UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, DC 90549

 

SCHEDULE 14A

 

(RULE 14a-101)

INFORMATION REQUIRED IN PROXY STATEMENT

SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION

 

Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the

Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 

Filed by the Registrant[X]
Filed by a Party other than the Registrant[  ]

Check the appropriate box:
 

[  ]X]Preliminary Proxy Statement
[  ]Confidential, For Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by Rule 14a–6(e)(2))
[X]  ]Definitive Proxy Statement
[  ]Definitive Additional Materials
[  ]Soliciting Material under Rule 14a-12

 

ADVAXIS, INC.Advaxis, Inc.

(Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)

 

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

 

Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box):

 

[X]No fee required.
[  ]Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(1) and 0-11.
  
(1)Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies:
  
  
(2)Aggregate number of securities to which transactionstransaction applies:
  
  
(3)Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (set forth the amount on which the filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined):
  
  
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(5)Total fee paid:
  
  
 
[  ]Fee paid previously with preliminary materials:
  
  
[  ]Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange Act Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee was paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration statement number, or the Form or Schedule and the date of its filing.
  
(1)Amount previously paid:
  
  
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(4)Date Filed:
  
  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Advaxis, Inc.
305 College Road East9 Deer Park Drive, Suite K-1
Princeton, New Jersey 08540Monmouth Junction, NJ 08852

 

NOTICE OF 20192021 ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

 

Notice is hereby given that the 20192021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Advaxis, Inc. will be held at the offices of Goodwin Procter LLP, The New York Times Building, 620 Eighth Avenue, New York, New York 10018, on February 21, 2019,June 3, 2021, at 10:00 a.m., Eastern Time to consider and actwill be held for the purpose of considering and voting upon the following:following proposals:

 

1.To elect six members to our Board of Directors to hold office until the next annual meeting of stockholders and until their respective successors have been duly elected and qualified, subject to their earlier resignation or removal.
  
2.To approve an amendment to our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (as amended to date, the “Charter”) to increase the total number of authorized shares of common stock, $0.001 par value per share from 95,000,000170,000,000 shares to 170,000,000300,000,000 shares.
  
3.To approve an amendment to our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporationthe Charter to effect a reverse stock split of our common stock at a ratio determined by the Board of Directors within a specified range of one-for-five to one-for-fifteen, without reducing the authorized number of shares of our common stock, to be effected in the sole discretion of the Board of Directors at any time within one year of the date of the 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders without further approval or authorization of our stockholders.
  
4.To approve an advisory (non-binding) resolution regardingamendment to our 2015 Incentive Plan (the “2015 Incentive Plan”) to increase the compensation of our named executive officers.existing per-participant annual award limitations included therein.
  
5.To considerratify and act upon an advisory (non-binding) vote onapprove the frequency atprior amendment to the Company’s 2015 Incentive Plan, which we should include an advisory vote regardingwas adopted following the compensation2020 Annual Meeting of our named executive officers in future Proxy StatementsStockholders, to increase the total number of shares of common stock authorized for stockholder consideration.issuance thereunder from 877,744 shares to 6,000,000 shares.
  
6.To ratify the selectionappointment of Marcum LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending October 31, 2019,2021, which we refer to as fiscal 2019.
7.Vote on one (1) stockholder proposal contained in the Proxy Statement accompanying this notice, if properly presented by the stockholder proponents at the meeting.
8.To transact such other business as may properly come before the Annual Meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof.2021.

 

The foregoing items of business are more fully described in the Proxy Statement accompanying this Notice. Our Proxy Statement, Form 10-K/A and annual report to stockholders for the fiscal year ended October 31, 20182020 can also be viewed online by following the instructions listed on our proxy card.

 

Instructions on howDue to vote your shares viaconcerns relating to the Internet are contained oncoronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, and to support the “Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials,” which is expected to be mailed on or about January 15, 2019. Instructions on how to obtain a paper copyhealth and well-being of our Proxy Statementemployees and annual report to stockholders forshareholders, the year ended October 31, 2018 are listed on the “Important Notice Regarding the Availability2021 Annual Meeting of Proxy Materials.” These materials can also be viewed online by following the instructions listed on the “Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials.”

If you choose to receive a paper copy of our Proxy Statement and annual report, you may vote your shares by completing and returning the proxy card thatStockholders will be enclosed.virtual and will be held entirely online via live webcast at www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/adxs2021. There will not be an option to attend the meeting in person.

 

Holders of record of the Company’s common stock at the close of business on December 26, 2018April 15, 2021 are entitled to receive notice of, and to vote at, the Annual Meeting. The date of mailing of this Notice of our 20192021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and the accompanying Proxy Statement and materials is expected to be on or about January 15, 2019.April   . 2021.

Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials

for our Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on JUNE 3, 2021.

 

All stockholders are cordially invited to attend the Annual Meeting. Regardless of whether you plan to attend the meeting virtually, we hope you will vote as soon as possible by following the instructions on your proxy card.

 

 By Order of the Board of Directors,
  
 /s/Kenneth A. Berlin
 

Kenneth A. Berlin

 

President and Chief Executive Officer,

Interim Chief Financial Officer

 

April   , 2021

Princeton, New Jersey

 

IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING THE AVAILABILITY OF PROXY MATERIALS
FOR THE ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS TO BE HELD ON FEBRUARY 21, 2019.

THE PROXY STATEMENT AND ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K FOR
THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED OCTOBER 31, 2018 ARE AVAILABLE AT HTTPS://WWW.PROXYVOTE.COM

 

 

WHETHER OR NOT YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THE ANNUAL MEETING AND IN
ORDER TO ASSURE THAT YOUR SHARES ARE REPRESENTED AT THE ANNUAL
MEETING, PLEASE SIGN AND RETURN THE ENCLOSED PROXY CARD
AS PROMPTLY AS POSSIBLE IN THE ENCLOSED POSTAGE-PREPAID ENVELOPE.

ADVAXIS, INC.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

Page
INFORMATION ABOUT THE ANNUAL MEETINGQUESTIONS AND ANSWERS2
PROPOSAL NO. 1THE DIRECTOR ELECTION OF DIRECTORSPROPOSAL6
PROPOSAL NO. 2 APPROVAL OF AN AMENDMENT TO THE COMPANY’S AMENDED AND RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION TO INCREASE THE TOTAL NUMBER OF AUTHORIZED SHARES OF COMMON STOCK7
PROPOSAL NO. 3 APPROVAL OF AN AMENDMENT TO THE COMPANY’S AMENDED AND RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION TO GRANT THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AUTHORITY TO EFFECT A REVERSE STOCK SPLITAUTHORIZED SHARES PROPOSAL8
PROPOSAL NO. 4 ADVISORY VOTE ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION14
PROPOSAL NO. 5 ADVISORY VOTE ON FREQUENCY OF EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION ADVISORY VOTE15
PROPOSAL NO. 6 RATIFY THE APPOINTMENT OF MARCUM LLP16
PROPOSAL NO. 7 STOCKHOLDERTHE STOCK SPLIT PROPOSAL19
THE ANNUAL AWARD LIMIT PROPOSAL25
OWNERSHIP OF SECURITIESEXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICER COMPENSATION2632
THE PLAN RATIFICATION PROPOSAL37
COMPENSATION OF OFFICERS AND DIRECTORSTHE AUDITOR RATIFICATION PROPOSAL30
OTHER MATTERS3739

 

 

PRELIMINARY PROXY STATEMENT

SUBJECT TO COMPLETION
DATED APRIL 2, 2021

 

Advaxis, Inc.
305 College Road East9 Deer Park Drive, Suite K-1
Princeton, New Jersey 08540Monmouth Junction, NJ 08852

 

PROXY STATEMENT
ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
TO BE HELD ON FEBRUARY 21, 2019

ThisOur Board is providing these proxy statement is being made available via Internet access, beginning on or about January 11, 2019,materials to the owners of shares of common stock of Advaxis, Inc. (the “Company,Company,“our,our,“we,we,” or “Advaxis”Advaxis) as of December 26, 2018,April 15, 2021, in connection with the solicitation of proxies by our Board of Directors (the “Board”Board) for our 20192021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “Annual Meeting”Annual Meeting). On or about January 15, 2019,April    , 2021, we expectintend to send an “Important Notice Regardingmail this proxy statement and the Availability of Proxy Materials” to our stockholders. If you received this notice by mail in prior years, you will not automatically receive by mail our Proxy Statement andaccompanying proxy card, together with the Company’s annual report to stockholders for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2018. If you would like2020, to receive a printed copy of our Proxy Statement, annual reporteach stockholder entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting.

Our Form 10-K/A for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2020, as well as this proxy statement, will be available through the Securities and proxy card, please follow the instructions for requesting such materials in the notice. Upon request, we will promptly mail you paper copies of such materials free of charge.Exchange Commission’s EDGAR system at http://www.sec.gov.

 

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INFORMATION ABOUT THE ANNUAL MEETINGQUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

 

Why didam I receive an “Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials”?receiving these materials?

 

In accordance with SecuritiesWe sent this proxy statement and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) rules, instead of mailing a printed copy ofthe enclosed proxy card because the our Board is soliciting your proxy materials,to vote at the Annual Meeting and at any adjournment or postponement thereof. The Annual Meeting will be held on June 3, 2021 at virtually via live webcast at www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/adxs2021. You are invited to virtually attend the Annual Meeting and we may send an “Important Notice Regardingrequest that you vote on the Availability of Proxy Materials”proposals described in this proxy statement. However, you do not need to stockholders. All stockholders will havevirtually attend the abilityAnnual Meeting to access the proxy materials on a website referred to in the notice or to request a printed set of these materials at no charge. You will not receive a printed copy of the proxy materials unless you specifically request one from us.vote your shares. Instead, the notice instructs you as to how you may accesssimply complete, sign and review all ofreturn the important information contained in theenclosed proxy materials via the Internet and submit your vote via the Internet.card, as discussed below.

 

When is the Annual Meeting?

 

The Annual Meeting will be held at 10:00 a.m., Eastern Time, on February 21, 2019.June 3, 2021.

 

Where will the Annual Meeting be held?

 

TheDue to concerns relating to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, and to support the health and well-being of our employees and shareholders, the 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders will be virtual and will be held entirely online via live webcast at www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/adxs2021. There will not be an option to attend the offices of Goodwin Procter LLP, The New York Times Building, 26th Floor, 620 Eighth Avenue, New York, New York 10018.meeting in person.

 

What items will be voted on at the Annual Meeting?

 

There are sevensix matters scheduled for a vote:

 

 1.To elect six members to our Board of Directors to hold office until the next annual meeting of stockholders and until their respective successors have been duly elected and qualified, subject to their earlier resignation or removal (“(the “Director Election Proposal No. 1”);.
   
 2.To approve an amendment to our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (the “Charter’) to increase the total number of authorized shares of common stock, $0.001 par value per share from 95,000,000170,000,000 shares to 170,000,000300,000,000 shares (“(the “Authorized Shares Proposal No. 2”);.
   
 3.To approve an amendment to our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporationthe Charter to effect a reverse stock split of our common stock at a ratio determined by the Board of Directors within a specified range of one-to-five to one-for-fifteen, without reducing the authorized number of shares of our common stock, to be effected in the sole discretion of the Board of Directors at any time within one year of the date of the 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders without further approval or authorization of our stockholders (“(the “Stock Split Proposal No. 3”);.
   
 4.

To approve an advisory (non-binding) resolution regardingamendment to our 2015 Incentive Plan (the “2015 Incentive Plan”) to increase to increase the compensation of our names executive officers (“existing per-participant annual award limitations included therein (the “Annual Award Limit Proposal No. 4”);

To consider and act upon an advisory (non-binding) vote on the frequency at which we should include an advisory vote regarding the compensation of our named executive officers in future Proxy Statements for stockholder consideration (“Proposal No. 5”);.
   
 5.

To ratify and approve the prior amendment to the Company’s 2015 Incentive Plan, which was adopted following the 2020 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “2020 Annual Meeting”), to increase the total number of shares of common stock authorized for issuance thereunder from 877,744 shares to 6,000,000 shares (the “Plan Ratification Proposal”).

6.To ratify the selectionappointment of Marcum LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending October 31, 2019,2021, which we refer to as fiscal 2019 (“2021 (the “Auditor Ratification Proposal No. 6”); and

Vote on one (1) stockholder proposal contained in the Proxy Statement accompanying this notice, if properly presented by the stockholder proponents at the meeting (“Proposal No. 7”).

 

As of the date of this Proxy Statement, we are not aware of any other matters that will be presented for consideration at the Annual Meeting.

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What are the Board of Directors’ recommendations?

 

Our Board recommends that you vote:

 

 “FOR” the election of each of the sixdirector nominees named herein to serve onin the Board;Director Election Proposal;
   
 “FOR” the approval of an amendment to our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation to increase our authorized shares of common stock by 75,000,000 shares of common stock;Authorized Shares Proposal;
   
 “FOR” the approval of an amendment to our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation and grant discretionary authority to the Board of Directors to effect a reverse stock split;Stock Split Proposal;
   
 “FOR” the advisory vote on the compensation of the named Executive Officers as described in this proxy statement;Annual Award Limit Proposal;
   
 “FOR” a three-year frequency for inclusion of an advisory vote regarding the compensation of named executive officers in future proxy statements for stock holder consideration;Plan Ratification Proposal; and
   
  “FOR” “FOR” the ratification of the appointment of Marcum LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for fiscal 2019; and
The Board, after careful consideration, is not making a recommendation either in favor of or opposed to the stockholder proposal regarding the institution of a director election majority vote standard.Auditor Ratification Proposal

INFORMATION ABOUT THE VOTING

 

Who is entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting?

 

Only stockholders of record at the close of business on December 26,2018,April 15, 2021, which we refer to as the Record Date, are entitled to receive notice of the Annual Meeting and to vote the shares that they held on that date at the Annual Meeting, or any adjournment or postponement thereof. As of the close of business on the Record Date, we had              69,619,886 shares of common stock outstanding. Each share of common stock entitles its holder to one vote on each matter presented for a vote at the Annual Meeting.

 

 Stockholders of Record: Record: Shares Registered in Your Name.Name. If, on the Record Date, your shares were registered directly in your name with our transfer agent, Continental Stock Transfer and Trust Company, then you are a stockholder of record. As a stockholder of record, you may vote in person at the Annual Meeting by following the instructions located at www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/adxs2021 or vote by proxy. Whether or not you plan to attend the Annual Meeting, we urge you to fill out and return the enclosed proxy card, to ensure your vote is counted.
   
 Beneficial Owner: Owner: Shares Registered in the Name of a Broker, Bank, Custodian or Other Nominee.Nominee. If on the Record Date your shares were held in an account at a brokerage firm, bank, custodian or other nominee, then you are the beneficial owner of shares held in “street name” and these proxy materials are being forwarded to you by that organization. The organization holding your account is considered the stockholder of record for purposes of voting at the Annual Meeting. As a beneficial owner, you have the right to direct your broker, bank, custodian or other nominee on how to vote the shares in your account. You are also invited to attend the Annual Meeting. However, because you are not the stockholder of record, you may not vote your shares in person at the Annual Meeting unless you request and obtain a valid proxy from your broker, bank, custodian or other nominee.

What constitutes a quorum at the Annual Meeting?

 

In accordance with Delaware law (the law under which we are incorporated) and our Second Amended and Restated Bylaws,By-Laws (the “By-Laws”), the presence at the Annual Meeting, by proxy or in person, of the holders of at least one-third of the shares of our common stock outstanding on the record date constitutes a quorum, thereby permitting the stockholders to conduct business at the Annual Meeting. Abstentions, votes withheld, and broker non-votes will be included in the calculation of the number of shares considered present at the Annual Meeting for purposes of determining the existence of a quorum.

 

If a quorum is not present at the Annual Meeting, a majority in voting interest of the stockholders present in person andor represented by proxy may adjourn the meeting to another date. If an adjournment is for more than 30 days or a new record date is fixed for the adjourned meeting by our Board, of Directors, we will provide notice of the adjourned meeting to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at the adjourned meeting. At any adjourned meeting at which a quorum is present, any business may be transacted that might have been transacted at the originally called meeting.

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What is a proxy?

 

A proxy is a person you appoint to vote your shares of our common stock on your behalf. If you are unable to attend the Annual Meeting, our Board of Directors is seeking your appointment of a proxy so that your shares of our common stock may be voted. If you vote by proxy, you will be designating Kenneth A. Berlin or Molly Henderson,(our President and Chief Executive Officer and Interim Chief Financial Officer) as your proxies.proxy. Mr. Berlin or Ms. Henderson may act on your behalf and havehas the authority to appoint a substitute to act as your proxy.

How do I vote?

 

Whether you hold shares directly as the stockholder of record or indirectly as the beneficial owner of shares held for you by a broker or other nominee (i.e., in “street name”), you may direct your vote without attending the Annual Meeting. You may vote by granting a proxy or, for shares you hold in street name, by submitting voting instructions to your broker or nominee. In most instances, you will be able to do this by internet, telephone or by mail. Please refer to the summary instructions below and those included on your proxy card or, for shares you hold in street name, the voting instruction card provided by your broker or nominee.

 

 By Internet— If you have Internet access, you may authorize your proxy from any location in the world as directed in our “Important Notice Regardingon the Availability of Proxy Materials.”proxy card, or if applicable, the voting instruction card sent to you by your broker or nominee.
   
 By Telephone— If you are calling from the United States or Canada, you may authorize your proxy by following the “By Telephone” instructions on the proxy card or, if applicable, the telephone voting instructions that may be described on the voting instruction card sent to you by your broker or nominee.
   
 By Mail— You may authorize your proxy by signing your proxy card and mailing it in the enclosed, postage-prepaid and addressed envelope. For shares you hold in street name, you may sign the voting instruction card included by your broker or nominee and mail it in the envelope provided.

How many votes do I have?

 

On each matter to be voted upon, you have one vote for each share of common stock you own as of the Record Date.

 

Can I change my vote after I return my proxy card?

 

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

 

 You may submit another properly completed proxy bearing a later date;
   
 You may send a written notice that you are revoking your proxy to Advaxis, Inc. at 305 College Road East, Princeton, New Jersey 08540,9 Deer Park Drive, Suite K-1, Monmouth Junction, NJ 08852, Attention: Molly Henderson,Igor Gitelman, VP of Finance and Chief FinancialAccounting Officer and Corporate Secretary (so long as we receive such notice no later than the close of business on the day before the Annual Meeting); or
   
 You may attend the Annual Meeting and notifyproperly vote using the election officialsinstructions posted at the Annual Meeting that you wish to revoke your proxy and vote in person.www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/adxs2021. Simply attending the Annual Meeting will not, by itself, revoke your proxy.

 

If your shares are held by your broker, bank, custodian or other nominee, you should follow the instructions provided by such broker, bank, custodian or other nominee.nominee for revoking your proxy.

 

What if I sign and return my proxy but do not provide voting instructions?

 

Proxy cards or voting instruction cards that are signed, dated and returned but do not contain voting instructions will be voted:

 

 “FOR” the election of each of the sixdirector nominees named herein to serve onin the Board of Directors;Director Election Proposal;

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 “FOR” the approval of an amendment to our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation to increase our authorized shares of common stock by 75,000,000 shares of common stock;
“FOR” the approval of an amendment to our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation and grant discretionary authority to the Board of Directors to effect a reverse stock split;
“FOR” an advisory vote on the compensation of the named Executive Officers as described in this Proxy Statement;
“FOR” a three-year frequency for inclusion of an advisory vote regarding the compensation of named executive officers in future proxy statements for stock holder consideration;
“FOR” the ratification of the appointment of Marcum LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for fiscal 2019; andAuthorized Shares Proposal;
   
 FOR” ABSTAINon the stockholder proposal regarding the institution of a director election majority vote standard, if properly presented at the Annual Meeting.Stock Split Proposal;

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 “FOR” the Annual Award Limit Proposal;
“FOR” the Plan Ratification Proposal; and
“FOR” the Auditor Ratification Proposal.

 

How are votes counted?

 

Before the Annual Meeting, our Board will appoint one or more inspectors of election for the meeting. The inspector(s) will determine the number of shares represented at the meeting, the existence of a quorum and the validity and effect of proxies. The inspector(s) will also receive, count, and tabulate ballots andthe votes and determine the results of the voting on each matter that comes before the Annual Meeting.

Broker non-votes occur when shares are held indirectly through a broker, bank or other intermediary on behalf of a beneficial owner (referred to as held in “street name”) and the broker submits a proxy but does not vote for a matter because the broker has not received voting instructions from the beneficial owner and (i) the broker does not have discretionary voting authority on the matter or (ii) the broker chooses not to vote on a matter for which it has discretionary voting authority. Under the rules of theapplicable New York Stock Exchange, Nasdaq Stock Exchange which govern voting matters at the Annual Meeting,(“Nasdaq”) and SEC rules, brokers are permitted to exercise discretionary voting authority only on “routine” matters when voting instructions have not been timely received from a beneficial owner.

Under Nasdaqthese applicable rules, the following mattersAuthorized Shares Proposal, Stock Split Proposal and the Auditor Ratification Proposal are considered to be “routine” matters: (i) the approval of the amendment to the Advaxis, Inc. Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation for the purpose of increasing the authorized number of shares; (ii) the approval of the amendment to the Advaxis, Inc. Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation for the purpose of granting the Board of Directors authority to effect a reverse stock split and (iii) the ratification of Marcum LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending October 31, 2018.matters. Brokers that hold your shares therefore have discretionary authority to vote your shares without receiving instructions from you on such matters.these matters, but not with respect to the other matters expected to be voted on at the Annual Meeting.

 

How many votes are needed to approve each proposal?

For the election of directors (Proposal No. 1), the six nominees receiving the most “FOR” votes (among votes properly cast in person or by proxy) will be elected. Only votes “FOR” or votes withheld with respect to any or all of the nominees will affect the outcome. Abstentions and broker non-votes will have no effect on the outcome of the election of directors.
For the approval of the amendment to the Advaxis, Inc. Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation for the purpose of increasing the authorized number of shares (Proposal No. 2), the approval of the amendment to the Advaxis, Inc. Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation for the purpose of granting the Board of Directors authority to effect a reverse stock split (Proposal No. 3), the proposal must receive a majority of the total number of shares of our common stock outstanding on the record date. Abstentions and broker non-votes with respect to these proposals will be counted for purposes of establishing a quorum and, if a quorum is present, broker non-votes shall be counted as votes for these proposals, while abstentions will have the same practical effect as a voteagainstthese proposals.
Director Election Proposal: To be approved,elected under the Director Election Proposal, No. 4 (the “say-on-pay” advisory proposal), Proposal No. 5 (frequency of the “say-on-pay” proposal), Proposal No. 6 (the ratification of the appointment of Marcum LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for fiscal 2019) and Proposal 7 (the proposed stockholder proposal on majority voting)each director must receive “FOR” votes from the holders of a majority of the shares present, in person orvotes cast by proxy, and entitled to vote. Abstentions and broker non-votesstockholders with respect to these proposalsthat director’s election. A director who fails to receive a majority of “FOR” votes will be countedrequired to tender his or her resignation to our Board. Our Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee will then assess whether there is a significant reason for purposes of establishingsuch director to remain on our Board and will make a quorum.recommendation to our Board regarding that director’s resignation. If a quorum is present, broker non-votes will not affect the outcome of the votesvote on Proposals 4, 5 and 7 andthe Director Election Proposal, while abstentions will be counted as votes for Proposal No. 6. Abstentions shall have the same practical effect as a voteagainst these proposals “AGAINST” the applicable nominee under the Director Election Proposal.
.Authorized Shares Proposal: To be approved, the Authorized Shares Proposal must receive “FOR” votes from a majority of the shares entitled to vote thereon. Abstentions will have the same practical effect as a vote “AGAINST” the Authorized Shares Proposal. Broker discretionary voting is permitted with respect to the Authorized Shares Proposal.
Stock Split Proposal: To be approved, the Stock Split Proposal must receive “FOR” votes from a majority of the shares entitled to vote thereon. Abstentions will have the same practical effect as a vote “AGAINST” the Stock Split Proposal. Broker discretionary voting is permitted with respect to the Stock Split Proposal.
Annual Award Limit Proposal: To be approved, Annual Award Limit Proposal must receive “FOR” votes from a majority of the shares present in person or represented by proxy at the Annual Meeting and entitled to vote on the subject matter. If a quorum is present, broker non-votes will not affect the outcome of the vote on the Annual Award Limit Proposal, while abstentions will have the same practical effect as a vote “AGAINST” the Annual Award Limit Proposal.
Plan Ratification Proposal: To be approved, the Plan Ratification Proposal must receive “FOR” votes from a majority of the shares present in person or represented by proxy at the Annual Meeting and entitled to vote on the subject matter. If a quorum is present, broker non-votes will not affect the outcome of the vote on the Plan Ratification Proposal, while abstentions will have the same practical effect as a vote “AGAINST” the Plan Ratification Proposal.

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Auditor Ratification Proposal: To be approved, the Auditor Ratification Proposal must receive “FOR” votes from a majority of the shares present in person or represented by proxy at the Annual Meeting and entitled to vote on the subject matter. Abstentions will have the same practical effect as a vote “AGAINST” the Auditor Ratification Proposal. Broker discretionary voting is permitted with respect to the Auditor Ratification Proposal.

How can I find out the results of the voting at the Annual Meeting?

 

We will announce preliminary voting results at the Annual Meeting. We will also disclose voting results on a Form 8-K filed with the SEC, within four business days after the Annual Meeting.

 

How do I obtain a list of the Company’s stockholders?

 

A list of our stockholders as of the Record Date will be made available for virtual inspection at our corporate headquarters located at 305 College Road East, Princeton, New Jersey 08540upon request during normal business hours during the 10-day period prior to the Annual Meeting. To request a list of our stockholders as of the Record Date, please contact Igor Gitelman, our VP of Finance and Chief Accounting Officer, by telephone: 917-940-5651.

Who will solicit proxies on behalf of the Board?

Our Board is asking you to give your proxy to Kenneth A. Berlin, President and Chief Executive Officer and Interim Chief Financial Officer. Giving your proxy to Mr. Berlin means that you authorize Mr. Berlin, or his duly appointed substitute, to vote your shares at the Annual Meeting in accordance with your instructions. All valid proxies received prior to the Annual Meeting will be voted. All shares represented by a proxy will be voted, and where a stockholder specifies by means of the proxy a choice with respect to any matter to be acted upon, the shares will be voted in accordance with the specification so made. If no choice is indicated on the proxy, then the shares will be voted in accordance with the Board’s recommendations.

Proxies may be solicited on behalf of the Board, without additional compensation, by the Company’s directors and certain executive officers or employees of the Company. Additionally, the Company has retained Morrow Sodali LLC, a proxy solicitation firm, to assist in the solicitation of proxies. Morrow Sodali LLC may solicit proxies on the Board’s behalf.

 

Who is paying for this proxy solicitation?

 

We will pay the entire cost of preparing, assembling, printing, mailing, and distributing these proxy materials and soliciting votes. If you choose to vote over the internet, you are responsible for internet access charges you may incur. If you choose to vote by telephone, you are responsible for telephone charges you may incur. In addition to the mailing of these proxy materials, the solicitation of proxies or votes may be made in person, by telephone or by electronic communication by ourproxies. Our directors, officers and other employees, who will not receive anywithout additional compensation, for such solicitation activities. Proxies also may be solicitedsolicit proxies personally or in writing, by employees and our directors by mail, telephone, facsimile, e-mail, or otherwise. We are required to request that any brokers, trustees and other nominees who hold shares in person.

Additional Informationtheir names furnish our proxy materials to the beneficial owners of the shares, and we must reimburse these brokers, trustees and other nominees for the expenses of doing so in accordance with statutory fee schedules. We will pay Morrow Sodali LLC a fee not to exceed $8,000 plus costs and expenses.

 

Whom should I contact if I have any questions?

 

If you have any questions about the Annual Meeting, these proxy materials or your ownership of our common stock, please contact Molly Henderson,Igor Gitelman, our VP of Finance and Chief FinancialAccounting Officer, and Corporate Secretary, by mail at Advaxis, Inc., 305 College Road East, Princeton, New Jersey 08540,9 Deer Park Drive, Suite K-1, Monmouth Junction, NJ 08852, or by telephone: (609) 250-7510 or by fax: (609) 452-9818.917-940-5651.

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PROPOSAL NO. 1
DIRECTOR ELECTION OF DIRECTORSPROPOSAL

Election of Directors

 

Our By-lawsBy-Laws provide that the number of directors is to be no less than one and no more than nine and shall be fixed by action of the directors. Currently, our Board of Directors consists of six members. Each director will hold office until the next annual meeting of stockholders and until his successor is duly elected and qualified, subject to his earlier resignation or removal. For information regarding the independence of our directors, see “Corporate Governance Matters — Director Independence” elsewhere in this Proxy Statement.

 

Unless otherwise instructed, the persons named in the proxy will vote to elect the six nominees named below as directors. Although the Board does not contemplate that any of the nominees will be unavailable to serve as a director, should any unexpected vacancies occur, the enclosed proxy will be voted for such substituted nominees, if any, as may be designated by the Board. In no event will the proxy be voted for more than six directors.

 

Information forabout the Nominees for Director

 

The namesfollowing nominees have been recommended by our Board. Each of the nominees for election as directors at the Annual Meeting, eachis one of whom is an incumbent director, and certain information about them, including their ages as of is set forth below:our current directors.:

 

Name Age Position
Dr. David Sidransky 5860 Chairman of our Board of Directors
Dr. James P. Patton 6163 Vice Chairman of our Board of Directors
Roni A. Appel 5254 Director
Kenneth A. Berlin 5456 President and Chief Executive Officer, Interim Chief Financial Officer, Director
Richard J. Berman 7678 Director
Dr. Samir N. Khleif 5557 Director

 

Biographical informationCurrent Directors

Dr. David Sidransky. Dr. Sidransky currently serves as the Chairman of our Board of Directors and has served as a member of our Board of Directors since July 2013. He is a renowned oncologist and research scientist named and profiled by TIME magazine in 2001 as one of the top physicians and scientists in America, recognized for all nominated directorshis work with early detection of cancer. Since 1994, Dr. Sidransky has been the Director of the Head and current directorsNeck Cancer Research Division and Professor of Oncology, Otolaryngology, Genetics, and Pathology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. He has served as Chairman or Lead of the Board of Directors of Champions Oncology since October 2007 and was a director and Vice-Chairman of ImClone Systems until its merger with Eli Lilly Inc. He is providedthe Chairman of Tamir Biotechnology and Ayala and serves on the Board of Directors of Galmed and Orgenesis. He has served on scientific advisory boards of MedImmune, Roche, Amgen, and Veridex, LLC (a Johnson & Johnson diagnostic company), among others. Dr. Sidransky served as Director (2005-2008) of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR). He earned his B.S. from Brandeis University and his Medical Doctorate from Baylor College of Medicine. Dr. Sidransky’s experience in the Corporate Governance Matters section elsewhere in this Proxy Statement.life science companies, as well as his scientific knowledge, qualify him to service as our director and non-executive chairman.

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THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDSDr. James P. Patton. Dr. Patton currently serves as the Vice Chairman of our Board of Directors, has served as the Chairman of our Board and has been a member of our Board of Directors since February 2002. Furthermore, Dr. Patton was the Chairman of our Board of Directors from November 2004 until December 2005, as well as a period from July 2013 until May 2015, and was our Chief Executive Officer from February 2002 to November 2002. Since February 1999, Dr. Patton has been the Vice President of Millennium Oncology Management, Inc., which is a consulting company in the field of oncology services delivery. Dr. Patton was a trustee of Dundee Wealth US, a mutual fund family, from October 2006 through September 2014. He is a founder and has been chairman of VAL Health, LLC, a health care consultancy, from 2011 to the present. In addition, he was President of Comprehensive Oncology Care, LLC, a company that owned and operated a cancer treatment facility in Exton, Pennsylvania from 1999 until its sale in 2008. From February 1999 to September 2003, Dr. Patton also served as a consultant to LibertyView Equity Partners SBIC, LP, a venture capital fund based in Jersey City, New Jersey. From July 2000 to December 2002, Dr. Patton served as a director of Pinpoint Data Corp. From February 2000 to November 2000, Dr. Patton served as a director of Healthware Solutions. From June 2000 to June 2003, Dr. Patton served as a director of LifeStar Response. He earned his B.S. from the University of Michigan, his Medical Doctorate from Medical College of Pennsylvania, and his M.B.A. from Penn’s Wharton School. Dr. Patton was also a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Clinical Scholar. He has published papers regarding scientific research in human genetics, diagnostic test performance and medical economic analysis. Dr. Patton’s experience as a trustee and consultant to funds that invest in life science companies provide him with the perspective from which we benefit. Additionally, Dr. Patton’s medical experience and service as a principal and director of other life science companies make Dr. Patton particularly qualified to serve as our director and non-executive vice chairman.

Roni A. Appel. Mr. Appel has served as a member of our Board of Directors since November 2004. He was our President and Chief Executive Officer from January 1, 2006 until December 2006 and Secretary and Chief Financial Officer from November 2004 to September 2006. From December 15, 2006 to December 2007, Mr. Appel served as a consultant to us. Mr. Appel currently is a self-employed consultant and the Co-Founder and President of Spirify Pharma Inc. Previously, he served as Chief Executive Officer of Anima Biotech Inc., from 2008 through January 31, 2013. From 1999 to 2004, he was a partner and managing director of LV Equity Partners (f/k/a LibertyView Equity Partners). From 1998 until 1999, he was a director of business development at Americana Financial Services, Inc. From 1994 to 1996, he worked as an attorney. Mr. Appel holds an M.B.A from Columbia University (1998) and an LL.B. from Haifa University (1994). Mr. Appel’s longstanding service with us and his entrepreneurial investment career in early stage biotech businesses qualify him to serve as our director.

Kenneth Berlin. Mr. Berlin has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer and a member of our Board of Directors since April 2018. Mr. Berlin has served as our Interim Chief Financial Officer since September 2020. Prior to joining Advaxis, Mr. Berlin served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Rosetta Genomics from November 2009 until April 2018. Prior to Rosetta Genomics, Mr. Berlin was Worldwide General Manager at cellular and molecular cancer diagnostics developer Veridex, LLC, a Johnson & Johnson company. At Veridex he grew the organization to over 100 employees, launched three cancer diagnostic products, led the acquisition of its cellular diagnostics partner, and delivered significant growth in sales as Veridex transitioned from an R&D entity to a commercial provider of oncology diagnostic products and services. Mr. Berlin joined Johnson & Johnson in 1994 and served as corporate counsel for six years. From 2001 until 2004 he served as Vice President, Licensing and New Business Development in the pharmaceuticals group, and from 2004 until 2007 served as Worldwide Vice President, Franchise Development, Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics. Mr. Berlin holds an A.B. degree from Princeton University and a J.D. from the University of California Los Angeles School of Law. Mr. Berlin’s experience in life science companies, as well as his business experience in general qualify him to service as our director.

Richard J. Berman. Mr. Berman has served as a member of our Board of Directors since September 1, 2005. Richard Berman’s business career spans over 35 years of venture capital, senior management and merger and acquisitions experience. In the past 5 years, Mr. Berman has served as a director and/or officer of over a dozen public and private companies. From 2006-2011, he was Chairman of National Investment Managers, a company with $12 billion in pension administration assets. Mr. Berman currently serves as a director of four public healthcare companies Cryoport Inc., Advaxis, Inc., BioVie, Inc. and BriaCell Therapeutics. Recently, he became a director of Comsovereign Holding Corp, a leader in the drone market. From 2002 to 2010, he was a director at Nexmed Inc. (now Apricus Biosciences, Inc.) where he also served as Chairman/CEO in 2008 and 2009. From 1998-2000, he was employed by Internet Commerce Corporation (now Easylink Services) as Chairman and CEO and served as director from 1998-2012. Previously, Mr. Berman worked at Goldman Sachs, was Senior Vice President of Bankers Trust Company, where he started the M&A and Leveraged Buyout Departments, created the largest battery company in the world in the 1980s by merging Prestolite, General Battery and Exide to form Exide Technologies (XIDE), helped to create what is now Soho (NYC) by developing five buildings, and advised on over $4 billion of M&A transactions (completed over 300 deals). He is a past Director of the Stern School of Business of NYU where he obtained his B.S. and M.B.A. He also has US and foreign law degrees from Boston College and The Hague Academy of International Law, respectively. Mr. Berman’s extensive knowledge of our industry, his role in the governance of publicly held companies and his directorships in other life science companies qualify him to serve as our director.

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Dr. Samir Khleif. Dr. Khleif has served as a member of our Board of Directors since October 2014. He currently serves as the Director of the State of Georgia Cancer Center, Georgia Regents University Cancer Center and the Cancer Service Line. Dr. Khleif was formerly Chief of the Cancer Vaccine Section at the NCI, and also served as a Special Assistant to the Commissioner of the FDA leading the Critical Path Initiative for oncology. Dr. Khleif is a Georgia Research Alliance Distinguished Cancer Scientist and Clinician and holds a professorship in Medicine, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Graduate Studies at Georgia Regents University. Dr. Khleif’s research program at Georgia Regents University Cancer Center focuses on understanding the mechanisms of cancer-induced immune suppression, and utilizing this knowledge for the development of novel immune therapeutics and vaccines against cancer. His research group designed and performed some of the first cancer vaccine clinical trials targeting specific genetic changes in cancer cells. He led many national efforts and committees on the development of biomarkers and integration of biomarkers in clinical trials, including the AACR-NCI-FDA Cancer Biomarker Collaborative and the ASCO Alternative Clinical Trial Design. Dr. Khleif is the author of many book chapters and scientific articles on tumor immunology and biomarkers process development, and he is the editor for two textbooks on cancer therapeutics, tumor immunology, and cancer vaccines. Dr. Khleif was inducted into the American Society for Clinical Investigation, received the National Cancer Institute’s Director Golden Star Award, the National Institutes of Health Award for Merit, the Commendation Medal of the US Public Health Service, and he was recently appointed to the Institute of Medicine National Cancer Policy Forum. Dr. Khleif’s distinguished career as well as his extensive expertise in vaccines and immunotherapies qualify him to serve as our director.

Director Independence

Each of our incumbent non-employee directors is independent in accordance with the definition set forth in the Nasdaq rules. Each nominated member of each of our Board committees is an independent director under the Nasdaq standards applicable to such committees. The Board considered the information included in transactions with related parties as outlined below along with other information the Board considered relevant, when considering the independence of each director.

Board Meetings and Committee Meetings; Attendance

All directors who served as directors at the time attended our 2020 Annual Meeting of Stockholders. Directors are expected, but not required, to attend the annual meeting of stockholders. We will encourage, but will not require, our directors to attend the Annual Meeting. Each director attended at least seventy-five percent (75%) of the aggregate of: (1) the total number of Board meetings; and (2) the total number of meetings of the committee(s) of which he was a member, if any. Our Board holds meetings at least quarterly. Our Board held 15 meetings during fiscal year 2020, 4 of which were regularly scheduled and 11 were special meetings.

Board Committees

Presently, the Board has the following standing committees: Audit Committee, Compensation Committee, Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and the Research and Development Committee. Each of the standing committees is comprised solely of independent directors.

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The table below describes the Board’s committee membership during fiscal 2020:

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee of our Board of Directors is currently composed of Mr. Berman (Chairman), Mr. Appel and Dr. Patton, all of whom satisfy the independence and other standards for Audit Committee members under the Nasdaq rules and the rules under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). The Audit Committee is responsible for recommending the engagement of auditors to the full Board, reviewing the results of the audit engagement with the independent registered public accounting firm, reviewing the quality and integrity of our financial statements in consultation with our independent accountants, and suggesting an appropriate course of action for any irregularities, reviewing the adequacy, scope, and results of the internal accounting controls and procedures, reviewing the degree of independence of the auditors, as well as the nature and scope of our relationship with our independent registered public accounting firm, and reviewing the auditors’ fees. For fiscal year 2020, Mr. Berman served as the Audit Committee’s financial expert as defined under Item 407 of Regulation S-K. The Audit Committee held six meetings during the most recent fiscal year.

The Audit Committee operates under a written Audit Committee Charter, which is available to stockholders on our website at http://www.advaxis.com/corporate-governance/governance-overview.

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Compensation Committee

The Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors currently consists of Mr. Berman, and Drs. Khleif and Sidransky (Chairman). The Compensation Committee determines the salaries, bonuses, and incentive and equity compensation of our officers subject to applicable employment agreements, provides recommendations for the salaries and incentive compensation of our other employees and consultants, and reviews and oversees our compensation programs and policies generally. For executives other than the Chief Executive Officer, the Compensation Committee receives and considers performance evaluations and compensation recommendations submitted to the Committee by the Chief Executive Officer. In the case of the Chief Executive Officer, the evaluation of his performance is conducted by the Compensation Committee, which determines any adjustments to his compensation as well as awards to be granted. The agenda for meetings of the Compensation Committee is usually determined by its Chairman, with the assistance of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer. The Compensation Committee conducts at least five regularly scheduled meetings each year, which are regularly attended by the Chief Executive Officer. The Compensation Committee engaged AON Consulting, a compensation consultant, in September 2020, to perform a compensation program review and market analysis, as well as provide recommendations regarding adjustments to executive officer base salaries, target bonus opportunities and long-term equity incentives. The Compensation Committee held six meetings during the 2020 fiscal year.

The Compensation Committee operates under a written Compensation Committee Charter, which is available to stockholders on our website at https://www.advaxis.com/corporate-governance/governance-overview.

Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee

The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee of our Board of Directors currently consists of Drs. Patton (Chairman), Appel and Sidransky. The functions of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee include identifying and recommending to the Board individuals qualified to serve as members of the Board and on the committees of the Board, advising the Board with respect to matters of board composition, procedures and committees, developing and recommending to the Board a set of corporate governance principles applicable to us and overseeing corporate governance matters generally including review of possible conflicts and transactions with persons affiliated with directors or members of management, and overseeing the annual evaluation of the Board and our management. The Nominating and Governance Committees held three meetings during the 2020 fiscal year.

The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee operates under a written Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee Charter, which is available to stockholders on our website at https://www.advaxis.com/corporate-governance/governance-overview.

Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee will consider director candidates recommended by eligible stockholders. Stockholders may recommend director nominees for consideration by the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee by writing to the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, Attention: Chairman, Advaxis, Inc., 9 Deer Park Drive, Suite K-1, Monmouth Junction, NJ 08852. Any recommendations for director made to the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee should include the nominee’s name and qualifications for membership on our Board and must include the information required pursuant to the By-Laws with respect to the nominating stockholder and the director nominee.

The Company must receive the written nomination for an annual meeting not less than 90 days and not more than 120 days prior to the first anniversary of the previous year’s annual meeting of stockholders, or, if no annual meeting was held the previous year or the date of the annual meeting is advanced more than 30 days before or delayed more than 60 days after the anniversary date, we must receive the written nomination not later than the later of 90 days prior to such annual meeting or the close of business on the tenth day following the day on which public announcement of the date of such annual meeting is made by the Company.

The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee expects, as minimum qualifications, that nominees to our Board of Directors (including incumbent directors) will enhance our Board of Director’s management, finance and/or scientific expertise, will not have a conflict of interest and will have a high ethical standard. A VOTEdirector nominee’s knowledge and/or experience in areas such as, but not limited to, the medical, biotechnology, or life sciences industry, equity and debt capital markets and financial accounting are likely to be considered both in relation to the individual’s qualification to serve on our Board of Directors and the needs of our Board of Directors as a whole. Other characteristics, including but not limited to, the director nominee’s material relationships with us, time availability, service on other boards of directors and their committees, or any other characteristics that may prove relevant at any given time as determined by the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee shall be reviewed for purposes of determining a director nominee’s qualification.

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Candidates for director nominees are evaluated by the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee in the context of the current composition of our Board, our operating requirements and the long-term interests of our stockholders. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee then uses its network of contacts to compile a list of potential candidates, but may also engage, if it deems appropriate, a professional search firm. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee conducts any appropriate and necessary inquiries into the backgrounds and qualifications of possible candidates after considering the function and needs of our Board. In the case of incumbent directors whose terms of office are set to expire, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee reviews such directors’ overall service to us during their term, including the number of meetings attended, level of participation, quality of performance, and any other relationships and transactions that might impair such directors’ independence. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee meets to discuss and consider such candidates’ qualifications and then selects a nominee for recommendation to our Board by majority vote. To date, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee has not paid a fee to any third party to assist in the process of identifying or evaluating director candidates.

In identifying candidates for membership on the Board, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee takes into account all factors it considers appropriate and will seek to ensure that its membership consists of sufficiently diverse backgrounds, meaning a mix of backgrounds and experiences that will enhance the quality of the Board’s deliberations and decisions. In considering candidates for the Board, the independent directors will consider, among other factors, diversity with respect to viewpoints, skills, experience and other demographics. In February 2020, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee instituted a policy whereby diversity, including diversity of gender, origin and background, became a key consideration when identifying candidates for membership on the Board. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee also may consider the extent to which the candidate would fill a present need on the Board.

Research and Development Committee

The Research and Development Committee was established in August 2013 with the purpose of providing advice and guidance to the Board on scientific and medical matters and development. The Research and Development Committee currently consists of Drs. Sidransky, Khleif (Chairman) and Patton. The functions of the Research and Development Committee include providing advice and guidance to the Board on scientific matters and providing advice and guidance to the Board on medical matters. The Research and Development Committee held did not hold any meetings during the 2020 fiscal year.

Board Leadership Structure

On May 27, 2015, David Sidransky was appointed Chairman and continues to serve as Chairman. Dr. Sidransky’s experience in life science companies, as well as his scientific knowledge, his history with our Company and his own history of innovation and strategic thinking, qualify him to serve as our Chairman. Additionally, on April 23, 2018, Kenneth Berlin was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer and named a member of the Board of Directors. Mr. Berlin’s knowledge of industry standards and his experience in industry operations, and his leadership experience complements Dr. Sidransky’s scientific knowledge.

While we do not have a formal policy regarding the separation of our principal executive officer and chairman of our Board, we believe the current structure is in the best interest of the Company at this time. Further, this structure demonstrates to our employees, customers and stockholders that we are under strong leadership, with multiple skills and sets the tone for managing our operations. This leadership structure promotes strategic development and execution, timely decision-making and effective management of our resources. We believe that we are well-served by this structure.

Code of Ethics

We have adopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics that applies to our employees, senior management and Board, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Accounting Officer. The Code of Business Conduct and Ethics is available on our website at http://www.advaxis.com/corporate-governance/governance-overview.

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Risk Oversight

The Board has an active role in overseeing our risk management and is responsible for discussing with management and the independent auditors our major financial risk exposures, the guidelines and policies by which risk assessment and management is undertaken, and the steps management has taken to monitor and control risk exposure. The Board regularly engages in discussions of the most significant risks that we are facing and how those risks are being managed. The Board believes that its work and the work of the Chairman and the principal executive officer, enables the Board to effectively oversee our risk management function.

Stockholder Communications to the Board

Stockholders may contact an individual director, the Board as a group, or a specified Board committee or group, including the non-employee directors as a group, by writing to the following address:

Advaxis, Inc.
9 Deer Park Drive, Suite K-1
Monmouth Junction, NJ 08852
Attn: Board of Directors

Each communication should specify the applicable addressee or addressees to be contacted as well as the general topic of the communication. We will initially receive and process communications before forwarding them to the addressee. We generally will not forward to the directors a stockholder communication that we determine to be primarily commercial in nature or relates to an improper or irrelevant topic, or that requests general information about us.

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation

Currently, the Compensation Committee consists of Mr. Berman and Drs. Khleif and Sidransky. No member of the Compensation Committee was an officer or employee of the Company during the last fiscal year, or had any relationship with the Company requiring disclosure under Item 404 of Regulation S-K. No executive officer of the Company served as a member of the board of directors or compensation committee of another entity, one of whose executive officers served on the Company’s Compensation Committee or Board of Directors.

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions

Our policy is to enter into transactions with related parties on terms that, on the whole, are no more favorable, or no less favorable, than those available from unaffiliated third parties. Based on our experience in the business sectors in which we operate and the terms of our transactions with unaffiliated third parties, we believe that all transactions that we enter will meet this policy standard at the time they occur. Presently, we have no such related party transactions.

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management

The following table sets forth information regarding the beneficial ownership of our common stock by (a) each person who is known to us to be the owner of more than five percent (5%) of our common stock, (b) each of our directors, (c) each of the named executive officers, and (d) all directors and executive officers and executive employees as a group. For purposes of the table, a person or group of persons is deemed to have beneficial ownership of any shares that such person has the right to acquire within 60 days of March 29, 2021. The percentage of ownership is based on 120,382,668 shares outstanding as of March 29, 2021. Unless otherwise indicated by footnote, the address for each of the beneficial owners set forth in the table below is c/o Advaxis, Inc., 9 Deer Park Drive, Suite K-1, Monmouth Junction, NJ 08852.

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Name of Beneficial Owner Total # of Shares Beneficially Owned  Percentage of Ownership 
Kenneth Berlin (1)  124,777   *%
Igor Gitelman (2)  -   *%
David Sidransky (3)  25,021   *%
Roni Appel (4)  29,170   *%
Richard Berman (5)  20,623   *%
Samir Khleif (6)  24,084   *%
James Patton (7)  36,389   *%
Andres Gutierrez (8)  50,973   *%
All Current Directors and Officers as a Group (8 People) (9)  305,481   *%
Molly Henderson (10)  5,833   *%
Renaissance Technologies LLC (11)  6,069,343   5.04%

*Less than 1%

(1) Represents 16,111 issued shares of our Common Stock, 5,555 restricted stock units that vest within 60 days, and options to purchase 103,111 shares of our Common Stock exercisable within 60 days.

(2) Mr. Gitelman’s options are not exercisable within 60 days.

(3) Represents 7,355 issued shares of our Common Stock and options to purchase 17,666 shares of our Common Stock exercisable within 60 days.

(4) Represents 10,476 issued shares of our Common Stock, options to purchase 16,805 shares of our Common Stock exercisable within 60 days and warrants to purchase 1,889 shares of our Common Stock exercisable within 60 days.

(5) Represents 3,711 issued shares of our Common Stock and options to purchase 16,912 shares of our Common Stock exercisable within 60 days.

(6) Represents 4,639 issued shares of our Common Stock and options to purchase 19,445 shares of our Common Stock exercisable within 60 days.

(7) Represents 19,117 issued shares of our Common Stock and options to purchase 17,272 shares of our Common Stock exercisable within 60 days.

(8) Represents 3,750 issued shares of our Common Stock and options to purchase 47,223 shares of our Common Stock exercisable within 60 days.

(9) Represents 70,715 issued shares of our Common Stock and options to purchase 238,434 shares of our Common Stock exercisable within 60 days and warrants to purchase 1,889 shares of our Common Stock exercisable within 60 days.

(10) Represents 5,833 issued shares of our Common Stock. Ms. Henderson resigned as the Company’s Chief Financial Officer effective September 25, 2020.

(11) Represents 6,069,343 issued shares of our Common Stock. The address for Renaissance Technologies LLC is 800 Third Avenue, New York, New York 10022. Information is derived in part from Schedule 13G/A filed on February 11, 2021.

Non-Employee Director Compensation

For fiscal year 2020, non-employee directors received an annual cash retainer of $50,000 for Board services, and the Chairman of the Board and the Vice Chairman of the Board received larger annual cash retainers of $80,000 and $65,000, respectively. Non-employee directors received additional annual retainers for serving on Board committees, as follows: $15,000 for Audit Committee Chair; $15,000 for Compensation Committee Chair; $7,500 for Audit Committee member; $7,500 for Compensation Committee member; $10,000 for Nominating and Corporate Governance Chair; $10,000 for Research and Development Chair; $5,000 for Nominating and Corporate Governance member; $5,000 for Research and Development member. On May 4, 2020, each non-employee director was granted 13,000 stock options. Of these options, one-third vest on May 4, 2021, one-third vest on May 4, 2022, and the final third will vest on May 4, 2023. The Compensation Committee annually reviews and makes recommendations to the Board regarding compensation and benefits for non-employee directors. As part of its annual review, the Compensation Committee regularly engages an independent compensation consultant to provide competitive market data and advice regarding non-employee director compensation.

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The table below summarizes the compensation that was earned by our non-employee directors for fiscal year 2020:

Name Fees Earned or Paid
in Cash ($) (1)
  Option
Awards ($) (2)
  Total ($) 
Dr. David Sidransky  105,000   6,760   111,760 
Dr. James Patton  87,500   6,760   94,260 
Roni A. Appel  62,500   6,760   69,260 
Richard J. Berman  72,500   6,760   79,260 
Dr. Samir N. Khleif  67,500   6,760   74,260 

(1)Represents the annual retainers paid in cash for director services in fiscal year 2020.
(2)Reflects the aggregate grant date fair value of stock options determined in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. The assumptions used in determining the grant date fair values of the stock options are set forth in Note 7 to the Company’s financial statements.

Vote Required

To be elected under the Director Election Proposal, a director must receive “FOR” PROPOSAL NO. 1 RELATING TO ELECTING EACH OF THE FIVE NOMINEES LISTED ABOVE.votes from a majority of the votes cast by stockholders with respect to that director’s election. A director who fails to receive a majority of “FOR” votes will be required to tender his or her resignation to our Board. Our Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee will then assess whether there is a significant reason for such director to remain on our Board, and will make a recommendation to our Board regarding that director’s resignation. If a quorum is present, broker non-votes will not affect the outcome of the vote on the Director Election Proposal, while abstentions will have the same practical effect as a vote “AGAINST” the applicable nominee under the Director Election Proposal.

The Board of Directors unanimously recommends a vote “FOR” each of the director nominees under the Director Election Proposal.

 

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PROPOSAL NO. 2
APPROVAL OF AN AMENDMENT TO OUR AMENDED AND RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION TO INCREASE THE TOTAL NUMBER OF AUTHORIZED SHARES OF COMMON STOCK FROM 95,000,000 TOPROPOSAL

Approval of an Amendment to the Charter to increase the number of authorized shares of common stock, $0.001 par value per share from 170,000,000

shares to 300,000,000 shares

Overview

 

Our Amended and Restated CertificateBoard has approved an amendment to our Charter, subject to stockholder approval, to increase the number of Incorporation (the “Certificate”) currently authorize us to issue an aggregate of 95,000,000authorized shares of common stock par value $0.001 per share,from 170,000,000 shares to 300,000,000 shares, and 5,000,000recommends unanimously that our stockholders approve the Authorized Shares Proposal. The text of the proposed amendment is attached hereto as Appendix A (the “Charter Amendment”). You are encouraged to read the Charter Amendment and our Charter, which is available as Exhibit 3.1 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K/A for the year ended October 31, 2020, carefully in their entirety.

The additional 130,000,000 shares of “blank check” preferredcommon stock par value $0.001 per share.will be part of the existing class of common stock, and, if and when issued, would have the same rights and privileges as the shares of common stock presently issued and outstanding. The Authorized Shares Proposal is not contingent on the approval of any other proposal to be considered at the Annual Meeting (including, for the avoidance of doubt, the Stock Split Proposal).

The Company previously amended and restated its charter to increase the number of authorized shares of common stock from 95,000,000 to 170,000,000 following approval by the Company’s stockholders at the 2019 Annual Meeting of Stockholders held on February 21, 2019.

 

Purpose

Our Board believes that the authorized number of Directors has approved,shares of common stock should be increased as a matter of good corporate governance to provide sufficient shares for such corporate purposes as may reasonably be determined by the Board to be necessary and is seekingin the best interest of the Company and its stockholders. These purposes may include, but are not limited to:

expanding our business through the acquisition of other businesses, products or assets;
establishing partnerships and strategic relationships with other companies;
raising capital through the future sale of our common stock when necessary or appropriate; and
attracting and retaining valuable employees by providing shares available for equity incentives.

Our Board believes that these additional shares would provide us with needed flexibility to issue shares in the future without potential expense or delay incident to obtaining stockholder approval for a particular issuance. Currently, we do not have any specific plans, arrangements, undertakings or agreements for the proposed increase of an amendmentauthorized shares in connection with any of the foregoing prospective activities. Once authorized, the additional shares of common stock may be issued with approval of our Board but without further approval from our stockholders, unless applicable law, rule or regulation requires stockholder approval for such issuance. Stockholder approval of the Authorized Shares Proposal is required under Delaware law.

Proposed Changes to our Certificate (the “Amendment”) tothe Charter

The proposed Authorized Shares Proposal will increase the number of shares of common stock authorized for issuance by 75,000,000from 170,000,000 shares bringingto 300,000,000 shares. Before giving effect to any changes following approval of the total number ofAuthorized Shares Proposal, the Company is currently authorized to issue 175,000,000 shares of capital stock, of which 170,000,000 shares are designated as common stock to 170,000,000 shares.and 5,000,000 shares are designated as preferred stock, $0.001 par value per share (“preferred stock”) (none of which are currently issued and outstanding). The textAuthorized Shares Proposal will not change any substantive terms of the proposedCompany’s common stock or preferred stock or any powers or rights of their respective holders. The Company’s common stock will continue to be listed and traded on the Nasdaq under the symbol “ADXS.”

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If the Authorized Shares Proposal is approved, we intend to amend the Charter in connection with implementing the proposal. A copy of the Charter Amendment is attached heretoto this proxy statement asExhibit A. Appendix A.

Certain Risks Associated with the Authorized Shares Proposal

 

No changesThere can be no assurance that the market price per share of our common stock after the Authorized Shares Proposal will remain constant in proportion to the Certificate are being proposed with respect to the number of authorized shares of preferred stock. Other than the proposed increase in the number of authorized shares of our common stock outstanding before the Authorized Shares Proposal.

The market price of our common stock will also be based on our performance and other factors, some of which are unrelated to the number of shares outstanding. These factors include the status of the market for our common stock, our reported results of operations in future periods, and general economic, market and industry conditions.

Principal Effects on Outstanding Common Stock

Holders of common stock are entitled to one vote per share on all matters submitted to a vote of stockholders. Upon a liquidation, dissolution or windup of the Amendment is not intendedCompany, holders of common stock would be entitled to modifyshare ratably in any assets for distribution to stockholders after payment of all of the Company’s obligations, subject to the rights to receive preferential distributions of existing stockholders inthe holders of any material respect. preferred stock then outstanding.

The additional shares of common stock to be authorized pursuant to the Amendment would have rights identical to the currently outstandingour common stock currently outstanding. Approval of the Company. Our stockholders do not currently haveAuthorized Shares Proposal and any preemptive or similar rights to subscribe for or purchase any additional sharesissuance of common stock that may be issued inwould not affect the future, and therefore,rights of the holders of our common stock currently outstanding, except to the extent that future issuances of common stock may, depending onwould reduce each existing stockholder’s proportionate ownership. If the circumstances, have a dilutive effect onproposed Authorized Shares Proposal is approved and the earnings per share, voting power and other interestsBoard decides to issue such shares of the existing stockholders.

The Boardcommon stock, such issuance of Directors has unanimously determined that the Amendment is advisable and in the best interests of the Company and our stockholders, and recommends that our stockholders approve the Amendment.

Reasons for Increase

The Board of Directors believes that it is prudent tocommon stock would increase the authorizedoutstanding number of shares of common stock, thereby causing dilution in orderearnings per share and voting interests of the outstanding common stock. As of the Record Date,             shares of our common stock were issued and outstanding and          shares of our common stock were subject to maintain a reserveoutstanding stock options, warrants or other convertible securities, thereby leaving shares of common stock unassigned and authorized for potential issuance of the current 170,000,000 shares of common stock authorized. If the Authorized Shares Proposal is approved, there will be            shares of common stock unassigned and authorized for potential issuance. If approved, the Authorized Shares Proposal will not change the number of shares availableof preferred stock authorized for immediateissuance.

The following table sets forth the potential dilutive effect on the beneficial ownership of the existing stockholders of the Company if all of the shares of common stock authorized were issued by the Company:

Beneficial Ownership of Existing Stockholders before the Authorized Shares ProposalBeneficial Ownership of Existing Stockholders after the Authorized Shares Proposal
NumberPercentageNumberPercentage
Existing Stockholders (1)(2)%%

(1) For purposes of clarification, the percentage represented by the existing stockholders excludes any and all options, warrants and other convertible securities held by the existing stockholders.

(2) Ownership is based upon the number of outstanding shares of common stock as of the Record Date, and assumes the issuance to meet business needs, such as a strategic acquisition opportunity or equity offerings, promptly as they arise. The Board of Directors believes that maintaining such a reserve will save time and money in responding to future events requiringall authorized but unissued shares of common stock before the proposed amendment.

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Additionally, the issuance of additional shares of common stock such as strategic acquisitionscould have the effect of making it more difficult for a third party to acquire, or future equity offerings.

All authorized but unissueddiscouraging a third party from attempting to acquire, control of the Company. While the issuance of additional shares of common stock willmay be available for issuance from timedeemed to time for any proper purpose approvedhave potential anti-takeover effects, including by delaying or preventing a change in control of the BoardCompany through subsequent issuances of Directors (includingthese shares and the other reasons set forth above, which among other things, could include issuances in connection with issuances to raise capital, effect acquisitionsone or stock-based employee benefit plans), without further votemore transactions that would make a change in control of the Company more difficult, and therefore, less likely, this proposal to increase the authorized common stock is not prompted by any specific effort of which we are aware to accumulate shares of our common stock or obtain control of the Company. A takeover may be beneficial to independent stockholders exceptbecause, among other reasons, a potential suitor may offer such stockholders a premium for their shares of common stock as required under applicable law orcompared to the Nasdaq Marketplace Rules. There are currently no arrangements, agreements or understandings forthen-existing market price. Although the issuance of the additional shares of authorized common stock except for issuancescould, under certain circumstances, have an anti-takeover effect, this proposal to adopt Authorized Shares Proposal is not in response to any attempt to accumulate common stock or obtain control of the Company that we are aware of, nor is it part of a plan by management to recommend a series of similar amendments to the Board or stockholders.

Interests of Certain Persons in the ordinary courseProposal

Our directors and executive officers have no substantial interests, directly or indirectly, in the matters set forth in this Authorized Shares Proposal, except to the extent of business. their ownership in shares of our common stock and securities convertible or exercisable for common stock.

Vote Required

Approval of the Authorized Shares Proposal requires the affirmative vote of a majority of the Company’s outstanding stock entitled to vote thereon. Abstentions will have the same practical effect as a vote “AGAINST” the Authorized Shares Proposal. Broker discretionary voting is permitted with respect to the Authorized Shares Proposal.

The Board of Directors does not presently intend to seek further stockholder approval of any particular issuance of shares unless such approval is required by law orunanimously recommends a vote “FOR” the Nasdaq Marketplace Rules.Authorized Shares Proposal.

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If the Proposed Amendment is approved by the stockholders, it will become effective upon filing and recording of a Certificate of Amendment as required by the Delaware General Corporation Law.

STOCK SPLIT PROPOSAL

 

Vote Required

To approve Proposal No. 2, stockholders holdingApproval of an Amendment to the Charter to effect a majorityreverse stock split of our common stock at a ratio to be determined by the Board within a specified range of one-for-five to one-for-fifteen, without reducing the authorized number of shares of our common stock, to be effected in the sole discretion of the outstanding sharesBoard at any time within one year of Advaxis common stock must vote FOR Proposal No. 2. “Broker non-votes” shall be counted as votes FOR Proposal No. 2, while abstentions will count as a vote AGAINST Proposal No. 2.

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS

A VOTE “FOR” PROPOSAL NO. 2 RELATING TO THE AMENDMENT OF OUR AMENDED

AND RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION TO INCREASE OUR

AUTHORIZED SHARES OF COMMON STOCK BY 75,000,000 SHARES

FROM 95,000,000 TO 170,000,000.

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PROPOSAL NO. 3
APPROVAL OF AN AMENDMENT TO OUR AMENDED AND RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION TO EFFECT A REVERSE STOCK SPLIT OF OUR COMMON STOCK AT A RATIO DETERMINED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS WITHIN A SPECIFIED RANGE, WITHOUT REDUCING THE AUTHORIZED NUMBER OF SHARES OF OUR COMMON STOCK, TO BE EFFECTED IN THE SOLE DISCRETION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AT ANY TIME WITHIN ONE YEAR OF THE DATE OF THE ANNUAL MEETING WITHOUT FURTHER APPROVAL OR AUTHORIZATION OF OUR STOCKHOLDERSthe date of the Annual Meeting without further approval or authorization of our stockholders

 

Overview

 

The Board has adopted a resolution approving and recommending to the Company’s stockholders for their approval a proposal to amend our certificate of incorporationCharter to effect a reverse split of our outstanding shares of common stock within a range of one share of common stock for every tenfive shares (1-for-10)(1-for-5) of common stock to one share of common stock for every twenty-fivefifteen shares (1-for-25)(1-for-15) of common stock, with the exact reverse split ratio to be decided and publicly announced by the Board prior to the effective time of the amendment to our Amended and Restated Certificate of IncorporationCharter to effect the reverse stock split (the “ReverseReverse Stock Split Amendment”Amendment). If the stockholders approve this Stock Split Proposal, No. 3, the Board will have the authority to decide, at any time prior towithin one year of the date of our 2020this Annual Meeting, of Stockholders (the “2020 Annual Meeting”), whether to implement the reverse stock split and the precise ratio of the reverse stock split within a range of one-for-tenone-for-five shares of our common stock to one-for-twenty-fiveone-for-fifteen shares of our common stock. If the Board decides to implement the reverse stock split, the reverse stock split will become effective upon the filing of the Reverse Stock Split Amendment with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware.

 

The Board reserves the right, even after stockholder approval, to abandon or postpone the filing of the Reverse Stock Split Amendment if the Board determines that it is not in the best interests of the Company and the stockholders. If the Reverse Stock Split Amendment is not implemented by the Board prior towithin one year of the date of the 2020this Annual Meeting, the proposal will be deemed abandoned, without any further effect. In that case, the Board may again seek stockholder approval at a future date for a reverse stock split if it deems a reverse stock split to be advisable at that time. The Stock Split Proposal is not contingent on the approval of any other proposal to be considered at the Annual Meeting (including, for the avoidance of doubt, the Authorized Shares Proposal).

Reasons for the Reverse Stock Split

The primary reason for the reverse stock split is to allow us to attempt to increase the bid price of our common stock by reducing the number of outstanding shares of our common stock. To continue listing on The Nasdaq GlobalCapital Market, we must comply with the applicable listing requirements under Nasdaq Marketplace Rules, which requirements include, among others, a minimum bid price of at least $1.00 per share. On December 10, 2018,October 30, 2020, the closing bid price of our common stock on the Nasdaq Global Market was $0.37. The Board believes that the reverse stock split will enhance the Company’s ability to maintain compliance with the applicable listing requirements under Nasdaq Marketplace Rules.$0.3380.

 

If we were unable to maintain compliance with the $1.00 minimum bid price requirement and our common stock were delisted from Nasdaq, trading of our common stock would most likely take place on an over-the-counter market established for unlisted securities, such as the Pink Sheets or the OTC Bulletin Board. An investor would likely find it less convenient to sell, or to obtain accurate quotations in seeking to buy, our common stock on an over-the-counter market, and many investors would likely not buy or sell our common stock due to difficulty in accessing over-the-counter markets, policies preventing them from trading in securities not listed on a national exchange or other reasons. In addition, as a delisted security, our common stock would be subject to SEC rules regarding “penny stock,” which impose additional disclosure requirements on broker-dealers. The regulations relating to penny stocks, coupled with the typically higher cost per trade to the investor of penny stocks due to factors such as broker commissions generally representing a higher percentage of the price of a penny stock than of a higher-priced stock, would further limit the ability of investors to trade in our common stock. For these reasons and others, delisting from the Nasdaq Capital Market would adversely affect the liquidity, trading volume and price of our common stock, causing the value of an investment in us to decrease and having an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations, including our ability to attract and retain qualified employees and to raise capital.

 

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In addition, among the factors considered by the Board in reaching its decision to recommend the reverse stock split, the Board considered the potential effects of having stock that trades at a low price. Since the brokerage commissions on stock with a low trading price generally represent a higher percentage of the stock price than commissions on higher priced stock, investors in stocks with a low trading price pay transaction costs (commissions, markups, or markdowns) at a higher percentage of their total share value, which may limit the willingness of individual investors and institutions to purchase our common stock.

There will be no change in our authorized shares as a result of the Reverse Stock Split Amendment and therefore, upon effectiveness of the reverse stock split, the number of shares of our common stock that are authorized and unissued will increase relative to the number of issued and outstanding shares. Except as discussed below under the heading “Principal Effects of the Reverse Stock Split,” we currently have no plans, proposals, arrangements or understandings to issue any of our authorized but unissued shares of our common stock. However, it is possible that some of these additional authorized shares could be used in the future for various other purposes without further stockholder approval, except as such approval may be required in particular cases by our certificate of incorporation, applicable law or the rules of any stock exchange or other system on which our securities may then be listed.

 

Certain Risks Associated with the Reverse Stock Split

 

Certain risks associated with the implementation of the reverse stock split include, without limitation, the following:

 

 While the Board believes that a higher share price may help generate investor interest, there can be no assurance that a reverse stock split will result in a share price that will attract institutional investors or investment funds or satisfy the investing guidelines of such investors.
   
 Some investors may view the reverse stock split negatively, and there can be no assurance that the reverse stock split will favorably impact the share price of our common stock or that the reverse stock split will not adversely impact the share price of our common stock.
   
 There can be no assurance that the reverse stock split will increase the share price for our common stock. The reverse stock split also may not result in a permanent increase in the share price, which depends on many factors, including our performance, prospects and other factors that may be unrelated to the number of shares outstanding.
   
 There can be no assurance that we can maintain compliance with the minimum bid price requirement of Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(a)(2) for our common stock, and there can be no assurance that we will continue to meet the other listing requirements of The Nasdaq Capital Market.
   
 Although the reverse stock split will not, by itself, impact our assets or prospects, if the fair market value per share of the common stock does not increase proportionately to the decrease in the number of shares of common stock outstanding, the Company’s aggregate market value will decrease.
   
 We will have fewer shares that are publicly traded. As a result, the trading liquidity of our Common Stock may decline.
   
 If the maximum 1-for-25 reverse split is authorized and declared, the reverse split would result in holders of fewer than 2,500 shares holding an “odd lot” or less than 100 shares. A securities transaction of 100 or more shares is a “round lot” transaction of shares for securities trading purposes and a transaction of less than 100 shares is an “odd lot” transaction. Odd lot shares may be more difficult to sell, and brokerage commissions and other costs of transactions in odd lots are generally somewhat higher than the costs of transactions in “round lots” of even multiples of 100 shares.
Because the number of authorized shares of the Company’s common stock will not be reduced proportionately, the reverse stock split will increase the Board’s ability to issue authorized and unissued shares without further stockholder action, the issuance of which would be dilutive to our existing stockholders and may cause a decline in the trading price of our common stock. The Company could also use authorized but unissued and unreserved shares to oppose a hostile takeover attempt or delay or prevent changes in control or changes in or removal of management. We do not currently have any plans, proposals, or arrangements at this time to issue any of the additional authorized shares of common stock realized as a result of a reverse stock split for any future acquisitions or financings or any other purpose.

 

Principal Effects of a Reverse Stock Split

 

After the effective date of the reverse stock split, each stockholder would own a reduced number of shares of common stock. However, the reverse stock split would affect all stockholders uniformly and would not affect any stockholder’s percentage ownership interest in Advaxisthe Company (except to the extent that the reverse stock split would result in some of our stockholders owning a fractional share as described below). Proportionate voting rights and other rights and preferences of the holders of common stock would not be affected by the reverse stock split (except to the extent that the reverse stock split would result in some of our stockholders owning a fractional share as described below). For example, a holder of 2% of the voting power of the outstanding shares of common stock immediately prior to the reverse stock split would continue to hold approximately 2% of the voting power of the outstanding shares of common stock immediately after the reverse stock split. The number of stockholders of record also would not be affected by the reverse stock split (except to the extent that the reverse stock split would result in some of our stockholders owning only a fractional share as described below).

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The following table contains approximate information relating to our common stock if (i) the reverse stock split is implemented at a ratio of one-for-tenone-for-five and (ii) the reverse stock split is implemented at a ratio of one-for-fifteen based on share information as of close of business on December 26, 2018:March 29, 2021.

 

As of December 26, 2018 Shares Issued and Outstanding  Shares Authorized and Reserved for Issuance(1)  Shares Authorized and Unreserved  Total
Authorized
 
Pre-split  69,619,886   20,258,103   5,122,011   95,000,000 
If 1-for-10 reverse stock split enacted  6,961,989   2,025,810   86,012,201   95,000,000 
If 1-for-15 reverse stock split enacted  4,641,326   1,350,540   89,008,134   95,000,000 
If 1-for-25 reverse stock split enacted  2,784,795   810,324   91,404,881   95,000,000 
As of March 29, 2021 Shares Issued and Outstanding  Shares Authorized and Reserved for Issuance (1)(2)  Shares Authorized and Unreserved (2)  Total Authorized (2) 
Pre-split  120,382,668   6,029,559   225,003   170,000,000 
If 1-for-5 reverse stock split enacted  24,076,534   1,205,912   45,001   170,000,000 
If 1-for-15 reverse stock split enacted  8,025,511   401,971   15,000   170,000,000 

 

(1) Shares that are authorized and reserved for issuance upon the exercise of outstanding options, warrants, and unvested restricted stock units.

 

(2) This table does not give effect to the increase in authorized shares that would result if the Authorized Shares Proposal is approved at the Annual Meeting.

Procedures for Effecting the Reverse Stock Split and Filing the Reverse Stock Split Amendment

 

If the stockholders approve the Reverse Stock Split Amendment and the Board subsequently determines that it is in the Company’s and the stockholders’ best interests to effect a reverse stock split, our Board will then determine the ratio of the reverse stock split to be implemented. Any such split will become effective upon the filing of the Reverse Stock Split Amendment with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware. The actual timing of any such filing will be made by the Board at such time as the Board believes to be most advantageous to the Company and its stockholders.

 

Fractional Shares

 

Stockholders will not receive fractional shares in connection with the reverse stock split. Instead, the Company’s transfer agent will aggregate all fractional shares collectively held by the Company’s stockholders into whole shares and arrange for them to be sold on the open market. Stockholders otherwise entitled to fractional shares will receive a cash payment in lieu thereof in an amount equal to the stockholder’s pro rata share of the total net proceeds of these sales. Stockholders will not be entitled to receive interest for the period of time between the effective date of the reverse stock split and the date the stockholder receives his or her cash payment. The proceeds will be subject to certain taxes as discussed below.

 

Stockholders holding fewer than one (1) post-reverse split share of the Company’s common stock will receive only cash in lieu of fractional shares and will no longer hold any shares of common stock as of the effective time of the Reverse Stock Split Amendment.

 

Effective Time and Implementation of the Reverse Stock Split

 

The effective time (the “Effective Time”Effective Time) for the reverse stock split will be the date on which the Company files the Reverse Stock Split Amendment with the office of the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware or such later date and time as specified in the Reverse Stock Split Amendment as filed, provided that the Effective Time must be prior towithin one year of the 2020date of this Annual Meeting.

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Effect of Reverse Stock Split on Options

The number of shares subject to outstanding options to purchase shares of our common stock also would automatically be reduced in the same ratio as the reduction in the outstanding shares. Correspondingly, the per share exercise price of those options will be increased in direct proportion to the reverse stock split ratio, so that the aggregate dollar amount payable for the purchase of the shares subject to the options will remain unchanged. For example, assuming that an optionee holds options to purchase 100 shares at an exercise price of $1.25 per share, on the effectiveness of a 1-for-10 reverse stock split (which is the midpoint of the range included under the Stock Split Proposal), the number of shares subject to that option would be reduced to 10 shares and the exercise price would be proportionately increased to $12.50 per share.

 

Effect of Reverse Stock Split on Warrants

The agreements governing the outstanding warrants to purchase shares of our common stock include provisions requiring adjustments to both the number of shares issuable upon exercise of such warrants, and the exercise prices of such warrants, in the event of a reverse stock split. For example, assuming that a warrant holder holds a warrant to purchase 1,000 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $0.75 per share, on the effectiveness of a 1-for-10 reverse stock split (which is the midpoint of the range included under the Stock Split Proposal), the number of shares subject to that warrant would be reduced to 100 shares and the exercise price would be proportionately increased to $7.50 per share.

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Effect of Reverse Stock Split on Convertible Promissory Notes

The agreements governing any outstanding convertible promissory notes generally include provisions requiring adjustments to the number of shares issuable upon conversion, and the conversion price for such shares, in the event of a reverse stock split. For example, assuming that a note holder holds a promissory note convertible into 1,000 shares of our common stock at a conversion price of $0.75 per share, on the effectiveness of a 1-for-10 reverse stock split, the number of shares subject to that convertible promissory note would generally be reduced to 100 shares and the conversion price would be proportionately increased to $7.50 per share. However, convertible promissory notes that we may issue may be subject to specifically negotiated agreements and accordingly, the terms of the applicable specific agreement would govern any adjustments due to a reverse stock split.

Beneficial Holders of Common Stock

 

Upon the implementation of the reverse stock split, the Company intends to treat shares held by stockholders through a bank, broker, custodian or other nominee in the same manner as registered stockholders whose shares are registered in their names. Banks, brokers, custodians or other nominees will be instructed to effect the reverse stock split for their beneficial holders holding common stock in street name. However, these banks, brokers, custodians or other nominees may have different procedures than registered stockholders for processing the reverse stock split and making payment for fractional shares. Stockholders who hold shares of common stock with a bank, broker, custodian or other nominee and who have any questions in this regard are encouraged to contact their banks, brokers, custodians or other nominees.

 

Registered “Book-Entry” Holders of Common Stock

 

Certain registered holders of common stock may hold some or all of their shares electronically in book-entry form with the transfer agent. These stockholders do not have stock certificates evidencing their ownership of the common stock. They are, however, provided with a statement reflecting the number of shares registered in their accounts.

 

Stockholders who hold shares electronically in book-entry form with the transfer agent will not need to take action (the exchange will be automatic) to receive whole shares of post-reverse stock split common stock or payment in lieu of any fractional share interest, if applicable.

Holders of Certificated Shares of Common Stock

 

Stockholders holding shares of common stock in certificated form will be sent a transmittal letter by the transfer agent after the Effective Time. The letter of transmittal will contain instructions on how a stockholder should surrender his, her or its certificate(s) representing shares of common stock (the “Old Certificates”Old Certificates) to the transfer agent in exchange for certificates representing the appropriate number of whole shares of post-reverse stock split common stock (the “New Certificates”New Certificates). No New Certificates will be issued to a stockholder until such stockholder has surrendered all Old Certificates, together with a properly completed and executed letter of transmittal, to the transfer agent. No stockholder will be required to pay a transfer or other fee to exchange his, her or its Old Certificates. Stockholders will receive a New Certificate(s) representing the number of whole shares of common stock that they are entitled to as a result of the reverse stock split. Until surrendered, we will deem outstanding Old Certificates held by stockholders to be cancelled and only to represent the number of whole shares of post-reverse stock split common stock to which these stockholders are entitled. Any Old Certificates submitted for exchange, whether because of a sale, transfer or other disposition of stock, will automatically be exchanged for New Certificates. If an Old Certificate has a restrictive legend on the back of the Old Certificate(s), the New Certificate will be issued with the same restrictive legends that are on the back of the Old Certificate(s). If a stockholder is entitled to a payment in lieu of any fractional share interest, such payment will be made as described above under “—Fractional Shares.”

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Exchange of Pre-Reverse Stock Split Shares with Post-Reverse Stock Split Shares

 

If we implement a reverse stock split, we expect that our transfer agent will act as our exchange agent to act for holders of common stock in implementing the exchange of their pre-reverse stock split shares for post-reverse stock split shares.

 

Registered Book Entry Stockholder.Stockholder. Holders of common stock holding all of their shares electronically in book-entry form with the Company’s transfer agent do not need to take any action (the exchange will be automatic) to receive post-reverse stock split shares.

Registered Certificated Stockholder. Some of our stockholders hold their shares in certificate form or a combination of certificate and book-entry form. If any of your shares are held in certificate form, you will receive a transmittal letter from the Company’s transfer agent as soon as practicable after the effective date of the reverse stock split. The letter of transmittal will contain instructions on how to surrender your certificate(s) representing your pre-reverse stock split shares to the transfer agent. Upon receipt of your pre-reverse stock split certificate(s), you will be issued the appropriate number of shares electronically in book-entry form under the Direct Registration System (“DRS”). No new shares in book-entry form will be reflected until you surrender your outstanding pre-reverse stock split certificate(s), together with the properly completed and executed letter of transmittal, to the transfer agent. At any time after receipt of your DRS statement, you may request a stock certificate representing your ownership interest.

Accounting Matters

 

The reverse stock split will not affect the par value of a share of the Company’s common stock. The Company’s capital account would remain unchanged. Reported per share net income or loss will be higher because there will be fewer shares of common stock outstanding. We do not anticipate that any other accounting consequences would arise as a result of the reverse stock split.

 

Potential Anti-Takeover Effect; Possible Dilution

 

The increase in the number of unissued authorized shares available to be issued could, under certain circumstances, have an anti-takeover effect. For example, shares could be issued that would dilute the stock ownership of a person seeking to effect a change in the composition of our Board of Directors or contemplating a tender offer or other transaction for the combination of the Company with another company. The reverse stock split is not being proposed in response to any effort of which we are aware to accumulate shares of our common stock or obtain control of our company, nor is it part of a plan by management to recommend a series of similar amendments to our Board of Directors and stockholders.

 

The holders of our common stock do not have preemptive rights to subscribe for additional securities that may be issued by the Company, which means that current stockholders do not have a prior right to purchase any additional shares from time to time issued by the Company. Accordingly, if our Board of Directors elects to issue additional shares of common stock, such issuance could have a dilutive effect on the earnings per share, voting power and equity ownership of current stockholders.

 

No Appraisal Rights

 

Under the Delaware General Corporation Law, the Company’s stockholders are not entitled to appraisal rights with respect to the reverse stock split.

 

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U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences ofConsiderations Relevant to the Reverse Stock Split

 

The following is a summary of important U.S. federal income tax considerations ofrelevant to the reverse stock split. Such summary addresses only individual stockholders who are U.S. stockholderscitizens or permanent residents and who hold our common stock as a capital assets.asset within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). Moreover, such summary does not purport to be complete and does not address considerations that may be relevant to stockholders subject to special rules, such as dealerdealers in securities or currencies; financial institutions; regulated investment companies; real estate investment trusts; insurance companies; tax-exempt organizations; persons holding our common stock as part of a straddle, hedge or conversion transaction; traders in securities that have elected the mark-to-market method of accounting with respect to our common stock; partnerships or other pass-through entities for U.S. federal income tax purposes; persons whose “functional currency” is not the U.S. dollar; foreign stockholders; U.S. expatriates; or stockholders who acquired their pre-reverse stock split common stock pursuant to the exercise of employee stock options or otherwise as compensation. Further, it does not address any state, local, estate or foreign income or other tax consequences. This summary is based upon provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), and Treasury regulations, rulings and judicial decisions, all as of the date hereof. Those authorities may be changed, perhaps retroactively, so as to result in U.S. federal income tax consequencesconsiderations different from those summarized below. No ruling from the Internal Revenue Service or opinion of counsel will be obtained regarding the U.S. federal income tax consequencesconsiderations relevant to stockholders as a result of the reverse stock split. The tax treatment of a stockholder may vary depending upon the particular facts and circumstances of such stockholder.

 

Accordingly, stockholders are advised to consult their own tax advisors for more detailed information regarding the effects of the proposed reverse stock split on them under applicable U.S. federal, state, estate, local and foreign tax laws.

 

We believe that the material U.S. federal income tax consequences ofconsiderations relevant to the proposed reverse stock split would be as follows:

 

The proposed reverse stock split is intended to be treated as a “reorganization” within the meaning of Section 368 of the Code. Assuming that such reverse stock split qualifies as a reorganization, a stockholder generally will not recognize gain or loss on thesuch reverse stock split. The aggregate tax basis of the post-reverse stock split common stock received will be equal to the aggregate tax basis of the pre-reverse stock split common stock exchanged therefor (excluding any portion of the holder’s basis allocated to fractional shares), and the holding period of the post-reverse stock split common stock received will include the holding period of the pre-reverse stock split common stock exchanged. No gain or loss will be recognized by us as a result of the reverse stock split.

Stockholders who receive cash for all of their holdings (as a result of owning fewer than one (1) share of our common stock, post split) and who are not related to any person or entity that holds common stock immediately after the reverse stock split, generally should recognize a gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes equal to the difference between the cash received and their basis in the pre-reverse split common stock. Such gain or loss generally would be a capital gain or loss and generally would be a long-term gain or loss to the extent that the stockholder’s holding period exceeds 12 months. Stockholders who receive cash for fractional shares generally should be treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes as having sold their fractional shares and generally should recognize gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between the cash received and the portion of their basis for the pre-reverse stock split common stock allocated to the fractional shares. Similarly, such gain or loss generally should be capital gain or loss and generally would be a long-term gain or loss to the extent that the stockholder’s holding period exceeds 12 months. Long-term capital gains of individual U.S. taxpayers are subject to preferential tax rates. The utilization of capital losses is subject to limitations.

Board Discretion to Implement the Reverse Stock Split

If the proposed reverse stock split is approved at the Annual Meeting, our Board of Directors may, in its sole discretion, at any time prior towithin one year of the 2020 Annual Meeting, determine the ratio for the split based on the parameters in this Stock Split Proposal, No. 3, and authorize the filing of the Reverse Stock Split Amendment with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware. Notwithstanding the approval of the form of the Reverse Stock Split Amendment at the Annual Meeting, our Board of Directors may, in its sole discretion, determine not to implement the reverse stock split.

 

Vote Required

 

To approvebe approved, the Stock Split Proposal No. 3, stockholders holdingmust receive “FOR” votes from a majority of the outstanding shares of Advaxis common stock must vote FOR Proposal No. 3. “Broker non-votes” shall be counted as votes FOR Proposal No. 3, while abstentions will count as a vote AGAINST Proposal No. 3.

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS
A VOTE “FOR” PROPOSAL NO. 3 RELATING TO THE AMENDMENT OF OUR
AMENDED AND RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
TO EFFECT A REVERSE STOCK SPLIT

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PROPOSAL NO. 4

ADVISORY (NON-BINDING) RESOLUTION REGARDING THE COMPENSATION OF OUR NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

Under the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, or the Dodd-Frank Act, and Section 14A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act, our stockholders are entitled to vote to approve, on an advisory (nonbinding) basis, the compensation of our Named Executive Officers as disclosed in this Proxy Statement in accordance with the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules.

Our executive compensation programs are designed to retain and incentivize the high quality executives whose efforts are key to our long-term success. Under these programs, our Named Executive Officers are rewarded on the basis of individual and corporate performance measured against established corporate and strategic goals. Please read the section of this Proxy Statement under the heading “Compensation of Officers and Directors” for additional details about our executive compensation programs, including information about the fiscal year 2018 compensation of our Named Executive Officers.

The Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors continually reviews the compensation programs for our Named Executive Officers to ensure they achieve the desired goals of aligning our executive compensation structure with our stockholders’ interests and current market practices.

We are asking our stockholders to indicate their support for our Named Executive Officer compensation as described in this proxy statement. This proposal, commonly known as a “say-on-pay” proposal, gives our stockholders the opportunity to express their views on our Named Executive Officers’ compensation. This vote is not intended to address any specific item of compensation, but rather the overall compensation of our Named Executive Officers and the philosophy, policies and practices described in this Proxy Statement. Accordingly, we are asking our stockholders to cast a non-binding advisory vote “FOR” the following resolution at the Annual Meeting:

“RESOLVED, that the stockholders of Advaxis, Inc. approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation of the named executive officers, as disclosed in Advaxis, Inc.’s Proxy Statement for the 2019 Annual Meeting of Stockholders pursuant to the compensation disclosure rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the summary compensation table and the other related tables and disclosure.”

The say-on-pay vote is advisory, and therefore not binding on Advaxis, the Compensation Committee or our Board of Directors. Nevertheless, our Board of Directors and our Compensation Committee value the opinions of our stockholders, whether expressed through this vote or otherwise, and accordingly, the Board and Compensation Committee intend to consider the results of this vote among the many factors they consider in making determinations in the future regarding executive compensation arrangements.

Vote Required

Stockholder approval of this Proposal No. 4 will require the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the votes cast in person or by proxy at the Annual Meeting.thereon. Abstentions will have the same practical effect as votes AGAINST Proposal No. 4.a vote “AGAINST” the Stock Split Proposal. Broker non-votes will not affectdiscretionary voting is permitted with respect to the outcome of the vote on Proposal No. 4.Stock Split Proposal.

 

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS A VOTE FOR PROPOSALThe Board of Directors unanimously recommends a vote “FOR” the Stock Split Proposal.

NO. 4 RELATING TO THE ADVISORY VOTE ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

1424

 

PROPOSAL NO. 5

ADVISORY (NON-BINDING) VOTE ON THE FREQUENCY AT WHICH WE SHOULD INCLUDE
AN ADVISORY VOTE REGARDING THE COMPENSATION OF OUR NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERSANNUAL AWARD LIMIT PROPOSAL

 

BackgroundApproval of an Amendment to the 2015 Incentive Plan to increase the
per-participant annual award limitations

 

As described in Proposal No. 4 above, stockholders are being provided the opportunity to cast an advisory vote on our executive compensation program, commonly referred to as a “say-on-pay vote.” The Dodd-Frank Act also enables our stockholders to indicate their preference regarding how frequently we should solicit a non-binding advisory “say-on-pay” vote on the compensation of our named executive officers as disclosed in our Proxy Statements. This Proposal No. 5 is commonly known as a “say-on-frequency” proposal. Accordingly, weWe are asking stockholders to indicate whether theyapprove an amendment, a copy of which is attached to this proxy statement as Appendix B (the “Annual Award Amendment”), to the 2015 Incentive Plan. On February 11, 2020, the Board approved the Annual Award Amendment, which, subject to stockholder approval, would prefer an advisory vote every one year, every two years or every three years. Alternatively,have the effect of increasing the existing per-participant annual award limitations under the 2015 Incentive Plan. The existing limitations on per-participant annual awards under the 2015 Incentive Plan are set forth under “—Summary of 2015 Incentive Plan—Existing Limitations on Awards” below. If the Annual Award Amendment is approved by the stockholders may abstain from casting a vote.

Forat this Annual Meeting, the reasons described below, our Board recommends that our stockholders select a frequency of three years, or a triennial vote. Our Board has determined that an advisory vote on executive compensation every three years isannual per-participant award limits under the best approach for us based on a number of considerations, including the following:2015 Incentive Plan would be as set forth below:

 

 Our compensation program does not change significantly fromOptions. The maximum number of options granted under the 2015 Incentive Plan in any calendar year to year and is designed to induce performance over a multi-year period. A vote held every three years wouldany one participant shall be more consistent with, and provide better input on, our long-term compensation, which constitutes a significant portion of the compensation of our named executive officers;for 1,000,000 shares.
   
 A three-year vote cycle givesSARs. The maximum number of stock appreciation rights granted under the 2015 Incentive Plan in any calendar year to any one participant shall be with respect to 750,000 shares.
Performance Awards. With respect to any calendar year (i) the maximum amount that may be paid to any one participant for performance awards payable in cash or property other than shares shall be $10,000,000, and (ii) the maximum number of shares that may be paid to any one participant for performance awards payable in stock shall be 1,000,000 shares. For purposes of applying these limits in the case of multi-year performance periods, the amount of cash or property or number of shares deemed paid with respect to any calendar year is the total amount payable or shares earned for the performance period divided by the number of calendar years in the performance period.
Awards to Non-Employee Directors. The maximum aggregate number of shares associated with any award granted under the 2015 Incentive Plan in any calendar year to any of the Company’s non-employee directors shall be 200,000 shares.”

Except for the proposed increases to the existing annual award limitations under the 2015 Incentive Plan, the Annual Award Limit Proposal will have no effect on the other provisions of the 2015 Incentive Plan.

The Compensation Committee believes that the existing per-participant annual award limitations under the 2015 Incentive Plan are not sufficient to make the grants it believes will be needed to provide adequate long-term equity incentives to our key employees. Approval of the amendment to the 2015 Incentive Plan will enable the Company to continue making equity compensation grants that serve as incentives to recruit and retain key employees and to continue aligning the interests of its employees with stockholders.

Equity-based compensation is an important element in our compensation program. Equity compensation aligns the interests of our management and key employees with the interests of our stockholders, links pay to performance, and provides a strong incentive to our executives and key employees to join our Company and to remain as we continue to move towards commercialization of our products. Importantly, equity compensation allows us to conserve our crucial cash resources while still being able to attract high quality employees and competitively compensate our experienced management team. If we are not able to grant equity awards, we risk losing our executives and key employees to our competition, which would be disruptive and detrimental to our goals and, ultimately, to our stockholders.

A summary of the 2015 Incentive Plan is set forth below. This summary is qualified in its entirety by the full text of the 2015 Incentive Plan, which is filed as Appendix A to the Company’s proxy statement for the 2015 Annual Meeting and the subsequent amendments thereto, filed as Exhibit B to the Company’s proxy statement for the 2016 Annual Meeting, as Exhibit A to the Company’s proxy statement for the 2017 Annual Meeting and as Exhibit A to the Company’s proxy statement for the 2020 Annual Meeting. A copy of the proposed amendment increasing the per-participant annual award limits under the 2015 Incentive Plan is attached to this proxy statement as Appendix B.

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Key Data Relating to Outstanding Equity Awards and Shares Available

The following table includes information regarding outstanding equity awards and shares available for future awards under the 2015 Incentive Plan as of March 29, 2021. The following table does not give effect to any reduction in the number of shares of common stock authorized for issuance under the 2015 Incentive Plan in the event that the Plan Ratification Proposal is not approved at this Annual Meeting.

Total shares underlying outstanding stock options  1,047,377 
Weighted average exercise price of outstanding stock options $32.02 
Weighted average remaining contractual life of outstanding stock options (Yrs)  7.73 
Total shares underlying outstanding full value awards (1)  1,047,377 
Total shares currently available for grant (2)  4,820,507 

(1)

Includes the maximum number of shares issuable upon conversion of performance awards assuming maximum achievement of all performance goals.

(2)The 2015 Incentive Plan includes an “evergreen” provision, under which the aggregate number of shares of common stock reserved and available for issuance pursuant to awards granted thereunder is increased by the lesser of: (i) 5% of the total number of shares of common stock outstanding on December 31 of the preceding calendar year, (ii) 2,500,000, or (iii) a lesser number determined by the Board on January 1 of each calendar year. On March 9, 2021, the Board approved a January 1, 2021 evergreen increase of 166,667 shares.

Equity Compensation Plan Information

The following table includes information related to shares available and outstanding awards under our equity incentive plans as of October 31, 2020:

Plan Category Number of
Securities to be
issued upon
Exercise of
outstanding
Options,
Warrants and
Rights (#)
  Weighted-average
Exercise Price of
Outstanding Options,
Warrants and Rights ($)
  Number of
Securities
Remaining
Available for
Future Issuance
Under Equity
Compensation
Plans (#)(1)
 
Equity Compensation Plans approved by security holders  1,011,768   33.43   4,856,166 
Equity Compensation Plans not approved by security holders  -   -   - 
TOTAL:  1,011,768   33.43   4,856,166 

(1) The Advaxis, Inc. 2015 Incentive Plan includes an “evergreen” provision, under which the aggregate number of shares of common stock reserved and available for issuance pursuant to awards granted thereunder is increased by the lesser of: (i) 5% of the total number of shares of common stock outstanding on December 31 of the preceding calendar year, (ii) 2,500,000, or (iii) a lesser number determined by the Board on January 1 of each calendar year.

Summary of the 2015 Incentive Plan

Purpose and Eligibility. The purpose of the 2015 Incentive Plan is to promote the Company’s success by linking the personal interests of its employees, officers, directors and consultants to those of the Company’s stockholders, and by providing participants with an incentive for outstanding performance. As of March 29, 2021, approximately 16 employees and 5 non-employee directors were eligible to participate in the 2015 Incentive Plan.

Administration. The 2015 Incentive Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. The Compensation Committee has the authority to: designate participants; grant awards; determine the type or types of awards to be granted to each participant and the number, terms and conditions thereof; establish, adopt or revise any rules and regulations as it may deem advisable to administer the 2015 Incentive Plan; and make all other decisions and determinations that may be required under the 2015 Incentive Plan.

Awards to Non-Employee Directors. Notwithstanding the above, awards granted under the 2015 Incentive Plan to the Company’s non-employee directors are made only in accordance with the terms, conditions and parameters of a plan, program or policy for the compensation of non-employee directors as in effect from time to time.

Permissible Awards. The 2015 Incentive Plan authorizes the granting of awards in any of the following forms:

market-priced options to purchase shares of our Boardcommon stock, which may be designated under the Code as nonstatutory stock options or incentive stock options;
stock appreciation rights, which give the holder the right to receive an amount (payable in cash or stock, as specified in the award agreement) equal to the excess of the fair market value per share of our common stock on the date of exercise over the base price of the award (which cannot be less than the fair market value of the underlying stock as of the grant date), multiplied by the number of stock appreciation rights that have been exercised by the holder;
restricted stock, which is subject to restrictions on transferability and subject to forfeiture on terms set by the Compensation Committee sufficientCommittee;

26

stock units, which represent the right to receive shares of common stock (or an equivalent value in cash or other property, as specified in the award agreement) at a designated time in the future and subject to thoughtfully considerany vesting requirement as may be set by the resultsCompensation Committee;
performance awards, which represent any award of the advisory vote,types listed above which have a performance-vesting component based on the achievement, or the level of achievement, of one or more performance goals during a specified performance period, as established by the Compensation Committee;
other stock-based awards that are denominated or payable in, valued by reference to, engage with stockholdersor otherwise based on, shares of common stock;
cash-based awards, including performance-based annual bonus awards.

Shares Available for Awards. Subject to proportionate adjustment in the event of stock splits and similar events, the aggregate number of shares of common stock that may be issued under the 2015 Incentive Plan is 6,000,000 shares (without giving effect to any reduction in number of shares of common stock authorized for issuance under the 2015 Incentive Plan in the event that the Plan Ratification Proposal is not approved at this Annual Meeting), plus a number of additional shares (not to exceed 650,000) underlying awards outstanding under the Company’s prior equity incentive plan as of the effective date of the 2015 Incentive Plan that thereafter terminate or expire unexercised, or are cancelled, forfeited or lapse for any reason.

Additionally, the 2015 Incentive Plan includes an “evergreen” provision, under which the aggregate number of shares of common stock reserved and available for issuance pursuant to awards granted thereunder is increased by the lesser of: (i) 5% of the total number of shares of common stock outstanding on December 31 of the preceding calendar year, (ii) 2,500,000, or (iii) a lesser number determined by the Board on January 1 of each calendar year.

Shares subject to awards that terminate or expire unexercised, or are cancelled, forfeited or lapse for any reason, and shares underlying awards that are ultimately settled in cash, will again be available for future grants of awards under the 2015 Incentive Plan. To the extent that the full number of shares subject to a full-value award is not issued for any reason, including by reason of failure to achieve maximum performance goals, the unissued shares originally subject to the award will be added back to the plan share reserve. Shares delivered by the participant or withheld from an award to satisfy tax withholding requirements, and shares delivered or withheld to pay the exercise price of an option, will not be used to replenish the plan share reserve. Upon exercise of a SAR, the full number of shares underlying the award (rather than any lesser number based on the net number of shares actually delivered upon exercise) will count against the plan share reserve. The Committee may grant awards under the 2015 Incentive Plan in substitution for awards held by employees of another entity who become employees of the Company as a result of a business combination, and such substitute awards will not count against the plan share reserve.

Existing Limitations on Awards. The maximum aggregate number of shares of common stock subject to time-vesting options or time-vesting SARs that may be granted under the 2015 Incentive Plan in any calendar year to any one participant is 50,000 each. With respect to performance vesting awards, for any calendar year, the maximum amount that may be paid to any one participant payable in cash or property or other than shares is $10,000,000, and the maximum number of shares that may be paid to any one participant payable in stock is 50,000 shares. The maximum aggregate number of shares subject to awards that may be granted under the 2015 Incentive Plan to any non-employee director in any calendar year is 13,333 shares.

Minimum Vesting Requirements. Except in the case of substitute awards granted in a business combination as described above, full-value awards, options and SARs shall either (i) be subject to a minimum vesting period of three years (which may include graduated vesting within such three-year period), or one year if the vesting is based on performance criteria other than continued service, or (ii) be granted solely in exchange for foregone cash compensation. However, the Compensation Committee may at its discretion (i) accelerate vesting of such full-value awards, options and SARs in the event of the participant’s termination of service, or the occurrence of a change in control, or (ii) grant full-value awards, options and SARs without the minimum vesting requirements described above with respect to awards covering 5% or fewer of the total number of shares authorized under the 2015 Incentive Plan.

27

Qualified Performance-Based Awards. All options and stock appreciation rights granted under the 2015 Incentive Plan are designed to be exempt from the $1,000,000 deduction limit imposed by Code Section 162(m). The Committee may designate any other award granted under the 2015 Incentive Plan as a qualified performance-based award in order to make the award fully deductible without regard to the $1,000,000 deduction limit imposed by Code Section 162(m). If an award is so designated, the Compensation Committee must establish objectively determinable performance goals for the award based on one or more of the following business criteria, which may be expressed in terms of Company-wide objectives or in terms of objectives that relate to the performance of an affiliate or a division, region, department or function within the Company or an affiliate over a performance term to be designated by the Compensation Committee:

Revenue
Sales
Profit (net profit, gross profit, operating profit, economic profit, profit margins or other corporate profit measures)
Earnings (EBIT, EBITDA, earnings per share, or other corporate earnings measures)
Net income (before or after taxes, operating income or other income measures)
Cash (cash flow, cash generation or other cash measures)
Stock price or performance
Total stockholder return (stock price appreciation plus reinvested dividends divided by beginning share price)
Economic value added
Return measures (including, but not limited to, understandreturn on assets, capital, equity, investments or sales, and respondcash flow return on assets, capital, equity, or sales);
Market share
Improvements in capital structure
Expenses (expense management, expense ratio, expense efficiency ratios or other expense measures)
Business expansion or consolidation (acquisitions and divestitures)
Internal rate of return or increase in net present value
Working capital targets relating to inventory and/or accounts receivable
Inventory management
Service or product delivery or quality
Customer satisfaction
Employee retention
Safety standards
Productivity measures
Cost reduction measures
Strategic plan development and implementation

The Compensation Committee must establish such goals within the time period prescribed by Code Section 162(m), and the Compensation Committee may for any reason reduce (but not increase) any award, notwithstanding the achievement of a specified goal.

The Compensation Committee may provide, at the time the performance goals are established, that any evaluation of performance shall exclude or otherwise objectively adjust for any specified circumstance or event that occurs during a performance period. Any payment of an award granted with performance goals will be conditioned on the written certification of the Compensation Committee in each case that the performance goals and any other material conditions were satisfied.

28

Treatment of Awards upon a Change of Control. Unless otherwise provided in an award agreement or any special plan document governing an award:

(A)in the vote resultsevent of a change of control of the Company in which a successor entity fails to assume and effectively implement any appropriate changes to our executive compensation policiesmaintain awards under the 2015 Incentive Plan:

all of that participant’s outstanding options and procedures;stock appreciation rights will become fully vested and exercisable, and all time-based vesting restrictions on that participant’s outstanding awards will lapse; and
   
 A three-year period between votesthe target payout opportunities attainable under outstanding performance-based awards will give stockholders sufficient timebe deemed to evaluate the effectiveness of our short-term and long-term compensation strategies and the related business outcomeshave been fully earned as of the company,change in control based upon an assumed achievement of all relevant performance goals at the “target” level, and whetherthere will be a pro rata payout to the componentsParticipant within 60 days following the change of the compensation paid to our named executive officers have achieved positive results for the company.control.

 

Our stockholders also have the opportunity to provide additional feedback on important matters involving executive compensation even in the years when say-on-pay votes do not occur. For example, the rules of the Nasdaq Stock Market require that we seek stockholder approval for new employee equity compensation plans and material revisions thereto. Further, as discussed above under “Communications by Stockholders with Directors,” we provide stockholders with an opportunity to communicate directly with our Board, including on issues of executive compensation.

You may cast your vote on your preferred voting frequency by choosing the option of three years, two years, one year, or abstain from voting when you vote in response to the resolution set forth below:

“RESOLVED, that the stockholders of Advaxis, Inc. (the “Company”) hereby approve, on an advisory basis, that the frequency with which they prefer to have a Say-on-Pay vote is:

(B)in the event of a change of control of the Company in which a successor entity assumes or otherwise equitably converts awards under the 2015 Incentive Plan, if within two years after the effective date of the change of control, a participant’s employment is terminated without Cause or the participant resigns for Good Reason (as such terms are defined in the 2015 Incentive Plan), then:

 

 Every three years;
Every two years;
Every year; or
Abstain from voting.

You are not voting to approve or disapprove our Board’s recommendation. While this advisory say-on-frequency vote is non-binding, and we may hold say-on-pay votes more or less frequently than the preference receiving the highest number of votes of our stockholders, our Board and Compensation Committee will give careful consideration to the choice that receives the most votes when considering the frequency of future say-on-pay votes.

Vote Required

Generally, approval of any matter presented to stockholders is determined by a majority of the votes cast affirmatively or negatively on the matter, assuming a quorum is present. However, given that Proposal No. 5 is advisory and non-binding, if none of the frequency options receive a majority of the votes cast, the option receiving the greatest number of votes will be considered the frequency recommended by the stockholders. In such instance, while none of the three alternatives will have been approved, stockholders will still have the ability to communicate their preference with respect to this vote.

This vote is advisory and therefore not binding on the Company or the Board. The Board and the Compensation Committee, however, will review the voting results and take them into account in making decisions regarding the frequency of stockholder votes on the compensation of executive officers.

OUR BOARD UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT AN ADVISORY

VOTE REGARDING THE COMPENSATION OF OUR NAMED EXECUTIVE

OFFICERS BE INCLUDED IN THE COMPANY’S PROXY STATEMENT

FOR STOCKHOLDER CONSIDERATION EVERY THREE CALENDAR YEARS.

PROPOSAL NO. 6

RATIFICATION OF SELECTION OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

The Audit Committee of our Board of Directors (the “Audit Committee”) annually considers and selects our independent registered public accountants. The Audit Committee has selected Marcum LLP to act as our independent registered public accountants for fiscal 2019.

Stockholder ratification of Marcum LLP as our independent registered public accountants is not required by our by-laws, or otherwise. However, we are submitting the selection of Marcum LLP to the stockholders for ratification as a matter of good corporate practice. If the stockholders do not ratify the selection of Marcum LLP as our independent registered public accountants, the Audit Committee will reconsider the selection of such independent registered public accountants. Even if the selection is ratified, the Audit Committee may, in its discretion, direct the appointment of a different independent registered public accountant at any time during the year if it determines that such a change would be in the best interest of the Company and its stockholders.

Representatives of Marcum LLP are expected to attend the Annual Meeting in order to respond to questions from stockholders and will have the opportunity to make a statement.

Vote Required

Stockholder approval of this Proposal No. 6 will require the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the votes cast in person or by proxy at the Annual Meeting. “Broker non-votes” shall be counted as votes FOR Proposal No. 6, while abstentions will count as a vote AGAINST Proposal No 6.

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS
A VOTE “FOR” PROPOSAL NO. 6 RELATING TO THE RATIFICATION
OF THE SELECTION OF MARCUM, LLP AS OUR
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS FOR FISCAL 2019.

AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT

This Audit Committee Report shall not be deemed to be “soliciting material” or to be filed with the SEC or subject to Regulation 14A or 14C under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act, or to the liabilities of Section 18 of the Exchange Act. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in any of our previous filings under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act that might incorporate future filings, including this Proxy Statement, in whole or in part, this report shall not be incorporated by reference into any such filings.

Management is responsible for our internal controls and financial reporting process. The independent registered public accounting firm is responsible for performing an independent audit of our financial statements in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) and for issuing an opinion thereon. The Audit Committee’s responsibility is to oversee these processes and our internal controls. The Audit Committee does not prepare or audit our financial statements or certify their accuracy.

In this context, the Audit Committee has met and held discussions with management and the independent registered public accounting firm. Management represented to the Audit Committee that our financial statements were prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and the Audit Committee has reviewed and discussed the audited financial statements with management and the independent registered public accounting firm. The Audit Committee has discussed with the independent registered public accounting firm the matters required to be discussed by the statement on Auditing Standards No. 61, as amended, as adopted by the PCAOB in Rule 3200T.

Our independent registered public accounting firm also provided to the Audit Committee the written disclosures and the letter required by applicable requirements of the PCAOB regarding the independent registered public accounting firm’s communications with the Audit Committee concerning independence, and the Audit Committee discussed with the independent registered public accounting firm, Marcum, LLP, the firm’s independence.

Based upon the Audit Committee’s discussions with management and the independent registered public accounting firm and the Audit Committee’s review of our audited financial statements and the representations of management, and the report of the independent registered public accounting firm to the Audit Committee, the Audit Committee recommended that the Board include the audited financial statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal 2018, as filed with the SEC.

This report is submitted by the Audit Committee.

Richard J. Berman, Chairman
Roni A. Appel
Dr. James P. Patton

Disclosure of Principal Accountant Fees and Services

In December 2012, we engaged Marcum, LLP (“Marcum”) as our independent registered public accounting firm to audit our financial statements. Beginning with the year ended October 31, 2012, Marcum has audited our financial statements. The following table presents fees for professional services rendered by Marcum for the fiscal years ended October 31, 2018 and 2017.

  Fiscal 2018  Fiscal 2017 
Audit Fees(1) $217,845  $274,511 
Tax Fees(2)  -   21,365 
All Other Fees(3)  99,395   92,025 
Total $317,240  $387,901 

(1)Audit Fees consisted primarilyall of annual audit fees, including the assessment of internal control over financial reportingthat participant’s outstanding options and reviews of the Company’s quarterly reportsstock appreciation rights will become fully vested and exercisable, and all time-based vesting restrictions on Form 10-Q.
(2)Tax Fees consisted primarily of services related to tax compliance, including the preparation, review and filing of tax returns.
(3)All Other Fees consisted primarily of services related to the review of securities registration documents and other non-audit reviews.

Policy on Audit Committee Pre-Approval of Audit and Permissible Non-Audit Services of Independent Auditors

The Audit Committee will pre-approve all auditing services and the terms thereof (which may include providing comfort letters in connection with securities underwriting) and non-audit services (other than non-audit services prohibited under Section 10A(g) of the Exchange Act or the applicable rules of the SEC or the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board) to be provided to us by the independent auditor; provided, however, the pre-approval requirement is waived with respect to the provisions of non-audit services for us if the “de minimus” provisions of Section 10A(i)(1)(B) of the Exchange Act are satisfied. This authority to pre-approve non-audit services may be delegated to one or more members of the Audit Committee, who shall present all decisions to pre-approve an activity to the full Audit Committee at its first meeting following such decision. The Audit Committee may review and approve the scope and staffing of the independent auditors’ annual audit plan.

PROPOSAL NO. 7

STOCKHOLDER PROPOSAL: ELECTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS BY A MAJORITY VOTE STANDARD

In accordance with SEC rules, we have set forth below a stockholder proposal, along with the supporting statement of the stockholder proponent, for which we and our Board accept no responsibility. The stockholder proposal is required to be voted upon only if properly presented at that Annual Meeting. As explained below, our Board makes no recommendation with regards to the stockholder proposal set forth below.

The Company has been notified that the California Public Employees’ Retirement System, P.O. Box 942707, Sacramento, California 94229-2707, the beneficial owner of at least $2,000 in market value of the Company’s common stock on the date the proposal was submitted and for at least the preceding eighteen months, intends to present the following proposal at the Annual Meeting:

RESOLVED, that the shareowners of Advaxis, Inc. (Company) hereby request that the Board of Directors initiate the appropriate process to amend the Company’s articles of incorporation and/or bylaws to provide that directors shall be elected by the affirmative vote of the majority of votes cast at an annual meeting of shareowners in uncontested elections. A plurality vote standard, however, will apply to contested director elections; that is, when the number of director nominees exceeds the number of board seats.

Supporting Statement from Stockholder:

Is accountability by the Board of Directors important to you? As a long-term stockowner of the Company, CalPERS thinks accountability is of paramount importance. This is why we are sponsoring this proposal. This proposal would remove a plurality vote standard for uncontested elections that effectively disenfranchises shareowners and eliminates a meaningful shareowner role in uncontested director elections.

Under the Company’s current voting system, a director may be elected with as little as one affirmative vote because “withheld” votes have no legal effect. This scheme deprives shareowners of a powerful tool to hold directors accountable because it makes it impossible to defeat directors who run unopposed. Conversely, a majority voting standard allows shareowners to actually vote “against” candidates and to defeat reelection of a management nominee who is unsatisfactory to the majority of shareowners who cast votes.

A substantial number of companies have already adopted this form of majority voting. More than 90% of the companies in the S&P 500 have adopted a form of majority voting for uncontested director elections. We believe Advaxis should join the growing number of companies that have adopted a majority voting standard requiring incumbent directors who do not receive a favorable majority vote to submit a letter of resignation, and not continue to serve, unless the Board declines the resignation and publicly discloses its reasons for doing so.

Majority voting in director elections empowers shareowners to clearly say “no” to unopposed directors who are viewed as unsatisfactory by a majority of shareowners casting a vote. Incumbent board members serving in a majority vote system are aware that shareowners have the ability to determine whether the director remains in office. The power of majority voting, therefore, is not just the power to effectively remove poor directors, but also the power to heighten director accountability through the threat of a loss of majority support. That is what accountability is all about.

CalPERS believes that corporate governance procedures and practices, and the level of accountability they impose; are closely related to financial performance. It is intuitive that, when directors are accountable for their actions, they perform better. We therefore ask you to join us in requesting that the Board of Directors promptly adopt the majority voting standard for uncontested director elections. We believe the Company’s shareowners will substantially benefit from the increased accountability of incumbent directors and the power to reject director shareowners believe are not acting in their best interests. Please vote FOR this proposal.

Company Response

Our stockholders currently elect directors using a plurality vote standard. Under a plurality vote standard, director nominees receiving the largest number of votes are elected as directors up to the maximum number of directors to be chosen at the election. Under the majority voting standard proposed by CalPERS, nominees would be elected in uncontested elections by a majority of votes cast, while contested elections would continue to utilize a plurality vote standard. An uncontested election is one where the number of director nominees equals the number of directors to be elected, whereas in a contested election the number of director nominees exceeds the number of available board seats.

Our Board of Directors has considered the proposal set forth above relating to majority voting for uncontested director elections, and has determined to make no voting recommendation to stockholders. The proposal, which is advisory in nature, would constitute a recommendation to the Board if approved by stockholders. The Board recognizes that there are valid arguments in favor of, and in opposition to, majority voting. The Board wants to use this proposal as an opportunity for stockholders to express their views on this subject.

Supporters of plurality voting contend, among other things, that: (1) plurality voting is the default standard for director elections under Delaware law; (2) adopting a majority voting standard would unnecessarily complicate uncontested director elections; (3) adoption of majority voting could lead to unintended consequences such as no directors being elected, the Company not being in compliance with applicable Nasdaq or SEC rules regarding independent directors or the potential loss of a person whose service the Board believes would make a valuable contribution to the Board’s oversight of Advaxis’ business and affairs; and (4) directors have the same fiduciary duties to stockholders whether they were elected by a plurality or majority vote. Supporters of a majority voting standard often make arguments such as those set forth above in the proponent’s supporting statement.

Stockholders should note that approval of this proposal would not, by itself, implement majority voting. In order to implement majority voting, the Company would need to amend its articles of organization and bylaws.

If stockholders return a validly executed proxy, the shares represented by the proxy will be voted on this proposal in the manner specified by the stockholder. If stockholders do not specify the manner in which their shares represented by a validly executed proxy solicited by the Board are to be voted on this proposal, such shares will be counted as abstentions.

Vote Required

Stockholder approval of this Proposal No. 7, if properly presented at the Annual Meeting, will require the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the votes cast in person or by proxy at the Annual Meeting. Abstentions will have the same effect as votes AGAINST Proposal No. 7. Broker non-votes will not affect the outcome of the vote on Proposal No. 7.

THE BOARD, AFTER CAREFUL CONSIDERATION, IS NOT MAKING A RECOMMENDATION EITHER IN FAVOR OF OR OPPOSED TO THIS PROPOSAL CONCERNING MAJORITY VOTING. THE BOARD LOOKS FORWARD TO RECEIVING INPUT FROM OUR STOCKHOLDERS ON THIS IMPORTANT ISSUE.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE MATTERS

Board of Directors

As of December 31, 2018, our Board includes six directors. Effective upon the election of directors at the Annual Meeting, our Board will include the following members:

NameAgePosition
Dr. David Sidransky58Chairman of our Board of Directors
Dr. James P. Patton61Vice Chairman of our Board of Directors
Roni A. Appel52Director
Kenneth Berlin54President and Chief Executive Officer, Director
Richard J. Berman76Director
Dr. Samir Khleif55Director

Current Directors

Dr. David Sidransky. Dr. Sidransky currently serves as the Chairman of our Board of Directors and has served as a member of our Board of Directors since July 2013. He is a renowned oncologist and research scientist named and profiled by TIME magazine in 2001 as one of the top physicians and scientists in America, recognized for his work with early detection of cancer. Since 1994, Dr. Sidransky has been the Director of the Head and Neck Cancer Research Division and Professor of Oncology, Otolaryngology, Genetics, and Pathology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. He has served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Champions Oncology since October 2007 and was, until the merger with Eli Lilly, a director and Vice-Chairman of ImClone Systems, Inc. He is the Chairman of Tamir Biotechnology and Ayala and serves on the Board of Directors of Galmed and Orgenesis. He has served on scientific advisory boards of MedImmune, Roche, Amgen, and Veridex, LLC (a Johnson & Johnson diagnostic company), among others. Dr. Sidransky served as Director (2005-2008) of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR). Dr. Sidransky’s experience in life science companies, as well as his scientific knowledge, qualify him to service as our director and non-executive chairman.

Dr. James P. Patton. Dr. Patton currently serves as the Vice Chairman of our Board of Directors, has served as the Chairman of our Board and has been a member of our Board of Directors since February 2002. Furthermore, Dr. Patton was the Chairman of our Board of Directors from November 2004 until December 2005, as well as a period from July 2013 until May 2015, and was our Chief Executive Officer from February 2002 to November 2002. Since February 1999, Dr. Patton has been the Vice President of Millennium Oncology Management, Inc., which is a consulting company in the field of oncology services delivery. Dr. Patton was a trustee of Dundee Wealth US, a mutual fund family, from October 2006 through September 2014. He is a founder and has been chairman of VAL Health, LLC, a health care consultancy, from 2011 to the present. In addition, he was President of Comprehensive Oncology Care, LLC since 1999, a company that owned and operated a cancer treatment facility in Exton, Pennsylvania until its sale in 2008. From February 1999 to September 2003, Dr. Patton also served as a consultant to LibertyView Equity Partners SBIC, LP, a venture capital fund based in Jersey City, New Jersey. From July 2000 to December 2002, Dr. Patton served as a director of Pinpoint Data Corp. From February 2000 to November 2000, Dr. Patton served as a director of Healthware Solutions. From June 2000 to June 2003, Dr. Patton served as a director of LifeStar Response. He earned his B.S. from the University of Michigan, his Medical Doctorate from Medical College of Pennsylvania, and his M.B.A. from Penn’s Wharton School. Dr. Patton was also a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Clinical Scholar. He has published papers regarding scientific research in human genetics, diagnostic test performance and medical economic analysis. Dr. Patton’s experience as a trustee and consultant to funds that invest in life science companies provide him with the perspective from which we benefit. Additionally, Dr. Patton’s medical experience and service as a principal and director of other life science companies make Dr. Patton particularly qualified to serve as our director and non-executive vice chairman.

Roni A. Appel. Mr. Appel has served as a member of our Board of Directors since November 2004. He was our President and Chief Executive Officer from January 1, 2006 and Secretary and Chief Financial Officer from November 2004, until he resigned as our Chief Financial Officer on September 7, 2006 and as our President, Chief Executive Officer and Secretary on December 15, 2006. From December 15, 2006 to December 2007, Mr. Appel served as a consultant to us. Mr. Appel currently is a self-employed consultant. Previously, he served as Chief Executive Officer of Anima Cell Metrology Ltd., from 2008 through January 31, 2013. From 1999 to 2004, he was a partner and managing director of LV Equity Partners (f/k/a LibertyView Equity Partners). From 1998 until 1999, he was a director of business development at Americana Financial Services, Inc. From 1994 to 1998, he was an attorney and completed his M.B.A at Columbia University. Mr. Appel’s longstanding service with us and his entrepreneurial investment career in early stage biotech businesses qualify him to serve as our director.

Kenneth Berlin.Mr. Berlin has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer and a member of our Board of Directors since April 2018. Prior to joining Advaxis, Mr. Berlin served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Rosetta Genomics since November 2009. Prior to Rosetta Genomics, Mr. Berlin was Worldwide General Manager at cellular and molecular cancer diagnostics developer Veridex, LLC, a Johnson & Johnson company. At Veridex he grew the organization to over 100 employees, launched three cancer diagnostic products, led the acquisition of its cellular diagnostics partner, and delivered significant growth in sales as Veridex transitioned from an R&D entity to a commercial provider of oncology diagnostic products and services. Mr. Berlin joined Johnson & Johnson in 1994 and served as corporate counsel for six years. From 2001 until 2004 he served as Vice President, Licensing and New Business Development in the pharmaceuticals group, and from 2004 until 2007 served as Worldwide Vice President, Franchise Development, Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics. Mr. Berlin holds an A.B. degree from Princeton University and a J.D. from the University of California Los Angeles School of Law.Mr. Berlin’s experience in life science companies, as well as his business experience in general qualify him to service as our director.

Richard J. Berman. Mr. Berman has served as a member of our Board of Directors since September 1, 2005. Richard Berman’s business career spans over 35 years of venture capital, senior management and merger and acquisitions experience. In the past 5 years, Mr. Berman has served as a director and/or officer of over a dozen public and private companies. In 2016 he was elected Chairman of Cevolva Biotech Inc. From 2014-2016, he was Chairman of MetaStat, Inc. From 2006-2011, he was Chairman of National Investment Managers, a company with $12 billion in pension administration assets. Mr. Berman also serves as a director for the public healthcare companies Catasys, Inc. and Cryoport Inc. From 2002 to 2010, he was a director at Nexmed Inc. (now Apricus Biosciences, Inc.) where he also served as Chairman/CEO in 2008 and 2009. From 1998-2000, he was employed by Internet Commerce Corporation (now Easylink Services) as Chairman and CEO and served as director from 1998-2012. Previously, Mr. Berman worked at Goldman Sachs, was Senior Vice President of Bankers Trust Company, where he started the M&A and Leveraged Buyout Departments, created the largest battery company in the world in the 1980s by merging Prestolite, General Battery and Exide to form Exide Technologies (XIDE), helped to create what is now Soho (NYC) by developing five buildings, and advised on over $4 billion of M&A transactions (completed over 300 deals). He is a past Director of the Stern School of Business of NYU where he obtained his B.S. and M.B.A. He also has US and foreign law degrees from Boston College and The Hague Academy of International Law, respectively. Mr. Berman’s extensive knowledge of our industry, his role in the governance of publicly held companies and his directorships in other life science companies qualify him to serve as our director.

Dr. Samir Khleif. Dr. Khleif has served as a member of our Board of Directors since October 2014. He currently serves as the Director of the State of Georgia Cancer Center, Georgia Regents University Cancer Center and the Cancer Service Line. Dr. Khleif was formerly Chief of the Cancer Vaccine Section at the NCI, and also served as a Special Assistant to the Commissioner of the FDA leading the Critical Path Initiative for oncology. Dr. Khleif is a Georgia Research Alliance Distinguished Cancer Scientist and Clinician and holds a professorship in Medicine, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Graduate Studies at Georgia Regents University. Dr. Khleif’s research program at Georgia Regents University Cancer Center focuses on understanding the mechanisms of cancer-induced immune suppression, and utilizing this knowledge for the development of novel immune therapeutics and vaccines against cancer. His research group designed and performed some of the first cancer vaccine clinical trials targeting specific genetic changes in cancer cells. He led many national efforts and committees on the development of biomarkers and integration of biomarkers in clinical trials, including the AACR-NCI-FDA Cancer Biomarker Collaborative and the ASCO Alternative Clinical Trial Design. Dr. Khleif is the author of many book chapters and scientific articles on tumor immunology and biomarkers process development, and he is the editor for two textbooks on cancer therapeutics, tumor immunology, and cancer vaccines. Dr. Khleif was inducted into the American Society for Clinical Investigation, received the National Cancer Institute’s Director Golden Star Award, the National Institutes of Health Award for Merit, the Commendation Medal of the US Public Health Service, and he was recently appointed to the Institute of Medicine National Cancer Policy Forum. Dr. Khleif’s distinguished career as well as his extensive expertise in vaccines and immunotherapies qualify him to serve as our director.

The Board held 8 board meetings in fiscal year 2018. Each director attended at least seventy five percent (75%) of the aggregate of: (1) the total number of Board meetings; and (2) the total number of meetings of the committee(s) of which he was a member, if any. We do not have a written policy on board attendance at annual meetings of stockholders. We will encourage, but will not require, our directors to attend the Annual Meeting.There were 5 members of the Board of Directors in attendance at the annual meeting of stockholders in 2018.

The table below describes the Board’s committees in fiscal 2018:

Director Independence

In accordance with the disclosure requirements of the SEC, we have adopted the Nasdaq listing standards for independence effective April 2010. Each of our incumbent directors is independent in accordance with the definition set forth in the Nasdaq rules. Each nominated member of each of our Board committees is an independent director under the Nasdaq standards applicable to such committees. The Board considered the information included in transactions with related parties as outlined below along with other information the Board considered relevant, when considering the independence of each director.

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee of our Board of Directors is currently composed of three directors, all of whom satisfy the independence and other standards for Audit Committee members under the Nasdaq rules and the Exchange Act, as amended. The Audit Committee is responsible for recommending the engagement of auditors to the full Board, reviewing the results of the audit engagement with the independent registered public accounting firm, identifying irregularities in the management of our business in consultation with our independent accountants, and suggesting an appropriate course of action, reviewing the adequacy, scope, and results of the internal accounting controls and procedures, reviewing the degree of independence of the auditors, as well as the nature and scope of our relationship with our independent registered public accounting firm, and reviewing the auditors’ fees. For fiscal year 2018, the Audit Committee was composed of Messrs. Berman and Appel and Dr. Patton, with Mr. Berman serving as the Audit Committee’s financial expert as defined under Item 407 of Regulation S-K of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, which we refer to as the Securities Act. The Audit Committee held 4 meetings during the most recent fiscal year.

The Audit Committee operates under a written Audit Committee Charter, which is available to stockholders on our website at http://ir.advaxis.com/corporate-governance/governance-docs.

Compensation Committee

The Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors currently consists of Mr. Berman, and Drs. Khleif and Sidransky. The Compensation Committee determines the salaries, bonuses, and incentive and equity compensation of our officers subject to applicable employment agreements, provides recommendations for the salaries and incentive compensation of our other employees and consultants, and reviews and oversees our compensation programs and policies generally. For executives other than the Chief Executive Officer, the Compensation Committee receives and considers performance evaluations and compensation recommendations submitted to the Committee by the Chief Executive Officer. In the case of the Chief Executive Officer, the evaluation of his performance is conducted by the Compensation Committee, which determines any adjustments to his compensation as well as awards to be granted. The agenda for meetings of the Compensation Committee is usually determined by its Chairman, with the assistance of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer. The Compensation Committee conducts at least five regularly scheduled meetings each year, which are regularly attended by the Chief Executive Officer. The Compensation Committee engaged Hewitt Associates LLC, operating as Aon Hewitt, a compensation consultant, in October 2018, to perform a compensation program review and market analysis, as well as provide recommendations regarding adjustments to executive officer base salaries, target bonus opportunities and long-term equity incentives. The Compensation Committee held 5 meetings during the 2018 fiscal year.

The Compensation Committee operates under a written Compensation Committee Charter, which is available to stockholders on our website at http://ir.advaxis.com/corporate-governance/governance-docs.

Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee

The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee of our Board of Directors currently consists of Mr. Berman, and Drs. Patton, Khleif and Sidransky. The functions of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee include identifying and recommending to the Board individuals qualified to serve as members of the Board and on the committees of the Board, advising the Board with respect to matters of board composition, procedures and committees, developing and recommending to the Board a set of corporate governance principles applicable to us and overseeing corporate governance matters generally including review of possible conflicts and transactions with persons affiliated with directors or members of management, and overseeing the annual evaluation of the Board and our management. The Nominating and Governance Committees held 1 meetings during the 2018 fiscal year.

The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee operates under a written Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee Charter, which is available to stockholders on our website at http://ir.advaxis.com/corporate-governance/governance-docs.

The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee will consider director candidates recommended by eligible stockholders. Stockholders may recommend director nominees for consideration by the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee by writing to the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, Attention: Chairman, Advaxis, Inc., 305 College Road East, Princeton, New Jersey, 08540. Any recommendations for director made to the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee should include the nominee’s name and qualifications for membership on our Board of Directors, and should include the following information for each person being recommended or nominated for election as a director:

The name, age, business address and residence address of the person;
The principal occupation or employment of the person;
The number of shares of our Common Stock that the person owns beneficially or of record;participant’s outstanding awards will lapse; and
   
 

Any other information relatingthe target payout opportunities attainable under outstanding performance-based awards will be deemed to have been fully earned as of the date of termination based upon an assumed achievement of all relevant performance goals at the “target” level, and there will be a pro rata payout to the person that must be disclosed in a proxy statement or other filings required to be made in connection with solicitationsParticipant within 60 days following the termination of proxies for election of directors under Section 14 of the Exchange Act and its rules and regulations.

employment.

 

Anti-dilution Adjustments. In the event of a transaction between us and our stockholders that causes the per-share value of our common stock to change (including, without limitation, any stock dividend, stock split, spin-off, rights offering or large nonrecurring cash dividend), the share authorization limits and annual award limits under the 2015 Incentive Plan will be adjusted proportionately, and the Compensation Committee shall make such adjustments to the 2015 Incentive Plan and awards as it deems necessary, in its sole discretion, to prevent dilution or enlargement of rights immediately resulting from such transaction.

Amendment and Termination of the 2015 Incentive Plan. No awards may be granted under the 2015 Incentive Plan after the tenth anniversary of the effective date of the Plan. The Board or the Compensation Committee may amend, suspend or terminate the 2015 Incentive Plan at any time, except that no amendment may be made without the approval of the Company’s stockholders if stockholder approval is required by any federal or state law or regulation or by the rules of any stock exchange on which the common stock may then be listed, or if the amendment, alteration or other change materially increases the benefits accruing to participants, increases the number of shares available under the 2015 Incentive Plan or modifies the requirements for participation under the 2015 Incentive Plan, or if the Board or Compensation Committee its discretion determines that obtaining such stockholders approval is for any reason advisable. No amendment or termination of the 2015 Incentive Plan may, without the written consent of the participant, reduce or diminish the value of an outstanding award. The Compensation Committee may amend or terminate outstanding awards at any time, except that no amendment or termination of outstanding award may, without the written consent of the participant, reduce or diminish the value of such outstanding awards.

Prohibition on Repricing. Without the prior consent of the Company’s stockholders, outstanding stock options and SARs cannot be repriced, directly or indirectly, nor may stock options or SARs be cancelled in exchanged for stock options or SARs with an exercise or base price that is less than the exercise price or base price of the original stock options or SARs. In addition, the stockholder’s notice must includeCompany may not, without the following information about such stockholder:prior approval of stockholders, repurchase an option or stock appreciation right for value from a participant if the current market value of the underlying stock is lower than the exercise price per share of the option or stock appreciation right.

 

The stockholder’s name and record address;
The number of shares of our Common Stock that the stockholder owns beneficially or of record;
A description of all arrangements or understandings between the stockholder and each proposed nominee and any other person or persons, including their names, pursuant to which the nomination is to be made;
A representation that the stockholder intends to appear in person or by proxy at the annual meeting to nominate the person or persons named in such stockholder’s notice; and
Any other information about the stockholder that must be disclosed in a proxy statement or other filings required to be made in connection with solicitations of proxies for election of directors under Section 14 of the Exchange Act and its rules and regulations.29

The notice must include

Limitations on Transfer; Beneficiaries. No right or interest of a written consent by each proposed nomineeparticipant in any award may be pledged or encumbered to being named as a nominee andor in favor of any person other than the Company, or be subject to serve as a director if elected. Noany lien, obligation or liability of the participant to any person will be eligible for election as a director of ours unless recommendedother than the Company or an affiliate. Except to the extent otherwise determined by the NominatingCommittee with respect to awards other than incentive stock options, no award may be assignable or transferable by a participant otherwise than by will or the laws of descent and Corporate Governance Committee and nominated by our Board of Directors or nominated in accordance with the procedures set forth above. Candidates proposed by stockholders for nomination are evaluated using the same criteria as candidates initially proposed by the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee.distribution.

 

We must receiveClawback Policy. Awards under the written nomination2015 Incentive Plan will be subject to any compensation recoupment policy (sometimes referred to as a “clawback policy”) of the Company as adopted from time to time.

Federal Income Tax Consequences

The U.S. federal income tax discussion set forth below is intended for an annual meetinggeneral information only and does not less than 90 dayspurport to be a complete analysis of all of the potential tax effects of the 2015 Incentive Plan. It is based upon laws, regulations, rulings and decisions now in effect, all of which are subject to change. State, local and ex-U.S. income tax consequences are not more than 120 days priordiscussed, and may vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.

Nonqualified Stock Options. There will be no federal income tax consequences to the first anniversaryoptionee or to the Company upon the grant of a nonqualified stock option under the 2015 Incentive Plan. When the optionee exercises a Nonqualified option, however, he or she will recognize ordinary income in an amount equal to the excess of the previous year’s annual meetingfair market value of stockholders,the stock received upon exercise of the option at the time of exercise over the exercise price, and the Company will be allowed a corresponding federal income tax deduction. Any gain that the optionee realizes when he or ifshe later sells or disposes of the option shares will be short-term or long-term capital gain, depending on how long the shares were held.

Incentive Stock Options. There will be no annual meetingfederal income tax consequences to the optionee or to the Company upon the grant of an incentive stock option. If the optionee holds the option shares for the required holding period of at least two years after the date the option was heldgranted and one year after exercise, then the previous yearamount equal to the excess of the amount realized upon sale or disposition of the option shares over the exercise price will be long-term capital gain or loss, and the Company will not be entitled to a federal income tax deduction. If the optionee disposes of the option shares in a sale, exchange, or other disqualifying disposition before the required holding period ends, he or she will recognize taxable ordinary income in an amount equal to the excess of the fair market value of the option shares at the time of exercise over the exercise price, and the Company will be allowed a federal income tax deduction equal to such amount. While the exercise of an incentive stock option does not result in current taxable income, the excess of the fair market value of the option shares at the time of exercise over the exercise price will be an item of adjustment for purposes of determining the optionee’s alternative minimum taxable income.

Stock Appreciation Rights. A participant receiving a stock appreciation right under the 2015 Incentive Plan will not recognize income, and the Company will not be allowed a tax deduction, at the time the award is granted. When the participant exercises the stock appreciation right, the amount of cash and the fair market value of any shares of stock received will be ordinary income to the participant and the Company will be allowed as a corresponding federal income tax deduction at that time.

Restricted Stock. Unless a participant makes an election to accelerate recognition of the income to the date of grant as described below, a participant will not recognize income, and the annual meetingCompany will not be allowed a tax deduction, at the time a restricted stock award is advanced more thangranted, provided that the award is nontransferable and is subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture. When the restrictions lapse, the participant will recognize ordinary income equal to the fair market value of the stock as of that date (less any amount he or she paid for the stock), and the Company will be allowed a corresponding federal income tax deduction at that time, subject to any applicable limitations under Code Section 162(m). If the participant files an election under Code Section 83(b) within 30 days before or delayed more than 60 days after the anniversary date we must receiveof grant of the written nomination not more than 120 days prior to the annual meeting and not less than the later of 90 days prior to the annual meetingrestricted stock, he or ten days following the day on which public announcementshe will recognize ordinary income as of the date of the annual meeting is first made. For a special meeting, we must receive the written nomination not less than the later of 90 days priorgrant equal to the special meeting or ten days following the day on which public announcementfair market value of the stock as of that date (less any amount paid for the stock), and the Company will be allowed a corresponding federal income tax deduction at that time, subject to any applicable limitations under Code Section 162(m). Any future appreciation in the stock will be taxable to the participant at capital gains rates. However, if the stock is later forfeited, the participant will not be able to recover the tax previously paid pursuant to the Code Section 83(b) election.

30

Stock Units. A participant will not recognize income, and the Company will not be allowed a tax deduction, at the time a stock unit award is granted. Upon receipt of shares of stock (or the equivalent value in cash or other property) in settlement of a stock unit award, a participant will recognize ordinary income equal to the fair market value of the special meeting is first made.stock or other property as of that date (less any amount he or she paid for the stock or property), and the Company will be allowed a corresponding federal income tax deduction at that time, subject to any applicable limitations under Code Section 162(m).

 

The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee expects, as minimum qualifications, that nominees to our Board of Directors (including incumbent directors) will enhance our Board of Director’s management, finance and/or scientific expertise,Performance Awards. A participant will not haverecognize income, and the Company will not be allowed a conflicttax deduction, at the time a performance award is granted (for example, when the performance goals are established). Upon receipt of interest andcash, stock or other property in settlement of a performance award, the participant will have a high ethical standard. A director nominee’s knowledge and/or experience in areas such as, but not limitedrecognize ordinary income equal to the medical, biotechnology,cash, stock or life sciences industry, equityother property received, and debt capital marketsthe Company will be allowed a corresponding federal income tax deduction at that time, subject to any applicable limitations under Code Section 162(m). Performance awards granted under the 2015 Incentive Plan are intended to qualify for the “performance-based compensation” exception from Code Section 162(m).

Code Section 409A. The 2015 Incentive Plan permits the grant of various types of incentive awards, which may or may not be exempt from Code Section 409A. If an award is subject to Section 409A, and financial accountingif the requirements of Section 409A are likelynot met, the taxable events as described above could apply earlier than described, and could result in the imposition of additional taxes and penalties. Restricted stock awards, stock options and stock appreciation rights granted under the 2015 Incentive Plan, are designed to be considered bothexempt from the application of Code Section 409A. Restricted stock units and performance awards granted under the 2015 Incentive Plan would be subject to Section 409A unless they are designed to satisfy the short-term deferral exemption from such law. If not exempt, such awards must be specially designed to meet the requirements of Section 409A in relationorder to avoid early taxation and penalties.

Tax Withholding. The Company has the right to deduct or withhold, or require a participant to remit to the individual’s qualificationCompany, an amount sufficient to serve on our Boardsatisfy federal, state, and local taxes (including employment taxes) required by law to be withheld with respect to any exercise, lapse of Directors and the needs of our Board of Directorsrestriction or other taxable event arising as a whole. Other characteristics, including but not limited to,result of the director nominee’s material relationships with us, time availability, service on other boards of directors and their committees, or any other characteristics that may prove relevant at any given time as determined by the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee shall be reviewed for purposes of determining a director nominee’s qualification.2015 Incentive Plan.

 

Candidates for director nomineesBenefits to Named Executive Officers and Others

Future awards under the 2015 Incentive Plan are evaluated by the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committeegranted in the contextdiscretion of the current composition of our Board of Directors, our operating requirementsCompensation Committee, and the long-term interests of our stockholders.therefore are not determinable. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee then uses its network of contacts to compile a list of potential candidates, but may also engage, if it deems appropriate, a professional search firm. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee conducts any appropriate and necessary inquiries into the backgrounds and qualifications of possible candidates after considering the function and needs of our Board of Directors. In the case of incumbent directors whose terms of office are set to expire, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee reviews such directors’ overall service to us during their term, includingfollowing table sets forth the number of meetings attended, level of participation, quality of performance,stock option, restricted stock and any other relationships and transactionsrestricted stock unit awards that might impair such directors’ independence. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee meets to discuss and consider such candidates’ qualifications and then selects a nominee for recommendationhave been granted under the 2015 Incentive Plan to our Board of Directors by majority vote. To date, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee has not paid a fee to any third party to assist in the process of identifying or evaluating director candidates.

While we do not have a formal diversity policy for Board membership, we will seek to ensure that its membership consists of sufficiently diverse backgrounds, meaning a mix of backgrounds and experiences that will enhance the quality of the Board’s deliberations and decisions. In considering candidates for the Board, the independent directors will consider, among other factors, diversity with respect to viewpoints, skills, experience and other demographics.

Research and Development Committee

The Research and Development Committee was established in August 2013 with the purpose of providing advice and guidance to the Board on scientific and medical matters and development. The Research and Development Committee currently consists of Drs. Sidransky, Khleif and Patton. The functions of the Research and Development Committee include providing advice and guidance to the Board on scientific matters and providing advice and guidance to the Board on medical matters.The Research and Development Committee did not meet during the 2018 fiscal year.

Board Leadership Structure

On May 27, 2015, David Sidransky was appointed Chairman and continues to serve as Chairman. Dr. Sidransky’s experience in life science companies, as well as his scientific knowledge, his history with our Company and his own history of innovation and strategic thinking, qualify him to serve as our Chairman. Additionally, on April 23, 2018, Kenneth Berlin was appointed President and ChiefNamed Executive Officer and named a member of the Board of Directors. Mr. Berlin’s knowledge of industry standards and his experience in industry operations, and his leadership experience complements Dr. Sidransky’s scientific knowledge.

While we do not have a formal policy regarding the separation of our principal executive officer and chairman of our Board, we believe the current structure is in the best interest of the Company at this time. Further, this structure demonstrates to our employees, customers and stockholders that we are under strong leadership, with multiple skills and sets the tone for managing our operations. This leadership structure promotes strategic development and execution, timely decision-making and effective management of our resources. We believe that we are well-served by this structure.

Risk Oversight

The Board has an active role in overseeing our risk management and is responsible for discussing with managementOfficers (as defined below) and the independent auditors our major financial risk exposures, the guidelinesother individuals and policies by which risk assessment and management is undertaken, and the steps management has taken to monitor and control risk exposure. The Board regularly engages in discussions of the most significant risks that we are facing and how those risks are being managed. The Board believes that its work and the work of the Chairman and the principal executive officer, enables the Board to effectively oversee our risk management function.

Stockholder Communications to the Board

Stockholders may contact an individual director, the Board as a group, or a specified Board committee or group, including the non-employee directors as a group, by writing to the following address:

Advaxis, Inc.
305 College Road East
Princeton, New Jersey 08540
Attn: Board of Directors

Each communication should specify the applicable addressee or addressees to be contacted as well as the general topic of the communication. We will initially receive and process communications before forwarding them to the addressee. We generally will not forward to the directors a stockholder communication that we determine to be primarily commercial in nature or relates to an improper or irrelevant topic, or that requests general information about us.

Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance

Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act, requires our directors and executive officers and each person who owns more than ten percent of a registered class of our equity securities (collectively, “Reporting Persons”) to file with the SEC initial reports of ownership and reports of changes in ownership of our Common Stock and our other equity securities. Reporting Persons are required by SEC regulation to furnish us with copies of all Section 16(a) forms that they file. Based solely on the Company’s review of the copies of the forms received by itgroups indicated during the fiscal year ended October 31, 20182020.

Name and Position Stock Option  Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units 
Ken Berlin, President and Chief Executive Officer and Interim Chief Financial Officer    171,333   5,555 
Andres Gutierrez, Chief Medical Officer    100,000   - 
All Current Named Executive Officers as a Group    271,333   5,555 
All Employees as a Group (Including Officers who are not Named Executive Officers)    1,017,324   5,556 
All Nonexecutive Directors as a Group    745,991   1 

Vote Required

To be approved, Annual Award Limit Proposal must receive “FOR” votes from a majority of the shares present in person or represented by proxy at the Annual Meeting and written representations that no other reports were required,entitled to vote on the Company believes that each person who, at any time during such fiscal year, wassubject matter. If a Reporting Person complied with all Section 16(a) filing requirements during such fiscal year.quorum is present, broker non-votes will not affect the outcome of the vote on the Annual Award Limit Proposal, while abstentions will have the same practical effect as a vote “AGAINST” the Annual Award Limit Proposal.

 

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation

Currently, the Compensation Committee consists of Drs. Patton, Khleif and Sidransky. No member of the Compensation Committee was an officer or employee of the Company during the last fiscal year, or had any relationship with the Company requiring disclosure under Item 404 of Regulation S-K. No executive officer of the Company served as a member of the board of directors or compensation committee of another entity, one of whose executive officers served on the Company’s Compensation Committee orThe Board of Directors.

Certain Relationships and Related TransactionsDirectors unanimously recommends a vote “FOR” the Annual Award Limit Proposal.

Our policy is to enter into transactions with related parties on terms that, on the whole, are no more favorable, or no less favorable, than those available from unaffiliated third parties. Based on our experience in the business sectors in which we operate and the terms of our transactions with unaffiliated third parties, we believe that all transactions that we enter will meet this policy standard at the time they occur. Presently, we have no such related party transactions.

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management

Except as noted below, the following table sets forth certain information with respect to the beneficial ownership of our Common Stock as of December 15, 2018:

each person who is known by us to be the beneficial owner of more than 5% of our outstanding Common Stock;
each of our directors;
each of our named executive officers and current executive officers; and
all of our current directors and executive officers as a group.

As used in the table below, the term beneficial ownership with respect to our Common Stock consists of sole or shared voting power (which includes the power to vote, or to direct the voting of shares of our Common Stock) or sole or shared investment power (which includes the power to dispose, or direct the disposition of, shares of our Common Stock) through any contract, arrangement, understanding, relationship or otherwise, including a right to acquire such power(s) during the 60 days following December 15, 2018.

Unless otherwise indicated in the footnotes to this table, and subject to community property laws where applicable, we believe each of the stockholders named in this table has sole voting and investment power with respect to the shares indicated as beneficially owned. Applicable percentages are based on 69,619,886 shares of Common Stock outstanding as of December 26, 2018, adjusted as required by the rules promulgated by the SEC. Unless otherwise indicated, the address for each of the individuals and entities listed in this table is 305 College Road East, Princeton, New Jersey 08540.

Name of Beneficial Owner Total # of
Shares
Beneficially
Owned
  Percentage of
Ownership
 
Kenneth Berlin (1)  348,333   *%
David Sidransky (2)  230,360   *%
Roni Appel (3)  302,345   *%
Richard Berman (4)  176,536   *%
Samir Khleif (5)  221,253   *%
James Patton (6)  410,612   *%
Andres Gutierrez (7)  -   -%
Molly Henderson (8)  5,000   *%
Robert Petit (9)  519,698   *%
Anthony Lombardo (10)  171,622   *%
Sara Bonstein (11)  580,773   *%
Thomas McKearn (12)  196,204   *%
Thomas Ridge (13)  164,305   *%
All Current Directors and Officers as a Group (9 People)  2,130,804   3.01%

 

2731

 

*Less than 1%

(1)Represents 15,000 issued shares of our Common Stock, 83,333 restricted stock units vesting in the next 60 days, and options to purchase 250,000 shares of our Common Stock exercisable within 60 days.EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICER COMPENSATION

 

(2)Represents 110,360 issued shares of our Common Stock and options to purchase 120,000 shares of our Common Stock exercisable within 60 days.

(3)Represents 157,145 issued shares of our Common Stock, options to purchase 116,867 shares of our Common Stock exercisable within 60 days and warrants to purchase 28,333 shares of our Common Stock exercisable within 60 days.

(4)Represents 55,669 issued shares of our Common Stock and options to purchase 120,867 shares of our Common Stock exercisable within 60 days.

(5)Represents 69,586 issued shares of our Common Stock and options to purchase 151,667 shares of our Common Stock exercisable within 60 days.

(6)Represents 286,745 issued shares of our Common Stock and options to purchase 123,867 shares of our Common Stock exercisable within 60 days.

(7)To date, the named executive officer has not had a vesting of restricted stock units or stock options occur.

(8)Represents 5,000 issued shares of our Common Stock.

(9)Represents 192,843 issued shares of our Common Stock and options to purchase 326,855 shares of our Common Stock exercisable within 60 days.

(10)Represents 71,622 issued shares of our Common Stock and options to purchase 100,000 shares of our Common Stock exercisable within 60 days as reported on Form 4.

(11)Represents 200,008 issued shares of our Common Stock and options to purchase 380,765 shares of our Common Stock exercisable within 60 days as reported on Form 4.

(12)Represents 69,804 issued shares of our Common Stock and options to purchase 126,400 shares of our Common Stock exercisable within 60 days as reported on Form 4.

(13)Represents 24,305 issued shares of our Common Stock and options to purchase 140,000 shares of our Common Stock exercisable within 60 days as reported on Form 4.

(14)Represents 892,348 issued shares of our Common Stock and options to purchase 1,210,123 shares of our Common Stock exercisable within 60 days and warrants to purchase 28,333 shares of our Common Stock exercisable within 60 days.

Executive Officers

 

The following table provides information on our current executive officers.

 

Name Age Position
Kenneth Berlin 5456 President and Chief Executive Officer
Molly Henderson47 and Interim Chief Financial Officer Executive Vice President and Corporate Secretary
Robert G. Petit59Chief Scientific Officer and Executive Vice President
Andres Gutierrez 5860 Chief Medical Officer and Executive Vice President
Igor Gitelman45Chief Accounting Officer, VP of Finance

 

Kenneth Berlin.Mr. Berlin’s biography appears on page 21.

28

Molly Henderson. Ms. Henderson was appointed as our Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President and Corporate Secretary in June 2018. Prior to assuming her position at Advaxis, Ms. Henderson was a freelance consultant, as well as the Chairman and partial owner of WUJU, LLC, a consumer products company, from August 2016 to June 2018. Prior to that,Ms. Henderson was Chief Financial Officer at Iovance Biotherapeutics, Inc. (formerly Lion Biotechnologies, Inc.) from June 2015 through August 2016.Ms. Henderson also served as the Chief Business and Financial Officer, Senior Vice President of VirtualScopics, Inc., a public company provider of imaging solutions to the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device industries, from May 2008 to August 2013, and as that company’s Chief Financial Officer from May 2003 to May 2008. From 2013 to 2015, Ms. Henderson relocated her family to Europe, during which time Ms. Henderson advised start-up companies in Switzerland. Earlier in her career, Ms. Henderson served as the Corporate Controller of Ultralife, Inc., a publicly-held provider of high performance lithium battery solutions. Prior to Ultralife, Ms. Henderson was a Manager in the audit division of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. Ms. Henderson received her M.B.A. and B.S. degrees from the State University of New York at Buffalo.9.

 

Robert G. Petit, Ph.DAndres Gutierrez.. Dr. Petit joined Advaxis in October 2010 and currently serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Scientific Officer, a position he has held since May 2013. Prior to serving as our Chief Scientific Officer, Dr. Petit served as our Vice President of Clinical Operations and Medical Affairs since October 2010. Dr. Petit has over 20 years of experience in all medical and scientific aspects of pharmaceutical development. He has led programs in discovery, translational development and intellectual property development and has designed and conducted U.S. and international clinical evaluation programs from phase I to IV. Dr. Petit joined Advaxis from Bristol Myers Squibb where he was the U.S. Medical Strategy Lead for the Ipilimumab program, Director of Medical Strategy for New Oncology Products, and Director of Global Clinical Research. Prior to joining Bristol Myers-Squibb, Robert served as Vice President of Clinical Development at MGI Pharma and also at Aesgen Inc. His scientific focus has been to develop immunologic based therapies with a particular emphasis on immunologic oncology treatment. Robert has had significant FDA experience and has contributed to five NDA/BLA filings. Dr. Petit has a Doctorate from the Ohio State University College of Medicine and a B.S. from Indiana State University.

Andres Gutierrez, M.D., Ph.D.Dr. Gutierrez has served as our Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer since April 2018. Prior to joining Advaxis, Dr. Gutierrezserved as Chief Medical Officer for Oncolytics Biotech, Inc. from November 2016 to April 2018. Prior to Oncolytics, Dr. Gutierrez was Chief Medical Officer at SELLAS Life Sciences Group from November 2015 to September 2016 and was Medical Director, Early Development Immuno-Oncology at Bristol-Myers Squibb from October 2012 to November 2015, where he oversaw the development of translational and clinical development of immuno-oncology programs in solid tumors and hematological malignancies. Earlier, Dr. Gutierrez was Medical Director for several biotechnology companies, including Sunesis Pharmaceuticals, BioMarin Pharmaceutical, Proteolix and Oculus Innovative Sciences, leading key programs with talazoparib and carfilzomib, among others. Prior to Oculus, he served as Director of the Gene & Cell Therapy Unit at the National Institutes of Health in Mexico City and as a consultant physician at the Hospital Angeles del Pedregal.

Igor Gitelman. Mr. Gitelman has served as the Company’s Chief Accounting Officer since February 2021 and as the Company’s VP of Finance since November 2020. Before joining the Company, Mr. Gitelman served as CFO Executive Financial Consultant for Accu Reference Medical Labs, a clinical diagnostic laboratory. Before that, from February 2017 through November 2018, Mr. Gitelman served as a chief accounting officer of Cancer Genetics, Inc., a drug discovery, preclinical oncology, and immuno-oncology services company. Prior to that, Mr. Gitelman served as an Assistant to Vice President (AVP) of Finance and Tax at clinical diagnostic laboratory, BioReference Laboratories, Inc., from October 2005 to October 2016. During this time at BioReference Laboratories, Inc., Mr. Gitelman held various positions of increasing responsibility managing the company’s internal audit function, SEC financial reporting, tax and corporate finance functions.

 

COMPENSATION OF OFFICERS AND DIRECTORSExecutive Compensation

 

The following table summarizes allsets forth the compensation of our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, and our “named executive officers,” for each of the last two fiscal years (endingended October 31, 2018) awarded to, earned by or paid to our named executive officers.2020 and 2019:

 

Summary Compensation Table

 

Name and Principal Position Fiscal
Year
  Salary  Bonus
(1)
  Stock
Award(s)(2)
  Option
Award(s)
(3)
  All Other
Compensation
(4)
  Total 
                      
Kenneth Berlin  2018   250,000   177,353   405,000   945,000   20,103   1,797,456 
President, Chief Executive Officer  2017   -   -   -   -   -   - 
                             
Molly Henderson  2018   119,712   62,205   -   335,000   4,954   524,871 
Executive VP, Chief Financial Officer  2017   -   -   -   -   -   - 
                             
Robert G. Petit  2018   397,385   40,000   -   250,000   43,305   730,690 
Executive VP, Chief Scientific Officer  2017   376,718   96,000   980,665   438,242   52,349   1,943,974 
                             
Anthony Lombardo (5)  2018   223,923   125,000   -   250,000   368,875   967,405 
Former Interim Chief Executive Officer  2017   177,500   184,000   840,410   -   146   1,202,056 
                             
Sara M. Bonstein (6)  2018   213,346   100,000   210,146   250,000   221,916   995,408 
Former Executive VP, Chief Financial Officer  2017   377,569   96,000   1,338,665   438,242   47,402   2,297,878 
Name and Principal Position Fiscal
Year
  Salary  Bonus
(1)
  Stock
Award(s)
  Option
Award(s)
(2)
  All Other
Compensation
(3)
  Total 
                      
Kenneth Berlin (4) 2020  $554,320  $554,320         -  $26,000  $53,809  $1,188,449 
President, Chief Executive Officer, Interim Chief Financial Officer 2019  $551,750  $240,000   -  $146,398  $45,588  $983,736 
                            
Molly Henderson (4) 2020  $369,163  $-   -  $26,000  $18,593  $413,756 
Executive VP, Chief Financial Officer 2019  $397,896  $120,000   -  $58,498  $20,052  $596,446 
                            
Andres Gutierrez (4) 2020  $426,130  $170,560   -  $26,000  $27,575  $650,265 
Senior VP, Chief Medical Officer 2019  $424,423  $120,000   -  $58,498  $24,346  $627,267 

32

 

(1)Represents annual incentive bonuses for services performed during fiscal 2020 and fiscal 2019, which in each case were paid in the following fiscal year. In Fiscal Year 2018,fiscal 2020, the NEOs elected to forgo their targetreceived bonuses in the amount of 10% of their base salary, pro rated based on the individual’s start date with the Company.approximating 100% for Mr. Berlin and 0% for Ms. Henderson’s bonus representsHenderson and 40% for Dr. Gutierrez. In fiscal 2019, the annual incentive bonus as well as a one-time bonusNEOs received bonuses approximating 43% for a successful completionMr. Berlin and 30% for Ms. Henderson and 28% for Dr. Gutierrez. These bonuses reflect achievement of a capital raise.corporate goals and objectives for fiscal 2020 and fiscal 2019, respectively.
 
(2)Reflects the aggregate grant date fair value of restricted stock units determined in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. Grant date fair value for RSUs with time-based vesting is based on the closing price of our common stock on the date of grant. Grant date fair value for the performance-based RSUs is based on the closing price of our common stock on the date of grant and the probable outcome of performance-based conditions at the time of grant, excluding the effect of estimated forfeitures. Due to an acceleration of vesting on Ms. Bonstein’s resignation date, there was an expense modification to Ms. Bonstein’s stock awards. The ASC 718 impact of the modification is reflected in Ms. Bonstein’s stock award.
(3)Reflects the aggregate grant date fair value of stock options determined in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. The assumptions used in determining the grant date fair values of the stock options are set forth in the notesNote 7 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements, which are included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended October 31, 2018 filed with the SEC.statements.
 
(4)(3) All Other Compensation is more fully described in the table under “All Other Compensation – Supplemental” below.
 
(5)(4) Mr. Lombardo resigned fromBerlin and Mr. Gutierrez began their employment with the Company as the CEO and the CMO, respectively, in April 2018. Ms. Henderson began her employment as the Company’s CFO in June 2018 and resigned effective September 25, 2020. Mr. Berlin was appointed as of April 23, 2018.
(6)Interim Chief Financial Officer following Ms. Bonstein resigned from the Company effective as of May 1, 2018.Henderson’s resignation.

All Other Compensation – Supplemental

 

  Health
Insurance
Premiums
  Reimbursement
of Taxes
  Matching
Contributions
to 401(k) Plan
  Severence  Other  Total 
Name $  $  $  $  $  $ 
Kenneth Berlin  10,367   -   9,240   -   496   20,103 
Molly Henderson  -   -   4,629   -   325   4,954 
Robert Petit  14,899   14,981   10,767   -   3,259   43,905 
Sara Bonstein  23,694   33,859   5,180   150,000   977   213,710 
Tony Lombardo  -   24,395   -   355,000   3,034   382,429 
  

Fiscal

  Health Insurance Premiums  Life and AD&D Insurance  Matching Contributions to 401(k) Plan  Other  Total 
Name and Principal Position Year  $  $  $  $  $ 
                   
Kenneth Berlin 2020   26,402   5,568   21,239   600   53,809 
President, Chief Executive Officer 2019   23,348   998   21,242   -   45,588 
                        
Molly Henderson 2020   2,769   510   14,760   554   18,593 
Executive VP, Chief Financial Officer 2019   3,115   998   15,939   -   20,052 
                        
Andres Gutierrez 2020   26,399   576   -   600   27,575 
Senior VP, Chief Medical Officer 2019   23,348   998   -   -   24,346 

 

Employment Agreements with Named Executive Officers

 

The Company appointed Mr. Berlin as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective April 23, 2018. The Company and Mr. Berlin entered into an employment agreement, effective April 23, 2018, which provides for an initial three-year term, after which it will be automatically renewed for one year periods, unless otherwise terminated by either party upon ninety (90) daysdays’ written notice. The employment agreement provides that Mr. Berlin will receive a base salary of $520,000$554,320 per year, as adjusted for annual increases by the Compensation Committee since entry of the agreement, and he is eligible for an annual bonus targeted at 55% of his base salary based on achievement of performance goals in the discretion of the Compensation Committee. Mr. Berlin also received a one-time lump-sum bonus equal to $150,000 that was paid within fifteen (15) days following the effective date of the agreement. Mr. Berlin also received 750,00050,000 stock options and 250,00016,667 restricted stock units (both as adjusted to account for our 1 for 15 reverse stock split effective March 29, 2019), which vest in equal installmentsinstalments over the first three years of his employment. In May 2020, Mr. Berlin received an additional 50,000 stock options, which vest in equal instalments of 16,667 options on the first three anniversary dates of the grant.

33

 

The Company appointed Ms. Henderson as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, effective June 6, 2018.2018 and she resigned effective September 25, 2020. The Company and Ms. Henderson entered into an employment agreement, effective June 6, 2018, which providesprovided for an initial three-year term, after which it will be automatically renewed for one year periods, unless otherwise terminated by either party upon ninety (90) daysdays’ written notice. The employment agreement providesprovided that Ms. Henderson willwould receive a base salary of $375,000$399,750 per year, as adjusted for annual increases by the Compensation Committee since entry of the agreement, and eligible for an annual bonus based on achievement of performance goals atin the discretion of the Compensation Committee. On June 6, 2018, Ms. Henderson also received 250,00016,667 stock options (as adjusted to account for our 1 for 15 reverse stock split effective March 29, 2019), which vest annually on the first three anniversaries of her employment. In November 2018 and in October 2019 Ms Henderson received 8,333 and 25,000 stock options respectively which vest in three equal annual instalments each. In May 2020, Ms. Henderson received an additional 50,000 stock options, which vest in equal annual instalments of 16,667 options on the first three anniversary dates of the grant. Following Ms. Henderson’s resignation from the Company, which was effective September 25, 2020, all of Ms. Henderson’s options, expired unexercised.

 

The Company appointed Mr. Gutierrez as Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer, , effective April 23, 2018. The Company and Mr. Gutierrez entered into an employment agreement, effective April 23, 2018, which provides for an initial three-year term, after which it will be automatically renewed for one year periods, unless otherwise terminated by either party upon ninety (90) daysdays’ written notice. The employment agreement provides that Mr. Gutierrez will receive a base salary of $400,000$426,400 per year, as adjusted for annual increases by the Compensation Committee since entry of the agreement, and eligible for an annual bonus based on achievement of performance goals at the discretion of the Compensation Committee. Mr. Gutierrez also received a one-time lump-sum bonus equal to $40,000 that was paid within the first ninety (90) days following the effective date of the agreement. Mr. Gutierrez also received 250,00016,667 stock options (as adjusted to account for our 1 for 15 reverse stock split effective March 29, 2019), which vest annually on the first three anniversaries of his employment as an equity incentive award.

The Company previously entered into employment agreement with In May 2020, Mr. Petit,Gutierrez received an additional 50,000 stock options, which provide for an initial one-year term, after which they will be automatically renewed for one year periods, unless otherwise terminated by either party upon ninety (90) days written notice. Effective January 1, 2018,vest in equal installments of 16,667 options on the employment agreements provide that the named executive officers are entitled to a 2018 base salary of $400,000 for Mr. Petit (in each case, subject to annual cost-of-living adjustments), which will be reviewed on an annual basis.

Mr. Petit is eligible to receive an annual incentive bonus, with a target bonus opportunity equal to 40% of base salary. The actual amount of bonus earned, if any, will be determined by the Compensation Committee based on achievement of pre-established performance goals. In addition, eachfirst three anniversary dates of the named executive officers is eligible to participate in the Company’s benefit plans, and is entitled to vacation, sick leave and reimbursement of reasonable business expenses.grant.

 

In the event the named executive officer’s employment is terminated without Just Cause, or if the executive voluntarily resigns with Good Reason, or if the named executive officer’s employment is terminated due to disability (all as defined in thetheir respective employment agreement)agreements), and so long as the named executive officer executes a confidential separation and release agreement, in addition to the applicable base salary, plus any accrued but unused vacation time and unpaid expenses that have been earned as of the date of such termination, the named executive officer is entitled to the following severance benefits: (i) twelve months of base salary payable in in equal monthly installments, (in the case of Mr. Berlin, Ms. Henderson, Mr. Gutierrez and Mr. Petit), (ii) a bonus payment for the year in which the employment is terminated equal to the target bonus percentage, multiplied by the base salary in effect at the time of termination, (in the case for Mr. Berlin, Ms. Henderson, and Mr. Gutierrez), the target bonus will be pro rated for Mr. Petit, (iii) continued health and welfare benefits for 12 months, and (iv) full vesting of all stock options and stock awards (with extension of the exercise period for stock options by two years).

In the event Mr. Berlin’s employment is terminated without Just Cause during the period beginning 3 months prior to a Change in Control (as defined in Mr. Berlin’s employment agreement) and ending 18 months after the Change in Control (such period, the “CIC Protection Period”), or if Mr. Berlin voluntarily resigns with Good Reason, during the CIC Protection Period, and provided that Mr. Berlin continues to comply with certain covenants set forth in his employment agreement, in addition to the applicable base salary and any earned but unpaid bonus for the prior fiscal year, plus any accrued but unused vacation time and unpaid expenses that have been earned as of the date of such termination, Mr. Berlin is entitled to the following severance benefits: (i) an amount equal to 1.75 times the sum of the applicable base salary plus an amount equal to Mr. Berlin’s target bonus, payable in a single lump sum within sixty (60) days of the termination, (ii) a bonus payment for the year in which the employment is terminated equal to the target bonus percentage, multiplied by the base salary in effect at the time of termination, multiplied by a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of calendar days Mr. Berlin was employed during such year and the denominator is 365, (iii) continued health and welfare benefits for 21 months, and (iv) full vesting and exercisability of all stock options and stock awards.

The named executive officer employment agreements contain customary covenants regarding non-solicitation, non-compete, confidentiality and works for hire.

 

Outstanding Equity Awards at 2018 Fiscal Year-End

34

 

The following table summarizes all outstanding equity awards held by our named executive officers at fiscal year-end. The market or payout value of unearned shares, units or rights that have not vested equals $0.56, which was the closing price of Advaxis’ common shares on Nasdaq on October 31, 2018 and for performance based restricted stock units presumes that the target performance goals are met.

 

Name Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Exercisable
  Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Unexercisable
  Option
Exercise
Price ($)
  Option
Expiration
Date
 Number of
Shares or
Units of Stock
That Have Not
Vested (#)
  Value of
Shares or
Units of Stock
That Have Not
Vested ($)
 
Kenneth Berlin  -   750,000 (1)  1.62  04/23/2028  250,000 (6)  140,000 
                       
Molly Henderson  -   250,000 (2)  1.71  06/06/2028  -   - 
                       
Robert Petit  8,000   -   13.75  10/11/2020  57,654 (7)  32,286 
   14,400   -   18.50  11/08/2021  19,066 (8)  10,677 
   18,000   -   9.38  03/13/2023  -   - 
   15,546   -   13.44  03/30/2025  -   - 
   46,639   -   13.44  03/30/2025  -   - 
   96,667   48,333 (3)  12.81  11/05/2025  -   - 
   22,969   45,937 (4)  7.71  11/03/2026  -   - 
   -   100,000 (5)  3.19  11/02/2027  -   - 
                       
Anthony Lombardo  100,000   -   3.19  05/31/2020  -   - 
                       
Sara Bonstein  22,969   -   7.71  05/01/2018  -   - 
   106,666   -   12.81  05/01/2018  -   - 
   62,782   -   13.44  05/01/2018  -   - 
   188,348   -   13.44  05/01/2018  -   - 

(1) Of these options, one-third will vest on December 31, 2018, one-third will vest on April 23, 2020, and the award will be fully vested on April 23, 2021.
(2)Of these options, one-third will vest on June 6, 2019, one-third will vest on June 6, 2020, and the award will be fully vested on June 6, 2021.
(3)Of these options, one-third vested on November 5, 2016, one-third vested on November 5, 2017, and the award will be fully vested on November 5, 2018.
(4)Of these options, one-third vested on November 3, 2017, one-third will vest on November 3, 2018, and the award will be fully vested on November 2, 2019.
(5)Of these options, one-third will vest on November 2, 2018, one-third will vest on November 2, 2019, and the award will be fully vested on November 2, 2020.
(6)Represents restricted stock units granted to Mr. Berlin as an inducement award on April 23, 2018. The award vests over three years with one-third vesting on December 31, 2018, one-third vesting on April 23, 2020, and the award will be fully vested on April 23, 2021.
(7)Represents unvested restricted stock units granted as a performance-based and time-vesting awards on May 1, 2017. The award vests in three equal annual installments beginning on November 1, 2017 and will be fully vested on November 1, 2019.
(8)Represents unvested restricted stock units granted as a performance-based award on November 3, 2016. The award vests in three equal annual installments beginning on November 3, 2017 and will be fully vested on November 3, 2019.

Retirement Benefits

The Company provides retirement income to its employees, including Executives, through a 401(k) plan, where participants may elect to contribute a portion of their salary to the plan, and the Company provides matching contributions on employees’ contribution up to 4 percent of base salary.

Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change-in-Control

 

Termination of Employment

 

As described above under “Employment Agreements with Named Executive Officers,” the Company has entered into employment agreements with each of the named executive officers that provide for certain severance payments and benefits in the event the named executive officer’s employment with the Company is terminated under certain circumstances. In addition, the Company has adopted the Advaxis, Inc. Change in Control Plan, which provides for certain enhanced severance payments and benefits in the event a participating executive officer’s employment with the Company is terminated under certain circumstances, as described below.

Under the Change in Control Plan, if an executive officer’s employment is terminated by the Company without Cause or by the executive officer for Good Reason (as such terms are defined in the plan) during the period beginning three months prior to or 18 months following a Change in Control of the Company (as defined in the plan), then the executive officer will be entitled to a cash severance payment in an amount equal to the sum of (a) a pro rata target annual bonus, plus (b) the product of 1.5, in the case of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, or 1.0, in the case of the Company’s other executive officers, multiplied by the sum of the executive’s base salary and his or her target annual bonus. In addition, the executive officer will be entitled to continued coverage at no cost to the executive under the Company’s group health and welfare plans for period of 18 months, in the case of the Chief Executive Officer, or 12 months, in the case of the other executive officers.

 

In addition, upon a Change in Control of the Company, unvested equity awards held by an executive officer will be accelerated as follows: (i) outstanding stock options and other awards in the nature of rights that may be exercised shall become fully vested and exercisable, (ii) time-based restrictions on restricted stock, restricted stock units and other equity awards shall lapse and the awards shall become fully vested, and (iii) performance-based equity awards, if any, shall become vested and shall be deemed earned based on an assumed achievement of all relevant performance goals at “target” levels, and shall payout pro rata to reflect the portion of the performance period that had elapsed prior to the Change in Control.

 

To receive any severance benefits under the Plan, a participant must execute a general release of claims against the Company. In addition, participants in the Plan are subject to restrictive covenants, including non-competition, non-solicitation and confidentiality provisions, during their employment and for a period of 12 months following their termination of employment.

The table below shows the estimated value of benefits to each of the named executive officers if their employment had been terminated under various circumstances as of October 31, 2018.2020. The amounts shown in the table exclude accrued but unpaid base salary, unreimbursed employment-related expenses, accrued but unpaid vacation pay, and the value of equity awards that were vested by their terms as of October 31, 2018.2020.

 

 Involuntary
Termination
without a
Change in
Control ($)
 Involuntary
Termination in
connection with
a Change in
Control ($)
 Death
($)
 Disability ($)  Term for Cause;
Voluntary
Resignation ($)
  Involuntary Termination without a Change in Control
($)
  Involuntary Termination in connection with a Change in Control
($)
  Death
($)
  Disability ($)  Termination for Cause; Voluntary Resignation
($)
 
                      
Kenneth Berlin                                              
Cash severance  520,000 (1)  1,410,500 (5)  -   520,000 (1)          -   554,320(1)  1,503,593(5)  -   554,320(1)  - 
Pro rata bonus  286,000 (2)  286,000(2)  286,000 (2)  286,000 (2)  - 
Health benefits  24,970 (3)  44,424(6)  -   24,970 (3)  - 
Value of equity Acceleration  140,000 (4)  140,000(4)  140,000(4)  140,000 (4)  - 
Total  970,970   1,880,335   426,000   970,970   - 
                 
Molly Henderson                 
Cash severance  375,000(1)  375,000(5)  -   375,000 (1)  - 
Pro rata bonus  150,000(2)  150,000(2)  150,000(2)  150,000 (2)  - 
Health benefits  336(3)  336(6)  -   336 (3)  - 
Value of equity Acceleration  -(4)  -   -   - (4)  - 
Total  525,336   525,336   150,000   525,336   - 
                 
Robert Petit                 
Cash severance  400,000(1)  400,000(5)  -   400,000 (1)  - 
Pro rata bonus  160,000(2)  160,000(2)  -   160,000 (2)  - 
Bonus  304,876(7)  304,876(2)  304,876(2)  304,876(7)  - 
Health benefits  22,502(3)  22,502(6)  -   22,796 (3)  -   30,335(3)  53,087(6)  -   30,335(3)  - 
Value of equity Acceleration  42,963(4)  42,963(4)  42,963(4)  42,963 (4)  -   2,344(4)  2,344(4)  2,344(4)  2,344(4)  - 
Total  625,465   625,465   42,963   625,760   -   891,875   1,863,900   307,220   891,875   - 
                                     
Andres Gutierrez                                     
Cash severance  400,000(1)  400,000(5)  -   400,000 (1)  -   426,130(1)  426,130(1)  -   426,130(1)  - 
Pro rata bonus  160,000(2)  160,000(2)  160,000(2)  160,000 (2)  - 
Bonus  170,452(7)  170,452(7)  170,452(7)  170,452(7)  - 
Health benefits  22,382(3)  22,382(6)  -   22,382 (3)  -   30,318(3)  30,318(6)  -   30,318(3)  - 
Value of equity Acceleration  -(4)  -   -   - (4)  -   233(4)  233(4)  233(4)  233(4)  - 
Total  582,382   582,382   160,000   582,382   -   627,133   627,133   170,685   627,133   - 

 

 (1)Reflects severance payment equal to one times base salary payable in equal monthly installmentsinstalments for 12 months.
   
 (2)Reflects pro rata bonus determined by multiplying the target bonus amount for the year in which the termination occurs by a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of calendar days the executive is employed during such year and the denominator of which is 365. Because the amounts reflected in the table assume the named executive officer’s employment was terminated on October 31, 2020 (the last day of the 2020 fiscal year), the amounts reflected are not pro-rated.
   
 (3)Reflects the Company’s cost of continued health coverage at active employee rates for 12 months.

35

 (4)Reflects the value of unvested in-the-money stock options and RSUs that vest upon the designated event.
   
 (5)For Mr. Berlin, reflects 1.75 times the sum of his base salary and target bonus, payable in equal monthly installments for 21 months. For the other named executive officers, equals one times base salary, payable in equal monthly installments for 12 months.
   
 (6)Reflects the full cost of continued health coverage for 21 months for Mr. Berlin and 12 months for the other named executive officers.
(7)Represents a bonus payment equal to the executive’s target bonus.

 

Director CompensationOutstanding Equity Awards at 2020 Fiscal Year-End

 

For fiscal year 2018, non-employee directors received an annual cash retainer of $50,000 for Board services, and the Chairman of the Board and the Vice Chairman of the Board received larger annual cash retainers of $80,000 and $65,000, respectively. Non-employee directors received additional annual retainers for serving on Board committees, as follows: $15,000 for Audit Committee Chair; $15,000 for Compensation Committee Chair; $7,500 for Audit Committee member; $7,500 for Compensation Committee member; $10,000 for Nominating and Corporate Governance Chair; $10,000 for Research and Development Chair; $5,000 for Nominating and Corporate Governance member; $5,000 for Research and Development member; $10,000 for Executive Committee Chair; $5,000 for Executive Committee Vice-Chair; $2,000 for Executive Committee Member. In addition, on November 2, 2017, each non-employee director was granted 25,000 stock options (the Chairman of the Board received 30,000 stock options), which became fully vested on the first anniversary of the grant date. The Compensation Committee annually reviews and makes recommendations to the Board regarding compensation and benefits for non-employee directors. As part of its annual review, the Compensation Committee regularly engages an independent compensation consultant to provide competitive market data and advice regarding non-employee director compensation.

Thefollowing table below summarizes the compensation that was earnedall outstanding equity awards held by our non-employee directorsnamed executive officers at fiscal year-end. The market or payout value of unearned shares, units or rights that have not vested equals $0.338, which was the closing price of Advaxis’ common shares on Nasdaq on October 31, 2020 and for fiscal year 2018.performance based restricted stock units presumes that the target performance goals are met.

 

Name Fees Earned or Paid
in Cash (1)
  Stock Awards
(2)
  Option
Awards (3)
  Total 
Dr. David Sidransky  105,000   23,550   75,000   203,550 
Dr. James Patton  87,500   39,250   62,500   189,250 
Roni A. Appel  60,000   -   62,500   123,068 
Richard J. Berman  71,250   7,850   62,500   141,884 
Dr. Samir N. Khleif  67,500   -   62,500   130,000 
Dr. Thomas J. McKearn  24,148   9,850   100,084   134,082 
Thomas Ridge  23,182   -   101,700   124,882 
Name Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options (#) Exercisable  Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options (#) Unexercisable  Option Exercise Price ($)  Option Expiration Date Number of Shares or Units of Stock That Have Not Vested (#)  Value of Shares or Units of Stock That Have Not Vested ($) 
Kenneth Berlin  33,334   16,666(1)  24.30  4/23/2028  5,555(6)  1,878 
   7,111   14,222(2)  8.10  11/5/2028  -   - 
   16,667   33,333(3)  0.31  10/24/2029  -   - 
   -   50,000(4)  0.66  5/04/2030  -   - 
                       
Molly Henderson  11,112   -   25.65  12/25/2020  -   - 
   2,778   -   8.10  12/25/2020  -   - 
                       
Andres Gutierrez  11,112   5,555(5)  24.30  4/23/2028  -   - 
   2,778   5,555(2)  8.10  11/5/2028  -   - 
   8,333   16,667(3)  0.31  10/24/2029  -     
   -   50,000(4)  0.66  5/04/2030  -   - 

 

 (1)RepresentsOf these options, one-third vested on December 31, 2018, one-third vested on April 23, 2020, and the annual retainers paid in cash for director services in Fiscal Year 2018.award will be fully vested on April 23, 2021.
   
 (2)Restricted stock units were granted toOf these options, one-third vested on November 5, 2019, one-third will vest on November 5, 2020, and the Executive Committee ofaward will be fully vested on November 5, 2021.
(3)Of these options, one-third vested on October 24, 2020, one-third will vest on October 24, 2021, and the Board of Directorsaward will be fully vested on June 26, 2018 forOctober 24, 2022.
(4)Of these options, one-third will vest on May 4, 2021, one-third will vest on May 4, 2022, and the successful search in naming a new Chief Executive Officer ofaward will be fully vested on May 4, 2023.
(5)Of these options, one-third vested on April 23, 2019, one-third vested on April 23, 2020, and the Company. In connection with the acceleration of unvestedaward will be fully vested on April 23, 2021
(6)Represents restricted stock units Dr. McKearn hadgranted to Mr. Berlin as an additional expense dueinducement award on April 23, 2018. The award vests over three years with one-third vested on December 31, 2018, one-third vesting on April 23, 2020, and the award will be fully vested on April 23, 2021.

36

PLAN RATIFICATION PROPOSAL

Ratification and approval of the prior amendment to the Company’s 2015 Incentive Plan, which was adopted following the 2020 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, to increase the total number of shares of common stock authorized for issuance thereunder from 877,744 shares to 6,000,000 shares

Overview

On February 6, 2020, the Board approved an amendment (the “2020 Plan Amendment”) to the 2015 Incentive Plan to increase the total number of shares of common stock authorized for issuance under the 2015 Incentive Plan from 877,744 to 6,000,000, subject to stockholder approval at the Company’s 2020 Annual Meeting of Stockholders. The 2020 Plan Amendment was previously submitted for consideration by the Company’s stockholders at the 2020 Annual Meeting. At the meeting, the Company determined that this proposal received the requisite number of votes for approval. As part of this determination, broker non-votes were treated as having no effect on the outcome of this proposal. However, following the 2020 Annual Meeting, the Company received a stockholder demand letter in which it was alleged that, under the voting standard contained in the Company’s bylaws in effect at the time of the 2020 Annual Meeting, broker non-votes should have been treated as a vote “AGAINST” the proposal. If the broker non-votes were treated as a vote “AGAINST,” the proposal would not have been approved at the 2020 Annual Meeting.

Although the Company does not believe that the interpretation of the then-current by-laws were correct, the Company determined that, in order to avoid any uncertainty and to avoid the cost and expense of any disputes involving the issue, it would be advisable and in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders to adopt the Second Amended and Restated By-Laws of the Company in order to clarify the voting standard and in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders to re-submit this proposal to the Company’s stockholders for ratification and approval. Accordingly, the 2020 Plan Amendment is being submitted to the Company’s stockholders for consideration and ratification at the Annual Meeting. On March 4, 2021 the Company amended the voting standard generally applicable to questions brought before any meeting of stockholders, as set forth in the first sentence of Section 5 of the Second Amended and Restated By Laws. As amended, this sentence reads as follows: “Unless otherwise required by law, the Certificate of Incorporation or the By-Laws, in all matters other than the election of directors, the affirmative vote of the majority of shares present in person or represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote on the subject matter shall be the act of the stockholders.”

In addition, the Company has issued stock options to purchase 694,000 shares of its common stock to certain of its employees and consultants (the “Options”) under the 2015 Incentive Plan since the date of the 2020 Annual Meeting. The Options may not be exercised unless the increase in shares under the 2020 Plan Amendment has been approved. Accordingly, by ratifying and approving the 2020 Plan Amendment, stockholders will also be ratifying and approving the Options granted thereunder.

The 2020 Plan Amendment is available as Exhibit A to the Company’s proxy statement for the 2020 Annual Meeting.

Reasons for the Ratification and Approval of the 2020 Plan Amendment

As further described in the proxy statement for the 2020 Annual Meeting, the Compensation Committee believes the number of shares previously available under the 2015 Incentive Plan prior to the 2020 Plan Amendment would not have been sufficient to make the grants it believes will be needed to provide adequate long-term equity incentives to the Company’s key employees. The ratification and approval of the 2020 Plan Amendment will enable the Company to continue making equity compensation grants that serve as incentives to recruit and retain key employees and to continue aligning the interests of its employees with stockholders.

37

Effect if the Plan Ratification Proposal is not Approved

If the Plan Ratification Proposal is not approved by the affirmative vote of the majority of shares present in person or represented by proxy at the Company’s 2021 Annual Meeting and entitled to vote on the subject matter, the 2020 Plan Amendment will be deemed to have not been approved by our stockholders at the 2020 Annual Meeting. In such case, the 2020 Plan Amendment will be considered void and the total number of shares of common stock authorized for issuance under the 2015 Incentive Plan will revert back to 877,744 shares, thereby requiring the Company to rescind any awards granted pursuant to the 2015 Incentive Plan that would cause the number of shares of common stock issued under the 2015 Incentive Plan to exceed the 877,744 share limitation, including the Options.

Summary of the 2015 Incentive Plan

A summary of the 2015 Incentive Plan is set forth above under “Annual Award Limit Proposal – Summary of the 2015 Incentive Plan.”

Interests of Certain Persons in the Plan Ratification Proposal

The Company’s directors and executive officers currently are permitted to participate in the 2015 Incentive Plan, and therefore they have a substantial interest in the Plan Ratification Proposal.

Vote Required

To be approved, Plan Ratification Proposal must receive “FOR” votes from a majority of the shares present in person or represented by proxy at the Annual Meeting and entitled to vote on the subject matter. If a quorum is present, broker non-votes will not affect the outcome of the vote on the Plan Ratification Proposal, while abstentions will have the same practical effect as a vote “AGAINST” the Plan Ratification Proposal.

The Board of Directors unanimously recommends a vote “FOR” the Plan Ratification Proposal

38

AUDITOR RATIFICATION PROPOSAL

Ratification of Appointment of Independent Registered Public Accountants for Fiscal 2021

The Audit Committee annually considers and selects our independent registered public accountants. The Audit Committee has selected Marcum LLP to act as our independent registered public accountants for the fiscal year ending October 31, 2021.

Stockholder ratification of Marcum LLP as our independent registered public accountants is not required by our By-Laws, or otherwise. However, we are submitting the appointment of Marcum LLP to the stockholders for ratification as a matter of good corporate practice. If the stockholders do not ratify the appointment of Marcum LLP as our independent registered public accountants, the Audit Committee will reconsider the appointment of such independent registered public accountants. Even if the appointment is ratified, the Audit Committee may, in its discretion, direct the appointment of a different independent registered public accountant at any time during the year if it determines that such a change would be in the best interest of the Company and its stockholders.

Representatives of Marcum LLP are expected to attend the Annual Meeting in order to respond to questions from stockholders and will have the opportunity to make a statement.

Audit Committee Report

This Audit Committee Report shall not be deemed to be “soliciting material” or to be filed with the SEC or subject to Regulation 14A or 14C under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act, or to the liabilities of Section 18 of the Exchange Act. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in any of our previous filings under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Exchange Act that might incorporate future filings, including this Proxy Statement, in whole or in part, this report shall not be incorporated by reference into any such filings.

Management is responsible for our internal controls and financial reporting process. The independent registered public accounting firm is responsible for performing an independent audit of our financial statements in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (“PCAOB”) and for issuing an opinion thereon. The Audit Committee’s responsibility is to oversee these processes and our internal controls. The Audit Committee does not prepare or audit our financial statements or certify their accuracy.

In this context, the Audit Committee has met and held discussions with management and the independent registered public accounting firm. Management represented to the Audit Committee that our financial statements were prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and the Audit Committee has reviewed and discussed the audited financial statements with management and the independent registered public accounting firm. The Audit Committee has discussed with the independent registered public accounting firm the matters required to be discussed by the statement on Auditing Standards No. 61, as amended, as adopted by the PCAOB in Rule 3200T.

Our independent registered public accounting firm also provided to the Audit Committee the written disclosures and the letter required by applicable requirements of the PCAOB regarding the independent registered public accounting firm’s communications with the Audit Committee concerning independence, and the Audit Committee discussed with the independent registered public accounting firm, Marcum, LLP, the firm’s independence.

Based upon the Audit Committee’s discussions with management and the independent registered public accounting firm and the Audit Committee’s review of our audited financial statements and the representations of management, and the report of the independent registered public accounting firm to the Audit Committee, the Audit Committee recommended that the Board include the audited financial statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K/A for fiscal 2020, as filed with the SEC.

This report is submitted by the Audit Committee.

Richard J. Berman, Chairman
Roni A. Appel
Dr. James P. Patton

39

Disclosure of Principal Accountant Fees and Services

In December 2012, we engaged Marcum LLP (“Marcum”) as our independent registered public accounting firm to audit our financial statements. Beginning with the fiscal year ended October 31, 2012, Marcum has audited our financial statements. The following table presents fees for professional services rendered by Marcum for the fiscal years ended October 31, 2020 and 2019.

  Fiscal 2020  Fiscal 2019 
Audit Fees (1) $202,910  $157,899 
Tax Fees (2)  -   - 
All Other Fees (3)  45,088   84,460 
Total $247,998  $242,359 

(1)Audit Fees consisted primarily of annual audit fees and reviews of the Company’s quarterly reports on Form 10-Q.
(2)Tax Fees consisted primarily of services related to tax compliance, including the modification which is reflected above.preparation, review and filing of tax returns.
   
 (3)Reflects the aggregate grant date fair valueAll Other Fees consisted primarily of stock options determined in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. The assumptions used in determining the grant date fair values of the stock options are set forth in the notesservices related to the Company’s consolidated financial statements, which are included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended October 31, 2018 filed with the SEC.review of securities registration documents and other non-audit reviews.

 

Equity Compensation Plan InformationPolicy on Audit Committee Pre-Approval of Audit and Permissible Non-Audit Services of Independent Auditors

 

The Audit Committee will pre-approve all auditing services and the terms thereof (which may include providing comfort letters in connection with securities underwriting) and non-audit services (other than non-audit services prohibited under Section 10A(g) of the Exchange Act or the applicable rules of the SEC or the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board) to be provided to us by the independent auditor; provided, however, the pre-approval requirement is waived with respect to the provisions of non-audit services for us if the “de minimus” provisions of Section 10A(i)(1)(B) of the Exchange Act are satisfied. This authority to pre-approve non-audit services may be delegated to one or more members of the Audit Committee, who shall present all decisions to pre-approve an activity to the full Audit Committee at its first meeting following table includes information related to shares availablesuch decision. The Audit Committee may review and outstanding awards under our equity incentive plans asapprove the scope and staffing of October 31, 2018.the independent auditors’ annual audit plan.

Plan Category Number of
Securities to be
issued upon
Exercise of
outstanding
Options,
Warrants and
Rights (#)
  Weighted-average
Exercise Price of
Outstanding Options,
Warrants and Rights ($)
  Number of
Securities
Remaining
Available for
Future Issuance
Under Equity
Compensation
Plans (#)
 
Equity Compensation Plans approved by security holders  4,951,049   8.19   1,525,692 
Equity Compensation Plans not approved by security holders  -   -   - 
TOTAL:  4,951,049   8.19   1,525,692 

 

DEADLINE FOR RECEIPT OF 2020 STOCKHOLDER PROPOSALSVote Required

To be approved, the Auditor Ratification Proposal must receive “FOR” votes from a majority of the shares present in person or represented by proxy at the Annual Meeting and entitled to vote on the subject matter. Abstentions will have the same practical effect as a vote against the Auditor Ratification Proposal. Broker discretionary voting is permitted with respect to the Auditor Ratification Proposal.

The Board of Directors unanimously recommends a vote “FOR” the Auditor Ratification Proposal relating to the ratification of the appointment of Marcum LLP as our independent registered public accountants for fiscal 2021.

40

Deadline for Receipt of 2021 Stockholder Proposals

 

Stockholders may present proper proposals for inclusion in our proxy statement and for consideration at the next annual meeting of stockholders by submitting their proposals in writing to our Corporate Secretary in a timely manner. For a stockholder proposal to be considered for inclusion in our proxy statement for the 20202022 Annual Meeting, our Corporate Secretary must receive the written proposal at our principal executive offices no later than October 15, 2019;December 22, 2021; provided, however, that in the event that we hold the 20202022 Annual Meeting more than 30 days before or after the one-year anniversary date of the Annual Meeting, we will disclose the new deadline by which stockholders proposals must be received under Item 5 of our earliest possible Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q or, if impracticable, by any means reasonably calculated to inform stockholders. In addition, stockholder proposals must otherwise comply with the requirements of Rule 14a-8 of the Exchange Act. Such proposals also must comply with SEC regulations under Rule 14a-8 regarding the inclusion of stockholder proposals in company-sponsored proxy materials. Proposals should be addressed to:

 

Advaxis Inc.
Attn: Corporate Secretary
305 College Road East9 Deer Park Drive, Suite K-1
Princeton, New Jersey 08540Monmouth Junction, NJ 08852

 

Stockholder proposals to be presented at the 2022022 Annual Meeting other than stockholder proposals submitted pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 14a-8 for inclusion in the proxy statement for the 20202021 Annual Meeting, must be received in writing at our corporate offices nonot earlier than the close of business on the 120th calendar day and not later than 45 days beforethe close of business on the 90th calendar day prior to the one-year anniversary of the date this proxy statement is expected to be mailed to you.year’s annual meeting and must comply with the other requirements set forth in our By-Laws.

 

DELIVERY OF PROXY MATERIALS TO HOUSEHOLDSDelivery of Proxy Materials to Households

 

The SEC has adopted rules that permit companies and intermediaries, such as brokers, to satisfy the delivery requirements for proxy statements and annual reports with respect to two or more stockholders sharing the same address by delivering a single proxy statement addressed to those stockholders. This process, which is commonly referred to as “householding,” potentially provides extra convenience for stockholders and cost savings for companies.

 

We and some brokers may be householding our proxy materials by delivering a single proxy statement and annual report to multiple stockholders sharing an address unless contrary instructions have been received from the affected stockholders. Once you have received notice from your broker or us that they or we will be householding materials to your address, householding will continue until you are notified otherwise or until you revoke your consent. If at any time you no longer wish to participate in householding and would prefer to receive a separate proxy statement and annual report, or if you are receiving multiple copies of the proxy statement and annual report and wish to receive only one, please notify your broker if your shares are held in a brokerage account or us if you are a stockholder of record. You can notify us by sending a written request by mail to Molly Henderson, Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary,Igor Gitelman, VP of Finance, Advaxis, Inc., 305 College Road East, Princeton, New Jersey 08540,9 Deer Park Drive, Suite K-1, Monmouth Junction, NJ 08852, or by calling (609) 250-7510.917-940-5651. In addition, we will promptly deliver, upon written or oral request to the address or telephone number above, a separate copy of the annual report and proxy statement to a stockholder at a shared address to which a single copy of the documents was delivered.

OTHER MATTERSOther Matters

 

The Board knows of no other matters that may come before the Annual Meeting. If any other matters should properly come before the Annual Meeting, it is the intention of the persons named in the accompanying proxy to vote in accordance with their judgment on such matters. Such discretionary authority is conferred by the proxy.

 

In our filings with the SEC, information is sometimes “incorporated by reference.” This means that we are referring you to information that has previously been filed with the SEC, so the information should be considered as part of the filing you are reading. Based on SEC regulations, the Audit Committee Report specifically is not incorporated by reference into any other filings with the SEC.

 

41

EXHIBITAPPENDIX A

 

CERTIFICATE OF AMENDMENT

OF THE

AMENDED AND RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION

OF

ADVAXIS, INC.

 

Advaxis, Inc., a corporation organized and existing under and by virtue of the Delaware General Corporation Law (the “Corporation”), does hereby certify:

 

1.The amended and restated certificate of incorporation of the Corporation is hereby amended by deleting Article Fourth thereof in its entirety and inserting the following in lieu thereof:
“Fourth: The total number of shares which the Corporation shall have the authority to issue is One Hundred and Seventy Five Million (175,000,000) shares of which One Hundred and Seventy Million (170,000,000) shares shall be designated “Common Stock” and have a par value of $0.001 per share, and Five Million (5,000,000) shares shall be “blank check” preferred stock and have a par value of $0.001.”
2.The foregoing amendment was duly adopted in accordance with the provisions of Section 242 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware

 

“Fourth : The total number of shares which the Corporation shall have the authority to issue is One Hundred and Seventy Five Million (305,000,000) shares of which Three Hundred Million (300,000,000) shares shall be designated “Common Stock” and have a par value of $0.001 per share, and Five Million (5,000,000) shares shall be “blank check” preferred stock and have a par value of $0.001.”

The foregoing amendment was duly adopted in accordance with the provisions of Section 242 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Corporation has caused this Certificate of Amendment of the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation to be executed and acknowledged by its duly appointed officer as of this     __th day of                  __________, 2019., 2021.

 

 ADVAXIS, INC.By:
 Name: Kenneth A. Berlin
Title:President and Chief Executive Officer, Interim Chief Financial Officer

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APPENDIX B

AMENDMENT TO THE

ADVAXIS, INC.

2015 INCENTIVE PLAN

This AMENDMENT to the ADVAXIS, INC. 2015 INCENTIVE PLAN (“Amendment”) is made as of February 11, 2021.

1. Amendment. Section 5.4 of the 2015 Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) of Advaxis, Inc. (the “Corporation”), effective March 30, 2015, which provision was automatically adjusted to give effect to the Company’s reverse stock split, is hereby amended and restated in its entirety and shall read as follows:

“5.4. LIMITATION ON AWARDS. Notwithstanding any provision in the Plan to the contrary (but subject to adjustment as provided in Article 15):

(a) Options. The maximum number of Options granted under the Plan in any calendar year to any one Participant shall be for 1,000,000 Shares.

(b) SARs. The maximum number of Stock Appreciation Rights granted under the Plan in any calendar year to any one Participant shall be with respect to 750,000 Shares.

(c) Performance Awards. With respect to any calendar year (i) the maximum amount that may be paid to any one Participant for Performance Awards payable in cash or property other than Shares shall be $10,000,000, and (ii) the maximum number of Shares that may be paid to any one Participant for Performance Awards payable in Stock shall be 1,000,000 Shares. For purposes of applying these limits in the case of multi-year performance periods, the amount of cash or property or number of Shares deemed paid with respect to any calendar year is the total amount payable or Shares earned for the performance period divided by the number of calendar years in the performance period.

(d) Awards to Non-Employee Directors. The maximum aggregate number of Shares associated with any Award granted under the Plan in any calendar year to any one Non-Employee Director shall be 200,000 Shares.”

2. Effectiveness of Amendment. This Amendment shall be effective upon the approval of the Company’s stockholders, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Plan, the Corporation’s amended and restated certificate of incorporation, amended and restated bylaws and applicable Delaware law.

3. Effectiveness of Plan. Except as set forth in this Amendment, all of the terms and conditions of the Plan shall remain unchanged and in full force and effect.

4. Execution. The Board of Directors of the Corporation has caused its authorized officer to execute this Amendment and to record the same in the books and records of the Corporation.

 By: 
 Name: Molly HendersonKenneth A. Berlin
 Title:President and Chief Executive Officer, Interim Chief Financial Officer
Executive Vice President and Corporate Secretary

 

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