independent registered public accounting firm and internal auditor;

LOGO    review the internal audit firm. In its reviewqualifications and independence of director independence, the Governance Committee considers the commercial, industrial, banking, consulting, legal, accounting, charitable, and familial relationships any director may have with the Company, management, theCompany’s independent registered public accounting firm,firm; and

LOGO    oversee the internal audit firm.

Our Board has affirmatively determined that all current directors (other than Mr. Baker) have no material relationship with the Company and are independent according to the NYSE listing standards. The Board also has determined that eacheffectiveness of the members of the Audit, Compensation, and Governance Committees have no material relationship with the Company and satisfies the independence criteria (including the enhanced qualifications with respect toCompany’s internal control over financial reporting.

All members of the Audit Committee and Compensation Committee) set forth inare financially literate.

No members on the applicable NYSE listing standards and SEC rules. In addition,Audit Committee serve on the Board has determined that Mr. Stephen F. Ralbovsky qualifies as an “Audit Committee financial expert,” as such term is defined by the rulesaudit committee of any other public companies.

All members of the SEC.Audit Committee are independent.

Directors are expected

See Report of the Audit Committee on page 36 for additional information.

LOGOLOGO

Stephen F.

Ralbovsky, Chair

Charles B.

Stanley 

LOGOLOGO
Catherine J. Boggs

Alice

Wong

  = Financial Expert

Meetings in 2023

8

2023 Meeting Attendance

100%

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2024 Proxy Statement | 21

LOGO

Current Committee Members

Compensation Committee

Primary Responsibilities

LOGO    discharge the Board’s responsibilities relating to immediately informcompensation of the BoardCompany’s executive officers;

LOGO    approve the design of any material change in their circumstances or relationships that may impact their independence.our compensation program;

LOGO    approve compensation levels and programs for the executive officers, including the CEO;

LOGO    administer the Company’s cash-based and equity-based incentive compensation plans; and

LOGO    administer our stock-based plans.

All members of the Compensation Committee Proceduresare independent.

SeeThe Compensation Committee hasProcess and the sole authorityRole of Management and Human Resources Department on page45for more information.

LOGOLOGO

Charles B.

Stanley, Chair

George R. Johnson
LOGO
Catherine J. Boggs

Meetings in 2023

5

2023 Meeting Attendance

100%

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22 | 2024 Proxy Statement

LOGO

Current Committee Members

Governance and Social Responsibility Committee

Primary Responsibilities

LOGO    periodically review our Corporate Governance Guidelines, Code of Conduct, and other corporate procedures to set compensationensure compliance with laws and regulations;

LOGO    review any director candidates, including those nominated or recommended by shareholders;

LOGO    identify individuals qualified to become directors consistent with criteria approved by the Board;

LOGO    recommend to the Board the director nominees for our executive officers, includingthe next annual compensation amountsmeeting of shareholders, any special meeting of shareholders, or to fill any vacancy on the Board;

LOGO    review the appropriateness of the size of the Board relative to its various responsibilities;

LOGO    recommend committee assignments and Short-term Incentive Plancommittee chairs for the standing committees for consideration by the Board;

LOGO    recommend policies, programs, practices, metrics, performance indicators and Long-term Incentive Plan criteria, evaluateprogress concerning ESG matters to the performance of our executive officers,Board; and make awards to our executive officers under our stock incentive plans. The Compensation Committee also reviews, approves, and recommends

LOGO    recommend to the Board any action on ESG and related matters that may be required or considered advisable.

All members of the Governance and Social Responsibility Committee are independent.

See Sustainability and Corporate Governance on pages5and10for more information.

LOGOLOGO

Alice Wong,

Chair

Stephen F. Ralbovsky
LOGO
Catherine J. Boggs

Meetings in 2023

3

2023 Meeting Attendance

100%

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2024 Proxy Statement | 23

LOGO

Current Committee Members

Health, Safety, Environmental and Technical Committee

Primary Responsibilities

LOGO    review operational and exploration performance;

LOGO    review operational, reserve, and other technical risks;

LOGO    review and monitor health, safety, and environmental policies;

LOGO    review the implementation and effectiveness of compliance systems;

LOGO    review the effectiveness of health, safety and environmental policies, systems, and monitoring processes;

LOGO    review audit results and updates from management with respect to health, safety, and environmental performance;

LOGO    review emerging health, safety and environmental trends in legislation and proposed plan or arrangement providing for incentive, retirement or other compensation to our executive officersregulations affecting the Company;

LOGO    review the technical activities of the Company; and oversees our assessment of whether our compensation practices are likely to expose the Company to material risks. In addition, the Compensation Committee annually recommends to the Board the slate of officers for the Company, periodically reviews the functions of our officers, and makes

LOGO    make recommendations to the Board concerning those functions.the advisability of proceeding with the exploration, development, acquisition, or divestiture of mineral properties and/or operations.

2021

LOGOLOGO
George R. Johnson, ChairStephen F. Ralbovsky
LOGOLOGO

Charles B.

Stanley

Alice

Wong

LOGO
Mark P. Board

Meetings in 2023

5

2023 Meeting Attendance

100%

LOGO

Current Committee Members

Executive Committee

Primary Responsibilities

LOGO    empowered with the same authority as the Board in the management of our business, except for certain matters enumerated in our Bylaws and AttendanceDelaware law, which are specifically reserved to the whole Board.

During 2021, there were four meetings

LOGOLOGO

Phillips S.

Baker, Jr., Chair

Catherine J.

Boggs

Meetings in 2023

None

2023 Meeting Attendance

N/A

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24 | 2024 Proxy Statement

LOGO

Current Committee Members

Non-Executive Stock Award Committee

Primary Responsibilities

LOGO    empowered with the authority to make awards under the Hecla Mining Company 2010 Stock Incentive Plan to employees of the Board. DirectorsCompany or any of its direct and indirect subsidiaries who are expected to make every effort to attend the Annual Meeting, all Board meetings, and the meetingsnot executive officers of the committees on which they serve. All membersCompany or otherwise subject to the requirements of Section 16 of the Board attended last year’s Annual MeetingSecurities Exchange Act of Shareholders, which was held in May 2021. In 2021, each director attended 100% of the Board meetings and the committee meetings in which they are a member.1934, as amended.

 

2022 Proxy Statement    19

LOGO

Phillips S.

Baker, Jr., Chair

Meetings in 2023


Corporate GovernanceNone

 

Director Orientation and Continuing Education2023 Meeting Attendance

New directors undergo a comprehensive orientation program that introduces them to the Company, including our business operations, strategy, financial position, key members of management and governance structure. Directors also are encouraged to enroll in director education programs. Directors have contact with leaders throughout the organization and visit our mine sites, where they tour the facilities and interact directly with the personnel responsible for our day-to-day operations. These activities collectively help to ensure that new directors become, and existing directors remain, knowledgeable about the most important issues affecting our Company and our business.N/A

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2024 Proxy Statement | 25

Board and Committee Self-Evaluation Process

Board and Committee Independence; Audit Committee Financial Expert

Our Corporate Governance Guidelines provide that the Board will have a majority of directors who meet the criteria for independence as defined in the NYSE rules. Based on information solicited from each director, and upon the advice and recommendation of the Governance Committee, our Board annually determines the independence of each of our directors in connection with the nomination process. Further, in connection with the appointment of any new director to the Board during the year, our Board makes the same determination. In making its recommendation to the Board, the Governance Committee, with assistance from the Company’s Corporate Secretary, evaluates responses to a questionnaire completed by each director regarding relationships and possible conflicts of interest between such director, the Company, management, the independent registered public accounting firm, and the internal audit firm. In its review of director independence, the Governance Committee considers the commercial, industrial, banking, consulting, legal, accounting, charitable, and familial relationships any director may have with the Company, management, the independent registered public accounting firm, and the internal auditor.

Our Board has affirmatively determined that all current directors (other than Mr. Baker) have no material relationship with the Company and are independent according to the NYSE listing standards. The Board has determined that each member of the Audit, Compensation, and Governance Committees has no material relationship with the Company and they each satisfy the independence criteria (including the enhanced qualifications with respect to members of the Audit Committee and Compensation Committee) set forth in the applicable NYSE listing standards and SEC rules. In addition, the Board has determined that Messrs. Stephen F. Ralbovsky and Charles B. Stanley qualify as “Audit Committee Financial Experts,” as such term is defined by the rules of the SEC.

Directors are expected to immediately inform the Board of any material change in their circumstances or relationships that may impact their independence.

Compensation Committee Procedures

The Compensation Committee has the sole authority to set compensation for our executive officers, including annual compensation amounts and Short-term Incentive Plan and Long-term Incentive Plan criteria, evaluate the performance of our executive officers, and make awards to our executive officers under our stock incentive plans. The Compensation Committee also reviews and approves any proposed plan or arrangement providing for incentive, retirement or other compensation to our executive officers and oversees our assessment of whether our compensation practices are likely to expose the Company to material risks. In addition, the Compensation Committee annually recommends to the Board the slate of officers for the Company, periodically reviews the functions of our officers, and makes recommendations to the Board concerning those functions.

2023 Board Meetings and Attendance

Directors are expected to make every effort to attend the Annual Meeting, all Board meetings, and the meetings of the committees on which they serve. During 2023, there were six meetings of the Board. In 2023, each director attended 100% of the Board meetings and the committee meetings in which they are a member. All members of the Board attended last year’s Annual Meeting of Shareholders, which was held in May 2023.

Director Orientation and Continuing Education

New directors typically undergo a comprehensive orientation program that introduces them to the Company, including our business operations, strategy, financial position, key members of management and governance structure. Directors also are encouraged to enroll in director education programs. Directors have contact with leaders throughout the organization and visit our mine sites, where they tour the facilities and interact directly with the personnel responsible for our day-to-day operations. These activities collectively help to ensure that new directors become, and existing directors remain, knowledgeable about the most important issues affecting our Company and our business.

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26 | 2024 Proxy Statement

Our Board recognizes that a thorough, constructive evaluation process enhances our

Board and Committee Self-Evaluation Process

Our Board recognizes that a thorough, constructive evaluation process enhances the Board’s effectiveness and is an essential element of good corporate governance. Accordingly, every year, our Board and each committee of the Board conducts a self-evaluation of its performance and effectiveness. The Governance Committee oversees the annual self-evaluation process on behalf of the Board. The Governance Committee oversees the annual self-evaluation process on behalf of the Board. Our Board and committee evaluations cover the following topics:

 

Board and committee composition, including skills, background, and experience;

Review
review of key areas of focus for the Board and committees, and effectiveness in overseeing those responsibilities;

Satisfaction
satisfaction of director performance, including that of the Board chair;Chair;

Board and committee information needs, and quality of materials presented;

Areas
areas where the Board should increase its focus;

Satisfaction
satisfaction with the Board and committee schedules, agendas, time allocated for topics and encouragement of open communication and discussion;

Access
access to management, experts, and internal and external resources;

Oversight
oversight of financial reporting process and internal control procedures;

Ethics
ethics and compliance;

Company’s strategic direction and annual operating plan;

Succession
succession planning;

Selection
selection and evaluation process of Board candidates; and

Understanding
understanding risks.

Evaluation Process

Evaluation Process

 

   
1 Corporate
Governance Review
 LOGO 2 Annual Board and
Committee
Evaluations
  LOGO  3 Summary of
Evaluations
  LOGO  4 

Board and

Committee Review

 

Our self-evaluation process is conducted on an anonymous basis, using our board portal. We have found by using an anonymous evaluation process, the Board and committee members have a level of comfort in being able to critique the Board and/or the committees. The Board and each committee conduct annual self-evaluations through the use of electronic questionnaires that cover the topics discussed above. Hecla’s Corporate Secretary uses our board portal to generate a summarized report of our directors’ anonymous responses to the electronic questionnaires and submits the report to the appropriate chair of each committee of the Board for review before the next quarterly Board and/or committee meeting. Using the summaries of the self-evaluations as guides, our chair of the Governance Committee reviews the results of the Board evaluation, and each committee chair reviews the results of each committee evaluation. The self-evaluations and summaries are shared and discussed with the full Board and each committee. The objective is to allow the Board and each committee to share their perspectives and consider any necessary adjustments in response to the collective feedback from the self-evaluations.
LOGO

 

20     www.hecla-mining.comLOGO


Corporate GovernanceINFORMATION GATHERING

 

Director Candidates SubmittedOur self-evaluation process is conducted on an anonymous basis, using our board portal. We have found by Shareholders

Our Bylaws establish procedures governingusing an anonymous evaluation process, the eligibility of nominees for election to our Board and committee members have a level of comfort in being able to critique the proposalBoard and/or the committees.

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ANNUAL BOARD AND COMMITTEE EVALUATIONS

The Board and each committee conduct annual self-evaluations through the use of business to be considered by our shareholders at an annual meeting of shareholders. For nominations or other business to be properly brought before an annual meeting of shareholders by a shareholder,electronic questionnaires in the shareholder must have given timely notice thereof in writing to our Corporate Secretary. To be timely, a shareholder’s notice must be delivered to ourboard portal that cover the topics discussed above.

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SUMMARY OF EVALUATIONS

Hecla’s Corporate Secretary atuses our principal executive offices located at 6500 N. Mineral Drive, Suite 200, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho 83815-9408, board portal to generate a summarized report of our directors’ anonymous responses to the electronic questionnaires and submits the report to the appropriate chair of each committee of the Board for review before the next quarterly Board and/or committee meeting.

LOGO

BOARD AND COMMITTEE REVIEW

Using the summaries of the self-evaluations as guides, our chair of the Governance Committee reviews the results of the Board evaluation, and each committee chair reviews the results of each committee evaluation. The self-evaluations and summaries are shared and discussed with the full Board and each committee. The objective is to allow the Board and each committee to share their perspectives and consider any necessary adjustments in response to the collective feedback from the self-evaluations.

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2024 Proxy Statement | 27

Shareholder Proposals for the 2025 Annual Shareholders’ Meeting

Our Bylaws establish procedures governing the nomination and eligibility of nominees for election to our Board, and the proposal of business to be considered by our shareholders at an annual meeting of shareholders. For nominations or other business to be properly brought before an annual meeting of shareholders by a shareholder, the shareholder must have given timely notice thereof in writing to our Corporate Secretary. To be timely, a shareholder’s notice must be delivered to our:

Corporate Secretary

6500 N. Mineral Drive, Suite 200

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho 83815-9408

not less than 90 days nor more than 120 days prior to the first anniversary of the preceding year’s annual meeting of shareholders; provided, however, that in the event the date of the annual meeting of shareholders is advanced by more than 30 days or delayed by more than 60 days from such anniversary date, notice by the shareholder to be timely must be delivered not earlier than the 120th day prior to such annual meeting of shareholders and not later than the close of business on the later of the 90th day prior to such annual meeting of shareholders or the 10th day following the day on which public announcement of the date of such meeting is first made. Adjournment of a meeting shall not commence a new time period for giving shareholder’s notice as described above. Such shareholder’s notice must set forth:

(a)

As to each person whom the shareholder proposes to nominate for election or re-election as a director, all information relating to such person that is required to be disclosed in solicitations of proxies for election of directors in an election contest, or is otherwise required, in each case pursuant to Regulation 14A under the Exchange Act and Rule 14a-11 thereunder, including such person’s written consent to being named in our Proxy Statement as a nominee and to serve as a director if elected;

(b)

As to any other business that the shareholder proposes to bring before the meeting, if the shareholder has not otherwise complied with the rules and regulations under the Exchange Act for the inclusion of a shareholder proposal in our Proxy Statement, a brief description of the business desired to be brought before the meeting, the reasons for conducting such business at the meeting, and any material interest in such business of such shareholder and the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the proposal is made; and

(c)

As to the shareholder giving the notice and the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the nomination or proposal is made:include the information specified in our Bylaws.

 

the deadline for providing notice to the Company under Rule 14a-19, the SEC’s universal proxy rule, of a shareholder’s intent to solicit proxies in support of nominees submitted under the Company’s advance notice Bylaws is March 18, 2025.

 (i)

the name and address of such shareholder, as they appear on the Company’s books, and of such beneficial owner; and

(ii)

the class and number of Company shares which are owned beneficially and of record by such shareholder or beneficial owner.

The applicable time period for timely shareholder submissions pursuant to the above provisions for the 20232025 Annual Meeting of Shareholders is January 26, 202317, 2025 (the 120th day preceding the anniversary of the 20222024 Annual Meeting) to February 25, 202316, 2025 (the 90th day preceding such anniversary).

In addition to satisfying the foregoing requirements under our Bylaws, to comply with the SEC’s new universal proxy rule (once effective), any shareholder who intends to solicit proxies in support of director nominees other than the Company’s nominees, must provide notice that sets forth the information required by Rules 14a-19 under the Exchange Act no later than March 28, 2023.

The chairman of the meeting

The Board Chair shall have the power and duty to determine whether a nomination or any business proposed to be brought before the meeting was made in accordance with the procedures set forth in the Bylaws and, if any proposed nomination or business is not in compliance with the Bylaws, to declare that such defective proposal shall be disregarded. The foregoing time limits also apply in determining whether notice is timely for purposes of rules adopted by the SEC relating to the exercise of discretionary voting authority.

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PROPOSAL 1

Election Of Class II Directors

LOGO

In accordance with our Restated Certificate of Incorporation, the Board is divided into three classes. The terms of office of the directors in each class expire at separate times. There are three Class II directors whose terms will expire at the Annual Meeting: Stephen F. Ralbovsky, Catherine J. Boggs, and Mark P. Board.

At a meeting held by the Governance Committee in February 2024, the committee determined the directors whose terms are expiring – Mr. Ralbovsky, Ms. Boggs, and Mr. Board – were qualified candidates to stand for re-election at the Annual Meeting, and the Board designated each as nominees for re-election as directors of the Company, each for a three-year term expiring in 2027.

At the same February 2024 meeting, the size of the Board was increased from six persons to seven persons, and upon the recommendation of the Governance Committee, the Board appointed Mark P. Board as a Class II director (standing for election in 2024). Mr. Board is a mining and geotechnical engineer with over 45 years of mining experience. He is currently President of M Board Mining Consulting, LLC and provides engineering consulting services to the international mining industry. Until retirement in 2020, he was Vice President – Technical Services for Hecla Limited, a subsidiary of the Company. Prior to that, he acted as a consulting engineer for Itasca Consulting Group where he provided mine evaluation, mine design and stability assessments for underground and open pit mines worldwide. The Governance Committee and Board determined that Mr. Board was independent under the NYSE listing standards. The Board appointed Mr. Board to serve on the HSET Committee.

It is intended that the proxies solicited hereby from our shareholders that do not provide voting instructions will be voted FOR the election of Stephen F. Ralbovsky, Catherine J. Boggs, and Mark P. Board. If Mr. Ralbovsky, Ms. Boggs, or Mr. Board becomes unable or is unwilling to accept election, the Board will either reduce the number of directors to be elected or select substitute nominees submitted by the Governance Committee. If substitute nominees are selected, proxies that do not provide voting instructions will be voted in favor of such nominees.

Biographical Information

Set forth below is biographical information for the director nominees, including the key qualifications, experience, attributes, and skills that led our Board to the conclusion that such nominees should serve as a director. There are no family relationships among any of our directors or executive officers.

Our Board includes individuals with strong backgrounds in senior leadership and management, legal, geology, accounting, finance, and company and industry knowledge, and we believe that, as a group, they work effectively together in overseeing our business.

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2024 Proxy Statement | 29

Current Class II Nominees for Election to the Board – Terms Ending at the 2024 Annual Meeting

If elected, the nominees will serve for a three-year term ending in 2027. The nominees are as follows:

LOGO

Stephen F. Ralbovsky

Founder and Principal of Wolf Sky Consulting LLC

Mr. Ralbovsky has been the Founder and Principal of Wolf Sky Consulting LLC since June 2014. Prior to that, he was a partner with PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP from February 1987 until his retirement in June 2014, where he concentrated his practice on public companies operating in the Bylawsmining industry. He is a part-time Professor of Practice at the University of Arizona’s James E. Rogers College of Law. Mr. Ralbovsky is also a member of several organizations, including the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, Arizona Society of CPAs, National Mining Association, and if any proposed nomination or business is not in compliance with the Bylaws, to declare that such defective proposal shall be disregarded. The foregoing time limits also apply in determining whether notice is timelySociety for purposes of rules adopted by the SEC relating to the exercise of discretionary voting authority.Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration.

 

2022 Proxy Statement    21Board Qualification and Skills


PROPOSAL 1Mr. Ralbovsky is a CPA and has over 40 years’ experience in taxation, auditing, and accounting, where he was specifically heavily involved in the mining industry with an emphasis in global mining tax and royalty policy. He has held leadership positions, including U.S. Mining Leader, U.S. Mining Tax Leader, Global Mining Tax Leader, and Tax Partner while employed with PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.

 

ELECTION OF CLASS III DIRECTORSHecla Committees

LOGO    Audit (Chair)

LOGO    Governance and Social Responsibility

LOGO    Health, Safety, Environmental and Technical

Age

70

Director since

2016

Other Directorships:

None

 

 

In accordance

LOGO

LOGO

Catherine “Cassie” J. Boggs

Former General Counsel at Resource Capital Funds

Ms. Boggs served as the General Counsel at Resource Capital Funds from January 2011 until her retirement in February 2019. Since 2019, she has been serving as an Intermittent Expert in mining with our Restated Certificatethe US Department of Incorporation,Commerce’s Commercial Law Development Program. She was a board member of Funzeleo from January 2016 to September 2021, as well as briefly serving on the board of U.S. Energy Corp. from June 2019 to December 2019. She has served as a board member of Capital Limited since September 2021, and is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Denver, Sturm College of Law.

Board is divided into three classes. The termsQualification and Skills

Ms. Boggs has over 40+ years’ experience as an attorney in the mining and natural resources sectors, in both domestic and international mining. She has extensive experience in leadership in the mining industry, having worked for Barrick Gold Company, serving in a variety of officeleadership roles, including serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Tethyan Copper Company, interim President of the directorsAfrican Business Unit, and as interim General Counsel of African Barrick Gold. She also has experience in each class expire at different times. There are three Class III directors whose terms will expire at the Annual Meeting: Ted Crumley, Terry V. Rogers,due diligence, country and Charles B. Stanley. Messrs. Crumley and Rogers have reached the mandatory retirement age and will not stand for re-election.

The respective retirements of Messrs. Crumley and Rogers otherwise would cause an imbalance in the number of directors in the Board’s three classes of directors. The Company’s Bylaws and Restated Certificate of Incorporation provide that the number of directors in each class of directors shall be as nearly equal in number as possible. In order to maintain balance among the classes, Alice Wong also will stand for election at the Annual Meeting as a Class III director, together with Mr. Stanley, each with a term to expire at the 2025 annual meeting of shareholders.

The Governance Committee determined that each of Ms. Wong and Mr. Stanley are qualified candidates to stand for election at the Annual Meeting,political risk assessments, and the structuring and implementation of risk mitigation strategies.

Hecla Committees

LOGO    Governance and Social Responsibility

LOGO    Audit

LOGO    Compensation

LOGO    Executive

Age

69

Director since

2017

Other Directorships:

Capital Limited

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30 | 2024 Proxy Statement

Proposal 1 — Election of Class II Directors

LOGO

Mark P. Board

President of M Board designated themMining Consulting, LLC

Mr. Board has been President of M Board Mining Consulting, LLC since 2020, where he provides engineering consulting services to the international mining industry. He served as Vice President – Innovation and Technical Services for election as directorsHecla Limited, a subsidiary of the Company, from June 2014 until his retirement in June 2020. Prior to that, he acted as a consulting engineer for three-year terms expiringItasca Consulting Group where he provided mine evaluation, mine design and stability assessments for underground and open pit mines worldwide.

Board Qualification and Skills

Mr. Board has over 45 years of experience as a mining and geotechnical engineer. His particular specialty is design of deep underground mines and caving operations. He holds a PhD in 2025.Geological Engineering from the University of Minnesota and is an elected Member of the US National Academy of Engineering.

It is intended

Hecla Committees

LOGO    Health, Safety, Environmental and Technical

Age

71

Director since

2024

Other Directorships:

None

Required Vote

Pursuant to our Bylaws, each director will be elected by the affirmative vote of a majority of votes cast at the Annual Meeting, whether in person or by proxy. See What Votes are Required for the Proposals on page 95.

You may vote “FOR,” “AGAINST,” OR “ABSTAIN” on the nominees for election as directors.

LOGOLOGO

The Board recommends that the proxies solicited hereby from our shareholders that do not provide voting instructions will be voted FORvote “FOR” the election of Stephen F. Ralbovsky, Catherine J. Boggs, and Mark P. Board.

Our directors whose terms are not expiring this year follow. They will continue to serve as directors for the remainder of their terms or until their respective successors are appointed or elected.

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2024 Proxy Statement | 31

Continuing Class III Members of the Board – Term Ending at the 2025 Annual Meeting

LOGO

Charles B. Stanley and Alice Wong. If Mr. Stanley or Ms. Wong becomes unable or is unwilling to accept election, the Board will either reduce the number of directors to be elected or select substitute nominees submitted by the Governance Committee. If substitute nominees are selected, proxies that do not provide voting instructions will be voted in favor of such nominees.

Biographical Information

Set forth below is biographical information for the director nominees, including the key qualifications, experience, attributes, and skills that led our Board to the conclusion that such director nominees should serve as a director. There are no family relationships among any of our directors or executive officers.

Our Board includes individuals with strong backgrounds in executive leadership and management, legal, accounting, finance, and company and industry knowledge, and we believe that, as a group, they work effectively together in overseeing our business.

 

22     www.hecla-mining.com


Proposal 1 — ElectionManaging Member of Class III DirectorsCutthroat Energy, LLC

 

Current Class III Nominees for ElectionMr. Stanley has been the Managing Member of Cutthroat Energy, LLC since May 2019. Prior to that, Mr. Stanley served as Chief Executive Officer and President of QEP Resources, Inc. from May 2010 until his retirement in January 2019. He was also Chair of the Board – Terms Ending at the 2022 Annual Meeting

If elected, the nominees will serve for a three-year term endingof QEP Resources, Inc. from May 2012 until his retirement in 2025. The nominees are as follows:January 2019.

 

LOGO

Charles B. Stanley
Managing Member of Cutthroat Energy, LLC

Age: 63

Director since: 2007

Other Directorships: None

Hecla Committees:

•  Health, Safety, Environmental and Technical

•  Compensation

Mr. Stanley has been the Managing Member of Cutthroat Energy, LLC since 2019. Prior to that, Mr. Stanley was Chief Executive Officer and President of QEP Resources, Inc. from 2010 until his retirement in 2019. He was also Chairman of QEP’s Board of Directors from 2012 until his retirement in 2019.

Board Qualification and Skills: Mr. Stanley has over 35 years’ experience in the international and domestic upstream and midstream oil and gas industry. He is a geologist with an extensive background in natural resources. He gained his extensive financial experience from a long

Board Qualification and Skills

Mr. Stanley has over 41 years’ experience in the international and domestic upstream and midstream oil and gas industry. He is a geologist with an extensive background in natural resources. He gained his extensive financial experience from a lengthy career with QEP Resources, Inc., and prior companies. In addition to his former position at QEP Resources, Inc., Mr. Stanley served in numerous other senior leadership positions, including Chief Executive Officer and President of QEP Midstream Partners, LP, and Chief Operating Officer of Questar Corporation. He served on the board of QEP Resources, Inc. for 8 years and as Chairman of the Board from 2012 until his retirement in 2019. Prior to serving on QEP’s board, Mr. Stanley served on the board of Questar Corporation for 8 years and has served on the boards of various oil and gas industry trade organizations.

LOGO

Alice Wong, ICD.D
Senior Vice President and Chief Corporate Officer Cameco Corporation

Age: 62

Director since: 2021

Other Directorships: SaskEnergy Incorporated

Hecla Committees:

•  Audit

•  Health, Safety, Environmental and Technical

Ms. Wong has served as Senior Vice President and Chief Corporate Officer of Cameco Corporation since 2011. She was Cameco’s Vice President of Safety, Health, Environment, Quality and Regulatory Relations from 2008 to 2011, and Vice President of Investor, Corporate and Government Relations from 2005 to 2008. She has been a Board member of SaskEnergy Incorporated since December 2016, as well as a member of the Mining Association of Canada since June 2016, Canadian Nuclear Association since January 2013, and Saskatchewan Mining Association since January 2013. In 2021, Ms. Wong was named a Catalyst Honours Champion in recognition of her significant contributions to advancing women and championing inclusion in the workplace and being a role model for inclusive leadership in corporate Canada.

Board Qualification and Skills: Ms. Wong has been with Cameco for more than 30 years in increasingly senior leadership roles and has gained a wealth of experience from her diverse responsibilities. In her current role as Senior Vice President and Chief Corporate Officer, she provides executive oversight for human resources, safety, health, environment, quality, regulatory relations, business technology services, supply chain management, internal audit, and corporate ethics. She obtained her Corporate Directors Designation (ICD.D) from the ICD Rotman Director’s Education Program.

Required Vote

Pursuant to our Bylaws, each director will be elected by the affirmative vote of a majority of votes cast at the Annual Meeting, whether in person or by proxy. See What Votes are Required for the Proposals on page 81.

You may vote “FOR,” “AGAINST,” OR “ABSTAIN” on the nomineesboard of QEP Resources, Inc. for election8 years and as directors.Chair of the Board from 2012 until his retirement in 2019. Prior to serving on QEP’s board, Mr. Stanley served on the board of Questar Corporation for 8 years and has served on the boards of various oil and gas industry trade organizations.

 

  LOGO   

Hecla Committees

LOGO    Compensation (Chair)

LOGO    Audit

LOGO    Health, Safety, Environmental and Technical

Age

65

Director since

2007

Other Directorships:

None

 

 

The Board recommends that shareholders vote “FOR” the election of Charles B. Stanley and Alice Wong.

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2022 Proxy Statement    23


Proposal 1 — Election of Class III DirectorsAlice Wong, ICD.D

 

Our directors whose terms are not expiring this year follow. They will continueSenior Vice President and Chief Corporate Officer Cameco Corporation

Ms. Wong has served as Senior Vice President and Chief Corporate Officer of Cameco Corporation since 2011. She was Cameco’s Vice President of Safety, Health, Environment, Quality and Regulatory Relations from 2008 to serve2011, and Vice President of Investor, Corporate and Government Relations from 2005 to 2008. She has been a board member of the following organizations: Mining Association of Canada since 2016, Canadian Nuclear Association since 2013, and Saskatchewan Mining Association since 2013. She served on the Board of Sask Energy Corporation from 2016 to 2023. In 2021, Ms. Wong was named a Catalyst Honours Champion in recognition of her significant contributions to advancing women and championing inclusion in the workplace and being a role model for inclusive leadership in corporate Canada.

Board Qualification and Skills

Ms. Wong has been with Cameco for more than 31 years in increasingly senior leadership roles and has gained a wealth of experience from her diverse responsibilities. In her current role as directorsSenior Vice President and Chief Corporate Officer, she provides executive oversight for human resources, safety, health, environment, quality, regulatory relations, business technology services, supply chain management, internal audit, and corporate ethics. She also has experience in digital transformation as well as oversight of IT and cyber risk management. She obtained her Corporate Directors Designation (ICD.D) from the remainder of their terms or until their respective successors are appointed or elected.ICD Rotman Director’s Education Program.

Hecla Committees

LOGO    Governance and Social Responsibility (Chair)

LOGO    Audit

LOGO    Health, Safety, Environmental and Technical

Age

64

Director since

2021

Other Directorships:

None

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32 | 2024 Proxy Statement

Continuing Class I Members of the Board – Term Ending at the 2026 Annual Meeting

LOGO

Phillips S. Baker, Jr.

President and CEO

Mr. Baker has been our CEO since May 2003 and has served as our President and as a member of the Board – Term Ending atof Directors since November 2001. He was elected the 2023 Annual MeetingChair of The Silver Institute in August 2023. Mr. Baker served as Chair of the Board for the National Mining Association from 2017 to 2020 and has been a Board member since September 2010. He served as a Director of QEP Resources, Inc. from May 2010 to March 2021.

 

Board Qualification and Skills

Mr. Baker began his career in the mining industry in 1986 and has been an officer or director of many public companies since 1990. He has substantial financial experience gained in his roles of President, CEO, and previously as Chief Financial Officer of the Company. He has served as Hecla’s President for 22 years and as CEO for 21 years and has 27 years of executive and management experience in the mining industry. In addition to serving on the Board of Hecla, he served on the Board of QEP Resources, Inc. for 10 years, as well as serving as the chair of the audit committee and as a member of the governance committee.

Hecla Committees

LOGO    Executive (Chair)

LOGO    Non-Executive Stock Award Committee

Age

64

Director since

2001

Other Directorships:

None

 

LOGO

Phillips S. Baker, Jr.
President and Chief Executive Officer

Age: 62

Director since: 2001

Other Directorships: None

Hecla Committees:

•  Executive (Chair)

•  Non-Executive Stock Award Committee

Mr. Baker has been our Chief Executive Officer since May 2003 and has served as our President since November 2001. Mr. Baker served as Chairman of the Board for the National Mining Association from October 2017 to October 2020, and has been a Board member since September 2010. He served as a Director of QEP Resources, Inc. from May 2010 to March 2021.

Board Qualification and Skills: Mr. Baker has substantial financial experience gained in his roles of President, Chief Executive Officer, and previously as Chief Financial Officer of the Company. He has served as Hecla’s President for 19 years and as Chief Executive Officer for 17 years and has 25 years of executive and management experience in the mining industry. In addition to serving on the Board of Hecla, he served on the Board of QEP Resources, Inc. for 10 years, as well as serving as the chair of the audit committee and as a member of the governance committee for QEP.

LOGO

George R. Johnson
Former Senior Vice President of Operations with B2Gold Corporation

Age: 73

Director since: 2016

Other Directorships: B2Gold Corporation

Hecla Committees:

•  Health, Safety, Environmental and Technical (Chair)

•  Audit

•  Governance and Social Responsibility

Mr. Johnson served as Senior Vice President of Operations of B2Gold Corporation from August 2009 until his retirement in April 2015. He has served on the Board of Directors of B2Gold Corporation since March 2016.

Board Qualification and Skills: Mr. Johnson has over 45 years of foreign and domestic experience in underground and open pit mine construction and operations management as a mining engineer.

LOGO

 

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24     www.hecla-mining.com


Proposal 1 — Election of Class III DirectorsGeorge R. Johnson

 

Continuing Class II MembersFormer Senior Vice President of Operations with B2Gold Corporation

Mr. Johnson served as Senior Vice President of Operations of B2Gold Corporation from August 2009 until his retirement in April 2015. He has served on the Board – Term Ending at the 2024 Annual Meetingof Directors of B2Gold Corporation since March 2016.

 

LOGO

Board Qualification and Skills

Mr. Johnson has over 45 years of foreign and domestic experience in underground and open pit mine construction and operations management as a mining engineer.

Hecla Committees

LOGO    Health, Safety, Environmental and Technical (Chair)

LOGO    Compensation

Age

75

Director since

2016

Other Directorships:

B2Gold Corporation

 

 Stephen F. Ralbovsky
Founder and Principal of Wolf Sky Consulting LLC

Age: 68

Director since: 2016

Other Directorships: None

Hecla Committees:

•  Audit (Chair)

•  Governance and Social Responsibility

Mr. Ralbovsky has been the Founder and Principal of Wolf Sky Consulting LLC since June 2014. Prior to that, he was a partner with PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP from February 1987 until his retirement in June 2014, where he concentrated his practice on public companies operating in the mining industry. He is a part-time Professor of Practice at the University of Arizona’s James E. Rogers College of Law. Mr. Ralbovsky is also a member of several organizations, including the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, Arizona Society of CPAs, National Mining Association, and Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration.

Board Qualification and Skills: Mr. Ralbovsky is a CPA and has over 40 years’ experience in taxation, auditing, and accounting, where he was specifically heavily involved in the mining industry with an emphasis in global mining tax and royalty policy. He has held leadership positions, including U.S. Mining Leader, U.S. Mining Tax Leader, Global Mining Tax Leader, and Tax Partner while employed with PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.

 

LOGO

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LOGO

Compensation of Non-Management

Directors

 

Catherine “Cassie” J. Boggs
LOGO
Former General Counsel at Resource Capital Funds

Age: 67

Director since: 2017

Other Directorships: Capital Limited

Hecla Committees:

•  Governance and Social Responsibility (Chair)

•  Audit

•  Compensation

Ms. Boggs served as the General Counsel at Resource Capital Funds from January 2011 until her retirement in February 2019. She has served as a board member of Capital Limited since September 2021, as well as serving as an Intermittent Expert in mining with the US Department of Commerce’s Commercial Law Development Program since November 2019. She was a board member of Funzeleo from January 2016 to September 2021. She served as President of the Rocky Mountain Mineral Law Foundation from July 2012 to July 2013, and a board member of the Rocky Mountain Mineral Law Foundation from July 2011 to July 2015. She is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Denver, Sturm College of Law.

Board Qualification and Skills: Ms. Boggs has over 39 years’ experience as an attorney in the mining and natural resources sectors, in both domestic and international mining. She has extensive experience in leadership in the mining industry, having worked for Barrick Gold Company, serving in a variety of leadership roles, including serving as the CEO of Tethyan Copper Company, interim President of the African Business Unit, and as interim General Counsel of African Barrick Gold. She also has experience in due diligence, country and political risk assessments, and the structuring and implementation of risk mitigation strategies.

2022 Proxy Statement    25


COMPENSATION OF NON-MANAGEMENT DIRECTORS

The Compensation Committee of the Board is responsible for recommending to the independent members of the Board the form and amount of compensation for our non-management directors. The independent members of the Board consider the committee’s recommendation and make the final determination of non-management director compensation.

Compensation for non-management directors is designed to reflect current market trends and developments with respect to compensation of Board members. It consists of a combination of cash retainers and an equity award.

Compensation Consultant and Peer Group Benchmarking

The Compensation Committee periodically engages an independent compensation consultant to benchmark director compensation against a peer group, which is the same group of companies the committee uses to benchmark executive compensation (see page 37 for a list of these companies). In 2021, the committee did not retain an independent compensation consultant to review director compensation. The committee reviewed our non-management director compensation, but no changes were made in 2021.

Components of Non-Management Director Compensation

Compensation Element

  Current
Value
 

Annual Board Retainer

  $98,000 

Annual Board Chair Retainer

  $120,000 

Annual Committee Chair Retainer for:

  

 

 

 

•  Health, Safety, Environmental & Technical Committee

  $12,000 

•  Audit Committee

  $12,000 

•  Compensation Committee

  $12,000 

•  Governance Committee

  $8,000 

•  Executive Committee

  $-- 

•  Non-Executive Stock Award Committee

  $-- 

Annual Equity

  $120,000 

Annual cash retainers are paid in quarterly installments. Other than annual cash retainers and equity, no other attendance fees are paid to the non-management directors.

Equity Compensation

We maintain the Hecla Mining Company Stock Plan for Nonemployee Directors (“Director Stock Plan” or “plan”). The plan is currently scheduled to terminate on May 15, 2027 and is subject to termination by the Board at any time. Pursuant to the plan, before September 30 of each year, each non-management director is credited with a number of shares determined by dividing the annual equity retainer payable to each non-management

The Compensation Committee (committee) of the Board is responsible for recommending to the independent members of the Board the form and amount of compensation for our non-management directors. The independent members of the Board consider the committee’s recommendation and make the final determination of non-management director compensation.

Compensation for non-management directors is designed to reflect current market trends and developments with respect to compensation of Board members. It consists of a combination of cash retainers and an equity award.

Compensation Consultant and Peer Group Benchmarking

In 2023, the committee did not retain an independent compensation consultant to review director compensation. In 2023, the Company’s human resources department analyzed our non-management director compensation against our peer group. The human resources department recommended no changes to the non-management director compensation.

Components of Non-Management Director Compensation

Compensation Element

   Current Value 

Annual Board Retainer

   $105,000

Annual Board Chair Retainer

   $180,000

Annual Committee Chair Retainer for:

      

  Health, Safety, Environmental & Technical Committee

   $15,000

  Audit Committee

   $15,000

  Compensation Committee

   $15,000

  Governance Committee

   $15,000

  Executive Committee

   $

  Non-Executive Stock Award Committee

   $

Annual Equity Grant (dollar equivalent)

   $125,000

Annual cash retainers are paid in quarterly installments. Other than annual cash retainers and equity, no other attendance fees are paid to the non-management directors.

Equity Compensation

We maintain the Hecla Mining Company Stock Plan for Nonemployee Directors (Director Stock Plan or plan). The plan is currently scheduled to terminate on May 15, 2027 and is subject to termination by the Board at any time. Pursuant to the plan, before September 30 of each year, each non-management director is credited with a number of shares determined by dividing the annual equity retainer payable to each non-management director for service on the Board for the following year by the average closing price for Hecla’s common stock on the NYSE for the prior calendar year (the Stock Retainer). A minimum of 25% of the annual Stock Retainer under the Director Stock Plan is contributed to a grantor trust established by the Company. Each director may elect, prior to the first day of the applicable year, to have a greater percentage contributed to the grantor trust for that year. The remaining portion of the Stock Retainer will be transferred to the non-management director as soon as practicable. Non-management directors joining the Board after September 30 of any year will be credited with a pro rata grant of shares when they join the Board.

The shares held in the grantor trust are subject to the claims of our creditors until delivered under the terms of the Director Stock Plan. Delivery of the shares from the trust occurs upon the earliest of: (i) death or disability; (ii) retirement from the Board; (iii) a cessation of the director’s service for any other reason; (iv) a change in control of the Company (as defined in the Director Stock Plan); or (v) a time

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34 | 2024 Proxy Statement

elected by the director, except shares must be held in the trust for at least two years prior to delivery. As of December 31, 2023, there were 2,165,894 shares remaining available for issuance under the Director Stock Plan.

The following chart summarizes the annual cash and equity compensation for our non-management directors during 2023.

Non-Management Director Compensation for 2023

Director

  Fees Earned or
Paid in Cash
($)
  Stock
Awards
(1)
($)
  All Other
Compensation
($)
  

 Total 

($)

Catherine J. Boggs, Board Chair

    180,000    148,577        328,577 

George R. Johnson

    120,000    148,577    5,000(2)     273,577 

Stephen F. Ralbovsky

    120,000    148,577        268,577 

Charles B. Stanley

    120,000    148,577        268,577 

Alice Wong

    120,000    148,577        268,577 

(1)

The amounts shown in this column represent the aggregate grant date fair value computed in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board ASC Topic 718. For a description of the assumptions used in valuing the awards please see Note 12 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023. The stock awards column represents the aggregate grant date fair value of the stock granted to each non-management director under the Director Stock Plan in 2023 as computed in accordance with ASC Topic 718. For each director, the number of common shares granted was determined by dividing $125,000 by the average closing price for Hecla’s common stock on the NYSE for the prior calendar year (the “Stock Retainer”)($4.9975) ($125,000 ÷ $4.9975 = 25,013). A minimum of 25% of the annual Stock Retainer under the Director Stock Plan is contributed to a grantor trust established by the Company. EachOn July 13, 2023, each non-management director may elect, prior to the first day of the applicable year, to have a greater percentage contributed to the grantor trust for that year. The remaining portion of the Stock Retainer will be transferred to the non-management director as soon as practicable.

Non-management directors joining the Board after September 30 of any year will be credited with a pro rata grant ofreceived 25,013 shares when they join the Board. A minimum of 25% of their Stock Retainer for that year will be contributed to the trust. Each director may elect, within 30 days after becoming a participant in the Director Stock Plan, to have a greater percentage contributed to the grantor trust for that year. The remaining portion will be transferred to these directors as soon as practicable after they become members of the Board.

26     www.hecla-mining.com


Compensation of Non-Management Directors

The shares held in the grantor trust are subject to the claims of our creditors until deliveredcommon stock under the terms of the Director Stock Plan. DeliveryBased on our closing stock price on the NYSE on the date of grant of July 13, 2023 ($5.94), the grant date fair value for each grant of 25,013 shares from the trust occurs upon the earliest of: (i) death or disability; (ii) retirement from the Board; (iii) a cessation of the director’s service for any other reason; (iv) a change in control of the Company (as defined in the Director Stock Plan); or (v) a time elected by the director, except shares must be held in the trust for at least two years prior to delivery. As of December 31, 2021, there were 2,269,269 shares remaining available for issuance under the Director Stock Plan.

The following chart summarizes the annual cash and equity compensation for our non-management directors during 2021.

Non-Management Director Compensation for 2021

Director

  Fees Earned or
Paid in Cash
($)
  Stock
Awards
(1)
($)
  All Other
Compensation
(2)
($)
  Total
($)

Catherine J. Boggs

    106,000    265,736    --    371,736

Ted Crumley, Chairman

    218,000    265,736    --    483,736

George R. Johnson

    110,000    265,736    7,500    383,236

George R. Nethercutt, Jr.(3)

    49,000    --    --    49,000

Stephen F. Ralbovsky

    110,000    265,736    --    375,736

Terry V. Rogers

    110,000    265,736    3,750    379,486

Charles B. Stanley

    98,000    265,736    --    363,736

Alice Wong

    98,000    265,736    --    363,736
(1)

The amounts shown in this column represent the aggregate grant date fair value computed in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board ASC Topic 718. For a description of the assumptions used in valuing the awards please see Note 12 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021. The stock awards column represents the aggregate grant date fair value of the stock granted to each non-management director under the Director Stock Plan in 2021 as computed in accordance with ASC Topic 718. For each director, the number of common shares granted was determined by dividing $120,000 by the average closing price for Hecla’s common stock on the NYSE for the prior calendar year ($4.0506) ($120,000 ÷ $4.0506 = 29,625). On June 8, 2021, each non-management director received 29,625 shares of our common stock under the terms of the Director Stock Plan. Based on our closing stock price on the NYSE on the date of grant of June 8, 2021 ($8.97), the grant date fair value for each grant of 29,625 shares was $265,736.was $148,577. (This amount does not reflect the actual amount that may be realized by each director).

(2)

Amounts in this column reflect matching contributions under the Company’s charitable matching gift program. See Political Contributions and Engagement on page 74.

(3)

Mr. Nethercutt retired from the Board in May 2021. He received no compensation after his retirement date.

Other

The Company covers directorsmade a matching contribution under its overall director and officer liability insurance policies, as well as reimbursing them for travel, lodging, and meal expenses incurred in connection with their attendance at Board and committee meetings, meetings of shareholders, and for traveling to visit our operations. Directors are eligible, on the same basis as Company employees, to participate in the Company’scharitable matching gift program pursuant to which the Hecla Charitable Foundation matches contributions made to qualifying nonprofit organizations. Beyond these items, no other compensation was paid to any non-management director.

Non-Management Director Stock Ownership Guidelines

To more closely align the Company’s independent directors’ financial interests with those of the shareholder, in June 2012, the Compensation Committee and Board adopted stock ownership guidelines for our independent directors. Under these guidelines, each independent director is required to own shares of common stock (which includes shares held under the Hecla Mining Company Stock Plan for Nonemployee Directors) valued at three times their annual cash retainer within five years of their appointment to the Board. In the event an independent director’s cash retainer increases, they will have three years from the date of the increase to acquire any additional shares needed to meet these guidelines.

Because of fluctuations in the Company’s stock price, in February 2016, the Compensation Committee and the Board amended the stock ownership guidelines to provide a valuation methodology that consists of valuing the shares held by using the average closing price of the Company’s common stock on the behalf of Mr. Johnson.

Other

The Company covers directors under its overall director and officer liability insurance policies, as well as reimbursing them for travel, lodging, and meal expenses incurred in connection with their attendance at Board and committee meetings, meetings of shareholders, and for traveling to visit our operations. Directors are eligible, on the same basis as Company employees, to participate in the Company’s matching gift program, pursuant to which the Hecla Charitable Foundation matches contributions made to qualifying nonprofit organizations. Beyond these items, no other compensation was paid to any non-management director.

Non-Management Director Stock Ownership Guidelines

To more closely align the Company’s independent directors’ financial interests with those of our shareholders, in June 2012, the committee and Board adopted stock ownership guidelines for our independent directors. Under these guidelines, each independent director is required to own shares of common stock (which includes shares held under the Hecla Mining Company Stock Plan for Nonemployee Directors) valued at three times their annual cash retainer within five years of their appointment to the Board. In the event an independent director’s cash retainer increases, they will have three years from the date of the increase to acquire any additional shares needed to meet these guidelines.

Because of fluctuations in the Company’s stock price, in February 2016, the committee and the Board amended the stock ownership guidelines to provide a valuation methodology that consists of valuing the shares held by using the average closing price of the Company’s common stock on the NYSE for the previous calendar year. Because share prices of all companies are subject to market volatility, the Board believes that it would be unfair to require a director to buy more shares simply because Hecla’s stock price drops. In the event there is a significant decline in Hecla’s stock price that causes a director’s holdings to fall below the applicable threshold, the director will not be required to purchase additional shares to meet the threshold, but they generally may not sell or transfer any shares until the threshold has again been achieved.

As of December 31, 2023, all non-management directors meet the guidelines (Mr. Board is not yet required to meet the minimum share holdings).

Additional information regarding shares held by the non-management directors is included in the Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management table on page 88.

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PROPOSAL 2

Ratify The Appointment Of BDO USA, P.C. As Our Independent

Registered Public Accounting Firm For 2024

 

2022 Proxy Statement    27


Compensation of Non-Management Directors

would be unfair to require a director to buy more shares simply because Hecla’s stock price drops. In the event there is a significant decline in Hecla’s stock price that causes a director’s holdings to fall below the applicable threshold, the director will not be required to purchase additional shares to meet the threshold, but they generally may not sell or transfer any shares until the threshold has again been achieved.

The following table summarizes the non-management director stock ownership as of December 31, 2021. As of December 31, 2021, all non-management directors met the guidelines, except for Ms. Wong, who has until February 2026 to satisfy the requirements of the ownership guidelines.

Non-Management Director Stock Ownership as of December 31, 2021

Director

  Annual
Retainer
($)
  X
Annual
Retainer
  Total
Value
of Shares
to be
Held
($)
  Shares
Held
Directly
(#)
  Shares
Held in
Grantor
Trust
(1)
(#)
  Total
Shares
(#)
  Total Value of
Shares Held
by Director
(2)
($)
  Meets
Guidelines

Boggs

    98,000    3x    294,000    104,678    106,046    210,724    1,339,699    Yes

Crumley

    218,000    3x    654,000    76,536    250,056    326,592    2,076,341    Yes

Johnson

    98,000    3x    294,000    17,273    177,717    194,990    1,239,668    Yes

Ralbovsky

    98,000    3x    294,000    6,123    177,717    183,840    1,168,781    Yes

Rogers

    98,000    3x    294,000    36,117    138,119    174,236    1,107,723    Yes

Stanley

    98,000    3x    294,000    --    219,103    219,103    1,392,969    Yes

Wong(3)

    98,000    3x    294,000    --    29,625    29,625    188,344    N/A
(1)

As of December 31, 2021, the total amount of shares held in trust pursuant to the terms of the Stock Plan for Nonemployee Directors by each of the above-named directors.

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(2)

The value of shares held is determined by using the average closing price of the Company’s common stock for the calendar year on the NYSE, which for 2021 was $6.3576.

(3)

Ms. Wong was appointed to the Board in February 2021. Under the Stock Ownership Guidelines, she has until February 2026 to satisfy the requirements of the ownership guidelines.

Additional information regarding shares held by the non-management directors is included in the Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management table on page 75.

28     www.hecla-mining.com


PROPOSAL 2

RATIFY THE APPOINTMENT OF BDO USA, LLP AS OUR INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM FOR 2022

The Audit Committee is directly responsible for the appointment, compensation, retention, evaluation, and termination, if necessary, of the independent registered public accounting firm retained to audit our financial statements. The Audit Committee appointed BDO USA, LLP (“BDO”) as the independent registered public accounting firm for Hecla for the calendar year ending December 31, 2022. BDO has been retained in that capacity since 2001. The Audit Committee is aware that a long-tenured auditor may be believed by some to pose

The Audit Committee is solely responsible for the appointment, compensation, retention, evaluation, and termination, if necessary, of the independent registered public accounting firm retained to audit our financial statements. The Audit Committee appointed BDO USA, P.C. (BDO) as the independent registered public accounting firm for Hecla for the calendar year ending December 31, 2024. BDO has been retained in that capacity since 2001. The Audit Committee is aware that some may believe a long-tenured auditor poses an independence risk. To address these concerns, the Audit Committee:

 

reviews all non-audit services and engagements provided by BDO, specifically with regard to the impact on the firm’s independence;

conducts a quarterly assessment of BDO’s service quality, and its working relationship with our management;

conducts regular private meetings separately with each of BDO and our management;

interviews and approves the selection of BDO’s new lead engagement partner with each rotation;

at least annually, obtains and reviews a report from BDO, describing all relationships between the independent auditor and Hecla; and

reviews data relating to audit quality and performance, including the most recent Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) reports on BDO and its peer firms.

The members of the Audit Committee believe that the continued retention of BDO to serve as our independent registered public accounting firm is in the best interests of Hecla and our shareholders.

Although ratification is not required, the Board and the Audit Committee are submitting the appointment of BDO to our shareholders for ratification because we value our shareholders’ views on our independent registered public accounting firm, and as a matter of good governance practice. In the event our shareholders fail to ratify the appointment, it will be considered as a direction to the Board and to the Audit Committee to consider the appointment of a different firm. Even if the appointment is ratified, the Audit Committee in its discretion may select a different independent registered public accounting firm at any time during the year if it determines that such change would be in the best interest of the Company and its shareholders.

Representatives of BDO are expected to be present at the Annual Meeting with the opportunity to make statements and respond to appropriate questions from shareholders present at the meeting.

Required Vote

Under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, the Audit Committee has the sole authority to appoint the independent registered public accounting firm for the Company. However, the Board feels that it is important for the shareholders to ratify the selection of BDO USA, LLP. This proposal requires the affirmative vote of a majority of votes cast at the Annual Meeting, whether in person or by proxy. See What Votes are Required for the Proposals on page 81.

The members of the Audit Committee believe that the continued retention of BDO to serve as our independent registered public accounting firm is in the best interests of Hecla and our shareholders.

Although ratification is not required, the Board and the Audit Committee are submitting the appointment of BDO to our shareholders for ratification because we value our shareholders’ views on our independent registered public accounting firm, and as a matter of good governance practice. In the event our shareholders fail to ratify the appointment, it will be considered as a direction to the Board and to the Audit Committee to consider the appointment of a different firm. Even if the appointment is ratified, the Audit Committee in its discretion may select a different independent registered public accounting firm at any time during the year if it determines that such change would be in the best interest of the Company and its shareholders.

Representatives of BDO are expected to be present at the Annual Meeting with the opportunity to make statements and respond to appropriate questions from shareholders present at the meeting.

Required Vote

Under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, the Audit Committee has the sole authority to appoint the independent registered public accounting firm for the Company. However, the Board feels that it is important for the shareholders to ratify the selection of BDO USA, P.C. This proposal requires the affirmative vote of a majority of votes cast at the Annual Meeting, whether in person or by proxy. See What Votes are Required for the Proposals on page 95.

You may vote “FOR,” “AGAINST,” or “ABSTAIN” on the proposal to ratify the appointment of BDO USA, P.C. as our independent registered public accounting firm for 2024.

LOGOLOGOThe Audit Committee and Board recommend shareholders vote “FOR” ratifying the appointment of BDO USA, LLPP.C. as our independent registered public accounting firm for 2022.2024.

 

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36 | 2024 Proxy Statement

 

Pre-Approval Process

The Audit Committee is responsible for reviewing and, if appropriate, pre-approving all audit, audit-related and non-audit services to be performed by our independent registered public accounting firm. The Audit Committee charter authorizes the Audit Committee to establish a policy and related procedures regarding the pre-approval of audit, audit-related and non-audit services to be performed by our independent registered public accounting firm.

The Audit Committee has delegated its pre-approval authority to the Chair of the Audit Committee, who is authorized to pre-approve services to be performed by our independent registered public accounting firm and the compensation to be paid for such services until the next regularly-scheduled meeting of the Audit Committee, provided that in such case, the Chair shall provide a report to the Audit Committee at its next regularly scheduled meeting of any services and compensation approved by the Chair pursuant to the delegated authority. On a periodic basis, management reports to the Audit Committee the actual spending for projects and services compared to the approved amounts. All audit-related services performed by our independent registered public accounting firm in the calendar year ended December 31, 2023, were approved by the Audit Committee.

Audit and Non-Audit Fees

The following table presents fees for professional audit services rendered by BDO for the audit of our annual financial statements for the calendar years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, and fees for other services rendered by BDO during those periods.

    2023  2022

Audit Fees(1)

   $1,240,100   $1,135,250

Audit Related Fees(2)

   $145,500   $98,000

Tax Fees

        

All Other Fees

        

Total

   $1,385,600   $1,233,250

 

The Audit Committee and Board recommend shareholders vote “FOR” ratifying the appointment of BDO USA, LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for 2022.
(1)

Relates to services rendered in connection with the annual audit of our consolidated financial statements, quarterly reviews of financial statements included in our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and fees related to the review of registration statements and prospectuses filed with the SEC.

 

2022 Proxy Statement    29


Proposal 2 — Ratify the Appointment of BDO USA, LLP as Our Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm for 2022

Pre-Approval Process

The Audit Committee is responsible for reviewing and, if appropriate, pre-approving all audit, audit-related and non-audit services to be performed by our independent registered public accounting firm. The Audit Committee charter authorizes the Audit Committee to establish a policy and related procedures regarding the pre-approval of audit, audit-related and non-audit services to be performed by our independent registered public accounting firm.

The Audit Committee has delegated its pre-approval authority to the Chair of the Audit Committee, who is authorized to pre-approve services to be performed by our independent registered public accounting firm and the compensation to be paid for such services until the next regularly-scheduled meeting of the Audit Committee, provided that in such case the Chair shall provide a report to the Audit Committee at its next regularly-scheduled meeting of any services and compensation approved by the Chair pursuant to the delegated authority. On a periodic basis, management reports to the Audit Committee the actual spending for projects and services compared to the approved amounts.

Audit and Non-Audit Fees

The following table presents fees for professional audit services rendered by BDO for the audit of our annual financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2020, and December 31, 2021, and fees for other services rendered by BDO during those periods.

    2021   2020 

Audit Fees(1)

  $975,800   $1,041,500 

Audit Related Fees(2)

   93,000    93,000 

Tax Fees(3)

   --    10,000 

All Other Fees

   --    -- 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $1,068,800   $1,144,500 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
(1)

Relates to services rendered in connection with the annual audit of our consolidated financial statements, quarterly reviews of financial statements included in our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and fees related to the registration of securities with the SEC. The 2020 fees include procedures related to the $475 million debt refinancing in February 2020.

(2)

Consists of fees for employee benefit plans financial statement audits.

(3)

Consisted of fees for tax assistance in preparation of the Scientific Research & Experimental Development Tax Credits Application of Hecla Quebec (one of our subsidiaries), submitted to Revenue Canada (fiscal year 2020).

Report of the Audit Committee

The Audit Committee acts under a written charter. You may obtain a copy of the charter in the “Investors” section of www.hecla-mining.com under “Governance and Ethics.”

In the performance of its oversight responsibilities, the Audit Committee (1) reviewed and discussed with management and the independent registered public accounting firm the Company’s audited financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021; (2) discussed with the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm the matters required to be discussed by the applicable requirements of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (“PCAOB”) and SEC; (3) received the written disclosures and the letter from the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm required by the applicable requirements of the PCAOB regarding the independent accountant’s communications with the Audit Committee regarding independence; and (4) discussed with the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm any relationships that may impact its objectivity and independence and satisfied itself as to the firm’s independence. During 2021, the Audit Committee worked with management, our internal auditor, and our independent auditor to address Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404 internal control requirements. The Audit Committee met six times in 2021.

Report of the Audit Committee

The Audit Committee acts under a written charter. You may obtain a copy of the charter in the “Company” section of https://www.hecla.com under “Governance & Ethics.”

In the performance of its oversight responsibilities, the Audit Committee (1) reviewed and discussed with management and the independent registered public accounting firm the Company’s audited financial statements for the calendar year ended December 31, 2023; (2) discussed with BDO the matters required to be discussed by the applicable requirements of the PCAOB and SEC; (3) received the written disclosures and the letter from BDO required by the applicable requirements of the PCAOB regarding the independent accountant’s communications with the Audit Committee regarding independence; and (4) discussed with BDO any relationships that may impact its objectivity and independence and satisfied itself as to the firm’s independence. During 2023, the Audit Committee worked with management, our internal auditor, and BDO to address Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404 internal control requirements. The Audit Committee met eight times in 2023.

Company management is responsible for the assessment and determination of risks associated with the Company’s business, financial reporting, operations, and contractual obligations. The Audit Committee, together with the Board of Directors, is responsible for oversight of the Company’s management of risks. As part of its responsibilities for oversight of the Company’s management of risks, the Audit Committee has reviewed and discussed the Company’s enterprise-wide risk assessment, and the Company’s policies with respect to risk assessment and risk management, including discussions of individual risk areas as well as an annual summary of the overall process.

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2024 Proxy Statement | 37

 

30     www.hecla-mining.com

The Audit Committee has discussed with both Hecla’s internal auditor and BDO the overall scope of the plans for their respective audits. The Audit Committee regularly meets with a representative of the firm hired to serve as Hecla’s internal auditor and representatives of BDO, in regular and executive sessions, to discuss the results of their examinations, their evaluations of the Company’s internal controls, and the overall quality of Hecla’s financial reporting and compliance programs.

Management is responsible for the Company’s financial reporting process, including establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting and the preparation of the Company’s financial statements. BDO is responsible for performing an independent audit of the Company’s consolidated financial statements and expressing an opinion on the conformity of the Company’s audited financial statements with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. BDO is also responsible for performing an independent audit of the effectiveness of the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting and issuing a report thereon. The Audit Committee relies, without independent verification, on the information provided to it and on the representations made by management and BDO. Based on the review and discussion and the representations made by management and BDO, the Audit Committee recommended to the Board that the audited consolidated financial statements for the calendar year ended December 31, 2023, be included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the calendar year ended December 31, 2023, and filed with the SEC.

The material contained in this Audit Committee Report does not constitute soliciting material, is not deemed filed with the SEC, and is not incorporated by reference into any other Company filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (Exchange Act), whether made on, before, or after the date of this Proxy Statement and irrespective of any general incorporation language in such filing, except to the extent that the Company specifically incorporates this Audit Committee Report by reference therein.

Respectfully submitted by

The Audit Committee of the

Board of Directors

Stephen F. Ralbovsky, Chair

Catherine J. Boggs

Charles B. Stanley


Proposal 2 — Ratify the Appointment of BDO USA, LLP as Our Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm for 2022

The Audit Committee has discussed with both Hecla’s internal auditor and independent registered public accounting firm the overall scope of the plans for their respective audits. The Audit Committee regularly meets with a representative of the firm hired to serve as Hecla’s internal auditor and representatives of the independent registered public accounting firm, in regular and executive sessions, to discuss the results of their examinations, their evaluations of the Company’s internal controls, and the overall quality of Hecla’s financial reporting and compliance programs.

Management is responsible for the Company’s financial reporting process, including establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting and the preparation of the Company’s financial statements. The Company’s independent registered public accounting firm is responsible for performing an independent audit of the Company’s consolidated financial statements and expressing an opinion on the conformity of the Company’s audited financial statements with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. The Company’s independent registered public accounting firm also is responsible for performing an independent audit of the effectiveness of the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting and issuing a report thereon. The Audit Committee relies, without independent verification, on the information provided to it and on the representations made by management and the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm. Based on the review and discussion and the representations made by management and the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, the Audit Committee recommended to the Board that the audited consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021, be included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021, and filed with the SEC.

The material contained in this Audit Committee Report does not constitute soliciting material, is not deemed filed with the SEC, and is not incorporated by reference into any other Company filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act, whether made on, before, or after the date of this Proxy Statement and irrespective of any general incorporation language in such filing, except to the extent that the Company specifically incorporates this Audit Committee Report by reference therein.

Respectfully submitted by

The Audit Committee of the

Board of Directors

Stephen F. Ralbovsky, Chair

Catherine J. Boggs

George R. Johnson

Alice Wong

 

2022 Proxy Statement    31

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PROPOSAL 3

APPROVAL, ON AN ADVISORY BASIS, OF OUR EXECUTIVE COMPENSATIONLOGO

 

PROPOSAL 3

    Approval, On An Advisory Basis, Of Our Named

    Executive Officer Compensation

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Our Board seeks your vote to approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation paid to our NEOsnamed executive officers (NEOs) for 20212023 as set forth under the heading Compensation Discussion and Analysis (“CD&A”) (CD&A) on page 34 and in the accompanying compensation tables starting on page 57,40, and related material. The Board believes that our current executive compensation program is right for the Company and our shareholders. Our executive compensation program is designed to attract, retain, and motivate talented individuals who possess the executive experience and the leadership skills needed by the Company to maintain and increase shareholder value. We seek to provide executive compensation that is competitive with that provided by companies in our peer group within the mining industry. We also seek to provide both short- and long-term financial incentives to our executives that reward them for goodsuperior performance, and achieving financial results and strategic objectives that are expected to contribute to increased long-term shareholder value.

Underlying these incentives is a strong philosophy of “pay-for-performance” that forms the foundation of decisions regarding the compensation of our NEOs. This compensation philosophy, which has been consistent over many years, is designed to align the interests of our NEOs with the interests of our shareholders and is central to our ability to attract, retain and motivate executive leaders to guide the Company through market challenges over the long term.

The primary methods we use to align the interests of our NEOs with our shareholders include:

 

Placingplacing a vast majority (78.6%(80.7%) of the CEO’s total compensation at-risk;

Targetingtargeting total direct compensation of our NEOs’NEOs at approximately the 50th percentile of peer compensation;

Strikingstriking the right balance between short- and long-term results; and

Selectingselecting appropriate performance metrics, including market-based measures such as total shareholder return, annual financial and operational goals such as production and EBITDA, and individual performance goals that drive our long-term business strategy.

Some highlights of our 20212023 executive compensation program include:

 

NEO compensation lower in 2021 than in 2020;

Our 2021 STIPour 2023 Short-term Incentive Plan aligns 20212023 payments to actual performance on pre-established targets, effectively linking the Company’s financial performance to NEO pay;

Despite outstanding financialour Long-term Incentive Plan (LTIP) seeks to incentivize employees to achieve long-term performance in 2021goals. Our 2021-2023 LTIP achieved below target on production and our total shareholder return above median, our 2019-2021 LTIP paid zero becausecash flow, maximum levels for reserve additions, and the goals were not met; and

STIP and LTIP performanceTSR ranked 8th out of 23 peers. The resulting payout was negatively impacted by COVID-19, yet original STIP and LTIP goals were not modified.$56.25 per unit out of a targeted payout of $90 per unit.

In 2021,2023, of our shareholders who voted, 97% voted in favor of our executive compensation program. In considering how to vote on this proposal, we urge you to review the relevant disclosures in this Proxy Statement, particularly the CD&A section, which contains detailed information about our executive compensation program. We currently holdhave held our “Say-on-Pay” advisory vote every year. We expect theannually since 2011. The next required shareholder vote onto recommend the frequency of our “Say-on-Pay” advisorysuch votes is expected to occur at our annual meeting to be held in 2023.2029.

The Board and the Compensation Committee value the opinions of our shareholders and to the extent there is any significant vote against the NEO compensation as disclosed in this Proxy Statement, the Compensation Committee will carefully review and consider the voting results when evaluating our executive compensation program.

32     www.hecla-mining.com


Proposal 3 — Approval, on an Advisory Basis, of Our Executive Compensation

We are asking shareholders to approve the following resolution at the Annual Meeting:

“RESOLVED, that the compensation paid to the Company’s named executive officers,NEOs, as disclosed pursuant to Item 402 of Regulation S-K, described in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis,CD&A, Summary Compensation Table for 2021,2023, and the related compensation tables and narrative in the Proxy Statement for the Company’s 20222024 Annual Shareholders’ Meeting, is hereby APPROVED.”

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2024 Proxy Statement | 39

Required Vote

The advisory vote on executive compensation will require the affirmative vote of a majority of votes cast at the Annual Meeting, whether in person or by proxy. See WhatVotes are Required for the Proposals on page 81.95.

You may vote “FOR,” “AGAINST,” or “ABSTAIN” on the proposal to approve the compensation of our NEOs.

 

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 LOGO   LOGO 

 

The Board recommends that you vote “FOR”“FOR” approval of the compensation of our NEOs.

 

 

2022 Proxy Statement    33

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COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSISCompensation Discussion And Analysis

 

     

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS TO COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

 

 

 

    
           Executive Summary  35           

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation

  56       
   

Key Operating and Significant Financial Results

  36     
   Benchmarking and Competitive Analyses  37    Compensation Committee Report  56   
   

The Compensation Committee Process and Role of Management and Human Resources Department

  38    Compensation of NEOs – Tables  57   
     

•  Summary Compensation Table for 2021

  57   
     

•  Grants of Plan-Based Awards for 2021

  60   
   Compensation Philosophy and Objectives  39    

•  Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End
    For 2021

  62   
   Elements of Total Compensation  41     
   

•  Total Compensation Mix

  42    

•  Stock Vested in 2021

  63   
   

Overview of our Compensation Decisions and Results for 2021

  43    

•  Stock Ownership for NEOs

  64   
     

•  Pension Benefits

  65   
   

•  Summary

  43    

•  Nonqualified Deferred Compensation for 2021

  65   
   

•  Base Salary

  43    

•  Potential Payments Upon Termination or
    Change in Control

  66   
   

•  Incentive Plans

  44     
   

•  Equity

  50    

•  CEO Pay Ratio

  71   
   Other  52    Other Benefits  72   
   Clawback Policy  53    

•  Retirement Plan

  72   
   Insider Trading Policy  53        
   Stock Ownership Guidelines  53        
   Change in Control Agreements  54        
   Tax and Accounting Considerations  55        
                       
                        
         
                           
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ThisTable of Contents to Compensation Discussion and Analysis (“

COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

40

Executive Summary

42

Key Operating and Significant Financial Results

42

Benchmarking and Competitive Analyses

43

The Compensation Committee Process and the Role of Management and the Human Resources Department

45

Compensation Philosophy and Objectives

46

Elements of Total Compensation

48

Targeted Compensation

49

Overview of our Compensation Decisions and Results for 2023

50

Other

60

Stock Ownership Guidelines for NEOs

61

Clawback Policy

62

Insider Trading Policy

62

Change in Control Agreements

62

Tax and Accounting Considerations

63

COMPENSATION RISK ANALYSIS

64

COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION

65

COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT

66

COMPENSATION OF NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

67

Summary Compensation Table for 2023

67

Grants of Plan-Based Awards for 2023

69

Outstanding Equity Awards at Calendar Year-End for 2023

71

Stock Vested in 2023

72

OTHER BENEFITS

73

Pension Benefits

73

Retirement Plan

73

Nonqualified Deferred Compensation for 2023

75

Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control

76

CEO Pay Ratio

81

PAY vs. PERFORMANCE

82

OTHER MATTERS

87

Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions

87

Political Contributions and Engagement

87

Delinquent Section 16(a) Reports

87

Shareholder proposals to be included in next year’s Proxy Statement

87

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management

88

This CD&A”),&A describes and analyzes our executive compensation philosophy and program in the context of the compensation paid during the last calendar year to our CEO, Sr.Senior Vice President and CFO,– Chief Financial Officer, and our three other most highly compensated executive officers during 2021,2023, and any additional individuals for whom disclosure would have been provided, but for the fact that the individuals were not serving as executive officers at the end of the last completed calendar year.

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2024 Proxy Statement | 41

Our Compensation Committee (committee) strives to design a fair and competitive compensation program for executive officers that will attract, motivate, and retain highly qualified and experienced executives, reward performance and provide incentives based on our performance and reward performance, with an overall emphasis on maximizing our long-term shareholder value. Our executive compensation program consists of several components, including base salary, short- and long-term performance awards (paid in cash or equity), equity awards, a deferred compensation plan and retirement benefits. The named executive officersNEOs who are discussed throughout this CD&A and in the compensation tables are:

 

Name

Age   NameAgePrincipal Position

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Phillips S. Baker, Jr.64

President and CEO

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 62Russell D. Lawlar President and CEO

Russell D. Lawlar

44
  42

Sr. Vice President and CFOChief Financial Officer

Lauren M. RobertsLOGO

 Michael L. Clary 56  

Sr. Vice President and COOChief Administrative Officer

Robert D. BrownLOGO

 53Robert D. Brown 55

Vice President – Corporate Development and Sustainability

David C. SienkoLOGO

 53David C. Sienko 55

Vice President and General Counsel

Lindsay A. Hall*LOGO

 66Lauren M. Roberts 58

Former Sr. Vice President and CFO

*

Retired in March 2021Chief Operating Officer

 

34     www.hecla-mining.com


Compensation Discussion and Analysis

Glossary of CD&A Terms

committee

 

Compensation Committee

 NEO

2010 Stock Plan

 Named Executive Officer

2010 Stock Incentive Plan

STIP

 

Short-term Incentive Plan

 2010 Stock Plan

KEDCP

 2010 Stock Incentive

Key Employee Deferred Compensation Plan

LTIP

 

Long-term Incentive Plan

KEDCPKey Employee Deferred Compensation Plan

 

PSUsRetirement Plan

 Performance-based SharesRetirement Plan

Hecla Mining Company Retirement Plan, a defined benefit retirement plan

PSUs

 

Performance-based Units

SERP

Supplemental Excess Retirement Plan

RSUs

 

Restricted Stock Units

 SERP

SEC

 Supplemental Excess Retirement Plan

Securities and Exchange Commission

TSR

 

Total Shareholder Return

 SEC

ESG

 Securities

Environmental, Social and Exchange Commission

Governance

GAAP

 

Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States

 

ESG

UCB

 

Environmental, Social and Governance

Underhand Closed Bench mining method

Dodd FrankDodd-Frank Act

 

Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act

 

NYSE

 

New York Stock Exchange

AISC

 

All-In Sustaining Cost After By-Product Credits

 

AIFR

 

All-Injury Frequency Rate

401(k) Plan

 401(k) Plan

Hecla’s Capital Accumulation Plan, a defined contribution retirement plan

 

AEMA

American Exploration & Mining Association

SME

Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration

AgEq

Silver Equivalent Ounces

NEOs

Named Executive Officers

LTI

Long-term Incentive Components (LTIP, RSUs and PSUs)

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42 | 2024 Proxy Statement

Executive Summary

Hecla isWe are the largest primary silver producer in the United States – and the oldest NYSE-listed precious metals mining company in North America. In addition to twoWe have operating silver mines in Alaska (Greens Creek) and, Idaho (Lucky Friday), and a gold producing mine in Quebec, Canada (Casa Berardi), weand Yukon Territory, Canada (Keno Hill). We also own several exploration properties and pre-development projects in world-class silver and gold mining districts throughout North America.

Overall, 20212023 was a strong year for Hecla.of mixed results. We had goodexperienced two abnormal events which were largely outside of our control: a fire at our Lucky Friday mine that resulted in an extended period of no production at the mine, and cash flow despite ongoing difficultiesan impoundment failure at our Casa Berardi mine that contributed to lower than expected production from the mine. Strategically, we faced with COVID-19, includingcompleted the acquisition of ATAC Resource, which gave us a tight labor market, and supply chain challenges. We had record sales of $807.5 million with net income of $35.1 million for700 square mile land package in the year, resulting in a record adjusted EBITDA of $278.8 million.4 We generated $220.3 million of cash flow from operations,Yukon Territory. Our silver reserves were the second highest in Company history, and we produced 14.3 million ounces of silver, which was our history, with $111.3second highest in history. Our Greens Creek and Lucky Friday mines recorded their lowest AIFR of 0.29 and 0.66, respectively.

In addition to the 14.3 million ounces of silver, we produced 151,259 ounces of gold, 60,579 tons of zinc and 40,347 tons of lead. We generated $75.5 million in freenet cash flow for the year.5In addition, the Company ended the year with a strongprovided by operating activities after $32.5 million in exploration and pre-development and $76.3 million in ramp-up and suspension costs.

We also had sales of $720.2 million, and our balance sheet with over $210.0$106.4 million in cash and paid a total of $20.7cash equivalents, and approximately $121.5 million in available liquidity. We also paid dividends to our common and preferred shareholders.shareholders in the amount of $15.7 million.

Operationally, we produced 12.9 million ounces of silver and 201,327 ounces of gold. AlthoughIn 2023, we did not reduce last year’s record low AIFR, our AIFR was still the second lowest in Hecla’s history and lower than the national average. We had record exploration and pre-development expenditures of $47.9 million, which allowed us to add significantly to our reserves.

Our ESG performance for the year hadhave some notable highlights, including (i) Scope 1the issuance of a patent in the U.S. for our UCB mining method; (ii) our Keno Hill mine began silver production in the second quarter of 2023; and Scope 2 GHG emissions were reduced 44% from 2019 baseline levels; (ii) we retired equivalent tonnage of United Nations Certified Emission Reduction credits(iii) in response to be net zero on Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions; (iii) our GHG Intensity score (Total Metric Tonnes GHG Emissions / Total Revenues US$M) was reduced by 53% from 201.92 to 94.8; and (iv) 99% of our electricity usedthe third quarter fire at our mines was line power, of which 70% was generated from renewable hydropower.Lucky Friday mine, we executed the Lucky Friday mine restart plan on schedule and restarted production in January 2024.

Based onAfter considering the Company’s 2021positive and negative Company performance ourin 2023, the committee determined that ourthe STIP corporate performance was 115%80% of target. Despite achieving notable accomplishments for the year, we did not achievetarget, and our goals under the2021-2023 LTIP and as a result payouts under that plan were zero. LTIP goals were negatively impacted by COVID-19 (as were STIP goals) yet despite this, the goals under the LTIP for 2019-2021 were not adjusted (nor were 2021 STIP goals adjusted). We believe this reflects that our compensation philosophy works and demonstrates the STIP is sensitive to short-term performance and that the LTIP, while influenced by short-term events, is more sensitive to long-term performance, which is just as we intend.was 63% of target.

4

A non-GAAP measurement. See Appendix A for reconciliation to GAAP.

5

A non-GAAP measurement. See Appendix A for reconciliation to GAAP.

2022 Proxy Statement    35


Compensation Discussion and Analysis

Key Operating and Significant Financial Results

The mining business requires long-term planning and implementation of operating strategies over several years to deliver successful operating and financial results. Accordingly, in the table below and summary that follows, we set forth our key operating and financial results for years 2021, 20202023, 2022 and 2019.2021.

 

  As of and for the Year Ended December 31,  As of and for the Year Ended December 31, 

Key Results

  2021  2020 2019  2023   2022   2021 

Silver (ounces) produced

    12,887,240    13,542,957  12,605,234

Silver (ounces) produced

Silver (ounces) produced

Silver (ounces) produced

   14,342,863    14,182,987    12,887,240 

Gold (ounces) produced

Gold (ounces) produced

Gold (ounces) produced

Gold (ounces) produced

    201,327    208,962  272,873   151,259    175,807    201,327 

Lead (tons) produced

    43,010    34,127  24,210

Lead (tons) produced

Lead (tons) produced

Lead (tons) produced

   40,347    48,713    43,010 

Zinc (tons) produced

    63,617    63,112  58,857

Zinc (tons) produced

Zinc (tons) produced

Zinc (tons) produced

   60,579    64,748    63,617 

Sales of products (in millions)

   $807.5   $691.9 $673.3

Sales (in millions)

Sales (in millions)

Sales (in millions)

Sales (in millions)

  $720.2   $718.9   $807.5 

Net income (loss) (in millions)

   $35.1   $(9.5) $(94.9)

Net (loss) income (in millions)

Net (loss) income (in millions)

Net (loss) income (in millions)

Net (loss) income (in millions)

  $(84.2  $(37.3  $35.1 

Basic income (loss) per common share

   $0.06   $(0.02) $(0.19)

Basic (loss) income per common share

Basic (loss) income per common share

Basic (loss) income per common share

Basic (loss) income per common share

  $(0.14  $(0.07  $0.06 

EBITDA (in millions)6

   $220.1   $203.3 $131.6

Adjusted EBITDA (in millions)(3)

Adjusted EBITDA (in millions)(3)

Adjusted EBITDA (in millions)(3)

Adjusted EBITDA (in millions)(3)

  $212.6   $217.5   $220.1 

Cash from operating activities (in millions)

Cash from operating activities (in millions)

Cash from operating activities (in millions)

Cash from operating activities (in millions)

   $220.3   $180.8 $120.9  $75.5   $89.9   $220.3 

Cash and cash equivalents (in millions)

   $210.0   $129.8 $62.5

Cash and cash equivalents (in millions)

Cash and cash equivalents (in millions)

Cash and cash equivalents (in millions)

  $106.4   $104.7   $210.0 

(3)

Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP measurement. See Appendix A for a reconciliation to GAAP.

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2024 Proxy Statement | 43

Our overall operating and financial results are more fully described in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on February 23, 2022. During the 2021 STIP period, some15, 2024. Some of our key achievements during 2023 were as follows:

Operational:

 

produced 12.9 million ounces of silver and 201,327 ounces of gold;

achieved record throughput at our Casa Berardi Mine, which resulted in gold production of 134,511 ounces, as our mill optimization efforts delivered results, including an increase in recoveries by 4%;

developed the UCB mining method at the Lucky Friday Mine, which was utilized for approximately 86% of the tons mined in 2021 and assisted in managing seismicity and improving silver production by 75%, compared to 2020;

continued our trend of strong safety performance, as our AIFR for 2021 was 1.45, 40% below the U.S. national average for MSHA’s metal and nonmetal mines;

continued mitigation of the impacts of COVID-19 through the encouragement of vaccinations as they became available in the geographic locations where we operate, and refinement of our operational plans and procedures to protect our workforce, operations and communities while maintaining liquidity; and

purchased 300,000 tonnes of carbon offset credits for a total cost of $0.9 million, of which 76,550 tonnes CO2e were retired in order for us to be carbon neutral in 2021, leaving an inventory of carbon credits for future retirement to remain carbon neutral in the near term.

Financial:

reported sales of products of $807.5 million, the highest in our history, reflecting a full year’s production from our Lucky Friday Mine;

 

generated $220.3silver reserves of 238 million ounces, second highest in net cash provided by operating activities yielding $111.3Company history;

gold reserves of 2.2 million ounces;

produced 14.3 million ounces of free cash flow, bothsilver, Hecla’s second highest, and 151,259 ounces of gold;

zinc production of 61,000 tons and lead production of 40,000 tons;

our Lucky Friday mine mitigated the damages to the #2 Shaft and restarted production in January 2024;

we achieved an AIFR of 1.45, which werewas lower than the national average, with our Greens Creek and Lucky Friday mines recording their lowest AIFR of 0.29 and 0.66, respectively; and

our Keno Hill mine began silver production in the second quarter of 2023.

Financial:

reported sales of $720.2 million, the second highest in our history, with all operations contributing positively;7

reduced the minimum realized silver price threshold of our common stock dividend to $20 from $25 per ounce and added $0.01 per share to the annual silver-linked component, our third dividend increase since June 2020. During 2021, we returned a total of $20.7 million, or 19% of free cash flows to our common and preferred shareholders;

invested in capital expenditures (excluding lease additions and other non-cash items) of approximately $109.0 million, including $49.6 million at Casa Berardi, $23.9 million at Greens Creek, $29.9 million at Lucky Friday, and $5.5 million at the Nevada operations;

spent a record $47.9 million on exploration and pre-development activities, which increased our total reserves for silver by approximately 11.5 million ounces, or 6%, and for gold by approximately 330,000 ounces, or 14%; and

released $58.4 million of valuation allowance on our deferred tax assets, reflecting our current expectation of utilizing these tax assets.

6

A non-GAAP measurement. See Appendix A for reconciliation to GAAP.

7

A non-GAAP measurement. See Appendix A for reconciliation to GAAP.39% from silver and 36% from gold;

 

cash flow from operations of $75.5 million, with Greens Creek generating $157.3 million in cash flow from operations and free cash flow of $121.6 million(4);

36     www.hecla-mining.com

balance sheet with $106.4 million in cash and cash equivalents with approximately $121.5 million in available liquidity;

returned $15.7 million to our common and preferred stock shareholders through dividends; and

adjusted EBITDA(5) for the year was $212.6 million, which was in line with the prior year.

Environmental, Social, Governance:

 


Compensation Discussion and Analysis

our Greens Creek mine received the annual Hard Hat Safety Award by Alaska Miners Association in recognition of the mine’s exemplary commitment to safety;

 

received the NIOSH Mine Safety and Health Technology Metals Sector Innovation Award, in recognition of Hecla’s culture of innovation with the issuance of a patent in the U.S. for the UCB mining method; and

We achieved all the above while increasing our cash balance to $210.0 million, which was $80.2 million higher than on December 31, 2020, with no amount drawn on our revolving credit facility, as of December 31, 2021.

five of our seven directors joined the Board after 2016, including one in 2021 and most recently, an additional director was added in the first quarter 2024.

Benchmarking and Competitive Analyses

We have adopted a pay-for-performance philosophy that incentivizes performance by targeting base salaries slightly below the median of our peer group but targeting incentives above the peer median. The total direct compensation of our NEOs is targeted at approximately the 50th percentile. The process of setting targeted compensation includes consideration of ana NEO’s skills, experience, knowledge, and reputation in the industry, as well as Company needs.

Central to the pay review process is the selection of a relevant peer group. Because we operate in a global business that is dominated by Canadian companies, our peer group reflects this withincludes only two U.S. companies among our peer group.companies. In addition, we have a corporate office in Vancouver, British Columbia, where one of our NEOs works. The committee reviews and determines the composition of our peer group on an annual basis. In May 2021,2023, the committee added Equinox Gold and Yamana Gold,approved the same peer group as these companies are similar to Heclaused in total revenue, total assets and/or market capitalization.the previous year.

(4)

Free cash flow is a non-GAAP measurement. See Appendix A for a reconciliation to GAAP.

(5)

Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP measurement. See Appendix A for a reconciliation to GAAP.

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44 | 2024 Proxy Statement

In 2021,2023, our peer group was made up of the following 17 companies, whose aggregate profile was comparable to Hecla in terms of size, industry, and competition for executive talent.13 companies:

 

Company

  

Annual

Revenue(1)

($US millions)

   

Market Cap(1)

($US millions)

   

Total Assets(1)

($US millions)

   

Corporate

Location

  

TSR    

Peer    

Alamos Gold Inc.

   748         3,425         3,637        Canada  ●    

B2Gold Corp.

   1,789         5,920         3,362        Canada  ●    

Centerra Gold Inc.

   1,689         3,442         3,136        Canada  ●    

Coeur Mining Inc.

   785         2,658         1,404        United States  ●    

Eldorado Gold

   1,027         2,422         4,931        Canada  ●    

Equinox Gold

   843         3,127         2,672        Canada  ●    

First Majestic Silver Corp.

   364         3,491         1,238        Canada  ●    

IAMGOLD Corporation

   1,242         1,751         4,154 ��      Canada  ●    

New Gold Inc.

   643         1,499         2,250        Canada  ●    

Novagold

   --         3,223         224        Canada  

 

Oceana Gold

   500         1,361         2,253        Canada  ●    

Pan American Silver Corporation

   1,339         7,261         3,434        Canada  ●    

Pretium Resources

   618         2,155         1,431        Canada  ●    

Royal Gold, Inc.

   562         6,973         2,764        United States  

 

SSR Mining

   853         4,266         5,245        Canada  ●    

Torex Gold

   789         1,287         1,252        Canada  ●    

Yamana Gold

   1,561         5,481         8,423        Canada  

 

Median

   789         3,223         2,764        

 

  

 

Hecla Mining Company

   692         3,489         2,700        United States  

 

Company

 

Annual

Revenue(1)

($US millions)

  

Market Cap(1)

($US millions)

  

Total Assets(1)

($US millions)

  

Corporate

Location

 

Alamos Gold Inc. (NYSE: AGI)

  8,212   3,985   3,674   Canada 

B2Gold Corporation (NYSE: BTG)

  1,733   3,821   3,681   Canada 

Centerra Gold Inc. (NYSE: CGAU)

  850   1,132   2,334   Canada 

Coeur Mining Inc. (NYSE: CDE)

  786   994   1,846   United States 

Eldorado Gold Corporation (NYSE: EGO)

  871   1,548   4,458   Canada 

First Majestic Silver Corp. (NYSE: AG)

  627   2,273   2,110   Canada 

IAMGOLD Corporation (NYSE: IAG)

  957   1,229   4,425   Canada 

New Gold Inc. (NYSE: NGD)

  604   671   2,244   Canada 

NOVAGOLD Resources Inc. (NYSE: NG)

  0   1,392   159   Canada 

Pan American Silver Corporation (Nasdaq: PAAS)

  1,495   3,441   3,249   Canada 

Royal Gold, Inc. (Nasdaq: RGLD)

  603   7,394   3,535   United States 

SSR Mining Inc. (Nasdaq: SSRM)

  1,148   3,237   5,255   Canada 

Torex Gold Resources Inc. (OTC: TORXF)

  869   987   1,593   Canada 

Median

  869   1,548   3,249     

Hecla Mining Company (NYSE: HL)

  719   2,263   2,927   United States 

(1)

In $US millions as of year-end 2020. 2022.

The peer group is composed entirely of publicly held companies, mostall of which are engaged in the business of mining precious metals, with revenue, market capitalization and total assets within a reasonable range of Hecla’s. We believe these peer companies are appropriate because they are in the same industry, compete with us for executive talent, have executives in positions similar to ours, and are considered by the committee to be comparable to Hecla.

2022 Proxy Statement    37


Compensation Discussion and Analysis

During our shareholder outreach discussions, many of our largest shareholders have informed us that, compared to peer groups selected by proxy advisory firms, they consider the peer group chosen by us to be the mostmore relevant and appropriate for compensation and performance benchmarking purposes. The peer group selected last year by Glass Lewis included 148 of our 1713 selected peers. The peer group selected by Institutional Shareholder Services (“ISS”)(ISS) included only two3 of our 1713 selected peers. The rest of the peer group selected by ISS contained U.S.-based companies in the industrial and specialty chemicals, plastics, coatings, nickel and cobalt-based alloys, steel products and other industries – companies and industries whose market fundamentals are materially different from that of the precious metals mining industry. We understand that ISS’s internal policies prohibit its selectioninclusion of Canadian companies (which account for 1511 of our peers) and require that Hecla be compared to companies having only similar revenue instead of similar market capitalization or total assets. We believe that a fair compensation peer group, in terms of both industry profile and size, should not be selected for Hecla without including Canadian mining companies.

The committee reviewed an analysis of executive compensation levels at the 5025th, median, and 75th percentiles of the peer group and the survey data for positions comparable to those held by each of our NEOs. The committee also compared the target total cash compensation (base salary plus target STIP) and target total direct compensation (base salary plus target STIP plus the value of LTIP target) for each of the NEOs against these benchmarks. For retention and competitive considerations, in comparison to the peer group data or survey data applicable to each NEO’s position, we generally target each NEO’s total direct compensation at the median level and deliver compensation above or below these levels when warranted by individual performance.

In 2021,2023, total direct compensation (base salary, short- and long-term incentives) for our NEOs was targeted approximately at the approximate median percentile of the peer group.

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In 2021,2023, the committee also approved a separate peer group to be used specifically with regard to TSR, for purposes of our performance-based equity awards (PSUs)1,, discussed below,on page 59, which consisted of the following companies/funds:

 

Alamos Gold Inc. (NYSE: AGI)

  Fortuna SilverCoeur Mining, Inc. (NYSE: CDE)  New Gold Inc. (NYSE: NGD)

B2Gold Corp. (NYSE: BTG)

  FresnilloFirst Majestic Silver Corp. (NYSE: AG)  OceanaGoldCenterra Gold Inc. (NYSE: CGAU)
Centerra Gold

IAMGOLD Corporation (NYSE: IAG)

  GDX VectorsVan Eck Gold MinerMiners ETF (ARCX: GDX)  Pan American Silver Corp. (Nasdaq: PAAS)
Coeur

SSR Mining Inc. (Nasdaq: SSRM)

  GDXJ VectorsVan Eck Junior Gold Miners ETF (ARCX: GDXJ)  Pretium ResourcesEldorado Gold Corporation (NYSE: EGO)
Eldorado

Equinox Gold Corp. (NYSE: EQX)

  GLDOceana Gold ShareCorp. (OTCM: OCANF)  SLViShares Silver Trust (ARCX: SLV)
Endeavour Silver

Fresnillo PLC (OTC: FNLPF)

  Hochschild Mining plc (OTCM: HCHDF)  SSR MiningSPDR Gold Shares (ARCX: GLD)
Equinox

Torex Gold Resources Inc. (OTC: TORXF)

  IAMGOLD CorporationTorex Gold
First MajesticFortuna Silver

Mines Inc. (NYSE: FSM)
  

 

Our executive compensation peer group is different from our TSR peer group. When setting executive compensation, we use a peer group made up of those with whom we compete for talent. For the TSR peer group we use a set of companies and ETFs for which we compete for investment dollars.

The Compensation Committee Process and the Role of Management and Human Resources Department

Role of the Committee. The committee, consisting entirely of independent members (Rogers, Crumley, Stanley(Stanley, Johnson, and Boggs), has primary responsibility for executive compensation decisions. The committee carries out its responsibilities under a charter approved by the Board. The committee has the authority to approve all executive compensation, including our CEO’s (but not that of our independent directors, which is decided by the full Board). In 2021,2023, the committee did not receive assistance from an independent executive compensation consultant. The committee assessedevaluated the Company’s compensation arrangements to determine if their provisions and operation created undesired or unintentional risks of a material nature. The committee found that our compensation policies and practices do not create inappropriate or unintended material risk to the Company as a whole. See Compensation Risk Analysis on page 64.

Role of Independent Human Resources Department. In past years,2023, the committee has used a compensation consultant to perform executive compensation services solely on behalf of the committee. Since no significant concerns were raised by shareholders or proxy advisory firms during our most recent shareholder outreach, the committee decided not to use a compensation consultant during 2021 and instead haddetermined the Company’s human resources department had the capacity to review and evaluate our executive compensation program.program and develop comparisons with the programs and NEO compensation levels of our peer companies. In 2021,2023, the human resources department performed the following services:

 

evaluated the competitiveness of the total direct compensation package provided to Hecla’s executive officers; and specifically, compared Hecla’s current executive officer compensation with compensation provided to executives in similar roles at comparable peer organizations;

38     www.hecla-mining.com


Compensation Discussion and Analysis

evaluated the competitiveness of the total direct compensation package provided to Hecla’s executive officers; and specifically, compared Hecla’s current executive officer compensation with compensation provided to executives in similar roles at comparable peer group companies listed in the table on page 44;

 

�� 

reviewed updated information regarding Hecla’s executive compensation program and the positions to be benchmarked, including organization charts, position descriptions, current total compensation, and other relevant data;

reviewed last year’s peer group to determine if the included companies continue to be appropriate and if any additional companies should be considered for inclusion;

reviewed last year’s peer group to determine if the included companies continue to be appropriate and if any additional companies should be considered for inclusion, or removed from the peer group due to a merger, acquisition, etc.;

collected and analyzed compensation data from the most recent proxy filings of the peer group and summarized the market pay data and compared Hecla’s executive compensation levels to the peer group proxies;

collected and analyzed compensation data from the most recent proxy filings of the peer group and summarized the market pay data and compared Hecla’s executive compensation levels to the peer group proxies;

analyzed the year-over-year change in compensation levels for Hecla compared to each market data source;

analyzed the year-over-year change in compensation levels for Hecla compared to each market data source;

analyzed Hecla’s long-term incentive and equity practices compared to peers;

analyzed Hecla’s long-term incentive and equity practices compared to peers;

prepared a report to the committee summarizing the methodology used and findings; and

prepared a report to the committee summarizing the methodology used and findings; and

assisted the committee in meeting its obligation to issue a Compensation Committee Report recommending inclusion of the CD&A in the Proxy Statement.

assisted the committee in meeting its obligation to issue a Compensation Committee Report recommending inclusion of the CD&A in the Proxy Statement.

In June 2021,2023, Hecla’s human resources department presented its competitive analysis findings and recommendations to the committee. The competitive analysis provided detailed comparative data for each executive officer position and assessed each component of pay, including base salary, short- and long-term incentives and total target compensation, as well as the mix of compensation among these pay elements.elements across the Company’s peer group. The committee compared this information to the executives’ compensation by similarity of position. The committee also reviewed the Company’s performance and carefully evaluated each executive’s performance during the year against established goals, leadership qualities, operational performance, business responsibilities, career with Hecla, current compensation arrangements and long-term potential.

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46 | 2024 Proxy Statement

Role of Management. The committee considers input from the CEO in making determinations regarding our executive compensation program and the individual compensation of each NEO (other than the CEO). As part of our annual review process, the CEO reviews the performance of the other NEOs and their contribution to the overall performance of the Company. Approximately mid-year, the CEO presents recommendations to the committee regarding base salary adjustments, target STIP awards, stock-based grants, and LTIP unit grants, based on a thorough analysis of relevant market compensation data comparing Hecla with an applicable peer group within the mining industry. The CEO and Sr.Senior Vice President – CAOChief Administrative Officer also make recommendations to the committee regarding the Company’s short-term quantitative and qualitative goals, and long-term goals for the NEOs (other than the CEO), as well as recommendations regarding the participation in the Company’s stock-based compensation plans and amendments to the plans, as necessary.

Compensation Philosophy and Objectives

Management and the Board recognize that the mining industry is cyclical, influenced by market factors, and can include wide swings in the prices for precious metals, which are beyond our management’s control, andthat can significantly influence our profitability and share price. Further, we operate in a competitive and challenging industry, and the supply of mining executives is very limited, particularly in the United States. As a result, having a viable compensation strategy is critical to our success.

We expect top-level performance from our executive management team even during downturns in our industry and during periods of Company expansion. Accordingly, the criteria that the committee has established for our performance-based awards have sometimes been veryparticularly challenging to achieve. Nevertheless, even in years for which we have incurred a net loss, we have often performed better than most of our industry peers in key respects (e.g., reserves and resources). The committee considers this and other factors in evaluating discretionary awards.

Our compensation philosophy is to pay our NEOs competitive levels of compensation that best reflect their individual responsibilities and contributions to the Company, while providing incentives to achieve our business and financial objectives. While comparisons to compensation levels at companies in our peer group are helpful in assessing the overall competitiveness of our compensation program, we believe that our executive compensation program must also be internally consistent and equitable for the Company to achieve our corporate objectives.

The pay-for-performance philosophy of our executive compensation programs described in this Proxy Statement plays a significant role in our ability to produce strong operating, exploration, strategic, and financial results. It enables us to attract and retain a highly experienced and successful team to manage our business. The programs strongly support our business objectives and are aligned with the value provided to our shareholders. Further, as

2022 Proxy Statement    39


Compensation Discussion and Analysis

an executive’s level of responsibility within our organization increases, so does the percentage of total compensation that we link to performance – through the short- and long-term incentive programs, as well as share price performance.

In setting policies and practices regarding compensation, the guiding philosophy of the committee is to:

 

have compensation that is primarily at-risk and based on strategic objectives and tactical activities;

have compensation that is primarily at-risk and based on strategic objectives and tactical activities; and

acquire, retain, and motivate talented executives; and

acquire, retain, and motivate talented executives.

total direct compensation is set within a competitive range of our peer group to ensure that it is appropriate and is aligned with the level of position, experience, skills, and performance of the executive.

The committee believes that a mix of both cash and equity incentives is appropriate, as cash incentives reward executives for achieving both short- and long-term quantitative and qualitative goals, while equity incentives align the interests of our executives with those of our shareholders. In determining the amount of the cash and equity incentives, the committee considers each officer’s total compensation on both a short- and long-term basis to assess the retention and incentive value of their overall compensation.

We also maintain (or avoid) the following pay practices that we believe enhance our pay-for-performance philosophy and further align our NEOs’ interests with those of shareholders:

We DO Have thesePay for Performance – Best Practices

 

our shareholders have the opportunity annually to cast an advisory vote on our executive compensation;

incentive award metrics that are generally objective and tied to Company performance;

78.6% of CEO’s and 73.5% of the other NEOs’ pay is at risk;

63.4% of total compensation for the CEO is performance-based;

57.7% of total compensation for the other NEOs is performance-based;

 

our shareholders have the opportunity annually to cast an advisory vote on our executive compensation;

the compensation of identified peer companies based on industry and size criteria is considered to ensure that pay levels and program design for the NEOs are appropriate and competitive;

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incentive awards are heavily dependent upon our stock performance and are measured against objective financial metrics;

the majority of total direct compensation for executives is performance-based as well as equity-based to align executives’ rewards with sustained shareholder value;

total direct compensation is set within a competitive range of our peer group to ensure it is appropriate and aligned with the level of position, experience, skills, and performance of the executive;

actual realized total direct compensation and pay positioning are designed to fluctuate with, and be commensurate with, actual annual and long-term performance, recognizing company-wide and individual results;

 

we grant PSUPSUs that have value based on how our TSR ranksrank within our selected peer group and have no value if the share performance does not achieve the 5025th percentile in the peer group;

rigorous stock ownership requirements for our executive officers and directors;

robust stock ownership requirements for our executive officers and directors;

our change in control agreements contain double trigger payments and upon a change of control, contain no excise tax gross up provision;

our change in control agreements contain a double trigger provision and upon a change of control there is no excise tax gross up;

100% of the CEO’s STIP compensation is tied solely to Company performance;

time-based equity awards vest over a three-year period to promote retention;

time-based equity awards that generally vest over a three-year period to promote retention;

our Insider Trading Policy provides that directors and officers are prohibited from hedging or pledging any securities of the Company;

equity awards that are performance-based depend on relative share performance (as well as certain time-based service requirements);

each of the Company’s incentive plans (STIP, LTIP, KEDCP, and 2010 Stock Plan) have clawback provisions;

our Insider Trading Policy provides that directors and officers are prohibited from hedging or pledging any securities of the Company;

our NEOs, including our CEO, generally must remain employed with the Company through the payment date of their short- and long-term awards, or the awards are forfeited, except in the cases of death, disability, or in some cases retirement;

each of the Company’s incentive plans (STIP, LTIP, KEDCP, and 2010 Stock Plan) have clawback provisions;

our Insider Trading Policy prohibits all directors, executive officers, and certain other employees from purchasing or selling any Company securities three weeks before through two days after the public release of any of our periodic results, or at any other time during the year while in possession of material non-public information about the Company;

our NEOs, including our CEO, generally must remain employed with the Company through the payment date of their short- and long-term awards, or the awards are forfeited, except in the cases of death, disability, or in some cases retirement; and

compensation programs designed to discourage unnecessary or imprudent risk taking;

our Insider Trading Policy prohibits all directors, executive officers, and certain other employees from purchasing or selling any Company securities three weeks before through two days after the public release of any of our periodic results, or at any other time during the year while in possession of material non-public information about the Company.

caps on performance-based cash and equity incentive compensation; and

We DO NOT Have these

annual review and approval of executive compensation strategy.

Compensation Program – Best Practices

 

×

Repricing of stock options;we conduct an annual shareholder outreach program and use that input when considering our program decisions and pay practices;

×

Perquisites;we disclose our corporate performance goals and achievements relative to these goals;

×

Excise tax gross-ups;we devote considerable time to management succession planning and leadership development efforts;

we have a clawback policy that enables the Board to recoup compensation in the event of a financial restatement or misconduct, which mitigates compensation-related risk and complies with applicable SEC rules and NYSE listing standards. See “Clawback Policy” on page 62 for additional information;

we maintain robust stock ownership guidelines for executive officers and non-management directors. See “Non-Management Director Stock Ownership Guidelines” on page 34, and “Stock Ownership Guidelines for NEOs” on page 61 for additional information;

we prohibit our executive officers and all non-management directors, from engaging in any form of hedging transaction involving Hecla securities, holding Hecla securities in margin accounts and pledging stock as collateral for loans in a manner that could create compensation-related risk for the Company; and

×

Single-trigger change in control arrangements.we do not provide excise tax gross ups.

 

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Elements of Total Compensation

We have a multifaceted compensation program. For the year ended December 31, 2021,2023, our executive compensation program consisted of the following elements:

 

Pay Element

 MetricsPAY ELEMENTMETRICS / ObjectiveOBJECTIVES
 
 

Base Salary

 

Objective:Provide a fixed level of cash compensation for performing day-to-day responsibilities.

Key Feature:Designed to be at approximatelybelow the 50th50th percentile.

Terms:Paid semi-monthly.

Incentive Pay

 

 

STIPLOGO

 

Short-Term Incentive Pay(STIP)

Objective: Focus executives on achieving the Company’s short-term goals, and the performance steps necessary to achieve longer-term objectives.

Key Features:The Company’s STIP pool is targeted at a fixed percentage of all salaried employees’ targeted STIP award, but the actual bonus pool is based on achievement of Company goals. Some goals are quantitative, such as EBITDA, production, and AIFR, while others are qualitative and reflect strategic objectives and tactical activities. Many qualitative goals have quantitative components, such as “increase“improve mill recovery by 2.5%X%.” Weighting of the corporate performance is targeted at 50%55% quantitative corporate performance goals, 25%30% qualitative, and 25%15% that is determined at the discretion of the committee. Except for the CEO, executive incentive pay is based on a combination of corporate and individual performance.

Terms: Determined by the committee and paid in a single payment following the performance period. Awarded in the first half of each year. Designed to be awarded in cash but may be paid in equity (in full or part). Any NEO receiving a STIP award must be employed with the Company at the time of payment, except for a termination due to death or disability, or their award is forfeited.

If the participant meets these age and years of service requirements, their prorated portion for outstanding plan periods will be paid after the completion of those plan periods.
 

LTIP

Long-Term Incentive Pay(LTIP)

 

Objective:Focus executives on longer-term value creation as determined by the specific targets of the plan.

Key Features: Based on corporate goals achieved over a three-year performance period. A new three-year performance period begins each calendar year and performance units are granted in the first half of each year. Each three-year plan identifies key long-term objectives that are expected to create long-term value for shareholders such as increasing reserves and production, generating cash flow and shareholder returns.

Terms:Determined by the committee and paid in a single payment following the three-year performance period. Awarded in the first half of each year. Designed to be awarded in cash but may be paid in equity (in full or part). Any NEO receiving a LTIP award must be employed with the Company at the time of payment, or their award is forfeited, except in the cases of death, disability, or in some cases retirement. At the time of an employee’s retirement, in order to receive any LTIP award that otherwise becomes payable, the employee must at least be age: (i) 60 and have 15 or more years of service with the Company; (ii) 65 and have seven or more years of service with the Company; or (iii) 68. If the participant meets these age and years of service requirements, their prorated portion for outstanding plan periods will be paid after the completion of those plan periods.

 

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Compensation Discussion and Analysis

Pay Element

 Metrics / Objective

Equity

  
 

RSUsLOGO

 

RSUs

Objective:Align management’s interests with those of shareholders and provide incentive for NEOs to remain with the Company for the long term.

Key Features:RSU awards are denominated in sharescurrency value and delivered in stockshares with a vesting schedule of three years for NEOs.

Terms:RSUs are granted between May and August of each year. If a NEO leaves the Company for any reason, other than death, disability, or in some cases retirement, before the vesting date, they will forfeit their RSUs. Also, ifIf a NEO retires before their RSUs have vested, they must meet certain requirements in order for their RSUs to continue to vest based on the applicable vesting schedule. At the time of an employee’s retirement, in order to receive any unvested RSUs, the employee must at least be age: (i) 60 and have 15 or more years of service with the Company; (ii) 65 and have seven or more years of service with the Company; or (iii) 68.

 
 

PSUs

 

Objective:Provide incentive for NEOs to remain with the Company for the long term and to align the NEO’s interests with those of shareholders.

Key Features:PSUs realize more value the higher the TSR ranks within the selected peer group and have no value if the share performance falls below the 5025th percentile among the peer group.

Terms:PSUs are granted to the NEOs in the second quarter of each year and are based on a three-year TSR. If a NEO leaves the Company for any reason, other than death, disability, or in some cases retirement, before the vesting date, they will forfeit their PSUs. Also, ifIf a NEO retires before theirhis or her PSUs have vested, theyhe or she must meet certain requirements in order for their PSUs to continue to vest based on the applicable vesting schedule. At the time of an employee’s retirement, in order to receive any unvested PSUs, the employee must at least be age: (i) 60 and have 15 or more years of service with the Company; (ii) 65 and have seven or more years of service with the Company; or (iii) 68.

 
 

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PAY ELEMENTMETRICS / OBJECTIVES
 

KEDCP

 

Objective:Increased exposure to the Company to the extent deferred compensation is tied to the value of Hecla stock, while also providing a tax deferral opportunity and encouraging financial planning.

Key Features:Allows for the voluntary deferral of base salary, STIP pay, LTIP pay and equity award payouts.

Terms:Employee must make election in the previous year to defer in the coming year.

   
 
 

Benefits

 

Objective:Attract and retain highly qualified executives.

Key Features:Participation in retirement plans, partial company-paid health, dental and vision insurance, life insurance, and accidental death and dismemberment insurance.

Terms:Same terms for all U.S.-based executives. Non-U.S. executives receive similar benefits.

TotalTargeted Compensation Mix

Our executive compensation program – composed primarily of base salary, short- and long-term incentives, and equity awards – is intended to align the interests of our NEOs with the long-term interests of our shareholders. The program is designed to accomplish this by rewarding performance that results in an increase in the value of our shareholders’ investment in Hecla. We believe the proportion of at-risk, performance-based compensation should comprise a significant portion of executive pay.

2023 Target Compensation Structure

The following table lists total 2023 target compensation for the NEOs.

NEO

  Base
Salary
($)
   STIP
Target Award
($)
   LTIP
Target Award
($)
   Equity(1)
($)
   Total
($)
 

Baker

   825,000    1,031,250    990,000    1,430,000    4,276,250 

Lawlar

   379,500    379,500    362,250    373,750    1,495,000 

Clary

   345,000    345,000    341,550    345,000    1,376,550 

Brown

   330,000    231,000    311,850    313,500    1,186,350 

Sienko

   315,000    220,500    297,810    299,115    1,132,425 

Roberts

   483,000    483,000    517,500    575,000    2,058,500 

(1)

Consists of the target values for RSUs and PSUs as follows:

NEO

  RSUs
($)
   PSUs
($)
   

Total Equity

Award
Value
($)

 

Baker

   715,000    715,000    1,430,000 

Lawlar

   224,225    149,525    373,750 

Clary

   207,000    138,000    345,000 

Brown

   187,000    126,500    313,500 

Sienko

   178,515    120,600    299,115 

Roberts

   345,000    230,000    575,000 

(2)

Number of shares awarded is determined by dividing the value of the RSUs and PSUs awarded by the closing price of our common stock on the NYSE on June 21, 2023 ($5.05).

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Total Compensation Mix

The mix of compensation for our CEO and other NEOs, which we believe is similar to our peer group, is shown below.

CEO Mix of Target Pay

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Compensation Discussion and Analysis

Other NEO Mix of Target Pay

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2021 Target Compensation Structure. The following table lists total 2021 target compensation for the NEOs.

NEO

  Base
Salary
($)
   STIP
Target Award
($)
   LTIP
Target Award
($)
   Equity(1)
($)
   Total
($)
 

Baker

   700,000    770,000    810,000    1,000,000    3,280,000 

Lawlar

   265,000    185,500    270,000    280,000    1,000,500 

Roberts

   380,000    380,000    360,000    375,000    1,495,000 

Brown

   264,000    184,800    270,000    265,000    983,800 

Sienko

   265,000    185,500    270,000    250,000    970,500 

Hall*

   --    --    --    --    -- 
*

Retired in March 2021

(1)

Consists of the target values for RSUs and PSUs as follows:

NEO

  RSUs
($)
  PSUs
($)
  

Total Equity  

Award
Value
($)

Baker

    500,000    500,000    1,000,000

Lawlar

    170,000    110,000    280,000

Roberts

    225,000    150,000    375,000

Brown

    160,000    105,000    265,000

Sienko

    150,000    100,000    250,000

Hall

    --    --    --

Individual base salaries and STIP targets for the NEOs are based on the scope of each NEO’s responsibilities, individual performance, and market data. At the beginning of each year, we also define the key strategic objectives each NEO is expected to achieve during that year, which are evaluated and approved by the committee.

Overview of our Compensation Decisions and Results for 20212023

Summary

In 2021:2023:

 

base salaries of our NEOs were unchanged, except for our CEO, who received a 10.2% increase;

the assessment of our STIP corporate performance was 115% of target with quantitative factors contributing 31% (target of 50%), qualitative factors contributing 34% (target of 25%) and discretionary factors contributing 50% (target of 25%);

the 2019-2021 LTIP resulted in no payout to the NEOs; and

 

for base salaries of our NEOs were increased an average of 11.6% in response to our peer group analysis;

the 2019-2021 period, shareassessment of our STIP corporate performance was 80% of target with quantitative factors contributing 17% (target of 55%), qualitative factors contributing 38% (target of 30%) and discretionary factors contributing 25% (target of 15%);

the 2021-2023 LTIP resulted in a payout to the NEOs of $56.25 per unit compared to a target of $90 per unit, or 63% of target; and

PSU performance against the compensation peer group achieved above target results anddue to our TSR ranked second highestranking of 6th among the 1221 peers in our group. Asgroup for the 2021-2023 period earning a result,135% multiple. However, absolute TSR was negative, so the PSUs awarded in 2019 were issuedmultiple is limited to our NEOs.100%. See 2019-20212021-2023 PSU Results on page 5260 for further information.

Base Salary

Design. The committee targets NEO base salaries at approximatelyto be below the 50th percentile among Hecla’s peer group. An individual NEO’s base salary may be set above or below this range for that particular position, depending on the committee’s subjective assessment of the individual NEO’s experience, recent performance and expected future contribution, retention concerns, and the recommendation of our CEO (other than for himself). The committee does not use any type ofa quantitative formula to determine the base salary levellevels of any of the NEOs. The committee reviews NEO salaries at least annually as part of its overall competitive market assessment, as previously described. Typically, the committee makes annual salary adjustments in the middle of each calendar year, effective for the 12-month period from July 1 to June 30.

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Compensation Discussion and Analysis

Analysis and Decision. In June 2021,2023, the committee reviewed an analysis prepared by the Sr. Vice President – CAO. Except for Mr. Lawlar, dueCompany’s human resources department. The Committee adjusted each of the NEOs’ compensation (increases from 5% to his promotion15%) to Sr. Vice President and CFO in March 2021, and Mr. Baker, the NEO base salaries were not adjusted in 2021. Mr. Baker’s base salary was increased by 10.2% to bring his base salarybetter align their compensation levels to the 50th percentile.current peer group medians for 2023.

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The following table shows annual base salaries for all NEOs from July 1, 20202022 through December 31, 2021:2023:

Base Salary for NEOs July 1, 20202022 through December 31, 20212023

 

NEO

  

7/1/20 thru

6/30/2021

Salary
($)

   

7/1/2021 thru  

12/31/2021  

Salary  

($)  

  

7/1/22 thru

6/30/2023

Salary
($)

   

7/1/2023 thru 

12/31/2023

Salary

($)

 

Baker

   635,000    700,000  

Baker

Baker

Baker

   750,000    825,000 

Lawlar(1)

   170,000    265,000

Lawlar

Lawlar

Lawlar

Lawlar

   330,000    379,500 

Roberts

   380,000    380,000 

Clary

Clary

Clary

Clary

   300,000    345,000 

Brown

Brown

Brown

Brown

   264,000    264,000    300,000    330,000 

Sienko

   265,000    265,000 

Sienko

Sienko

Sienko

   300,000    315,000 

Hall(2)

   380,000    -- 

Roberts*

Roberts*

Roberts*

Roberts*

   420,000    483,000 

(1)

Prior to Mr. Lawlar’s promotion from Treasurer to Sr. Vice President & CFO in March 2021, his base salary was $170,000. Upon his appointment as Sr. Vice President and CFO, on March 1, 2021, his base salary was increased to $265,000.

(2)*

Mr. HallRoberts retired in March 2021.from the Company on December 15, 2023.

Incentive Plans

STIP

Consistent with Hecla’s pay-for-performance philosophy, substantially all salaried employees, including our NEOs, are eligible to participate in the STIP. Early in the year,In February 2023, the committee approvesreviewed and approved the proposed 2023 STIP goals. In February 2024, the committee reviewed the Company’s 2023 performance, and approved a companywide STIP pool that is available for payment to salaried employees, includingbased on the NEOs, the amount of which is based in part on Company performance during the year.performance.

Target Opportunities. Each NEO has a target STIP award expressed as a percentage of base salary. The target award is determined based on the following: market assessmentsanalysis and the committee’s market positioning policy;assessment; the individual NEO’s organization level, scope of responsibility and ability to impact Hecla’s overall performance; and internal equity among the NEOs. Actual awards are paid after the end of eachthe STIP performance period (usually end of March or beginning of April) and can range from 0% to 200% of the target awards, based on the committee’s assessment of ourthe Company’s actual performance and the achievement of an individual NEO’s goals. Having a limit on our STIP awards reduces the likelihood of windfalls to executives and encourages financial discipline. It is also competitiveconsistent with typical peer group practice.

For 2021,2023, target STIP award opportunities for the NEOs were as follows:

 

NEO

  

Target STIP

(% of base salary)

 

Phillips S. Baker Jr.

   110125%

Lawlar

   

100

Clary

100

Russell D. LawlarBrown

   70%

Sienko

   

70

Lauren M. RobertsRoberts*

   100%

 

Robert D. Brown

70%

David C. Sienko

70%

Lindsay A. Hall*

0%

*

Retired in March 2021Mr. Roberts retired from the Company on December 15, 2023.

Performance Measures and Components. Our management develops proposed targets and goals for each Company performance measure based on a variety of factors, including historical corporate performance, internal budgets, forecasts and growth targets, market expectations and strategic objectives. The committee reviews the targets

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Compensation Discussion and Analysis

and goals, and then creates a performance-based compensation strategy consistent with shareholder interests. The committee also believes that incentive compensation targets should be established to drive real and sustainable improvements in operating performance and the strategic position of the Company.

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The STIP includes the following components and relative weights:

 

quantitative corporate performance factors (measured from January to December) comprising 55% of the targeted award;

quantitative corporate performance factors (measured from January to December) comprising 50% of the targeted award;

qualitative goals (measured from February 2023 to February 2024) comprising 30% of the targeted award; and

qualitative goals (measured from February 2021 to February 2022) comprising 25% of the targeted award; and

a discretionary factor (measured from February 2021 to February 2022) as determined by the committee comprising 25% of the targeted award.

a discretionary factor (measured from February 2023 to February 2024) as determined by the committee comprising 15% of the targeted award.

Each component can achieve two times the target percentage, with the maximum total payout limited to two times the total target award level (200%).

Quantitative Corporate Performance Factors. For 2021,2023, the quantitative corporate performance factors under the STIP were divided into four factors (including weighting): production (20%), Adjusted EBITDA less capital (20%), AIFR reduction (5%Exploration (10%), and energy use intensity reductionESG (5%). The quantitative goals comprise 55% of the targeted STIP and can reach a maximum of 110%.

20212023 Production Metrics

 

2021 Production in Silver Equivalent Ounces (includes all metals)

   

 

Production Result

   

 

  Factor Value  

 

110%

    Maximum    40%  

 

 

 

100%

    Target    20%  

 

 

 

<96%

   

 

 

 

    0%  

 

 

 

   Production Result

2023 Production in Silver Equivalent Ounces (includes all metals)

Factor Value 

50M

Maximum40

47.5M

Target20

<42.75M

Minimum0

The production factor converts gold, lead, and zinc to silver equivalent at ratios of 78.082.5 oz. silver to 1 oz. gold, 23.0 lb.22 lbs. lead, and 14.0 lb.17 lbs. of zinc. We exceeded the budgeted production in gold, but fell slightly behind in silver, lead, and zinc. The combined metal production results were approximately 98% of budget. We converted gold, lead, and zinc to equivalent silver ounces at year-end budgeted actual prices. The 2021 production goals resulted in 98%Partially because of the target level,fire at the Lucky Friday mine, fires in Quebec, and weather events at Greens Creek, the combined metal production results were approximately 79% of budget. Our 2023 production fell below the minimum at 37.4 AgEq ounces and resulted in a factor value of 9.8%0%.

20212023 Adjusted EBITDA Less Capital Metrics

 

  

Factor Value

$250 mm

      MaximumFactor Value 

$130M

Maximum    40%

$70M

  

 

Target20

$160 mm55M

   Target20%

<$80 mm

Minimum
    0%

The Adjusted EBITDA less capital goal measures the cash generation of the Company. The Adjusted EBITDA less capital target was $160 million.$70 million8(6) Maximum payout would have been achieved if Adjusted EBITDA less capital was at least $250$130 million. There would have been no payout if For the same reasons as production and less contribution from Keno Hill, Adjusted EBITDA was less than threshold. Adjusted EBITDA less capital was less than $80 million. Actual adjusted EBITDA less capital was $164.9($31) million, which is between targetbelow the minimum and maximum levels. The Adjusted EBITDA less capital metric resulted in a 21.1% factor value.value of 0%.

AIFR MetricExploration Metrics

The 2023 exploration program was a two-part goal: (1) adding reserves (5%), and (2) adding resources (5%). Minimum was set at maintaining reserves at Greens Creek and Keno Hill and maintaining resources across the Company. Target was set at maintaining reserves across the Company and adding 10M AgEq ounces to resources. Maximum was set at adding 15M AgEq ounces to reserves, and 20M AgEq ounces to resources.

During 2023, our reserves decreased 34.5M AgEq ounces, and we added 95M AgEq ounces to resources. We achieved threshold in reserves but were below target at 4%. However, we exceeded the maximum for additional resources, which resulted in 2X target or 10%. The combined exploration factor was 14%.

 

AIFR Result

   

 

   Factor Value   

 

 

5%

   Maximum    10 

 

 

 

2.5%

   Target    5%  

 

 

 

<0%

     0 

 

8(6) 

Adjusted EBITDA less capital is a non-GAAP measurement. See Appendix A for a reconciliation to GAAP.

 

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2024 Proxy Statement | 53

ESG Metrics

AIFR

The AIFR target wasfinal quantitative goals are related to ESG metrics with three components. The first is a 2.5% reduction from the 2020 AIFR. Thresholdsafety goal which was set at the 2020 ratea 2% reduction from our 3-year trailing average, or an AIFR of 1.22. 1.274%. Our year-end 2023 3-year trailing average was 1.30. Threshold, Target, and Maximum rates were 1.30 (0% reduction), 1.274 (2% reduction), and 1.25 (4% reduction), respectively. Hecla’s actual AIFR for 20212023 was 1.45%1.45, which was an increase of 11.5% and resulted in a factor value of 0%.

 Reduction in AIFR

       Factor Value   

5%

      Maximum    7.5

2.5%

      Target    3.75

0%

   

 

   Minimum    0

Increase in ESG Scores

The purpose of this goal was to maintain or improve the ESG scores as provided by Sustainalytics. Target was set at maintaining our 2022 decile ranking as compared to our industry subgroup. An increase of one decile would result in the maximum payout. Failing to maintain our existing decile ranking would result in zero payout. We maintained our decile among peers in the industry subgroup, which resulted in a factor value of 1.5%.

 ESG Score Improvement

Factor Value  

Lowest Decile

Maximum3

Lowest Quartile

Target1.5

Below Median

Minimum0

Diversity of Management and Professional Staff

The purpose of this goal is to increase the ratio of women leaders within our management and senior professional staff. An increase of 5% was established as target and would result in a factor value of 1.5%, and an increase of 10% would be the maximum, or a factor value of 3%. The minimum was set at no increase and would result in a zero payout. In 2023, we increased our ratio of women to men professionals by 4.93%, which resulted in a factor value of 0%1.5%.

Energy Usage Intensity

 

Reduction in Energy

Use Intensity

   

 

  Factor Value  

 

4%

    Maximum    10%  

 

 

 

2%

    Target    5%  

 

 

 

<0%

       0%  

  Increase in Diversity

          Factor Value   

10%

  

 

   Maximum    3

5%

  

 

   Target    1.5

0%

  

 

   Minimum    0

This goal incentivizes the Company to reduce the amount of energy used to produce an equivalent ounce of silver. Threshold was set at a flat rate from 2020, and target was set at a 2% reduction. The 2021 energy use intensity increased by 3%, which resulted in a factor value of 0%.

Qualitative Corporate Performance Factors. In addition to quantitative corporate performance factors, our STIP has a component that is based on qualitative goals relating not only to Hecla as a whole, but also to each NEO. This component is targeted to account for 25%30% of the totaloverall potential STIP award but can account for 0% to 50%60% of the target award.

Qualitative objectives for NEOs are over onetwo hundred initiatives and tasks related to most aspects of Hecla’s business including, but not limited to: (i) safety and health, (ii) environmental, tailings, and permitting, (iii) technology and innovation,sustainability, (iv) continuous improvement,technical services, (v) operations, (vi) finance/financial/treasury/accounting/IT,tax, (vii) employee development,investor relations, (viii) human resources, (ix) information technology, (x) internal affairs, (xi) governmental affairs, (xii) closed operations, (xiii) mine life extension, exploration, and reserve growth, (ix) investor relations, (x) sustainability,(xiv) corporate development, (xv) legal, and (xi) legal.(xvi) board.

We met or exceededA majority of the qualitative goals were reached, but more importantly, many of the key qualitativestrategic operational goals and made substantial progress towards others in 2021. were successful. The committee assessed qualitative performance at 34%38%. The committee based its assessment on more than atwo hundred goals and initiatives, and the following are some of the goals that were achieved:

 

Greens Creek successfully reduced power costs;

Greens Creek substantially reduced dust from the tailings facility;

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secured control of additional priority lands near the Lucky Friday Mine;

developed a plan to address bottlenecks in the Lucky Friday Mine concentrator to utilize available grinding capacity;LOGO

modernized the Lucky Friday Mine underground bonus system with the use of the UCB mining method;

significantly improved the long-range plan at the Lucky Friday Mine;

54 | 2024 Proxy Statement

Completed the acquisition of ATAC Resources that has significant gold resources;

1.5 million tons milled, and produced 134,511 gold ounces at our Casa Berardi Mine;

Casa Berardi successfully insourced much of the surface mining at a lower cost than originally planned;

commenced the Hecla Leadership Program;

Casa Berardi changed the drill and blast contract saving $13 million over three years; and

resolved multiple litigation matters;

Investor relations program resulted in 8 of 10 analysts having buys with 2 holds.

replaced production and added an additional 20 million equivalent silver ounces;

saved $1 million in property insurance costs; and

underground mine life at the Casa Berardi Mine was extended in the long-range plan to 2027.

Discretionary FactorFactors. The final component of our STIP is at the discretion of the committee (based on Company and individual performance) and it is targeted to account for 25%15% of the total STIP award but can account for 0% to 50%30% of the target award. For 2021,2023, the committee determined the discretionary factor performance value to be at 50%25%. The committee based its assessment primarily on the following significant performance results by Hecla in 2021:2023:

 

 

recorded second highest free cash flow in Hecla’s historyfollowing the impoundment failure at $111.3 million;9

returned a total of $20.7 million in dividends to our common and preferred shareholders;

achieved net zero Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions;

had income and mining tax benefit of $29.6 million, driven primarily by recognizing the value from deferred tax assets;

reduced a component of the concentrate treatment costs at the Lucky Friday Mine from $25/ton to $3/ton over the next 3 years ($11 million savings in the long-range plan);

achieved strong vaccination rates at Greens Creek, Casa Berardi, and San Sebastian;

achieved significant progress in ESG reporting;

reduced enterprise risk regarding Lucky Friday concentrate sales;

increased engagement with analysts and investors;

recovered approximately $800,000 in insurance proceeds related to Johnny M litigation;

Casa Berardi Mine improved employee satisfaction and retention;

established the Hecla Environmental Science Endowment at the University of Alaska Southeast;

reduced our energy consumption/total kWh/tons milled by 16% from 2020;

9

A non-GAAP measurement. See Appendix A for reconciliationour Casa Berardi mine, management recognized the operating plan was not achievable and immediately initiated a program to GAAP.change the plan that was well implemented;

 

the team from our Lucky Friday mine and corporate have exceeded expectations of effort and results with a significantly safer operation, improved production, and a platform for success in 2024 and beyond at our Keno Hill Mine;

46     www.hecla-mining.com

following the fire at the Lucky Friday mine, the reconstruction was managed well, and the mine was brought back into production in January 2024;

generated $75.5 million in net cash provided by operating activities;

our Keno Hill Mine produced 1.5 million ounces of silver, with the Bermingham deposit achieving the highest mined tonnage in December, while initiating a safety action plan to build a strong operational foundation at the mine;

developed an improved process of reviewing reserves during the year;

at all sites, deployed Cynet Extended Detection Response platform to monitor network and endpoint activity;

conducted National Institute of Science and Technology cybersecurity self-score evaluation, which set the stage for the 2024 cybersecurity roadmap;

successfully managed high gold grade in silver concentrate, and exportation of Keno Hill concentrate;

created Absolute Humidity Forecast dashboard to reduce dust events at Greens Creek;

received a patent for our UCB mining method; and

insurance proceeds obtained for the Lucky Friday shaft fire.

Summary of 2023 STIP Results

In summary, 2023 was a difficult year for Hecla, due in large part to two abnormal events that occurred that were largely outside of Hecla’s control. The first event was the failure of the impoundment at Casa Berardi, and the second was the fire that occurred in the #2 shaft at our Lucky Friday mine. The impoundment failure contributed to the earlier than planned closure of the East mine, which significantly impacted gold production, and increased costs. Casa Berardi used the event to make some positive operational changes to improve efficiency at the mine, but regardless, the event precluded Casa Berardi from achieving its 2023 budgeted production and operating cash flow. Through the first six months of the year, the Lucky Friday mine performed very well. However, the shaft fire caused a shutdown of production for the second half of the year and resulted in elevated costs and lower than budgeted silver production. The Lucky Friday mine fell below target in both production and operating cash flow in 2023.

 

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Compensation Discussion and AnalysisLOGO

 

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2024 Proxy Statement | 55

In addition to these two events, our Keno Hill mine did not achieve budget levels for production or cash flow, and the Technical Report Summariessafety performance was unacceptable. Changes to mine management were made in December, and operating results are improving, but overall performance for 2023 was below expectations. Our Greens Creek mine performed well over the course of 2023. Both Greens Creek and Lucky Friday and Casa Berardi mines;

transitioned responsibility for Nevada accounting to corporate office;

identified a program in which the Quebec government will offset a portion of the cost of some projects through a discount to the hydropower cost; and

diversified risk regarding our bank counterparty for bullion purchases.

2021 STIP Measure Resultshad excellent safety results during 2023.

 

2023 STIP Results

  

Performance

Value

 

Quantitative

  

Production

10%*

Adjusted EBITDA less capital

21%*

AIFR

   0%

Energy Use IntensityAdjusted EBITDA less capital

   0%

QualitativeExploration

   3414%

DiscretionaryEnvironmental, Social & Governance

   503%

   AIFR (0%)

  

Total Performance Value   Increase in ESG Scores (1.5%)

   Diversity of Management and Professional Staff (1.5%)

Qualitative

   11538%

Discretionary

   25

Total Performance Value

*

Rounded to nearest whole number

80

NEO Year-end 2021 2023 Individual Performance. The STIP qualitative, quantitative, and discretionary factors resulted in a corporate performance that the committee concluded to be 115%80% of target. NEOs’ performance is based on a combination of corporate performance, individual goals, and the impact they have on shareholder value. The committee believes that our NEOs’ performance goals should support and help achieve the Company’s strategic objectives and be tied to their areas of responsibility. Individual performance goals for each NEO, except the CEO, were proposed by the CEO and reviewed and approved by the committee.

After the end of the year, our CEO reviews each of the other NEO’s progress against their individual performance goals and makes a recommendation to the committee. When making its award determinations, the committee did not assign a specific weighting to any of the individual’s goals, but instead reviewed each NEO’s progress against their individual goals in the aggregate. The following is a summary description of the performance goal results for each of the NEOs for 2021,2023, except our CEO, who is discussed separately on the following page.

 

Mr. Lawlar

  Year-end 2021 2023 Performance Results

  managed the insurance program and successfully worked to obtain insurance proceeds related to the 2023 fire at the Lucky Friday mine;

  managed working capital and debt facilities during the investment at Keno Hill and 6-month shutdown at the Lucky Friday mine; and

  worked with management at mine sites to ensure concentrate quality was within customer specifications.

Mr. Clary

  Year-end 2023 Performance Results

  Instrumental in managing Hecla’s cash position;  improved network service and security at all operations;

  Improved terms  increased the ratio of Lucky Friday concentrate sales;

•  Filling investor relations role;

•  Managed budget optimization model upgrade;female to male professionals; and

  Led marketing effort for property insurance, resulting in $1 million in savings.  enhanced recruiting programs at targeted universities.

Mr. RobertsBrown

  Year-end 2021 2023 Performance Results
  

  Successfully led a strong operating performance notwithstanding a tight labor market and ongoing challenges due to COVID-19;

•  Advanced the UCB mining method;

•  Improved tonnage rates and throughput at our Casa Berardi Mine; and

•  Advanced innovation and capital projects at our operating properties.

Mr. BrownYear-end 2021 Performance Results

•  Negotiated ore processing agreements with third party mills;

•  Facilitated  managed the acquisition of various mining interests;ATAC Resources in the Yukon, Canada;

  Instrumental  instrumental in developing and advancing our ESG program; and

  Successfully  successfully led the effort to achievemaintain net zero Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions in 2021.CO2e emissions.

Mr. Sienko

  Year-end 2021 2023 Performance Results
  

  Successfully  resolved multiple legalseveral regulator/litigation matters;

  Provided support  assisted in obtaining insurance proceeds; and

  assisted in obtaining a U.S. patent on contractual issues regarding capital projects; and

•  Assisted with various regulatory, financial, and tax matters.the UCB mining method.

 

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Compensation Discussion and AnalysisLOGO

 

56 | 2024 Proxy Statement

CEO Year-end 2021 2023 Performance. Mr. Baker’s STIP is based entirely on corporate performance. Under Mr. Baker’s leadership in 2021,2023, we recordedovercame significant operational challenges. Hecla reported the second largest silver reserves, largest gold resource, and second highest silver production and revenues in our history despite the Lucky Friday mine losing five months of production due to a fire. An underground fire in an active mine is one of the most serious and potentially consequential challenges a mining company can face. Mr. Baker exhibited strong leadership during the event, combining both caution and urgency during extinguishment of the fire and subsequent rehabilitation of affected infrastructure. The mine returned to production in early January 2024. During 2023, our Greens Creek mine achieved record throughput and generated $157.3 million in cash flow from operations and free cash flow inof $121.6 million. At Keno Hill, Mr. Baker responded to unacceptable safety performance during mine ramp-up by instituting significant personnel changes to assure Hecla’s standard safety systems and practices were fully implemented. At Casa Berardi, results from the Company’s history, returnedinitial transition to surface-only mining operations are exceeding expectations. Outside of Hecla, Mr. Baker continued his contributions to the industry as Chairman of The Silver Institute, a totalnon-profit international industry association representing companies across the breadth of $20.7 million in dividends to our common and preferred shareholders, achieved net zero Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions, improved operating performance at our mines, and increased ourthe silver equivalent ounce reserves. industry. The committee awarded Mr. Baker 115%90% of his targeted STIP award due to his leadership and the overall strong performance of the Company.

The committee evaluated each NEO’s performance in managing their functions, the progress they made towards their individual goals and the Company’s goals as discussed above, andas well as the overall success of the Company in 2021.2023. The NEOs completed various goals during the year, andbut the overall performance of the Company exceeded expectations during 2021.2023. As a result, the committee determined each of the NEO’s performance under the STIP to be between 100%78% and 130%93% of target.

20212023 STIP Award Summary. Based on the assessment by the committee of the Company’s overall performance on both quantitative and qualitative measures, as well as relevant discretionary factors under the STIP, the committee determined Company performance to be at 115% of target.

Set forth in the table below is each NEO’s target award and actual award, which was paid entirely in cash.cash or common stock at the election of the NEO.

 

Name

  Base Salary
($)
  Base Salary
Factor
(%)
  Target
STIP
($)
  % to
Target
(1)
(%)
  Actual
Award
(2)
($)

Phillips S. Baker, Jr.

    700,000    110    770,000    115    885,500 

Russell D. Lawlar

    265,000    70    185,500    100    185,500

Lauren M. Roberts

    380,000    100    380,000    110    418,000

Robert D. Brown

    264,000    70    184,800    129    237,600

David C. Sienko

    265,000    70    185,500    116    214,650

Lindsay A. Hall*

    --    --    --    --    --

Name

  Base Salary
($)
   

Base

Salary
Factor
(%)

   Target
STIP
($)
   % of
Target
(1)
(%)
   Cash
Award
(2)
($)
   

Shares
Received
in Lieu of
Cash
(3)

(#)

 

Baker

   825,000    125    1,031,250    90    928,125     

Lawlar

   379,500    100    379,500    80    303,600    68,378 

Clary

   345,000    100    345,000    85    293,250     

Brown

   330,000    70    231,000    92.86    214,500    48,311 

Sienko

   315,000    70    220,500    78.57    173,250    39,020 

Roberts(4)

   483,000    100    483,000             

*

Retired in March 2021. Upon his retirement, he forfeited any rights he may have had with respect to the 2021 STIP.

(1)

The percentages listed for each of the NEOs (other than Mr. Baker), generally include corporate achievement of goals and individual performance.

(2)

The amount reported in this column was paid in cash toor Hecla common stock, at the election of the NEO, and is included in the Summary Compensation Table for 20212023 on page 5767 under Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation. Messrs. Baker and Clary opted to take cash in lieu of common stock for their STIP awards. All other NEO’s took the common stock option.

(3)

Except for Messrs. Baker and Clary, all 2023 STIP awards were paid in Hecla common stock. Messrs. Baker and Clary elected to take the cash instead of common stock. The amount of shares was determined by dividing the cash value of the award by the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the NYSE on March 13, 2024 ($4.44).

(4)

Mr. Roberts retired on December 15, 2023, and was not eligible for the 2023 STIP.

LTIP

We use the LTIP to focus employees on meeting long-term (three-year) corporate performance goals. The LTIP is also designed to attract and retain employees in a highly competitive talent market.market for talent. The committee considers mining and general industry market practices, as well as the long-term objectives of the Company, when determining the terms and conditions of long-term incentive goals, such as resource additions, production, and cash flow generation.

Under the LTIP, a new performance period begins each calendar year and runs for three years. The three-year performance period recognizes that some value-creating activities require a significant period of time to be implemented and for measurable results to accrue. Starting a new performance period each year also gives the committee flexibility to adjust for new business conditions, circumstances, or priorities in setting the performance metrics and goals for each three-year cycle. Performance units are assigned to each NEO at the beginning of each three-year period and provide the basis for the amount of awards made to each NEO under the LTIP. Performance units are designed to encourage management to deliver long-term value. Performance units reinforce Hecla’s

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2024 Proxy Statement | 57

business strategy by clearly establishing our key performance elements (e.g., reserve growth, production growth, and cash flow) and the associated long-term performance objectives that must be met for us to be successful and create value for shareholders. Performance unitsLTIP awards are paid out in the first half of the year following the end of each performance period, upon approval by the committee. At the discretion of the committee, the payouts may be in the form of cash, common stock, or a combination of both.

Summary of 2019-20212021-2023 LTIP. In February 2019,2021, the committee approved the 2019-20212021-2023 LTIP, which differed from prior period LTIPs inhas a few respects. First, the number of measured performance goals was reduced from four to three. Second, the total target value of each$90 per unit was reduced from $100 to $90 (i.e., eachand a maximum potential value of $525 per unit. The 2021-2023 LTIP consists of three performance goals, plus a TSR multiplier. Payout under the LTIP takes place in late March or early April of the three measured

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Compensation Discussion and Analysis

performance goals have a target of $30). Third,year following the TSR factor, which was previously a stand-alone unit value factor, was removed and converted to a multiplier with a value of 10% to 250% based on relative performance. The multiplier was capped at 100% ifthree-year LTIP period, upon approval by the absolute share return was negative.committee.

The measured performance goals for the 2019-20212021-2023 LTIP were silver-equivalent reserve growth, production growth, and mine site operating cash flow (less capital).generation – as well as a positive or negative multiplier based on TSR. The committee concluded that these aregoals were important goals for the following reasons:

 

 

Silver equivalent reserve growth. Silver-equivalent reserve growth remains a fundamental value creator. We need to replace and add reserves to extend mine lives and grow production. This is critical to the achievement of our long-term success. In the context of this plan, reserves include the silver equivalent of gold but not base metals. Silver equivalent reserve and resource growth includesincluded gold converted to silver equivalent at a ratio of 78.0 silverone ounce of gold to 70.0 ounces to 1.0 gold ounce.of silver.

 

Production growth. One of the most important components of value creation is demonstrable production growth (includes silver and gold, but not base metals). The gold to silver ratio is set at 70.0. In order to incentivize consistent and sustained production growth, the performance value will be reduced by 10% for any year, within the three-year LTIP period when the production for the current year is lower than the production for the prior year.

 

Mine site operating cash flow less capital. The cash contribution goal takes into account capital expenditures at each of the mine sites.capital. We endeavor to ensure that each operating site generates free cash flow, and this net cash contribution goal reflects that operating philosophy. The silver and gold costs per ounce, production and capital expenditures at each mine site arewere those contained in our long-range plan for the three-year period. This goal also includes the impact associated with any acquisitions (or dispositions) of operating mine sites.

TSR is a key element of the LTIP because it provides a relative performance metric to our peers. This component of the LTIP is different than the other components in that the TSR serves as a multiplier (either positive or negative). This component insures alignment of the results of the other components with share performance. If our relative TSR performance is in the mid-range (7 (9th914th), the multiplier is 100% of the value achieved by the other three components, and thus has no positive or negative affect on the unit value earned. If our relative TSR is in the top 6,8, the multiplier is positive, and thus would enhance the unit value because the relative TSR was strong. If our relative TSR is in the bottom 6,9, the multiplier is negative. Ifnegative and would reduce the relative TSR is inoverall value earned through the top 3, the TSR multiplier is 250%.three-unit value factors. Regardless of the unit value earned by the unit value factors, in the event the absolute TSR is negative, the multiplier is limited to no greater than 100%. of the value earned by the unit value factors. In order to achieve maximum levels, we must maintain a positive TSR on an absolute basis. The 2019-2021 peer group consists of the following companies:

2021-2023 LTIP Targets and Results

 

IAMGOLDMeasured Performance Goal

  

New Gold

Target Amount
  

Alamos Gold

Actual Amount

Hochschild Mining

Fresnillo

First Majestic

B2Gold

Pan American Silver

Oceana Gold

Centerra Gold

Silver Standard

Detour Gold

Coeur d’Alene Mines

Endeavour Silver

2019-2021 LTIP Targets and Results

Measured Performance Goal

Target Amount

Silver-equivalent reserve growth (includes only gold)

  4 million AgEq  42033.0 million oz.AgEq

Production growth

  84 million AgEq  10878.0 million oz. (avg. of 36 million oz. per year)AgEq

Mine site operating cash flow less capital

  $775 million  $375($483) million

TSR

MedianAbove Median

Because noneReserve Growth. During the first two years of the 2021-2023 Plan period, we had strong growth in the reserves, but experienced a decrease in reserves in the third year. In 2021, reserves increased 35M AgEq ounces, largely due to drilling results. In 2022, reserves grew 29M AgEq ounces primarily due to the acquisition of Keno Hill. In 2023, reserves decreased 30M AgEq ounces primarily due to operational changes at Casa Berardi. Over the three measured performance goal targets were achievedyears, we replaced both production (78M AgEq) and reserves losses and increased our total reserve by 33M AgEq ounces from the beginning balance. The reserve growth program added about 1 year of mine life. The additional 33 million AgEq ounces resulted in a payout of $56.25 per unit.

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58 | 2024 Proxy Statement

Production Growth. Production growth was largely on target during 2021 and 2022, but below target in 2023 due to the underperformance at Keno Hill, fire at Lucky Friday, and East Mine closure at Casa Berardi. The 3-year summary resulted in the production of 78 million AgEq or 7% below target. The unit value for the 2019-2021 performance period,production component was $0.

Cash Flow. Cash flows for each unit received zero payout. This rendered the TSR elementyear of the three-year LTIP as inapplicable, even thoughperiod were far below threshold. The reason for the below threshold result was a combination of using fixed metals prices but actual expenditures during the LTIP period, under producing at Casa Berardi, Lucky Friday, and Keno Hill. The three-year mine site cash flow less capital was $483 million for the three-year period, but $292 million below target. The unit value for the cash flow component was $0.

TSR. Hecla’s relative TSR over the three-year LTIP period ranked 18stth among the 1423 peer companies (inclusive of Hecla). and earned a 135% multiple. However, because the absolute TSR over the three-year period was negative, according to the terms of the Plan, the multiplier is capped at 100% of the underlying unit value. The ranking of 1st placed us intotal value for the 250% multiple level. However, with no unit value component to apply the multiple, the overall2021-2023 LTIP performance was $0 per unit out of a targeted payout of $90is $56.25 per unit.

During this three-year period the results of our2021-2023 LTIP were negatively affected by COVID-19. For example, in 2020, COVID-19 restrictions inhibited our ability to perform definition drilling, which limited our ability to replace reserves. COVID-19 also created significant operational challenges in 2020, and to a lesser degree in 2021. These operational challenges played a role in our lower than targeted production. During the three-yearAward Summary

The 2021-2023 LTIP period our reserves dropped 190,000 silver-equivalent ounces from our baseline of 413 million equivalent ounces. The LTIP threshold was set at 420 million equivalent ounces, and as a result, no payout was achieved. Production over the LTIP period was 92.3 million silver-equivalent ounces, which was 85% of target, and resulted inachieved a payout of $0$56.25 per

2022 Proxy Statement    49


Compensation Discussion and Analysis

unit. The three-year mine site operating cash flow less capital unit, which was $156 million, but only 42% of$33.75, or 37% below target which resulted in a payout of $0 per unit. The committee considered modifying the LTIP targets for the 2019-2021 performance period to adjust for the effects of COVID-19, but ultimately chose to retain the original goals and thus the payable value was zero.

2019-2021 LTIP Award Summaryperiod.

The following chart shows the number of performance units awarded in 20192021 to each NEO. There was noNEO, the unit value achieved, under the 2019-2021total amount of the award (number of units x $56.25 = total award value). The committee approved the 2021-2023 LTIP and thusawards be paid in the NEOs did not receive an LTIP payout.form of Hecla common stock.

Name

  2021-2023
Performance
Units
(#)
   Unit
Value
($)
   

Total
Amount

of Award(1)

($)

   

Number of
Shares

Received(2)

(#)

 

Baker

   9,000    56.25    506,250    114,020 

Lawlar

   3,000    56.25    168,750    38,007 

Clary

   3,000    56.25    168,750    38,007 

Brown

   3,000    56.25    168,750    38,007 

Sienko

   3,000    56.25    168,750    38,007 

Roberts(3)

   4,000             

 

Name

2019-2021
Performance
Units
(#)
Unit
Value
($)
(1)

Total  
Amount  

of Award  

($)  The amount reported in this column was paid in equity to the NEO and is also reported (in its dollar value) in the Summary Compensation Table for 2023 on page 67 under “Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation.”

(2)

Phillips S. Baker, Jr.The equity of the 2021-2023 LTIP award was determined by dividing the cash value of the award by the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the NYSE on March 13, 2024 ($4.44).

10,000----  

Russell D. Lawlar

1,267(1)----  

Lauren M. Roberts

3,222(2)----  

Robert D. Brown

3,000----  

David C. Sienko

3,000----  

Lindsay A. Hall

4,000(3)----  

(1)(3)

Mr. Lawlar’s 2019-2021 LTIP units were prorated because he was not promoted to Sr. Vice President and CFO until March 2021.

(2)

Mr. Robert’s 2019-2021 LTIP units were prorated because he joined the Company in August 2019.

(3)

Mr. HallRoberts retired from the Company in March 2021. Upon his retirement, he forfeited his 2019-2021on December 15, 2023 and was not eligible for the 2021-2023 LTIP award.

Equity

We have no program, plan, or practice to time the grant of stock-based awards relative to the release of material non-public information or other corporate events. All equity grants to executive officers are approved by the committee at regularly scheduled meetings or, in limited cases involving key recruits or promotions, by a special meeting or unanimous written consent. The grant date is the meeting date, or a fixed, future date specified at the time of the grant. Under the terms of our 2010 Stock Plan, the fair market value of any award is determined by the closing price of our common stock on the NYSE on the date of grant or a fixed, future date specified at the time of grant. In addition, the committee typically makes equity grants to NEOs in the first half of the year.

RSUs

RSUs are granted to the NEOs under the 2010 Stock Plan. RSUs are used to (i) retain our NEOs, and (ii) to align their interests with the long-term interests of our shareholders. The committee awarded RSUs to each NEO in June 2021.2023. The RSUs vest in three equal amounts with vesting dates of June 21, 2022,2024, June 21, 2023,2025, and June 21, 2024.2026. See Grants of Plan-Based Awards for 20212023 on page 60.69.

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In December 2014, the committee amended the 2010 Stock Plan and KEDCP so that any RSUs vesting after 2014 would no longer be credited with dividend equivalents. In order to incentivize RSU recipients to continue working for the Company, RSU awards require both an age and years of service trigger in order to qualify for vesting of the RSUs as of the employee’s retirement. The 2010 Stock Plan provides that for purposes of the RSU awards, RSU recipients who retire under the Retirement Plan must be at least age: (i) 60 and have 15 or more years of service with the Company; (ii) 65 and have seven or more years of service with the Company; or (iii) 68, in order to receive their unvested RSUs after retirement. If one of the above requirements is met, the recipients will receive their RSUs on the applicable vesting dates. In 2018, we amended our 2010 Stock Plan to provide for a double-trigger vesting acceleration upon a change of control.

50     www.hecla-mining.com


Compensation Discussion and Analysis

In 2021,2023, we granted RSUs to approximately 100162 employees under the 2010 Stock Plan, including the NEOs as follows:

 

NEO

  Value of RSUs
Units
  

Number  

of Shares(1)   

Phillips S. Baker, Jr.

   $500,000    63,452  

Russell D. Lawlar

   $170,000    21,574  

Lauren M. Roberts

   $225,000    28,553  

Robert D. Brown

   $160,000    20,305  

David C. Sienko

   $150,000    19,036  

Lindsay A. Hall(2)

   $--    --  

NEO

  

Value of RSUs
Units

($)

   

Number

of Shares(1)

(#)

 

Baker

   715,000    141,584 

Lawlar

   224,225    44,401 

Clary

   207,000    40,990 

Brown

   187,000    37,030 

Sienko

   178,515    35,350 

Roberts(2)

   345,000    68,317 

(1)

Number of shares was determined by dividing the value of the RSUs awarded by the closing price of our common stock on the NYSE on June 21, 20212023 ($7.88)5.05).

(2)

Mr. Hall was not awardedRoberts retired on December 15, 2023, and as a result, any RSUs in 2021, as he retired in March 2021.remaining unvested restricted stock units were forfeited.

PSUs

We grant PSUs to certain executive officers, including our NEOs. The value of the awards is based on the ranking of the TSR performance of our common stock relative to the TSR performance of the common stock of a group of peer companies over a three-year measurement period. The number of shares to be issued is based on the target value of the awards divided by the share price at grant date. The compensation cost is measured using a Monte Carlo simulation to estimate their value at grant date.

In June 2021,2023, the committee granted PSUs to our NEOs with athe target valuevalues listed below. The value of these PSUs will be based on the TSR of our common stock for the three-year period from January 1, 2021,2023, through December 31, 2023,2025, based on the percentile rank listed below within a group of peer companies.

 

NEO

  Target Value of
PSUs
  

Number  

of Shares(1)   

Phillips S. Baker, Jr.

   $500,000    63,452  

Russell D. Lawlar

   $110,000    13,959  

Lauren M. Roberts

   $150,000    19,036  

Robert D. Brown

   $105,000    13,325  

David C. Sienko

   $100,000    12,690  

Lindsay A. Hall(2)

   $--    --  

NEO

  

Target Value of
PSUs

($)

   

Number

of Shares(1)

(#)

 

Baker

   715,000    141,584 

Lawlar

   149,525    29,609 

Clary

   138,000    27,327 

Brown

   126,500    25,050 

Sienko

   120,600    23,881 

Roberts(2)

   230,000    45,545 

(1)

Number of shares was determined by dividing the target value of the PSUs by the closing price of our common stock on the NYSE on June 21, 20212023 ($7.88)5.05).

(2)

Mr. Hall was not awarded any PSUs in 2021, as he retired in March 2021.

 

(2)

Mr. Roberts retired on December 15, 2023 and as a result, any unvested PSUs were forfeited.

Company TSR Rank Among Peers

  TSR Performance Multiplier

5025th percentile

  Threshold award at 50%25% of target

40th - 60th percentile

  Target award at grant value

100th percentile

  Maximum award at 200% of target

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If Hecla’s performance is below the 5025th percentile, the award is zero. If Hecla’s performance is between the 5040th and 10060th percentile, the award is at target. If Hecla’s performance is between the 60th and 100th percentiles, the award is prorated. For any award, the number of shares issued at the conclusion of the three-year performance period (December 31, 2023)2025), will be determined by using the share price on the date of original grant (June 21, 2021)2023) of $7.88.$5.05.

Hecla’s TSR performance versus that of our peer group will be based on a comparison of the average closing share price over the last sixty (60) calendar days prior to January 1, 2023 (the base price) with the average closing share price over the last sixty (60) calendar days of the three-year performance period to determine relative share value performance and ranking among peers.

The industry peer group used for purposes of the 2023-2025 TSR PSUs discussed above is listed on page 45.

2021-2023 PSU Results

In February 2024, the committee certified the results of the PSUs granted in 2021 to our executive officers. These PSUs had a three-year performance period ended December 31, 2023, with vesting and payout based on the Company’s TSR compared to our TSR peer group (consisting of 21 companies and funds) from January 1, 2021 through December 31, 2023. The following table shows the calculation of the PSU results at the end of the three-year performance period on December 31, 2023. During this three-year performance period, Hecla ranked 6th among the 21 peer group companies based on TSR from 2021 through 2023, which resulted in a payout percentage of 175% of the executives’ targeted PSU award values.

To determine the relative share performance, Hecla’s TSR performance versus that of TSR peer group companies was based on a comparison of the average closing share price over the last sixty (60) calendar days prior to January 1, 2021 (the base price) with the average closing share price over the last sixty (60) calendar days of the three-year performance period to determine relative share value performance and ranking among peers.

2022 Proxy Statement    51


Compensation Discussion and Analysis

The industry peer group used for purposes of the 2021-2023 TSR PSUs discussed above is listed on page 38.

2019-2021 PSU Results

In February 2022, the committee certified the results of the PSUs granted in 2019 to our executive officers. These PSUs had a three-year performance period ended December 31, 2021, with vesting and payout based on the Company’s TSR compared to our peer group (consisting of 12 companies) from January 1, 2019 through December 31, 2021. The following table shows the calculation of the PSU results at the end of the three-year performance period on December 31, 2021. During this three-year performance period, Hecla ranked 2nd relative to our peer companies, which resulted in a payout percentage of 91.97% of the executives’ targeted PSU award values.

To determine the relative share performance, Hecla’s TSR performance versus that of peer group companies was based on a comparison of the average closing share price over the last sixty (60) calendar days prior to January 1, 2019 (the base price) with the average closing share price over the last sixty (60) calendar days of the three-year performance period (ended December 31, 2021)2023).

The table below details the value of the PSUs based on the estimated outcome as of the date of grant. These values for the 20192021 PSUs are reflected in the applicable Grants of Plan-Based Awards for 20192021 tablefrom our 20202022 Proxy Statement, and the realized value of the common stock received upon settlement of the awards on February 28, 2022.26, 2024.

 

Executive

Target Number of
PSUs Granted in 2019  

(#)

Value of Awards
Reported as
Compensation in Year  
of Grant
(1)

($)

Number of 2019 PSUs  
Earned

(#)

Realized Value of  
Awards
(2)

($)

  

Target Number of
PSUs Granted in 2021

(#)

   

Value of Awards
Reported as
Compensation in Year
of Grant
(1)

($)

 

Number of 2021

PSUs Earned

(#)

 

Realized Value of
Awards
(2)

($)

 

Baker

 271,739 -- 520,833 2,999,998

Baker

Baker

Baker

   63,452    869,292   111,041   393,085 

Lawlar

Lawlar

Lawlar

Lawlar

   13,959    191,238   24,428   86,475 

Clary

Clary

Clary

Clary

   13,959    (3)   24,428   86,475 

Brown

Brown

Brown

Brown

   13,325    182,553   23,319   82,549 

Sienko

Sienko

Sienko

Sienko

   12,690    173,853   22,208   78,616 

Roberts

 74,627 -- 143,035 823,882

Brown

 62,500 -- 119,792 690,002

Sienko

 54,348 -- 104,167 600,002

Roberts

Roberts

Roberts

   19,036    260,793   (4)    

 

(1)

Consistent with the requirements of FASB ASC Topic 718, the value of PSUs is based on the estimated outcome as of the date of grant. In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718, this result is based on a relative TSR result modeled using a Monte Carlo simulation. The amounts in this column reflect the aggregate grant date fair value of the PSUs for accounting purposes determined in accordance with SEC rules, and do not reflect the actual economic value that was realized by the NEO at the end of the relevant three-year performance period.

(2)

Reflects the closing price of our common stock on February 28, 202226, 2024 ($5.76)3.54), the date on which the executive’s received the shares underlying their 20192021-2023 PSUs.

(3)

Mr. Clary was not listed as an NEO in our 2022 Proxy Statement, so his PSU grant was not previously reported.

(4)

Mr. Roberts retired on December 15, 2023, and as a result, his 2021-2023 PSUs were forfeited.

Other

Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan. We maintain the KEDCP, a nonqualified deferred compensation plan, under which participants may defer all or a portion of their annual base salary, performance-based compensation awarded under our STIP and LTIP, RSUs and PSUs granted under the 2010 Stock Plan. Participants may elect to have their deferred base salary, and cash STIP (cash or cashcommon stock) or LTIP awards valued based on Hecla(cash or common stock andstock) awards credited to aan investment (cash award) or stock account. account (for stock awards only).

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Deferred RSUs and PSUs aremay also be credited to a stock account. The KEDCP provides for discretionary matching contributions on base salary, STIP and LTIP amounts deferred to a stock account and discretionary Company contributions that are credited to a participant’s stock account. The deferral features promote alignment of the interests of participants with those of our shareholders. Investment accounts are credited monthly with an amount based on the prime rate for corporate borrowers. Participants receive distributions from their accounts only upon separation from service with us, a fixed date or schedule selected by the participant, death, disability, an unforeseeable emergency, or a change in control, as these events are defined under Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code. The amounts deferred are unfunded and unsecured obligations of Hecla, receive no preferential standing, and are subject to the same risks as any of our other general obligations. Additional details about the KEDCP are described in the narrative accompanying the Nonqualified Deferred Compensation for 20212023 table on page 65.75.

Benefits. We provide our employees with a benefits package that is designed to attract and retain the talent needed to manage Hecla. As part of that benefits package, most U.SU.S. salaried employees, including the U.S.

52     www.hecla-mining.com


Compensation Discussion and Analysis

NEOs, are eligible to participate in the Retirement Plan, health, vision, dental plans, PTO plans such as vacations and holidays, and our 401(k) plan, which includes matching contributions by Hecla of up to 6%, health, vision, dental coverage, and paid time off, including vacations and holidays.. Canadian NEOs are eligible to participate in a similar benefits package. NEOs are eligible to receive certain additional benefits, as described below. The committee intends for the type and value of such benefits offered to be competitive with general market practices.

Other Qualified and Nonqualified Benefit Plans. Under the Final Average Salary Retirement Plan, which is a defined benefit plan, upon normal retirement, participants in the final average salary plan are eligible to receive a monthly benefit equal to a certain percentage of their final average annual earningseligible Average Annual Earnings for each year of credited service. Participants in the cash balanceCash Balance Retirement Plan, which is a defined benefit plan, are eligible to take a lump sum distribution of their benefits. Additional details about the Retirement PlanPlans are in the narrative accompanying the Pension Benefits table on page 65.73. Under the unfunded SERP, the amount of any benefits not payable under the Retirement Plan because of the limitations imposed by the Internal Revenue Code and/or the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (“ERISA”), and certain reductions of benefits, if any, due to a deferral of salary made under our KEDCP, may be paid out of our general funds, or a Rabbi Trust, to employees who are adversely affected. The Retirement Plan and SERP definedefined eligible earnings for purposes of the plans to include base salary plus any other cash incentives up until July 1, 2013, after which only base salary plus one-half of STIP compensation is included (no LTIP compensation is included).

Personal Benefits. We do not provide company-paid cars, country club memberships, or other similar perquisites to our executives. The only material personal benefit provided by Hecla is a relocation benefit, which is offered as needed to meet specific recruitment needs.

Clawback Policy

In February 2013, the committee adopted a clawback policy with respect to incentive awards to executive officers. The policy provides that in the event of a restatement of our financial results as a result of material non-compliance with financial reporting requirements, the Board will review incentive compensation that was paid to our current and former executive officers under the Company’s STIP and LTIP (or any successor plans) based solely on the achievement of specific corporate financial goals (“Incentive Award”) during the period of the restatement. If any Incentive Award would have been lower had it been calculated based on the Company’s restated financial results, the Board will, as and to the extent it deems appropriate, including with respect to intent or level of culpability of the relevant individual(s), seek to recover from any executive officer, any portion of an Incentive Award paid in excess of what would have been paid based on the restated financial results. The policy does not apply in any situation where a restatement is not the result of material non-compliance with financial reporting requirements, such as any restatement due to a change in applicable accounting rules, standards or interpretations, a change in segment designations or the discontinuance of an operation.

In December 2015, the committee amended each of our incentive plans (STIP, LTIP, KEDCP, and 2010 Stock Plan) to include a clawback provision consistent with the clawback policy described above.

Insider Trading Policy

Our insider trading policy prohibits all directors, executive officers (as defined under Section 16 of the Exchange Act) and certain other employees designated as insiders from purchasing or selling any Company securities three weeks before through two days after the public release of any of our periodic results (including the filing of any Form 10-Q or Form 10-K), or at any other time during the year while in possession of material non-public information about the Company. In addition, directors and officers are prohibited from short-term trading, short sales, options trading, trading on margin, hedging or pledging any securities of the Company.

Change in Control Agreements

We have entered into change in control agreements (“CIC Agreements”) with each of our NEOs. Under the terms of our CIC Agreements, the CEO and the other NEOs are entitled to payments and benefits upon the occurrence of specified events, including termination of employment (with or without cause) following a change in control of the Company. The specific terms of these arrangements, as well as an estimate of the compensation that would have been payable had they been triggered as of calendar year-end, are described in detail in the section entitled Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control on page 66.

2022 Proxy Statement    53


Compensation Discussion and Analysis

The termination of employment provisions of the CIC Agreements are intended to address competitive concerns when the NEOs are recruited to Hecla by providing these individuals with a fixed amount of compensation that would offset the risk of leaving their prior employer or foregoing other opportunities to join the Company. At the time of entering into these arrangements, the committee considered the aggregate potential obligations of the Company in the context of the desirability of hiring the individual and their expected compensation upon joining Hecla.

The committee believes that these CIC Agreements are important for a number of reasons, including providing reasonable compensation opportunities in the unique circumstances of a change in control that are not provided by other elements of our compensation program. Further, change in control benefits, if structured appropriately, serve to minimize the distraction caused by a potential transaction and reduce the risk that key executives will leave Hecla before a transaction closes. The committee also believes that these agreements motivate the executives to make decisions that are in the best interests of our shareholders in the event of a pending change in control. These agreements provide executives with the necessary job stability and financial security during a change in control transaction and the subsequent period of uncertainty to help them stay focused on managing Hecla rather than on their own personal employment situation. The committee believes that all these objectives (i) serve our shareholders’ interests, (ii) are an essential component of the executive compensation program and, (iii) are necessary to attract and retain senior talent in the highly competitive talent market in which we compete.

The change in control provisions were developed by the Company and the committee based on market and industry competitive practices. The Company and the committee periodically review the benefits provided under the CIC Agreements to ensure that they serve our interests in retaining our key executives, are consistent with market and industry practice, and are reasonable.

54     www.hecla-mining.com


Compensation Discussion and Analysis

Tax and Accounting Considerations

Our compensation programs are affected by each of the following:

Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation. We consider certain requirements of GAAP in determining changes to policies and practices for our stock-based compensation programs.

Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code. Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (“Code Section 162(m)”), generally provides that compensation in excess of $1 million paid to the CEO and certain other employees, including NEOs (“covered employees”), of a public company will not be deductible for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

Our primary objective in designing and administering our compensation policies is to support and encourage the achievement of our strategic goals and to enhance long-term shareholder value. We also believe that it is important to preserve flexibility in administering compensation programs. For these and other reasons, the committee has determined that it will not necessarily seek to limit executive compensation to the amount that would be fully deductible under Code Section 162(m).

The committee will continue to monitor developments and assess alternatives for managing the deductibility of compensation payments and benefits to the extent reasonably practicable, as determined by the committee to be consistent with our compensation policies and in the best interests of the Company and our shareholders.

Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code. Section 409A imposes additional significant taxes in the event that an executive officer or director receives “deferred compensation” that does not satisfy the requirements of Section 409A. Our plans are intended to be exempt from, or comply with, Section 409A.

2022 Proxy Statement    55


COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION

The members of the Compensation Committee are set forth in the Compensation Committee Report. There are no members of the committee who were officers or employees of Hecla or any of our subsidiaries during the calendar year, formerly were officers of Hecla or any of our subsidiaries or had any relationship otherwise requiring disclosure under the proxy rules promulgated by the SEC or the NYSE.

COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT

The Compensation Committee has reviewed and discussed the CD&A with Hecla’s Sr. Vice President – CAO and based on its review and discussions, the committee recommended to the Board, and the Board has approved, the CD&A included in this Proxy Statement and incorporated by reference in Hecla’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021.

Respectfully submitted by

The Compensation Committee of the

Board of Directors

Terry V. Rogers, Chair

Catherine J. Boggs

Ted Crumley

Charles B. Stanley

56     www.hecla-mining.com


COMPENSATION OF NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

Summary Compensation Table for 2021

The following compensation tables provide information regarding the compensation of our CEO, CFO, and three other most highly compensated officers for the year ended December 31, 2021, determined in accordance with SEC rules. Also included is our former Sr. Vice President and CFO, who retired in March 2021.

Name and Principal

Position

  Year  Salary(1)
($)
  Stock
Awards
(2)
($)
 Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation
(3)
($)
  Change in
Pension
Value and
Non-Qualified
Deferred
Compensation
Earnings
(4)
($)
 All Other
Compensation
($)
 Total
($)

Phillips S. Baker, Jr.

President and CEO

    2021    664,792    1,370,005(5)    885,500    824,973   19,830(7)    3,765,100  
    2020    635,000    937,292   1,970,300    1,628,345   19,571   5,190,508
    2019    635,000    399,999   1,575,950    2,452,596   18,801   5,082,346

Russell D. Lawlar

Sr. Vice President and CFO

    2021    245,209    361,398(5)    185,500    39,682   19,270(7)    851,059

Lauren M. Roberts(8)

Sr. Vice President and COO

    2021    380,000    486,004(5)    418,000    314,706   19,830(7)    1,618,540
    2020    380,000    511,878   829,563    275,046   9,151   2,005,638
    2019    142,501    225,000   214,783    53,083   3,453   638,820

Robert D. Brown(9)

Vice President – Corporate Develop. & Sustainability

    2021    264,000    342,705(5)    237,600    73,393(6)    19,440(7)    937,138
    2020    264,000    363,661   404,280    111,007   19,065   1,162,013
    2019    264,000    150,000   390,150    140,532   18,750   963,432

David C. Sienko

Vice President – General Counsel

    2021    265,000    323,999(5)    214,650    43,798   19,389(7)    866,836
    2020    256,875    341,254   432,875    207,581   19,009   1,257,594
    2019    250,000    150,000   437,750    308,601   18,345   1,164,696

Lindsay A. Hall(9), (10)

Former Sr. Vice President and CFO

    2021    95,000    --(5)    --    181,600(6)    29,462(7)    306,062
    2020    380,000    511,878   981,000    208,234   19,065   2,100,177
    2019    380,000    225,000   724,250    254,053   18,750   1,602,053
(1)

Salary amounts include base salary both earned and paid in cash during the fiscal year listed.

(2)

Represents RSUs awarded, and PSUs granted in each of fiscal years 2021, 2020 and 2019. The amounts represent the aggregate grant date fair value of the awards granted to each NEO computed in accordance with stock-based accounting rules (FASB ASC Topic 718). Assumptions used in the calculation of these amounts are included in Note 12 – Stockholders’ Equity to our calendar year 2021 consolidated financial statements, which is included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on February 22, 2022 (the “Form 10-K”). RSUs generally vest in three substantially equal annual installments beginning on June 21 of the year following the date of grant. Consistent with the requirements of FASB ASC Topic 718, the value of PSUs is based on the estimated outcome as of the date of grant. In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718, this result is based on a relative TSR result modeled using a Monte Carlo simulation. Please see the Grants of Plan-Based Awards for 2021 table on page 60 for more information about the awards granted in 2021. The amounts in this column reflect the aggregate grant date fair value of the PSUs for accounting purposes determined in accordance with SEC rules and do not reflect the actual economic value that may be realized by the NEO at the end of a relevant three-year performance period.

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Compensation of Named Executive Officers

(3)

This column represents the performance payments awarded and earned by the NEOs for the calendar years 2021, 2020 and 2019 under our STIP and for the LTIP plan periods 2019-2021, 2018-2020 and 2017-2019. The 2021 STIP was paid in cash, and there was no 2019-2021 LTIP paid. The 2020 STIP and 2018-2020 LTIP awards were paid in cash, and the 2019 STIP was paid in cash, while the 2017-2019 LTIP awards were paid in common stock of the Company. The awards for each of the plan years are as follows:

Name  Year  STIP
Award
($)
  LTIP Plan
Period
  LTIP
Units
(#)
 Unit
Value
($)
  LTIP
Award
($)
  Total STIP
and LTIP
($)
  Total STIP
and/or
LTIP
Paid in
Cash
($)
  Total
STIP
and/or
LTIP
Paid in
Shares
(#)

Baker

    2021    885,500    2019-2021    10,000   --    --    885,500    885,500    --
    2020    1,206,500    2018-2020    11,400   67.00    763,800    1,970,300    1,970,300    --
    2019    444,500    2017-2019    11,400   99.25    1,131,450    1,575,950    444,500    621,676

Lawlar

    2021    185,500    2019-2021    1,267(i)    --    --    185,500    185,500    --

Roberts

    2021    418,000    2019-2021    3,222(ii)    --    --    418,000    418,000    --
    2020    703,000    2018-2020    1,889(ii)    67.00    126,563    829,563    829,563    --
    2019    159,600    2017-2019    556(ii)    99.25    55,183    214,783    159,600    30,320

Brown

    2021    237,600    2019-2021    3,000   --    --    237,600    237,600    --
    2020    203,280    2018-2020    3,000   67.00    201,000    404,280    404,280    --
    2019    92,400    2017-2019    3,000   99.25    297,750    390,150    92,400    163,599

Sienko

    2021    214,650    2019-2021    3,000   --    --    214,650    214,650    --
    2020    231,875    2018-2020    3,000   67.00    201,000    432,875    432,875    --
    2019    140,000    2017-2019    3,000   99.25    297,750    437,750    140,000    163,599

Hall

    2021    --    2019-2021    4,000(iii)    --    --    --    --    --
    2020    646,000    2018-2020    5,000   67.00    335,000    981,000    981,000    --
    2019    228,000    2017-2019    5,000   99.25    496,250    724,250    228,000    272,665

(i)

Mr. Lawlar’s 2019-2021 LTIP units were prorated because he was not appointed Sr. Vice President and CFO until March 2021.

(ii)

Mr. Robert’s 2017-2019, 2018-2020 and 2019-2021 LTIP units were prorated because he joined the Company in August 2019.

(iii)

Mr. Hall retired from the Company in March 2021. Upon his resignation his 2019-2021 LTIP units were forfeited.

(4)

The amounts reported in this column for 2021 are changes between December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2021 in the actuarial present value of the accumulated pension benefits. Pension values will typically increase from year-to-year due to increasing age, years of service, and average annual earnings, and can fluctuate significantly due to changes in the assumptions used to determine the present value. The Change in Pension Value and Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Earnings column is calculated pursuant to SEC requirements and is based on assumptions used in preparing the Company’s audited financial statements for the applicable calendar years. Specifically, the interest discount rate used in the calculations is based on the rates of return available on fixed income investments which can significantly change year-to-year affecting comparability with the prior year. The Change in Pension Value and Nonqualified Deferred Compensations Earnings increased from 2020 to 2021 due to the participants’ higher age, years of service, and average annual earnings. However, the increased value was partially offset due to an increase in the discount rate from 2.64% on December 31, 2020 to 2.86% at December 31, 2021. For example, Mr. Baker’s Change in Pension Value and Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Earnings would have been $245,000 higher if the discount rate had not increased by 0.22% from the prior year. For this reason, the Company cautions that the values reported in the Change in Pension Value and Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Earnings column may not represent the value that an NEO will actually accrue, or receive, under the Company’s retirement plans during any given year.

(5)

Includes: (i) RSUs granted to each NEO on June 21, 2021, and (ii) PSUs awarded to each NEO on June 21, 2021. See Grants of Plan-Based Awards for 2021 table on page 60 and PSUs on page 51 for a description of the PSUs.

(6)

As non-U.S. citizens, Mr. Hall and Mr. Brown are not participants in the Retirement Plan, but they do participate in the SERP. In lieu of participation in the Retirement Plan, Mr. Hall and Mr. Brown are expected to receive a similar supplemental benefit as if they had participated in this plan. See Retirement Plan on page 72 for a description of non-U.S. employee’s retirement benefits.

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Compensation of Named Executive Officers

(7)

Includes the following:

 NEO

  Matching
401(k)
Contribution
($)
 Annual
Life
Insurance
Premium
($)
 Other
($)
 Total
($)

Baker

    17,400   2,430   --   19,830  

Lawlar

    17,400   1,870   --   19,270  

Roberts

    17,400   2,430   --   19,830  

Brown

    17,400(i)    2,040(ii)    --   19,440  

Sienko

    17,400   1,989   --   19,389  

Hall

    --(i)    233(ii)    29,229(iii)    29,462  

(i)

These amounts are paid to Mr. Hall and Mr. Brown in lieu of the 401(k) match. Canadian employees are excluded from participation in the 401(k) Plan. Mr. Hall and Mr. Brown are paid in Canadian funds. The amounts reported are in U.S. dollars based on the applicable exchange rates as reported by the Bank of Canada from time-to-time.

(ii)

Life insurance premium is paid in Canadian funds.

(iii)

Mr. Hall’s “Other” is vacation payout at the time of his retirement.

(8)

Mr. Roberts deferred the amount of $292,603 to the KEDCP in 2021. The amount reported in this table is the total amount of base salary and/or STIP and LTIP cash compensation he received before his deferrals. See Nonqualified Deferred Compensation for 2021 on page 65 for further information.

(9)

Mr. Hall and Mr. Brown receive their compensation in Canadian funds. The amounts reported for Mr. Hall and Mr. Brown are in U.S. dollars based on the applicable exchange rates as reported by the Bank of Canada from time-to-time during this time period.

(10)

Mr. Hall retired in March 2021.

2022 Proxy Statement    59


Compensation of Named Executive Officers

The following table shows all plan-based awards granted to the NEOs during 2021.

Grants of Plan-Based Awards for 2021

     

 

Estimated Future Payouts
Under
Non-Equity Incentive Plan
Awards

  Estimated Future Payouts
Under Equity Incentive Plan
Awards
  All Other
Stock
Awards:
Number of
Shares of
Stock or
Units
(#)
  Grant
Date
Fair Value
of Stock
and
Option
Awards
(1)
($)
 

Name

 Grant
Date
  Threshold
($)
  Target
($)
  Maximum
($)
  Threshold
(#)
  Target
(#)
  Maximum
(#)
 

Phillips S. Baker, Jr.

         

RSUs(2)

  6/21/21         63,452   500,002 

PSUs(3)

  6/21/21      31,726   63,452   126,904   63,452   870,003 

LTIP(4)

   --   810,000   4,725,000      

STIP(5)

   --   770,000   1,540,000      

Russell D. Lawlar

         

RSUs(2)

  6/21/21         21,574   170,003 

PSUs(3)

  6/21/21      6,980   13,959   27,918   13,959   191,395 

LTIP(4)

   --   270,000   1,575,000      

STIP(5)

   --   185,500   371,000      

Lauren M. Roberts

         

RSUs(2)

  6/21/21         28,553   224,998 

PSUs(3)

  6/21/21      9,518   19,036   38,072   19,036   261,006 

LTIP(4)

   --   360,000   2,100,000      

STIP(5)

   --   380,000   760,000      

Robert D. Brown

         

RSUs(2)

  6/21/21         20,305   160,003 

PSUs(3)

  6/21/21      6,663   13,325   26,650   13,325   182,702 

LTIP(4)

   --   270,000   1,575,000      

STIP(5)

   --   184,800   369,600      

David C. Sienko

         

RSUs(2)

  6/21/21         19,036   150,004 

PSUs(3)

  6/21/21      6,345   12,690   25,380   12,690   173,995 

LTIP(4)

   --   270,000   1,575,000      

STIP(5)

   --   185,500   371,000      

Lindsay A. Hall(6)

   --   --   --   --   --   --   --   -- 
(1)

The RSU amounts represent the aggregate grant date fair value of the awards granted to each NEO computed in accordance with stock-based accounting rules (FASB ASC Topic 718). Assumptions used in the calculation of these amounts are included in Note 12 – Stockholders’ Equity to our calendar year 2021 consolidated financial statements, which is included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on February 22, 2022 (the “Form 10-K”). RSUs generally vest in three substantially equal annual installments beginning on June 21 in the year following the date of grant. Consistent with the requirements of FASB ASC Topic 718, the value of PSUs is based on the estimated outcome as of the date of grant. In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718, this result is based on a relative TSR result modeled using a Monte Carlo simulation. The amounts in this column reflect the aggregate grant date fair value of the PSUs for accounting purposes determined in accordance with SEC rules and do not reflect the actual economic value that may be realized by the NEO at the end of the relevant three-year performance period.

(2)

Represents the number of RSUs granted on June 21, 2021 to the NEOs under the terms of the 2010 Stock Plan. The restrictions generally lapse for one-third of the RSUs on June 21, 2022, June 21, 2023, and June 21, 2024, at which time the units are converted into shares of our common stock. The grant date fair value of the RSUs is the number of RSUs multiplied by the closing price of the Company common stock on the grant date of June 21, 2021 ($7.88).

(3)

Represents the number of PSUs granted under the 2010 Stock Plan, having a target value for each NEO of: Mr. Baker, $500,000; Mr. Lawlar, $110,000; Mr. Hall, $0; Mr. Roberts, $150,000; Mr. Brown, $105,000; and Mr. Sienko, $100,000, with the potential of up to 200% of this target value (subject to specific performance terms and conditions established for these PSUs) awarded to the NEOs under

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Compensation of Named Executive Officers

the 2010 Stock Plan. Determination of the actual number of shares to be received in settlement of these PSUs will be based on the TSR of Hecla common stock for the three-year period from January 1, 2021 through December 31, 2023, based on the following percentile rank within peer group companies:

100th percentile rank = maximum award at 200% of target;

60th percentile rank = target award at grant value;

50th percentile rank = threshold award at 50% of target.

Hecla’s TSR performance versus that of peer group companies will be based on a comparison of the average share price over the last 60 calendar days prior to January 1, 2021 (as the base price) with the average share price the last 60 calendar days of the three-year performance period, plus dividends, to determine relative share value performance and ranking among peers.

(4)

Represents the potential value of the payout for each NEO under the 2021-2023 LTIP period if the threshold, target, or maximum goals are satisfied for all performance measures. The potential payouts are performance-driven and therefore completely at-risk. The business measurements and performance goals for determining the payout are described in the CD&A starting on page 48. Dollar amounts shown are valued as follows on a per unit basis: Threshold, $0; Target, $90; and Maximum, $525. The number of units awarded to each NEO for the 2021-2023 LTIP period are as follows:

NEO

2021-2023 LTIP
Units
(#)

Baker

9,000

Lawlar

3,000

Roberts

4,000

Brown

3,000

Sienko

3,000

Hall

--

(5)

Represents the potential value of the payout for each NEO under the 2021 STIP described in the CD&A starting on page 44. The total payout to each NEO under the 2021 STIP is described in footnote 3 to the Summary Compensation Table for 2021 on page 58.

(6)

Mr. Hall retired from the Company in March 2021.

2022 Proxy Statement    61


Compensation of Named Executive Officers

The following table provides information on the current holdings of stock awards by the NEOs. This table includes unvested RSUs and unvested PSUs. There were no unexercised stock options held by any NEO at year-end.

Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End for 2021

   Stock Awards

Name

  Number of
Shares or
Units
of Stock
That
Have Not
Vested
(1)
(#)
  Market
Value of
Shares or
Units of
Stock That
Have
Not
Vested
(2)
($)
  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
(3)
($)

Phillips S. Baker, Jr.

    223,923    1,168,878   

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

          132,013(4)    689,108
          63,452(5)    331,219

Russell D. Lawlar

    43,833    228,808   

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

          13,959(5)    72,866

Lauren M. Roberts

    115,371    602,237   

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

          49,505(4)    258,416
          19,036(5)    99,368

Robert D. Brown

    82,682    431,600   

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

          34,653(4)    180,889
          13,325(5)    69,557

David C. Sienko

    79,213    413,492   

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

          33,003(4)    172,276
          12,690(5)    66,242

Lindsay A. Hall

    --    --    --   --
(1)

The following table shows the dates on which the RSUs in the outstanding equity awards table vest and the corresponding number of shares, subject generally to continued employment through the vest date.

   Number of Unvested Restricted Stock Units

Vesting Date

  Baker  Lawlar  Roberts  Brown  Sienko  

June 21, 2022

    137,617    22,851    71,583    51,545    50,022  

June 21, 2023

    65,155    13,791    34,271    24,369    22,846  

June 21, 2024

    21,151    7,191    9,517    6,768    6,345  
   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

    223,923    43,833    115,371    82,682    79,213  
   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
(2)

The market value of the RSUs is based on the closing market price of our common stock on the NYSE as of December 31, 2021, which was $5.22.

(3)

The market value of the PSUs is based on the closing market price of our common stock on the NYSE as of December 31, 2021, which was $5.22.

(4)

Award of PSUs, the value of which will be determined based on the TSR of Hecla common stock for the three-year period from January 1, 2020 through December 31, 2022. For purposes of determining the amounts reflected in this column, it is assumed that threshold performance was achieved as of the end of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021.

(5)

Award of PSUs, the value of which will be determined based on the TSR of Hecla common stock for the three-year period from January 1, 2021 through December 31, 2023. For purposes of determining the amounts reflected in this column, it is assumed that threshold performance was achieved as of the end of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021.

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Compensation of Named Executive Officers

The following table shows information concerning the number of stock awards that vested during calendar year 2021 for each of the NEOs, and the value realized on the vesting of stock awards during calendar year 2021.

Stock Vested in 2021

    Stock Awards

Name

  Number of
Shares
Acquired
on Vesting
(#)
 

Value  

Realized on  

Vesting  

($)  

Phillips S. Baker, Jr.

    43,516(1)    342,906  
    72,464(2)    571,016  
    44,005(3)    346,759  
    520,833(4)    2,999,998  

Russell D. Lawlar

    4,351(1)    34,286  
    9,058(2)    71,377  
    6,601(3)    52,016  

Lauren M. Roberts

    37,313(2)    294,026  
    24,753(3)    195,054  
    143,035(4)    823,882  

Robert D. Brown

    17,407(1)    137,167  
    27,174(2)    214,131  
    17,602(3)    138,704  
    119,792(4)    690,002  

David C. Sienko

    15,231(1)    120,020  
    27,174(2)    214,131  
    16,502(3)    130,036  
    104,167(4)    600,002  

Lindsay A. Hall(5)

    --   --  
(1)

The NEOs were granted these RSUs on June 19, 2018. On June 21, 2021, the restrictions lapsed, and each NEO received his units in the form of shares of our common stock. The value realized was based on the closing sales price of our common stock on the NYSE on June 21, 2021, which was $7.88.

(2)

Messrs. Baker, Lawlar, Brown and Sienko were granted these RSUs on June 21, 2019. Mr. Roberts was granted his RSUs on August 5, 2019, the date of his appointment as Sr. Vice President and COO. On June 21, 2021, the restrictions lapsed, and each NEO received his units in the form of shares of our common stock. The value realized was based on the closing sales price of our common stock on the NYSE on June 21, 2021, which was $7.88.

(3)

The NEOs were granted these RSUs on June 22, 2020. On June 21, 2021, the restrictions lapsed, and each NEO received his units in the form of shares of our common stock. The value realized was based on the closing sales price of our common stock on the NYSE on June 21, 2021, which was $7.88.

(4)

Reflects the PSUs earned for the 2019-2021 performance period that ended on December 31, 2021, because performance targets were met. The value shown as realized on vesting is based on the closing price of our common stock on the NYSE on February 28, 2022 ($5.76), which was the date on which the executive’s received the shares underlying their PSUs. See 2019-2021 PSU Results on page 52 for further information.

(5)

Mr. Hall retired from the Company in March 2021. Any unvested RSUs or PSUs he had at the time of his retirement were forfeited and did not vest.

2022 Proxy Statement    63


Compensation of Named Executive Officers

Stock Ownership Guidelines for NEOs

We believe that it is important to encourage our executive officers to hold a material amount of our common stock and to link their long-term economic interest directly to that of our shareholders. To achieve this goal, in June 2012, the committee and Board established stock ownership guidelines for the Company’s senior management. The guidelines for the CEO are six times base salary, and for the other executive officers, two times base salary. These guidelines must be achieved by the later of (i) June 2017 or (ii) five5 years after the executive officer is hired or promoted to such position. Unvested RSUs and shares held directly are considered owned for purposes of the guidelines. If an executive officer becomes subject to a greater ownership amount due to a promotion or an increase in base salary, they must meet the higher ownership requirement within three years.

Because of fluctuations in the Company’s stock price, in February 2016, the committee and the Board amended the stock ownership guidelines to provide a valuation methodology that consists of valuing the shares held by using the average closing price of the Company’s common stock on the NYSE for the previous calendar year. Because share prices of all companies are subject to market volatility, the Board believes that it would be unfair to require an executive to buy more shares simply because Hecla’s stock price drops. In the event there is a significant decline in Hecla’s stock price that causes an executive’s holdings to fall below the applicable threshold, the executive will not be required to purchase additional shares to meet the threshold, but they generally may not sell or transfer any shares until the threshold has again been achieved.

The following table summarizes the NEO stock ownership guidelines and their status as of December 31, 2021, based on the average closing price of our common stock on the NYSE for calendar year 2021 ($6.3576). With the exception of Mr. Lawlar, who is not yet required to meet the minimum shareholding requirements due to assuming his current role in March 2021, as of December 31, 2021,2023, all other NEOs metmeet the guidelines. In the calculations for our NEOs, we include shares directly held, shares held in their 401(k) account, and unvested RSUs. We do not include unexercised stock options or unvested performance-based shares.

NEO Stock Ownership as of December 31, 2021

NEO

  Annual
Base
Salary
($)
  X
Annual
Base
Salary
  Total
Value of
Shares to
be Held
($)
  Shares
Held
Directly
(#)
 Unvested
RSUs
(#)
  Total
Shares
(#)
  Total Value
of Shares
Held by NEO
at 12/31/21
($6.3576)
(1)
($)
  Meets
Guidelines

Baker

    700,000    6x    4,200,000    4,135,831(2),(3)    223,923    4,359,754    27,717,572    Yes

Lawlar

    265,000    2x    530,000    13,289(3)    43,833    57,122    363,159    No

Roberts

    380,000    2x    760,000    447,166(2),(3)    115,371    562,537    3,576,385    Yes

Brown

    264,000    2x    528,000    211,238   82,682    293,920    1,868,626    Yes

Sienko

    265,000    2x    530,000    584,853(3)    79,213    664,066    4,221,866    Yes
(1)

The value of shares held is determined by using the average closing price of the Company’s common stock for the calendar year on the NYSE, which for 2021 was $6.3576.

(2)

Includes 1,795,964 shares for Mr. Baker and 339,119 shares for Mr. Roberts deferred under the KEDCP.

(3)

Except for Mr. Brown, includes Hecla Mining Company common shares held in such officer’s 401(k) account.

Additional information regarding shares held by our NEOs is included in the Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management table on page 75.88.

 

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Compensation of Named Executive OfficersLOGO

 

62 | 2024 Proxy Statement

Clawback Policy

In August 2023, we amended our clawback policy to comply with the new SEC and NYSE rules. Under our clawback policy, in the event of an accounting restatement, the Company will reasonably promptly seek to recover erroneously awarded incentive compensation from executive officers. A finding of misconduct by such executive officers, or a finding of responsibility for any accounting error leading to an accounting restatement, shall not be a requirement for seeking recovery of the erroneously awarded compensation. In the event of a restatement of our financial results as a result of material non-compliance with financial reporting requirements, the Board will review incentive compensation that was paid to our current and former executive officers under the Company’s STIP and LTIP (or any successor plans), based solely on the achievement of specific corporate financial goals (“Incentive Award”) during the three completed fiscal years immediately preceding the accounting restatement date. If any Incentive Award would have been lower had it been calculated based on the Company’s restated financial results, the Board will, unless determined to be impracticable, seek to recover from any executive officer, any portion of an Incentive Award paid in excess of what would have been paid based on the restated financial results.

The policy does not apply in any situation where a restatement is not the result of material non-compliance with financial reporting requirements, such as any restatement due to a change in applicable accounting rules, standards or interpretations, a change in segment designations or the discontinuance of an operation.

Insider Trading Policy

Our insider trading policy prohibits the Company, all directors, executive officers (as defined under Section 16 of the Exchange Act) and certain other employees designated as insiders from purchasing or selling any Company securities three weeks before through two days after the public release of any of our periodic results (including the filing of any Form 10-Q or Form 10-K). That same group, including all, not just certain employees are prohibited by the same policy, from purchasing or selling any Company securities at any other time during the year while in possession of material non-public information about the Company. In addition, directors and officers are prohibited from short-term trading, short sales, options trading, trading on margin, hedging or pledging any securities of the Company. We believe our insider trading policy is reasonably designed to promote compliance with insider trading laws, rules and regulations, and any listing standards applicable to Hecla.

Change in Control Agreements

We have entered into change in control agreements (“CIC Agreements”) with each of our NEOs. Under the terms of our CIC Agreements, the CEO and the other NEOs are entitled to payments and benefits upon the occurrence of specified events, including termination of employment (with or without cause) following a change in control of the Company. The specific terms of these arrangements, as well as an estimate of the compensation that would have been payable had they been triggered as of calendar year-end, are described in detail in the section titled Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control on page 76.

The committee believes that these CIC Agreements are important for a number of reasons, including providing reasonable compensation opportunities in the unique circumstances of a change in control that are not provided by other elements of our compensation program. Further, change in control benefits, if structured appropriately, serve to minimize the distraction caused by a potential transaction and reduce the risk that key executives will leave Hecla before a transaction closes. The committee also believes these agreements motivate the executives to make decisions that are in the best interests of our shareholders in the event of a pending change in control. These agreements provide executives with the necessary job stability and financial security during a change in control transaction and the subsequent period of uncertainty to help them stay focused on managing Hecla rather than on their own personal employment situation. The committee believes that all these objectives (i) serve our shareholders’ interests, (ii) are an essential component of the executive compensation program and, (iii) are necessary to attract and retain senior talent in the highly competitive talent market in which we compete.

The change in control provisions were developed by the Company and the committee based on market and industry competitive practices. The Company and the committee periodically review the benefits provided under the CIC Agreements to ensure that they serve our interests in retaining our key executives, are consistent with market and industry practice, and are reasonable.

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2024 Proxy Statement | 63

Tax and Accounting Considerations

Our compensation programs are affected by each of the following:

Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation. We consider certain requirements of GAAP in determining changes to policies and practices for our stock-based compensation programs.

Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code. Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (“Code Section 162(m)”), generally provides that compensation in excess of $1 million paid to the CEO, Chief Financial Officer, and certain other employees, including NEOs (“covered employees”), of a public company will not be deductible for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

Our primary objective in designing and administering our compensation policies is to support and encourage the achievement of our strategic goals and to enhance long-term shareholder value. We also believe that it is important to preserve flexibility in administering compensation programs. For these and other reasons, the committee has determined that it will not necessarily seek to limit executive compensation to the amount that would be fully deductible under Code Section 162(m).

The committee will continue to monitor developments and assess alternatives for managing the deductibility of compensation payments and benefits to the extent reasonably practicable, as determined by the committee to be consistent with our compensation policies and in the best interests of the Company and our shareholders.

Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code. Section 409A imposes additional significant taxes in the event that an executive officer or director receives “deferred compensation” that does not satisfy the requirements of Section 409A. Our plans are intended to be exempt from, or comply with, Section 409A.

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LOGO

Compensation Risk Analysis

LOGO

The committee has engaged in a thorough risk analysis of our compensation plans, programs, policies, and practices for all employees. This includes advice from the Company’s Senior Vice President – Chief Administrative Officer describing the executive compensation program, and describing risk mitigation characteristics, if any, of the Company’s short- and long-term incentive programs. For the following reasons, the committee believes the design of our compensation programs, the governance of our programs, and our risk oversight process guard against imprudent risk taking that could have a material adverse effect on the Company.

Compensation Program Design Protections

our base pay programs consist of competitive salaries that provide a fixed level of income on a regular basis. This mitigates incentives on the part of our executives and employees to take unnecessary or imprudent risks;

the Board reviews the Company’s strategic plan and long-term financial and operational plans, and approves the capital budget, which serve as the basis for setting short- and long-term incentive goals. Goals are intended to drive shareholder value and are set relative to the approved budget, historical and future expected performance, and a reasonable amount of stretch so they do not encourage imprudent risk taking;

our short-term incentive program provides variable pay opportunities for certain position levels based on achievement of multiple short-term performance goals. Goals are set at reasonable levels and payouts are managed as a percentage of pay;

the maximum awards that may be paid to executive officers under the short- and long-term incentive programs are capped, and the committee retains the discretion to reduce payouts under the plans;

the largest amount of executive incentive compensation opportunity is generally tied to long-term incentive compensation that emphasizes sustained Company performance over time. This reduces the incentive for executives and other employees to take risks that might increase short-term compensation at the expense of longer-term Company results; and

equity awards have multi-year vesting, and RSU awards for executives are counted towards their stock ownership guidelines. This aligns the long-term interests of our NEOs and other executives with those of our shareholders and discourages taking short-term risks at the expense of longer-term performance.

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Compensation Committee    Interlocks and Insider    Participation

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The members of the committee are set forth in the Compensation Committee Report. There are no members of the committee who were officers or employees of Hecla or any of our subsidiaries during the calendar year. Mr. Johnson was an executive officer of Hecla from 1983 to 1999, as well as for Hecla’s subsidiary, Hecla Limited. Mr. Johnson currently receives a monthly retirement and SERP payment from the Company for his years of service. There are no other relationships requiring disclosure under the proxy rules promulgated by the SEC or the NYSE.

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Compensation Committee Report

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The committee has reviewed and discussed the CD&A with Hecla’s CEO and Senior Vice President – Chief Administrative Officer, and based on its review and discussions, the committee recommended to the Board, and the Board has approved, the CD&A included in this Proxy Statement and incorporated by reference in Hecla’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023.

Respectfully submitted by

The Compensation Committee of the

Board of Directors

Charles B. Stanley, Chair

Catherine J. Boggs

George R. Johnson

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Compensation Of Named

Executive Officers

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Summary Compensation Table for 2023

The following compensation tables provide information regarding the compensation of our CEO, Senior Vice President – Chief Financial Officer, and three other most highly compensated officers for the calendar year ended December 31, 2023, determined in accordance with SEC rules.

Name and

Principal

Position

  Year  Salary(1)
($)
  Stock
Awards
(2)
($)
 Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation
(3)
($)
 Change in
Pension
Value and
Non-Qualified
Deferred
Compensation
Earnings
(4)
($)
 All Other
Compensation
($)
 

    Total    

($)

 

Phillips S. Baker, Jr.

CEO

    2023    784,375    1,216,206(5)    1,434,375   685,029   22,569(8)    4,142,554
    2022    722,917    1,205,255   2,630,625      21,069   4,579,866
    2021    664,792    1,370,005   885,500   824,973   19,830   3,765,100

Russell D. Lawlar

Senior Vice President – Chief Financial Officer

    2023    352,688    329,041(5)    472,350   38,428   22,569(8)    1,215,076
    2022    294,792    306,052   674,891      20,818   1,296,553
    2021    245,209    361,398   185,500   39,682   19,270   851,059

Michael L. Clary(9)

Senior Vice President – Chief Administrative Officer

    2023    320,625    303,738(5)    462,000   1,353,530   22,463(8)    2,462,356
    2022    281,042    282,509   778,688      20,711   1,362,950

 

Robert D. Brown(10)

Vice President – Corporate Development & Sustainability

    2023    315,000    275,679(5)    383,250   86,114(6)    8,066(8)    1,068,109
    2022    282,000    268,235   761,250      20,415   1,331,900
    2021    264,000    342,705   237,600   73,393   19,440   937,138

David C. Sienko

Vice President – General Counsel

    2023    306,875    263,057(5)    342,000   (7)    22,420(8)    934,352
    2022    281,042    268,235   671,250      20,711   1,241,238
    2021    265,000    323,999   214,650   43,798   19,389   866,836

Lauren M. Roberts

Former Senior Vice President – Chief Operating Officer

    2023    448,875    506,230(5)       287,623   29,999(8)    1,272,727
    2022    398,336    470,849   1,041,000   133,033   21,069   2,064,287
    2021    380,000    486,004   418,000   314,706   19,830   1,618,540

(1)

Salary amounts include base salary both earned and paid in cash during the calendar year listed.

(2)

Represents RSUs awarded, and PSUs granted in each of the calendar years for 2023, 2022 and 2021. The amounts represent the aggregate grant date fair value of the awards granted to each NEO computed in accordance with stock-based accounting rules (FASB ASC Topic 718). Assumptions used in the calculation of these amounts are included in Note 12 – Stockholders’ Equity to our calendar year 2023 consolidated financial statements, which is included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on February 15, 2024 RSUs generally vest in three substantially equal annual installments beginning on June 21 of the year following the date of grant. Consistent with the requirements of FASB ASC Topic 718, the value of PSUs is based on the estimated outcome as of the date of grant. In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718, this result is based on a relative TSR result modeled using a Monte Carlo simulation. Please see the Grants of Plan-Based Awards for 2023 table on page 69 for more information about the awards granted in 2023. The amounts in this column reflect the aggregate grant date fair value of the PSUs for accounting purposes determined in accordance with SEC rules and do not reflect the actual economic value that may be realized by the NEO at the end of a relevant three-year performance period.

(3)

This column represents the performance payments awarded and earned by the NEOs for the calendar years 2023, 2022 and 2021 under our STIP and for the LTIP plan periods 2021-2023, 2020-2022, and 2019-2021. The 2021 STIP and 2022 STIP awards were paid in cash. The 2020-2022 LTIP awards were paid in cash. There was no payout for the 2019-2021 LTIP. At the election of the NEO, the award for the 2023 STIP was paid

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either in cash or in common stock of the Company, and the 2021-2023 LTIP award was paid 100% in common stock of the Company. See 2023 STIP Award Summary table on page 56 for the amount of shares received by each NEO. The awards for each of the plan years are as follows:

Name

  Year  STIP
Award
($)
  LTIP Plan
Period
  LTIP
Units
(#)
  Unit
Value
($)
  LTIP
Award
($)
  

  Total STIP  

and LTIP
($)

Baker

    2023    928,125    2021-2023    9,000    56.25    506,250    1,434,375

 

    2022    1,640,625    2020-2022    8,000    123.75    990,000    2,630,625
 

 

    2021    885,500    2019-2021    10,000            885,500

Lawlar

    2023    303,600    2021-2023    3,000    56.25    168,750    472,350

 

    2022    419,100    2020-2022    2,067    123.75    255,791    674,891
 

 

    2021    185,500    2019-2021    1,267            185,500

Clary

    2023    293,250    2021-2023    3,000    56.25    168,750    462,000
 

 

    2022    525,000    2020-2022    2,050    123.75    253,688    778,688

Brown

    2023    214,500    2021-2023    3,000    56.25    168,750    383,250

 

    2022    390,000    2020-2022    3,000    123.75    371,250    761,250
 

 

    2021    237,600    2019-2021    3,000            237,600

Sienko

    2023    173,250    2021-2023    3,000    56.25    168,750    342,000

 

    2022    300,000    2020-2022    3,000    123.75    371,250    671,250
 

 

    2021    214,650    2019-2021    3,000            214,650

Roberts*

    2023        2021-2023                

 

    2022    546,000    2020-2022    4,000    123.75    495,000    1,041,000
 

 

    2021    418,000    2019-2021    3,222            418,000

*

Mr. Roberts retired on December 15, 2023, and as a result, he was not eligible for the 2023 STIP or 2021-2023 LTIP awards.

(4)

The amounts in this column for 2023 are changes between December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 in the actuarial present value of the accumulated pension benefits.

(5)

Includes: (i) RSUs granted to each NEO on June 21, 2023, and (ii) PSUs awarded to each NEO on June 21, 2023. See Grants of Plan-Based Awards for 2023 table on page 69 and PSUs on page 59 for a description of the PSUs.

(6)

As a non-U.S. citizen, Mr. Brown is not a participant in the Retirement Plan, but he does participate in the SERP. In lieu of participation in the Retirement Plan, Mr. Brown is expected to receive a similar supplemental benefit as if he had participated in this plan. See Retirement Plan on page 73 for a description of non-U.S. employee’s retirement benefits.

(7)

During 2023, Mr. Sienko became eligible for an early retirement under the Pension Plan. While Mr. Sienko earned more service time in 2023, the present value of his accumulated pension benefit decreased ($18,803) due to calculating the value of an early retirement as opposed to the value of an ordinary retirement at age 65. Per SEC rules, we have shown zero in this column of the Summary Compensation Table for Mr. Sienko for calendar year-end 2023 rather than his negative change in pension value.

(8)

Includes the following:

NEO

  

 

Matching
401(k)
Contribution
($)

  

 

Annual Life

Insurance
Premium
($)

  

Unused

Vacation

($)

   

Total
($)

 

 

Baker

   19,800   2,769       22,569 

Lawlar

   19,800   2,769       22,569 

Clary

   19,800   2,663       22,463 

Brown

   6,600(i)   1,466(ii)       8,066 

Sienko

   19,800   2,620       22,420 

Roberts

   19,800   2,769   7,430    29,999 

(i)

This amount was paid to Mr. Brown in lieu of the 401(k) match. Canadian employees are excluded from participation in the 401(k) Plan. Mr. Brown is paid in Canadian funds. The amounts reported are in U.S. dollars based on the applicable exchange rates as reported by the Bank of Canada from time-to-time.

(ii)

Life insurance premium is paid in Canadian funds.

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(9)

Mr. Clary was appointed Senior Vice President – Chief Administrative Officer in July 2021, but was not an NEO for calendar year-end 2021.

(10)

Mr. Brown receives his compensation in Canadian funds. The amount reported for Mr. Brown is in U.S. dollars based on the applicable exchange rates as reported by the Bank of Canada from time-to-time during this time period.

The following table shows all plan-based awards granted to the NEOs during 2023.

Grants of Plan-Based Awards for 2023

  

 

  

 

 Estimated Future Payouts
Under
Non-Equity Incentive Plan
Awards
 Estimated Future Payouts
Under Equity Incentive Plan
Awards
 All Other Stock
Awards:
Number of
Shares of
Stock or Units
(#)
 

 

Grant Date
  Fair Value of  

Stock and
Option
Awards
(1)
($)

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

Phillips S. Baker, Jr.

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

RSUs(2)

   6/21/23  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

   141,584   714,999

PSUs(3)

   6/21/23  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

   35,396   141,584   283,168  

 

 

 

   501,207

LTIP(4)

  

 

 

 

      990,000   6,930,000  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

STIP(5)

   

 

 

 

 

 

      1,031,250   2,062,500   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

Russell D. Lawlar

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

RSUs(2)

   6/21/23  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

   44,401   224,225

PSUs(3)

   6/21/23  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

   7,402   29,609   59,218  

 

 

 

   104,816

LTIP(4)

  

 

 

 

      362,250   2,535,750  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

STIP(5)

   

 

 

 

 

 

      379,500   759,000   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

Michael L. Clary

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

RSUs(2)

   6/21/23  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

   40,990   207,000

PSUs(3)

   6/21/23  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

   6,832   27,327   54,654  

 

 

 

   96,738

LTIP(4)

  

 

 

 

      341,550   2,390,850  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

STIP(5)

   

 

 

 

 

 

      345,000   690,000   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

Robert D. Brown

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

RSUs(2)

   6/21/23  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

   37,030   187,002

PSUs(3)

   6/21/23  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

   6,263   25,050   50,100  

 

 

 

   88,677

LTIP(4)

  

 

 

 

      311,850   2,182,950  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

STIP(5)

   

 

 

 

 

 

      231,000   462,000   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

David C. Sienko

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

RSUs(2)

   6/21/23  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

   35,350   178,518

PSUs(3)

   6/21/23  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

   5,970   23,881   47,762  

 

 

 

   84,539

LTIP(4)

  

 

 

 

      297,810   2,084,670  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

STIP(5)

   

 

 

 

 

 

      220,500   441,000   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

Lauren M. Roberts*

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

RSUs(2)

   6/21/23  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

   68,317   345,001

PSUs(3)

   6/21/23  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

   11,386   45,545   91,090  

 

 

 

   161,229

LTIP(4)

  

 

 

 

      517,500   3,622,500  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

STIP(5)

   

 

 

 

 

 

      483,000   966,000   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

*

Mr. Roberts retired from Hecla on December 15, 2023. He is not eligible to receive any RSUs, PSUs, LTIP or STIP awards.

(1)

The RSU amounts represent the aggregate grant date fair value of the awards granted to each NEO computed in accordance with stock-based accounting rules (FASB ASC Topic 718). Assumptions used in the calculation of these amounts are included in Note 12 – Stockholders’ Equity to our calendar year 2023 consolidated financial statements, which are included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on February 15, 2024 (the “Form 10-K”). RSUs generally vest in three substantially equal annual installments beginning on June 21 in the year following the date of

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grant. Consistent with the requirements of FASB ASC Topic 718, the value of PSUs is based on the estimated outcome as of the date of grant. In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718, this result is based on a relative TSR result modeled using a Monte Carlo simulation. The amounts in this column reflect the aggregate grant date fair value of the PSUs for accounting purposes determined in accordance with SEC rules and do not reflect the actual economic value that may be realized by the NEO at the end of the relevant three-year performance period.

(2)

Represents the number of RSUs granted on June 21, 2023 to the NEOs under the terms of the 2010 Stock Plan. The restrictions generally lapse for one-third of the RSUs on June 21, 2024, 2025, and 2026, at which time the units are converted into shares of our common stock. The grant date fair value of the RSUs is the number of RSUs multiplied by the closing price of the Company common stock on the grant date of June 21, 2023 ($5.05).

(3)

Represents the number of PSUs granted under the 2010 Stock Plan, having a target value for each NEO of: Mr. Baker, $715,000; Mr. Lawlar, $149,525; Mr. Clary, $138,000, Mr. Brown, $126,500, Mr. Sienko, $120,600, and Mr. Roberts, $230,000, with the potential of up to 200% of this target value (subject to specific performance terms and conditions established for these PSUs) awarded to the NEOs under the 2010 Stock Plan. Determination of the actual number of shares to be received in settlement of these PSUs will be based on the TSR of Hecla common stock for the three-year period from January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2025, based on the following percentile rank within peer group companies:

100th percentile rank = maximum award at 200% of target;

40th - 60th percentile rank = target award at grant value;

25th percentile rank = threshold award at 25% of target.

Hecla’s TSR performance versus that of TSR peer group companies will be based on a comparison of the average share price over the last 60 calendar days prior to January 1, 2023 (as the base price) with the average share price the last 60 calendar days of the three-year performance period, plus dividends, to determine relative share value performance and ranking among peers.

(4)

Represents the potential value of the payout for each NEO under the 2023-2025 LTIP period if the threshold, target, or maximum goals are satisfied for all performance measures. The potential payouts are performance-driven and therefore completely at-risk. The business measurements and performance goals for determining the payout are described in the CD&A starting on page 56. Dollar amounts shown are valued as follows on a per unit basis: Threshold, $0; Target, $90; and Maximum, $630. The number of units awarded to each NEO for the 2023-2025 LTIP period are as follows:

NEO

   2023-2025 LTIP   

Units

(#)

Baker

11,000

Lawlar

4,025

Clary

3,795

Brown

3,465

Sienko

3,309

Roberts

(5)

Represents the potential value of the payout for each NEO under the 2023 STIP described in the CD&A starting on page 51. The total payout to each NEO under the 2023 STIP is described in footnote 3 to the Summary Compensation Table for 2023 on page 67.

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The following table provides information on the current holdings of stock awards by the NEOs. This table includes unvested RSUs and unvested PSUs.

Outstanding Equity Awards at Calendar Year-End for 2023

    Stock Awards 

Name

  

Number of
Shares or
Units of Stock
That Have Not
Vested
(1)

(#)

   

Market Value of

Shares or
Units of Stock
That Have Not
Vested
(2)
($)

   

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
(3)
($)

 

Phillips S. Baker, Jr.

   260,552    1,253,255   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

       146,726(4)   705,752 
              141,584(5)   681,019 

Russell D. Lawlar

   80,937    389,307   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

       29,345(4)   141,149 
              29,609(5)   142,419 

Michael L. Clary

   75,269    362,044    
       27,088(4)   130,293 
              27,327(5)   131,443 

Robert D. Brown

   69,380    333,718    
       25,959(4)   124,863 
              25,050(5)   120,491 

David C. Sienko

   67,277    323,602    
       25,959(4)   124,863 
              23,881(5)   114,868 

Lauren M. Roberts*

               

*

Mr. Roberts retired on December 15, 2023, and as a result, he is not eligible for any of these awards.

(1)

The following table shows the dates on which the RSUs in the outstanding equity awards table vest and the corresponding number of shares, subject generally to continued employment through the vest date.

  

 

  Number of Unvested Restricted Stock Units 

Vesting Date

  Baker   Roberts   Lawlar   Clary   Brown   Sienko  

June 21, 2024

   117,255        36,665    34,399    31,903    30,920  

June 21, 2025

   96,103        29,472    27,207    25,134    24,574  

June 21, 2026

   47,194        14,800    13,663    12,343    11,783  

Total

   260,552        80,937    75,269    69,380    67,277  

(2)

The market value of the RSUs is based on the closing market price of our common stock on the NYSE as of December 29, 2023, which was $4.81.

(3)

The market value of the PSUs is based on the closing market price of our common stock on the NYSE as of December 29, 2023, which was $4.81.

(4)

Award of PSUs, the value of which will be determined based on the TSR of Hecla common stock for the three-year period from January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2024. For purposes of determining the amounts reflected in this column, it is assumed that threshold performance was achieved as of the calendar year ended December 31, 2023.

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72 | 2024 Proxy Statement

(5)

Award of PSUs, the value of which will be determined based on the TSR of Hecla common stock for the three-year period from January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2025. For purposes of determining the amounts reflected in this column, it is assumed that threshold performance was achieved as of the calendar year ended December 31, 2023.

The following table shows the number of stock awards that vested during calendar year 2023 for each of the NEOs, and the value realized on the vesting of stock awards during calendar year 2023.

Stock Vested in 2023

    Stock Awards 
Name  Number of
Shares
Acquired
on Vesting
(#)
  

Value

Realized on

Vesting

($)

 

Phillips S. Baker, Jr.

   44,004(1)   222,220 

 

   21,151(2)   106,813 

 

   48,909(3)   246,990 
 

 

   111,041(4)   393,085 

Russell D. Lawlar

   6,600(1)   33,330 

 

   7,191(2)   36,315 

 

   14,673(3)   74,099 
 

 

   24,428(4)   86,475 

Michael L. Clary

   22,002(1)   111,110 

 

   7,191(2)   36,315 

 

   13,544(3)   68,397 
 

 

   24,428(4)   86,475 

Robert D. Brown

   17,601(1)   88,885 

 

   6,768(2)   34,178 

 

   12,792(3)   64,600 
 

 

   23,319(4)   82,549 

David C. Sienko

   16,501(1)   83,330 

 

   6,345(2)   32,042 

 

   12,792(3)   64,600 
 

 

   22,208(4)   78,616 

Lauren M. Roberts

   24,752(1)   124,998 

 

   9,518(2)   48,066 

 

   22,574(3)   113,999 
 

 

   0(4)   0 

(1)

The NEOs were granted these RSUs on June 22, 2020. On June 21, 2023, the restrictions lapsed, and each NEO received his units in the form of shares of our common stock. The value realized was based on the closing sales price of our common stock on the NYSE on June 21, 2023, which was $5.05.

(2)

The NEOs were granted these RSUs on June 21, 2021. On June 21, 2023, the restrictions lapsed, and each NEO received his units in the form of shares of our common stock. The value realized was based on the closing sales price of our common stock on the NYSE on June 21, 2023, which was $5.05.

(3)

The NEOs were granted these RSUs on June 21, 2022. On June 21, 2023, the restrictions lapsed, and each NEO received his units in the form of shares of our common stock. The value realized was based on the closing sales price of our common stock on the NYSE on June 21, 2023, which was $5.05.

(4)

For Messrs. Baker, Lawlar, Clary, Brown, and Sienko, reflects the PSUs earned for the 2021-2023 performance period that ended on December 31, 2023, because performance targets were met. Mr. Roberts retired from the Company on December 15, 2023, therefore, his 2021-2023 PSUs were forfeited. The value shown as realized on vesting is based on the closing price of our common stock on the NYSE on February 26, 2024 ($3.54), which was the date on which the executive’s received the shares underlying their PSUs. See 2021-2023 PSU Results on page 60 for further information.

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Other Benefits

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Pension Benefits

The following table shows pension information under the Retirement Plan and the SERP for the NEOs as of December 31, 2021.2023. The terms and conditions for participation in, and payments from, these plans are described on page 72 under Retirement Plan.below. The actuarial present value of the accumulated benefit is determined using the same assumptions used for financial reporting purposes except that retirement age is assumed to be the normal retirement age of 65, or the current age if eligible for early retirement. These assumptions are in Note 6 to the consolidated financial statements in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021.2023.

 

Name

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

Payments  

During  

Last  

Calendar  

Year  

($)  

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

 Payments 

 During 

 Last 

 Calendar 

 Year 

 ($) 

Phillips S. Baker, Jr.

  Retirement Plan    20    1,254,492    --  

Phillips S. Baker, Jr.

Michael L. Clary

Michael L. Clary

  SERP       10,041,761    --  

Russell D. Lawlar

  Retirement Plan    10    168,092    --  

Russell D. Lawlar

Robert D. Brown

Robert D. Brown

David C. Sienko

David C. Sienko

  Retirement Plan   

 

    369,226 

 

  SERP       760    --  

Lauren M. Roberts

  Retirement Plan    10    159,249    --  

Lauren M. Roberts

  SERP       514,335    --  

Robert D. Brown(1)

  Retirement Plan   

 

    N/A    N/A  
  SERP    6    461,447    --  

David C. Sienko

  Retirement Plan    11    535,898    --  
  SERP       452,893    --  

Lindsay A. Hall(1), (2)

  Retirement Plan   

 

    N/A    N/A  
  SERP    5    926,450    --  

(1)

As a non-U.S. citizens, Mr. Hall and citizen, Mr. Brown areis not participantsa participant in the Retirement Plan; however, they dohe does participate in the SERP.SERP, which is shown in Canadian dollars.

Retirement Plan

Our NEOs, except for those who are not U.S. citizens, participate in the Retirement Plan, which is a defined benefit plan. Canadian NEOs participate in Canada’s public retirement income system, which includes the following components: (i) the Canada (or Quebec) Pension Plan, which is a contributory, earnings-related social insurance program, and (ii) the Old Age Security program. In addition, the Registered Retirement Savings Plan is a tax-deferred individual savings plan available to Canadian employees. Mexican employees participate in Mexico’s public retirement income system, which is based on contributions the employee, employer and the government submit to the retirement savings system. The system is administered through savings accounts managed by private fund managers selected by the participant.

Contributions to the Retirement Plan, and the related expense or income, are based on general actuarial calculations and, accordingly, no portion of our contributions, and related expenses or income, is specifically attributable to our officers. Hecla also offers the Supplemental Excess Retirement Plan (SERP) under which the amount of any benefits not payable under the Retirement Plan by reason of the limitations imposed by the Internal Revenue Code and/or the Employee Retirement Income Security Act, as amended (the Acts), and the loss, if any, due to a deferral of salary made under our KEDCP will be paid out of our general funds to any employee covered by the SERP who may be adversely affected. Under the Acts, the current maximum annual pension benefit payable by the Retirement Plan to any employee is $245,000 (for 2023), subject to specified adjustments, and is calculated using earnings not more than $330,000.

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(2)

74 | 2024 Proxy Statement

A participant in the Traditional Pension Plan, upon reaching the normal retirement age of 65, is eligible to receive annual retirement benefits in monthly installments for life equal to, for each year of credited service, 1% of final average annual earnings (defined as the highest average earnings of such employee for any 36 consecutive calendar months for participants hired on or before June 30, 2013, and as the highest average earnings of such employee for any 60 consecutive calendar months, for participants hired after June 30, 2013, during the final 120 calendar months of service) up to the applicable covered compensation level (which level is based on the Social Security maximum taxable wage base) and 1.75% of the difference, if any, between final average annual earnings and the applicable covered compensation level.

A participant in the Cash Balance Plan, upon reaching the normal retirement age of 65, is eligible to receive their account balance, or alternatively, an actuarially equivalent monthly benefit for life. The participant’s account balance is credited each quarter with pay credits equal to 3% to 6% of their eligible earnings, depending on years of service, and interest credits, as a rate equal to the quarterly rate of change in the consumer price index plus three-quarters of one percent (3/4%).

The Retirement Plan and SERP define earnings for purposes of the plans to be “a wage or salary for services of employees inclusive of any bonus or special pay including gain-sharing programs, contract miners’ bonus pay and the equivalent,” except that on or after July 1, 2013, earnings are defined as “base salary or wages for personal services and elective deferrals plus (i) elective deferrals not includable in the gross income of the employee under Code Sections 125, 132(f)(4), 402(e)(3), 402(h), 403(b) and 457, (ii) one-half (1/2) of any performance-based or STIP bonus, (iii) one-half (1/2) of any safety incentive award, (iv) paid time off, other than pay while on disability leave, (v) any post-employment payment for services performed during the course of employment that would have been paid to the employee prior to the severance from employment if the employee had continued in employment with Hecla, and (vi) compensation for overtime at the employee’s regular rate of pay.”

The following table shows estimated aggregate annual benefits under the Retirement Plan and the SERP payable upon retirement to a participant who retires in 2023 at age 65 having the years of service and final average annual earnings as specified. The table assumes Social Security covered compensation levels in effect on January 1, 2023.

Estimated Annual Retirement Benefits

Final Average  Years of Credited Service 
Annual Earnings  5   10   15   20   25   30   35 

$ 100,000

  

$

5,000

 

  

$

10,000

 

  

$

15,000

 

  

$

20,000

 

  

$

25,000

 

  

$

30,000

 

  

$

35,000

 

  150,000

  

 

9,319

 

  

 

18,639

 

  

 

27,958

 

  

 

37,277

 

  

 

46,597

 

  

 

55,916

 

  

 

65,235

 

  200,000

  

 

13,694

 

  

 

27,389

 

  

 

41,083

 

  

 

54,777

 

  

 

68,472

 

  

 

82,166

 

  

 

95,860

 

  250,000

  

 

18,069

 

  

 

36,139

 

  

 

54,208

 

  

 

72,277

 

  

 

90,347

 

  

 

108,416

 

  

 

126,485

 

  300,000

  

 

22,444

 

  

 

44,889

 

  

 

67,333

 

  

 

89,777

 

  

 

112,222

 

  

 

134,666

 

  

 

157,110

 

  350,000

  

 

26,819

 

  

 

53,639

 

  

 

80,458

 

  

 

107,277

 

  

 

134,097

 

  

 

160,916

 

  

 

187,735

 

  400,000

  

 

31,194

 

  

 

62,389

 

  

 

93,583

 

  

 

124,777

 

  

 

155,972

 

  

 

187,166

 

  

 

218,360

 

  450,000

  

 

35,569

 

  

 

71,139

 

  

 

106,708

 

  

 

142,277

 

  

 

177,847

 

  

 

213,416

 

  

 

248,985

 

  500,000

  

 

39,944

 

  

 

79,889

 

  

 

119,833

 

  

 

159,777

 

  

 

199,722

 

  

 

239,666

 

  

 

279,610

 

  550,000

  

 

44,319

 

  

 

88,639

 

  

 

132,958

 

  

 

177,277

 

  

 

221,597

 

  

 

265,916

 

  

 

310,235

 

  600,000

  

 

48,694

 

  

 

97,389

 

  

 

146,083

 

  

 

194,777

 

  

 

243,472

 

  

 

292,166

 

  

 

340,860

 

  650,000

  

 

53,069

 

  

 

106,139

 

  

 

159,208

 

  

 

212,277

 

  

 

265,347

 

  

 

318,416

 

  

 

371,485

 

  700,000

  

 

57,444

 

  

 

114,889

 

  

 

172,333

 

  

 

229,777

 

  

 

287,222

 

  

 

344,666

 

  

 

402,110

 

  750,000

  

 

61,819

 

  

 

123,639

 

  

 

185,458

 

  

 

247,277

 

  

 

309,097

 

  

 

370,916

 

  

 

432,735

 

  800,000

  

 

66,194

 

  

 

132,389

 

  

 

198,583

 

  

 

264,777

 

  

 

330,972

 

  

 

397,166

 

  

 

463,360

 

  850,000

  

 

70,569

 

  

 

141,139

 

  

 

211,708

 

  

 

282,277

 

  

 

352,847

 

  

 

423,416

 

  

 

493,985

 

  900,000

  

 

74,944

 

  

 

149,889

 

  

 

224,833

 

  

 

299,777

 

  

 

374,722

 

  

 

449,666

 

  

 

524,610

 

  950,000

  

 

79,319

 

  

 

158,639

 

  

 

237,958

 

  

 

317,277

 

  

 

396,597

 

  

 

475,916

 

  

 

555,235

 

 1,000,000

  

 

83,694

 

  

 

167,389

 

  

 

251,083

 

  

 

334,777

 

  

 

418,472

 

  

 

502,166

 

  

 

585,860

 

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Mr. Hall retired in March 2021.2024 Proxy Statement | 75

Benefits listed in the pension table are not subject to any deduction for Social Security or other offset amounts. As of December 31, 2023, the following NEOs have completed the indicated number of full years of credited service: Mr. Baker, 22 years; Mr. Clary, 29 years; Mr. Lawlar, 13 years; Mr. Brown, 6 years; Mr. Sienko 13 years; and Mr. Roberts, 12 years.

The table below provides information on the nonqualified deferred compensation of the NEOs in 2021.2023.

Nonqualified Deferred Compensation for 20212023

 

Name

  Executive
Contributions
in Last FY
($)
 Registrant
Contributions in
Last FY
($)
 Aggregate
Earnings in
Last FY
($)
  Aggregate
Withdrawals/
Distributions
($)
  

Aggregate  

Balance of  

Stock  

At Last FYE  

($)(1)  

Phillips S. Baker, Jr.

    --   --   --    --    9,374,932  

Russell D. Lawlar

    --   --   --    --    --

Lauren M. Roberts

    292,603(2)    29,260(2)    --    --    1,770,201

Robert D. Brown(3)

    --   --   --    --    --

David C. Sienko

    --   --   --    --    --

Lindsay A. Hall(3), (4)

    --   --   --    --    --

Name

Executive
Contributions
in Last FY
($)
Registrant
Contributions in
Last FY
($)
Aggregate
Earnings in
Last FY
($)
Aggregate
Withdrawals/
Distributions
($)

Aggregate 

Balance of 

Stock 

At Last FYE 

($)(1)

Phillips S. Baker, Jr.

8,638,587

Russell D. Lawlar

Michael L. Clary

Robert D. Brown(2)

David C. Sienko

Lauren M. Roberts*

1,631,162

*

Mr. Roberts retired from Hecla on December 15, 2023. Under the terms of the KEDCP, he will receive any shares he deferred under the KEDCP 6 months after he leaves the Company. He will receive the 339,119 shares held under the KEDCP in June 2024.

(1)

Total amount of deferred shares held under the KEDCP as of December 31, 2021.2023. The value shown in this column is the value of the total amount of shares held in the KEDCP multiplied by our closing stock price on the NYSE on December 31, 202129, 2023 ($5.22)4.81). The number of shares so held is as follows: Baker, 1,795,964 shares; and Roberts, 339,119 shares.

(2)

Mr. Roberts deferred a portion of his 2021 base salary and his 2020 STIP cash award to the KEDCP. The total amount of compensation deferred to the KEDCP ($292,603) was credited to a stock account and converted to share units on a quarterly basis. The Company match in 2021 was $29,260 and was credited to Mr. Robert’s stock account and converted to share units. The deferred executive contribution cash amount is reported in the Summary Compensation Table for 2021 on page 57 as part of Mr. Roberts total 2021 compensation. The total amount of shares held by Mr.Messrs. Baker and Roberts under the KEDCP is also reported in the Security Ownership of CertainBeneficial Owners and Management Table on page 75.88.

(3)(2)

Canadian employees are not eligible to participate in our deferred compensation plan.

(4)

Mr. Hall retired in March 2021.

2022 Proxy Statement    65


Compensation of Named Executive Officers

Pursuant to the Company’s KEDCP, executives and key employees, including the NEOs, may defer all or a portion of their base salary, cash or equity awards earned under the LTIP and STIP, and any vested RSUs or vested PSUs granted under the 2010 Stock Plan. Deferral elections are made by the individual generally in the year prior to the beginning of the plan year for amounts to be earned or granted in the following year. Base salary, STIP and LTIP amounts deferred under the KEDCP are credited to either an investment account or a stock account at the participant’s election. Amounts credited to an investment account are valued in cash, credited with deemed interest, and distributed with deemed interest in cash upon a distributable event. RSUs and other common stock awarded (PSUs) under the 2010 Stock Plan and deferred by a participant are credited to a stock account. Amounts credited to the stock account of a participant are valued based upon our common stock and are delivered to the participant in shares of our common stock upon a distributable event.

The KEDCP also provides for corporate matching amounts where the participants elect to have their base salary, STIP or LTIP cash awards credited to a stock account. Matching contributions are also valued based on our common stock and distributed upon a distributable event in stock. The ability to defer compensation into a company stock account promotes alignment of the interests of participants with those of our common shareholders. It also provides for corporate discretionary allocations of amounts valued based upon our common stock and credited to a stock account.

As of the end of the last day of each calendar month, an additional amount is credited to the investment account of the participant equal to the product of (i) the average daily balance of the investment account for the month, multiplied by (ii) the annual prime rate for corporate borrowers quoted at the beginning of the quarter by The Wall Street Journal (or such other comparable interest rate as the committee may designate from time to time).

The amounts credited to the investment or stock account of a participant under the KEDCP are distributable or payable within 75 days of the earliest to occur of the following distribution events: (i) the date on which the participant separates from service with us, with the distribution delayed for six months for certain “specified employees;” (ii) “disability” as defined in Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code; (iii) the participant’s death; (iv) a fixed date or fixed schedule selected by the participant at the time the deferral election was made; (v) an “unforeseeable emergency,” as defined in Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code; (vi) a “change in control” of the Company, as defined in regulations issued by the Internal Revenue Service under Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code; and (vii) termination of the KEDCP.

The KEDCP is at all times considered to be entirely unfunded both for tax purposes and for purposes of Title I of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended, and no provision will at any time be made with respect to segregating our

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76 | 2024 Proxy Statement

assets for the payment of any amounts under the KEDCP. Any funds that may be invested for purposes of fulfilling our promises under the KEDCP are for all purposes to be part of our general assets and available to general creditors in the event of a bankruptcy or insolvency of the Company. Nothing contained in the KEDCP will constitute a guarantee by us that any funds or assets will be sufficient to pay any benefit under the KEDCP.

Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control

We have a change in control agreement (“CIC Agreement”) with each of our NEOs (Messrs. Baker, Lawlar, Roberts,Clary, Brown and Sienko). The CIC Agreement expired for Mr. Hall was terminatedRoberts upon his retirement from the Company in March 2021.on December 15, 2023.

The CIC Agreements provide that each of the NEOs will serve in such executive position as the Board may direct. The CIC Agreements become effective only upon a change in control of the Company (the date of such change in control is referred to as the “Effective Date”). The term of employment under the CIC Agreements is two years from the Effective Date (except for Messrs.Mr. Baker and Mr. Sienko, who each have a termterms of three years from the Effective Date). Any CIC Agreements entered into with newly hired executives will contain an employment term of two years from the Effective Date. The CIC Agreements automatically extend for an additional year on each anniversary date of the agreements unless we give notice of nonrenewal 60 days prior to the anniversary date. Under the CIC Agreements, a change in control is, with certain limitations, deemed to occur if: (i) an individual or entity (including a “group” under Section 13(d) (3) of the Exchange Act) becomes the beneficial owner of 20% or more of either the then outstanding shares of common stock of the Company or the combined voting power of the then outstanding voting securities of the Company entitled to vote generally in the election of directors; (ii) as the

66     www.hecla-mining.com


Compensation of Named Executive Officers

result of a tender offer, merger, proxy fight or similar transaction, the persons who were previously directors of the Company cease to constitute a majority of the Board; (iii) consummation of the sale of all, or substantially all, of the assets of the Company (with certain limitations) occurs; or (iv) the approval of a plan of dissolution or liquidation.

The CIC Agreements are intended to ensure, among other things, that in the event of a change in control, each NEO will continue to focus on adding shareholder value. We seek to accomplish this by assuring that each NEO continues to receive payments and other benefits equivalent to those being received at the time of a change in control for the duration of the employment term under of the CIC Agreement. The CIC Agreements also provide that should an NEO’s employment be terminated either (i) by the NEO for good reason, or (ii) by the Company (other than for cause or disability) after the Effective Date of the CIC Agreement, the NEO would receive from us a lump-sum defined amount generally equivalent to three times the aggregate of the annual base salary rate, the highest STIP and the prorated LTIP during the three-year period, prior to the Effective Date. For Messrs. Lawlar, Roberts,Clary, and Brown, and any other CIC Agreements entered into hereafter, the lump-sum defined amount is generally equivalent to two times.

The NEOs would also be entitled to lump-sum payments representing the difference in pension and supplemental retirement benefits to which they would be entitled on (i) the date of actual termination, and (ii) the end of the three-year (or two-year where applicable) employment period under the CIC Agreements. We would also maintain such NEO’s participation in all benefit plans and programs (or provide equivalent benefits if such continued participation waswere not possible under the terms of such plans and programs).

A NEO whose employment has terminated would not be required to seek other employment to receive the defined benefits.

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2024 Proxy Statement | 77

The following table summarizes the circumstances under which our NEOs would receive severance benefits upon termination or a change in control.

Summary of Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control

 

Compensation

Element

 Termination

Following a

Change in Control
(1)
 Termination due to

Death or Disability
 Involuntary

Not

For Cause

or

Voluntary

Termination
 For Cause

Termination
 Retirement

Base Salary

 Messrs. Baker and Sienko receive three times their annual base salary. Messrs. Lawlar, Roberts,Clary, and Brown receive two times their annual base salary. N/A N/A N/A N/A

STIP

 Messrs. Baker and Sienko receive three times the highest STIP paid in the last three years. Messrs. Lawlar, Roberts,Clary, and Brown receive two times the highest STIP paid in the last three years. N/A N/A N/A N/A

2022 Proxy Statement    67


Compensation of Named Executive Officers

CompensationLTIP

Element

Termination
Following a
Change in Control(1)
Termination due to
Death or Disability
Involuntary
Not
For Cause
or
Voluntary
Termination
For Cause
Termination
Retirement
  LTIP Messrs. Baker and Sienko receive three times the highest LTIP paid in the last three years. Messrs. Lawlar, Roberts,Clary, and Brown receive two times the highest LTIP paid in the last three years. Each NEO would receive a prorated portion of any LTIP plan in which the NEO was a participant. The surviving spouse or other beneficiary would receive the payment based on actual performance. N/A N/A To qualify for vesting of long-term award benefits, the employee must retire under the Retirement Plan and be at least age: (i) 60 and have 15 or more years of service with the Company; (ii) 65 and have 7 or more years of service with the Company; or (iii) 68. If the participant meets these age and years of service requirements, their prorated portion for outstanding plan periods will be paid after the completion of those plan periods based on actual performance.

RSUs

 All unvested RSUs maywill vest upon a change in control.(2) All unvested RSUs would vest immediately as of the date of such disability or death and would be delivered to the NEO, spouse, or beneficiary. N/A N/A If an employee retires before their RSUs have vested, they must meet certain requirements for their RSUs to continue to vest based on the applicable vesting schedule. To qualify for vesting of RSUs, the employee must retire under the Retirement Plan and be at least age: (i) 60 and have 15 or more years of service with the Company; (ii) 65 and have 7 or more years of service with the Company; or (iii) 68.

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78 | 2024 Proxy Statement

Compensation

Element

Termination
Following a
Change in Control
(1)
Termination due to
Death or Disability
Involuntary
Not
For Cause
or
Voluntary
Termination
For Cause
Termination
Retirement

PSUs

 All unearned PSUs maywill immediately become earned and vested at 100% of target level as of the date of the change in control.(2) The TSR performance goal would be deemed achieved at 100% of target level as of the date of such disability or death and would be delivered to the NEO, spouse, or beneficiary. N/A N/A To qualify for vesting of unearned PSUs, the employee must retire under the Retirement Plan and be at least age: (i) 60 and have 15 or more years of service with the Company; (ii) 65 and have 7 or more years of service with the Company; or (iii) 68.

68     www.hecla-mining.com


Compensation of Named Executive Officers

Compensation

Element

Termination
Following a
Change in Control(1)
Termination due to
Death or Disability
Involuntary
Not
For Cause
or
Voluntary
Termination
For Cause
Termination
Retirement
Health and

Welfare

Benefits

 Messrs. Baker and Sienko would receive three years of health and welfare benefits and disability and life insurance premiums would be paid for such three-year period. For Messrs. Lawlar, Clary, and Brown the same would apply, but for two years. In addition to any earned, but unused vacation, theyall NEOs would be eligible for up to $20,000 in outplacement assistance and the 401(k) match would be deposited in their accounts. For Messrs. Lawlar, Roberts, and Brown, the same would apply, but for two years. Unused vacation and the 401(k) match would be deposited in their account. N/A N/A Unused vacation and the 401(k) match would be deposited in their accounts.

 

(1)

This means an involuntary termination without cause or voluntary termination for good reason within the stated period (three or two years) after the change in control.

(2)

Our 2010 Stock Plan provides for a double-trigger vesting.

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2024 Proxy Statement | 79

The following tables reflect the amount of compensation that would be paid to each of our NEOs in the event of a termination of the NEO’s employment under the scenarios listed in the tables and should be read in conjunction with the disclosure above. The amounts shown assume that such termination was effective as of December 31, 20212023 and include estimates of the amounts that would be paid to each NEO upon such NEO’s termination. The tables only include additional benefits that result from the termination and do not include any amounts or benefits earned, vested, accrued, or owing under any plan for any other reason. Please see Grants of Plan-Based Awards for 2021 2023 on page 60, 69, Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Calendar Year-End for 2021 2023 on page 62, 71, Pension Benefits table on page 65,73, and the section entitled titled Nonqualified Deferred Compensation for 2021 2023 on page 6575 for additional information. The actual amounts to be paid can only be determined at the time of such NEO’s separation from Hecla.

 

Termination Payments and Benefits for Phillips S. Baker, Jr.

  Termination Following
a Change in Control
($)
   Disability
($)
   Death
($)
   Termination Following
a Change in Control
($)
 Death or
Disability
($)

Base Salary(1)

  

 

2,100,000

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

Base Salary(1)

Base Salary(1)

Base Salary(1)

Base Salary(1)

STIP(2)

  

 

3,619,500

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

STIP(2)

STIP(2)

STIP(2)

STIP(2)

Unvested RSUs(3)

  

 

1,168,878

 

  

 

1,168,878

 

  

 

1,168,878

 

Unvested RSUs(3)

Unvested RSUs(3)

Unvested RSUs(3)

Unvested RSUs(3)

Unearned PSUs(4)

  

 

1,020,327

 

  

 

1,020,327

 

  

 

1,020,327

 

Unearned PSUs(4)

Unearned PSUs(4)

Unearned PSUs(4)

Unearned PSUs(4)

LTIP

  

 

3,394,350

(5) 

  

 

749,997

(6) 

  

 

749,997

(6) 

Benefits & Perquisites:

      

LTIP

LTIP

LTIP

LTIP

    2,970,000(5)   1,436,247(6) 
 

Benefits:

   

 

 

 

Health and Welfare Benefits(7)

  

 

60,155

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

Health and Welfare Benefits(7)

Health and Welfare Benefits(7)

Health and Welfare Benefits(7)

Health and Welfare Benefits(7)

Life Insurance Benefits(8)

  

 

12,148

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

Life Insurance Benefits(8)

Life Insurance Benefits(8)

Life Insurance Benefits(8)

Life Insurance Benefits(8)

Outplacement

Outplacement

Outplacement

Outplacement

Outplacement

  

 

20,000

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

   

 

   

 

 

Total

  

 

11,395,358

 

  

 

2,939,202

 

  

 

2,939,202

 

  

 

   

 

   

 

 

Total

Total

Total

Total

Termination Payments and Benefits for Russell D. Lawlar

  Termination Following
a Change in Control
($)
 

Death or

Disability
($)

Base Salary(1)

    759,000   

STIP(2)

    838,200   

Unvested RSUs(3)

    389,307   389,307

Unearned PSUs(4)

    350,712   350,712

LTIP

    511,582(5)    499,498(6) 
   

Benefits:

   

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

Health and Welfare Benefits(7)

    47,286   

Life Insurance Benefits(8)

    8,777   

Outplacement

    20,000   

Total

    2,924,864   1,239,517

Termination Payments and Benefits for Michael L. Clary

  Termination Following
a Change in Control
($)
 

Death or

Disability
($)

Base Salary(1)

    690,000   

STIP(2)

    1,050,000   

Unvested RSUs(3)

    362,044   362,044

Unearned PSUs(4)

    328,879   328,879

LTIP

    507,376(5)    480,599(6) 
   

Benefits:

   

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

Health and Welfare Benefits(7)

    60,552   

Life Insurance Benefits(8)

    8,777   

Outplacement

    20,000   

Total

    3,027,628   1,171,522

 

2022 Proxy Statement    69LOGO


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Compensation of Named Executive Officers

80 | 2024 Proxy Statement

Termination Payments and Benefits for Robert D. Brown

  Termination Following
a Change in Control
($)
 

Death or

Disability
($)

Base Salary(1)

    660,000   

STIP(2)

    780,000   

Unvested RSUs(3)

    333,718   333,718

Unearned PSUs(4)

    309,447   309,447

LTIP

    742,500(5)    461,699(6) 
   

Benefits:

   

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

Health and Welfare Benefits(7)

    9,530   

Life Insurance Benefits(8)

    11,107   

Outplacement

    20,000   

Total

    2,866,302   1,104,864

 

Termination Payments and Benefits for Russell D. Lawlar

  Termination Following
a Change in Control
($)
   Disability
($)
   Death
($)
 

Base Salary(1)

  

 

530,000

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

STIP(2)

  

 

371,000

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

Unvested RSUs(3)

  

 

228,808

 

  

 

228,808

 

  

 

228,808

 

Unearned PSUs(4)

  

 

72,866

 

  

 

72,866

 

  

 

72,866

 

LTIP

  

 

80,400

(5) 

  

 

214,017

(6) 

  

 

214,017

(6) 

Benefits & Perquisites:

      

Health and Welfare Benefits(7)

  

 

45,090

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

Life Insurance Benefits(8)

  

 

7,149

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

Outplacement

  

 

20,000

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  

 

1,355,313

 

  

 

   515,691

 

  

 

   515,691

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Termination Payments and Benefits for Lauren M. Roberts

  Termination Following
a Change in Control
($)
   Disability
($)
   Death
($)
 

Base Salary(1)

  

 

760,000

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

STIP(2)

  

 

1,406,000

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

Unvested RSUs(3)

  

 

602,237

 

  

 

602,237

 

  

 

602,237

 

Unearned PSUs(4)

  

 

357,784

 

  

 

357,784

 

  

 

357,784

 

LTIP

  

 

253,126

(5) 

  

 

360,000

(6) 

  

 

360,000

(6) 

Benefits & Perquisites:

      

Health and Welfare Benefits(7)

  

 

34,407

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

Life Insurance Benefits(8)

  

 

8,099

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

Outplacement

  

 

20,000

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  

 

3,441,653

 

  

 

1,320,021

 

  

 

1,320,021

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Termination Payments and Benefits for Robert D. Brown

  Termination Following
a Change in Control
($)
   Disability
($)
   Death
($)
 

Base Salary(1)

  

 

528,000

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

STIP(2)

  

 

475,200

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

Unvested RSUs(3)

  

 

431,600

 

  

 

431,600

 

  

 

431,600

 

Unearned PSUs(4)

  

 

250,445

 

  

 

250,445

 

  

 

250,445

 

LTIP

  

 

595,500

(5) 

  

 

270,000

(6) 

  

 

270,000

(6) 

Benefits & Perquisites:

      

Health and Welfare Benefits(7)

  

 

6,444

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

Life Insurance Benefits(8)

  

 

7,812

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

Outplacement

  

 

20,000

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  

 

2,315,001

 

  

 

   952,045

 

  

 

   952,045

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

70     www.hecla-mining.com


Compensation of Named Executive Officers

Termination Payments and Benefits for David C. Sienko

  Termination Following
a Change in Control
($)
   Disability
($)
   Death
($)
   Termination Following
a Change in Control
($)
 

Death or

Disability
($)

Base Salary(1)

  

 

795,000

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

Base Salary(1)

Base Salary(1)

Base Salary(1)

Base Salary(1)

STIP(2)

  

 

695,625

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

STIP(2)

STIP(2)

STIP(2)

STIP(2)

Unvested RSUs(3)

  

 

413,492

 

  

 

413,492

 

  

 

413,492

 

Unvested RSUs(3)

Unvested RSUs(3)

Unvested RSUs(3)

Unvested RSUs(3)

Unearned PSUs(4)

  

 

238,517

 

  

 

238,517

 

  

 

238,517

 

Unearned PSUs(4)

Unearned PSUs(4)

Unearned PSUs(4)

Unearned PSUs(4)

LTIP

  

 

893,250

(5) 

  

 

270,000

(6) 

  

 

270,000

(6) 

Benefits & Perquisites:

      

LTIP

LTIP

LTIP

LTIP

    1,113,750(5)   457,020(6) 
 

Benefits:

   

 

 

 

Health and Welfare Benefits(7)

  

 

26,387

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

Health and Welfare Benefits(7)

Health and Welfare Benefits(7)

Health and Welfare Benefits(7)

Health and Welfare Benefits(7)

Life Insurance Benefits(8)

  

 

10,723

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

Life Insurance Benefits(8)

Life Insurance Benefits(8)

Life Insurance Benefits(8)

Life Insurance Benefits(8)

Outplacement

Outplacement

Outplacement

Outplacement

Outplacement

  

 

20,000

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

--

 

  

 

   

 

   

 

 

Total

  

 

3,092,994

 

  

 

922,009

 

  

 

   922,009

 

  

 

   

 

   

 

 

Total

Total

Total

Total

 

(1)

Represents three times annual base salary for Messrs. Baker and Sienko. Represents two times annual base salary for Messrs. Lawlar, Roberts,Clary, and Brown.

(2)

Represents three times the highest STIP payment paid in the last three years for Messrs. Baker and Sienko. Represents two times the highest STIP payment paid in the last three years to Messrs. RobertsLawlar, Clary, and Brown. Represents two times the 2021 STIP payment paid to Mr. Lawlar.

(3)

In the event of a qualifying termination following a change in control, any unvested RSUs will become immediately earned and vested as of the date of the change in control termination. In the event of termination by reason of disability or death, the unvested RSUs will become immediately earned and vested as of the date of disability or death. The value is based on the closing price of Hecla’s common stock on the NYSE on December 31, 202129, 2023 ($5.22)4.81). Please see the Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Calendar Year-End for 20212023 table on page 6271 for more information.

(4)

For unearned PSUs, the values included in the table are based on the number of unearned PSUs that would have vested if termination occurred on the last business day of 2021,2023, assuming target performance (195,465(351,762 shares for Mr. Baker, 13,95972,913 shares for Mr. Lawlar, 68,54168,374 shares for Mr. Roberts, 47,978Clary, 64,334 shares for Mr. Brown, and 45,69362,530 shares for Mr. Sienko),Sienko, multiplied by the closing price of our common stock on the NYSE on December 31, 202129, 2023 ($5.22)4.81). In the event of a change in control, any unearned performance-based shares will become immediately earned and vested as of the date of the change in control. In the event of termination by reason of disability or death, the unearned performance-based shares will become immediately earned and vested as of the date of disability or death. The totals listed in the disability and death columns are based on the number of performance-based shares that would have vested if disability or death would have occurred on the last business day of 20212023 assuming target performance for each of the NEOs, multiplied by the closing price of our common stock on the NYSE on December 31, 202129, 2023 ($5.22)4.81).

(5)

Represents three times the highest LTIP payment paid in the last three years for Messrs. Baker and Sienko. Represents two times the highest LTIP payment paid in the last three years for Messrs. RobertsLawlar, Clary, and Brown. Represents two times the highest LTIP payment paid to Mr. Lawlar for the 2018-2020 LTIP plan period.

(6)

Represents the prorated portion of outstanding LTIP plans for 2020-20222022-2024 and 2021-2023.2023-2025.

(7)

Reflects the estimated lump-sum value of all future premiums, which will be paid by the Company on behalf of Messrs. Baker and Sienko under our health and welfare benefit plans for three years upon a termination following a change in control. Reflects the estimated lump-sum value of all future premiums, which will be paid by the Company on behalf of Messrs. Lawlar, RobertsClary, and Brown under our health and welfare benefit plans for two years upon a termination following a change in control.

(8)

Reflects the estimated lump-sum value of the cost of coverage for life insurance provided by us to each NEO.

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2024 Proxy Statement | 81

CEO Pay Ratio

We believe our executive compensation program should be internally consistent and equitable to motivate our employees to create shareholder value. Our committee strives to design a fair and competitive compensation program that will attract, motivate, and retain employees, reward performance, and provide incentives based on our performance. As required by SEC rules, the committee reviewed a comparison of CEO pay to the pay of our “median employee.” The median employee was determined from a review of our employees as of December 31, 2021. In this review, we applied the average 2021 U.S. Dollar exchange rate, as reported by Bloomberg, to the Canadian Dollar. We determined our median employee by ranking employees from highest to lowest, excluding our CEO, based on W-2 earnings statement or comparable annual earnings statement for non-U.S. employees.

The total compensation for the median employee was calculated in the same manner as our CEO.CEO for 2023.

For 2021,Below is (i) the calendar year 2023 annual total compensation of our CEO, Mr. Baker; (ii) the calendar year 2023 annual total compensation of our median employee; and (iii) the ratio of the annual total compensation of our CEO was $4,740,576, and the annual total compensationto that of our median employee was $108,760. The ratioemployee.

CEO PAY RATIO

    

2023 CEO Annual Total Compensation

  $6,013,471 

2023 Median Employee Annual Total Compensation

  $100,579 

CEO to Median Employee Pay Ratio

   60:1 

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82 | 2024 Proxy Statement
Pay Versus Performance
As required by Section 953(a) of CEO paythe Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, and Item 402(v) of Regulation
S-K,
we are providing certain information about the relationship between executive compensation actually paid to certain individuals by the Company and certain financial performance of the Company. For further information concerning the Company’s
pay-for-performance
philosophy and how the Company aligns executive compensation with the Company’s performance, refer to the payCompensation Discussion and Analysis section of this Proxy Statement. Any differences in total values are due to rounding.
           
Average
Summary
Compensation
Table Total for
Non-PEO
NEOs
(3)
($)
  
Average
Compensation
Actually Paid
to
Non-PEO
NEOs
(4)
($)
  
Value of Initial Fixed $100
Investment Based On:
         
Year
 
Summary
Compensation
Table Total for
PEO
(1)
($)
  
Compensation
Actually Paid
to PEO
(2)
($)
  
Total
Shareholder
Return
(5)
($)
  
Peer Group
Total
Shareholder
Return
(6)
($)
  
Net (Loss)
Income
(millions)
(7)
($)
  
Adjusted
EBITDA Less
Capital
   (thousands)
(8)
   
($)
 
(a)
 
(b)
  
(c)
  
(d)
(9)
  
(e)
(9)
  
(f)
  
(g)
  
(h)
  
(i)
 
2023  4,142,554   2,922,539   1,390,524   682,571   144.62   125.65   (84.2  (11.3
2022  4,579,866   6,145,949   1,408,227   1,674,298   166.27   118.52   (37.3  69.8 
2021  3,765,100   3,177,762   915,927   305,615   155.48   127.24   35.1   169.9 
2020  5,190,508   7,046,358   1,631,356   2,457,104   191.63   136.04   (9.5  130.7 
(1)This column represents the amount of total compensation reported for Mr. Baker, our Principal Executive Officer (“PEO”), for each corresponding year in the “Total” column of the Summary Compensation Table (“total compensation”). Please refer to the Summary Compensation Table in this Proxy Statement on page 67.
(2)
This column represents the amount of “compensation actually paid” to Mr. Baker, as computed in accordance with Item 402(v) of Regulation
S-K.
The amounts do not reflect the actual amount of compensation earned by or paid to Mr. Baker during the applicable calendar year. In accordance with the requirements of Item 402(v) of Regulation
S-K,
the following adjustments were made to Mr. Baker’s total compensation for each year 2023 to determine the “compensation actually paid” in calendar year 2023:
Year
  
Reported
Summary
Compensation
Table Total for
PEO
(a)
($)
   
Reported
Summary
Compensation
Table Value of
PEO Equity
Awards
(b)
($)
  
Adjusted Value
of Equity
Awards
(c)
($)
   
Reported
Summary
Compensation
Table Change
in Value
of Pension
Benefits
(d)
($)
  
Pension Benefits
Adjustments
(e)
($)
   
Compensation 
Actually Paid
to PEO
($)
 
2023   4,142,554    (1,216,206  386,110    (685,029  295,110    2,922,539 
(a)This column represents the amount of total compensation reported for Mr. Baker for calendar year 2023 in the “Total” column of the Summary Compensation Table. Please refer to the Summary Compensation Table in this Proxy Statement on page 67.
(b)This column represents the aggregate grant date fair value of equity awards reported in the “Stock Awards” column in the Summary Compensation Table for the calendar year 2023. Please refer to the Summary Compensation Table in this Proxy Statement on page 67. The amount in this column is replaced with the amount reported under the Adjusted Value of Equity Awards column in order to arrive at compensation actually paid.
(c)
This column represents an adjustment to the amounts in the “Stock Awards” column in the Summary Compensation Table in this Proxy Statement for calendar year 2023. The adjusted amount replaces the “Stock Awards” column in the Summary Compensation Table for Mr. Baker for calendar year 2023. The adjusted amount is determined by adding (or subtracting, as applicable) the following for calendar year 2023: the calendar
year-end
fair value of any equity awards granted in calendar year 2023 that are outstanding and unvested as of the end of calendar year 2023; (ii) the amount of change as the end of calendar year 2023 (from the end of the prior calendar year) in the fair value of any awards granted in prior years that are outstanding and unvested as of the end of calendar year 2023; (iii) for awards that are granted and vest in calendar year 2023, the fair value as of the vesting date; (iv) for awards granted in prior calendar years that vest in calendar year 2023, the amount equal to the change as of the vesting date (from the end of the prior calendar year) in the fair value; (v) for awards granted in prior years that are determined to fail to meet the applicable vesting conditions during calendar year 2023, a deduction for the amount equal to the fair value at the end of the prior calendar year; and (vi) the dollar value of any dividends or other earnings paid on stock awards in calendar year
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2024 Proxy Statement | 83
2023 prior to the vesting date that are not otherwise reflected in the fair value of such award or included in any other component of total compensation for calendar year 2023. The amounts added or subtracted to determine the adjusted amount for calendar year 2023 are as follows:
Year
  
Year End
Fair Value
of Equity
Awards
Granted in
the Year
($)
   
Year over
Year
Change in
Fair Value
of
Outstanding
and
Unvested
Equity
Awards at
FYE
Granted in
Prior Years
($)
  
Fair
Value as
of
Vesting
Date of
Equity
Awards
Granted
and
Vested in
the Year
($)
   
Change
in Fair
Value of
Equity
Awards
Granted
in Prior
Years
that
Vested
in
the
Year
($)
  
Fair Value
at the End
of the
Prior Year
of Equity
Awards
that Failed
to Meet
Vesting
Conditions
in the Year
($)
   
Value of
Dividends or
other
Earnings Paid
on Stock or
Option
Awards not
Otherwise
Reflected in
Fair Value or
Total
Compensation
in the
Summary
Compensation
Table for the
Year
($)
   
Adjusted 
Value of
Equity
Awards
($)
 
2023   1,129,841    (577,306      (166,425          386,110 
The fair value or change in fair value, as applicable, of equity awards was determined by reference to (1) for RSU awards, the closing price of our median employeecommon stock on the applicable measurement date and (2) for PSU awards, a Monte Carlo simulation as of the applicable measurement date.
(d)The amounts included in this column are the amounts reported in the “Change in Pension and Nonqualified Deferred Compensation” column of the Summary Compensation Table for calendar year 2023 corresponding to the aggregate change in the actuarial present value of Mr. Baker’s accumulated benefit under all defined benefit and actuarial pension plans. Please refer to the Summary Compensation Table in this Proxy Statement on page 67.
(e)The total pension benefit adjustments for calendar year 2023 include the aggregate of two components: (i) the actuarially determined service cost for services rendered by Mr. Baker during calendar year 2023 (the “service cost”); and (ii) the entire cost of benefits granted in a plan amendment (or initiation) during calendar year 2023 that are attributed by the benefit formula to services rendered in periods prior to the plan amendment or initiation (the “prior service cost”), in each case calculated in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The amounts deducted or added in calculating the pension benefit adjustments for calendar year 2023 are as follows:
Year
  
Service Cost
($)
  
Prior
Service
Cost
($)
  
Total
Pension
Benefit
   Adjustments   
($)
2023  295,110      295,110
(3)This column represents the average of the amounts reported for the Company’s NEOs as a group (excluding Mr. Baker) in the “Total” column of the Summary Compensation Table in each applicable year. Please refer to the Summary Compensation Table in the Company’s Proxy Statement on page 67 for the applicable calendar year. The names of each of the NEOs (excluding Mr. Baker) included for purposes of calculating the average amounts in each applicable calendar year are as follows: (i) for 2023, Messrs. Roberts, Lawlar, Brown, Sienko and Clary; (ii) for 2022, Messrs. Roberts, Lawlar, Brown, Sienko and Clary; and (iii) for 2021, Messrs. Roberts, Lawlar, Brown, Sienko and Hall.
(4)
This column represents the average amount of “compensation actually paid” to the NEOs as a group (excluding Mr. Baker), as computed in accordance with Item 402(v) of Regulation
S-K.
The dollar amounts do not reflect the actual average amount of compensation earned by or paid to the NEOs as a group (excluding Mr. Baker) during the applicable calendar year. In accordance with the requirements of Item 402(v) of Regulation
S-K,
the following adjustments were made to average total compensation for the NEOs as a group (excluding Mr. Baker) for calendar year to determine the “compensation actually paid” in calendar year 2023, using the same adjustment methodology described above in Note 2(c):
Year
  
Average
Reported
Summary
Compensation
Table Total for
Non-PEO

NEOs
(a)
($)
  
Average
Reported
Summary
Compensation
Table Value of
Non-PEO
NEO
Equity Awards
(b)
($)
 
Average Non-
PEO NEO
Adjusted Value
of Equity
Awards
(c)
($)
 
Average Reported
Summary
Compensation
Table Change in
Value
of Pension
Benefits for Non-
PEO NEOs
($)
 
Pension Benefits
Adjustments for
Non-PEO
NEOs
($)
  
Average
Compensation
Actually Paid to
   Non-PEO NEOs   
($)
2023    1,390,524    (335,549)   (69,460)   (353,139)   50,195    682,571
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(a)This column represents the average of the amounts reported for the Company’s NEOs as a group (excluding Mr. Baker) in the “Total” column of the Summary Compensation Table for calendar year 2023. Please refer to the Summary Compensation Table in the Company’s Proxy Statement on page 67 for calendar year 2023.
(b)
This column represents the average of the total amounts reported for the NEOs as a group (excluding Mr. Baker) in the “Stock Awards” column in the Summary Compensation Table in calendar year 2023. Please refer to the Summary Compensation Table in the Company’s Proxy Statement on page 67 for the applicable calendar year. The amount in this column is replaced with the amount reported under the Average
non-PEO
NEO Adjusted Value of Equity Awards column in order to arrive at compensation actually paid.
(c)This column represents an adjustment to the average of the amounts reported for the NEOs as a group (excluding Mr. Baker) in the “Stock Awards” column in the Summary Compensation Table for calendar year 2023 determined using the same methodology described above in Note 2(c). For calendar year 2023, the adjusted amount replaces the “Stock Awards” column in the Summary Compensation Table for each NEO (excluding Mr. Baker) for that year. The amounts added or subtracted to determine the adjusted average amount for calendar year 2023 are as follows:
Year
  
Average
Year End
Fair
Value of
Equity
Awards
Granted
in the
Year to
Non-PEO

NEOs
($)
  
Average
Year over
Year
Change in
Fair Value
of
Outstanding
and
Unvested
Equity
Awards at
FYE
Granted in
Prior Years
($)
 
Average
Fair
Value as
of
Vesting
Date of
Equity
Awards
Granted
in the
Year and
Vested
in the
Year
($)
  
Average
Change
in Fair
Value of
Equity
Awards
Granted
in Prior
Years
that
Vested
in the
Year
($)
 
Average
Fair Value
at the End
of the
Prior Year
of Equity
Awards
that Failed
to Meet
Vesting
Conditions
in the
Year
($)
 
Average
Value of
Dividends or
other
Earnings Paid
on Stock or
Option
Awards not
Otherwise
Reflected in
Fair Value or
Total
Compensation
in the
Summary
Compensation
Table for the
Year
($)
  
  Adjusted  
Average
Value of
Equity
Award
($)
2023    218,895    (92,765)       (39,702)   (155,888)       (69,460)
The fair value or change in fair value, as applicable, of equity awards was 44determined by reference to 1.

(1) for RSU awards, the closing price of our common stock on the applicable measurement date, and (2) for PSU awards, a Monte Carlos simulation as of the applicable measurement date.

(d)The amounts included in this column represent the average of the amounts reported in “Change in Pension and Nonqualified Deferred Compensation” column of the Summary Compensation Table for the NEOs as a group (excluding Mr. Baker) in calendar year 2023 corresponding to the aggregate change in the actuarial present value of the NEOs’ as a group (excluding Mr. Baker) accumulated benefit under all defined benefit and actuarial pension plans.. Please refer to the Summary Compensation Table in this Proxy Statement on page 67.
(e)The total pension benefit adjustments for calendar year 2023 are the aggregate of two components, averaged for the NEOs as a group (excluding Mr. Baker) in calendar year 2023: (i) the actuarially determined service cost for services rendered by the applicable NEO during calendar year 2023 (the “service cost”); and (ii) the entire cost of benefits granted in a plan amendment (or initiation) during calendar year 2023 that are attributed by the benefit formula to services rendered in periods prior to the plan amendment or initiation (the “prior service cost”), in each case calculated in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The amounts deducted or added in calculating the pension benefit adjustments for calendar year 2023 are as follows:
Year
  
Service
Cost
($)
   
Prior
Service
Cost
($)
  
Total
Pension
Benefit
Adjustments
($)
 
2023   50,195      50,195 
(5)Company TSR is calculated by dividing the sum of the cumulative amount of dividends for each measurement period (2020-2021, 2020-2022 and 2020-2023), assuming dividend reinvestment, and the difference between the Company’s share price at the end and the beginning of the measurement period by the Company’s share price at the beginning of the measurement period.
(6)
This column represents cumulative peer group TSR computed in accordance with Note 5. The peer group used for this purpose is the following published industry index: Philadelphia Gold and Silver Index. We selected the Philadelphia Gold and Silver Index as the peer group TSR for fiscal 2023 because it is the same index that is used by the Company in the performance graph in the Company’s Form
10-K
for calendar year 2023. The peer group is different than the peer group used in this disclosure in the Proxy Statement filed for calendar year 2022, which was the S&P 500 Gold Index. The cumulative peer group TSR of the S&P 500 Gold Index (computed in accordance with Note 5), our peer group for calendar year 2022, was $76.58, $117.47, $135.75, and $132.26 for 2020-2023, 2020-2022, 2020-2021 and 2020, respectively.
(7)This column represents the amount of net income reflected in the Company’s audited financial statements for the applicable year.
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(8)
Adjusted EBITDA Less Capital is calculated as net (loss) income before the following items: interest expense, income tax benefit, depreciation, depletion, and amortization expense,
ramp-up
and suspension costs, loss on disposition of properties, plants, equipment and mineral interests, , foreign exchange gain, unrealized (gain) loss on derivative contracts, provisional price loss (gain), provision for closed operations and environmental matters, stock-based compensation, unrealized loss on investments, adjustment of inventory to net realizable value, monetization of zinc and lead hedges and other income (“adjusted EBITDA”) less capital expenditures at the Company’s operations.
(9)
Due to an administrative error, the calendar year 2022 entries under the “Average Summary Compensation Table Total for
Non-PEO
NEOs” and the “Average Compensation Actually Paid to Non-PEO NEOs” were overreported. The adjusted values are reflected in this table. Due to the administrative error, the previously reported amounts were $1,459,386 and $1,725,457, respectively.
Financial Performance Measures
As described in greater detail in the CD&A section of this Proxy Statement,    71

the Company’s executive compensation program reflects a
pay-for-performance


OTHER BENEFITS

Retirement Plan

Except

philosophy. The metrics that the Company uses for both our long-term and short-term incentive awards are selected based on an objective of incentivizing our NEOs to increase the value of our enterprise for our NEOs who are Canadian citizens, our NEOs participate in the Retirement Plan, which is a defined benefit plan. Canadian NEOs participate in Canada’s public retirement income system, which includes the following components: (i) the Canada (or Quebec) Pension Plan, which is a contributory, earnings-related social insurance program, and (ii) the Old Age Security program. In addition, the Registered Retirement Savings Plan is a tax-deferred individual savings plan available to Canadian employees. Mexican employees participate in Mexico’s public retirement income system, which is based on contributions the employee, employer and the government submit to the retirement savings system.shareholders. The system is administered through savings accounts managed by private fund managers selectedmost important financial performance measures used by the participant.

ContributionsCompany to the Retirement Plan, and the related expense or income, are based on general actuarial calculations and, accordingly, no portion of our contributions, and related expenses or income, is specifically attributable to our officers. We also have the SERP under which the amount of any benefits not payable under the Retirement Plan by reason of the limitations imposed by the Internal Revenue Code and/or the Employee Retirement Income Security Act, as amended (the “Acts”), and the loss, if any, due to a deferral of salary made under our KEDCP will be paid out of our general funds to any employee covered by the SERP who may be adversely affected. Under the Acts, the current maximum annual pension benefit payable by the Retirement Plan to any employee is $230,000 (for 2021), subject to specified adjustments, and is calculated using earnings not more than $290,000. Upon reaching the normal retirement age of 65, each participant is eligible to receive annual retirement benefits in monthly installments for life equal to, for each year of credited service, 1% of final average annual earnings (defined as the highest average earnings of such employee for any 36 consecutive calendar months for participants hired on or before June 30, 2013, and as the highest average earnings of such employee for any 60 consecutive calendar months, for participants hired after June 30, 2013, during the final 120 calendar months of service) up to the applicable coveredlink executive compensation level (which level is based on the Social Security maximum taxable wage base) and 1.75% of the difference, if any, between final average annual earnings and the applicable covered compensation level. The Retirement Plan and SERP define earnings for purposes of the plans to be “a wage or salary for services of employees inclusive of any bonus or special pay including gain-sharing programs, contract miners’ bonus pay and the equivalent,” except that on or after July 1, 2013, earnings are defined as “base salary or wages for personal services and elective deferrals plus (i) elective deferrals not includable in the gross income of the employee under Code Sections 125, 132(f)(4), 402(e)(3), 402(h), 403(b) and 457, (ii) one-half (1/2) of any performance-based or STIP bonus, (iii) one-half (1/2) of any safety incentive award, (iv) paid time off, other than pay while on disability leave, (v) any post-employment payment for services performed during the course of employment that would have beenactually paid to the employee priorCompany’s NEOs, for the most recently completed calendar year, to the severance from employment ifCompany’s performance are as follows:

Adjusted EBITDA Less Capital;
Silver Equivalent Production Growth;
Exploration Metrics (adding reserves and resources);
All-Injury
Frequency Rate;
Sustainalytics ESG Rating;
Mine Site Operating Cash Flow Less Capital; and
Adjusted EBITDA Less Capital;
Relative Total Shareholder Return.
Description of the employee had continuedInformation Presented in employmentthe Pay versus Performance Table
As described in greater detail in the CD&A section of this Proxy Statement, the Company’s executive compensation program reflects a
pay-for-performance
philosophy. While the Company utilizes several performance measures to align executive compensation with Hecla,Company performance (as described in greater detail in the CD&A section of this Proxy Statement), not all of those Company measures are presented in the Pay versus Performance table. Moreover, the Company generally seeks to incentivize long-term performance, and (vi)therefore does not specifically align the Company’s performance measures with compensation that is actually paid (as computed in accordance with Item 402(v) of Regulation
S-K)
for overtime ata particular year. Compensation actually paid is influenced by numerous factors, including but not limited to the employee’s regular ratetiming of pay.”new grant issuances and outstanding grant vesting, share price volatility during the calendar year, our mix of short-and long-term metrics, and many other factors. In accordance with Item 402(v) of Regulation
S-K,
the Company is providing the following descriptions of the relationships between information presented in the Pay versus Performance table.
Cumulative TSR of the Company and Cumulative TSR of the Peer Group
The TSR of the Company, assuming an initial fixed $100 investment and computed in accordance with the requirements of Item 402(v) of Regulation
S-K,
was $144.62, $166.27, $155.48, and $191.63 for 2020-2023, 2020-2022 , 2020-2021 and 2020, respectively. The TSR of the Company’s peer group selected for this fiscal year (the Philadelphia Gold and silver Index), assuming an initial fixed $100 investment and computed in accordance with the requirements of Item 402(v) of Regulation
S-K,
was $125.65, $118.52, $127.24, and $136.04 for 2020-2023, 2020-2022, 2020-2021 and 2020, respectively. The TSR of the Company’s peer group selected for the immediately preceding calendar year (the S&P 500 Gold Index), assuming an initial fixed $100 investment and computed in accordance with the requirements of Item 402(v) of Regulation
S-K,
was $76.58, $117.47, $135.75, and $132.26 for 2020-2023, 2020-2022, 2020-2021 and 2020, respectively. Please see Note 5 and Note 6, above, for additional information related to the computation of Company TSR and peer group TSR, respectively.
Compensation Actually Paid and Cumulative Company TSR
The compensation actually paid to our CEO, as computed in accordance with the requirements of Item 402(v) of Regulation
S-K,
was $2,922,539, $6,145,949, $3,177,762, and $7,046,358 for 2023, 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The average amount of
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86 | 2024 Proxy Statement
compensation actually paid to the other NEOs as a group (excluding Mr. Baker), as computed in accordance with Item 402(v) of Regulation
S-K,
was $682,571, $1,674,298, $305,615, and $2,457,104 for 2023, 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The TSR of the Company, assuming an initial fixed $100 investment and computed in accordance with the requirements of Item 402(v) of Regulation
S-K,
was $144.62, $166.27, $155.48, and $
191.63 f
or 2020-2023, 2020-2022, 2020-2021 and 2020, respectively. Please see Note 5 above for additional information related to the computation of Company TSR.
Compensation Actually Paid and Company Net (Loss) Income
The compensation actually paid to our CEO, as computed in accordance with the requirements of Item 402(v) of Regulation
S-K,
was $2,922,539, $6,145,949, $3,177,762, and $7,046,358 for 2023, 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The average amount of compensation actually paid to the other NEOs as a group (excluding Mr. Baker), as computed in accordance with Item 402(v) of Regulation
S-K,
was $682,571, $1,674,298, $305,615, and $2,457,104 for 2023, 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The Company’s net (loss) income, as computed in accordance with Item 402(v) of Regulation
S-K
and reflected in the Company’s audited financial statements for the applicable year, was ($84.2) million, ($37.3) million, $35.1 million, and ($9.5) million for 2023, 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Compensation Actually Paid and Company Adjusted EBITDA Less Capital
The compensation actually paid to our CEO, as computed in accordance with the requirements of Item 402(v) of Regulation
S-K,
was $2,922,539, $6,145,949, $3,177,762, and $7,046,358 for 2023, 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The average amount of compensation actually paid to the other NEOs as a group (excluding Mr. Baker), as computed in accordance with Item 402(v) of Regulation
S-K,
was $682,571, $1674,298, $305,615, and $2,457,104 for 2023, 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The Company’s Adjusted EBITDA Less Capital, computed as described in Note 8 above, was ($11.3) million, $69.8 million, $169.9 million, and $130.7 million, for 2023, 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
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Other Matters

 

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Other Benefits

The following table shows estimated aggregate annual benefits under our Retirement Plan and the SERP payable upon retirement to a participant who retires in 2021 at age 65 having the years of service and final average annual earnings as specified. The table assumes Social Security covered compensation levels as in effect on January 1, 2021.

Estimated Annual Retirement Benefits

Final Average

Annual Earnings

  Years of Credited Service 
  5   10   15   20   25   30   35 

$  100,000

  

$

5,204

 

  

$

10,408

 

  

$

15,612

 

  

$

20,816

 

  

$

26,020

 

  

$

31,224

 

  

$

36,428

 

    150,000

  

 

9,579

 

  

 

19,158

 

  

 

28,737

 

  

 

38,316

 

  

 

47,895

 

  

 

57,474

 

  

 

67,053

 

    200,000

  

 

13,954

 

  

 

27,908

 

  

 

41,862

 

  

 

55,816

 

  

 

69,770

 

  

 

83,724

 

  

 

97,678

 

    250,000

  

 

18,329

 

  

 

36,658

 

  

 

54,987

 

  

 

73,316

 

  

 

91,645

 

  

 

109,974

 

  

 

128,303

 

    300,000

  

 

22,704

 

  

 

45,408

 

  

 

68,112

 

  

 

90,816

 

  

 

113,520

 

  

 

136,224

 

  

 

158,928

 

    350,000

  

 

27,079

 

  

 

54,158

 

  

 

81,237

 

  

 

108,316

 

  

 

135,395

 

  

 

162,474

 

  

 

189,553

 

    400,000

  

 

31,454

 

  

 

62,908

 

  

 

94,362

 

  

 

125,816

 

  

 

157,270

 

  

 

188,724

 

  

 

220,178

 

    450,000

  

 

35,829

 

  

 

71,658

 

  

 

107,487

 

  

 

143,316

 

  

 

179,145

 

  

 

214,974

 

  

 

250,803

 

    500,000

  

 

40,204

 

  

 

80,408

 

  

 

120,612

 

  

 

160,816

 

  

 

201,020

 

  

 

241,224

 

  

 

281,428

 

    550,000

  

 

44,579

 

  

 

89,158

 

  

 

133,737

 

  

 

178,316

 

  

 

222,895

 

  

 

267,474

 

  

 

312,053

 

    600,000

  

 

48,954

 

  

 

97,908

 

  

 

146,862

 

  

 

195,816

 

  

 

244,770

 

  

 

293,724

 

  

 

342,678

 

    650,000

  

 

53,329

 

  

 

106,658

 

  

 

159,987

 

  

 

213,316

 

  

 

266,645

 

  

 

319,974

 

  

 

373,303

 

    700,000

  

 

57,704

 

  

 

115,408

 

  

 

173,112

 

  

 

230,816

 

  

 

288,520

 

  

 

346,224

 

  

 

403,928

 

    750,000

  

 

62,079

 

  

 

124,158

 

  

 

186,237

 

  

 

248,316

 

  

 

310,395

 

  

 

372,474

 

  

 

434,553

 

    800,000

  

 

66,454

 

  

 

132,908

 

  

 

199,362

 

  

 

265,816

 

  

 

332,270

 

  

 

398,724

 

  

 

465,178

 

    850,000

  

 

70,829

 

  

 

141,658

 

  

 

212,487

 

  

 

283,316

 

  

 

354,145

 

  

 

424,974

 

  

 

495,803

 

    900,000

  

 

75,204

 

  

 

150,408

 

  

 

225,612

 

  

 

300,816

 

  

 

376,020

 

  

 

451,224

 

  

 

526,428

 

    950,000

  

 

79,579

 

  

 

159,158

 

  

 

238,737

 

  

 

318,316

 

  

 

397,895

 

  

 

477,474

 

  

 

557,053

 

  1,000,000

  

 

83,954

 

  

 

167,908

 

  

 

251,862

 

  

 

335,816

 

  

 

419,770

 

  

 

503,724

 

  

 

587,678

 

Benefits listed in the pension table are not subject to any deduction for Social Security or other offset amounts. As of December 31, 2021, the following executive officers have completed the indicated number of full years of credited service: Mr. Baker, 20 years; Mr. Lawlar, 10 years; Mr. Roberts, 10 years; Mr. Brown, 6 years; Mr. Sienko, 11 years; and Mr. Hall, 5 years.

2022 Proxy Statement    73


OTHER MATTERS

Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions

On a quarterly basis, we review all relationships and transactions with related persons to determine whether such persons have a direct or indirect material interest. Transactions with related persons are those that involve our directors, executive officers, director nominees, greater than 5% shareholders, immediate family members of these persons, or entities in which one of these persons has a direct or indirect material interest. Transactions that are reviewed as related party transactions by us are transactions that involve amounts that would exceed $120,000 (the current threshold required to be disclosed in the Proxy Statement under SEC regulations)and NYSE rules) and certain other transactions. Pursuant to our Code of Conduct, employees and directors have a duty to report any potential conflicts of interest to the appropriate level of management or to the Governance Committee. Our Board and NEOs respond to a quarterly related party transaction questionnaire prepared by our corporate legal department. We then evaluate these quarterly reports along with responses to our annual director and officer questionnaires for any indication of possible related party transactions. Our legal staff is primarily responsible for the development and implementation of processes and controls to obtain information from the directors and executive officers with respect to related party transactions. If a transaction is deemed by us to be a related party transaction, the information regarding the transaction is discussed with the Board. As required under the SEC rules, transactions that are determined to be directly or indirectly material to Hecla or a related party are disclosed in our Proxy Statement.

In December 2007,2023, we created the Hecla Charitable Foundation (the “HCF”), which has providedhad no related party transactions and, intends to continue to provide grants to other organizations for charitable and educational purposes. Mr. Phillips S. Baker, Jr., our CEO, serves as a director of the HCF, and Russell D. Lawlar, our Sr. Vice President and CFO, serves as Vice Presidentdate of the HCF. In December 2007, our Board approved a contribution of 550,000 shares of our common stock to the HCF. Since 2007, the HCF sold the 550,000 shares of our common stock. In May 2020, our Board approved a contribution of 650,000 shares of our common stock to the HCF. Cash contributions totaling $2.0 million and $1.5 million were made by the Company to the HCF during 2011 and 2010, respectively. The funds from the sale of the shares and the additional cash were put into various investment accounts. The HCF is currently operating in a self-sufficient manner. The HCF holds 160,000 shares of our common stock as of December 31, 2021. The value of those shares based on the closing price of our common stock on the NYSE on December 31, 2021 ($5.22), was $835,200.this Proxy Statement, no related party transactions are proposed.

In 2021, we did not make any contribution to any charitable organization, of which a director served as an executive officer, which exceeded the greater of $1 million or 2% of the charitable organization’s consolidated gross revenues.

Political Contributions and Engagement

Government policy is one of the most powerful external forces affecting usHecla today. New laws and changes to existing laws can fundamentally impact the Company’s operations and the markets where it doeswe do business – and in turn, our bottom line, thereby affecting us and our employees, retirees, communities, and shareholders. It is important for government leaders to understand the impact of such actions. Because the impact of government policy is so critical to our survival and success, we participate in the political process and advocate in a responsible and constructive manner on issues that advance the Company’s goals and protect shareholder value. We are committed to the highest standard of ethical conduct in our involvement in policymaking and political process. We maintain the Hecla Mining Company Political Action Committee (“Hecla PAC”), which is a forum for our employees and directors to voluntarily contribute to a fund that supports the election of candidates to Congress that support a regulatory and legislative environment constructive to the operation and development of our mines. The Hecla PAC is organized under the provisions of the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971, and the amendments of 1974, 1976 and 1979.as amended. Decisions about contributions to specific federal candidates are made by members of the Hecla PAC. In total, our employees contributed approximately $17,217$5,525, and our directors $5,000, to the Hecla PAC in 2021, and our directors contributed $12,500 in 2021.2023. The Hecla PAC then contributed those funds to federal candidates, state and local parties, and associations who are advocates for the natural resources industry. We file all required Hecla PAC contribution reports with the Federal Election Commission.

Delinquent Section 16(a) Reports

Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act requires our directors, executive officers, and holders of more than 10% of our common stock to file with the SEC reports regarding their ownership and changes in theirthe ownership of our

74     www.hecla-mining.com


Other Matters

common stock. These persons are required by the SEC to furnish us with copies of all Section 16(a) forms they file. The SEC has designated specific due dates for these reports, and we must identify in this Proxy Statement those persons who did not file these reports when due. To our knowledge, and based solely on our review of copies of such forms, or written representations from certain reporting persons that no such forms were required, we believe that during the calendar year ended December 31, 2021,2023, all filing requirements applicable to our officers, directors and greater than 10% owners of our common stock were timely satisfied, with the exception of Mr. BakerCarlos Aguiar, our Vice President – Operations filing a late Form 43 on March 3, 2021February 5, 2024, to report shares solddirectly held, unvested PSUs, and unvested RSUs which were held by him on February 24, 2021. The late filingas of December 15, 2023, when he became a reporting officer of Hecla under Rule 16a-1(f) under the Exchange Act when he was due to Mr. Baker’s stock brokerage firm not communicating that they had sold the shares in a timely manner.appointed as Vice President – Operations.

Shareholder proposals to be included in next year’s Proxy Statement

We will comply with Rule 14a-8 under the Exchange Act with respect to any shareholder proposals that meet that rule’s requirements. We will review shareholder proposals intended to be included in our Proxy Statement for the 20232024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders which are received by us at our principal executive offices located at 6500 N. Mineral Drive, Suite 200, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho 83815-9408, no later than December 7, 2022.5, 2024. Such proposals must be submitted in writing and should be sent to the attention of our Corporate Secretary.

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You may contact the Corporate Secretary at our principal executive offices for a copy of the relevant Bylaw provisions regarding the requirements for making shareholder proposals and nominating director candidates.

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management

The following table shows the number and percentage of shares of common stock each director and each executive officer named in the Summary Compensation Table for 20212023 beneficially owned as of March 28, 2022,18, 2024, our record date for the Annual Meeting, as well as the number owned by all directors and executive officers as a group. On the record date, all such persons together beneficially owned an aggregate of 1.6%1.4% of the outstanding shares of our common stock. Except as otherwise indicated, the directors, nominees and officers have sole voting and investment power with respect to the shares listed, including shares which the individual has the right to acquire, but has not done so.

 

      Title of

Class
     Shares Beneficially Owned Percent of

Class
 

Name of Beneficial Owner

    Number     Nature

Phillips S. Baker, Jr.

President and CEO

    3,361,288     2,620,520Direct(1)   Direct(2)  
         46,78752,022     401(k) Plan  
  
     223,923260,552     RSU(3)(2)  
  
     1,795,964     Deferred(4)(3)  
  
     195,465288,310     PSU(5)(4)  
  

     Common      4,882,6595,758,136        *

Robert D. Brown

266,941Direct(2)

Vice President – Corporate Development

& Sustainability

     

– –

82,682


401(k) Plan  

RSU(3)

391,394     47,978Direct(1)
401(k) Plan
69,380RSU(2)
51,009     PSU(5)(4)  
  

     Common      397,601511,783        *

Russell D. LawlarMichael L. Clary

Sr.Senior Vice President and CFO– Chief Administrative Officer

         9,200120,128(6)     Direct(2)(1)  
         4,2438,097     401(k) Plan  
  
     43,83375,269     RSU(3)(2)  
  
     13,95954,415     PSU(5)(4)  
  

     Common      71,235257,909        *

Lauren M. RobertsRussell D. Lawlar

Sr.Senior Vice President and COO– Chief Financial Officer

         207,208123,322     Direct(2)(1)  
         5,59112,313     401(k) Plan  
  
     115,37180,937     RSU(3)(2)  
  
     339,11958,954 Deferred(4)
68,541     PSU(5)(4)  
  

     Common      735,830275,526        *

David C. Sienko

Vice President – General Counsel

    772,607Direct(1)
11,435401(k) Plan
67,277RSU(2)
49,840PSU(4)
Common901,159*

Catherine J. Boggs

Director

138,185Direct(1)
117,214Indirect(5)
Common255,399*

George R. Johnson

Director

25,773Direct(1)
222,392Indirect(5)
Common248,165*

Stephen F. Ralbovsky

Director

39,630Direct(1)
188,885Indirect(5)
Common228,515*

 

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      Title of
Class
     Shares Beneficially Owned   Percent of
Class
    

Name of Beneficial Owner

    Number     Nature    

Charles B. Stanley

Director

               Direct(1)    
         263,778      Indirect(5)    
      Common      263,778           *    

Alice Wong

Director

               Direct(1)    
         74,300      Indirect(5)    
      Common      74,300           *    

Mark P. Board

Director

         16,950      Direct(1)    
               Indirect(5)    
      Common      16,950           *    

All current directors, director nominees and executive officers as a group (11 individuals)

     Common      8,791,620      

 

 

 

 

 

   1.4  

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Title of
Class
  Shares Beneficially Owned Percent of
Class
 

Name of Beneficial Owner

 Number   Nature

David C. Sienko

Vice President and General Counsel

   654,902   Direct(2) 
   3,780   401(k) Plan   
   79,213   RSU(3) 
   45,693   PSU(5) 
  

 

 

    
  Common   783,588     *     

Catherine J. Boggs

Director

   104,678   Direct(2) 
   106,046   Indirect(6) 
  

 

 

    
  Common   210,724     *     

Ted Crumley

Director

   76,536   Direct(2) 
   250,056   Indirect(6) 
  

 

 

    
  Common   326,592     *     

George R. Johnson

Director

   17,273   Direct(2) 
   177,717   Indirect(6) 
  

 

 

    
  Common   194,990     *     

Stephen F. Ralbovsky

Director

   6,123   Direct(2) 
   177,717   Indirect(6) 
  

 

 

    
  Common   183,840     *     

Terry V. Rogers

Director

   36,117   Direct(2) 
   138,119   Indirect(6) 
  

 

 

    
  Common   174,236     *     

Charles B. Stanley

Director

   --   Direct(2) 
   219,103   Indirect(6) 
  

 

 

    
  Common   219,103     *     

Alice Wong

Director

   --   Direct(2) 
   29,625   Indirect(6) 
  

 

 

    
  Common   29,625     *     

All current directors, director nominees and executive officers as a group (15 individuals)

  Common   8,433,039     1.6
*

Represents beneficial ownership of less than one percent, based upon 538,906,433616,792,499 shares of our common stock issued and outstanding as of March 28, 2022.18, 2024.

(1)

Includes 2,443,767 shares held jointly with Mr. Baker’s spouse, as to which Mr. Baker shares voting and investment power.

(2)

“Direct” means shares held of record and any shares beneficially owned through a trust, broker, financial institution, or other nominee, and with respect to which the officer or director has sole or shared voting power.

(3)(2)

“RSU” means restricted stock units awarded under the 2010 Stock Plan that have not vested. See footnote 1 of the Outstanding Equity Awardsat Fiscal Calendar Year-End for 20212023 on page 62.71.

(4)(3)

“Deferred Shares” means stock that has vested or been awarded but is deferred until a distributable event under the terms of the KEDCP. See Nonqualified Deferred Compensationfor 20212023 on page 65.75.

(5)(4)

“PSUs” means performance-based equity, based on a three-year TSR. See PSUs on page 5159 and Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Calendar Year-End for 20212023 table on page 62.71.

(6)(5)

“Indirect” means shares credited to each independent director, all of which are held indirectly in trust pursuant to our Stock Plan for Nonemployee Directors. Each director disclaims beneficial ownership of all shares held in trust under the stock plan. See Compensation of Non-Management Directors on page 26.33.

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Other Matters

To our knowledge, as of March 28, 2022,18, 2024, the only “beneficial owners” (as such term is defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act) of more than 5% of our common stock entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting are shown in the table below:

 

Title of Class

  Name & Address of Beneficial Owner  Amount & Nature of
Beneficial  Ownership
    Percent of  
Class
  Name & Address of Beneficial Owner  Amount & Nature of
Beneficial Ownership
   

 Percent of 

Class

 

Common

  

Van Eck Associates Corporation(1)

666 Third Ave. – 9th Floor

New York, NY 10017

    46,917,332    8.7%

Common

  

The Vanguard Group, Inc.(2)

100 Vanguard Blvd.

Malvern, PA 19355

    50,767,632    9.4%  

The Vanguard Group, Inc.(1)

100 Vanguard Blvd.

Malvern, PA 19355

   57,913,541    9.4

Common

  

BlackRock, Inc.(3)

55 East 52nd Street

New York, NY 10055

    40,459,141    7.5%

Common

  

Dimensional Fund Advisors LP(4)

Building One

6300 Bee Cave Rd.

Austin, TX 78746

    28,755,674    5.3%  

Van Eck Associates Corporation(2)

666 Third Ave. – 9th Floor

New York, NY 10017

   55,225,222    9.0

Common

Common

  

BlackRock, Inc.(3)

50 Hudson Yards

New York, NY 10001

   48,601,203    7.9

Common

Common

  

Wheaton Precious Metals Corp.(4)

Suite 3500 – 1021 West Hastings St.

Vancouver, British Columbia

V6E 0C3 Canada

   34,980,209    5.7

Common

Common

  

Dimensional Fund Advisors LP(5)

Building One

6300 Bee Cave Rd.

Austin, TX 78746

   34,919,760    5.7

(1)

Based solely on a Schedule 13G/A filed on February 11, 2022,13, 2024, with the SEC by The Vanguard Group, Inc. The Vanguard Group, Inc. has shared voting power with respect to 548,439 shares, sole dispositive power with respect to 56,736,003 shares, and shared dispositive power with respect to 1,177,538 shares. The aggregate amount of shares beneficially owned is 57,913,541 shares.

(2)

Based solely on a Schedule 13G/A filed on February 14, 2024, with the SEC by Van Eck Associates Corporation. Van Eck Associates Corporation has sole voting and dispositive power with respect to all shares.

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90 | 2024 Proxy Statement

(3)

Based solely on a Schedule 13G/A filed on February 10, 2022, with the SEC by The Vanguard Group, Inc. The Vanguard Group, Inc. has shared voting power with respect to 613,674 shares, sole dispositive power with respect to 49,677,744 shares, and shared dispositive power with respect to 1,089,888 shares.

(3)

Based solely on a Schedule 13G/A filed on February 1, 2022,January 26, 2024, with the SEC by BlackRock, Inc. BlackRock, Inc. has sole voting power with respect to 39,585,267 shares47,467,250 and sole dispositive power with respect to 40,459,14148,601,203 shares.

(4)

Based solely on a Schedule 13G/A filed on February 8, 2022,13, 2024, with the SEC by Wheaton Precious Metals Corp. Wheaton Precious Metals Corp. has sole voting and dispositive power with respect to the 34,980,209 shares.

(5)

Based solely on a Schedule 13G/A filed on February 9, 2024, with the SEC by Dimensional Fund Advisors LP. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP has sole voting power with respect to 28,206,95634,266,646 shares and sole dispositive power with respect to 28,755,67434,919,760 shares.

 

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONSFrequently Asked Questions

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How can I attend the Annual Meeting?

Attending the Annual Meeting in Person

 

 When:Thursday,May 26, 2022, at 8:30 a.m. PDT

 Where:  Elks Lodge #331, 419 Cedar St., Wallace, Idaho

  Friday,May 17, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. PDT
 Where:Hecla Mining Company’s Corporate Office, located at 6500 N. Mineral Dr., Suite 200, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

This year, the Annual Meeting will be conducted in personin-person and onlinevirtually via live webcast. All shareholders are invited to participate either in person or online. If participating in person we look forward to seeing you at Hecla’s corporate office in Wallace,Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. To participate in the Annual Meeting, please arrive at the Elks Lodge by 8:15corporate office 9:45 a.m. Pacific Daylight Time and present yourself at the registration desk. Time. Shareholders wishing to vote in personin-person during the Annual Meeting may pick up a ballot when they check in to the Annual Meeting.

Attending the Virtual Meeting

 

 When:Friday,May 17, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. PDT

 When:  Thursday,May 26, 2022, at 8:30 a.m. PDT

Where:

Live webcast online at http://www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/HL2022

HL2024

This year, the Annual Meeting will be conducted in person and online via live audio webcast. All shareholders are invited to participate either in person or online. If participating online,virtually, participants are encouraged to submit questions during the Annual Meeting by visiting www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/HL2022.HL2024. Your attendance at the Annual Meeting does not automatically revoke a proxy previously submitted by you and we encourage shareholders to cast their votes by proxy even if they intend to participate in the Annual Meeting. Shareholders wishing to vote electronically during the Annual Meeting must follow the instructions for voting by logging in to www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/HL2002HL2024.

To participate in the Annual Meeting, you will need the 16-digit control number included on your proxy card or your voting instruction form. The Annual Meeting will begin promptly at 8:3010:00 a.m. PDT and we encourage you to access the website prior to the start time. Online access will be available beginning at 8:159:45 a.m. PDT.

The virtual Annual Meeting platform is fully supported across web browsers (Internet Explorer,(Microsoft Edge, Firefox, Chrome, and Safari) and devices (desktops, laptops, tablets, and cell phones) running the most updated version of applicable software and plugins. Participants should ensure they have a strong Internet connection wherever they intend to participate in the virtual Annual Meeting. Participants should also allow plenty of time to login to ensure that they can hear streaming audio prior to the start of the Annual Meeting.

How can I ask questions during the Annual Meeting?

As part of the Annual Meeting, we will hold a live and online Q&A session, during which we intend to answer questions submitted before or during the Annual Meeting which are pertinent to the Company and the matters to be voted on, as time permits. Consistent with our prior annual meetings, we kindly ask shareholders not to ask more than one question in order to allow us to answer questions from as many shareholders as possible.

If you wish to submit a question, you may do so in two ways. If you want to ask a question before the meeting, then beginning at 8:3010:00 a.m. PDT on May 24, 2022,15, 2024, and until 11:59 p.m. PDT on May 25, 2022,16, 2024, you may log into www.proxyvote.com and enter your 16-digit control number. Once past the login screen, click on “Question for Management,” type in your question, and click “Submit.” Alternatively, if you want to submit your question during the meeting, log into the virtual meeting platform at www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/HL2022,HL2024, type your question into the “Ask a Question” field, and click “Submit.”

We want to be sure that all shareholders are afforded the same rights and opportunities to participate as they would at an in-person meeting. If you want to participate in our Annual Meeting but cannot submit your question using www.proxyvote.com or the Annual

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Meeting website, please contact our Investor Relations Department via email at hmc-info@hecla-mining.com for accommodations. Please include “Annual Meeting Question” in the subject line and provide your name and proof of stock ownership or the control number found on your Notice of Internet Availability, proxy card, or voting instruction form.

Questions pertinent to meeting matters will be answered during the meeting, subject to time constraints. Questions regarding personal matters, including those related to other matters that are not pertinent to the meeting, may not be answered. Any questions pertinent to meeting matters that cannot be answered during the meeting due to time constraints can be sent to our Company email address at hmc-info@hecla-mining.com. We will answer your questions as soon as practical after the meeting.

If you encounter any difficulties accessing the virtual meeting during the check-in or meeting time, please call the technical support number that will be posted on the Virtual Shareholder Meeting log-in page.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a “shareholder of record”?

A shareholder of record or registered shareholder (“record owner”) is a shareholder whose ownership of Hecla stock is reflected directly on the books and records of our transfer agent, American Stock Transfer &Equiniti Trust Company.Company, LLC. If you hold Hecla stock through a bank, broker, or other intermediary, you are not a shareholder of record. Instead, you hold your stock in “street name,” and the record owner of your shares is usually your bank, broker, or other intermediary. If you are not a record owner, please understand that Hecla does not know that you are a shareholder, or how many shares you own.

I want to attend the 20202024 Annual Meeting. What procedures must I follow?

The Annual Meeting will be conducted in personin-person and virtually. All shareholders will be able to attend the Annual Meeting via webcast by entering the 16-digit control number included on the Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy Materials, on your proxy card, or on the instructions that accompanied your proxy materials at www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/HL2022HL2024 (“Annual Meeting Website”). If you do not have a control number, you will be able to register as a guest; however, you will not be able to vote or submit questions before or during the meeting.

No recording of the Annual Meeting is allowed, including audio and video recording.

What can I do if I need technical assistance during the Annual Meeting?

If you encounter any difficulties accessing the annual Meeting webcast, please call the technical support number that will be posted on the Annual Meeting Website log-in page.

Are there Rules of Conduct for the Annual Meeting?

Yes, the Rules of Conduct for the Annual Meeting will be available on the Annual Meeting Website on the date of the Annual Meeting, and at the place of the in personin-person Annual Meeting. The Rules of Conduct will provide information regarding the rules and procedures for participating in the Annual Meeting.

What is the “record date” for the Annual Meeting?

March 28, 202218, 2024

How many shares of Hecla stock are outstanding?

As of March 28, 2022,18, 2024, there were 538,906,433616,792,499 shares of common stock outstanding and entitled to be voted. Shares of our common stock that are held by us in our treasury are not counted as shares outstanding and will not be voted. Each shareholder has one vote for each share of common stock held as of the Record Date.

I understand that a “quorum” of shareholders is required for Hecla to transact business at the Annual Meeting. What constitutes a quorum?

A quorum must be present for business to be conducted at the Annual Meeting. A quorum consists of the presence at the Annual Meeting, in personin-person or represented by proxy, of a majority of the outstanding shares of our common stock as of the Record Date. Shares represented by proxies marked “Abstain” and “broker non-votes” are counted in determining whether a quorum is present for the transaction of business at the Annual Meeting.

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Which Hecla shares will be entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting?

Hecla’s common stock ($0.25 par value capital stock) is the only class of security entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting. Each record owner and each shareholder who holds stock in street name at the close of business as of the record date is entitled to one vote for each share held at the meeting, or any adjournment or postponement.

How can I vote my shares?

If your shares are held in your name, you have the right to vote your shares at the Annual Meeting by following the instructions listed below. If your shares are held in a brokerage account or by another nominee, you are considered the beneficial owner of shares held in street name. Since a beneficial owner is not the shareholder of

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Frequently Asked Questions

record, you may not vote your shares at the Annual Meeting unless you obtain a “legal proxy” from your broker or nominee that holds your shares, giving you the right to vote the shares at the Annual Meeting.

Whether you hold shares directly as a shareholder of record or beneficially in street name, you may vote without participating in the Annual Meeting. You may vote by granting a proxy or, for shares held beneficially in street name, by submitting voting instructions to your broker or nominee. In most cases, you will be able to do this by using the Internet, by telephone, or by mail if you received a printed set of the Proxy Materials.

To vote by mail:

 

Mark, sign, and date your proxy card; and

Mark, sign, and date your proxy card; and

Return your proxy card in the enclosed postage-paid envelope.

Return your proxy card in the enclosed postage-paid envelope.

To vote by proxy over the Internet:

 

Have your proxy card or Notice available;

Have your proxy card or Notice available;

Log on to the Internet and visit the website noted on your proxy card or Notice (www.proxyvote.com);

Log on to the Internet and visit the website noted on your proxy card or Notice (www.proxyvote.com);

Follow the instructions provided; and

Follow the instructions provided; and

Do not mail your proxy card.

Do not mail your proxy card.

To vote by proxy by telephone:

 

Have your proxy card available;

Have your proxy card available;

Call the toll-free number listed on your proxy card (1-800-690-6903);

Call the toll-free number listed on your proxy card (1-800-690-6903);

Follow the recorded instructions; and

Follow the recorded instructions; and

Do not mail your proxy card.

Do not mail your proxy card.

To vote during the Annual Meeting:

 

Shares may be voted at the meeting by completing a ballot online during the meeting at www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/HL2024;and

Shares may be voted at the meeting by completing a ballot online during the meeting at www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/HL2022;and

Shares may be voted in-person at the meeting by completing a ballot during the meeting.

Shares may be voted in person at the meeting by completing a ballot during the meeting.

To vote your 401(k) Plan shares:

If you participate in the Hecla Mining Company Capital Accumulation Plan (“401(k) Plan”) and hold shares of our common stock in your 401(k) Plan account as of the Record Date, you will receive a request for voting instructions from the plan trustee (“Vanguard”) with respect to your 401(k) Plan shares. You are entitled to direct Vanguard how to vote your 401(k) Plan shares. If you do not provide voting instructions to Vanguard by 10:00 a.m.11:59 p.m., Eastern Daylight Time, on May 24, 2022,16, 2024, the Hecla shares in your 401(k) Plan account will be voted by Vanguard in the same proportion as the shares held by Vanguard for which voting instructions have been received from other participants in the 401(k) Plan.

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May I change or revoke my proxy?

Yes. If you are a shareholder of record, you may revoke your proxy and change your vote at any time before your proxy is voted at the Annual Meeting, in any of the following ways:

 

By sending a written notice of revocation to our Corporate Secretary, if such notice is received prior to the vote at the Annual Meeting, at our principal executive offices: Hecla Mining Company, Attn: Corporate Secretary, 6500 N. Mineral Dr., Suite 200, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815-9408.

By submitting a later-dated proxy to our Corporate Secretary prior to the vote at the Annual Meeting; or

 

By sending a written notice of revocation to our Corporate Secretary, if such notice is received prior to the vote at the Annual Meeting, at our principal executive offices: Hecla Mining Company, Attn: Corporate Secretary, 6500 N. Mineral Dr., Suite 200, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815-9408;

By submitting a later-dated proxy to our Corporate Secretary prior to the vote at the Annual Meeting; or

 

By voting online during the meeting if you are a “shareholder of record” or a “beneficial owner.”

If you hold your shares in street name, you should contact your broker for information on how to revoke your voting instructions and provide new voting instructions.

If you hold your shares in the 401(k) Plan, you may revoke your previously provided voting instructions by filing with Vanguard either a written notice of revocation or a properly executed proxy bearing a later date prior to the deadline for voting your 401(k) Plan shares. If you hold your Hecla shares outside of the 401(k) Plan, you may vote those shares separately.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Will my votes be confidential?

Yes. All shareholder meeting proxies, ballots, and tabulations that identify individual shareholders are kept confidential and are not available for examination. In addition, the identity or the vote of any shareholder is not disclosed except as required by law.

What is a “broker discretionary voting”?

This refers to the NYSE rule allowing brokers to vote their customers’ shares on certain “routine” matters in the Proxy Statement at the brokers’ discretion when they have not received timely voting instructions from their customers. The NYSE rules on broker discretionary voting prohibit banks, brokers, and other intermediaries from voting uninstructed shares on certain “routine” matters, including the election forof directors. Therefore, if you hold your stock in street name and you do not instruct your bank, broker, or other intermediary how to vote in the election of directors,on any proposal that is considered a “routine “ matter, no votes will be cast on your behalf.behalf with respect to such proposals. It is important that you cast your vote.

Are abstentions and broker non-votes counted as votes cast?

No. Abstentions and broker non-votes are not counted as votes cast and will have no effect on the outcome of the vote.

How can I contact Hecla’s transfer agent?

Contact our transfer agent either by writing American Stock Transfer &Equiniti Trust Company, 6201 15th Avenue, Brooklyn,LLC, 48 Wall Street, Floor 23, New York, 11219,New York 10005, or by telephoning 1-800-937-5449.1-800-468,9716.

What happens if I don’tdo not vote on a proposal on the proxy card?

If you properly sign and return your proxy card or complete your proxy via the telephone or Internet, your shares will be voted as you direct. If you sign and return your proxy card but do not specify how you want your shares voted they will be voted FOR (i) the election of the nominees for Director as set forth under Election of Class III II Directors; (ii) ratification of the appointment of the independent registered public accountants; and (iii) approval, on an advisory basis, of our executive compensation.

What is a Proxy?

A “proxy” is your legal appointment in a written document of another person to vote the shares that you own in accordance with your instructions. The persons you appoint to vote your shares are also called proxies. We have designated Phillips S. Baker, Jr., our President and CEO, and Michael B. White, our Corporate Secretary, as proxies for the Annual Meeting. When you sign the proxy card, you appoint each of Messrs. Baker and White as your representatives at the Annual Meeting. As your representatives, they will vote your shares at the Annual Meeting (including any adjournment or postponement) as you have instructed them on your proxy card.

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What Votes are Required for the Proposals?

Under NYSE rules, if your shares are held in street name and you do not indicate how you wish to vote, your broker is only permitted to exercise its discretion to vote your shares on certain “routine” matters. Proposal 2 (Ratify(Ratification of the Appointment of BDO USA, LLP)P.C. is a “routine” matter. Proposal 1 (Election of Class IIIII Directors), and Proposal 3 (Approval, on an advisory basis, of our Named Executive Officer Compensation)named executive officer compensation) are “non-routine” matters. Accordingly, if you do not direct your broker how to vote for Proposals 1 or 3, your broker is not permitted to exercise discretion and is not permitted to vote your shares on such matters. This is called a “broker non-vote.”

Proposal 1 – Election of two Class III II Directors. Pursuant to our Bylaws, each director will be elected by the affirmative vote of a majority of votes cast at the Annual Meeting, whether in personin-person or by proxy. Under a majority of votes cast standard, the shares voted “for” a nominee must exceed the number voted “against” that nominee. Shareholders may vote “for,“FOR,“against”“AGAINST” or “abstain”“ABSTAIN” with respect to this proposal. Abstentions and broker non-votes are not counted as votes cast, and thus will have no effect on the outcome of the vote. A properly executed proxy card marked “AGAINST” with respect to the election of directors will have an effect on the outcome of the vote. If the votes cast “against”“AGAINST” an incumbent director exceed the number of votes cast “for”“FOR” the

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Frequently Asked Questions

director, the director will not be elected, will remain on the board as a holdover director and must stand for election at the next annual meeting of shareholders, absent his or her earlier resignation or removal. See Majority Voting for Directors and Director Resignation Policy on page 1316 for a description of our director resignation policy.

You may vote “FOR,” “AGAINST,” or “ABSTAIN” on each nominee for election as a director.

Proposal 2 – Ratify the Appointment of BDO USA, LLPP.C. as our Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm for 20222024. Under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, the Audit Committee has the sole authority to appoint the independent registered public accounting firm for the Company. However, the Board feels that it is important for the shareholders to approve the selection of BDO USA, LLP.P.C. This proposal requires the affirmative vote of a majority of votes cast at the Annual Meeting, whether in personin-person or by proxy. Abstentions and broker non-votes are not counted as votes cast, and thus will have no effect on the outcome of the vote. Votes marked “AGAINST” will have an effect on the outcome of the vote. The appointment of our independent registered public accounting firm for calendar year 20222024 is considered a “routine” matter and brokers that are not directed how to vote are permitted to vote shares held in street name for their customers on this proposal.

You may vote “FOR,” “AGAINST,” or “ABSTAIN” on the proposal to ratify the appointment of BDO USA, LLPP.C. as our independent registered public accounting firm for 2022.2024.

Proposal 3 – Approval, on an Advisory Basis, of our Named Executive Officer Compensation. For more information on approval of our executive compensation see “Proposal 3 – Approval, on an Advisory Basis, of our Named Executive Officer Compensation” beginning on page 32.38. The advisory vote on name executive officer compensation will require the affirmative vote of a majority of votes cast at the Annual Meeting, whether in personin-person or by proxy. Under a majority of votes cast standard, the shares voted “for”“FOR” Proposal 3 must exceed the number voted “against”“AGAINST” Proposal 3 for the proposal to be approved. Abstentions and broker non-votes are not counted as votes cast for this purpose and will have no effect on the outcome of the vote. Votes marked “AGAINST” will have an effect on the outcome of the vote. Even though your vote is advisory and therefore will not be binding on the Company, the Board’s Compensation Committee will review the voting results and take them into consideration when making future decisions regarding executive compensation.

You may vote “FOR,” “AGAINST,” or “ABSTAIN” on the proposal to approve the compensation of our NEOs.

Discretionary voting by proxies on other matters. Aside from the proposals discussed above, no other proposals have been timely submitted in accordance with our Bylaws, and we do not know of any other proposal that may be presented at the Annual Meeting. However, if any other business is properly presented at the Annual Meeting, your proxy gives authority to Phillips S. Baker, Jr., and Michael B. White to vote on such matters at their discretion.

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96 | 2024 Proxy Statement

Assuming there is a proper quorum of shares represented at the Annual Meeting, how many shares are required to approve the proposals being voted upon in this Proxy Statement?

 

Proposal

Vote Required

Do abstentions count

as votes cast?

  Vote RequiredDo abstentions count
as votes cast?
Is broker discretionary
voting allowed?

Election of Class IIIII Directors

  Majority of votes cast  No  No

Ratify the Appointment of BDO LLPUSA, P.C.

  Majority of votes cast  No  Yes

Advisory Vote on Executive Compensation *

  Majority of votes cast  No  No

 

*

Advisory and non-binding

82     www.hecla-mining.com


Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find the voting results of the Annual Meeting?

Preliminary voting results will be announced at the Annual Meeting. We will publish the results in a Current Report on Form 8-K that we expect to file with the SEC within four business days of the Annual Meeting. After the Form 8-K is filed, you may obtain a copy by visiting the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml,edgar, visiting our website at www.hecla-mining.comhttps://www.hecla.com under “Investors,” and then selecting “Financial“Annual Reports & Filings,” or contacting our Investor Relations Department by writing to Investor Relations Department, Hecla Mining Company, 6500 N. Mineral Dr., Suite 200, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815-9408 or by sending an email to hmc-info@hecla-mining.com.

I received a Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy Materials. What does this mean?

Consistent with commonwidespread practice and in accordance with SEC rules, Hecla is distributing proxy materials to some shareholders over the Internet by sending a Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy Materials (“Notice”) that explains how to access our Proxy Materials and vote online. If you received a Notice and would like a printed copy of the proxy materials (including the Annual Report, Proxy Statement, and a proxy card in the case of record owners, or a voting instruction form in the case of shareholders holding shares in street name), please follow the instructions included in your Notice.

I received my proxy materials in hard copy. How may I arrange to receive electronic delivery of Proxy Materials, Annual Reports, News Releases, and documents filed with the SEC?

We want to communicate with you in the way that is most convenient for you. Our Proxy Materials are available on our website at www.hecla-mining.com.https://www.hecla.com. Instead of receiving paper copies of next year’s Proxy Materials by mail, you can elect to receive an email message that will provide a link to those documents online. By opting to access your Proxy Materials online, you will:

 

gain faster access to your Proxy Materials;

Gain faster access to your Proxy Materials;

save us the cost of producing and mailing documents to you; and

Save us the cost of producing and mailing documents to you; and

Help preserve environmental resources.

help preserve environmental resources.

If you are a shareholder of record, you may request and consent to electronic delivery of future Proxy Materials by following the instructions on your proxy card or by visiting our website at www.hecla-mining.comhttps://www.hecla.com under “Investors,” and then selecting “Electronic Proxy Request.” If your shares are held in street name, please contact your broker, and ask about the availability of electronic delivery. If you select electronic delivery, we will discontinue mailing the Proxy Materials to you beginning next year and you will be sent an email message notifying you of the Internet address or addresses where you may access the Proxy Materials. You can receive a free paper or email copy of this year’s Proxy Materials by requesting prior to May 12, 2022.3, 2024. If you would like to request a copy of the Proxy Materials for this and/or future shareholder meetings, you may (i) visit www.proxyvote.com, (ii) call 1-800- 579-1639,1-800-579-1639, or (3) send an email to sendmaterial@proxyvote.com. If sending an email, please include your control number (indicated on your Notice) in the subject line. Your consent to electronic delivery will remain in effect until you revoke it. If you selected electronic delivery last year, we willwould not mail the Proxy Materials to you this year and you will receive an email message with the Internet address where you may access the Proxy Materials for the current year.

Shareholders may also elect to receive notice of our filings with the SEC, annual reports, and news releases by email. You may sign up for this service by visiting our website at www.hecla-mining.comhttps://www.hecla.com under “Investors”“News & Media” and selecting “Receive Email Alerts.“Subscribe.

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2024 Proxy Statement | 97

What is “householding” and does Hecla do this?

Many brokerage firms, financial institutions and transfer agents have instituted “householding” procedures for beneficial owners and shareholders of record. Householding is when a single copy of our Proxy Materials is sent to a household in which two or more shareholders reside if they appear to be members of the same family. This practice is designed to reduce duplicate mailings and save significant printing and postage costs, as well as natural resources.

If you are a beneficial owner, you may have received householding information from your broker, financial institution, or other nominee shareholder in the past. Please contact the shareholder of record directly if you have

2022 Proxy Statement    83


Frequently Asked Questions

questions, require additional copies of our Proxy Materials, or wish to revoke your decision to household and thereby receive multiple copies. You should also contact the shareholder of record if you wish to institute householding. These options are available to you at any time.

Shareholders of record who share an address and would like to receive a separate copy of our Proxy Materials for future annual meetings, or have questions regarding the householding process, may contact our transfer agent, American Stock Transfer &Equiniti Trust Company, LLC, either by written request or by telephone at: American Stock Transfer &48 Wall Street, Floor 23, New York, New York 10005 – Telephone: 1-800-468,9716. By contacting Equiniti Trust Company, 6201 15th Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11219 – Telephone: 1-800-937-5449. By contacting American Stock Transfer & Trust Company,LLC, shareholders of record sharing an address can also request delivery of multiple copies of our Proxy Materials in the future.

Who is making this proxy solicitation and approximately how much will these solicitation activities cost?

We will bear all costs and expenses relating to the solicitation of proxies, including the costs of preparing, assembling, printing, mailing, and distributing these Proxy Materials. We have hired Broadridge to assist us in mailing these Proxy Materials. Additionally, we have retained Morrow Sodali LLC, 333 Ludlow Street, Fifth Floor, South tower,Tower, Stamford, Connecticut to assist in the solicitation of votes for an estimated fee of $9,000,$10,000, plus reimbursement of certain out-of-pocket expenses. Solicitations may be made personally or by mail, facsimile, telephone, or via the Internet. However, if you choose to access the Proxy Materials over the Internet, you are responsible for any Internet access charges you may incur. Arrangements will be made with brokerage firms and other custodians, nominees, and fiduciaries for forwarding solicitation materials to the beneficial owners of the shares of common stock held by such persons, and we will reimburse such brokerage firms, custodians, nominees, and fiduciaries for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred by them in connection with such activities.

Where can I get a copy of Hecla’s Annual Report?

Our Annual Report to Shareholders, consisting of our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021, and other information,2023, is being made available to shareholders with this Proxy Statement. Shareholders may obtain a copy of our Annual Report for the calendar year ended December 31, 2021,2023, without cost, by written or oral request to: Hecla Mining Company, Attention: Investor Relations, 6500 N. Mineral Dr., Suite 200, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho 83815-9408 – Telephone: 208-769-4100208-769-4100.

You can also access our SEC filings, including our Annual ReportsReport on Form 10-K, and all amendments thereto, on the SEC website at www.sec.gov/edgar.shtmledgar or on our website at www.hecla-mining.comhttps://www.hecla.com under “Investors,” and then selecting “Financial“Annual Reports & Filings.”

Where can I find additional information about Hecla?

The principal executive office of our Company is located at 6500 N. Mineral Dr., Suite 200, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho 83815. Our telephone number at this address is 208-769-4100. Our common stock is traded on the NYSE under the symbol “HL.”

We file annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and other information with the SEC. As an electronic filer, our public filings are maintained on the SEC’s Internet site that contains reports, proxy statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC. The address of that website is www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml.edgar.

Our annual reportAnnual Report to Shareholders for the year ended December 31, 2021,2023, including financial statements and schedules, is included with this Proxy Statement.

We maintain a company website at www.hecla-mining.comhttps://www.hecla.com from which you can alternatively access the reports we file with the SEC. Our committee charters and other important corporate governance documents are also available on our website.

 

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Frequently Asked QuestionsLOGO

 

98 | 2024 Proxy Statement

Other than the items in the Proxy Statement, what other items of business will be addressed at the Annual Meeting?

As of the date of this Proxy Statement, the Board is not aware of any matters that will be presented for action at the Annual Meeting other than those described above. However, should other business properly be brought before the Annual Meeting, the proxies will be voted thereon at the discretion of the persons acting thereunder.

 

By Order of the Board of Directors
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    LOGO

Michael B. White

Corporate Secretary

April 12, 20224, 2024

To the extent that this proxy statement is incorporated by reference into any other filing by the Company under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the sections of this proxy statement entitled titled Compensation Committee Report and Audit Committee Report (to the extent permitted by SEC rules) will not be deemed incorporated, unless specifically provided otherwise in such filing.

 

2022 Proxy Statement    85LOGO


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APPENDIXAppendix A

LOGO

Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures to GAAP

Reconciliation of Cash Provided by Operating Activities (GAAP) to Free Cash Flow (non-GAAP)

The non-GAAP measure of free cash flow is calculated as net cash provided by operating activities (GAAP) less additions to properties, plants, equipment, and mineral interests (GAAP). Management believes that, when presented in conjunction with comparable GAAP measures, free cash flow is useful to investors in evaluating our operating performance. The following table reconciles net cash provided by operating activities to free cash flow:

 

Dollars are in thousands

  December 31,
2021
 

Net cash provided by operating activities (GAAP)

  $220,337 

Less: Additions to properties, plants, equipment and mineral interests (GAAP)

   (109,048
  

 

 

 

Free cash flow10

  $111,289 
  

 

 

 

in thousands

  December 31,
2023
 

Net cash provided by operating activities (GAAP)

  $75,499 

Less: Additions to properties, plants, equipment, and mineral interests (GAAP)

   (223,887

Free cash flow(7)

  $(148,388) 

Reconciliation of Mine Site Cash Provided by Operating Activities (GAAP) to Mine Site Operating Cash Flow Less Capital (non-GAAP)

The non-GAAP measure of mine site operating cash flow less capital, which is a performance measure for our LTIP, is calculated as mine site cash provided by operating activities, less additions to properties, plants, equipment, and mineral interests. Management believes that, when presented in conjunction with comparable GAAP measures, mine site operating cash flow less capital is useful to investors in evaluating our operating performance. The following table reconciles mine site cash provided by operating activities to mine site operating cash flow less capital:

 

Dollars are in thousands

  December 31,
2021
 

in thousands

  December 31,
2023
 

Mine site cash provided by operating activities

  $445,927 

Less: Additions to properties, plants equipment and mineral interests

   (289,821

Mine site cash provided by operating activities

Mine site cash provided by operating activities

Mine site cash provided by operating activities

  $192,821 

Additions to properties, plants equipment and mineral interests

Additions to properties, plants equipment and mineral interests

Additions to properties, plants equipment and mineral interests

Additions to properties, plants equipment and mineral interests

   (223,607
  

 

 

Mine site operating cash flow less capital

  $156,106 
  

 

 

Mine site operating cash flow less capital

Mine site operating cash flow less capital

Mine site operating cash flow less capital

  $(30,786) 

Reconciliation of (Loss) Net Income (Loss) (GAAP) to Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (non-GAAP)

The non-GAAP measure of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (“EBITDA”)(EBITDA) is calculated as net income (loss) before the following items: interest expense, income tax benefit provision, and depreciation, depletion, and amortization expense. Management believes that, when presented in conjunction with comparable GAAP measures, EBITDA is useful to investors in evaluating our operating performance. The table below presents reconciliations between the GAAP measure of net loss to the non-GAAP measure EBITDA for the years ended December 31, 2021, 20202023, 2022 and 2019 (in thousands).2021.

 

  Year ended December 31,   Year ended December 31, 

in thousands

  2023   2022 2021 
  2021 2020 2019 

Net income (loss) (GAAP)

  

$

35,095

 

 

$

(9,457

 

$

(94,909

Net (loss) income (GAAP)

Net (loss) income (GAAP)

Net (loss) income (GAAP)

Net (loss) income (GAAP)

  $(84,217  $(37,348 $35,095 

Interest expense

  

 

41,945

 

 

 

49,569

 

 

 

48,447

 

Income tax (benefit) provision

  

 

(29,569

 

 

8,199

 

 

 

(18,318

Interest expense

Interest expense

Interest expense

   43,319    42,793  41,945 

Income and mining tax provision (benefit)

Income and mining tax provision (benefit)

Income and mining tax provision (benefit)

Income and mining tax provision (benefit)

   1,222    (7,566 (29,569

Depreciation, depletion, and amortization

Depreciation, depletion, and amortization

Depreciation, depletion, and amortization

Depreciation, depletion, and amortization

  

 

172,651

 

 

 

155,006

 

 

 

196,408

 

   163,672    143,938  171,793 
  

 

  

 

  

 

 

EBITDA

  

$

220,122

 

 

$

203,317

 

 

$

131,628

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

 

EBITDA

EBITDA

EBITDA

  $123,996   $141,817  $219,264 

 

10(7)

Free cash flow is calculated as cash provided by operating activities (GAAP) less additions to properties, plans equipment, and mineral interests (GAAP).equipment. Free cash flow is a measure used by management to evaluate the Company’s operating performance but should not be considered as an alternative to cash flow from operations, as that term is defined by GAAP.

 

2022 Proxy Statement    A-1LOGO


 


Appendix ALOGO

 

A-2 | 2024 Proxy Statement

Reconciliation of Net (Loss) Income (Loss) (GAAP) to Adjusted EBITDA Less Capital (non-GAAP)

The non-GAAP measure of Adjusted EBITDA less capital for use in STIP performance measurement is calculated as net (loss) income (loss) before the following items: interest expense, income tax benefit, depreciation, depletion, and amortization expense, acquisition costs, loss (gain) on disposition of properties, plants, equipment and mineral interests, suspension costs, foreign exchange loss (gain), unrealized loss (gain) on derivative contracts, provisional price (gains) losses, provisions for closed operations expense, stock-based compensation, unrealized losses on investments, interest and other income/expense, gain on sale of investments (“adjusted EBITDA”)(adjusted EBITDA) less capital expenditures at our operations.

The following table reconciles net loss(loss) income to adjusted EBITDA less capital (in thousands):capital:

 

    Year Ended
December 31,
 
    2021  2020 

Net income (loss)

  

$

35,095

 

 

$

(9,457

Plus: Interest expense, net of amount capitalized

  

 

41,945

 

 

 

49,569

 

Plus: Income taxes

  

 

(29,569

 

 

8,199

 

Plus: Depreciation, depletion and amortization

  

 

172,651

 

 

 

155,006

 

�� 

 

 

  

 

 

 

EBITDA

  

 

220,122

 

 

 

203,317

 

Less: Depreciation, depletion and amortization not at operating mines

  

 

(858

 

 

(6,896

Plus: Ramp-up and Suspension costs

  

 

23,012

 

 

 

24,911

 

Plus: Loss on disposition of properties, plants, equipment and mineral interests

  

 

87

 

 

 

572

 

Less/plus: Foreign exchange loss (gain)

  

 

(417

 

 

4,605

 

Plus: Unrealized losses on derivative contracts

  

 

11,903

 

 

 

5,578

 

Less: Provisional price gains

  

 

(9,349

 

 

(8,008

Plus: Provision for closed operations and environmental matters

  

 

17,964

 

 

 

6,189

 

Plus: Stock-based compensation

  

 

6,081

 

 

 

6,458

 

Plus/less: Unrealized losses (gains) on investments

  

 

4,295

 

 

 

(10,272

Plus: Adjustments of inventory to net realizable value

  

 

6,524

 

 

 

--

 

Plus: Foundation grant

  

 

--

 

 

 

1,970

 

Less/plus: Other

  

 

(584

 

 

2,260

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Adjusted EBITDA11

  

 

278,780

 

 

 

230,684

 

Less: Capital expenditures at operating mines

  

 

(108,855

 

 

(99,939

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Adjusted EBITDA less capital

  

$

169,925

 

 

$

130,745

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 
    Year Ended
December 31,
 

in thousands

  2023  2022  2021 

Net (loss) income

  $(84,217 $(37,348 $35,095 

Interest expense

   43,319   42,793   41,945 

Income and mining tax provision (benefit)

   1,222   (7,566  (29,569

Depreciation, depletion, and amortization

   163,672   143,938   171,793 

EBITDA

   123,996   141,817   219,264 

Ramp-up and suspension costs

   76,252   24,114   23,012 

Loss on disposition of properties, plants, equipment, and mineral interests

   849   16   87 

Foreign exchange loss (gain)

   3,810   (7,211  (417

Unrealized (gain) loss on derivative contracts

   (3,168  (844  11,903 

Provisional price (gain) loss

   (18,230  20,839   (9,349

Provision for closed operations and environmental matters

   7,575   8,793   17,964 

Stock-based compensation

   6,598   6,012   6,081 

Unrealized loss on investments

   243   5,632   4,295 

Adjustments of inventory to net realizable value

   20,819   2,646   6,524 

Monetization of zinc and lead hedges

   (4,447  16,664    

Other

   (1,744  (986  (584

Adjusted EBITDA(8)

   212,553   217,492   278,780 

Capital expenditures at operating mines

   (223,607  (147,651  (108,855

Adjusted EBITDA less capital expenditures

  $(11,054 $69,841  $169,925 

 

11(8)

Adjusted EBITDA is a measure used by management to evaluate the Company’s operating performance but should not be considered an alternative to net (loss) income or cash provided by operating activities as that term isthose terms are defined by GAAP.GAAP and does not necessarily indicate whether cash flows will be sufficient to fund cash needs. In addition, the Company may use it when formulating performance goals and targets under its incentive program.

 

A-2     www.hecla-mining.comLOGO


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HECLA MINING COMPANY

6500 N. MINERAL DRIVE

SUITE 200

COEUR D’ALENE, ID 83815

 

    LOGO2024 Proxy Statement | A-3

 

VOTE BY INTERNET

Before The Meeting - Go to www.proxyvote.com or scan the QR Barcode above

Use the Internet to transmit your voting instructions and for electronic delivery of information. Vote by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on May 25, 2022 for shares held directly and by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on May 24, 2022 for shares held in a Plan. Have your proxy card in hand when you access the web site and follow the instructions to obtain your records and to create an electronic voting instruction form.

During The Meeting - Go to www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/HL2022

You may attend the meeting via the Internet and vote during the meeting. Have the information that is printed in the box marked by the arrow available and follow the instructions.

VOTE BY PHONE - 1-800-690-6903

Use any touch-tone telephone to transmit your voting instructions. Vote by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on May 25, 2022 for shares held directly and by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on May 24, 2022 for shares held in a Plan. 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 it in the postage-paid envelope we have provided or return it to Vote Processing, c/o Broadridge, 51 Mercedes Way, Edgewood, NY 11717.

Reconciliation of Loss Applicable to Common Stockholders to Adjusted Net Loss (GAAP)

Adjusted net loss and adjusted net (loss) per share, are indicators of our performance. They exclude certain impacts which are of a nature which we believe are not reflective of our underlying performance. Management believes that adjusted net loss per common share provides investors with the ability to better evaluate our underlying operating performance.

The following table reconciles adjusted net loss:

in thousands

  Year Ended
December 31,
2023
 

Net loss applicable to common shareholders (GAAP)

  $(84,769

Adjusted for items below:

     

Fair value adjustments, net

   (2,925

Provisional pricing gains

   (18,230

Environmental accruals

   2,952 

Foreign exchange loss

   3,810 

Ramp-up and suspension costs

   76,252 

Loss on disposition of properties, plants, equipment, and mineral interests

   849 

Adjustments of inventory to net realizable value

   20,819 

Monetization of zinc and lead hedges

   (4,447

Adjusted net loss

   (5,689

Weighted average shares – basic

   605,668 

Adjusted net loss per common stock (in cents)

   (0.01

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HECLA MINING COMPANY 6500 N. MINERAL DRIVE SUITE 200 COEUR D’ALENE, ID 83815-9408 VOTE Before BY The INTERNET Meeting - Go to www.proxyvote.com or scan the QR Barcode above Use the Internet to transmit your voting instructions and for electronic delivery of information. Vote by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on May 16, 2024 for shares held directly and by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on May 14, 2024 for shares held in a Plan. Have your proxy card in hand when you access the web site and follow the instructions to obtain your records and to create an electronic voting instruction form. During The Meeting - Go to www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/HL2024 You may attend the meeting via the Internet and vote during the meeting. Have the information that is printed in the box marked by the arrow available and follow the instructions. VOTE BY PHONE - 1-800-690-6903 Use any touch-tone telephone to transmit your voting instructions. Vote by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on May 16, 2024 for shares held directly and by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on May 14, 2024 for shares held in a Plan. 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 it in the postage-paid envelope we have provided or return it to Vote Processing, c/o Broadridge, 51 Mercedes Way, Edgewood, NY 11717. TO VOTE, MARK BLOCKS BELOW IN BLUE OR BLACK INK AS FOLLOWS:

D78874-P68937 V41168-P05705 KEEP THIS PORTION FOR YOUR RECORDS

— — — — — — — — — — — — —  — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —  — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —  — — — — — — — —

DETACH AND RETURN THIS PORTION ONLY

THIS PROXY CARD IS VALID ONLY WHEN SIGNED AND DATED. DETACH AND RETURN THIS PORTION ONLY HECLA MINING COMPANY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE “FOR” THE ELECTION OF THE NOMINEES FOR DIRECTOR LISTED IN ITEM 1 AND “FOR” PROPOSALS 2 AND 3. 1. ELECTION OF CLASS II DIRECTORS Nominees: For Against Abstain 1a. Stephen F. Ralbovsky 1b. Catherine J. Boggs 1c. Mark P. Board 2. Proposal to ratify and approve the selection of BDO USA, P.C., as our independent registered public accounting firm for the calendar year ending December 31, 2024. 3. Advisory resolution to approve named executive officer compensation. 4. In their discretion, on all other business that may properly come before the meeting or any adjournment or adjournments thereof. This Proxy will be voted as specified. If no specification is made, this Proxy will be voted “FOR” the election of the three nominees for Director and “FOR” the approval of Proposals 2 and 3. This proxy also delegates discretionary authority to vote with respect to any other business which may properly come before the meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof. IF YOU HAVE NOT VOTED VIA THE INTERNET OR TELEPHONE PLEASE MARK, SIGN, DATE, AND PROMPTLY RETURN THE PROXY CARD USING THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE. NOTE: The Proxy must be signed exactly as your name or names appear on this card. Executors, administrators, trustees, partners, etc., should give full title as such. If the signer is a corporation, please sign full corporate name by duly authorized officer(s), who should specify the title(s) of such officer(s). For Against Abstain Signature [PLEASE SIGN WITHIN BOX] Date Signature (Joint Owners) Date


LOGO

HECLA MINING COMPANY

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE “FOR” THE ELECTION OF THE NOMINEES FOR DIRECTOR LISTED IN ITEM 1 AND “FOR” PROPOSALS 2 AND 3.

1.  ELECTION OF CLASS III DIRECTORS

Nominees:

ForAgainstAbstain

1a.   Charles B. Stanley

1b.  Alice Wong

ForAgainstAbstain

2.  Ratify the appointment of BDO USA, LLP, as our independent registered public accounting firm for 2022.

3.  Approve, on an advisory basis, named executive officer compensation.

4.  In the Proxies’ discretion on all other business that may properly come before the meeting or any adjournments or postponements thereof.

This Proxy will be voted as specified. If no specification is made, this Proxy will be voted “FOR” the election of the two nominees for Director and “FOR” the approval of Proposals 2 and 3. This Proxy also delegates discretionary authority to vote with respect to any other business which may properly come before the meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof.

IF YOU HAVE NOT VOTED VIA THE INTERNET OR TELEPHONE PLEASE MARK, SIGN, DATE, AND PROMPTLY RETURN THE PROXY CARD USING THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE.

NOTE: The Proxy must be signed exactly as your name or names appear on this card. Executors, administrators, trustees, partners, etc., should give full title as such. If the signer is a corporation, please sign full corporate name by duly authorized officer(s), who should specify the title(s) of such officer(s).

Signature [PLEASE SIGN WITHIN BOX]Date      Signature (Joint Owners)Date      


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. V41169-P05705 HECLA MINING COMPANY ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS May 17, 2024 PROXY SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE “FOR” THE ELECTION OF THE NOMINEES FOR CLASS II DIRECTOR LISTED IN ITEM 1 AND “FOR” PROPOSALS 2 AND 3 The undersigned, revoking any previous proxies, hereby appoints PHILLIPS S. BAKER, JR. and MICHAEL B. WHITE, and each of them, proxies of the undersigned, with full power of substitution, to attend the Company’s Annual Meeting of Shareholders on May 17, 2024, and any adjournments or postponements thereof, and there to vote the undersigned’s shares of Common Stock of the Company on the following matters as described in the Board of Directors Proxy Statement for such meeting, a copy of which has been received by the undersigned. You may attend the meeting in person or via the Internet and vote electronically during the meeting. Have the information that is printed on the box marked by the arrow available and follow the instructions. Shares represented by this Proxy will be voted as directed by the shareholder. If no such directions are indicated, the Proxies will have authority to vote “FOR” each of the nominees for Class II director, “FOR” Proposals 2 and 3. In their discretion, the Proxies are authorized to vote upon such other business as may properly come before the meeting. Continued and to be signed on reverse side

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D78875-P68937        

HECLA MINING COMPANY
ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
May 26, 2022
PROXY SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE “FOR” THE ELECTION OF THE NOMINEES FOR DIRECTOR LISTED IN ITEM 1 AND “FOR” PROPOSALS 2 AND 3

Phillips S. Baker, Jr. or Michael B. White or either of them, each with the power of substitution, are hereby authorized to represent and vote the shares of the undersigned, with all the powers which the undersigned would possess if personally present, at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders of Hecla Mining Company to be held in person at the Elks Lodge #331, 419 Cedar St., Wallace, Idaho, 83873 and virtually at www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/HL2022 on May 26, 2022, or at any postponement or adjournment thereof.

You may attend the meeting in person or via the Internet and vote electronically during the meeting. Have the information that is printed on the box marked by the arrow available and follow the instructions. Shares represented by this Proxy will be voted as directed by the shareholder. If no such directions are indicated, the Proxies will have authority to vote “FOR” each of the nominees for director and “FOR” Proposals 2 and 3.

In their discretion, the Proxies are authorized to vote upon such other business as may properly come before the meeting.

Continued and to be signed on reverse side