UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

SCHEDULE 14A

Rule 14a-101

Schedule 14A Information

SCHEDULE 14A
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Callon Petroleum Company

(Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter)

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Picture 2

CALLON PETROLEUM COMPANY

200 NORTH CANAL STREET

NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI 39120

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One Briarlake Plaza
2000 W. Sam Houston Parkway S., Suite 2000
Houston, Texas 77042

NOTICE OF THE 2016 ANNUALSPECIAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

TO BE HELD THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2016

To Our Stockholders:

Notice is hereby given and you are cordially invited to attend the2016 Annual MeetingSHAREHOLDERS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a special meeting of Stockholders (the “Annualshareholders (the “Special Meeting”) of Callon Petroleum Company (“Callon,” the “Company,” “us,“our,“we,” “our”“we” or like terms), a Delaware corporation, which “us”) will be held in Natchez, Mississippi, on                Thursday, May 12, 2016,, 2021 at         9:00 a.m.[a.m. // p.m.] Central Daylight Time (“CDT”)at                               , for the purpose of considering and taking the following action, which is described in the Grand Ballroomaccompanying Proxy Statement:
To vote, for purposes of complying with Rule 312.03(b) of the Natchez Grand Hotel, 111 Broadway Street, Natchez, Mississippi 39120,New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) Listed Company Manual, upon a proposal (the “Issuance Proposal”) to considerapprove the issuance to Chambers Investments, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Kimmeridge”), of 5,512,623 shares of common stock, par value $0.01, of the Company (the “Common Stock” and such shares to be issued the “New Common Stock”).
Callon will transact no other business at the Special Meeting, except such business as may properly be brought before the Special Meeting or any adjournments or postponements thereof by or at the direction of the Callon board of directors (the “Board”) in accordance with Callon’s bylaws.
The Board has unanimously determined that the issuance to Kimmeridge of the New Common Stock is in the best interests of Callon and its shareholders. The Board unanimously recommends that you vote on“FOR” the following proposals:Issuance Proposal.

·

The election of three Class I Directors, Messrs. Larry D. McVay, John C. Wallace and Michael L. Finch, for a three-year term;

·

The approval, by non-binding advisory vote, of the compensation of our named executive officers (“NEOs”);

·

The ratification of the appointment of Grant Thornton LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2016;

·

The approval of an amendment to Article Four of the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation increasing the number of authorized shares of Common Stock of the Company (“Common Stock”) from 150 million shares to 300 million shares; and

·

The transaction of other business as may properly come before the Annual Meeting or any adjournment(s) thereof.

We describe these proposals in detail within the accompanying proxy materials. Only holdersshareholders of record as of our common stock at the close of business on                  March 18, 2016, 2021 (the “Record Date”), are entitled to receive notice of and to attend the Annual Meeting and to vote on the above listed matters. Beginning on or about April 1, 2016, we mailed a Notice Regarding the Internet Availability of Proxy Materials (the “Notice”) to our stockholders. The Notice contained instructions on how to access the proxy statement and related materials online and how to vote your shares. Instructions for requesting a paper copy of the proxy materials are contained in the Notice. A list of stockholders entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting will be available at our office at 200 North Canal Street, Natchez, MS 39120 during normal business hoursSpecial Meeting.

On August 3, 2021, we entered into an Exchange Agreement with Kimmeridge, pursuant to which we agreed to issue and deliver to Kimmeridge, subject to shareholder approval, the New Common Stock in exchange for a period$197.0 million aggregate principal amount of ten daysthe Company’s 9.00% Second Lien Senior Secured Notes due 2025 held by Kimmeridge, including in respect of any accrued and unpaid interest (the “Exchange Agreement”). The Exchange Agreement is described in the accompanying Proxy Statement and is attached thereto as Annex A. We are seeking shareholder approval of the Issuance Proposal in order to comply with Rule 312.03(b) of the NYSE Listed Company Manual (“Rule 312.03(b)”). Under Rule 312.03(b), shareholder approval is required prior to any issuance or sale of common stock in any transaction or series of related transactions (i) to a substantial security holder of the meetingcompany (a “Related Party”) if the number of shares of common stock to be issued exceeds either 1% of the number of shares of common stock or 1% of the voting power outstanding before the issuance or (ii) when a Related Party has a 5% or greater interest, directly or indirectly, in the company or in the consideration to be paid in the transaction or series of related transactions, and the present or potential issuance of common stock could result in an issuance that exceeds either 5% of the number of shares of common stock or 5% of the voting power outstanding before the issuance. As described further in the accompanying Proxy Statement, due to Kimmeridge’s beneficial ownership of approximately 13.4% of our Common Stock (as of September 3, 2021), Kimmeridge is a Related Party for purposes of Rule 312.03(b).
Pursuant to the Exchange Agreement, Kimmeridge has agreed to vote all shares of Common Stock beneficially owned by it as of the Record Date in favor of the Issuance Proposal. In connection with the execution of the Exchange Agreement, each of the Company’s executive officers and directors also entered into a Voting Agreement, dated as of the date of the Exchange Agreement (the “Voting Agreement”). On the terms and conditions set forth in the Voting Agreement, our executive officers and directors agreed to vote all of the shares of Common Stock over which they have voting power (representing in the aggregate approximately 2% of the Company’s total outstanding voting power) in favor of the Issuance Proposal. The Voting Agreement is described in the accompanying Proxy Statement and is attached thereto as Annex B.



Additionally, pursuant to those certain purchase and sale agreements, dated as of August 3, 2021, between the Company, Callon Petroleum Operating Company and Primexx Resource Development, LLC and BPP Acquisition, LLC, respectively (collectively, “Primexx” and such transactions contemplated by such purchase and sale agreements, the “Primexx Transaction”), Primexx has agreed to vote all shares of Common Stock over which they will alsohave voting power (estimated to be available for inspection9.19 million shares, subject to purchase price adjustments pursuant to the purchase and sale agreements) in favor of the Issuance Proposal. In the aggregate, the foregoing voting agreements represent approximately 16 million, or approximately 30%, of the shares anticipated to be outstanding on the Record Date.
It is important that your shares be represented at the Annual Meeting.

Special Meeting, regardless of the number of shares you may hold. Whether or not you plan to attend, the meeting, please vote electronically viausing the Internet, or by telephone or please complete, sign, date and returnby mail, in each case by following the instructions in the accompanying proxy cardProxy Statement. This will not prevent you from voting your shares in the enclosed postage-paid envelope as soon as possible. See “Information About Voting and The Meeting” in the proxy statement for more details.

We look forward to seeing youperson at the meeting.

Special Meeting if you are present.

By Order of the Board of Directors,

By: /s/ B.F. Weatherly

Natchez, Mississippi           B.F. Weatherly

April 1, 2016Corporate Secretary

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L. Richard Flury
Chairman of the Board

YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT!

Dated:               , 2021
Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the

Annual Special Meeting of Stockholders to be held on                  May 12, 2016:

This proxy statement, 2021: this Proxy Statement and our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-Kthe accompanying Proxy Card are available electronically at

https://www.iproxydirect.com/CPE [www.[●].com].

This Proxy Statement and www.callon.com

If you have any questionsthe accompanying Proxy Card are being mailed to shareholders on or need assistance voting yourabout               , 2021. The Proxy Card includes instructions on how to access the proxy materials over the Internet, how to request additional printed copies of these materials, and how to vote shares please callof our proxy solicitor:

Morrow & Co., LLC

470 West Avenue - 3rd Floor

Stamford, CT 06902

Banks and Brokerage Firms, please call (203) 658-9400.

Stockholders, please call toll free (800) 414-4313.

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PROXY SUMMARY

This summary is included to provide an introduction and overview ofCommon Stock. In addition, by following the information containedinstructions in the Proxy Statement. This is a summary only and highlights information contained elsewhereCard or other voting instruction card, shareholders may request to receive proxy materials in this Proxy Statement. This summary does not contain allprinted form by mail or electronically by e-mail on an ongoing basis.




Table of the information you should consider and is not a form for voting. You should read the entire Proxy Statement carefully before voting. 

2016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders

Contents

Date and Time:
May 12, 2016, at 9:00 a.m., Central Daylight Time

Location:Natchez Grand Hotel, 111 Broadway Street, Natchez, Mississippi 39120

Record Date:March 18, 2016

Proxy Voting:Stockholders as of the close of business on the Record Date are entitled to vote. Each share of Common Stock is entitled to one vote at the Annual Meeting

Voting Matters and Board Recommendation

DATE, TIME AND PLACE OF THE SPECIAL MEETING

Proposal

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Board

Recommendation

No. 1:  Election of Three Director Nominees to Serve for a Three-Year Term Expiring in 2019

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

FOR

No. 2:  Advisory Vote to Approve Named Executive Officer Compensation

WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION

FOR

No. 3: Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation to Increase Authorized Shares of Common Stock from 150 million to 300 million

Information Incorporated by Reference

FOR

THE ISSUANCE PROPOSAL

No. 4: 12
Overview and Reason for the Issuance Proposal
Ratification12
The Voting Agreements
Registration Rights Agreement
BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP OF SECURITIES14
OTHER MATTERS17
Requirements, including Deadlines, for Submission of Proxy Proposals, Nomination of Directors and Other Business of Shareholders17
List of Shareholders Entitled to Vote at the Appointment of Grant Thornton, LLC as the Company’s Independent                registered Public Accounting Firm for 2016

Special Meeting

18
Expenses Relating to this Proxy Solicitation

18
ANNEX A EXCHANGE AGREEMENT

FOR

A-1
ANNEX B VOTING AGREEMENT

Executive Compensation Highlights

Our Board has a “pay-for-performance” philosophy and recognizes the leadership of Mr. Fred L. Callon, our Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, and our other executive officers in contributing to the Company’s success in 2015. Our compensation program is designed to reward, in both the short-term and the long-term, performance that contributes to the implementation of our business strategies, maintenance of our culture and values and the achievement of our objectives. In addition, we reward qualities that we believe help achieve our business strategies, such as teamwork, individual performance in light of general economic and industry-specific conditions, relationships with shareholders and vendors, the ability to manage and enhance production from our existing assets, the ability to explore new opportunities to increase oil and natural gas production, the ability to identify and acquire additional acreage, the ability to increase year-over-year proved reserves, the ability to control unit production costs, level of job responsibility, industry experience and general professional growth.

·

As a result of the achievements listed above, the Committee awarded bonuses above target for our NEOs for 2015 performance;

B-1

·

In May 2015, the Committee granted long-term incentives to our NEOs, 60% of which were tied to total stockholder return, or TSR;


·

The Committee certified the results of the 2013 grants of TSR phantom shares, which measured Callon’s TSR against its peers for the 2013-2015 time period. Callon ranked first out of 13 peers, resulting in 200% of the targeted number of phantom shares vesting; and


·

No changes were made to NEO base salaries in 2015.


In 2015, approximately 96% of the shares voted at last year’s annual meeting approved our 2014 executive compensation by supporting our “Say-on-Pay” proposal.

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Key Elements of our Executive Compensation

·

“Pay-for-Performance” philosophy linking compensation directly to performance, with a significant portion of total annual compensation placed “at risk”


·

Competitive base salary

·

Annual cash bonus incentive tied to the achievement of specified Company performance targets

·

Long-term equity or equity-based incentive awards and performance share program based on relative TSR

·

Other benefit plans and programs, such as retirement, health benefits and severance protection

Governance Highlights

·

Board meetings in 2015: 5

·

Committee meetings: Audit – 9; Compensation – 5; Nominating and Corporate Governance – 3; Strategic Planning and Reserves – 3

·

7 out of 8 Directors are independent and committees are comprised entirely of independent Directors

·

Majority vote standard in election of Directors

·

Classified Board of Directors with staggered terms

·

Director and Officer stock ownership guidelines

·

Elimination of tax gross-ups

·

“Double Trigger” severance agreements with fixed term

·

Policy prohibiting hedging transactions [related to stock ownership positions]

·

Recently updated governance documents, such as the Corporate Governance Guidelines, Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, and Board Committee Charters.

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PROXY STATEMENT

________________________

CALLON PETROLEUM COMPANY

200 North Canal Street

Natchez, Mississippi 39120

(601) 442-1601

2016 ANNUAL

PROXY STATEMENT FOR SPECIAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2016

INFORMATION CONCERNING SOLICITATION AND VOTING

WeSHAREHOLDERS
TO BE HELD ON                , 2021

You are providing youreceiving this proxy statement in connection with(the “Proxy Statement”) and the solicitationaccompanying proxy card or other voting instruction card (the “Proxy Card”) because you own shares of proxies by our board of directors (the “Board” or individually “Director” and collectively “Directors”common stock, par value $0.01 (“Common Stock”) to be voted at the 2016 annual meeting (the “Annual Meeting”) of stockholders, of Callon Petroleum Company (“Callon,” the “Company,” “us,“our,“we,“we” or “us”) that entitle you to vote at a special meeting of shareholders (the “Special Meeting”). Callon’s board of directors (the “Board”) is soliciting proxies from shareholders entitled to vote at the Special Meeting. By use of the Proxy Card, you can vote even if you do not attend the Special Meeting. This Proxy Statement describes the matter on which you are being asked to vote and provides information on this matter so that you can make an informed decision. These proxy materials are being distributed and/or made available to shareholders on or about                , 2021.
DATE, TIME AND PLACE OF THE SPECIAL MEETING
We will hold the Special Meeting on                , 2021 at           [a.m. // p.m.] Central Daylight Time at                              .
The Board has fixed the close of business on                , 2021 as the record date (the “Record Date”) for the determination of shareholders entitled to notice of and to vote at the Special Meeting. Each shareholder will be entitled to one vote for each share of Common Stock held as of the Record Date on the matter to come before the Special Meeting and may vote in person at the Special Meeting, via Internet, by telephone or by proxy authorized in writing.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Q:     What is the purpose of the Special Meeting?
A:    At the Special Meeting, shareholders will act upon a proposal (the “Issuance Proposal”) to approve the issuance to Chambers Investments, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Kimmeridge”), of Common Stock of the Company. On August 3, 2021, we entered into an Exchange Agreement with Kimmeridge (the “Exchange Agreement”), pursuant to which we agreed to issue and deliver to Kimmeridge, subject to shareholder approval, 5,512,623 shares of Common Stock (such shares to be issued, the “New Common Stock”) in exchange for $197.0 million in aggregate principal amount of the Company’s 9.00% Second Lien Senior Secured Notes due 2025 (the “Second Lien Notes”) held by Kimmeridge, including in respect of any accrued and unpaid interest. Please see page 12 for information on the exchange valuation. The Exchange Agreement is attached hereto as Annex A.
As described in more detail below, in accordance with the applicable NYSE rules, the Company is calling the Special Meeting to consider and vote on the Issuance Proposal.
Q:     Who is Kimmeridge?

A:Chambers Investments, LLC is a private investment vehicle managed by Kimmeridge Energy Management Company, LLC (“Kimmeridge EMC”), an energy private equity firm focused on making direct investments in unconventional oil and gas assets in the United States. Kimmeridge is the holder of $197.0 million in aggregate principal amount of the Company’s Second Lien Notes, issued pursuant to the Indenture, dated as of September 30, 2020 (the “Second Lien Notes Indenture”), by and among the Company, the subsidiary guarantors named therein and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee and collateral agent. As of September 3, 2021, Kimmeridge EMC beneficially owned 6,188,157 shares of Common Stock of the Company. Kimmeridge’s current holdings in the Company’s Second Lien Notes and all but 602,503 shares of Common Stock were obtained as part of concurrent transactions agreed to in September 2020 whereby Kimmeridge purchased Second Lien Notes, warrants for Common Stock, and an overriding royalty interest
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in substantially all Callon-operated oil and gas leaseholds as of the effective date of such transactions. Kimmeridge’s remaining shares of Common Stock were purchased in the open market. It is headquartered at 412 West 15th Street, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10011. Neither Kimmeridge nor any of its affiliated entities has Board representation or any other governance rights with respect to the Company.
Q:     Why is shareholder approval of the issuance of the New Common Stock required?
A:We are seeking shareholder approval of the Issuance Proposal in order to comply with Rule 312.03(b) of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) Listed Company Manual (“Rule 312.03(b)”). Under Rule 312.03(b), shareholder approval is required prior to any issuance or sale of common stock in any transaction or series of related transactions (i) to a substantial security holder of the company (a “Related Party”) if the number of shares of common stock to be issued exceeds either 1% of the number of shares of common stock or 1% of the voting power outstanding before the issuance or (ii) when a Related Party has a 5% or greater interest, directly or indirectly, in the company or in the consideration to be paid in the transaction or series of related transactions, and the present or potential issuance of common stock could result in an issuance that exceeds either 5% of the number of shares of common stock or 5% of the voting power outstanding before the issuance. Under Rule 312.04(e) of the NYSE Listed Company Manual (“Rule 312.04(e)”), a shareholder is presumed to be a “substantial security holder” (and therefore, a “Related Party” for purposes of Rule 312.03(b)) if it owns either 5% or more of the number of shares of common stock or 5% or more of the voting power outstanding of a NYSE listed company.
    Due to Kimmeridge’s beneficial ownership of approximately 13.4% of our outstanding shares of Common Stock as of September 3, 2021, Kimmeridge is a Related Party for purposes of Rule 312.03(b). Upon consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Exchange Agreement, the Company would issue to Kimmeridge New Common Stock equal to approximately 9.9% of the Company’s then-outstanding Common Stock. As a result, the issuance of the New Common Stock pursuant to the Exchange Agreement is subject to shareholder approval for purposes of complying with Rule 312.03(b).
Q:     What is the effect of shareholder approval?
A:Upon shareholder approval of the Issuance Proposal and the satisfaction of the other closing conditions contained in the Exchange Agreement (as described below), the transactions contemplated by the Exchange Agreement would be consummated. As a result of the issuance of the New Common Stock pursuant to the Exchange Agreement, Kimmeridge would hold, in the aggregate, approximately 19.2% of our issued and outstanding Common Stock and the Company would acquire and then cancel $197.0 million of Second Lien Notes.
    The transactions contemplated by the Exchange Agreement are intended to strengthen the Company’s financial position by accelerating deleveraging initiatives and reducing cash interest expense by approximately $20 million per year. In addition, the transactions will improve the standing of shareholders in the capital structure of the Company and enhance Callon’s access to debt capital markets, providing the opportunity for reductions in the corporate cost of capital.
Q:     What will happen if the Company’s shareholders do not approve the Issuance Proposal?
A:If we do not obtain the requisite shareholder approval of the Issuance Proposal at the Special Meeting, the transactions contemplated by the Exchange Agreement will not be consummated. The New Common Stock will not be issued to Kimmeridge and the $197.0 million of Second Lien Notes owed by Kimmeridge will remain outstanding.
Q:    Are there conditions to the closing of the transactions pursuant to the Exchange Agreement?
A:Yes. The closing of the transactions pursuant to the Exchange Agreement is subject to various closing conditions, including (i) for purposes of complying with Rule 312.03(b) of the NYSE Listed Company
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Manual, approval of the Company’s shareholders of the issuance of New Common Stock to Kimmeridge, (ii) the closing of the Company’s previously announced acquisitions of certain producing oil and gas properties and undeveloped acreage in the Delaware Basin from Primexx (the “Primexx Transaction”), (iii) approval by the NYSE of the listing of the New Common Stock, (iv) the accuracy of each party’s representations and warranties, subject to certain materiality qualifiers and (v) the absence of any injunctions or orders preventing the Exchange.
    If any of these conditions are not satisfied or waived, the transactions pursuant to the Exchange Agreement will not close and, as a result, (i) the New Common Stock will not be issued to Kimmeridge and (ii) the $197.0 million of Second Lien Notes owned by Kimmeridge will remain outstanding.
Q:     How important is my vote?

A:     Your vote “FOR“our” or like terms).the Issuance Proposal is very important and you are encouraged to submit a proxy as soon as possible. The Annualtransactions contemplated by the Exchange Agreement cannot be completed without approval of the Issuance Proposal by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the votes cast with regard to the Issuance Proposal at the Special Meeting.

Q:     How does the Board recommend that I vote?
A:The Board has unanimously determined that the issuance to Kimmeridge of the New Common Stock is in the best interests of Callon and its shareholders. The Board unanimously recommends that you vote “FOR” the Issuance Proposal.
Q:    When and where will the meeting take place?
A:The Special Meeting will be held on                Thursday, May 12, 2016, 2021, at           9:00 a.m. CDT[a.m. // p.m.], Central daylight Time, at                               . You may register and attend the Special Meeting by following the instructions provided under the question “How do I attend the Special Meeting?”.
Q:     Who may vote at the Special Meeting?
A:You may vote all of the shares of Common Stock that you owned at the close of business on the Record Date. On the Record Date, we had              shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding and entitled to be voted at the Special Meeting. You may cast one vote for each share of Common Stock held by you on the Record Date on the Issuance Proposal.
Q:     How do I attend the Special Meeting?
A:If you wish to attend the Special Meeting in person, you must present valid, government-issued picture identification. If your shares are held in the Grand Ballroomname of a bank, broker or other nominee and you plan to attend the Special Meeting, in order to be admitted you must present proof of your beneficial ownership of the Natchez Grand Hotel, 111 Broadway Street, Natchez, Mississippi 39120. This proxyCommon Stock, such as a bank or brokerage account statement, contains important information foror copy of your Voting Instruction Form or Proxy Card, indicating that you owned shares of our Common Stock at the close of business on the Record Date.
    For safety and security reasons, no cameras, recording equipment, cellular telephones, electronic devices, large bags, briefcases or packages will be permitted in the Special Meeting. No banners, signs, firearms or weapons will be allowed in the meeting room. We reserve the right to consider when decidinginspect all items entering the meeting room.
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Q:     What is the difference between a shareholder of record and a beneficial owner?
A:Shareholder of Record: If your shares of Common Stock are registered directly in your name with Callon’s transfer agent, American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC, you are considered, with respect to those shares, to be the “shareholder of record.”
    Beneficial Owner: If your shares of Common Stock are held by a nominee, you are considered the “beneficial owner” of shares held in “street name.” The Proxy Card has been forwarded to you by your nominee who is considered, with respect to those shares, to be the “shareholder of record.” As the beneficial owner, you have the right to direct your nominee on how to vote your shares by following their instructions for voting by telephone or on the mattersInternet or, if you specifically request a copy of the printed materials, you may use the Proxy Card included in such materials.
Q:     How do I obtain electronic access to the proxy materials?
A:    This Proxy Statement is available to shareholders free of charge at [www.[●].com]. If you hold your shares in street name, you may be able to elect to receive future annual reports or proxy statements electronically. For information regarding electronic delivery you should contact your brokerage firm, bank, trustee or other agent (each, a “nominee”).
Q:     How do I vote?
A:    Shareholder of Record: If you are a shareholder of record, there are four ways to vote:
By Attending the Special Meeting. You may vote in person at the Special Meeting by requesting a ballot when you arrive. You must bring valid picture identification such as a driver’s license or passport and provide proof of stock ownership as of the Record Date.
Via the Internet. You can vote via the Internet by going to the website address provided on your Proxy Card. You will need to use the control number appearing on your Proxy Card to vote via the Internet.
By Telephone. You can also vote by telephone by calling the toll-free telephone number provided on your Proxy Card. You will need to use the control number appearing on your Proxy Card to vote by telephone. You may transmit your voting instructionsfrom any touch-tone telephone.
By Mail. If you received a printed copy of the Proxy Card, you can vote by marking, dating and signing it, and returning it in the reply envelope provided. Please promptly mail your Proxy Card to ensure that we receive it prior to the closing of the polls at the Special Meeting.
Beneficial Owners: If you are a beneficial owner of shares held in “street name,” there are four ways to vote:
By Attending the Special Meeting. You must obtain a “legal proxy” from the organization that holds your shares. A legal proxy is a written document that will authorize you to vote your shares held in “street name” at the Special Meeting. Please contact your nominee for instructions regarding obtaining a legal proxy. You must also bring valid picture identification such as a driver’s license or passport and provide proof of stock ownership as of the Record Date.
Via the Internet. You can vote via the Internet by going to the website address provided on your Proxy Card. You will need to use the control number appearing on your Proxy Card to vote via the Internet. The availability of Internet voting may depend on the voting process of your nominee.
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By Telephone. You can also vote by telephone by calling the toll-free telephone number provided on your Proxy Card. You will need to use the control number appearing on your Proxy Card to vote by telephone. The availability of telephone voting may depend on the voting process of your nominee.
By Mail. You can vote by marking, dating and signing a printed copy of the Proxy Card, and returning it in the reply envelope provided. Please promptly mail your Proxy Card to ensure that we receive it prior to the closing of the polls at the Special Meeting.
    If you vote on the Internet or by telephone, you do not need to return your Proxy Card. Internet and telephone voting for shareholders will be available 24 hours a day, and will close at 11:59 p.m., Central Daylight Time, on                , 2021. Even if you plan to attend the Special Meeting, the Company recommends that you vote your shares in advance as described above so that your vote will be counted if you later decide not to attend the Special Meeting.
Q:     How do I vote shares of Callon Common Stock held in Callon’s 401(k) plan?

A.     If your shares of Callon Common Stock are held in Callon’s Employee Savings and Protection Plan (“Callon’s 401(k) plan”), you will receive an email from the plan administrator with voting instructions. The trustee of Callon’s 401(k) plan will vote your shares of Callon Common Stock in accordance with your directions.

If you do not timely direct the trustee how to vote your shares in the Callon 401(k) plan, or if you do not direct the trustee, the trustee of Callon’s 401(k) plan will vote your shares of Callon Common Stock in proportion to the voting directions received from all plan participants who properly vote. Please note that votes for shares held in Callon’s 401(k) plan have an earlier voting deadline. Please review the instructions for the date by which your voting directions must be received in order for your shares of Callon Common Stock to be voted as you direct.

In the case of internet or telephone voting, you should have your voting instructions in hand until you have completed the voting process.

Please note that no votes will be accepted at the Special Meeting in respect of shares of Callon Common Stock held in Callon’s 401(k) plan and that all such votes must be voted prior to the Callon Special Meeting.

Q:What constitutes a quorum, and why is a quorum required?
A:Under our Amended and Restated Bylaws, we are required to have a quorum of shareholders present for the Issuance Proposal to be voted at the Special Meeting. The presence at the Special Meeting, in person or by proxy, of the holders of a majority of the stock issued and outstanding and entitled to vote as of the Record Date will constitute a quorum, permitting us to conduct the business of the Special Meeting. Proxies received but marked as abstentions as well as broker non-votes (as described below), if any, will be included in the calculation of the number of shares considered to be present at the Special Meeting for quorum purposes. If we do not have a quorum present or represented, then the Chairman of the Special Meeting or the shareholders present or represented by proxy and entitled to vote at the Special Meeting may adjourn the meeting from time to time, as authorized by our Amended and Restated Bylaws, until a quorum is present.
Q:How many votes are needed to approve the Issuance Proposal?
A:Approval of the Issuance Proposal requires the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the votes cast with regard to the Issuance Proposal at the Special Meeting, if a quorum is present. Abstentions and broker non-votes will each be counted as present for purposes of determining the presence of a quorum but
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will not be included in determining the number of votes cast and will have no effect upon the outcome of the vote on the Issuance Proposal.
    Pursuant to the Exchange Agreement, Kimmeridge has agreed to vote all shares of Common Stock beneficially owned by it as of the Record Date in favor of the Issuance Proposal. In connection with the execution of the Exchange Agreement, each of the Company’s executive officers and directors also entered into a Voting Agreement, dated as of the date of the Exchange Agreement (the “Voting Agreement”). On the terms and conditions set forth in the Voting Agreement, our executive officers and directors agreed to vote all of the shares of Common Stock over which they have voting power (representing in the aggregate approximately 2% of the Company’s total outstanding voting power as of August 3, 2021) in favor of the Issuance Proposal. The Voting Agreement is attached hereto as Annex B.
    Additionally, pursuant to those certain purchase and sale agreements, dated as of August 3, 2021, between the Company and Callon Petroleum Operating Company and Primexx Resource Development LLC and BPP Acquisition, LLC, respectively (collectively, “Primexx”) executed in connection with the Primexx Transaction, Primexx has agreed to vote shares of Common Stock over which they will have voting power (estimated to be 9.19 million shares, subject to purchase price adjustments pursuant to the purchase and sale agreements) in favor of the Issuance Proposal. In the aggregate, the foregoing voting agreements represent approximately 16 million, or approximately 30%, of the shares anticipated to be outstanding on the Record Date.
Q:What if I sign and return my proxy without making any selections?
A:If you sign and return your Proxy Card without making any selections, your shares will be voted “FOR” the Issuance Proposal.
Q:     What if I am a beneficial owner and I do not give the nominee voting instructions?
A:If you are a beneficial owner and your shares are held in the name of a broker or other nominee, such broker or nominee is bound by the rules of the NYSE regarding whether or not it can exercise discretionary voting power for any particular proposal if the broker has not received voting instructions from you. Brokers have discretionary authority to vote shares for which their customers do not provide voting instructions on certain “routine” matters. A broker non-vote occurs when a nominee who holds shares for another does not vote on a particular item because the nominee does not have discretionary voting authority for that item and has not received instructions from the beneficial owner of the shares. The Issuance Proposal is not considered a “routine” matter; accordingly, if you hold your shares of Common Stock through a broker or other nominee, and you return your voting instruction card without providing voting instructions, your nominee will not have discretionary authority to vote your shares of Common Stock.
Q:     Can I change my vote after I have delivered my Proxy Card?
A:Yes. You may revoke your Proxy Card at any time before its exercise. You may also revoke your proxy by (i) voting in person at the Special Meeting, (ii) delivering to the Corporate Secretary (at our principal executive offices in Houston, Texas) a revocation of proxy or (iii) executing a new proxy bearing a later date. If you are a beneficial owner, you must contact your nominee to change your vote or obtain a proxy to vote your shares if you wish to cast your vote in person at the Special Meeting.
Q:     If I plan to attend the Special Meeting, should I still vote by proxy?
A:Yes. Casting your vote in advance does not affect your right to attend the Special Meeting.
    If you vote in advance and also attend the Special Meeting, you do not need to vote again at the Special Meeting unless you want to change your vote. Written ballots will be available at the Special Meeting for shareholders of record.
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Q:     What happens if I sell or otherwise transfer my shares of Common Stock before the Special     Meeting?
A:     The Record Date is prior to the date of the Special Meeting. If you sell or otherwise transfer your shares of Common Stock after the Record Date but before the Special Meeting, unless special arrangements are made between you and the person to whom you transfer your shares of Common Stock (such as provision of a proxy), you will retain your right to vote such shares at the Special Meeting but will otherwise transfer ownership of and the economic interest in your shares of Common Stock.

Q:     Will any other business be conducted at the Special Meeting?
A:    Callon will transact no other business at the Special Meeting, except such business as may properly be brought before the meeting. Please readSpecial Meeting or any adjournments or postponements thereof by or at the direction of the Board in accordance with Callon’s bylaws.
Q:     Where can I find voting results of the Special Meeting?
A:We will announce the results for the proposals voted upon at the Special Meeting and publish final detailed voting results in a Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) within four business days after the Special Meeting.
Q:     Am I entitled to dissenter’s rights?
A:No. Delaware General Corporation Law (the “DGCL”) does not provide for dissenter’s rights in connection with the Issuance Proposal being voted on at the Special Meeting.
Q:     Am I entitled to preemptive rights?
A:No. Under the DGCL and our Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, shareholders are not entitled to any preemptive rights in connection with the issuance of the New Common Stock to Kimmeridge.
Q:     Who should I call with other questions?
A:If you need assistance voting your shares, please contact Investor Relations at (281) 589-5200. If you have additional questions about this Proxy Statement or the Special Meeting or would like additional copies of this Proxy Statement or the Proxy Card, please contact our proxy solicitor:
    Innisfree M&A Incorporated
    501 Madison Avenue, 20th Floor
    New York NY 10022.

    Banks and Brokerage Firms, please call: (281) 589-5200
    Shareholders, please call toll-free: (888) 750-5834

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SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS
This Proxy Statement includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements in this Proxy Statement by words such as “anticipate,” “project,” “intend,” “estimate,” “expect,” “believe,” “predict,” “budget,” “projection,” “goal,” “plan,” “forecast,” “target” or similar expressions.
All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included in this Proxy Statement and the information incorporated by reference that address activities, events or developments that we expect or anticipate will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements, including such things as:
our oil and natural gas reserve quantities, and the discounted present value of these reserves;
the amount and nature of our capital expenditures;
our future drilling and development plans and our potential drilling locations;
the timing and amount of future capital and operating costs;
production decline rates from our wells being greater than expected;
commodity price risk management activities and the impact on our average realized prices;
business strategies and plans of management;
our ability to consummate and efficiently integrate recent acquisitions; and
prospect development and property acquisitions.
We caution you that the forward-looking statements contained or incorporated by reference in this Proxy Statement are subject to all of the risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, incident to the exploration for and development, production and sale of oil and natural gas. These and other risks include, but are not limited to, the risks described in Part I, Item 1A of our 2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K and in all Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed subsequently thereto. These factors include:
volatility of oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids (“NGLs”) prices or a prolonged period of low oil, natural gas or NGLs prices;
general economic conditions including the availability of credit and access to existing lines of credit;
changes in the supply of and demand for oil and natural gas, including as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and various governmental actions taken to mitigate its impact or actions by, or disputes among, members of OPEC and other oil and natural gas producing countries, such as Russia, with respect to production levels or other matters related to the price of oil;
the uncertainty of estimates of oil and natural gas reserves;
impairments;
the impact of competition;
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the availability and cost of seismic, drilling and other equipment, waste and water disposal infrastructure, and personnel;
operating hazards inherent in the exploration for and production of oil and natural gas;
difficulties encountered during the exploration for and production of oil and natural gas;
the potential impact of future drilling on production from existing wells;
difficulties encountered in delivering oil and natural gas to commercial markets;
the uncertainty of our ability to attract capital and obtain financing on favorable terms;
compliance with, or the effect of changes in, the extensive governmental regulations regarding the oil and natural gas business including those related to climate change and greenhouse gases;
the impact of government regulation, including regulation of hydraulic fracturing and water disposal wells;
any increase in severance or similar taxes;
the financial impact of accounting regulations and critical accounting policies;
the comparative cost of alternative fuels;
credit risk relating to the risk of loss as a result of non-performance by our counterparties;
cyberattacks on the Company or on systems and infrastructure used by the oil and natural gas industry; and
weather conditions.
In addition, there are risks and uncertainties relating to the Primexx Transaction, which include the following:
the purchase and sale agreements relating to the Primexx Transaction may be terminated in accordance with their respective terms or the parties thereto may not be able to satisfy the conditions to completion of the Primexx Transaction, in which case the Primexx Transaction may not be completed;
the Primexx Transaction may not be accretive, and may be dilutive, to Callon’s earnings per share, which may negatively affect the market price of Callon Common Stock;
Callon may incur significant transaction and other costs in connection with the Primexx Transaction and the transactions pursuant to the Exchange Agreement in excess of those anticipated by Callon; and
the ultimate timing, outcome, and results of integrating the assets acquired in the Primexx Transaction.
Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties occur, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, our actual results and plans could differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. Additional risks or uncertainties that are not currently known to us, that we currently deem to be immaterial, or that could apply to any company could also materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, or future results. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of which such statement is made and the Company undertakes no obligation to correct or update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.
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In addition, we caution that reserve engineering is a process of estimating oil and natural gas accumulated underground and cannot be measured exactly. Accuracy of reserve estimates depend on a number of factors including data available at the point in time, engineering interpretation of the data, and assumptions used by the reserve engineers as it carefully.

relates to price and cost estimates and recoverability. New results of drilling, testing, and production history may result in revisions of previous estimates and, if significant, would impact future development plans. As such, reserve estimates may differ from actual results of oil and natural gas quantities ultimately recovered.

Except as required by applicable law, all forward-looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. This cautionary statement should also be considered in connection with any subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements that we or persons acting on our behalf may issue.

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WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
We file annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC (File No. 001-14039). The SEC maintains an Internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding registrants that file electronically with the SEC. The address of the site is http://www.sec.gov.
We also make available free of charge on our website, at www.callon.com under the “Investor” section, all of the documents that we file with the SEC as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file those documents with the SEC. Information contained on, or that can be accessed through, our website is not incorporated by reference into this Proxy Statement, and you should not consider such information as part of this Proxy Statement.
Information Incorporated by Reference
We “incorporate by reference” into this Proxy Statement certain information we file with the SEC, which means that we can disclose important information to you by referring you to that information. The information incorporated by reference is considered to be part of this Proxy Statement, and later information that we file with the SEC will automatically update and supersede that information. We incorporate by reference the documents listed below and any future filings made by us with the SEC under Section 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, until the date of the Special Meeting (unless otherwise stated, other than information furnished under Items 2.02 or 7.01 of any Form 8-K, which is not deemed filed):
our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 filed on February 25, 2021;
our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the three months ended March 31, 2021 filed on May 6, 2021, and for the six months ended June 30, 2021 filed on August 4, 2021; and
our Current Reports on Form 8-K filed on March 16, 2021, April 16, 2021, May 11, 2021, May 14, 2021, June 21, 2021, June 22, 2021, July 7, 2021, July 23, 2021, August 5, 2021 and August 5, 2021.
Any statement contained in this Proxy Statement or in a document incorporated or deemed to be incorporated by reference in this Proxy Statement shall be deemed to be modified or superseded for purposes of this Proxy Statement to the extent that a statement contained herein or in any other subsequently filed document which also is or is deemed to be incorporated by reference modifies or supersedes the statement. Any statement so modified or superseded shall not be deemed, except as so modified or superseded, to constitute a part of this offering memorandum.
You may obtain any of the documents incorporated by reference in this Proxy Statement from the SEC through the SEC’s website at the address provided above. We will provide you a copy of this Proxy Statement or any or all of the information that has been incorporated by reference in this Proxy Statement (including exhibits to those documents specifically incorporated by reference in this document), at no cost, upon your written or oral request to us at the following address or telephone number:
Callon Petroleum Company
One Briarlake Plaza
2000 W. Sam Houston Parkway S., Suite 2000
Houston, TX 77042
Telephone: (281) 589-5200
Attn: Investor Relations
If you would like to request any documents, please do so by              , 2021, which is five business days prior to the date of the Special Meeting, in order to receive them before the meeting.
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THE ISSUANCE PROPOSAL
Overview and Reason for the Issuance Proposal
On August 3, 2021, the Company, entered into the Exchange Agreement by and among the Company and Kimmeridge, as holder of the Second Lien Notes. Pursuant to the Exchange Agreement, Kimmeridge agreed to exchange, on the Closing Date (as defined in the Exchange Agreement), $197.0 million in aggregate principal amount of Second Lien Notes held by Kimmeridge for 5,512,623 shares of New Common Stock (which equals a notional amount of approximately $223.1 million of New Common Stock as of August 3, 2021). Kimmeridge’s current holdings in the Company’s Second Lien Notes and all but 602,503 shares of Common Stock were obtained as part of concurrent transactions agreed to in September 2020 whereby Kimmeridge purchased Second Lien Notes, warrants for Common Stock, and an overriding royalty interest in substantially all Callon-operated oil and gas leaseholds as of the effective date of such transactions. Kimmeridge’s remaining shares of Common Stock were purchased in the open market.
The closing of the transactions pursuant to the Exchange Agreement is subject to various closing conditions, including (i) for purposes of complying with Rule 312.03(b), approval of the Company’s shareholders of the issuance of New Common Stock to Kimmeridge, (ii) the closing of the Primexx Transaction, (iii) approval by the NYSE of the listing of the New Common Stock, (iv) the accuracy of each party’s representations and warranties, subject to certain materiality qualifiers and (v) the absence of any injunctions or orders preventing the Exchange. If any of these conditions are not satisfied or waived, the transactions pursuant to the Exchange Agreement will not close and, as a result, (i) the New Common Stock will not be issued to Kimmeridge and (ii) $197.0 million of Second Lien Notes owned by Kimmeridge will remain outstanding.
The Exchange Agreement may be terminated (i) upon the mutual consent of the parties thereto, (ii) by either party if the Exchange has not been consummated by December 31, 2021 (the “Outside Date”), (iii) by either party in the event of an order, judgment or decree delaying the closing beyond the Outside Date and (iv) by either party if the other party materially breaches the Exchange Agreement.
The foregoing description of the Exchange Agreement is qualified in its entirety by reference to the Exchange Agreement, which is attached hereto as Annex A.
We are seeking shareholder approval of the Issuance Proposal in order to comply with Rule 312.03(b) with respect to the issuance of the New Common Stock pursuant to the Exchange Agreement. Our Common Stock is listed on the NYSE, and thus, we are subject to NYSE listing requirements. Under Rule 312.03(b), shareholder approval is required prior to any issuance or sale of common stock in any transaction or series of related transactions (i) to a Related Party if the number of shares of common stock to be issued exceeds either 1% of the number of shares of common stock or 1% of the voting power outstanding before the issuance or (ii) when a Related Party has a 5% or greater interest, directly or indirectly, in the company or in the consideration to be paid in the transaction or series of related transactions, and the present or potential issuance of common stock could result in an issuance that exceeds either 5% of the number of shares of common stock or 5% of the voting power outstanding before the issuance. Under Rule 312.04(e), a shareholder is presumed to be a “substantial security holder” (and therefore, a “Related Party” for purposes of Rule 312.03(b)) if it owns either 5% or more of the number of shares of common stock or 5% or more of the voting power outstanding of a NYSE listed company.
Due to Kimmeridge’s beneficial ownership of approximately 13.4% of our outstanding shares of Common Stock as of September 3, 2021, Kimmeridge is a Related Party for purposes of Rule 312.03(b). Upon consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Exchange Agreement, the Company would issue to Kimmeridge New Common Stock equal to approximately 9.9% of the Company’s then-outstanding Common Stock. As a result, the issuance of the New Common Stock pursuant to the Exchange Agreement is subject to shareholder approval for purposes of complying with Rule 312.03(b). Approval of the Issuance Proposal requires the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the votes cast with regard to the Issuance Proposal at the Special Meeting, if a quorum is present.
The terms of the Exchange Agreement were negotiated between the parties on an arms-length basis. Neither Kimmeridge nor any of its affiliated entities has Board representation or any other governance rights with respect to the Company. The value of Common Stock to be delivered was based on the construct of the optional
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redemption language in the Second Lien Notes Indenture. The price of the Common Stock used to calculate the Common Stock issued was based on the 10-day volume-weighted average price as of August 2, 2021, which was the 10-day period prior to execution of the Exchange Agreement.
The Exchange Agreement was unanimously approved by the Board upon the recommendation of the independent Nominating & ESG Committee of the Board, which is responsible for review of related party transactions for the Company.
The Board believes that the transactions contemplated by the Exchange Agreement will strengthen the Company’s financial position by accelerating deleveraging initiatives and reducing cash interest expense by approximately $20 million per year. In addition, the transactions will improve the standing of shareholders in the capital structure of the Company and enhance Callon’s access to debt capital markets, providing the opportunity for reductions in the corporate cost of capital.
The Voting Agreements
In connection with the execution of the Exchange Agreement, each of our executive officers and directors entered into the Voting Agreement. On the terms and conditions set forth in the Voting Agreement, our executive officers and directors agreed to vote all of the shares of Common Stock over which they have voting power (representing in the aggregate approximately 2% of the Company’s total outstanding voting power as of the Record Date) in favor of the Issuance Proposal. The foregoing description of the Voting Agreement is qualified in its entirety by reference to the Voting Agreement, which is attached hereto as Annex B.
Kimmeridge has also agreed, pursuant to the Exchange Agreement, to vote all of the shares of Common Stock for which it has voting power in favor of the Issuance Proposal. Additionally, Kimmeridge agreed, pursuant to the Exchange Agreement, not to transfer any Second Lien Notes and substantially all of the Common Stock beneficially held by it until the closing of the transactions pursuant to the Exchange Agreement, subject to certain exceptions, including (i) transfers of Common Stock to Affiliates who agree in writing to be bound by the Exchange Agreement and deliver an executed written agreement to that effect to the Company prior to such transfer, (ii) transfers of up to 500,000 shares of Common Stock, and (iii) transfers of Common Stock with the prior written consent the Company. As of September 3, 2021, Kimmeridge was the beneficial owner of 6,188,157 shares of Common Stock, representing approximately 13.4% of the Company’s total outstanding voting power. Additionally, pursuant to the purchase and sale agreements executed in connection with the Primexx Transaction, Primexx has also agreed to vote all shares of Common Stock over which they will have voting power (estimated to be 9.19 million shares, subject to purchase price adjustments pursuant to the purchase and sale agreements) in favor of the Issuance Proposal.
In the aggregate, the foregoing voting agreements represent approximately 16 million, or approximately 30%, of the shares anticipated to be outstanding on the Record Date.
Registration Rights Agreement
In connection with the execution of the Exchange Agreement and issuance of New Common Stock thereunder, the Company and Kimmeridge agreed to enter into a registration rights agreement (the “Registration Rights Agreement”) pursuant to which the Company is required to, subject to certain exceptions, prepare and file a registration statement under the Securities Act with the Securities and Exchange Commission, within three business days of the Closing Date (as defined in the Exchange Agreement), in order to permit the public resale of the New Common Stock. The Registration Rights Agreement will also include certain customary demand rights for underwritten offerings and piggyback rights.
RECOMMENDATION OF THE BOARD
THE BOARD RECOMMENDS A VOTE “FOR”
THE APPROVAL OF THE ISSUANCE PROPOSAL

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BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP OF SECURITIES
The following table sets forth beneficial ownership information with respect to our Common Stock as of September 3, 2021 for (i) each person known by us to beneficially own 5% or more of our outstanding Common Stock; (ii) each of ournamed executive officers (“NEOs”), (iii) each of our directors, and (iv) all of our directors and executive officers as of the Record Date, as a group. Unless otherwise noted, each person listed below has sole voting and investment power with respect to the shares of our Common Stock listed below as beneficially owned by the person. Information set forth in the table with respect to beneficial ownership of Common Stock has been obtained from filings made by the named beneficial owners with the SEC as of September 3, 2021, or, in the case of our executive officers and directors, has been provided to us by such individuals. As of September 3, 2021, the Company had 46,290,611 shares outstanding.
None of the shares beneficially owned by our executive officers or directors has been pledged as security for an obligation. Our Insider Trading Policy prohibits our executive officers and directors from holding Callon securities in a margin account or pledging Callon securities as collateral for a loan.
Beneficial Ownership
Name of Beneficial OwnerShares (#)Percent of Class
Holders of More Than 5%: (1)
Kimmeridge Energy Management Company, LLC(2)6,188,15713.4%
BlackRock, Inc.(3)4,415,3159.5%
JB Investments Management, LLC(4)3,055,2116.6%
Named Executive Officers:
Joseph C. Gatto, Jr.(5)75,457*
Kevin Haggard(6)
Jeffrey S. Balmer(7)8,480*
Michol L. Ecklund(8)9,482*
Gregory F. Conaway(9)34,289*
James P. Ulm, II(10)15,428*
Directors:
Frances Aldrich Sevilla-Sacasa(11)4,384*
Matthew R. Bob12,236*
Barbara J. Faulkenberry8,798*
Michael L. Finch9,081*
L. Richard Flury(12)33,895*
S. P. Johnson IV(13)150,094*
Larry D. McVay(14)24,635*
Anthony J. Nocchiero18,021*
James M. Trimble10,336*
Steven A. Webster(15)763,5961.6%
All Executive Officers and Directors as a Group (consisting of 16 persons)(16)
1,178,2122.5%
*Less than 1%.
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(1)Pursuant to the purchase and sale agreements executed in connection with the Primexx Transaction, Primexx Resource Development, LLC and BPP Acquisition, LLC are expected to receive an estimated 9.19 million shares, subject to purchase price adjustments pursuant to the purchase and sale agreements and the closing of the transactions contemplated thereby.
(2)Kimmeridge EMC, in its capacity as an investment adviser to Kimmeridge, exercises voting and investment control over the securities held by Kimmeridge. Kimmeridge EMC has shared voting and shared dispositive power over 5,585,654 shares. Kimmeridge does not have sole voting or sole dispositive power over any shares. Kimmeridge EMC’s address is 412 West 15 Street, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10011. This information is based on Kimmeridge EMC’s most recent Statement on Schedule 13G filed on March 5, 2021.
(3)BlackRock, Inc. (“BlackRock”), in its capacity as a parent holding company or control person for various subsidiaries (none of which individually owns more than 5% of our outstanding Common Stock), may be deemed to beneficially own the indicated shares. BlackRock has sole voting power over 4,404,928 shares and sole dispositive power over 4,415,315 shares. BlackRock does not have shared voting or shared dispositive power over any of the shares. BlackRock’s address is 55 East 52nd St., New York, NY 10055. This information is based on BlackRock’s most recent Statement on Schedule 13G filed on February 5, 2021.
(4)JB Investments Management, LLC (“JB Investments”), in its capacity as an investment adviser, may be deemed to beneficially own the indicated shares, along with JB Investments Fund III, L.P., JB Investments Parallel Fund III, L.P. (together with JB Investments Fund III, L.P., the “Funds”). JB Investments Fund III GP, LLC is the general partner of, and may be deemed to beneficially own securities owned by the Funds. Mr. Brian J. Riley is the sole manager of, and may be deemed to beneficially own securities owned by JB Investments. JB Investments has shared voting and shared dispositive power over 3,055,211 shares. JB Investment’s address is 355 Valley Park Road, Phoenixville, PA 19460. This information is based on JB Investment’s most recent Statement on Schedule 13G filed on May 10, 2021.
(5)Comprised of 68,844 shares held directly by Mr. Gatto and 6,613 shares held indirectly within the 401(k) Plan. Does not include 92,278 unvested restricted stock units (“RSUs”) payable in stock and 104,896 unvested performance stock units (“PSUs”) payable in 50% stock and 50% cash.
(6)    Mr. Haggard holds has 32,406 unvested RSUs.
(7)    Comprised of 8,467 shares held directly by Dr. Balmer and 13 shares held indirectly within the 401(k) Plan. Does not include 44,604 unvested RSUs payable in stock and 47,412 unvested PSUs payable in 50% stock and 50% cash.
(8)Comprised of 9,422 shares held directly by Ms. Ecklund and 60 shares held indirectly within the 401(k) Plan. Does not include 27,847 unvested RSUs payable in stock and 29,152 unvested PSUs payable in 50% stock and 50% cash.
(9)Comprised of 34,829 shares held directly by Mr. Conaway. Does not include 13,316 unvested RSUs payable in stock and 8,046 unvested PSUs payable in 50% stock and 50% cash.
(10)    Comprised of 15,371 shares held directly by Mr. Ulm and 57 shares held indirectly within the 401(k) Plan.
(11)Comprised of 4,384 shares held directly by Ms. Aldrich Sevilla-Sacasa, which includes 2,037 vested deferred RSUs, pursuant to Ms. Aldrich Sevilla-Sacasa’s election under the Deferred Compensation Plan for Outside Directors, which are payable in cash upon her separation of service as a director. Does not include 3,240 unvested deferred RSUs, pursuant to Ms. Aldrich Sevilla-Sacasa’s election under the Deferred Compensation Plan for Outside Directors, which are payable in cash upon her separation of service as a director.
(12)Comprised of 30,895 shares held directly by Mr. Flury and 3,000 shares held in a joint tenancy with his spouse, which includes 15,559 vested deferred RSUs, pursuant to Mr. Flury’s election under the Deferred Compensation Plan for Outside Directors, which are payable in cash upon his separation of service as a director.
(13)Comprised of 80,094 shares held directly by Mr. Johnson and 70,000 shares held indirectly with a Family Limited Partnership, which includes 15,229 vested deferred RSUs, pursuant to Mr. Johnson’s election under the Deferred Compensation Plan for Outside Directors, which are payable in cash upon his separation of service as a director.
15


(14)Comprised of 24,635 shares held directly by Mr. McVay, which includes 3,501 vested deferred RSUs, pursuant to Mr. McVay’s election under the Deferred Compensation Plan for Outside Directors, which are payable in cash upon his separation of service as a director.
(15)Comprised of 549,721 shares held directly by Mr. Webster, 64,500 shares held indirectly with his spouse, and 149,375 shares held indirectly through San Felipe Resources Company, which includes 13,192 vested deferred RSUs, pursuant to Mr. Webster’s election under the Deferred Compensation Plan for Outside Directors, which are payable in Common Stock upon his separation of service as a director.
(16)    Comprised of 884,594 shares held directly by the Company’s executive officers and directors, 3,000 shares held in a joint tenancy, 64,500 shares held indirectly by a spouse, 70,000 shares held indirectly by a Family Limited Partnership, 6,743 shares held indirectly within the Company’s 401(k) Plan, and 149,375 shares held indirectly by San Felipe Resources Company.

16


OTHER MATTERS
Requirements, including Deadlines, for Submission of Proxy Proposals, Nomination of Directors and Other Business of Shareholders
In order for a proposal to be considered for inclusion in the proxy statement for the 2022 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the “2022 Annual Meeting”) pursuant to Rule 14a-8 of the Exchange Act, such proposal must be received by the Secretary of the Company at our principal executive offices no later than December 10, 2021 (assuming the date of the 2022 Annual Meeting has not been changed by more than 30 days from the date of the 2021 Annual Meeting of Shareholders), and must otherwise be in compliance with the requirements of the SEC’s proxy rules. If the date of the 2022 Annual Meeting has been changed by more than 30 days from the date of this Annual Meeting, then the deadline is a reasonable time before we begin to print and send our proxy materials for the 2022 Annual Meeting.
For a shareholder proposal to be introduced for consideration at the 2022 Annual Meeting but not intended to be considered for inclusion in the Company’s proxy statement and form of proxy relating to such meeting (i.e. not pursuant to Rule 14a-8 of the Exchange Act), including shareholder nominations for candidates for election as directors, a shareholder must provide written notice of such proposal to the Company not later than 120 days nor earlier than 150 days before the date of the 2022 Annual Meeting. Any such notice must describe the shareholder proposal in reasonable detail and otherwise comply with the requirements set forth in our bylaws.
Nominating Process
In accordance with our certificate of incorporation and bylaws, any shareholder may nominate a person for election to the Board upon delivery of written notice to us of such nomination. Such notice must be sent as provided in our certificate of incorporation and bylaws on or before the deadline set forth in our certificate of incorporation and bylaws and must otherwise comply with the procedures set forth in our certificate of incorporation. For nominations, the Board will consider individuals identified by shareholders on the same basis as nominees identified from other sources. A submission recommending a nominee should include:
Sufficient biographical information to allow the Nominating & ESG Committee to evaluate the qualifications of a potential nominee in light of the director nomination procedures and criteria and any other information that would be required to be disclosed in solicitations of proxies for the election of directors;
An indication as to whether the proposed nominee will meet the requirements for independence under NYSE and SEC guidelines;
A description of all direct and indirect compensation and other material monetary agreements, arrangements, and understandings during the past three years, and any other material relationships, between or among the nominating shareholder or beneficial owner and each proposed nominee;
A completed and signed questionnaire, representation, and agreement, pursuant to our bylaws, with respect to each nominee for election or re-election to the Board; and
The proposed nominee’s written consent to serve if nominated and elected.
Other than the Issuance Proposal described in this Proxy Statement, there are no other matters to be considered at the Special Meeting.
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List of Shareholders Entitled to Vote at the Special Meeting
The names of shareholders of record entitled to vote at the Special Meeting will be available at the Company’s principal office in Houston, Texas, for a period of ten (10) days prior to the Special Meeting and continuing through the Special Meeting.
Expenses Relating to this Proxy Solicitation
The Board will primarily solicit proxies by mail, and we will bear all costs incurred in the solicitation of proxies, including the preparation, printing and mailing of these proxy materials. In addition to solicitation by mail, our Directors,directors, officers and employees may solicit proxies personally or by telephone, email, facsimile or other means, without additional compensation. We may also make arrangements with brokerage houses and other custodians, nominees and fiduciaries for the forwarding of solicitation material to the beneficial owners of the common stockCommon Stock held by such persons, and we may reimburse those brokerage houses and other custodians, nominees and fiduciaries for reasonable expenses incurred in connection therewith. In addition, to assist us with our solicitation efforts, we have retained the services of Morrow & Co., LLCInnisfree M&A Incorporated for a fee of approximately $7,500,$15,000, plus out-of-pocket expenses.

INFORMATION ABOUT VOTING AND THE MEETING

Who may vote

You may vote if you are the record

18


ANNEX A
Execution Version
EXCHANGE AGREEMENT

THIS EXCHANGE AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) is made and entered into as of August 3, 2021 (the “Execution Date”) by and among Callon Petroleum Company, a Delaware corporation (the “Company”) and Chambers Investments, LLC a Delaware limited liability company (“Kimmeridge”) as holder of ourthe Company’s 9.00% Second Lien Senior Secured Notes due 2025 (the “Second Lien Notes”), issued pursuant to the Indenture, dated as of September 30, 2020 (the “Second Lien Notes Indenture”), by and among the Company, the subsidiary guarantors named therein and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee and collateral agent (in such capacity, the “Second Lien Notes Trustee”).
RECITALS
WHEREAS, subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein, the Company desires to issue to Kimmeridge, in exchange for the Exchanged Notes (as defined herein), new shares of common stock, par value $0.01, of the Company (the “Common Stock”), and grant certain registration rights to Kimmeridge pursuant to the registration rights agreement substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A (the “Registration Rights Agreement”).
NOW, THEREFORE, subject to the premises and other conditions contained herein, the parties hereto hereby agree as follows:
ARTICLE I
EXCHANGE OF NOTES
Section 1.1    Exchange of Exchanged Notes.
(a)    Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement, at the Closing, Kimmeridge shall assign, transfer and deliver to the Company all of its right, title and interest in and to all of the Second Lien Notes held by Kimmeridge as of the closedate hereof, as set forth on Schedule I hereto (the “Exchanged Notes”), free and clear of business on March 18, 2016,any Lien (as defined herein).
(b)    Subject to the “Record Date.” On that date, 96,122,341terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement, at the Closing, the Company shall issue and deliver to Kimmeridge, which shall be deemed in full satisfaction of all obligations of the Company under the Exchanged Notes, including in respect of any accrued and unpaid interest, 5,512,623 shares of our common stock were outstanding and areCommon Stock (such shares the “New Common Stock”). For the avoidance of doubt, Kimmeridge will be entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting. Each share of common stockinterest payment that is due on October 1, 2021, and shall not be entitled to any cash payment for accrued interest after such date.
(c)    The Company is entitled to one vote on each matter considered atdeduct and withhold from the consideration otherwise payable by or deliverable by the Company to Kimmeridge in connection with the
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transactions contemplated by this meeting.

AttendingSection 1.1 such amounts as are required to be withheld under the Meeting

If you meetInternal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), or other applicable law. Any amount properly deducted and withheld and timely remitted to the above criteriaappropriate taxing authority shall be treated for all purposes of this Agreement as having been paid to vote at our Annual Meeting, you may attend the Annual Meeting. If you wish to attend the Annual MeetingKimmeridge in person, you must present valid, government-issued picture identification. If your shares are heldrespect of which such deduction and withholding was made. Except in the namecase of any withholding required as a bank, brokerresult of Kimmeridge’s failure to comply with Section 2.2(d), the Company shall use commercially reasonable efforts to notify Kimmeridge of its intention to withhold or other nominee and you plandeduct from the consideration payable or deliverable to attendKimmeridge at least two (2) Business Days prior to the Annual Meeting, in order to be admitted you must present proof of your beneficial ownershipdate of the common stock,applicable payment or delivery, which notice shall include a statement of the amounts it intends to withhold or deduct in respect of the applicable payment or delivery and the applicable provision of law requiring such withholding or deduction. To the extent any such withholding or deduction is required by law, the parties hereto shall cooperate in good faith to reduce or otherwise eliminate any such withholding or deduction.

(d)    The transactions contemplated by this Section 1.1 are referred to herein as a bankthe “Exchange.”
ARTICLE II
CLOSINGS
Section 2.1    Closing. Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement, the closing of the Exchange will take place two Business Days following the satisfaction or brokerage account statement, indicating that you owned shareswaiver of our common stockthe conditions set forth in Article V hereof or at such time as the Company and Kimmeridge mutually agree upon in writing, at the closeoffices of businessKirkland & Ellis LLP, 609 Main Street, Houston, Texas 77002 (which time and place are designated as the “Closing” and which day is referred to herein as the “Closing Date”).
Section 2.2    Closing Deliverables. On the Closing Date:
(a)    Kimmeridge shall deliver to the Second Lien Notes Trustee customary closing documentation relating to the cancelation of the Exchanged Notes, duly executed and delivered by Kimmeridge;
(b)    the Company shall deliver to Kimmeridge evidence that the New Common Stock has been issued to Kimmeridge, in accordance with Section 1.1 and the allocations set forth on Schedule I hereto, in book-entry form which such entry shall include customary restrictive legends;
(c)    Kimmeridge shall effect through, the Record Date.

For safetyfacilities of the DTC, the delivery to the Company (or its trustee or designee) of the Exchanged Notes and security reasons, no cameras, recording equipment, cellular telephones, electronic devices, large bags, briefcases or packages will be permitted in the Annual Meeting. No banners, signs, firearms or weapons will be allowed in the meeting room. We reserve the right to inspect all items entering the meeting room.

5


Proposals

Qualifying stockholders will vote on the following four proposals at the meeting:

1)

The election of Directors;

2)

Advisory approval of our executive compensation;

3)

The approval of an amendment to the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of Common Stock from 150 million to 300 million; and

4)

The ratification of the appointment of Grant Thornton LLP.

Noticeother documents and Access

Rules adoptedinstruments reasonably requested by the SecuritiesCompany to effect the transfer and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") allow companies to send stockholders a noticecancellation of internet availability of proxy materials (the “Notice”), rather than mail stockholders full sets of proxy materials, often referred to as “notice and access.” Consistent with the past few years, we have elected to send a separate Notice to our stockholders instead of a paper copy of the proxy materials. This approach conserves natural resources and reduces the costs of printing and distributing our proxy materials, while providing stockholders with a convenient way to access our proxy materials. This Notice includes instructions on how to access the proxy materials over the Internet or to request a paper copy of proxy materials, including a proxy card or voting instruction form. In addition and as described in the Notice, stockholders may request to receive future proxy materials in printed form by mail or electronically by email. A stockholder’s election to receive proxy materials by mail or email will remain in effect until terminated by the stockholder.

Our Board has made these proxy materials available to you on the Internet on or about April 1, 2016 at https://www.iproxydirect.com/CPE, which is the cookies-free website described in the Notice. Accordingly, we are sending the Notice to our stockholders of record and beneficial owners of our stock, and filing the Notice with the SEC, on or about April 1, 2016. Please note that the Notice identifies the items on which stockholders will vote at the meeting, but stockholders cannot vote by marking the Notice and returning it. The Notice provides instructions on how to vote via the Internet, by telephone or by requesting and returning a paper proxy card, or by submitting a ballot in person at the meeting.

In additionsuch Exchanged Notes to the proxy materials being available for review at https://www.iproxydirect.com/CPE, the site contains instructions on how to access the proxy materials on a website or to request free of charge printed materials, including a copy of our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 as filed with the SEC. On an ongoing basis, stockholders may contact our Corporate Secretary at our principal offices in Natchez, Mississippi to request proxy materials by mail or by e-mail.

Casting your vote

There are three methods for registered stockholders to vote by proxy without attending the Annual Meeting:

1)

By Internet. You can vote online via the Internet by going to the website address for Internet voting provided on your Notice or proxy card. You will need to use the control and request ID appearing on your proxy card to vote via the Internet. You can use the Internet to transmit your voting instructions up until 11:59 p.m. CDT on May 11, 2016. If you vote via the Internet, you do NOT need to vote by telephone or return a proxy card. Internet voting is available 24 hours a day.

2)

By Telephone. You can also vote by telephone by calling the toll-free telephone number provided on your proxy card. You will need to use the control and request ID appearing on your proxy card to vote by telephone. You may transmit your voting instructions from any touch-tone telephone up until 11:59 p.m. CDT on May 11, 2016. Voting by telephone is available 24 hours a day.

3)

By Mail. If you received a printed copy of the proxy card, you can vote by marking, dating and signing it, and returning it in the reply envelope provided. Please promptly mail your proxy card to ensure that we receive it prior to the closing of the polls at the Annual Meeting.

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If you get more than one Notice and/or proxy statement then it means that your shares are likely registered in more than one account. Please provide voting instructions for all Notices, proxy and voting instruction cards you receive. If you send us a signed proxy card without marking your voting selections, your shares will be voted on each proposal as recommended by our Board, and in the discretion of the proxy holders as to any other matters that may properly come before the meeting or any postponement or adjournment of the meeting. The Board is not presently aware of any other proposals or any other business to be considered at the Annual Meeting.

If your shares are registered in the name of a broker, bank or other nominee (typically referred to as being held in “Street Name”), you will receive instructions from your broker, bank or other nominee that you must follow in order for your broker, bank or other nominee to vote your shares per your instructions. Many brokerage firms and banks have a process for their beneficial holders to provide instructions via the Internet or over the telephone. If Internet or telephone voting is unavailable from your broker, bank or other nominee, please complete and return the enclosed voting instruction card in the addressed, postage paid envelope provided.

In the event you do not provide instructions on how to vote shares held in Street Name, your broker may have authority to vote your shares. Under the rules that govern brokers who are voting with respect to shares that are held in Street Name, brokers have the discretion to vote such shares on routine matters, but they are not permitted to vote (a “broker non-vote”) on non-routine or non-discretionary items absent instructions from the beneficial owner. With respect to the Annual Meeting, brokers are prohibited from exercising discretionary authority in the election of Directors and the non-binding advisory proposal on executive compensation, but such brokers may exercise discretionary authority with respect to the amendment of our certificate of incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares and the ratification of the appointment of our independent registered public accounting firm. Your vote is especially important. Therefore, please promptly instruct your broker regarding how to vote your shares on these matters.

If you hold shares through a broker, bank or other nominee and wish to be able to vote in person at the meeting, you must obtain a legal proxy from your broker, bank or other nominee and present it to the inspector of election with your ballot at the meeting. If you need assistance in obtaining a legal proxy, please call Morrow & Co., LLC toll-free at (800) 414-4313. Submitting your proxy by mail will not affect your right to vote in person if you decide to attend the Annual Meeting.

Revoking a proxy

You may revoke or change a previously delivered proxy at any time before the meeting by delivering another proxy with a later date, by voting again via the Internet or by telephone, or by delivering written notice of revocation of your proxy to our Corporate Secretary at our principal offices in Natchez, Mississippi before the beginning of the meeting. You may also revoke your proxy by attending the meeting and voting in person, although attendance at the meeting will not necessarily revoke a valid proxy that was previously delivered. If you hold shares through a broker, bank or other nominee, you must contact that nominee to revoke any prior voting instructions. You also may revoke any prior voting instructions by voting in person at the meeting if you obtain a legal proxy as described above.

Recommendation of the Board

The Board unanimously recommends you vote “FOR” each of the proposals. A proxy that is properly completed and submitted will be voted at the Annual MeetingCompany in accordance with the instructionsterms hereof; and

(d)    Kimmeridge shall deliver to the Company, as applicable, a properly completed and duly executed Internal Revenue Service Form W-9 or applicable W-8 or other
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applicable tax forms to provide the information and certification necessary to minimize or avoid any withholding tax.
Section 2.3    Consummation of Closings. Subject to the satisfaction of all of the closing actions and deliverables set forth in Section 2.2 other than Section 2.2(d), all acts, deliveries and confirmations comprising the Closing, regardless of chronological sequence, will be deemed to occur contemporaneously and simultaneously on the proxy. If you properly complete and submit a proxy, but do not indicate any contrary voting instructions, your shares will be voted as follows:

·

date hereof.FOR” the election of each of the nominees named in this Proxy Statement to our Board of Directors;

·

FOR” the approval, on an advisory basis, of our executive compensation;

·

FOR” the approval of an amendment to the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of Common Stock from 150 million to 300 million; and

·

FOR” the ratification of the appointment of Grant Thornton LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2016

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CountingSection 2.4    No Transfer of Exchanged Notes after the Vote

We have appointed Issuer Direct to serve as the inspector of election and to tabulate and certify the vote.

Quorum

A quorum is the number of shares that must be present to hold the meeting. The quorum requirement for the meeting is a majorityExchange Closing; No Further Ownership Rights in Exchanged Notes. Upon consummation of the outstanding shares as of the Record Date, present in person or represented by proxy. WeExchange, all Exchanged Notes (or interests therein) exchanged pursuant to this Agreement will count your shares for purposes of determining ifcease to be transferable and there is a quorum if either you are present and vote in person at the meeting or have voted on the Internet, by telephone or by properly submitting a proxy card or voting instruction card by mail. Abstentions and broker non-votes also count toward the quorum.

Required Vote

Proposal 1. Election of Directors

The nominees for election as directors at the Annual Meeting who each receive a majority of the votes cast shall be elected, provided that ifno further registration of any transfer of any such Exchanged Notes or interests therein. From and after the number of director nominees at such meeting exceeds the number of directorsExchange, Kimmeridge will cease to be elected, the directors shall be elected by a plurality of the votes cast. Because the number of director nominees equals the number of directors to be elected at this Annual Meeting, to be elected, each director must receive a majority of the votes cast. A majority of the votes cast means that the number of shares voted “for” a director must exceed the number of shares voted “against” that director. Abstentions and broker non-votes will not be included in determining the number of votes cast in the election of directors and will not have any effect on the outcome.

Proposal 2. Advisory Vote to Approve Named Executive Officer Compensation

The advisory vote on our executive compensation is non-binding, so no specific vote is required. Abstentions will have the same effect as a vote against this proposal, and broker non-votes will not be counted as shares present and entitled to vote, and, accordingly, will not affect the outcome of the vote on this proposal. While the law requires this advisory vote, the vote will neither be binding on us or our Board, nor will it create or imply any change in the fiduciary duties of, or impose any additional fiduciary duty on, us or our Board. However, the views of our stockholders are important to us, and our Compensation Committee will take into account the outcome of the vote when considering future executive compensation decisions. We urge you to read the section entitled “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” (“CD&A”), which discusses in detail how our executive compensation program implements our compensation philosophy.

Proposal 3. Approval of the Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation 

Approval of the amendment to the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation requires the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of our Common Stock. We believe that the amendment to our certificate of incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares is a “routine matter” under the rules of the NYSE, so brokers will be permitted to vote shares for which they do not receive instructions from the beneficial owners.  An abstention and any broker non-votes will have the effect of a vote against this proposal.

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

Ratification of the appointment of Grant Thornton LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for the 2016 fiscal year requires the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares of common stock entitled to vote and present in person or by proxy at the Annual Meeting. Abstentions and broker non-votes will have the same effect as a vote against this proposal.

Voting Results

We will announce the preliminary voting results at the Annual Meeting and will publish the final voting results in a current report on Form 8-K to be filed with the SEC within four business days of the meeting.

8


PROPOSAL 1

ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

The Board currently consists of eight directors, and our Certificate of Incorporation provides for a classified Board. The current Board is divided into three classes designated as Class I, Class II and Class III, with staggered, three-year terms. The following table provides informationrights with respect to the nomineessuch Exchanged Notes, including in respect of any accrued and all current directors whose terms will continue after the 2016 Annual Meeting until the election and qualification of their respective successorsunpaid interest, except as otherwise provided for herein or until their earlier death, retirement, resignation or removal.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name

 

Age

 

Director Since

 

Position (Committee Memberships)

Class I Directors (term expires in 2016)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Larry D. McVay

 

68

 

2007

 

Director, Nominee (1,2,3,4)

John C. Wallace

 

77

 

1994

 

Director, Nominee (1,2,3,4)

Michael L. Finch

 

60

 

2015

 

Director, Nominee (3)

Class II Directors (term expires in 2017)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Anthony J. Nocchiero

 

64

 

2011

 

Director (1,2,3,4)

Matthew Regis Bob

 

58

 

2014

 

Director (3,4)

James M. Trimble

 

67

 

2014

 

Director (2,4)

Class III Directors (term expires in 2018)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fred L. Callon

 

66

 

1994

 

Director, Chairman of the Board, President, and Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”)

L. Richard Flury

 

68

 

2004

 

Director (1,2,3,4)

(1) Audit Committee

(2) Compensation Committee

(3) Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee

(4) Strategic Planning and Reserves Committee

Based on the recommendations from the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, our Board has nominated its current Class I Directors, Messrs. Larry D. McVay, John C. Wallace and Michael L. Finch, for election to our Board as Class I Directors, with a term of office expiring at our 2019 Annual Meeting, or, in each case, until the election and qualification of their respective successors or until their earlier death, retirement, resignation or removal. Mr. Wallace has expressed his intent to resign upon completionby applicable law. Upon consummation of the first two years of such three-year term.

Nominees

Exchange, the Exchanged Notes will be cancelled and will cease to be outstanding.

ARTICLE III
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF THE COMPANY
Larry D. McVayThe Company hereby represents and warrants to Kimmeridge that the statements contained in this Article III was appointed to the Board in October 2007. Mr. McVay has been a Managing Director of Edgewater Energy, LLC, a privately held oilare true and gas investment company, since 2007. From 2003 until 2006, he servedcorrect, except as Chief Operating Officer of TNK-BP Holding, one of the largest oil producing companies in Russia. From 2000 to 2003, he served as Technology Vice President and Vice President of Health, Safety and Environment for BP. He also led the global E&P Operations Excellence effort for improving the operating efficiency of BP’s upstream operations. Mr. McVay earned a mechanical engineering degree from Texas Tech University, where he was recognized as a Distinguished Engineer in 1995. In January 2008, Mr. McVay became a member of the board of directors of Praxair, Inc., an industrial gases company in North and South America, where he serves on the Audit Committee and is chairman of the Finance & Pension Committee. Mr. McVay is also a member of the board of directors of Chicago Bridge and Iron, N.V., a publicly traded engineering, procurement, and construction company, where he serves on the Audit Committee, the Strategic Initiatives Committee and is the chairman of the Corporate Governance Committee. Mr. McVay has been directly involved in nearly all aspects of the oil and gas industry, including drilling, production, finance, environmental risk, and safety. We believe that this experience and his knowledge of the oil and gas exploration and production (“E&P”) industry, particularlymay be disclosed in the Permian Basin, provides invaluable insight in the development of our long-term strategies.

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John C. WallaceCompany’s reports (the “ has been a member of our Board since 1994. Mr. Wallace has been retired since 2010. Mr. Wallace is a Chartered Accountant having qualified with PricewaterhouseCoopers in Canada in 1963, after which he joined Baring Brothers & Co., Limited in London, England. Prior to his retirement in December 2010, Mr. Wallace served for over twenty-five years as Chairman of Fred. Olsen Ltd., a London-based corporation that he joined in 1968 and which specializes in the business of shipping, renewable energy and property development. He received his B. Comm degree majoring in Accounting and Economics from McGill University in 1959. In November 2004, he successfully completed the International Uniform Certified Public Accountant Qualification Examination and has received a CPA Certificate from the State of Illinois. Mr. Wallace is also retired from the board of directors of Ganger Rolf ASA and Bonheur ASA, Oslo, both publicly-traded shipping companies with interests in offshore energy services and renewable energy. In May 2012, Mr. Wallace was appointed as a non-executive director to the board of directors of Siem Offshore Inc., a publicly traded shipping company in Norway with a fleet of vessels active in the offshore energy sector, and for which he is a member of the Audit Committee. In addition, Mr. Wallace serves as a Director of Secunda Holdings LP, a Canadian company, which is 50% owned by Siem Offshore Inc. As a result of his association with Fred Olsen, Ltd. and various associated or related companies, Mr. Wallace has extensive financial and accounting experience in not only the oil and gas industry, but in a number of other related industries qualifying him as “financial expert.” We believe that this experience and his unique perspective of the risks and rewards in the oil and gas industry will continue to be beneficial to us.

Michael L. Finch Company Reportswas elected to the Board at the 2015 Annual Meeting. He served as Chief Financial Officer and a member of the Board of Directors of Stone Energy Corporation from its initial public offering in 1993 until his resignation in 1999. He was affiliated with Stone in a variety of capacities for nineteen years. Prior to his service with Stone, he was employed by Arthur Andersen & Co. in New Orleans, Louisiana from 1976 to 1980. Mr. Finch has been a private investor since 1999. He was licensed as a Certified Public Accountant in 1978 (inactive status at present), and received a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of South Alabama in 1976. Currently, Mr. Finch is an independent director of Petroquest Energy, Inc., a publicly traded oil and gas company. Since his election to Petroquest’s Board in 2003, he has served as chairman of the Audit Committee, as a member of the Compensation Committee, and as a member of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. Mr. Finch has extensive financial and operating experience within our industry, and his background, prior experiences, professional credentials and expertise qualify him as a director and “financial expert”. Mr. Finch was initially appointed to our Board pursuant to a settlement agreement with Lone Star Value Management.

In February 2016, pursuant to an agreement with Lone Star Value Management LLC and certain of its related entities to, we agreed to nominate Michael L. Finch, Larry D. McVay and John C. Wallace as Class I nominees to the Board at the 2016 Annual Meeting, each to serve for a three (3) year term expiring in 2019; provided, however, that Mr. Wallace has expressed his intent to resign upon completion of the first two years of such three year term. The Company agreed that Mr. Finch would remain as a member of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and shall also be considered along with all other Board members for Board committee appointments in connection with the Board’s annual review of committee composition. Lone Star Value Management agreed to vote the shares it owns for the election of our director nominees.

In 2015, the Board amended our Corporate Governance Guidelines to adopt a majority voting policy in uncontested director elections. At any stockholder meeting for the election of directors at which a quorum is present, any nominee for director who receives a greater number of votes “withheld” from his or her election than votes “for” such election (“Majority Withheld Vote”) shall tender his or her resignation for consideration by the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee following certification of the stockholder vote, unless the number of nominees exceeds the number of directors to be elected as of the record date for such meeting, in which event the directors shall be elected by a plurality of the votes cast. Such resignation will only be effective upon Board acceptance of such resignation after receiving the recommendation of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee.

If a director nominee receives a Majority Withheld Vote, then, promptly following certification of the election results, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee will consider any factors it deems relevant to the best interests of the Company and our stockholders in determining whether to accept the director’s resignation and recommend to the Board the action to be taken with respect to the tendered resignation. Within 120 days following certification of the stockholder vote, the Board shall consider the recommendation and make a determination as to whether to accept or reject such

10


director’s resignation and shall notify the director concerned of its decision. We will also promptly publicly disclose the Board's decision and process in a periodic or current report filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission.

If you hold yourCommission (the “Commission”) and publicly available prior to the date of this Agreement (other than in the case of fraud or intentional misrepresentation or as set forth in any risk factor contained in the Company Reports):

Section 3.1    Organization and Good Standing. The Company is a corporation duly organized or formed, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of its state of incorporation and has all requisite corporate power and authority (a) to own and operate its properties, and to enter into this Agreement and the Registration Rights Agreement and perform its obligations hereunder and thereunder and (b) to issue and deliver the New Common Stock. The Company is duly qualified to do business and is in good standing in all jurisdictions wherein such qualification is necessary, except where failure so to qualify would not have a material adverse effect on the business, properties, operations, condition (financial or otherwise), prospects or results of operations of the Company, taken as a whole (a “Material Adverse Effect”).
Section 3.2    Due Authorization. The Company has all requisite power and authority (corporate, limited liability company and other) to execute, deliver and perform its obligations under this Agreement and the Registration Rights Agreement. This Agreement has been duly and validly authorized, executed and delivered by the Company and, assuming the due authorization, execution and delivery of Kimmeridge, constitutes a valid and legally binding obligation of the Company enforceable against, subject, as to enforcement, to bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization and other laws of general applicability relating to or affecting creditors’ rights and
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to general equity principles, whether considered in a proceeding in equity or at law (collectively, the “Enforceability Exceptions”).
Section 3.3    No Conflicts. The execution and delivery by the Company of this Agreement and the Registration Rights Agreement and consummation of the transactions contemplated herein and therein do not and will not (i) result in any violation of any terms of the organizational documents of the Company; (ii) conflict with or result in a breach by the Company of any of the terms or provisions of, or constitute a default under, any indenture, mortgage, deed of trust or other material agreement or instrument to which the Company is a party or by which the Company or any of its properties or assets is bound or affected or (iii) violate or contravene any applicable law, rule or regulation or any applicable decree, judgment or order of any court or arbitrator or regulatory or government or political subdivision thereof, whether federal, state, local or foreign, or any agency or instrumentality of any such government or political subdivision thereof (a “Governmental Body”) having jurisdiction over the Company or any of its properties or assets, except, in the case of (ii) and (iii), as would not reasonably be expected to, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect.
Section 3.4    No Consents Required. No consent, approval, authorization, order, registration or qualification of, or filing with, any such court or governmental agency or body is required for the execution, delivery and performance, as relevant, by the Company of this Agreement or the Registration Rights Agreement or the consummation of the transactions contemplated herein or therein, except for such consents, approvals, authorizations, registrations or qualifications: (i) as have been obtained and which are in full force and effect, (ii) as are required in connection with the filing with the SEC of the Proxy Statement in definitive form, (iii) as are required in connection with the filing with the SEC of such reports and other filings under, and such other compliance with, the Exchange Act and the Securities Act, and under state securities, takeover and “blue sky” laws, in each case as may be required in connection with this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby, (iv) as are required in connection with obtaining NYSE Stockholder Approval, (v) as are required in connection with obtaining approval of the listing of the New Common Stock to be issued pursuant to this Agreement, and (vi) such consents, approvals, authorizations, orders, registrations, qualifications or filings which if not obtained or made would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect.
Section 3.5    Capitalization. The authorized capital stock of the Company is (a) 78,750,000 shares throughof Common Stock and (b) 2,500,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share (the “Preferred Stock”). All of the outstanding capital stock of the Company has been duly authorized and validly issued and is fully paid and nonassessable. As of July 31, 2021, there were: (a) 46,290,613 shares of Common Stock outstanding and (b) no shares of Preferred Stock outstanding. As of July 31, 2021, the Company had (a) 919,975 shares of Common Stock reserved for issuance pursuant to outstanding restricted stock unit awards, (b) 338,098 shares of Common Stock reserved for issuance pursuant to outstanding performance stock unit awards, which includes the maximum number of shares issuable pursuant to such awards, (c) 1,589,450 shares of Common Stock authorized and available for issuance pursuant to future grants made under the Company’s equity incentive plan and (d) 1,066,380 shares of Common Stock reserved for future exercises of currently outstanding warrants. The Company has no shares of Common
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Stock reserved for issuance except for the shares of Common Stock referenced in the preceding sentence. The Company has good title to all outstanding capital stock or limited liability company interests of its subsidiaries, subject to Liens granted under the Company’s Credit Agreement, dated as of December 20, 2019, by and among the Company, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, and the lenders party thereto (as amended, the “Credit Agreement”), the Security Documents (as defined in the Second Lien Notes Indenture) and other liens permitted under the Credit Agreement, the Second Lien Notes Indenture, and all such capital stock or limited liability company interests are duly issued, fully paid and non-assessable, to the extent applicable. Except as disclosed in the Company Reports, as of the date of this Agreement, there are no preemptive or other outstanding rights, options, warrants, conversion rights, stock appreciation rights, redemption rights, repurchase rights, agreements, arrangements, calls, commitments or rights of any kind that obligate the Company to issue or sell any shares of capital stock or other equity securities of the Company or any securities or obligations convertible or exchangeable into or exercisable for, or giving any person a right to subscribe for or acquire, any equity securities of the Company, and no securities or obligations evidencing such rights are authorized, issued or outstanding. Except as disclosed in the Company Reports, as of the date of this Agreement, the Company does not have outstanding any bonds, debentures, notes or other obligations the holders of which have the right to vote (or convertible into or exercisable for securities having the right to vote) with the stockholders of the Company on any matter.
Section 3.6    No Violation or Default. Neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries is in (i) violation of its certificate of formation, certificate of incorporation, limited liability company agreement, bylaws or other equivalent organizational documents, (ii) breach or default (or an event which, with notice or lapse of time or both, would constitute such an event) in the performance or observance of any term, covenant or condition contained in any indenture, mortgage, deed of trust, loan agreement, lease or other agreement or instrument to which it is a party or by which it or any of its properties may be bound or (iii) violation of any statute or any order, rule or regulation of any court or governmental agency or body having jurisdiction over the Company or any of its subsidiaries or any of their properties and assets, except for, with respect to clauses (ii) and (iii), any such violation, breach or default that has not had, or would not reasonably be expected to, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect.
Section 3.7    Offering. Assuming the accuracy of the representations and warranties of Kimmeridge contained in Article IV, (i) the offer, issue, and delivery of the New Common Stock pursuant to this Agreement by the Company to Kimmeridge under this Agreement does not require registration under the Securities Act, (ii) the New Common Stock was not offered by any form of general solicitation or general advertising and (iii) the New Common Stock is not being offered in a manner involving a public offering under, or in a distribution in violation of, the Securities Act or any state securities laws.
Section 3.8     No Broker’s Fees. Neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries is a party to any contract, agreement or understanding with any person that would give rise to a valid claim against the Company or any of its subsidiaries for a brokerage commission, finder’s fee or like payment in connection with the Exchange. Kimmeridge is not required to pay any broker,
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finder or investment banker any brokerage, finder’s or other fee or commission with respect to the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement as a result of arrangements made the Company or any of its subsidiaries.
Section 3.9    No Other Representations or Warranties. Except for the representations and warranties contained in this Article III, neither the Company nor any Affiliate or representative of the Company has made or is making any representation or warranty of any kind or nature whatsoever, oral or written, express or implied with respect to the Company, this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby and the Company hereby disclaims any reliance on any representation or warranty of Kimmeridge or any Affiliate or representative thereof except for the representations and expressly set forth in Article IV.
ARTICLE IV
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF KIMMERIDGE
Kimmeridge hereby represents and warrants to the Company that the statements contained in this Article IV are true and correct:
Section 4.1    Organization and Good Standing. Kimmeridge is duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of its jurisdiction of formation or incorporation and has all requisite power and authority to enter into this Agreement and perform its obligations hereunder.
Section 4.2    Due Authorization. Kimmeridge has all requisite power and authority (corporate, limited liability company or other) to execute, deliver and perform its obligations under this Agreement. This Agreement has been duly and validly authorized, executed and delivered by Kimmeridge and will constitute a valid and binding obligation of Kimmeridge, enforceable against such Kimmeridge in accordance with its terms, except as such enforceability may be limited by Enforceability Exceptions.
Section 4.3    No Conflicts. The execution and delivery by Kimmeridge of this Agreement and consummation of the transactions contemplated herein do not and will not (i) result in any violation of any terms of the organizational documents of Kimmeridge; (ii) conflict with or result in a breach by Kimmeridge of any of the terms or provisions of, or constitute a default under, any indenture, mortgage, deed of trust or other material agreement or instrument to which Kimmeridge is a party or by which Kimmeridge or any of its properties or assets is bound or affected or (iii) violate or contravene any applicable law, rule or regulation or any applicable decree, judgment or order of any court or arbitrator or regulatory or Governmental Body having jurisdiction over Kimmeridge or any of its properties or assets, except, in the case of (ii) and (iii), as would not reasonably be expected to, individually or in the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on the business, properties, operations, financial condition or results of operations of Kimmeridge and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole.
Section 4.4    Ownership of Notes. Kimmeridge is, as of the date hereof, (i) the sole beneficial owner of the Exchanged Notes, the principal amount of which is set forth on Schedule I hereto, having the power to vote and dispose of such Exchanged Notes and
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(ii) entitled to all of the rights and economic benefits of such Exchanged Notes. There are no outstanding agreements, arrangements or understandings under which Kimmeridge may be obligated to transfer any of the Exchanged Notes, other than this Agreement.
Section 4.5    Ownership of Common Stock. Kimmeridge is, as of the date hereof, the sole beneficial owner of 5,585,654 shares of Common Stock, having the sole power to dispose of such shares Common Stock and vote such shares of Common Stock at any meeting of the stockholders of the Company. There are no outstanding agreements, arrangements or understandings under which Kimmeridge may be obligated to transfer such shares of Common Stock prior to the Closing Date.
Section 4.6    Transfers. Kimmeridge has made no prior assignment, sale, participation, grant, conveyance or other transfer of, and has not entered into any other agreement to assign, sell, participate, grant or otherwise transfer (except for Liens in favor of a broker dealer over property in an account with such dealer generally in which an encumbrance is released upon transfer), in whole or in part, any portion of its right, title or interests in the Exchanged Notes, subject to this Agreement, that is inconsistent with the representations and you dowarranties made in Section 4.4 or Section 4.5 hereof or that would render Kimmeridge otherwise unable to comply with its obligations under this Agreement.
Section 4.7    No Liens. The Exchanged Notes are not instructsubject to any Lien, except for Liens in favor of a broker dealer over property in an account with such dealer generally in which an encumbrance is released upon transfer. The execution and delivery of, and the broker how to vote, your brokerperformance by Kimmeridge of its obligations under, this Agreement, will not haveresult in the authority to vote your shares. Abstentions and broker non-votes will each be counted as present for purposescreation of determining the presence of a quorum, but will have no effectany Lien upon the outcomeExchanged Notes other than those arising hereunder. Upon the consummation of the vote. All sharesExchange, the Company will acquire the Exchanged Notes free and clear of common stock represented by the proxies will be voted “FOR” the electionany Lien other than Liens arising from acts of the above director nominees, except where authority to voteCompany, contemplated herein, provided for under the Credit Agreement or the Second Lien Notes Indenture or arising under applicable securities laws.
Section 4.8    Investment Experience. Kimmeridge has such knowledge and experience in financial and business affairs that Kimmeridge is capable of evaluating the merits and risks of an investment in the electionNew Common Stock. Kimmeridge is an “accredited investor,” within the meaning of directors has been withheld. ShouldRule 501 under the nominees become unableSecurities Act and a “qualified institutional buyer” as defined in Rule 144A under the Securities Act. Kimmeridge will acquire the New Common Stock for its own account, for investment, and not with a view to or unwilling to serve as a director at the timefor sale in connection with any distribution thereof in violation of the 2016 Annual Meeting,registration provisions of the person or persons exercising the proxies will vote for the election of substitute nominees designated by the Board,Securities Act or the Board may chooserules and regulations promulgated thereunder. Kimmeridge understands that the New Common Stock is being issued to reduceit in reliance on specific exemptions from the numberregistration requirements of membersUnited States federal and state securities laws and that the Company is relying upon the truth and accuracy of, and Kimmeridge’s compliance with, the Board to be elected at the 2016 Annual Meetingrepresentations, warranties, agreements, acknowledgments and understandings of Kimmeridge set forth herein in order to eliminatedetermine the vacancy. Your proxy cannotavailability of such exemptions and the eligibility of Kimmeridge to acquire the New Common Stock. Kimmeridge acknowledges that no representations, express or implied, are being made with respect to the Company, the New Common Stock, or otherwise in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, other than those expressly set forth herein.
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In making its decision to invest in the New Common Stock hereunder, Kimmeridge has relied upon independent investigations made by Kimmeridge and, to the extent believed by Kimmeridge to be otherwise votedappropriate, Kimmeridge’s representatives, including Kimmeridge’s own professional, tax and other advisors. Kimmeridge and its representatives have been given the opportunity to ask questions of, and to receive answers from, the Company and its representatives concerning the terms and conditions of the investment in the New Common Stock. Kimmeridge has reviewed, or has had the opportunity to review, all information it deems necessary and appropriate for its to evaluate the financial risks inherent in an investment in the New Common Stock and has had sufficient time to evaluate the transactions contemplated by the this Agreement. Kimmeridge understands that its investment in the New Common Stock involves a person whohigh degree of risk and that no Governmental Body having jurisdiction over such Investor or any of its subsidiaries or any of their properties and assets has passed on or made any recommendation or endorsement of the New Common Stock.
Section 4.9    Securities Law Matters. Kimmeridge has been advised by the Company and acknowledges that: (i) the offer and sale of the New Common Stock has not been registered under the Securities Act; and (ii) the offer and sale of the New Common Stock is not namedintended to be exempt from registration under the Securities Act pursuant to Section 4(a)(2) under the Securities Act. Kimmeridge is familiar with the Securities Act, as presently in effect, and understands the resale limitations imposed thereby.
Section 4.10    No Other Representations or Warranties. Except for the representations and warranties contained in this ProxyArticle IV, neither Kimmeridge nor any Affiliate or representative of Kimmeridge has made or is making any representation or warranty of any kind or nature whatsoever, oral or written, express or implied with respect to Kimmeridge, this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby and Kimmeridge hereby disclaims any reliance on any representation or warranty of the Company or any Affiliate or representative thereof except for the representations and expressly set forth in Article III.
ARTICLE V
CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO EXCHANGE
Section 5.1    Conditions Precedent to the Company’s Obligation to Consummate the Exchange. The obligation of the Company to consummate the Exchange at Closing is subject to the satisfaction or waiver (by the Company) of the following conditions:
(a)    Representations and Warranties. Each of the representations and warranties of Kimmeridge set forth in this Agreement shall be true and correct as of the date of this Agreement and as of the Closing Date as though made on and as of such date (except to the extent such representation or warranty speaks to a candidatespecific date, in which case, as of such specific date).
(b)    Performance; No Default. Kimmeridge shall have performed and complied in all material respects with all agreements and conditions contained in this Agreement required to be performed or complied with by it prior to or at the Closing Date.
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(c)    No Actions. No action suit or legal, administrative or arbitral proceeding or investigation (an “Action”) shall have been instituted (or be pending) by or before any court or governmental agency or body to restrain or prohibit this Agreement or the consummation of the Exchange. No preliminary or permanent injunction or other order issued by any federal or state court of competent jurisdiction preventing consummation of the Exchange shall be in effect.
(d)    Stockholder Approval. The Company shall have obtained NYSE Stockholder Approval for directorthe issuance of the New Common Stock to Kimmeridge pursuant to this Agreement.
Section 5.2    Conditions Precedent to Kimmeridge’s Obligation to Consummate the Exchange. The obligation of Kimmeridge to consummate the Exchange at Closing is subject to the satisfaction or forwaiver (by Kimmeridge) of the following conditions:
(a)    Representations and Warranties. Each of the representations and warranties of the Company set forth in this Agreement shall be true and correct as of the date of this Agreement and as of the Closing Date as though made on and as of such date (except to the extent such representation or warranty speaks to a greater numberspecific date, in which case, as of persons thansuch specific date).
(b)    Performance; No Default. The Company shall have performed and complied in all material respects with all agreements and conditions contained in this Agreement required to be performed or complied with by the numberCompany prior to or at the Closing Date.
(c)    Officer’s Certificate. Kimmeridge shall have received a certificate, dated as of director nominees named. The Board has no reason to believethe Closing Date, of an Officer of the Company, certifying that the nominees willconditions specified in Section 5.2(a) and Section 5.2(b) have been fulfilled.
(d)    No Actions. No Actions shall have been instituted (or be unablepending) by or unwillingbefore any court or governmental agency or body to serve if elected.

restrain or prohibit this Agreement or the consummation of the Exchange. No preliminary or permanent injunction or other order issued by any federal or state court of competent jurisdiction preventing consummation of the Exchange shall be in effect.

THEBOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE “(e)    FORStockholder Approval” THE THREE NOMINEES.. The Company shall have obtained NYSE Stockholder Approval for the issuance of the New Common Stock to Kimmeridge pursuant to this Agreement.

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(f)    NYSE SLAP. The Company has delivered to Kimmeridge a fully executed “Supplemental Listing Application” approving the shares of New Common Stock for listing by the NYSE.
(g)    Registration Rights Agreement. The Registration Rights Agreement shall have been executed and delivered by the parties thereto and shall be in full force and effect.
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Directors Continuing in Office

Biographical information for our other directors continuing in office is


(h)    Primexx Acquisition. The Company shall have consummated the transactions contemplated by (i) that certain purchase and sale agreement, dated as follows:

Fred L. Callon has been Chairman of our Board since May 2004the date hereof, by and our President and Chief Executive Officer since January 1997. Prior to January 1997, he was our President and Chief Operating Officer, positions he had held with us or our predecessors since 1984. He has been employed by us or our predecessors since 1976. Mr. Callon graduated from Millsaps College in 1972 and received his M.B.A. degree fromamong the Wharton School of Finance in 1974. Following graduation and until his employment byCompany, Callon Petroleum Operating Company he was employed by Peat, Marwick, Mitchell & Co., certified public accountants. He is sonand Primexx Resource Development, LLC and (ii) that certain purchase and sale agreement, dated as of the late Sim C.date hereof, by and among the Company, Callon one of our co-founders,Petroleum Operating Company and BPP Acquisition LLC.

ARTICLE VI
CERTAIN COVENANTS AND AGREEMENTS
Section 6.1    NYSE Stockholder Approval. The Company shall use its reasonable best efforts to take, or cause to be taken, all actions and to do, or cause to be done, all things reasonably necessary or advisable to obtain, as promptly as reasonably practicable, stockholder approval (“NYSE Stockholder Approval”) under the nephewstockholder approval rules contained in Rule 312.03(b) of the late John S. Callon,New York Stock Exchange Listed Company Manual, for the other co-founder. We believe that Mr. Callon’s strong financial background, combined with his longevity with usissuance of the New Common Stock to Kimmeridge pursuant to this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, within 30 days following the date hereof, the Company shall prepare and many years of operational experience in the E&P industry throughout changing conditions in the market, provide himfile with the ability to successfully lead us forward.

L. Richard Flury was appointed toCommission a proxy statement in preliminary form containing the Boardinformation specified in 2004. Mr. Flury has been retired since 2001. Prior to 2001, he spent over 30 years with Amoco Corporation, and later, BP plc, most recently as Chief Executive, Gas and Power and Renewables. Prior to Amoco's merger with BP in 1998, he served in various executive positions, including Chief Executive for Worldwide Exploration and Production and Executive Vice PresidentSchedule 14A of Amoco Corporation. Mr. Flury was a member of the Board of QEP Resources, Inc., a publicly traded oil and gas exploration company, from 2010 until 2015, and is also a director and the non-executive Chairman of Chicago Bridge and Iron Company, N.V., a publicly-traded engineering, procurement and construction company. He is a graduate of the University of Victoria (Canada). Mr. Flury has many years of prior experience with a major oil and gas company, as well as continued involvement in the industry through his other directorship positions. Mr. Flury’s vast experience and extensive knowledge of the E&P industry, together with his executive-level perspective and strategy-making abilities, strengthen the Board’s collective qualifications, skills and experience, and will continue to prove very beneficial to us.

Anthony J. Nocchiero, was first elected to the Board in March 2011. Since 2010, Mr. Nocchiero has been retired. From April 2007 until September 2010, Mr. Nocchiero held the position of senior vice president and Chief Financial Officer for CF Industries, Inc. From July 2005 until March 2007, he was the vice president and Chief Financial Officer for Merisant Worldwide, Inc. From January 2002 to July 2005, Mr. Nocchiero was self-employed as an advisor and private consultant. From January 1999 until December 2001, Mr. Nocchiero served as vice president and Chief Financial Officer of BP Chemicals, the global petrochemical business of BP p.l.c. Prior to that, he spent twenty-four years with Amoco Corporation in various financial and management positions, including service as Amoco’s vice president and controller from April 1998 to January 1999. Mr. Nocchiero holds a B.S. degree in chemical engineering from Washington University in St. Louis and an M.B.A. degree from the Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University. Mr. Nocchiero has previous experience serving as a member of the board of directors of various public and private companies, including Terra Nitrogen LP, Keytrade AG, Vysis Corporation and the Chicago Chamber of Commerce. He brings to Callon a broad knowledge of the oil and gas industry, as well as extensive experience with finance and M&A related transactions, which we believe benefits the Board. In addition, Mr. Nocchiero has the accounting or financial management expertise to be considered a “financial expert” as defined and required by the NYSE rules and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, in connection with obtaining NYSE Stockholder Approval (the “Exchange Act”Proxy Statement” and such proposal to be approved by the Company’s stockholders, the “Related Party Issuance Proposal).

Matthew Regis Bob was elected The Company shall cooperate and provide Kimmeridge with a reasonable opportunity to review and comment on the Board at the 2014 Annual Meeting. Mr. Bob has been the founderProxy Statement (including each amendment or supplement thereto) and Managing Member of MB Explorationall responses to requests for additional information by and affiliated companies since 1994. MB Exploration is engaged in the oil and gas exploration, development and consulting business. Effective August 1, 2014, Mr. Bob was appointed President of Eagle Oil and Gas. Mr. Bob also served as President of Hall Phoenix Energy LLC, a privately held oil and gas company, from 2009replies to 2011. Prior to forming MB Exploration in 1994, Mr. Bob was Chief Geophysicist at Pitts Oil Company. He began his career at Union Oil Company of California where he held various geological positions. He is a membercomments of the American AssociationSEC, including the proposed final version of Petroleum Geologists,any such document or responses, prior to filing such documents with the Society of Exploration GeophysicistsSEC, and the Dallas Petroleum Club, and is a registered Geoscientist in the States of Texas, Mississippi and Louisiana. He holds a B.A. in Geology from St. Louis University, an M.S. in Geology from Memphis University, and is a graduate of Harvard University's Executive Management Program. We believe Mr. Bob’s extensive experience in the oil and gas business and his technical expertise are a benefitCompany will give reasonable consideration to the Board of Directors. Mr. Bob was initially appointed to our Board pursuant to a settlement agreement with Lone Star Value Management.

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James M. Trimble was elected to our Board at the 2014 Annual Meeting. Mr. Trimble was Chief Executive Officer and President of PDC Energy, Inc. from 2011 until his resignation effective January 1, 2015, and has served on the board of PDC since 2009. Mr. Trimble was an officer of PDC in September 2013 when twelve partnerships for which PDC was the managing general partner each filed for bankruptcy in the federal bankruptcy court, Northern District of Texas, Dallas Division. From 2005 until 2010, Mr. Trimble was Managing Director of Grand Gulf Energy, Limited, a public company traded on the Australian Securities Exchange, and President and Chief Executive Officer of Grand Gulf’s U.S. subsidiary Grand Gulf Energyall comments reasonably proposed by Kimmeridge. The Company LLC, an exploration and development company focused primarily on drilling in mature basins in Texas, Louisiana and Oklahoma. From 2000 through 2004, Mr. Trimble was Chief Executive Officer of Elysium Energy and then TexCal Energy LLC, both of which were privately held oil and gas companies that he managed through workouts. Prior to this, he was Senior Vice President of Exploration and Production for Cabot Oil and Gas, a publicly traded independent energy company. Mr. Trimble was hired in July 2002 as CEO of TexCal (formerly Tri-Union Development) to manage a distressed oil and gas company through bankruptcy, and that company filed for Chapter 11 reorganization within 45 days after the date that Mr. Trimble accepted such employment. He successfully managed the company through its exit from bankruptcy in 2004. From November 2002 until May 2006 he also served as a director of Blue Dolphin Energy, an independent oil and gas company with operations in the Gulf of Mexico. Mr. Trimble currently serves on the Board of Directors of Seisgen Exploration LLC, a small private exploration and production company operating in southern Texas. Mr. Trimble is a Registered Professional Engineer who brings many years of oil and gas industry executive management experience to the Board, including experience as a chief executive officer, and knowledge of current developments and best practices in the industry. Mr. Trimble was initially appointed to our Board pursuant to a settlement agreement with Lone Star Value Management.

All of our Directors are United States citizens, except Mr. Wallace, who is a citizen of Canada, and Mr. Flury, who holds both U.S. and Canadian citizenship.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Board of Director Structure and Responsibilities

General. Our Board is responsible for determining the ultimate direction of our business, determining the principles of our business strategy and policies, and promoting the long-term interests of the Company. The Board of Directors possesses and exercises oversight authority over our business but, subject to our governing documents and applicable law, delegates day-to-day management of the Company to our Chief Executive Officer and our executive management. The Board generally fulfills its responsibilities through regular quarterly meetings to review significant developments affecting us and to act on matters requiring Board approval. Between regularly scheduled meetings, the Board may also hold special meetings, execute unanimous written consents, and participate in telephone conference calls when an important matter requires Board action. During 2015, our Board met formally five times and transacted business on twelve occasions during the year by unanimous written consent. All of our directors attended each of the Board meetings either in person or by telephone. In addition, to promote open discussion, the non-employee directors meet in executive session without management following each quarterly board meeting. The chairperson of such executive sessions is the chairperson of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee unless, at the first executive session held in each fiscal year, the independent directors select a different independent director to serve as the chairperson for all executive sessions held during that fiscal year. L. Richard Flury, Chairman of the Compensation Committee, was selected to preside over all executive sessions during 2015. It is the policy of the Board that, to the extent possible, all directors attend the annual meeting. All then current directors attended the 2015 annual meeting.

The Board, in consultation with the Nominating and Governance Committee, has determined that a classified board structure continues to be appropriate for us, particularly in an industry where long-term strategic planning is critical for the successful exploration, development and production of oil and natural gas resources. Our future success depends in significant part on the in-depth knowledge of our business and operations by our directors. We believe that a classified board promotes stability, continuity and experience among our directors, which is essential to developing and implementing long-term strategies, while resisting the pressure to focus on short-term results at the expense of enhancing long-term value and success. A classified board increases the stability of the Company and encourages a long-term corporate perspective, which promotes long-term stockholder value.

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Director Independence. It is a policy of the Board that a majority of the non-employee members of the Board be independent. Currently the only member of our Board who is not independent is our Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer. In accordance with the standards for companies listed on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) and the rules and regulations promulgated by the SEC, as well as our Corporate Governance Guidelines, the Board considers a director to be independent if it has affirmatively determined that the director has no material relationship with the Company that could compromise his ability to exercise independent judgment in carrying out his responsibilities. The Board makes independence determinations when it approves director nominees for election at the annual meeting and also whenever a new director joins the Board between annual meetings. The Board reviewed the independence of its directors and nomineeswill take, in accordance with applicable law, the standards described above,NYSE listing rules and affirmatively determined that eachits certificate of incorporation and bylaws, all action necessary to call, hold and convene a special meeting of its directorsstockholders to consider and nominees (other than Mr. Callon) is independent. The Board will evaluatevote upon the independence of each non-employee director on an ongoing basis.

Board Leadership Structure. OneRelated Party Issuance Proposal as promptly as reasonably practicable after the filing of the Board’s key responsibilities is determining the appropriate leadership structure for the Board, which helps ensure its effective and independent oversight of management on behalf of the our stockholders. Our Board understands that there is no one generally accepted approach to providing board leadership and that given the dynamic and competitive environmentProxy Statement in which we operate, the optimal board leadership structure may vary as circumstances warrant. To this end, our Board has no policy mandating the combination or separation of the roles of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, but periodically discusses and considers the structure as circumstances change. Mr. Fred L. Callon serves as our Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer. The Board believes its current structure, including the combined CEO and Chairman role, best serves the interests of our stockholders and is efficient and cost effective for the size of our company and the independent E&P industry. The CEO is uniquely positioned to provide the greatest insight into our performance, opportunities and challenges and is most capable of effectively identifying and executing the business strategy adopted by our Board. The Board believes that combining the Chairman and CEO roles fosters accountability, effective decision-making and alignment on the execution of the long-term corporate strategy.

The Board is currently comprised of eight directors, of which seven are independent. Independent directors and management generally have different perspectives and roles in strategy development. Our independent directors have backgrounds in the oil and gas industry allowing them to uniquely contribute their relevant experience, oversight, objectivity and expertise to Callon, which compliments the CEO’s comprehensive, company-specific perspective, experience and expertise. As the director having primary responsibility for managing our daily operations and identifying strategic priorities, the CEO is best positioned to lead the Board through reviews of key business and strategy decisions. This dynamic effectively promotes the opportunity for a successful blend of our independent directors’ perspectives and oversight responsibilities and facilitates information flow and communication between senior management and the Board, which are both essential to effective governance. The Board’s structure does not currently provide for an independent lead director. The Board has four standing committees, each of which is comprised entirely of independent directors. Accordingly, the Compensation Committee maintains its independence to both objectively and subjectively evaluate Mr. Callon’s performance when reviewing or modifying his compensation. The Board believes that this commitment to committee independence counterbalances any perceived risk posed by having Mr. Callon serve as the Chairman, President and CEO.

The role of our Chairman is to oversee and ensure Board effectiveness, and in his capacity as Chairman, Mr. Callon has the following responsibilities:

·

schedules all meetings of the Board;

·

establishes Board meeting agendas and ensure critical issues are included;

·

chairs meetings of the Board and the Annual Meeting of Stockholders;

·

ensures that the flow of information provided to the Board is timely, complete, and accurate;

·

communicates with all directors on key issues and concerns outside of Board meetings;

·

represents us to and interacts with external stockholders; and

·

assists the Board and executive officers in assuring compliance with and implementation of our governance principles.

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Standing Committees of the Board of Directors

In order to facilitate the various functions of the Board, the Board currently has four standing committees, each of which is comprised solely of independent directors, including the:

·

Audit Committee;

·

Compensation Committee;

·

Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee; and

·

Strategic Planning and Reserves Committee.

Each committee, discussed below in greater detail, has a written charter that has been adopted by the Board, which sets forth guidance on the role of the chairman of such committee and the roles and responsibilities of the committee as a whole. 

Audit Committee Functions and Responsibilities

Purpose: The principal function of the Audit Committee is to assist the Board in overseeing the areas of financial reporting and accounting integrity.

Members: The Audit Committee is currently comprised of the following independent Directors, with two Directors deemed by the Board to be financial experts, as defined and required by the NYSE rules and the Exchange Act (“Financial Expert”):

·

John C. Wallace (Chairman and Financial Expert)

·

L. Richard Flury

·

Larry D. McVay

·

Anthony J. Nocchiero (Financial Expert)

The Board has determined that all members meet the independence requirements of the SEC and NYSE rules and the financial literacy requirements of the NYSE. Members of the Audit Committee may not simultaneously serve on the audit committee of more than three other public companies.

Meetings: The committee met nine times during 2015. All members of the Audit Committee attended each meeting.

Responsibilities: Pursuant to its charter, our Audit Committee functions in an oversight role and has the following purposes:

·

overseeing the quality, integrity and reliability of the financial statements and other financial information we provide to any governmental body or the public;

·

overseeing our compliance with legal and regulatory requirements;

·

selecting and hiring (subject to ratification by our stockholders) the independent public accounting firm;

·

overseeing the qualifications, independence and performance of the independent auditor;

·

overseeing the effectiveness and performance of our internal audit function;

·

overseeing our internal control function regarding finance, accounting, legal compliance and ethics;

·

establishing and overseeing procedures for the receipt, retention and treatment of complaints regarding accounting, internal accounting controls or audit matters, including the confidential, anonymous submission of concerns regarding such matters;

·

producing the Audit Committee Report for inclusion in our annual proxy statement; and

·

performing such other functions our Board may assign to the Audit Committee from time to time.

15


The Audit Committee oversees our accounting and auditing procedures and financial reporting practices, and is responsible for the engagement of and oversight of all audit work conducted by our independent registered public accounting firm. The Audit Committee meets periodically, generally quarterly, with our executive and financial management teams, internal auditor and our independent registered public accounting firm to review our financial information and systems of internal controls. The independent registered public accounting firm reports directly to the Audit Committee and, if requested, meetsdefinitive form with the Audit Committee in executive session without management representatives present. The Audit Committee hasSEC.

Section 6.2    Agreement To Retain Securities.
(a)    From the authority to investigate any matters brought to its attention and to retain outside legal, accounting or other consultants if deemed necessary.

The Audit Committee is required to pre-approve all audit, audit-related and non-audit services provided bydate hereof until the independent registered public accounting firm. These services may include audit services, audit-related services, tax services and other services. The Audit Committee approved all of the fees described in Proposal 4.  

Relationship with Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining internal controls over financial reporting and for assessing the effectiveness of those controls. The independent registered public accounting firm is responsible for performing independent audits of our consolidated financial statements and internal controls over financial reporting in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (“PCAOB”) (United States) and issuing reports thereon. The Audit Committee’s responsibility is to monitor and oversee these processes.

Ernst & Young LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, served as our independent registered public accounting firm during 2013, 2014 and 2015. Following the shift in our asset base and operational focus stemming from our 2013 exit from the Gulf of Mexico, the Audit Committee evaluated other independent accounting firms, including Ernst & Young LLP, with the ability and expertise to serve as our independent registered public accounting firm. Following this review, the Committee appointed Grant Thornton LLP to serve as our independent registered public accounting firm. 

Compensation Committee Functions and Responsibilities

Purpose: The purpose of the Compensation Committee is to establish our compensation policies and oversee the administration of our compensation program.

Members: Consistent with the listing requirements of the NYSE, the Compensation Committee is composed entirely of independent members of our Board, as each member meets the independence requirements set by the NYSE and applicable federal securities laws. The Compensation Committee is currently comprised of the following independent Directors:

·

L. Richard Flury (Chairman)

·

Larry. D. McVay

·

John C. Wallace

·

Anthony J. Nocchiero

·

James M. Trimble

Meetings: The Compensation Committee met five times during 2015. All members of the Compensation Committee attended each meeting.

Responsibilities: Pursuant to its charter, our Compensation Committee’s duties include the responsibility to:

·

evaluate the performance of and establish the compensation of the CEO;

·

review with the CEO the compensation for our other executive officers;

·

review incentive compensation arrangements to confirm that executive compensation doesClosing Date, Kimmeridge shall not, encourage unnecessary risk taking;

·

review matters relating to management succession;

·

administer our long-term incentive plans;

16


·

review and discuss with management, the CD&A;

·

review and recommend to the Board compensation for non-employee Directors;

·

retain and oversee compensation consultants, including the independence of the consultants;

·

review and approve performance criteria and results for bonus and performance-based equity awards for senior executive officers and approve awards to those officers; and

·

perform such other functions as our Board may assign to the Compensation Committee from time to time.

The Committee retained the services of Meridian Compensation Partners LLC, an independent compensation consulting firm, to assist in the annual review of market and industry data to assess our competitive position with respect to each element of total compensation and to ensure the attraction, retention and appropriate reward to our CEO and other executive officers.

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation: We have never employed, as an officer or otherwise, a member of the Compensation Committee. Additionally, none of our executive officers served as a member of the board or compensation committee (or other board committee performing similar functions or, in the absence of any such committee, the entire board) of any other entity that has one or more of its executive officers serving on the Company’s Compensation Committee.

Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee Functions and Responsibilities

Purpose: The purpose of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee is to identify and recommend qualified candidates to the Board for nomination as members of the Board, assess Director, Board and committee effectiveness, and develop and implement our Corporate Governance Guidelines and otherwise taking a leadership role in shaping the corporate governance of our Company.

Members: Each member of the Committee meets the independence requirements of the NYSE and applicable federal securities laws. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee is currently comprised of the following independent Directors:

·

Anthony J. Nocchiero (Chairman)

·

L. Richard Flury

·

Larry D. McVay

·

John C. Wallace

·

Matthew R. Bob

·

Michael L. Finch

Meetings: The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee met three times during 2015. All members of the Committee attended each meeting.

Responsibilities: Pursuant to its charter, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee’s duties include the responsibility to assist the Board in:

·

evaluating a set of specific criteria for Board membership and identifying individuals qualified to become Board members, recommending nominees for election at the next annual meeting of stockholders, reviewing the suitability for continued service as a Director of each Board member, or otherwise filling any vacancies;

·

assessing the size and composition of the Board and its committees and recommending to the Board the members and chair for each Board committee;

·

advising the Board and making recommendations regarding appropriate corporate governance practices and assist the Board in implementing those practices, including periodically reviewing the adequacy of our Corporate Governance Guidelines, our Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, and the various Board committee charters, and making recommendations for changes thereto to the Board;

·

overseeing the annual self-evaluation of the performance of the Board and its committees;

·

overseeing and approving plans for management continuity and succession;

17


·

recommending to the Board a successor to the CEO when a vacancy occurs; and

·

performing other such functions as the Board may assign to the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee from time to time.

Director Identification and Selection

The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee has established criteria it considers as guidelines in considering nominations to our Board and evaluates potential nominees based on the contribution such nominee’s background and skills could have upon the overall functioning and chemistry of the Board. While not an exhaustive list, key criteria include:

·

level and diversity of experience and knowledge (specifically within the industry and relevant industries in which we operate, as well as his or her overall experience and knowledge), and an understanding and general acceptance of our current corporate strategy;

·

personal characteristics, including such matters as integrity, education, absence of potential conflicts of interest with us or our operations, and the availability and willingness to devote sufficient time to the duties required of our Directors;

·

experience in corporate management, such as serving as an officer or former officer of a publicly held company, particularly within the industry and relevant industries in which we operate;

·

experience as a board member of another publicly held company, particularly within the industry and relevant industries in which we operate;

·

a candidate’s ability to work with our other Directors and executives in accomplishing our objectives and representing stockholders, and the contribution such nominee’s competence, background and skills could have upon the overall functioning, collaborative spirit and chemistry of the current Board; and

·

practical and mature business judgment.

The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and the Board may also consider other qualifications and attributes that they believe are appropriate in evaluating the ability of an individual to serve as a member of the Board. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee’s goal is to assemble a Board that brings to us a variety of perspectives and skills derived from high quality business and professional experience, while also having the requisite business and oil and gas industry experience to perform its oversight role satisfactorily for our stockholders. In making its determinations, the Committee evaluates each individual in the context of the Board as  a whole, with the objective of assembling a group that can best represent stockholder interests through the active, objective and constructive participation in meetings and the strategic decision-making processes. Although the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee has no formal diversity policy, the Board believes that diversity with respect to viewpoint, skills and experience should beconsidered as part of the overall assessment of the Board’s functioning and needs and the Director nomination process specifically includes disclosure of the diversity provided by each candidate. In addition to qualities of intellect, integrity and judgment, it takes into consideration diversity of personal and professional background, executive management experience, breadth of experience in the oil and natural gas E&P industry, finance, accounting, technology or law. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee makes its determination in the context of an assessment of the perceived needs of the Board at that point in time.

In accordance with our Certificate of Incorporation, any stockholder may nominate a person for election to the Board upon delivery of written notice to us of such nomination. Such notice must be sent as provided in our Certificate on or before the deadline set forth in our Certificate, and must otherwise comply with the procedures set forth in our Certificate of Incorporation. For nominations at the 2016 Annual Meeting, the Board will consider individuals identified by stockholders on the same basis as nominees identified from other sources. A submission recommending a nominee should include:

·

sufficient biographical information to allow the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee to evaluate the qualifications of a potential nominee in light of the Director nomination procedures and criteria and any other information that would be required to be disclosed in solicitations of proxies for the election of directors;

·

an indication as to whether the proposed nominee will meet the requirements for independence under NYSE and SEC guidelines;

18


·

information concerning any relationships between the potential nominee and the stockholder recommending the potential nominee; and

·

the proposed nominee’s written consent to serve if nominated and elected.

In making its nominations, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee identifies nominees by first evaluating the current members of the Board willing to continue their service and any potential need to expand the Board to include additional expertise. Current members with proven service and a record of quality contribution to the Board and the qualifications and skills that are consistent with the Committee’s criteria for Board service are re-nominated. As to vacancies, the Committee will generally poll the Board members and members of management for recommendations. The Committee may also review the composition and qualification of the boards of directors of our competitors, and may seek input from industry experts or analysts. The Committee may in the future choose to engage third-party search firms in situations where particular qualifications are required or where existing contacts are not sufficient to identify an appropriate candidate for membership in the Board.

Strategic Planning and Reserves Committee Functions and Responsibilities

Purpose:  The purpose of the Strategic Planning and Reserves Committee is to manage and oversee the Board’s participation in the development of the Company’s strategic plan, and assist management and the Board with its oversight of the integrity of the determination of our oil and natural gas reserve estimates.

Members: The Strategic Planning and Reserves Committee shall consist of no fewer than three members of the Board, and is currently comprised of the following independent Directors:

·

Larry D. McVay (Chairman)

·

L. Richard Flury

·

John C. Wallace

·

Anthony J. Nocchiero

·

Matthew Regis Bob

·

James M. Trimble

Meetings: The Strategic Planning and Reserves Committee met threetimes during 2015. All members of the Committee attended each meeting during 2015. This Committee meets periodically during the year, generally prior to the scheduled quarterly Board meetings, to review the progress of our capital expenditure budget and to evaluate recent trends in the independent oil and gas industry that may have an impact on our current business strategy for the remainder of the year.

Responsibilities: The Strategic Planning and Reserves Committee was created to oversee the responsibilities of the Board relating to strategic planning, including:

·

organizing and overseeing the Board’s participation in the development of a strategic plan, including, but not limited to, the risk assessment and management process;

·

monitoring the progress of the implementation of the strategic plan, and advising the Board if additional Board action appears to be needed;

·

assuring that management is addressing the personnel requirements for the successful implementation of the strategic plan;

·

assisting management and the Board with its oversight of the integrity of the determination of the Company’s oil and natural gas reserves and the work of the Company’s independent petroleum reservoir and reserve engineering firm; and

·

performing other such functions as the Board may assign to the Strategic Planning and Reserves Committee from time to time. 

Corporate Governance Matters

19


Corporate Governance Principles

The Board believes that sound corporate governance practices and policies provide an important framework to assist it in fulfilling its duty to stockholders. The framework for our corporate governance can be found in our governance documents, which include:

·

Corporate Governance Guidelines;

·

a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics; and

·

Charters for the Audit, Compensation, Nominating and Corporate Governance, and Strategic Planning and Reserves Committees.

Each of these documents is available on our website www.callon.com, under the “About Callon – Governance” menu. Stockholders may obtain a printed copy, free of charge, by sending a written request to our Corporate Secretary at our principal offices in Natchez, Mississippi. We also promptly post on our website any amendments to these documents and any waivers from the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics for our Directors and principal executive, financial and accounting officers.

Ethics

Our Code of Business Conduct and Ethics sets forth the policies and expectations applicable to every Director, officer and employee. The Code addresses a number of topics, including conflicts of interest, relationships with others, corporate payments, disclosure policy, compliance with laws, corporate opportunities and the protection and proper use of our assets. The Code meets the NYSE’s requirements for a code of business conduct and ethics, as well as the SEC’s definition of a code of ethics applicable to our senior officers. Neither the Board nor any Board committee has ever granted a waiver of the Code.

Board Risk Oversight

As an independent E&P company, we face a number of risks. Assessing and managing material risk is the responsibility of our management team, while our Board, as a whole and through its committees, generally oversees risk management and our long-term strategic direction, ensuring that risks undertaken by the Company are consistent with the Board’s risk tolerance. Our Board leadership structure and our practice of a high degree of interaction between our directors and members of senior management facilitate this oversight function. Our executive officers regularly attend the Board meetings and are available to address any questions or concerns raised by the Board on risk management-related and any other matters. Other members of our management team periodically attend the Board meetings or are otherwise available to confer with the Board to the extent their expertise is required to address risk management matters. The information flow and communication throughout the year between our Board and senior management regarding long-term strategic planning and short-term operational reporting includes matters of material risk inherent in our business of exploring for and producing oil and natural gas. The Board realizes, however, that it is not possible or prudent to eliminate all risk and that appropriate risk-taking is essential in order to achieve our near and longer-term objectives.

While the Board is ultimately responsible for risk oversight, the Board exercises additional risk oversight responsibilities through its committees, which are comprised solely of independent directors. Each such committee has primary risk oversight responsibility with respect to all matters within the scope of its duties as contemplated by its charter and as described below.

·

The Audit Committee, among other duties, is charged with overseeing material financial risk exposures in the areas of financial reporting, internal controls and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. This Committee also oversees responses to any alleged violations of our policies made by whistleblowers.

·

The Compensation Committee reviews and attempts to mitigate associated risks that may result from our compensation policies in order that they do not encourage unnecessary and excessive risk taking by management.

20


·

The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee focuses on issues relating to Board and Board committee composition and assists the Board in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities with respect to the management of risks associated with board organization, membership and structure, succession planning for our Directors and executive officers, and our corporate governance principals.

·

The Strategic Planning and Reserves Committee organizes and oversees the Board’s participation in the risk assessment and management process as it relates to the development and implementation of our strategic plan and the integrity of our reserve estimation reporting process and related disclosures.

Communication with Directors

Stockholders may communicate with the full Board, independent Directors as a group, or individual Directors, by sending a letter in care of the Corporate Secretary at our principal office, P. O. Box 1287, Natchez, MS 39121. Our Corporate Secretary has the authority to discard any solicitations, advertisements, or other inappropriate communications, but will forward any other mail to the named Director or group of Directors. Our Corporate Secretary will forward approved mail addressed to the full Board to Mr. Callon as Chairman of the Board who, if appropriate, will share the item with the full Board.

21


Executive Officers

The following table sets forth the names, ages and positions of our current executive officers:

a

Name

Age

Positions Held

Fred L. Callon

66

Director, Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer

Gary A. Newberry

61

Senior Vice President, Operations

Joseph C. Gatto, Jr.

45

Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

Jerry A. Weant

57

Vice President, Land

Mitzi P. Conn

46

Corporate Controller and Principal Accounting Officer

The following is a brief description of the background and principal occupation of each executive officer:

Fred L. Callon, Chairman of the Board of Directors, President and Chief Executive Officer. Please see above for the biography of Mr. Callon.

Gary A. Newberry joined us in April 2010 as Vice President – Production and Development. In September 2010, Mr. Newberry was promoted to Senior Vice President – Operations. After graduation, he joined Marathon Oil Company as a Production and Drilling Engineer working in Alaska, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Rockies. He held various supervisory and management roles of increasing responsibility over production and drilling operations in the Mid-Continent, Alaska and the Permian Basin. As a Business Unit Leader, Mr. Newberry was responsible for all upstream business activity in Oklahoma, Alaska, and the Rockies and served as Marathon’s Worldwide Operations Manager. Mr. Newberry retired from Marathon Oil Company after 33 years of service. Mr. Newberry graduated from Marietta College in 1977 with a B.S. degree in Petroleum Engineering.

Joseph C. Gatto, Jr. joined us in April 2012 as Senior Vice President, Corporate Finance, with responsibility for our capital markets and strategic planning functions, in addition to investor relations activities. Effective March 31, 2014, the Board appointed Mr. Gatto as Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer. Prior to joining Callon, Mr. Gatto was a Managing Director in the energy investment banking groups of Merrill Lynch & Co. and Barclays Capital from July 1997 until February 2009, with involvement in all phases of M&A and capital raising transactions for his clients. In February 2009, he founded MarchWire Capital, LLC, a financial advisory and strategic consulting firm, and subsequently served as Head of Structuring and Execution with Merrill Lynch Commodities, Inc. from January 2010 until November 2011. Mr. Gatto graduated from Cornell University with a BS degree in 1992 and The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania with an MBA in 1997.

Jerry A. Weant joined us in September 2013, as Vice President, Land. Mr. Weant joined Callon from Pioneer Natural Resources, an independent oil and gas company, where he was focused on Midland Basin operations, acting as a liaison with Permian Basin asset teams and coordinating internal efforts for the assessment of horizontal drilling programs. Mr. Weant spent the first 27 years of his career working as a landman in Midland, Texas, including working for Texaco, Inc. Pogo Producing, Inc., as well as other independents. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration/Petroleum Land Management from the University of Texas and is a Certified Professional Landman and a member of the American Association of Professional Landmen and the Permian Basin Landman's Association.

Mitzi P. Conn joined us in June 1993 and has been our Corporate Controller since May 2007. Effective March 31, 2014, the Board also appointed Mrs. Conn as our Principal Accounting Officer. Prior to May 2007, she served as Assistant Controller since May 2004 and has held various other positions in our finance and accounting departments. Prior thereto, she was a general accountant for Graham Resources, Inc. Mrs. Conn received her B.S. degree in accounting from Southeastern Louisiana University in 1990 and is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Mississippi Society of Certified Public Accountants.

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PROPOSAL 2

APPROVE, ON AN ADVISORY BASIS, THE COMPENSATION

OF THE COMPANY’S NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

We seek a non-binding advisory vote from our stockholders to approve the compensation of our NEOs, as described in this proxy statement. The Board recognizes that executive compensation is an important matter for our stockholders. The Compensation Committee is tasked with the implementation of our executive compensation philosophy and, as described in detail under the heading “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” below, the design of our executive compensation programs to align the interests of our executive officers with the interests of our stockholders. Under these programs, our executive officers are rewarded for the achievement of specific annual, long-term corporate and strategic goals tied to long-term value for stockholders.

As described in the CD&A, we believe our compensation program is effective, appropriate and strongly aligned with the long-term interests of our stockholders and that the total compensation package provided to the NEOs is reasonable and not excessive. As you consider this Proposal 2, we urge you to read the CD&A section of this proxy statement for additional details on executive compensation. Further, in determining whether to approve this proposal, we believe that stockholders should also consider the following:

·

Independent Compensation Committee. Executive compensation is reviewed and established by a Compensation Committee of the Board consisting solely of independent Directors. The Compensation Committee meets in executive session, without executive officers present, in determining annual compensation. The Compensation Committee receives data, analysis and input from a compensation consultant that is independent of management and free of conflicts of interest with us.

·

Performance-Based Incentive Compensation. Our executive compensation program is designed to attract, motivate and retain individuals with the skills required to formulate and drive our strategic direction and achieve the annual and long-term performance necessary to create stockholder value. The program also seeks to align executive compensation with stockholder value on an annual and long-term basis through a combination of base pay, annual incentives and long-term incentives.

·

Elimination of Tax Gross-ups. Started in 2011, executive officers are not eligible for a tax related gross-up on any element of current and future compensation.

·

“Double Trigger” Severance Agreements with Fixed Term. Callon’s change in control severance agreements with executive officers require an actual or constructive termination of employment before benefits are paid following any change in control.

·

Long-Term Incentive Plans. Our long-term incentive plans generally include three-year minimum vesting periods for time-based awards, and prohibit repricing or exchange of outstanding option awards.

·

Stock Ownership Guidelines. Each of the NEOs has been granted equity to provide a stake in our long-term success. The purpose of the ownership requirements is to further our goal of increasing stockholder value by further aligning the interests of our NEOs with the interests of our stockholders. We believe that this “tone at the top” guides our other officers and management personnel to obtain and maintain meaningful ownership stakes Callon.

·

Hedging Policy. Our directors and executive officers are prohibited from entering into transactions in puts, calls and other derivative securities with respect to our securities on an exchange or in any other organized market as well as short sales of our securities. These types of transactions can hedge against decreases in our stock price and encourage risky behavior. We believe these activities are often perceived as involving insider trading and may focus the holder’s attention on our short-term performance rather than our long-term objectives.

In light of the above, we believe that the compensation of our NEOs for 2015 was appropriate and reasonable, and that our compensation programs and practices are sound and in the best interests of us and our stockholders. We therefore respectfully request that Stockholders vote on the following resolution:

23


“RESOLVED, that the compensation paid to Callon’s Named Executive Officers, as disclosed in Callon’s 2016 proxy statement (including the Compensation Discussion and Analysis, the compensation tables and related footnotes and narrative disclosures), is hereby approved.”

The vote on this resolution is not intended to address any specific element of compensation; rather the vote relates to the compensation of the NEOs, as described in this proxy statement in accordance with the compensation disclosure rules of the SEC. Although this vote is advisory and is not binding on the Board, the Compensation Committee of the Board values the input and views of our stockholders and will take into account the outcome of the vote in connection with their evaluation of future executive compensation policies and decisions. For a review of the results of the previous years’ vote, which reflects overwhelming validation from our stockholders of our pay philosophy and approach, please see the Role of Stockholder Say-on-Pay Advisory Vote summary in the CD&A section.

Notwithstanding the advisory nature of this vote, the foregoing resolution will be deemed approved, on an advisory basis, with the affirmative vote of the majority of the votes cast on the proposal at the Annual Meeting. If you hold your shares through a broker and you do not instruct the broker how to vote, your broker will not have the authority to vote your shares. Abstentions will have the effect as a vote cast against the proposal. Broker non-votes will not be counted as shares present and entitled to vote, and so will have no effect upon the outcome of the vote. Lone Star Value Management has agreed to vote its shares as recommended by Institutional Shareholder Services with respect to the forgoing “Say-on-Pay” resolution.

THEBOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE “FOR” APPROVAL OF THIS RESOLUTION.

24


PROPOSAL 3

AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE FOUR OF THE COMPANY’S CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION

INCREASING THE NUMBER OF AUTHORIZED SHARES OF COMMON STOCK

OF THE COMPANY FROM 150 MILLION SHARES TO 300 MILLION SHARES

Proposed Amendment to Certificate of Incorporation

The Board has adopted a resolution approving and recommending to the stockholders for their approval a proposal to amend Article Four of the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of Common Stock from 150 million shares to 300 million shares (the “Article Four Amendment”).

The form of the Article Four Amendment is as follows:

The first sentence of Article Four is hereby amended and restated to be read in its entirety as follows:

“The Corporation shall have authority to issue two classes of stock, and the total number authorized shall be 300,000,000Beneficially Owned or Exchanged Notes held by Kimmeridge, (i) Transfer any such Exchanged Notes or Common Stock or (ii) deposit any such shares of Common Stock par value $.01 per share, and 2,500,000 shares of Preferred Stock, par value $.01 per share.”

Background and Reasons for Increasing the Authorized Shares of Common Stock

We have significantly grown our onshore asset base over the past five years and are seeking the approval of additional authorizedinto a voting trust or enter into a voting agreement or arrangement with respect to such shares of Common Stock or grant any proxy (except as otherwise provided herein) or power of attorney with respect thereto or (iii) agree (regardless of whether in orderwriting) to provide flexibilitytake any of the actions referred to meet the demands of future growth and other corporate obligations. We have a successful track record of funding acquisitions using the proceeds from equity offerings.

For example, during 2015, we raised approximately $183.7 million in gross proceeds from two common equity offerings to support recent acquisitions and our ongoing development efforts in the Midland Basin. In 2015, we acquired nearly 628 net acres located in our existing Carpe Diem and CaBo area (Cassleman-Bohannon fields) located primarily in Midland and Andrews counties for approximately $29.8 million and 305 net acres in our CaBo area for approximately $9.3 million.  These acquisitions contributed significantly to a 70% increase in our net daily production for calendar year 2015 as compared to calendar year 2014. In addition, our net proved reserves at December 31, 2015 increased 65% as compared to year-end 2014. Our market capitalization increased by 122% in 2015 as compared to 2014.

As part of a prudent capital management program in this depressed commodity price environment, we expect to continue to fund possible future strategic acquisitions with the proceeds from equity offerings. As the current capitalization table below indicates, there are only 13,230,793 shares currently available for issuance to accommodate possible equity demands in the future. By not having a sufficient amount of authorized but unissued Common Stock available, our ability to take advantage of potential growth opportunities that might arise is limited.

The Board concurs with this assessment and believes that the recommended increase in the number of authorizedforegoing clause (i) or (ii).

(b)    Notwithstanding Section 6.2(a), Kimmeridge may: (i) Transfer shares of Common Stock is warrantedto one or more Affiliates who agrees in writing to be bound by this Agreement and will give us the financial flexibility to satisfy the future equity capital requirementsdelivers a copy of our business and to capitalize on potential acquisition opportunities in a timely manner. If the Certificate of Incorporation is amended, the additional shares would be available for possible acquisitions, equity issuances in capital markets transactions, stock incentive plans, the reservation relatedsuch executed written agreement to the Series A Preferred Stock (as described below), and for any other proper general corporate purpose. There will be no increaseCompany prior to the number
A-10


consummation of authorized shares of preferred stock.

Except as described below, we have no present plans, agreements or understandings for the issuance of any of the additional sharessuch transfer, (ii) Transfer up to be authorized by the proposed amendment. We are actively pursuing several acquisition opportunities with a primary focus on the Permian Basin, including current negotiations and discussions relating to more than one acquisition, which include both producing and non-producing properties (the “Possible Acquisitions”). However, as of the date of the proxy we have not entered into definitive agreements in connection with the Possible Acquisitions. If definitive agreements are ultimately reached, we may, depending on the size of any such Possible Acquisitions, fund all or a portion of any such Possible Acquisitions with net proceeds from the issuance of our Common Stock. There can be no assurances

25


that an agreement for any of the Possible Acquisitions will be reached or that any Possible Acquisition or any other acquisition will be consummated.

Capitalization Tables

We have outstanding 1,458,948 shares of Series A Cumulative Preferred Stock (“Series A Preferred Stock”) with a total liquidation value of $73 million. The Series A Preferred Stock provides that upon a change of control, generally defined as the acquisition of 50% of the Company’s Common Stock by a person or group of persons and following the acquisition, neither the Company nor the surviving entity has a class of common securities listed on a national securities exchange) (“Change of Control”), we may make a cash offer to purchase the Series A Preferred Stock within 120 days following the Change of Control for the liquidation value plus accrued dividends. The Series A Preferred Stock further provides that if we do not elect (or are unable) to purchase the Series A Preferred Stock for cash, the holders of the Series A Preferred Stock may convert the liquidation value of their holdings into500,000 shares of Common Stock at the then current market price of Common Stock, but in no event more, in the aggregate, than 39,113,887 shares of Common Stock. Based on our Common Stock price as of March 18, 2016, the Series A Preferred Stock would theoretically be able to convert into 8,452,769 Common Shares if all of the events described above occurred.    

Currently, our authorized capital stock consists of 150,000,000or (iii) Transfer shares of Common Stock with the prior written consent the Company.

Section 6.3    Agreement to Vote.
(a)    From and 2,500,000 sharesafter the date hereof until the earlier of Preferred Stock. We have 96,122,341 shares(i) the Closing Date and (ii) the termination of Common Stock outstandingthis Agreement in accordance with Section 8.1, Kimmeridge irrevocably and an additional 40,646,866 shares reserved for issuance upon vesting or exercise of restricted stock, stock options and the limited conversion rightsunconditionally agrees that it shall, at any meeting of the Series A Preferred Stock. The following table depicts our authorized capital stock asstockholders of the Record Date prior toCompany (whether or not an adjourned or postponed meeting), however called, (x) appear at such meeting or otherwise cause the amendment of the Certificate of Incorporation and assuming the proposed amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation is adopted by the stockholders:

Current:

Total authorized

150,000,000 

Less:

Total shares outstanding

96,122,341 

Reserved for issuance upon exercise of outstanding stock options

15,000 

Reserved for issuance upon vesting of outstanding equity awards & 401(k) Plan

1,517,979 

Reserved for issuance for limited conversion feature of Series A Preferred Stock (“Share Cap”) (1)

39,113,887 

  Total outstanding and reserved

136,769,207 

Total available

13,230,793 

Post-Amendment:

Total authorized

300,000,000 

Less:

Total shares outstanding

96,122,341 

Reserved for issuance upon exercise of outstanding stock options

15,000 

Reserved for issuance upon vesting of outstanding equity awards & 401(k) Plan

1,517,979 

Reserved for issuance for limited conversion feature of Series A Preferred Stock (“Share Cap”) (1)

39,113,887 

  Total outstanding and reserved

136,769,207 

Total available

163,230,793 

(1)

Pending stockholder approval of the amendment to increase the authorized Common Stock, we reserve the right to allocate amounts, not to exceed 22,313,887 shares of Common Stock, reserved under the Share Cap for other corporate purposes in accordance with Delaware law.

If the stockholders approve the amendment to our Certificate of Incorporation to increase our authorized Common Stock, we will have 163,230,793 shares of authorized Common Stock available for future issuance. The additional shares of Common Stock authorized by the amendment that are not reserved for other purposes may be issued periodically on authorization by the Board, without further approval by the stockholders, unless such authorization is required by applicable law or the rules of the NYSE. Shares of Common Stock may be issued for such consideration as the Board may determine, and as may be permitted by applicable law.

26


The proposed amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation does not change the terms of the Common Stock. The additional shares of Common Stock to be authorized by adoptioncounted as present thereat for purpose of establishing a quorum and (y) with respect to any meeting at which a vote of the amendment would have rights identicalCompany’s stockholders is requested, vote, or cause to the currently outstanding Common Stock of the Company. Any future issuance of additionalbe voted at such meeting, all shares of Common Stock then Beneficially Owned by Kimmeridge (including by proxy or written consent, if applicable) as of the record date set therefore:

(i)    in favor of the Related Party Issuance Proposal;
(ii)    against any other proposal, transaction, agreement or other action inconsistent with or made in opposition to approval of the Related Party Issuance Proposal or matters contemplated by this Agreement.
(iii)    against any other proposal, transaction, agreement or other action that would or would reasonably be expected to result in a breach in any respect of any covenant, representation, warranty or other agreement contained in this Agreement; and
(iv)    in favor of any proposal to adjourn or postpone such stockholder meeting to a later date if there are not sufficient votes to approve the Related Party Issuance Proposal.
(b)    From and after the date hereof until the earlier of (i) the Closing Date and (ii) the termination of this Agreement in accordance with Section 8.1, Kimmeridge hereby irrevocably and unconditionally grants to, and appoints, the Company and any designee of the Company (determined in the Company’s sole discretion) as its proxy and attorney-in-fact (with full power of substitution), for and in the name, place and stead of Kimmeridge, to vote or cause to be voted (including by proxy or written consent, if applicable) its then owned shares of Common Stock at any such meeting of the Company’s stockholders contemplated by this Agreement in accordance with the Section 6.3(a). Kimmeridge further affirms that the irrevocable proxy set forth in this Section 6.3(b) is coupled with an interest and, except upon the occurrence of the Closing or termination in accordance with Section 8.1, is intended to be irrevocable.
(c)    From and after the date hereof until the earlier of (i) the Closing Date and (ii) the termination of this Agreement in accordance with Section 8.1, Kimmeridge agrees not to take, and shall cause its controlled Affiliates and representatives not to take, any other action that could reasonably be expected to impede, interfere with, delay, discourage, postpone or adversely affect the rightstransactions contemplated by this Agreement. Any attempt to vote, consent or dissent
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with respect to (or otherwise to utilize the voting power of), the shares of Common Stock Beneficially Owned by Kimmeridge in contravention of Section 6.2 and this Section 6.3 shall be null and void ab initio.
Section 6.4    Tax Matters. The Company and Kimmeridge agree that the transactions contemplated by this Agreement are properly considered a “recapitalization” under Section 368(a)(1)(E) of the holdersInternal Revenue Code of currently1986, as amended. Each of the Company and Kimmeridge shall report the transactions contemplated herein consistent with this Section 6.4 and shall not take any position contrary on any tax return, audit, or otherwise except as clearly required by law; provided, that nothing in this Section 6.4 shall be interpreted to in any way hinder or prevent either Party’s ability to settle any audit, litigation, or other dispute with any taxing authority.
ARTICLE VII
SURVIVAL; INDEMNIFICATION
Section 7.1    Survival. The representations and warranties of the Company and Kimmeridge contained in this Agreement or in any certificate furnished hereunder shall survive Closing for a period of twelve (12) months following the Closing Date regardless of any investigation made by or on behalf of the Company or Kimmeridge, except (a) the representations and warranties of the Company set forth in Section 3.1, and 3.2, shall survive indefinitely and (b) the representations and warranties of Kimmeridge set forth in Section 4.1, and 4.2 shall survive indefinitely. The covenants in this Agreement that are to be performed in whole or part from or after Closing shall survive the Closing until fully performed.
Section 7.2    Indemnification.
(a)    The Company agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Kimmeridge, its affiliates, directors and officers, from and against any and all losses, claims, damages and liabilities (including, without limitation, reasonable legal fees and other expenses incurred in connection with any suit, action or proceeding or any claim asserted, as such fees and expenses are incurred), joint or several, that arise out of, or are based upon, any breach of its representations or covenants contained in this Agreement.
(b)    Kimmeridge agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Company, each of its respective directors and officers from and against any and all losses, claims, damages and liabilities (including, without limitation, reasonable legal fees and other expenses incurred in connection with any suit, action or proceeding or any claim asserted, as such fees and expenses are incurred), joint or several, that arise out of, or are based upon, any breach of Kimmeridge’s representations or covenants contained in this Agreement.
(c)     If any suit, action, proceeding (including any governmental or regulatory investigation), claim or demand shall be brought or asserted against any person in respect of which indemnification may be sought pursuant to either paragraph (a) or (b) above, such person (the “Indemnified Person”) shall promptly notify the person against whom such indemnification may be sought (the “Indemnifying Person”) in writing; provided that the failure to notify the
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Indemnifying Person shall not relieve it from any liability that it may have under paragraph (a) or (b) above except to the extent that it has been materially prejudiced (through the forfeiture of substantive rights or defenses) by such failure; and provided, further, that the failure to notify the Indemnifying Person shall not relieve it from any liability that it may have to an Indemnified Person otherwise than under paragraph (a) or (b) above. If any such proceeding shall be brought or asserted against an Indemnified Person and it shall have notified the Indemnifying Person thereof, the Indemnifying Person shall retain counsel reasonably satisfactory to the Indemnified Person (who shall not, without the consent of the Indemnified Person, be counsel to the Indemnifying Person) to represent the Indemnified Person in such proceeding and shall pay the fees and expenses of such counsel related to such proceeding, as incurred. In any such proceeding, any Indemnified Person shall have the right to retain its own counsel, but the fees and expenses of such counsel shall be at the expense of such Indemnified Person unless (i) the Indemnifying Person and the Indemnified Person shall have mutually agreed to the contrary; (ii) the Indemnifying Person has failed within a reasonable time to retain counsel reasonably satisfactory to the Indemnified Person; (iii) the Indemnified Person shall have reasonably concluded that there may be legal defenses available to it that are different from or in addition to those available to the Indemnifying Person; or (iv) the named parties in any such proceeding (including any impleaded parties) include both the Indemnifying Person and the Indemnified Person and representation of both parties by the same counsel would be inappropriate due to actual or potential differing interests between them. It is understood and agreed that the Indemnifying Person shall not, in connection with any proceeding or related proceedings in the same jurisdiction, be liable for the fees and expenses of more than one separate firm (in addition to any local counsel) for all Indemnified Persons, and that all such fees and expenses shall be paid or reimbursed as they are incurred. Any such separate firm for Kimmeridge, its affiliates, directors and officers and any control persons of Kimmeridge shall be designated in writing by Kimmeridge and any such separate firm for the Company, its respective directors and officers and any control persons of the Company shall be designated in writing by the Company. The Indemnifying Person shall not be liable for any settlement of any proceeding effected without its written consent, but if settled with such consent or if there be a final judgment for the plaintiff, the Indemnifying Person agrees to indemnify each Indemnified Person from and against any loss or liability by reason of such settlement or judgment. Notwithstanding the foregoing sentence, if at any time an Indemnified Person shall have requested that an Indemnifying Person reimburse the Indemnified Person for fees and expenses of counsel as contemplated by this paragraph, the Indemnifying Person shall be liable for any settlement of any proceeding effected without its written consent if (i) such settlement is entered into more than 30 days after receipt by the Indemnifying Person of such request and (ii) the Indemnifying Person shall not have reimbursed the Indemnified Person in accordance with such request prior to the date of such settlement. No Indemnifying Person shall, without the written consent of the Indemnified Person, effect any settlement of any pending or threatened proceeding in respect of which any Indemnified Person is or could have been a party and indemnification could have been sought hereunder by such Indemnified Person, unless such settlement (x) includes an unconditional release of such Indemnified Person, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to such Indemnified Person, from all liability on claims that are the subject matter of such proceeding and (y) does not include any statement as to or any admission of fault, culpability or a failure to act by or on behalf of any Indemnified Person.
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ARTICLE VIII
MISCELLANEOUS
Section 8.1    Termination.
(a)    This Agreement may be terminated at any time prior to Closing as follows:
(i)    by the Company and Kimmeridge upon the mutual written agreement to terminate the Agreement;
(ii)    by the Company or Kimmeridge if the consummation of the Exchange has not occurred at or prior to 11:59 p.m. on December 31, 2021 (the “Outside Date”);
(iii)    by the Company or Kimmeridge in the event of an order, judgment or decree delaying the consummation of the Exchange beyond the Outside Date; or
(iv)    by Kimmeridge, if the Company has materially breached this Agreement, or by the Company, if Kimmeridge has materially breached this Agreement.
(b)    In the event of any termination as provided in this Section 8.1, this Agreement, solely as it relates to the agreements contained herein between Kimmeridge and the Company, shall immediately become void and of no further force or effect; provided, however, that the provisions of this Article VIII shall survive any such termination. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in no event shall any such termination pursuant to this Section 8.1 relieve Kimmeridge or the Company from: (i) liability for its breach or non-performance of its obligations under this Agreement before the date of such termination or (ii) any obligations under this Agreement which expressly survive any such termination hereunder.
Section 8.2    Severability. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision hereof will in no way affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision or the validity and enforceability of this Agreement in any other jurisdiction.
Section 8.3    Governing Law; Jurisdiction. This Agreement will in all respects be construed in accordance with and governed by the substantive laws of the State of New York, without reference to its choice of law rules. All actions or proceedings arising out of or relating to this Agreement will be heard and determined exclusively in any federal court of the United States of America sitting in the City of New York, Borough of Manhattan; provided, that if such federal court does not have jurisdiction over such action or proceeding, such action or proceeding will be heard and determined exclusively in any state court sitting in the City of New York, Borough of Manhattan. Consistent with the preceding sentence, the parties hereto hereby (i) submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of any federal or state court sitting in City of New York, Borough of Manhattan, for the purpose of any action or proceeding arising out of or relating to this Agreement brought by any party hereto and (ii) irrevocably waive, and agree not to assert by way of motion, defense, or otherwise, in any such action or proceeding, any claim that it is not subject personally to the jurisdiction of the above-named courts, that its property is exempt or
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immune from attachment or execution, that the action or proceeding is brought in an inconvenient forum, that the venue of the action or proceeding is improper, or that this Agreement or the transactions contemplated by this Agreement may not be enforced in or by any of the above-named courts.
Section 8.4    Waiver of Jury Trial. EACH PARTY HERETO HEREBY IRREVOCABLY WAIVES, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, ANY RIGHT IT MAY HAVE TO A TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY LEGAL PROCEEDING DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT OR THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED BY THIS AGREEMENT (WHETHER BASED ON CONTRACT, TORT OR ANY OTHER THEORY). EACH PARTY HERETO CERTIFIES THAT NO REPRESENTATIVE, AGENT OR ATTORNEY OF ANY OTHER PERSON HAS REPRESENTED, EXPRESSLY OR OTHERWISE, THAT SUCH OTHER PERSON WOULD NOT, IN THE EVENT OF LITIGATION, SEEK TO ENFORCE THE FOREGOING WAIVER AND ACKNOWLEDGES THAT IT HAS BEEN INDUCED TO ENTER INTO THIS AGREEMENT BY, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THE MUTUAL WAIVERS AND CERTIFICATIONS IN THIS SECTION.
Section 8.5    Headings. Section headings in this Agreement are included herein for convenience of reference only and will not constitute a part of, or affect the interpretation of, this Agreement.
Section 8.6    Certain Definitions. Capitalized terms in this Agreement shall have the meanings specified below, or as specified elsewhere in this Agreement, for all purposes hereof. The following terms, as used in this Agreement, shall have the meanings as set forth below:
(a)    “Affiliate” means, with respect to a specified Person, any other Person, directly or indirectly Controlling or Controlled by or under direct or indirect common Control with such specified Person; provided, that the Company, Affiliates of the Company, and any portfolio company of Kimmeridge, or any Affiliates of any portfolio company of Kimmeridge (which are not otherwise Affiliates of Kimmeridge and would only be deemed Affiliates of Kimmeridge pursuant to their relationship with one or more portfolio companies of Kimmeridge) shall not be deemed an Affiliate of Kimmeridge, as applicable.
(b)    “Beneficially Own” shall have the meaning assigned to such term in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act, and any Person’s beneficial ownership of securities shall be calculated in accordance with the provisions of such Rule.
(c)    “Business Day” means any day other than a day on which banks are permitted or required to be closed in New York City.
(d)    “Control,” “Controlling” or “Controlled” means, as to a specified Person, the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of such Person, directly or indirectly, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise.
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(e)    “Lien” means, except as otherwise specifically defined in this Agreement, any lien, pledge, mortgage, security interest, charge, option or other encumbrance of adverse claim of any kind.
(f)    “Officer” means the President and Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Financial Officer, or any Senior Vice President of the Company.
(g)    “Person” means any individual, corporation, partnership, joint venture, association, joint-stock company, trust, unincorporated organization, limited liability company or government or other entity.
(h)    “Transfer” means (a) any direct or indirect offer, sale, lease, assignment, encumbrance, loan, pledge, grant of a security interest, hypothecation, disposition or other similar transfer (by operation of law or otherwise), either voluntary or involuntary, or entry into any contract, option or other arrangement or understanding with respect to any offer, sale, lease, assignment, encumbrance, loan, pledge, hypothecation, disposition or other transfer (by operation of law or otherwise), of any shares of Common Stock owned by Kimmeridge (whether beneficially or of record), including in each case through the Transfer of any Person or any interest in any Person or (b) in respect of any capital stock or interest in any capital stock, to enter into any swap or any other agreement, transaction or series of transactions, other than as permitted by Section 6.2(b), that results in an amount of Shares subject to Section 6.2 and 6.3 that is less than the amount of shares of Common Stock subject to Section 6.2 and 6.3 as of the date hereof.
Section 8.7    Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, all of which taken together shall constitute one and the same instrument, and either of the parties hereto may execute this Agreement by signing any such counterpart. A facsimile transmission of this Agreement bearing a signature on behalf of a party hereto shall be legal and binding on such party.
Section 8.8    Assignment; Binding Effect. Kimmeridge shall not convey, assign or otherwise transfer any of its rights or obligations under this Agreement without the express written consent of the Company, and the Company shall not convey, assign or otherwise transfer any of its rights and obligations under this Agreement without the express written consent of each Kimmeridge. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors and permitted assigns.
Section 8.9    Waiver; Remedies. No delay on the part of Kimmeridge or the Company in exercising any right, power or privilege under this Agreement shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any waiver on the part of Kimmeridge or the Company of any right, power or privilege under this Agreement operate as a waiver of any other right, power or privilege of such party under this Agreement, nor shall any single or partial exercise of any right, power or privilege under this Agreement preclude any other or further exercise thereof or the exercise of any other right, power or privilege under this Agreement.
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Section 8.10    Specific Performance. The parties hereto agree that irreparable damage would occur if any provision of this Agreement were not performed in accordance with the terms hereof and that the parties shall be entitled to an injunction or injunctions to prevent breaches of this agreement or to enforce specifically the performance of the terms and provisions hereof in addition to any other remedy to which they are entitled at law or in equity.
Section 8.11    Entire Agreement. This Agreement represent the entire agreement between the parties hereto with respect to the transactions contemplated hereby and supersedes all prior agreements and understandings (whether written or oral) between the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof.
Section 8.12    Amendment. This Agreement may be modified or amended only by written agreement of each of the parties to this Agreement.
Section 8.13    Notice. Any notice or communications hereunder shall be in writing and will be deemed to have been given if delivered in person or by electronic transmission or by registered or certified first-class mail or courier service to the following addresses, or such other addresses as may be furnished hereafter by notice in writing:
if to the Company:
Callon Petroleum Company
One Briarlake Plaza
2000 W. Sam Houston Parkway S., Suite 2000
Houston, Texas
Attention:Michol Ecklund, Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary
Email:mecklund@callon.com
legal@callon.com

with a copy to, which shall not constitute notice to the Company:
Kirkland & Ellis LLP
609 Main St
Houston, TX 77002
Attention:Sean T. Wheeler
Michael W. Rigdon
Email:sean.wheeler@kirkland.com
michael.rigdon@kirkland.com



A-17


if to Kimmeridge:
c/o Kimmeridge Energy Management Company
412 West 15th Street, 11th Floor
New York, New York 10011
Attention:Tamar Goldstein
Email:tamar.goldstein@kimmeridge.com

With a copy to (which shall not constitute notice):

c/o Sidley Austin LLP
1000 Louisiana Street, Suite 5900
Houston, TX 77002
Attention:Irving L. Rotter
George J. Vlahakos
Email:irotter@sidley.com
gvlahakos@sidley.com

Section 8.14    Expenses. If, prior to the consummation of the Exchange, this Agreement is terminated in accordance with Section 8.1, all costs and expenses incurred by Kimmeridge in connection with, or in anticipation of, this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby shall be paid by the Company within fifteen (15) Business Days after the Company’s receipt of the applicable invoice. For the avoidance of doubt, in the event that the Exchange is consummated, all costs and expenses incurred by Kimmeridge in connection with, or in anticipation of, this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby shall be borne by Kimmeridge.
[Signature pages follow]


A-18


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be executed by their respective duly authorized officers, as of the date first above written.

COMPANY:
CALLON PETROLEUM COMPANY
By:/s/ Joseph C. Gatto, Jr.
Name:Joseph C. Gatto, Jr.
Title:President & CEO
Signature Page to Exchange Agreement


KIMMERIDGE:
CHAMBERS INVESTMENTS, LLC
By:/s/ Noam Lockshin
Noam Lockshin
Manager
Signature Page to Exchange Agreement


Schedule I

Holder Name
Aggregate Principal Amount of 2025 Notes for DWAC Withdrawal
CUSIP/ISIN Numbers:
13123X BB7 / U1303X AF3
Aggregate Number of Shares of New Common Stock to be IssuedHolder EINBusiness Address
Chambers Investments, LLC$197,000,0005,512,62385-3027096
412 West 15th Street, 11th Floor
New York, New York 10011
Schedule I to Exchange Agreement


Exhibit A
Form of Registration Rights Agreement
[See attached]
Exhibit A to Exchange Agreement



Exhibit Version
REGISTRATION RIGHTS AGREEMENT

BY AND BETWEEN
CALLON PETROLEUM COMPANY
AND
CHAMBERS INVESTMENTS, LLC
This REGISTRATION RIGHTS AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) is made and entered into as of [●], by and among Callon Petroleum Company, a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), and Chambers Investments, LLC, and the entities affiliated therewith (“Kimmeridge”).
WHEREAS, this Agreement is entered into in connection with the Company’s issuance of shares of common stock, par value $0.01, of the Company (the “Common Stock”) in exchange for the Company’s 9.0% Second Lien Senior Secured Notes due 2025 pursuant to that certain Exchange Agreement (the “Exchange Agreement”), dated as of August 3, 2021, by and between the Company and Kimmeridge; and
WHEREAS, the Company has agreed to provide the registration and other rights set forth in this Agreement for the benefit of Kimmeridge pursuant to the Exchange Agreement; and
WHEREAS, it is a condition to the obligations of Kimmeridge under the Exchange Agreement that this Agreement be executed and delivered.
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements set forth herein and for good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged by each party hereto, the parties hereby agree as follows:
ARTICLE I
DEFINITIONS
Section 1.01    Definitions. The terms set forth below are used herein as so defined:
Affiliate” shall have the meaning ascribed to it, on the date hereof, in Rule 405 under the Securities Act.
Agreement” has the meaning specified therefor in the introductory paragraph of this Agreement.
Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company.
EX A-1


Beneficially Own” shall have the meaning assigned to such term in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act, and any Person’s beneficial ownership of securities shall be calculated in accordance with the provisions of such Rule.
Business Day” means any day other than a Saturday, Sunday, any federal legal holiday or day on which banking institutions in the State of New York or State of Texas are authorized or required by law or other governmental action to close.
Closing Date” means the date of consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Exchange Agreement.
Common Stock” means the shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Company.
Common Stock Price” means the volume weighted average closing price of the Common Stock (as reported by the NYSE or, if the NYSE is not the Company’s primary securities exchange or market, such primary securities exchange or market) for the twenty (20) trading days immediately preceding the date on which the determination is made (or, if such price is not available, as determined in good faith by the Board).
Company” has the meaning specified therefor in the introductory paragraph of this Agreement.
Control” means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct, or cause the direction of, the management and policies of a Person whether though the ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise. The terms “Controlled” and “Controlling” shall have correlative meanings.
Effective Date” means, with respect to a particular Shelf Registration Statement, the date of effectiveness of such Shelf Registration Statement.
Effectiveness Period” means the period beginning on the Effective Date for the Registration Statement and ending at the time all Registrable Securities covered by such Registration Statement have ceased to be Registrable Securities.
Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and the rules and regulations of the SEC promulgated thereunder.
Exchange Agreement” has the meaning specified therefor in the recitals of this Agreement.
Existing Registration Rights Agreement” means the registration rights agreement, dated as of September 30, 2020, by and between the Company and Kimmeridge.
Freely Tradable” means, with respect to any security, that such security, when held by the holder thereof, is no longer subject to the restrictions on trading under the provisions of Rule 144 under the Securities Act (or any successor rule or regulation to Rule 144 then in force),
EX A-2


including volume and manner of sale restrictions, and the current public information requirement of Rule 144(e) (or any successor rule or regulation to Rule 144 then in force) no longer applies; provided that if a Holder Beneficially Owns 10% or more of the Company’s then outstanding Common Stock, then such Holder’s Common Stock shall be deemed not to be Freely Tradable for so long as such Holder Beneficially Owns 10% or more of the Company’s outstanding Common Stock.
Governmental Authority” means any federal, state, local or foreign government, or other governmental, regulatory or administrative authority, agency or commission or any court, tribunal, or judicial or arbitral body.
Holder” means the holder of any Registrable Securities.
Included Registrable Securities” has the meaning specified therefor in Section 2.02(a) of this Agreement.
Kimmeridge” has the meaning specified therefor in the introductory paragraph of this Agreement.
Law” means any statute, law, ordinance, regulation, rule, order, code, governmental restriction, decree, injunction or other requirement of law, or any judicial or administrative interpretation thereof, of any Governmental Authority.
Losses” has the meaning specified therefor in Section 2.08(a) of this Agreement.
Managing Underwriter” means, with respect to any Underwritten Offering, the book-running lead manager of such Underwritten Offering.
Notes” has the meaning specified therefor in the introductory paragraph of this Agreement.
NYSE” means The New York Stock Exchange, Inc.
Opt-Out Notice” has the meaning specified therefor in Section 2.02(a) of this Agreement.
Person” means an individual or a corporation, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, unincorporated organization, association, government agency or political subdivision thereof or other entity.
Purchase Agreement” means that certain purchase agreement, dated as of September 30, 2020, by and among the Company, Kimmeridge and the other parties thereto, which provided for the issuance and sale of the Company’s 9.00% Second Lien Senior Secured Notes due 2025 and the Warrants to Kimmeridge.
Registrable Securities” means the Common Stock issued to the Holder pursuant to the Exchange Agreement and any securities issued or then issuable upon the exercise of the
EX A-3


Warrants or any stock split, dividend or other distribution, recapitalization or similar event with respect thereto.
Registrable Securities Amount” means the calculation based on the product of the Common Stock Price times the number of applicable Registrable Securities.
Registration Expenses” has the meaning specified therefor in Section 2.07(b) of this Agreement.
Registration Statement” has the meaning specified therefor in Section 2.01 of this Agreement.
Required Holders” means initially, Kimmeridge, and subsequent to a transfer by Kimmeridge of the Registrable Securities, the Holder or collective Holders of greater than 50% of the Registrable Securities.
Rule 405” means Rule 405 under the Securities Act (or any successor or similar provision adopted by the SEC then in effect).
SEC” means the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
Securities Act” means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the rules and regulations of the SEC promulgated thereunder.
Selling Expenses” has the meaning specified therefor in Section 2.07(b) of this Agreement.
Selling Holder” means a Holder who is selling Registrable Securities under a Registration Statement pursuant to the terms of this Agreement.
Selling Holder Indemnified Persons” has the meaning specified therefor in Section 2.08(a) of this Agreement.
Shelf Registration Statement” means a registration statement under the Securities Act to permit the public resale of the Registrable Securities from time to time as permitted by Rule 415 under the Securities Act (or any successor or similar provision adopted by the SEC then in effect).
Underwritten Offering” means an offering (including an offering pursuant to a Shelf Registration Statement) in which Registrable Securities are sold to one or more underwriters on a firm commitment basis for reoffering to the public or an offering that is a “bought deal” with one or more investment banks.
Warrants” means the Series B warrants issued by the Company pursuant to the Purchase Agreement.
WKSI” means a “well known seasoned issuer” as defined under Rule 405.
EX A-4


Section 1.02    Registrable Securities. Any Registrable Security shall cease to be a Registrable Security at the earliest of the following: (a) when a registration statement covering such Registrable Security becomes or has been declared effective by the SEC and such Registrable Security has been sold or disposed of pursuant to such effective registration statement; (b) when such Registrable Security has been sold or disposed of (excluding transfers or assignments by a Holder to an Affiliate) pursuant to Rule 144 under the Securities Act (or any successor or similar provision adopted by the SEC then in effect) under circumstances in which all of the applicable conditions of Rule 144 (as then in effect) are met; (c) when such Registrable Security is held by the Company or one of its Affiliates; or (d) when such Registrable Security has been sold or disposed of in a private transaction in which the transferor’s rights under this Agreement are not assigned to the transferee of such securities pursuant to Section 2.10 hereof. In addition, any Registrable Security will cease to be a Registrable Security upon the date that such security is Freely Tradeable; provided that, for the avoidance of doubt, Common Stock that is not a Registrable Security because it is Freely Tradable will become a Registrable Security to the extent it is subsequently not Freely Tradable.
ARTICLE II
REGISTRATION RIGHTS
Section 2.01    Shelf Registration.
(a)    Shelf Registration. Within three Business Days of the Closing Date, the Company shall prepare and file a Shelf Registration Statement with the SEC to permit the public resale of all Registrable Securities on the terms and conditions specified in this Section 2.01 (a “Registration Statement”). The Registration Statement filed with the SEC pursuant to this Section 2.01 shall be on Form S-3 and, if the Company is a WKSI as of the filing date thereof, shall be an Automatic Shelf Registration Statement or, if Form S-3 is not then available to the Company, on Form S-1 or such other form of registration statement as is then available to effect a registration for resale of the Registrable Securities, covering the Registrable Securities, and shall contain a prospectus in such form as to permit any Selling Holder covered by such Registration Statement to sell such Registrable Securities pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act (or any successor or similar provision adopted by the SEC then in effect) at any time beginning on the Effective Date for such Registration Statement. The Company shall use its reasonable best efforts to cause a Registration Statement filed pursuant to this Section 2.01 to be declared effective as soon as reasonably practicable thereafter. During the Effectiveness Period, the Company shall use its reasonable best efforts to cause a Registration Statement filed pursuant to this Section 2.01 to remain effective, and to be supplemented and amended to the extent necessary to ensure that such Registration Statement is available or, if not available, that another registration statement is available for the resale of the Registrable Securities until all Registrable Securities have ceased to be Registrable Securities; provided, that the Company shall not be required to supplement or amend such Registration Statement more than once in any calendar quarterly period to name additional parties as the result of any transfer of registration rights. The Company shall prepare and file a supplemental listing application with the NYSE (or such other national securities exchange on which the Registrable Securities are then listed and traded) to list the Registrable Securities covered by a Registration Statement and shall use its
EX A-5


reasonable best efforts to have such Registrable Securities approved for listing on the NYSE (or such other national securities exchange on which the Registrable Securities are then listed and traded) by the Effective Date of such Registration Statement, subject only to official notice of issuance. As soon as practicable following the Effective Date of a Registration Statement, but in any event within three Business Days of such date, the Company shall notify the Required Holders of the effectiveness of such Registration Statement. When effective, a Registration Statement (including the documents incorporated therein by reference) will comply as to form in all material respects with all applicable requirements of the Securities Act and the Exchange Act and will not contain an untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading (in the case of any prospectus contained in such Registration Statement, in the light of the circumstances under which a statement is made).
(b)    Delay Rights. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, the Company may, upon written notice to (i) the Holders, delay the filing of a Registration Statement required under Section 2.01, or (ii) any Selling Holder whose Registrable Securities are included in a Registration Statement or other registration statement contemplated by this Agreement, suspend such Selling Holder’s use of any prospectus that is a part of such Registration Statement or other registration statement (in which event the Selling Holder shall discontinue sales of the Registrable Securities pursuant to such Registration Statement or other registration statement contemplated by this Agreement but may settle any previously made sales of Registrable Securities) if the Company (x) is pursuing an acquisition, merger, tender offer, reorganization, disposition or other similar transaction and the Board determines reasonably and in good faith that (A) the Company’s ability to pursue or consummate such a transaction would be materially adversely affected by any required disclosure of such transaction in such Registration Statement or other registration statement or (B) such transaction renders the Company unable to comply with SEC requirements, in each case under circumstances that would make it impractical or inadvisable to cause the Registration Statement (or such filings) to become effective or to promptly amend or supplement the Registration Statement or other registration statement contemplated by this Agreement on a post effective basis, as applicable, or (y) has experienced some other material non-public event the disclosure of which at such time, in the reasonable and good faith judgment of the Board, would materially adversely affect the Company; providedhowever, that in no event shall the Selling Holders be suspended from selling Registrable Securities pursuant to such Registration Statement for a period that exceeds an aggregate of 60 days in any 180-day period or 105 days in any 365-day period. Upon disclosure of such information or the termination of the condition described above, the Company shall provide prompt notice, but in any event within one Business Day of such disclosure or termination, to the Selling Holders whose Registrable Securities are included in such Registration Statement and shall promptly terminate any suspension of sales it has put into effect and shall take such other reasonable actions to permit registered sales of Registrable Securities as contemplated in this Agreement.
EX A-6


Section 2.02    Piggyback Rights.
(a)    Participation. So long as a Holder has Registrable Securities, if the Company proposes to file (i) a shelf registration statement other than a Registration Statement contemplated by Section 2.01 and other than a registration statement on Forms S-4 or S-8 and any successor forms, (ii) a prospectus supplement to an effective shelf registration statement relating to the sale of equity securities of the Company, exceptother than a Registration Statement contemplated by Section 2.01 and Holders may be included without the filing of a post-effective amendment thereto, or (iii) a registration statement, other than a shelf registration statement, and other than a registration statement on Forms S-4 or S-8 and any successor forms, in each case, for effects incidentalthe sale of Common Stock in an Underwritten Offering for its own account or that of another Person, or both, then the Company shall give prompt written notice of its intention to increasingeffect such registration at least five Business Days before the proposed date of filing of the applicable Registration Statement or prospectus supplement, or at least two Business Days in connection with any overnight or bought Underwritten Offering, to the Holders and such notice shall (A) describe the intended method(s) of distribution, and the name of the proposed Managing Underwriter or Underwriters, if any, in such offering and (B) offer the Holders the opportunity to include in such registration statement, prospectus supplement or Underwritten Offering, as the case may be, such number of Registrable Securities (the “Included Registrable Securities”) as the Holders may request in writing (such request may include the Registrable Securities to be included on behalf of any other Holder, as specified by the Holders); provided, however, that if the Company has been advised by the Managing Underwriter of any such Underwritten Offering that the inclusion of all Registrable Securities that the Selling Holders intend to include in such offering exceeds the number that can be sold in such offering without being likely to have an adverse effect on the price, timing or distribution of the Common Stock in the Underwritten Offering, then (x) if no Registrable Securities can be included in the Underwritten Offering in the opinion of the Managing Underwriter without having such adverse effect, the Company shall not be required to offer such opportunity to the Holders or (y) if any Registrable Securities can be included in the Underwritten Offering in the opinion of the Managing Underwriter without having such adverse effect, then the amount of Registrable Securities to be offered for the accounts of Holders shall be determined based on the provisions of Section 2.02(b) or in such other manner as such Selling Holders may agree. Any notice required to be provided in this Section 2.02(a) to the Holders shall be provided on a Business Day and receipt of such notice shall be confirmed by the Holders. Holders shall then have two Business Days (or one Business Day in connection with any overnight or bought Underwritten Offering) after notice has been delivered to request in writing the inclusion of Registrable Securities in the Underwritten Offering. If no written request for inclusion from Holders is received within the specified time, each such Holder shall have no further right to participate in such Underwritten Offering. If, at any time after giving written notice of its intention to undertake an Underwritten Offering and prior to the closing of such Underwritten Offering, the Company shall determine for any reason not to undertake or to delay such Underwritten Offering, the Company may, at its election, give written notice of such determination to the Selling Holders and, (1) in the case of a determination not to undertake such Underwritten Offering, shall be relieved of its obligation to sell any Included Registrable Securities in connection with such terminated Underwritten Offering, and (2) in the case of a determination to delay such Underwritten Offering, shall be permitted to
EX A-7


delay offering any Included Registrable Securities as part of such Underwritten Offering for the same period as the delay in the Underwritten Offering. Any Selling Holder shall have the right to withdraw such Selling Holder’s request for inclusion of such Selling Holder’s Registrable Securities in such Underwritten Offering by giving written notice to the Company of such withdrawal at least one Business Day before the time of pricing of such Underwritten Offering. Holders may deliver written notice (an “Opt-Out Notice”) to the Company requesting that such Holder not receive notice from the Company of any proposed Underwritten Offering; provided, however, that such Holder may later revoke any such Opt-Out Notice in writing prior to five Business Day before the time of pricing of such underwritten offering. Following receipt of an Opt-Out Notice from a Holder (unless subsequently revoked), the Company shall not be required to deliver any notice to such Holder pursuant to this Section 2.02(a) and such Holder (unless such Holder’s Opt-Out Notice is subsequently revoked) shall no longer be entitled to participate in Underwritten Offerings by the Company pursuant to this Section 2.02(a).
(b)    Priority. If the Managing Underwriter of any proposed Underwritten Offering of Common Stock involving Included Registrable Securities pursuant to this Section 2.02 advises the Company that the total amount of Common Stock that the Selling Holders and any other Persons intend to include in such offering exceeds the number of shares of our Common Stock outstanding,that can be sold in such as a dilutiveoffering without being likely to have an adverse effect on the Company’s earnings per share.price, timing or distribution of the Common Stock offered or the market for the Common Stock, then the Common Stock to be included in such Underwritten Offering shall include the number of Registrable Securities that such Managing Underwriter advises the Company can be sold without having such adverse effect, with such number to be allocated (i) first, to the Company or other party or parties requesting or initiating such registration, (ii) second, by the Selling Holders who have requested participation in such Underwritten Offering, allocated among such Selling Holders pro rata on the basis of the number of Registrable Securities held by each Selling Holder or in such manner as they may agree and (iii) third, by the other holders of Common Stock (other than Holders) with registration rights entitling them to participate in such Underwritten Offering, allocated among such other holders pro rata on the basis of the number of shares of Common Stock held by each applicable other holder or in such manner as they may agree.
Section 2.03    Underwritten Offerings.
(a)    Demand Offering. In the event that any Holder elects to dispose of Registrable Securities under a Registration Statement pursuant to an Underwritten Offering and reasonably expects gross proceeds of at least $25 million from such Underwritten Offering (together with any Registrable Securities to be disposed of by a Selling Holder who has elected to participate in such Underwritten Offering pursuant to Section 2.02), the Company shall, at the written request of such Selling Holder(s), enter into an underwriting agreement in a form as is customary in Underwritten Offerings of securities by the Company with the Managing Underwriter or Underwriters selected by the Company (subject to the written consent of the Initiating Holder of such Underwritten Offering, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld), which shall include, among other provisions, indemnities to the effect and to the extent provided in Section 2.08, and shall take all such other reasonable actions as are requested by the Managing Underwriter or Underwriters in order to expedite or facilitate the disposition of such Registrable
EX A-8


Securities; providedhowever, that the Company shall have no obligation to facilitate or participate in, including entering into any underwriting agreement for more than two Underwritten Offerings at the request of the Holders hereunder; providedfurther, that if the Company is conducting or actively pursuing a securities offering of Common Stock with anticipated gross offering proceeds of at least $25 million (other than in connection with any at-the-market offering or similar continuous offering program), then the Company may suspend such Selling Holders’ rights to require the Company to conduct an Underwritten Offering pursuant to this Section 2.03providedhowever, that the Company may only suspend such Selling Holders’ rights to require the Company to conduct an Underwritten Offering pursuant to this Section 2.03 once in any six-month period and in no event for a period that exceeds an aggregate of 75 days in any 180-day period or 105 days in any 365-day period.
(b)    General Procedures. In connection with any Underwritten Offering contemplated by Section 2.03(a), the underwriting agreement into which each Selling Holder and the Company shall enter shall contain such representations, covenants, indemnities (subject to Section 2.08) and other rights and obligations as are customary in Underwritten Offerings of securities by the Company. No Selling Holder shall be required to make any representations or warranties to, or agreements with, the Company or the Underwriters other than representations, warranties or agreements regarding (i) such Holder’s ownership of its Registrable Securities to be sold or transferred, (ii) such Selling Holder’s authority to enter into such underwriting agreement and to sell or transfer such securities, (iii) its intended method of distribution and (iv) any other such matters or representations pertaining to compliance with securities laws as may be reasonably requested. If our stockholders do not approveany Selling Holder disapproves of the proposal, weterms of an Underwritten Offering contemplated by this Section 2.03, such Selling Holder may elect to withdraw therefrom by notice to the Company and the Managing Underwriter; providedhowever, that such withdrawal must be made at least one Business Day prior to the time of pricing of such Underwritten Offering to be effective; providedfurther, that in the event the Managing Underwriter or Underwriters of any proposed Underwritten Offering advise the Company that the total amount of Registrable Securities that Holders intend to include in such offering exceeds the number that can be sold in such offering without being likely to have an adverse effect on the price, timing or distribution of the Registrable Securities offered or the market for the Common Stock, and the amount of Registrable Securities requested to be included in such Underwritten Offering by the Holder that initiated such Underwritten Offering pursuant to Section 2.03(a) (the “Initiating Holder”) is reduced by 50% or more, the Initiating Holder will have only 13,230,793the right to withdraw from such Underwritten Offering by delivering notice to the Company at least one Business Day prior to the time of pricing of such Underwritten Offering. If, pursuant to the preceding sentence, the entire Demand Registration Request is revoked, then, at the option of the Holder or Holders who revoke such request, either (i) such Holder or Holders shall reimburse the Company for all of its reasonable and documented incremental out-of-pocket expenses incurred in the preparation, filing and processing of the Registration Statement or prospectus supplement with respect to such requested Underwritten Offering, which incremental out-of-pocket expenses, for the avoidance of doubt, shall not include overhead expenses and which requested Underwritten Offering, whether or not completed, will not decrease the number of Underwritten Offerings the Holders shall have the right and option to request under this Section 2.03.
EX A-9


(c)    Priority. If the Managing Underwriter of any proposed Underwritten Offering of Registrable Securities pursuant to this Section 2.03 advises the Company that the total amount of Common Stock that the Selling Holders and any other Persons intend to include in such offering exceeds the number of shares of authorized Common Stock that can be sold in such offering without being likely to have an adverse effect on the price, timing or distribution of the Common Stock offered or the market for the Common Stock, then the Common Stock to be included in such Underwritten Offering shall include the number of Registrable Securities that such Managing Underwriter advises the Company can be sold without having such adverse effect, with such number to be allocated (i) first, to the Selling Holder who requested such Underwritten Offering, (ii) second, to any other Holders of Registrable Securities who have elected to participate in such Underwritten Offering, allocated among such other Selling Holders pro rata on the basis of the number of Registrable Securities held by each such Selling Holder or in such other manner as such Selling Holders may agree, and (iii) third, to the Company.
Section 2.04    Sale Procedures. In connection with its obligations under this Article II, the Company shall, as expeditiously as possible:
(a)    use its reasonable best efforts to prepare and file with the SEC such amendments and supplements to a Registration Statement and the prospectus used in connection therewith as may be necessary to keep such Registration Statement effective for the Effectiveness Period and as may be necessary to comply with the provisions of the Securities Act with respect to the disposition of all Registrable Securities covered by such Registration Statement;
(b)    if a prospectus supplement will be used in connection with the marketing of an Underwritten Offering from a Registration Statement and the Managing Underwriter at any time shall notify the Company in writing that, in the sole judgment of such Managing Underwriter, inclusion of detailed information to be used in such prospectus supplement is of material importance to the success of the Underwritten Offering of such Registrable Securities, the Company shall use its reasonable best efforts to include such information in such prospectus supplement;
(c)    furnish to each Selling Holder (i) as far in advance as reasonably practicable before filing a Registration Statement or any other registration statement contemplated by this Agreement or any supplement or amendment thereto, upon request, copies of reasonably complete drafts of all such documents proposed to be filed (including exhibits and each document incorporated by reference therein to the extent then required by the rules and regulations of the SEC other than annual or quarterly reports on Form 10-K or 10-Q, respectively, current reports on Form 8-K or proxy statements; provided, however, that such reports or proxy statements shall be provided at least two Business Days prior to filing in connection with any Underwritten Offering), and provide each such Selling Holder the opportunity to object to any information pertaining to such Selling Holder and its plan of distribution that is contained therein and make the corrections reasonably requested by such Selling Holder with respect to such information prior to filing a Registration Statement or such other registration statement or supplement or amendment thereto, and (ii) such number of copies of such Registration Statement or such other registration statement and the prospectus included
EX A-10


therein and any supplements and amendments thereto as such Selling Holder may reasonably request in order to facilitate the public sale or other disposition of the Registrable Securities covered by such Registration Statement or other registration statement;
(d)    if applicable, use its reasonable best efforts to register or qualify the Registrable Securities covered by a Registration Statement or any other registration statement contemplated by this Agreement under the securities or blue sky laws of such jurisdictions as the Selling Holders or, in the case of an Underwritten Offering, the Managing Underwriter, shall reasonably request; provided, however, that the Company shall not be required to qualify generally to transact business in any jurisdiction where it is not then required to so qualify or to take any action that would subject it to general corporate purposesservice of process in any such jurisdiction where it is not then so subject;
(e)    promptly notify each Selling Holder, at any time when a prospectus relating thereto is required to be delivered by any of them under the Securities Act, of (i) the filing of a Registration Statement or any other registration statement contemplated by this Agreement or any prospectus or prospectus supplement to be used in connection therewith, or any amendment or supplement thereto, and, with respect to such Registration Statement or any other registration statement or any post-effective amendment thereto, when the same has become effective; and (ii) the receipt of any written comments from the SEC with respect to any filing referred to in clause (i) and any written request by the SEC for amendments or supplements to such Registration Statement or any other registration statement or any prospectus or prospectus supplement thereto;
(f)    promptly notify each Selling Holder, at any time when a prospectus relating thereto is required to be delivered under the Securities Act, of (i) the happening of any event as a result may not be able to access the capital markets, complete acquisition transactions or partnerships, attract, retain and motivate employees, or pursue other business opportunities integral to its growth and success. However, non-approval will not have any impact on the existing terms and conditions of the Series A Preferred Stock, including the current Share Cap.

The existence of certain provisions contained in the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation and By-laws may be to render more difficult the accomplishment of any attempted merger, takeover or other change in control affecting the Company and/or the removal of the Company’s incumbent Board and management. However, this proposal is not in response to any effort of which the prospectus or prospectus supplement contained in a Registration Statement or any other registration statement contemplated by this Agreement, as then in effect, includes an untrue statement of a material fact or omits to state any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading (in the case of any prospectus contained therein, in the light of the circumstances under which a statement is made); (ii) the issuance or express threat of issuance by the SEC of any stop order suspending the effectiveness of such Registration Statement or any other registration statement contemplated by this Agreement, or the initiation of any proceedings for that purpose; or (iii) the receipt by the Company of any notification with respect to the suspension of the qualification of any Registrable Securities for sale under the applicable securities or blue sky laws of any jurisdiction. Following the provision of such notice, the Company agrees to as promptly as practicable amend or supplement the prospectus or prospectus supplement or take other appropriate action so that the prospectus or prospectus supplement does not include an untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading in the light of the circumstances then existing and to take such other commercially reasonable action as is awarenecessary to accumulateremove a stop order, suspension, threat thereof or proceedings related thereto;

EX A-11


(g)    upon request and subject to appropriate confidentiality obligations, furnish to each Selling Holder copies of any and all transmittal letters or other correspondence with the SEC or any other governmental agency or self-regulatory body or other body having jurisdiction (including any domestic or foreign securities exchange) relating to such offering of Registrable Securities;
(h)    in the case of an Underwritten Offering, use its stockreasonable best efforts to furnish to the underwriters upon request, (i) an opinion of counsel for the Company dated the date of the closing under the underwriting agreement and (ii) a “cold comfort” letter, dated the pricing date of such Underwritten Offering and a letter of like kind dated the date of the closing under the underwriting agreement, in each case, signed by the independent public accountants who have certified the Company’s financial statements included or incorporated by reference into the applicable registration statement, and each of the opinion and the “cold comfort” letter shall be in customary form and covering substantially the same matters with respect to obtain controlsuch registration statement (and the prospectus and any prospectus supplement included therein) as have been customarily covered in opinions of issuer’s counsel and in accountants’ letters delivered to the underwriters in Underwritten Offerings of securities by the Company and such other matters as such underwriters and Selling Holders may reasonably request;
(i)    otherwise use its reasonable best efforts to comply with all applicable rules and regulations of the SEC, and make available to its security holders (which may be satisfied by making such information available on the SEC’s Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis and Retrieval system or any successor system known as “EDGAR”), as soon as reasonably practicable, an earnings statement, covering a period of twelve months beginning within three months after the Effective Date of such Registration Statement, which earnings statement shall satisfy the provisions of Section 11(a) of the Securities Act and Rule 158 promulgated thereunder;
(j)    make available to the appropriate representatives of the Managing Underwriter and Selling Holders access to such information and Company personnel as is reasonable and customary to enable such parties to establish a due diligence defense under the Securities Act; provided, that the Company need not disclose any non-public information to any such representative unless and until such representative has entered into a confidentiality agreement with the Company;
(k)    use its reasonable best efforts to cause all such Registrable Securities registered pursuant to this Agreement to be listed on each securities exchange or nationally recognized quotation system on which the Common Stock are then listed or quoted;
(l)    use its reasonable best efforts to cause the Registrable Securities to be registered with or approved by such other governmental agencies or authorities as may be necessary by virtue of the business and operations of the Company to enable the Selling Holders to consummate the disposition of such Registrable Securities;
(m)    provide a transfer agent and it isregistrar for all Registrable Securities covered by such registration statement not part of a plan by management to recommend a series of similar amendments tolater than the Board and the stockholders.

Effective Date

If approved of such registration statement;

EX A-12


(n)    enter into customary agreements and take such other actions as are reasonably requested by the stockholders, it is anticipatedSelling Holders or the underwriters, if any, in order to expedite or facilitate the disposition of such Registrable Securities (including, in the case of an Underwritten Offering of $50 million or greater of Registrable Securities (calculated based on the Registrable Securities Amount), making appropriate officers of the Company available to participate in any “road show” presentations before analysts, and other customary marketing activities (including one-on-one meetings with prospective purchasers of the Registrable Securities)); provided, however, that the amendmentofficers of the Company shall not be required to the Certificatededicate an unreasonably burdensome amount of Incorporation will become effectivetime in connection with activities for any Underwritten Offering;
(o)    if requested by a Selling Holder, (i) as soon as practicable after the Annual Meeting. Upon approval of this proposal at the Annual Meeting, we will file the Article Four Amendment with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware, and the number of authorized shares of Common Stock willincorporate in a prospectus supplement or post-effective amendment such information as such Selling Holder reasonably requests to be increased from 150 million shares to 300 million shares (without affecting par value).

If stockholders do not approve this proposal at the Annual Meeting, then we may seek to obtain stockholder approval of an increase in authorized shares at future stockholder meetings. Approval of the amendmentincluded therein relating to the Certificatesale and distribution of Incorporation requires the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of our outstanding shares of Common Stock.  We believe that this is a “routine matter” for purposes of the NYSE rules, and so brokers will be entitled to vote shares with respect to which they do not receive voting instructions from the beneficial owners.  Abstentions and any broker non-votes will have the same effect as a vote against the proposal to amend the Certificate of Incorporation.  Lone Star Value Management has agreed to vote its shares in accordance with the recommendation of Institutional Shareholder Services with respect to the approval of the amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation to increase the number of shares.

“RESOLVED, that the amendment to Article Four of the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation increasing the total number of authorized shares of Common Stock is hereby approved.”

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE “FOR” THE INCREASE IN AUTHORIZED SHARES OF COMMON STOCK FROM 150 MILLION SHARES TO 300 MILLION SHARES

27


PROPOSAL 4

RATIFICATION OF THE APPOINTMENT OF THE INDEPENDENT REGISTERED

PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM, GRANT THORNTON LLP, FOR 2016

The Audit Committee has appointed Grant Thornton LLP, as the independent registered public accounting firm, to audit our consolidated financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2016. We are asking stockholders to ratify this appointment.

The Audit Committee conducted a competitive process to review the appointment of our independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2016. The process included consideration of audit firms, in addition to Ernst & Young LLP, which was the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for the year ended December 31, 2015. The decision to evaluate more than one potential audit firm was made in connection with the Audit Committee’s annual review of the independent registered public accounting firm. Upon completion of this process, the Audit Committee informed Ernst & Young LLP that they would no longer serve as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm no later than the date of the filing of the Company’s Form 10-K for the 2015 fiscal year. The Audit Committee appointed Grant Thornton LLP, effective as of March 3, 2016, as the Company’s registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2016.

Ernst & Young LLP’s audit report on the Company’s consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2015 did not contain an adverse opinion or disclaimer of opinion, nor was it qualified or modified as to uncertainty, audit scope or accounting principles. During the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2015 and through March 2, 2016, there were no (i) disagreements (as defined in Item 304(a)(1)(iv) of Regulation S-K) between the Company and Ernst & Young LLP on any matter of accounting principle or practice, financial statement disclosure, or auditing scope or procedure which, if not resolved to Ernst & Young’s satisfaction, would have caused it to make reference to the matter in its report on the Company’s consolidated financial statements for the relevant year.

Fees

The following table sets forth the fee incurred by us in fiscal years 2014 and 2015 for services performed by Ernst & Young LLP:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fee Category

 

2014

 

2015

Audit (1)

 

$

749,664 

 

$

765,117 

Tax (2)

 

 

17,150 

 

 

32,700 

  Total

 

$

766,814 

 

$

797,817 

(1)

Audit fees consist of the aggregate fees billed for professional services related to the audit and quarterly reviews of our financial statements and for services that are normally provided by the accountant in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements.

(2)

Tax fees consist of the aggregate fees billed for professional services rendered for tax compliance (including filing state and federal tax returns), tax advice and tax planning. Tax fees do not include fees for services rendered in connection with the audit.

Pre-Approval PolicyThe Audit Committee pre-approves all audit and permissible non-audit services (including the fees and terms thereof) to be performed for us by our independent registered public accounting firm, as required by applicable law or listing standards and subject to the terms of the audit and non-audit services pre-approval policy in accordance with the Audit Committee charter. The Committee may delegate authority to one or more of its members when appropriate,Registrable Securities, including the authority to grant pre-approvals of audit and permitted non-audit services, provided that decisions of any such member to grant pre-approvals are consistent with the terms of the Pre-Approval Policy and are presented to the full Committee at its next scheduled meeting.

Audit Committee Report

Acting pursuant to its Charter, the Audit Committee reviewed and discussed our audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2015, with management and Ernst & Young LLP, and recommended to our Board that our audited

28


consolidated financial statements be included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015, for filing with the SEC. This recommendation was based on:

·

the Audit Committee’s review of the audited financial statements;

·

discussion of the financial statements with management;

·

discussion with our independent registered public accounting firm, Ernst & Young LLP, of the matters required to be discussed by auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America, including the communication matters required to be discussed by Auditing Standard No. 1301, Communications with Audit Committees, issued by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board;

·

receipt from Ernst & Young LLP of the written disclosures and letter required by Independence Standards Board Standard No. 1 (Independence Discussions with Audit Committees);

·

discussions with Ernst & Young LLP regarding its independence from Callon, its Board and management;

·

Ernst & Young LLP’s confirmation that it would issue its opinion that the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, our financial position and the results of our operations and cash flows for the periods presented in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America; and

·

other matters the Audit Committee deemed relevant and appropriate.

Management is responsible for the preparation, presentation and integrity of our consolidated financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, the establishment and maintenance of our disclosure controls and procedures, and the establishment, maintenance and evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal controls over financial reporting. The independent registered public accounting firm is responsible for performing an independent audit of our consolidated financial statements and internal control over financial reporting in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB and issuing reports thereon. The Audit Committee’s responsibilities include monitoring and overseeing these processes.

Members of the Audit Committee rely, without independent verification, on the information provided to them and on the representations made by management and our independent registered public accounting firm. The Audit Committee’s considerations and discussions referred to above do not assure that the audit of our financial statements and internal control over financial reporting have been carried out according to the standards of the PCAOB, that the financial statements are presented according to GAAP, or that Ernst & Young LLP is in fact independent.

Respectfully submitted by the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors,

John C. Wallace, Chairman

L. Richard Flury

Larry D. McVay

Anthony J. Nocchiero

The submission of this matter for approval by stockholders is not legally required; however, the Board and Audit Committee believe that this submission is consistent with best practices in corporate governance and is an opportunity for stockholders to provide direct feedback to the Board and Audit Committee on an important issue of corporate governance. Although the results of the vote are not binding on the Audit Committee, if the appointment is not ratified the Audit Committee will consider whether it should select another independent registered public accounting firm. A representative of both Ernst & Young LLP and Grant Thornton LLP will be present at the 2016 Annual Meeting and will have the opportunity to make a statement, if they desire, and to respond to appropriate questions from stockholders.

This proposal will be approved if it receives the affirmative vote of a majority of shares of our common stock cast at the Annual Meeting and entitled to vote on this proposal. Broker non-votes and abstentions will not affect the outcome of this proposal. Lone Star Value Management has agreed to vote its shares for approval of Grant Thornton LLP as our auditors.

29


THEBOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE “FOR” THE RATIFICATION OF THE APPOINTMENT OF GRANT THORNTON LLPAS THE COMPANY’S INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2016.

30


BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP OF SECURITIES

Management and Principal Stockholders

The following table sets forth, as of the Record Date, certain information with respect to the beneficial ownershipnumber of sharesRegistrable Securities being offered or sold, the purchase price being paid therefor and any other terms of common stock held by: (i) all persons known by usthe offering of the Registrable Securities to be sold in such offering, and (ii) as soon as practicable make all required filings of such prospectus supplement or post-effective amendment after being notified of the beneficial ownersmatters to be incorporated in such prospectus supplement or post-effective amendment; and

(p)    if reasonably required by the Company’s transfer agent, use commercially reasonably efforts to promptly deliver any authorizations, certificates and directions required by the transfer agent which authorize and direct the transfer agent to transfer such Registrable Securities without legend, in accordance with applicable law, upon sale by the Holder of 5%such Registrable Securities under the Registration Statement.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Section 2.04, the Company shall not name a Holder as an underwriter (as defined in Section 2(a)(11) of the Securities Act) in any Registration Statement without such Holder’s consent.
Each Selling Holder, upon receipt of notice from the Company of the happening of any event of the kind described in Section 2.04(f), shall forthwith discontinue offers and sales of the Registrable Securities by means of a prospectus or prospectus supplement until such Selling Holder’s receipt of the copies of the supplemented or amended prospectus contemplated by Section 2.04(f) or until it is advised in writing by the Company that the use of the prospectus may be resumed and has received copies of any additional or supplemental filings incorporated by reference in the prospectus, and, if so directed by the Company, such Selling Holder shall, or shall request the Managing Underwriter, if any, to deliver to the Company (at the Company’s expense) all copies in their possession or control, other than permanent file copies then in such Selling Holder’s possession, of the prospectus covering such Registrable Securities current at the time of receipt of such notice.
Section 2.05    Cooperation by Holders. The Company shall have no obligation to include Registrable Securities of a Holder in a Registration Statement or in an Underwritten Offering pursuant to Section 2.02(a) or Section 2.03(a) who has failed to timely furnish after receipt of a written request from the Company such information that the Company determines,
EX A-13


after consultation with its counsel, is reasonably required in order for the registration statement or prospectus supplement, as applicable, to comply with the Securities Act.
Section 2.06    Restrictions on Public Sale by Holders of Registrable Securities. To the extent requested by the Managing Underwriter, each Holder of Registrable Securities that participates in an Underwritten Offering will enter into a customary letter agreement with underwriters providing such Holder will not effect any public sale or distribution of Registrable Securities during the 60 calendar-day period beginning on the date of a prospectus or prospectus supplement filed with the SEC with respect to the pricing of such Underwritten Offering, provided that, notwithstanding the foregoing, (i) the duration of the foregoing restrictions shall be no longer than the duration of the shortest restriction imposed by the Underwriters on the Company or the officers, directors or any other Affiliate of the Company on whom a restriction is imposed and (ii) that the restrictions set forth in this Section 2.06 shall not apply to any Registrable Securities that are included in such Underwritten Offering by such Holder. In addition, this Section 2.06 shall not apply to any Holder that is not entitled to participate in such Underwritten Offering, whether because such Holder delivered an Opt-Out Notice prior to receiving notice of the Underwritten Offering or because the Registrable Securities held by such Holder may be disposed of without restriction pursuant to Rule 144 under the Securities Act (or any successor or similar provision adopted by the SEC then in effect).
Section 2.07    Expenses.
(a)    Expenses. The Company shall pay all reasonable Registration Expenses as determined reasonably and in good faith by the Board, including, in the case of an Underwritten Offering, the Registration Expenses of an Underwritten Offering, regardless of whether any sale is made pursuant to such Underwritten Offering. Each Selling Holder shall pay its pro rata share of all Selling Expenses in connection with any sale of its Registrable Securities hereunder. For the avoidance of doubt, each Selling Holder’s pro rata allocation of Selling Expenses shall be the percentage derived by dividing (i) the number of Registrable Securities sold by such Selling Holder in connection with such sale by (ii) the aggregate number of Registrable Securities sold by all Selling Holders in connection with such sale. In addition, except as otherwise provided in Sections 2.07 and 2.08 hereof, the Company shall not be responsible for legal fees incurred by Holders in connection with the exercise of such Holders’ rights hereunder.
(b)    Certain Definitions. “Registration Expenses” means all expenses incident to the Company’s performance under or compliance with this Agreement to effect the registration of Registrable Securities on a Registration Statement pursuant to Section 2.01 or an Underwritten Offering covered under this Agreement, and the disposition of such Registrable Securities, including, without limitation, all registration, filing, securities exchange listing and NYSE fees, all registration, filing, qualification and other fees and expenses of complying with securities or blue sky laws, fees of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc., fees of transfer agents and registrars, all word processing, duplicating and printing expenses, any transfer taxes, and the fees and disbursements of counsel and independent public accountants for the Company, including the expenses of any special audits or “cold comfort” letters required by or incident to such performance and compliance. “Selling Expenses” means all underwriting discounts and
EX A-14


selling commissions or similar fees or arrangements allocable to the sale of the Registrable Securities, transfer taxes and fees and disbursements of counsel to the Selling Holders, except for the reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel for the Selling Holders required to be paid by the Company pursuant to Sections 2.07 and 2.08.
Section 2.08    Indemnification.
(a)    By the Company. In the event of a registration of any Registrable Securities under the Securities Act pursuant to this Agreement, the Company shall indemnify and hold harmless each Selling Holder thereunder, its directors, officers, managers, members, partners, employees, agents and Affiliates and each Person, if any, who controls such Selling Holder or its Affiliates within the meaning of the Securities Act and the Exchange Act, and its directors, officers, members, partners, employees or agents (collectively, the “Selling Holder Indemnified Persons”), against any losses, claims, damages, third party expenses incurred by or on such Holder’s behalf or liabilities (including reasonable attorneys’ fees and third party expenses incurred by or on such Holder’s behalf) (collectively, “Losses”), joint or several, to which such Selling Holder Indemnified Person may become subject under the Securities Act, the Exchange Act or otherwise, insofar as such Losses (or actions or proceedings, whether commenced or threatened, in respect thereof) arise out of or are based upon any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of any material fact (in the case of any prospectus, in light of the circumstances under which such statement is made) contained in (which, for the avoidance of doubt, includes documents incorporated by reference in) such Registration Statement or any other registration statement contemplated by this Agreement, any preliminary prospectus, prospectus supplement or final prospectus contained therein, or any amendment or supplement thereof, or any free writing prospectus relating thereto or arise out of or are based upon the omission or alleged omission to state therein a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein (in the case of a prospectus, in light of the circumstances under which they were made) not misleading, and shall reimburse each such Selling Holder Indemnified Person for any legal or other third party expenses reasonably incurred by or on such Holder’s behalf in connection with investigating, defending or resolving any such Loss or actions or proceedings; provided, however, that the Company shall not be liable in any such case if and to the extent that any such Loss arises out of or is based upon an untrue statement or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged omission so made in conformity with information furnished by such Selling Holder Indemnified Person in writing specifically for use in such Registration Statement or such other registration statement, or prospectus supplement, as applicable. Such indemnity shall remain in full force and effect regardless of any investigation made by or on behalf of such Selling Holder Indemnified Person, and shall survive the transfer of such securities by such Selling Holder.
(b)    By Each Selling Holder. Each Selling Holder agrees severally and not jointly to indemnify and hold harmless the Company, its directors, officers, employees and agents and each Person, if any, who controls the Company within the meaning of the Securities Act or of the Exchange Act, and its directors, officers, employees and agents, to the same extent as the foregoing indemnity from the Company to the Selling Holders, but only with respect to information regarding such Selling Holder furnished in writing by or on behalf of such Selling
EX A-15


Holder expressly for inclusion in such Registration Statement or any other registration statement contemplated by this Agreement, any preliminary prospectus, prospectus supplement or final prospectus contained therein, or any amendment or supplement thereof, or any free writing prospectus relating thereto; provided, however, that the liability of each Selling Holder shall not be greater in amount than the dollar amount of the proceeds (net of any Selling Expenses) received by such Selling Holder from the sale of the Registrable Securities giving rise to such indemnification.
(c)    Notice. Promptly after receipt by an indemnified party hereunder of notice of the commencement of any action, such indemnified party shall, if a claim in respect thereof is to be made against the indemnifying party hereunder, notify the indemnifying party in writing thereof, but the omission to so notify the indemnifying party shall not relieve it from any liability that it may have to any indemnified party other than under this Section 2.08. In any action brought against any indemnified party, it shall notify the indemnifying party of the commencement thereof. The indemnifying party shall be entitled to participate in and, to the extent it shall wish, to assume and undertake the defense thereof with counsel reasonably satisfactory to such indemnified party and, after notice from the indemnifying party to such indemnified party of its election so to assume and undertake the defense thereof, the indemnifying party shall not be liable to such indemnified party under this Section 2.08 for any legal or other expenses subsequently incurred by such indemnified party in connection with the defense thereof other than reasonable costs of investigation and of liaison with counsel so selected; provided, however, that, (i) if the indemnifying party has failed to assume the defense or employ counsel reasonably acceptable to the indemnified party or (ii) if the defendants in any such action include both the indemnified party and the indemnifying party and counsel to the indemnified party shall have concluded that there may be reasonable defenses available to the indemnified party that are different from or additional to those available to the indemnifying party, or if the interests of the indemnified party reasonably may be deemed to conflict with the interests of the indemnifying party, then the indemnified party shall have the right to select a separate counsel and to assume such legal defense and otherwise to participate in the defense of such action, with the reasonable expenses and fees of such separate counsel and other reasonable expenses related to such participation to be reimbursed by the indemnifying party as incurred. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, no indemnifying party shall settle any action brought against any indemnified party with respect to which such indemnified party is or may be entitled to indemnification hereunder without the consent of the indemnified party, unless the settlement thereof imposes no liability or obligation on, and includes a complete and unconditional release from all liability of, and does not contain any admission of wrongdoing by, the indemnified party.
(d)    Contribution. If the indemnification provided for in this Section 2.08 is held by a court or government agency of competent jurisdiction to be unavailable to any indemnified party or is insufficient to hold them harmless in respect of any Losses, then each such indemnifying party, in lieu of indemnifying such indemnified party, shall contribute to the amount paid or payable by such indemnified party as a result of such Loss in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative fault of the indemnifying party on the one hand and of such indemnified party on the other in connection with the statements or omissions that resulted in such Losses, as well
EX A-16


as any other relevant equitable considerations; provided, however, that in no event shall such Selling Holder be required to contribute an aggregate amount in excess of the dollar amount of proceeds (net of Selling Expenses) received by such Selling Holder from the sale of Registrable Securities giving rise to such indemnification. The relative fault of the indemnifying party on the one hand and the indemnified party on the other shall be determined by reference to, among other things, whether the untrue or alleged untrue statement of a material fact or the omission or alleged omission to state a material fact has been made by, or relates to, information supplied by such party, and the parties’ relative intent, knowledge, access to information and opportunity to correct or prevent such statement or omission. The parties hereto agree that it would not be just and equitable if contributions pursuant to this paragraph were to be determined by pro rata allocation or by any other method of allocation that does not take account of the equitable considerations referred to herein. The amount paid by an indemnified party as a result of the Losses referred to in the first sentence of this paragraph shall be deemed to include any legal or other expenses reasonably incurred by such indemnified party in connection with investigating, defending or resolving any Loss that is the subject of this paragraph. No person guilty of fraudulent misrepresentation (within the meaning of Section 11(f) of the Securities Act) shall be entitled to contribution from any Person who is not guilty of such fraudulent misrepresentation.
(e)    Other Indemnification. The provisions of this Section 2.08 shall be in addition to any other rights to indemnification or contribution that an indemnified party may have pursuant to law, equity, contract or otherwise. To the extent that any of the Holders is, or would be expected to be, deemed to be an underwriter of Registrable Securities pursuant to any SEC comments or policies or any court of law or otherwise, the Company agrees that (i) the indemnification and contribution provisions contained in this Section 2.08 shall be applicable to the benefit of such Holder in its role as deemed underwriter in addition to its capacity as a Holder (so long as the amount for which any other Holder is or becomes responsible does not exceed the amount for which such Holder would be responsible if the Holder were not deemed to be an underwriter of Registrable Securities) and (ii) such Holder and its representatives shall be entitled to conduct the due diligence which would normally be conducted in connection with an offering of securities registered under the Securities Act, including receipt of customary opinions and comfort letters.
Section 2.09    Rule 144 Reporting. With a view to making available the benefits of certain rules and regulations of the SEC that may permit the sale of the Registrable Securities to the public without registration, the Company agrees to use its reasonable best efforts to:
(a)    make and keep public information regarding the Company available, as those terms are understood and defined in Rule 144 under the Securities Act (or any successor or similar provision adopted by the SEC then in effect), at all times from and after the date hereof (which may be satisfied by making such information available on EDGAR);
(b)    file with the SEC in a timely manner all reports and other documents required of the Company under the Securities Act and the Exchange Act at all times from and after the date hereof; and
EX A-17


(c)    so long as a Holder owns any Registrable Securities, furnish, (i) to the extent accurate, forthwith upon request, a written statement of the Company that it has complied with the reporting requirements of Rule 144 under the Securities Act (or any similar provision then in effect) and (ii) unless otherwise available electronically at no additional charge via the SEC’s EDGAR system, to such Holder forthwith upon request a copy of the most recent annual or quarterly report of the Company, and such other reports and documents as such Holder may reasonably request in availing itself of any rule or regulation of the SEC allowing such Holder to sell any such securities without registration.
Section 2.10    Transfer or Assignment of Registration Rights. The rights to cause the Company to register Registrable Securities under this Article II may not be transferred or assigned except pursuant to this Section 2.10.
(a)    If a Holder transfers or assigns all (and not less than all) of the Registerable Securities Beneficially Owned by such Holder, then such Holder may transfer or assign its rights pursuant to this Agreement to such transferee or assignee.
(b)    If a Holder transfers or assigns (A) 20% or more of the outstanding common stock; (ii) each Director; (iii)Registerable Securities issued on the nominees for Director; (iv) each current executive officer named in the Summary Compensation Table; and (v)Closing Date but less than all of our executive officersthe Registerable Securities issued on the Closing Date, then the transferee or assignee thereof shall be entitled to the rights granted to a Holder pursuant to this Agreement except those contained in Section 2.03 and Directors as(B) less than 20% of the Registerable Securities issued on the Closing Date, then the transferee or assignee thereof shall be entitled to the rights granted to a group. InformationHolder pursuant to this Agreement except those contained in Sections 2.02 and 2.03.
(c)    In the case of any such transfer or assignment where the transferee or assignee shall have any rights of a Holder hereunder, the Holder making such transfer or assignment must provide the Company written notice of any said transfer or assignment, stating the name and address of each such transferee or assignee and identifying the Registerable Securities Beneficially Owned thereby.
Section 2.11    Limitation on Subsequent Registration Rights. From and after the date hereof, the Company shall not, without the prior written consent of the Required Holders, enter into any agreement with any current or future holder of any equity securities of the Company that would allow such current or future holder to require the Company to include equity securities in any registration statement filed by the Company on a basis other than pari passu with, or expressly subordinated to the piggyback rights granted to the Holders pursuant to Section 2.02; provided, that in no event shall the Company enter into any agreement that would permit another holder of securities of the Company to participate on a superior or pari passu basis (in terms of priority of cut-back based on advice of Underwriters) with a Holder requesting registration or takedown in an Underwritten Offering pursuant to Section 2.03(a).
Section 2.12    Termination of Registration Rights. The rights to cause the Company to register Registrable Securities granted to the Required Holders by the Company under this Article II shall terminate upon the date on which all Registrable Securities no longer constitute Registrable Securities in accordance with Section 1.02.
EX A-18


ARTICLE III
MISCELLANEOUS
Section 3.01    Communications. All notices and other communications provided for or permitted hereunder shall be made in writing by electronic mail, courier service or personal delivery:
(a)    if to Kimmeridge:
c/o Kimmeridge Energy Management Company
412 West 15th Street, 11th Floor
New York, New York 10011
Attention:Noam Lockshin
Email:noam.lockshin@kimmeridge.com
With a copy to:
c/o Kimmeridge Energy Management Company
412 West 15th Street, 11th Floor
New York, New York 10011
Attention:Tamar Goldstein
Email:tamar.goldstein@kimmeridge.com

With a copy to (which shall not constitute notice):

c/o Sidley Austin LLP
1000 Louisiana Street, Suite 5900
Houston, Texas 77002
Attention:Irving L. Rotter
George J. Vlahakos
Email:irotter@sidley.com
gvlahakos@sidley.com
(b)    if to a transferee of Kimmeridge, to such Holder at the address provided pursuant to Section 2.10 above; and
(c)    if to the Company:
EX A-19


Callon Petroleum Company
2000 W. Sam Houston Parkway S., Suite 2000
Houston, TX 77042
Attention:Michol L. Ecklund, Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary
Email:mecklund@callon.com
legal@callon.com

With a copy to (which shall not constitute notice):

c/o Kirkland & Ellis LLP
609 Main Street
Houston, Texas 77002
Attention:Sean T. Wheeler, P.C.
Michael W. Rigdon
Email:sean.wheeler@kirkland.com
michael.rigdon@kirkland.com

All such notices and communications shall be deemed to have been received at the time delivered by hand, if personally delivered; when receipt acknowledged, if sent via electronic mail; and when actually received, if sent by courier service or any other means.
Section 3.02    Successor and Assigns. This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be binding upon the successors and permitted assigns of each of the parties, including subsequent Holders of Registrable Securities to the extent permitted herein.
Section 3.03    Assignment of Rights. The rights, interests or obligations of the Holders hereunder may not be transferred or assigned, by operation of law or otherwise, in whole or in part, by the Holders without the prior written consent of the Company, except in accordance with Section 2.10 hereof.
Section 3.04    Recapitalization, Exchanges, Etc. Affecting the Common Stock. The provisions of this Agreement shall apply to the full extent set forth in the tableherein with respect to beneficial ownershipany and all equity interests of common stock has been obtainedthe Company or any successor or assign of the Company (whether by merger, acquisition, consolidation, reorganization, sale of assets or otherwise) that may be issued in respect of, in exchange for or in substitution of, the Registrable Securities, and shall be appropriately adjusted for combinations, share splits, recapitalizations, pro rata distributions of shares and the like occurring after the date of this Agreement.
EX A-20


Section 3.05    Aggregation of Registrable Securities. All Registrable Securities held or acquired by Persons who are Affiliates of one another shall be aggregated together for the purpose of determining the availability of any rights under this Agreement.
Section 3.06    Specific Performance. Damages in the event of breach of this Agreement by a party hereto may be difficult, if not impossible, to ascertain, and it is therefore agreed that each such Person, in addition to and without limiting any other remedy or right it may have, shall have the right to an injunction or other equitable relief in any court of competent jurisdiction, enjoining any such breach, and enforcing specifically the terms and provisions hereof, and each of the parties hereto hereby waives any and all defenses it may have on the ground of lack of jurisdiction or competence of the court to grant such an injunction or other equitable relief. The existence of this right shall not preclude any such Person from filings madepursuing any other rights and remedies at law or in equity that such Person may have.
Section 3.07    Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts and by different parties hereto in separate counterparts, including facsimile or .pdf counterparts, each of which counterparts, when so executed and delivered, shall be deemed to be an original and all of which counterparts, taken together, shall constitute but one and the same Agreement.
Section 3.08    Headings. The headings in this Agreement are for convenience of reference only and shall not limit or otherwise affect the meaning hereof.
Section 3.09    Governing Law. This Agreement, including all issues and questions concerning its application, construction, validity, interpretation and enforcement, shall be construed in accordance with, and governed by, the named beneficial owners with the SEC aslaws of the Record DateState of New York without regard to the choice of law or conflicts of law.
Section 3.10    Waiver of Jury Trial. THE PARTIES TO THIS AGREEMENT EACH HEREBY WAIVE, AND AGREE TO CAUSE THEIR AFFILIATES TO WAIVE, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, ANY RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY OF ANY CLAIM, DEMAND, ACTION OR CAUSE OF ACTION (A) ARISING UNDER THIS AGREEMENT OR (B) IN ANY WAY CONNECTED WITH OR RELATED OR INCIDENTAL TO THE DEALINGS OF THE PARTIES HERETO IN RESPECT OF THIS AGREEMENT OR ANY OF THE TRANSACTIONS RELATED HERETO, IN EACH CASE WHETHER NOW EXISTING OR HEREAFTER ARISING, AND WHETHER IN CONTRACT, TORT, EQUITY OR OTHERWISE. THE PARTIES TO THIS AGREEMENT EACH HEREBY AGREE AND CONSENT THAT ANY SUCH CLAIM, DEMAND, ACTION OR CAUSE OF ACTION SHALL BE DECIDED BY COURT TRIAL WITHOUT A JURY AND THAT THE PARTIES TO THIS AGREEMENT MAY FILE AN ORIGINAL COUNTERPART OF A COPY OF THIS AGREEMENT WITH ANY COURT AS WRITTEN EVIDENCE OF THE CONSENT OF THE PARTIES HERETO TO THE WAIVER OF THEIR RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY.
Section 3.11    Severability of Provisions. Any provision of this Agreement that is prohibited or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to such jurisdiction, be ineffective to the
EX A-21


extent of such prohibition or unenforceability without invalidating the remaining provisions hereof or affecting or impairing the validity or enforceability of such provision in any other jurisdiction.
Section 3.12    Entire Agreement. This Agreement and the Exchange Agreement are intended by the parties as a final expression of their agreement and intended to be a complete and exclusive statement of the agreement and understanding of the parties hereto in respect of the subject matter contained herein and therein. There are no restrictions, promises, warranties or undertakings, other than those set forth or referred to herein or in the case of our executive officers and Directors, has been provided to us by such individuals. As of March 18, 2016, the Company had 96,122,341 shares of Common Stock issued, outstanding, and eligible to vote.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Stock 

Name and Address of Beneficial Owner

 

Beneficial Ownership

 

Notes

 

%

Directors

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fred L. Callon

 

620,322 

 

(a)(b)

 

<1%

L. Richard Flury

 

167,999 

 

(a)(c)

 

<1%

Larry D. McVay

 

112,169 

 

(a)(d)

 

<1%

Anthony J. Nocchiero

 

99,033 

 

(a)(e)

 

<1%

John C. Wallace

 

5,000 

 

(a)(f)

 

<1%

Matthew R. Bob

 

16,184 

 

(a)(g)

 

<1%

James M. Trimble

 

4,184 

 

(a)(h)

 

<1%

Michael L. Finch

 

 -

 

(a)(i)

 

<1%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Officers

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gary A. Newberry

 

276,560 

 

(a)(j)

 

<1%

Joseph C. Gatto, Jr.

 

151,030 

 

(a)(k)

 

<1%

Jerry A. Weant

 

34,961 

 

(a)(l)

 

<1%

Mitzi P. Conn

 

61,294 

 

(a)(m)

 

<1%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Directors and Executive Officers (12 persons, as a group)

 

1,548,736 

 

(n)

 

1.61%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Certain Beneficial Owners

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wellington Management Group, LLP

 

7,112,875 

 

(o)

 

7.40%

Dimensional Fund Advisors LP

 

5,443,862 

 

(p)

 

5.66%

(a)

Unless otherwise indicated, each of the persons listed in the table may be deemed to have sole voting and dispositive power with respect to such shares. Beneficial ownership does not include the unvested portion of stock awards due to lack of voting and disposition power, unless such award will vest within sixty days of March 18, 2016. Percentage ownership of a holder or class of holders is calculated by dividing (i) the number of shares of common stock beneficially owned by such holder or class of holders plus the total number of shares of common stock underlying options exercisable or stock awards vesting within sixty days of March 18, 2016, by (ii) the total number of shares of common stock outstanding plus the total number of shares of common stock underlying options exercisable and stock awards vesting within sixty days of March 18, 2016, but not common stock underlying such securities held by any other person.

(b)

Of the 620,322 shares beneficially owned by Fred L. Callon, 352,640 shares are owned directly by him; 25,215 shares are held by him as custodian for certain minor Callon family members; 160,378 shares represent unvested restricted stock units payable in stock and 28,302 restricted stock units payable in cash, which will vest within sixty days of March 18, 2016; and 53,787 shares are owned within the Company’s Employee Savings and Protection Plan. Shares indicated as beneficially owned by Mr. Callon do not include 24,904 shares of common stock owned by his wife over which he disclaims beneficial ownership, 184,052 unvested restricted stock units payable in stock, 21,892 unvested restricted stock units payable in cash, and 158,916 unvested phantom shares payable in cash.

(c)

Of the 167,999 shares beneficially owned by L. Richard Flury, 121,328 shares are owned directly by him; 30,000 shares are held in joint tenancy with his wife; 5,000 shares in stock options, exercisable within 60 days; and 11,671 shares of unvested restricted stock, which will vest within sixty days of March

31


18, 2016. Shares indicated as beneficially owned by Mr. Flury do not include 23,336 restricted stock units awarded pursuant to his election under the Deferred Compensation Plan for Outside Directors, payable in cash upon his separation of service as a Director.

(d)

Of the 112,169 shares beneficially owned by Larry D. McVay, all are owned directly by him. Shares indicated as beneficially owned by Mr. McVay do not include 23,336 unvested restricted stock units payable in stock, and 11,671 restricted stock units awarded pursuant to his election under the Deferred Compensation Plan for Outside Directors, payable in cash upon his separation of service as a Director.

(e)

Of the 99,033 shares beneficially owned by Anthony J. Nocchiero, 87,362 shares are owned directly by him and 11,671 shares of unvested restricted stock that will vest within sixty days of March 18, 2016. Shares indicated as beneficially owned by Mr. Nocchiero do not include 23,336 unvested restricted stock units payable in stock.

(f)

Mr. John C. Wallace has 5,000 stock options exercisable within 60 days.  Mr. Wallace transferred his equity ownership in the Company to The Wallace Family Trust in April 2008. All equity ownership in the Company acquired by Mr. Wallace since April 2008 has also been transferred to the Wallace Family Trust, with the exception of the 18,968 restricted stock units awarded in May 2011, 22,768 restricted stock units awarded in May 2012, 35,014 restricted stock units awarded in May 2013, 12,550 restricted stock units awarded in May 2014 and 14,970 restricted stock units awarded in May 2015 pursuant to his election under the Deferred Compensation Plan for Outside Directors, all of which are payable in cash upon his separation of service as a Director. Mr. Wallace has no voting and dispositive power over the shares owned by the Trust.

(g)

Of the 16,184 shares beneficially owned by Matthew R. Bob, all are owned directly by him. Shares indicated as beneficially owned by Mr. Bob do not include 23,336 unvested restricted stock units payable in stock.

(h)

Of the 4,184 shares beneficially owned by James M. Trimble, all are owned directly by him. Shares indicated as beneficially owned by Mr. Trimble do not include 23,336 unvested restricted stock units payable in stock.

(i)

Michael L. Finch is a new Director who currently does not own any shares of the Company’s stock. Shares indicated as beneficially owned by Mr. Finch do not include 14,970 unvested restricted stock units payable in stock.

(j)

Of the 276,560 shares beneficially owned by Gary A. Newberry, 181,898 shares are owned directly by him; 47,492 shares are owned within the Company’s Employee Savings and Protection Plan; and 40,095 shares represent unvested restricted stock units payable in stock and 7,075 restricted stock units payable in cash that will vest within sixty days of March 18, 2016.  Shares indicated as beneficially owned by Mr. Newberry do not include 67,554 unvested restricted stock units payable in stock, 7,999 unvested restricted stock units payable in cash, and 58,069 unvested phantom shares payable in cash.

(k)

Of the 151,030 shares beneficially owned by Joseph C. Gatto, Jr., 85,482 shares are owned directly by him; 16,878 shares are owned within the Company’s Employee Savings and Protection Plan; 1,500 shares are Series A Preferred Stock and 40,095 shares represent unvested restricted stock units payable in stock and 7,075 restricted stock units payable in cash that will vest within sixty days of March 18, 2016. Shares indicated as beneficially owned by Mr. Gatto do not include 1,600 shares of common stock owned by his mother over which he disclaims beneficial ownership, 67,554 unvested restricted stock units payable in stock, 7,999 unvested restricted stock units payable in cash, and 58,069 unvested phantom shares payable in cash.

(l)

Of the 34,961 shares beneficially owned by Jerry A. Weant, 30,000 shares are owned directly by him; 2,000 are held in a family trust and 2,961 shares are owned within the Company’s Employee Savings and Protection Plan.  Shares indicated as beneficially owned by Mr. Weant do not include 28,984 unvested restricted stock units payable in stock, 3,180 unvested restricted stock units payable in cash, and 20,842 unvested phantom shares payable in cash.

(m)

Of the 61,294 shares beneficially owned by Mitzi P. Conn, 20,548 shares are owned directly by her; 21,878 shares are owned within the Company’s Employee Savings and Protection Plan; and 16,038 shares represent unvested restricted stock units payable in stock and 2,830 restricted stock units payable in cash that will vest within sixty days of March 18, 2016.  Shares indicated as beneficially owned by Ms. Conn do not include 28,984 unvested restricted stock units payable in stock, 3,180 unvested restricted stock units payable in cash, and 20,842 unvested phantom shares payable in cash.

(n)Includes 10,000 stock options, exercisable within 60 days; 325,230 shares of unvested restricted stock which will vest within sixty days of March 18, 2016; and 142,996 shares are owned within the Company’s Employee Savings and Protection Plan.

(o)

Information is based upon a Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC on February 11, 2016 by Wellington Management Group, LLP, Wellington Group Holdings LLP, Wellington Investment Advisors Holdings LLP and Wellington Management Company LLP (collectively “Wellington”). In this Schedule 13G, Wellington represents that it has shared voting power with respect to 7,112,875 shares of common stock and shared dispositive power with respect to 8,147,867 shares of common stock. The address of the principal business office of Wellington Management Group, LLP is 280 Congress St., Boston, MA  02210.

(p)

Information is based upon a Schedule 13G filed with the SEC on December 31, 2015 by Dimensional Advisors LP (“Dimensional”). In this Schedule 13G, Dimensional represents that it has sole voting power with respect to 5,443,862 shares of common stock and sole dispositive power with respect to 5,615,116 shares of common stock. The address of the principal business office of Dimensional Advisors LP is 6300 Bee Cave Road,Austin, TX 78746. 

With respect to shares issuable upon exercise of stock options, the holders or class of holders acquire investment power for these shares immediately upon a “change of control,” as defined in the applicable plan.

32


Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance.  Our executive officers and Directors are required to file reports with the SEC, disclosing the amount and nature of their beneficial ownership in our common stock, as well as changes in that ownership. To our knowledge, based solely on its review of these reports and written representations from these individuals that no other reports were required, all required reports were timely filed during 2015.

33


COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

Oversight of Executive Compensation Program

The Compensation Committee (the “Committee”), appointed by our Board, assists the Board in performing its fiduciary responsibilities relating to the compensation of our CEO and other NEOs. The Committee is responsible for the incentive compensation programs, which include programs designed for our executive management team, including the NEOs listed below.

The following compensation discussion and analysis (“CD&A”) is intended to cover all elements of compensation paid to our NEOs and to describe the Committee’s rationale in structuring our executive compensation program designed primarily to incentivize our NEOs to achieve both short-term and long-term corporate goals that enhance stockholder value. Specifically, we design policies to support the achievement of our strategic objectives by aligning the interests of our NEOs with those of our stockholders, with operational and financial performance goals linked to long-term equity and equity-based compensation.

Our NEOs for 2015 were:

NEO

Title

Fred L. Callon

Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and President (“CEO”)

Gary A. Newberry

Senior Vice President, Operations (“SVP Ops”)

Joseph C. Gatto, Jr.

Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer (“CFO”)

Jerry A. Weant

Vice President, Land

Mitzi P. Conn

Corporate Controller and Principal Accounting Officer

Executive Summary and 2015 Highlights

The Committee believes that our executive compensation program has played a significant role in our ability to deliver stockholder value built upon strong financial and operational results. Our industry has experienced a decline in commodity prices since the fourth quarter of 2014 stemming from the global oversupply of crude oil. While we have no control over commodity prices, we believe we have positioned the Company to better manage this challenging commodity price environment than many of our industry peers. Leveraging our operational momentum since becoming a pure-play, Permian Basin operator in late 2013, we have demonstrated our ongoing ability to consistently create stockholder value, even in this lower commodity price environment. Specifically, we focused on preserving our operating margin by working closely with our service partners to reduce our drilling, completion and operating costs, while also working internally to reduce our overhead costs, allowing us to align our cost structure with current commodity prices. These quick responses in a challenging environment, coupled with two successful equity raises, strengthened our balance sheet and overall financial flexibility and liquidity. Collectively, our dramatic year-over-year production and proved reserves base growth demonstrate our success.

After entering 2015 with a three-drilling-rig development program, we responded to a challenging commodity price environment by quickly moderating our pace, returning to a two-drilling rig program during the first quarter of 2015. By the third quarter of 2015, we once again demonstrated our operational flexibility and commitment to maintaining a strong balance sheet by quickly modifying our development plans to focus almost exclusively on developing the Lower Spraberry zone across our Central Area – a zone that offers compelling returns even in a low commodity price environment. Ever mindful of the environment in which we operate and our stated goal of achieving cash flow neutrality during 2016, we further modified our development program during the first quarter of 2016 by slowing our development pace from two drilling rigs to one. The moderated activity level positions us to achieve cash flow neutrality in 2016 while simultaneously growing production, maintain operational momentum and healthy vendor relationship, and pursue inorganic growth opportunities on which we could utilize our second horizontal drilling rig.

34


Key accomplishments in 2015 include:

Accomplishment

Description

Production growth

Grew production 70% year-over-year to 9,610 BOE/d (80% oil) in 2015 vs. 5,649 BOE/d in 2014.

Reserve growth

Increased proved reserves year-over-year by 65% to 54.3 MMBOE from 32.8 MMBOE at year-end 2014.

Increased PDPs by 57% to 28.6 MMBOE from 18.2 MMBOE.

Operational efficiency

Drilled 36 gross (27.1 net) Horizontal (Hz) wells equating to 16 wells per drilling-rig, a 33% increase over the 12 Hz wells per drilling-rig in 2014.

Completed 34 gross (26.2 net) Hz wells, a 10% increase over the 31 gross Hz completions in 2014.

Continued to improve drilling and completion efficiency, achieving an average horizontal well cost of under $5.5 million for 7,500’ lateral wells vs $7.4 million in 2014, with line-of-sight to further reductions to achieve target of $5.0 - $5.2 million, among the lowest cost operators in the Permian Basin.

Financial strength

Enhanced financial flexibility by completing two strategic equity offerings, raising over $175 million in net proceeds, funding growth and reducing leverage.

Built a strong derivatives position with more than 60% of our estimated 2016 production hedged with downside protection.

Increased the senior secured revolving credit facility’s borrowing base to $300 million, relative to $250 million in 2014 and $83 million in 2013.

Cost reductions

Significantly reduced our operating and administrative cost structures delivering consistent operating margins each quarter throughout 2015  and positioning us for similar margins in 2016 despite lower commodity prices, achieving an LOE per BOE of $7.71, down 29% from $10.85 in 2014 and 45% from $14.00 in 2013.

Acreage and well inventory growth - Acquisition

Acquired nearly 630 net acres at competitive prices in our core Central Area fields (Carpe Diem and Cassleman-Bohannon fields (“CaBo”), located primarily in Midland and Andrews Counties, adding production of 360 BOE/d (84% oil) and added 34 net potential horizontal drilling locations.

Total acreage position is 100% HBP allowing for complete operational flexibility.

Well inventory growth: Delineation

Successfully developed our first Middle Spraberry well during 2015, effectively de-risking 100 additional well locations across our Central Area fields.

Increased our horizontal drilling inventory to approximately 504 gross locations based solely on five currently producing zones. With the addition of drilling locations from other prospective zones, this drilling inventory increases to over 1,000 drilling locations.

Well inventory growth: Down-spacing

Successfully tested tighter spacing in the Lower Spraberry zone, effectively adding approximately 50 de-risked horizontal well locations across our acreage.

Safety & Training

Achieved an OSHA Recordable Incident Rate (“ORIR”) in the field of 0.73, attributable to enhanced employee safety through near-miss reporting, with a focus on quality engagements. 

Had only one lost-time accident associated with our work activities in 2015.

Staging future efficiencies

Ended 2015 with over 80% of our production tied into gathering systems after converting nearly 60% of our production gathering system during 2015, improving operating margins by reducing transportation expenses, while also improving operational reliability associated with trucking production.

Built on the efficient, pad-development strategy we began in 2012 by investing in additional water handling infrastructure across our acreage to increase operational control by significantly reducing 3rd party service providers and reduce expenses associated with water off-take. 

35


Role of Stockholder Say-on-Pay Advisory Vote

At the 2015 annual meeting of stockholders, our stockholders voted approximately 96% in favor of the compensation of the NEOs as described in our 2015 proxy statement. In consideration of the results, the Committee acknowledged the support received from our shareholders and viewed the results as a confirmation of the Company’s existing executive compensation policies and decisions. Accordingly, the Committee substantially maintained our prior executive compensation policies for 2016. The Committee will continue to review stockholder votes on our executive compensation and determine whether to make any changes to the program as a result of these votes.

Role of Independent Compensation Consultant

As previously discussed, for 2015 the Committee retained Meridian Compensation Partners, LLC (“Meridian” or the “Consultant”) as its independent consultant, which provided information and objective advice regarding NEO and Director compensation. The Committee retained Meridian, because of its extensive experience and familiarity with our NEO compensation program and the compensation programs of our Peer Group and sector. Importantly, the Committee makes all of the decisionsExchange Agreement with respect to our executive compensation, and as such, in setting compensation for our NEOs, considers the Consultant’s advice as only one factor among many other factors discussed within this CD&A. Other factors include our overall performance, individual NEO’s performance, experience, skills and tenure with Callon, industry trends and similar factors.

The Committee did not direct Meridian to perform its services in any particular manner or under any particular method. The Committee hasrights granted by the final authority to hire and terminate the Consultant,Company set forth herein. This Agreement and the Committee evaluatesExchange Agreement supersede all prior agreements and understandings between the Consultant annually. Meridian provides no other services to Callon aside from its role as advisor to the Committee, and pursuant to applicable SEC and NYSE rules, the Committee has determined that no conflicts of interest exist because of Meridian’s engagement by the Committee. The Committee has retained Meridian as its Consultant on NEO and Director compensation for 2016.

From time to time, Meridian contacts our NEOs for information needed to fulfill the objectives established by the Committee, and makes reports and presentations to both the Committee and our NEOs. However, the Committee established procedures that it considers adequate to ensure that the Consultant’s advice to the Committee remains objective and is not influenced by our NEOs or other management.

The Committee considered the advice of the Consultant as only one factor in setting compensation of our NEOs, as actual compensation decisions are the result of the Committee’s subjective analysis of a number of factors. To help ensure that our NEO compensation programs are competitive and consistent with our compensation philosophy, the Consultant assisted the Committee with the following:

·

consult on executive compensation matters to align the Committee’s actions with stockholder interests, our business strategy and pay philosophy, prevailing market practices and relevant legal and regulatory requirements;

·

identify and assess potential peer groups against which to compare;

·

provide, as needed, input into the design and level of outside Director compensation and executive compensation;

·

provide comprehensive, competitive market data to consider in determining executive base salary and short- and long-term incentive plans and awards;

·

review and provide feedback on the compensation-related disclosures in this Proxy Statement; and

·

inform the Committee about marketplace compensation trends in the industry, best practices and generally other developments affecting executive compensation.

Compensation Assessment

In order to attract, motivate and retain talented executive officers, the Committee must ensure that our executive compensation program remains competitive with the types and ranges of compensation paid by our peer companies who compete for the same executive talent. On an annual basis, the Committee reviews and discusses compensation data for

36


our CEO and other NEOs as compared with compensation data for similarly situated executive officers at peer companies selected by the Consultant and approved by the Committee.

The Committee engages Meridian to conduct annual assessments of our industry peer group (“Peer Group”)  in order to ensure each peer remains appropriate year-over-year. Meridian provides the Committee with market data from a group of peer companies in the independent E&P industry based on multiple metrics, such as operational and capital investment profiles, including enterprise value, market cap, asset size, and revenues. Our 2015 Peer Group consists of public companies with operational similarity in terms of size, scope and nature of business operations, and competitors, including geographic footprint and operational focus, particularly in the Permian Basin, with some larger and some smaller in size and scope, comparability of asset portfolio and availability of compensation data. The Committee believes this Peer Group provides a reasonable point of reference for comparing the compensation of our NEOs to others holding similar positions and having similar responsibilities.

The Committee does not target a specific percentile of the Peer Group, as the market data is just one of many factors considered by the Committee in determining compensation. The Committee and Meridian review the Peer Group each year and make changes based on changes in the Peer Group companies’ and our assets and operations in order to ensure the continued relevance to the market data and that the Peer Group provides the most appropriate comparison to the Company as part of the Committee’s competitiveness evaluation. The Committee considers Peer Group data relevant to, but not determinative of, the Committee’s consideration of overall executive compensation matters.

For the 2015 compensation decisions, the Committee’s selected Peer Group included the 12 companies listed below:

2015 Peer Group

Abraxas Petroleum Corp.

Approach Resources Inc.

Diamondback Energy Inc.

Gastar Exploration LTD

Goodrich Petroleum Corp.

Matador Resources Co

PDC Energy Inc.

Penn Virginia Corp.

Petroquest Energy Inc.

Resolute Energy Corp.

Rex Energy Corp.

Triangle Petroleum Corp.

The Committee also uses other proprietary benchmarking surveys from a broader sample of comparably sized oil and gas companies for additional market perspective, including:  

·

Meridian’s 2015 Oil & Gas E&P Survey (“Meridian Survey”), which outlines data from similarly sized E&P companies; and

·

Survey data provided by Effective Compensation, Inc. (“ECI”), which provides data for over 300 jobs found in E&P firms in the United States.

The Committee understands the inherent limitations in using any peer group or data set, including fluctuations in survey participation from year to year and competition for executive talent by companies potentially much larger than Callon. Accordingly, the Committee does not consider data collected from any of these sources to be prescriptive. Rather, the Committee relies upon this and similar data as reference points around which to make informed decisions about the appropriate level and form of compensation for each NEO.

37


Risk Assessment Related to our Compensation Structure

The Committee believes our compensation plans are appropriately structured to encourage long-term value creation and are not reasonable likely to have a material adverse effect on the Company. The Committee, with assistance of the Consultant, reviewed the elements of executive compensation during 2015 to determine whether any portion of executive compensation encouraged excessive risk taking. Our management conducted a similar risk assessmentparties with respect to other employees. Upon evaluation of those assessments,such subject matter, including the Committee and management concluded that our compensation policies and practices for the NEOs and other employees do not present risks that are reasonable likely to have a material adverse effectExisting Registration Rights Agreement which shall terminate upon on the Company. The Committee’s risk review identified the following risk mitigating features designed into our executive compensation program:

·

A balance of short-termexecution hereof, and long-term programs to focus management on both elements of Callon’s performance;

·

Annual long-term equity and equity-based incentives designed to be the largest component of each NEOs compensation package, with typical vesting periods of three years that are based on the value of our common stock and not on any particular metric that could encourage risk-taking;

·

The use by the Committee of its discretion to assess annual performance in the bonus plan;

·

Performance targets measured at the corporate level, rather than at the individual or business unit level;

·

Committee discretion to decrease bonus payouts if it believed management exercised excessive risk taking;

·

Reasonable change-in-control severance protections; and

·

Significant executive stock ownership requirements.

Executive Compensation Components and Philosophy

The Committee designs our compensation program to maintain a balance between rewarding the achievement of short-term or annual results and Callon’s long-term growth and success, thereby aligning our NEOs’ interests with those of our stockholders. Our executive compensation program is designed to do the following:

·

Emphasize pay for performance, in which Company and individual performance substantially influence an NEOs total compensation opportunity;

·

Attract and retain a highly qualified and motivated management team by offering industry competitive opportunities;

·

Hold NEOs accountable and appropriately reward them for their contributions to the achievement of our key short-term and long-term strategic objectives through the use of variable compensation; and

·

Align the compensation of our NEOs with the long-term interests of our stockholders by adjusting our compensation programs to be more weighted toward at-risk, performance-based compensation, consisting of a goal-driven annual incentive program and total shareholder return (“TSR”) contingent equity awards.

38


The Committee believes that this approach awards and compensates our NEOs in a manner that fairly and reasonably provides incentives for the enhancement of stockholder value, for the successful implementation of our business plan, and the continuous improvement in corporate and personal performance. In order to compete in our industry, the Committee believes that our NEOs’ compensation should include the following components:

Component

Purpose

Philosophy Statement

Base Salary

Pay for expertise and experience

Reflective of individual skills, experience

Attract and retain talented executives

tenure and expertise necessary to execute

Provide compensation stability

our business strategy

Compete with comparable companies

Competitive relative to similarly-sized peers

Annual Cash Bonus

Motivate our executive officers to

Reflective of internal equity considerations

Incentive

achieve our short-term business

Goals aligned with our annual performance

objectives that drive long-term

targets

performance while providing

Modest or no reward for performance below

flexibility to respond to opportunities

expectations and potential for increased

and changing market conditions

reward for exceptional performance

Provide annual recognition of performance based on achievement of

Provide balance in compensation programs and avoid encouraging undue risk-taking

individual and corporate strategic

Competitive relative to similarly-sized peers

objectives

Promote and encourage pay-for-performance

Long-Term Equity / Equity-Based

Motivates NEOs to achieve our business objectives by tying

Ensures that realized value to the executive aligns with value delivered to stockholders

Incentives Awards

incentives to the performance of our

Recognizes and rewards share price

(60% TSR Phantom

stock over the long term

performance relative to industry peers

Units; 40% RUSs)

Match competitive practices to attract and retain employees

Provides a strong performance-based equity component

Provide a mix of equity awards that focuses the NEO on creating long-

Aligns compensation with sustained long-term value creation

term value while avoiding undue

Allows NEOs to acquire a meaningful and

risk-taking

sustained ownership stake in the Company

Other

(Retirement; Health

Provide financial security for the NEOs and their families

Helps attract and retain NEO talent and remain competitive among our peers by

Benefits;

Ensure a financial safety net

offering a comprehensive benefits package

Severance)

Provide competitive level of benefits

Provides financial security in the event of

Match competitive practices to attract and retain NEOs

various individual risks and maximizes the efficiency of tax-advantaged compensation

Ensure NEOs consider all possible

vehicles

transactions to increase stockholder value related to changes in control of

Benefits levels based on peer group practices while considering stockholder value

of the Company

Attracts and retains NEOs in a competitive and changing industry, ensures NEOs act in the best interests of the stockholders in a change in control, and settles up front any potential dispute regarding an NEOs termination

39


Determination of Each Element of Compensation

Base Salaries

We provide all of our employees, including the NEOs, with an annual base salary to compensate them for their services throughout the year. Our Committee recognizes that a substantial amount of competition exists in the oil and gas industry for attracting and retaining qualified management teams, particularly in the Permian Basin. Accordingly, the Committee evaluates our NEOs’ salaries together with other components of their compensation to ensure that the NEOs’ total compensation is competitive relative to market practices in our Peer Group or our industry in general, and is consistent with the previously discussed Committee’s compensation philosophy. However, the Committee, while being mindful that the overall mix remains competitive, designs the components of our compensation programs so that as a NEOs responsibility increases, the compensation mix is weighted more heavily toward performance-based, at-risk cash and non-cash compensation and less heavily toward base salary. 

Annually, generally in March of each year, the Committee reviews the base salary of our NEOs. Individual salary amounts reflect the Committee’s subjective analysis of a number of factors, including:

·

Individual officer’s experience, skills, contributions and tenure with Callon;

·

Changes to the individual’s position within Callon;

·

Trends in compensation practices within our Peer Group and industry; and

·

The NEO’s roles, responsibilities and expected future contribution to Callon’s success.

In addition, the Committee also considers the input and recommendations of Meridian regarding base salaries, as well as the input of the CEO when evaluating base salary for the other NEOs. Upon review of these various factors and noting that the base salary of our NEOs were generally in line with our Peer Group, the Committee decided to provide no increases to base salaries in 2015 for any of the NEOs.

Annual Cash Bonus Incentive

A core component of our NEO compensation philosophy is to tie compensation to performance by structuring a significant portion of total annual compensation as “at risk.” To motivate employees to pursue our annual business goals in a way most beneficial to our stockholders, NEOs, senior management and other non-management technical personnel have the potential to receive a significant portion of their annual cash compensation as a bonus. The Committee set 2015 annual bonus award opportunities for each NEO as a percentage of the NEO’s annual base salary, and ultimately awarded a cash bonus to the NEOs based on the achievement of specified Company performance targets and the NEO’s individual performance, as determined at the Committee’s discretion.

For 2015, the Committee made no changes to the target bonus opportunities, summarized in the table below:

NEO

Target Bonus Opportunity
(% of Base Salary)

Fred L. Callon

100%

Gary A. Newberry

90%

Joseph C. Gatto, Jr.

90%

Other NEOs

60% – 70%

The target bonus opportunity is a guideline whereby actual bonus amounts may be greater or less than such target, in the Committee’s discretion.

40


Assessing Performance

For purposes of evaluating performance, the Committee, in collaboration with management and the Consultant, annually reviews and establishes corporate goals and objectives relevant to NEO compensation, that include financial, operational and strategic performance goals. The Committee believes that these quantitative factors and performance expectations, taken together, are objective indicators of overall successful performance. At regular meetings, the Committee periodically reviews the Company’s progress toward meeting the bonus objectives for the year. The Committee prefers not to rely solely on a formulaic approach that results in automatic payouts, so the Committee retains the flexibility to exercise its discretion and take into account special or unusual factors that may have contributed to the achievement of these objectives, such as acquisitions, commodity prices, or other factors considered appropriate by the Committee at the time of the award.

The Compensation Committee then assessed management’s performance against the 2015 operational, financial and strategic goals, and noted the following:

Performance Goal

Rationale

Comments

Operate in a Safe and Environmentally Friendly Manner

Strong correlation exists between positive operational, safety and environmentally-friendly performance

Achieved an OSHA Recordable Incident Rate (ORIR), well below the reported range by other similar sized operators in the Permian Basin and below our average ORIRs reported for the past two years.

Increase Daily Production (1)

Adding production directly contributes to our cash flow and operational growth

Increased both daily and annual Permian production by 70%, from 5,649 BOE/d in 2014 (82% oil) to 9,610 BOE/d in 2015 (80% oil), and from 2,062 MBOE in 2014 to 3,508 MBOE in 2015.

Increase Proved Reserves (1)

Reserves growth positions the organization for future success with resources to develop

Grew estimated net proved reserves by 65% to 54.3 MMBOE vs. year-end 2014 of 32.8 MMBOE, for an increase of 21.4 MMBOE. Importantly, our year-end 2015 reserves were 53% PDP and replaced more than 7x our 2015 production of 3,508 MBOE.

Increase Financial Flexibility

Financial flexibility positions us to successfully execute our operating strategy and lowers our risk profile

Successfully executed two strategic equity offerings, raising over $175 million in net proceeds, funding growth and reducing leverage; achieved 20% growth in our Credit Facility borrowing base from $250MM to $300MM.

Maintain appropriate DEBT/EBITDA level

A healthy balance sheet and leverage profile are vital to future growth

Maintained DEBT/EBITDA level below 3.0x. See comments related to "Increase Financial Flexibility" goal above for factors driving this outperformance.

Reduce Lease Operating Expense (“LOE”)

Improves operating margins

Reduced LOE by 29% to $7.71/BOE vs. $10.85/BOE in 2014.

Reduce Cash G&A Expense

Improves operating margins

Reduced per-BOE Adjusted cash G&A by 41% from $7.04/BOE to $4.16/BOE in 2014 and 2015, respectively.

Reduce Drill-bit Finding & Development ("F&D") Costs

Improves operating margins

Significantly reduced F&D costs by 42% to $8.98/BOE vs. $15.51/BOE in 2014.

(1)

Successful acquisitions added daily production and proved reserve growth of approximately 530 Boe/d and 3.4 MMBOE, respectively.

In addition to performance criteria above, the Committee considers other strategic achievements and management performance in response to external conditions. For 2015, the Committee took into account the following in setting bonus compensation:

·

Management’s ability to position the Company for success during a challenging commodity pricing environment;

41


·

Management’s ability to promptly redirect our strategy to reflect the decline in oil prices, including reducing costs and capital spending and high-grading our drilling operations;

·

Management’s continued progress in building a strong technical team and promoting and enhancing communication and teamwork throughout Callon; and

·

Management’s ability to protect margins through well-managed oil and gas derivative positions.

At the Committee meeting held in March 2016, the Committee evaluated the NEOs performance against the 2015 performance criteria described above and determined that the management team executed beyond the targets and significantly exceeded expectations on most of the financial and operational goals, along with other strategic achievements as noted above, despite a challenging commodity price environment. Thus, the Committee determined actual bonus amounts paid for 2015 performance above target as follows:

Named Officer

2015 Annual Bonus ($)

Fred L. Callon

$

800,000 

Gary A. Newberry

$

600,000 

Joseph C. Gatto, Jr.

$

600,000 

Jerry A. Weant

$

225,000 

Mitzi P. Conn

$

225,000 

Annual Award of Long-term Equity and Equity-Based Incentives

The Committee believes that granting long-term equity and equity-based incentive awards are the most effective means to provide a substantial forward-looking incentive to our NEOs that emphasizes:

·

Long-term value creation by linking compensation provided to our NEOs with long-term operational success;  

·

Aligns the long-term interests of our NEOs with those of our stockholders by directly linking rewards to stockholder return; and

·

Fosters meaningful equity participation by our executive officers.

The Committee administers our long-term incentive plans, including approving award recipients, determining the total number of awards, vesting of awards and performance criteria, including TSR. The vesting period incorporated into stock-based compensation fosters a longer-term perspective necessary for executive retention, stability and continuity. For the grant of equity compensation to NEOs, the Committee will typically consider information provided by the Consultant related to the overall competitive environment associated with long-term compensation. We have no program, plan or obligation that requires us to grant equity compensation on specified dates. However, the Committee adheres to our policy of only granting stock-based compensation grants during open trading windows.

For 2015 long term incentive grants, the Committee approved a mix for our NEOs of time-based awards and performance-based awards tied to relative TSR, with a portion of each award paid in cash. The following table sets forth the number of restricted stock units, phantom units and TSR Performance Units Awarded to the NEOs in 2015:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Named Officer

 

Total Value

 


Restricted Stock Units Payable in
Common Stock (1)

 

Phantom Units Payable in Cash (2) 

 

TSR Phantom Units Payable in Stock (3)

 

TSR Phantom Units Payable in Cash (3)

Fred L. Callon

 

$

1,642,000 

 

68,000 

 

12,000 

 

60,000 

 

60,000 

Gary A. Newberry

 

 

600,000 

 

24,848 

 

4,385 

 

21,924 

 

21,924 

Joseph C. Gatto, Jr.

 

 

600,000 

 

24,848 

 

4,385 

 

21,924 

 

21,924 

Jerry A. Weant

 

 

300,000 

 

12,424 

 

2,192 

 

10,962 

 

10,962 

Mitzi P. Conn

 

 

300,000 

 

12,424 

 

2,192 

 

10,962 

 

10,962 

(1)

Amount represents restricted stock units vesting on May 14, 2018 and payable in Company common stock on the vesting date.

(2)

Amount represents phantom shares vesting on May 14, 2018 and payable in cash based on closing NYSE market price of the Common Stock on the date of vesting.

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(3)

The 2015 TSR Phantom Unit Award is payable in 50% in cash and 50% in common stock, and will vest on December 31, 2017 between 0% and 200% based on our TSR when compared to the pre-determined Peer Group.

Performance Unit Program. Under this program, the Committee determined that performance should be measured objectively rather than subjectively and should be based on relative TSR (as defined in the award agreements) over a long-term performance period. NEOs receive a combination of cash payment and common shares based on our share price and relative TSR against the Peer Group over the specified performance period. The Committee believes relative TSR is an appropriate long-term performance metric because it generally reflects all elements of a company’s performance and provides the best alignment of the interests of management and the company’s stockholders. The Committee also believes that the performance unit program provides a good balance to the restricted stock program. On the grant date, an employee is awarded a number of “TSR Performance Units.” The TSR Performance Units are eligible for vesting if the employee continues to be employed until the vesting date specified in the award agreement. When the TSR Performance Units vest, the executive is entitled to a cash payment equal to the fair market value of the “adjusted” TSR Performance Units and a related number of common shares. TSR is the change in the common stock price plus dividends using a 20-day average at the beginning and end of the performance period. The scale of payout ranges between maximum, or 200% of target, and a minimum, or 0% of target, as set forth below, to incentivize our NEOs.

The number of adjusted TSR Performance Units is calculated by comparing Callon’s TSR to the TSR of the Peer Group specified in the award agreement, according to the following schedule for awards made in May, 2015.

 

 

 

Callon’s TSR Rank among the Peer Group

 

TSR Phantom Shares Vesting
 as a Percentage of Target

1 – 2

 

200%

3

 

183%

4

 

163%

5

 

142%

6

 

121%

7

 

100%

8

 

75%

9

 

50%

10

 

25%

11 – 13

 

0%

TSR Phantom Units – Results for Performance Period Ending December 31, 2015. In May 2013, our Compensation Committee granted TSR Phantom Units to the NEOs, which vested on December 31, 2015. Under the provisions of these awards, the targeted performance shares were subject to our relative TSR performance compared with the TSR of the Peer Group specified in the award grant. As detailed in the table below, Callon ranked first relative to the 10 companies in the agreed upon Peer Group, resulting in 200% of the number of awarded TSR Phantom Units being paid in cash.

The table below summarizes the TSR Phantom Units earned by the NEOs for the 2013-2015 performance periods:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Named Officer

 

Target Payout
of TSR Units in Cash

 

Payout %
of Target

 

Actual Payout
of TSR Units in Cash

Fred L. Callon

 

 

271,091 

 

200% 

 

542,182 

Gary A. Newberry

 

 

67,773 

 

200% 

 

135,546 

Joseph C. Gatto, Jr.

 

 

67,773 

 

200% 

 

135,546 

Jerry A. Weant (1)

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

Mitzi P. Conn

 

 

27,109 

 

200% 

 

54,218 

(1)

Mr. Weant joined Callon subsequent to the 2013 Annual long-term equity and equity-based award.

43


Other Compensation

Perquisites and Other Benefits

Benefits represent a relatively small part of our overall compensation package, comprising only 2% and 4% of our CEO and the average of our other NEO’s total compensation. However, these benefits help attract and retain senior level executives, and we review these benefits annually to ensure that they are competitive with industry norms. We provide benefits to all of our employees commonly offered in the oil and gas E&P industry. These benefits consist of:

·

Group medical and dental insurance program for employees and their qualified dependents;

·

Group life insurance for employees and their spouses;

·

Accidental death and dismemberment coverage for employees;

·

Long-term disability coverage

·

Callon sponsored cafeteria plan; and a

·

401(k) employee savings and protection plan.

We pay the full costs of these benefits, including the 401(k) plan administration for all employees. Employee life insurance amounts surpassing the Internal Revenue Service maximum are treated as additional compensation to all employees. Our 401(k) contribution to each qualified participant, including the NEOs, is calculated based on 5% of the employee’s IRS eligible salary, excluding annual cash bonuses, and is paid one-half in cash and one-half in our common stock, limited to IRS regulation dollar limits. We also match employee deferral amounts, including amounts deferred by NEO, up to a maximum of 5% of IRS eligible compensation.

Each year, we purchase a certain number of hours of flight time through a fractional aircraft ownership arrangement. These hours are made available for business use to the NEOs and our other employees in connection with their business travel requirements in an effort to reduce travel time and related disruptions and to provide additional security. We believe these flight hours are a cost-effective way to increase the NEOs availability, efficiency, and productivity. The Committee disallows employees, including NEOs, from using these hours for personal use, though the Committee recognizes occasions will arise when a personal guest (including a family member) will accompany an employee on a business-related flight at no, or immaterial, incremental cost to Callon.

Our NEOs are entitled to certain benefits, or perquisites, that are not otherwise available to all of our employees. We provide the CEO, CFO and other executive officers with use of a Company automobile. We purchase the automobile and pay for all maintenance, repairs, insurance and fuel. The employee is required to recognize taxable income using the Internal Revenue Service’s annual lease value method for personal use of the vehicle. We also pay a portion of the annual premium for our CEO’s term life insurance policy, for which he is the sole beneficiary. The costs associated with these benefits for the NEOs are reported as “Other Compensation” in the Summary Compensation Table. The Committee believes these perquisites are modest yet competitive with the perquisites provided to similarly situated oil and gas industry executives, and include the value of such benefits in determining total compensation of our NEOs.

Severance Protection

We have no employment agreements with our NEOs, though we believe that providing consistent, competitive levels of severance protection to senior executives helps minimize distraction during times of uncertainty and encourage retention in these situations. To align with market practices, facilitate our ability to attract and retain executives, and ensure all NEOs are motivated to consider transactions that could increase stockholder value, we have entered into change-in-control severance compensation agreements with our NEOs, which include continued salary, benefits and accelerated vesting of equity awards. We believe that these provisions create important retention tools, and provide our NEOs with value in the event of a terminationconflict between any such agreement or agreements and this Agreement, the terms of employmentthis Agreement shall prevail.

Section 3.13    Amendment. This Agreement may be amended only by means of a written amendment signed by the Company and the Required Holders; provided, however, that no such amendment shall materially and adversely affect the rights of any Holder hereunder without the prior written consent of such Holder.
Section 3.14    No Presumption. If any claim is made by a party relating to any conflict, omission or ambiguity in this Agreement, no presumption or burden of proof or persuasion shall be implied by virtue of the fact that this Agreement was beyond management’s control. In addition,prepared by or at the Committee believesrequest of a particular party or its counsel.
Section 3.15    Obligations Limited to Parties to Agreement. Each of the parties hereto covenants, agrees and acknowledges that no Person other than the Required Holders (and its permitted transferees and assignees) and the Company shall have any obligation hereunder. No recourse under this Agreement or under any documents or instruments delivered in connection herewith or therewith shall be had against any former, current or future director, officer, employee, agent, general or limited partner, manager, member, stockholder or Affiliate of the Required Holders or any former, current or future director, officer, employee, agent, general or limited partner, manager, member, stockholder or Affiliate thereof, whether by the enforcement of any assessment or by any legal or equitable proceeding, or by virtue of any applicable Law, it is importantbeing expressly agreed and acknowledged that no personal liability whatsoever shall attach to, providebe imposed on or otherwise be incurred by any former, current or future director, officer, employee, agent, general or limited partner, manager, member, stockholder or Affiliate of the NEOs withRequired Holders or any former, current or future director, officer, employee, agent, general or limited partner, manager, member, stockholder or Affiliate thereof, as such, for any obligations of the Required Holders under this Agreement or any documents or instruments delivered in connection herewith or therewith or for any claim based on, in respect of or by reason of such obligation or its creation, except in each case for any transferee or assignee of a senseRequired Holders hereunder.
Section 3.16    Interpretation. Article and Section references are to this Agreement, unless otherwise specified. All references to instruments, documents, contracts and agreements are references to such instruments, documents, contracts and agreements as the same may be
EX A-22


amended, supplemented and otherwise modified from time to time, unless otherwise specified. The words “include,” “includes” and “including” or words of stability, bothsimilar import shall be deemed to be followed by the words “without limitation.” A term has the meaning assigned to it. Words in the midst of transactions that may create uncertainty regarding their future employmentsingular include the plural, and post-termination as they seek future employment. We believe post-termination payments allow management to focus their attention and energy on making objective business decisions that are in our best interest, without allowing personal considerations to overshadow the decision-making process. 

44


These agreements include non-competition, non-solicitation, and non-disclosure provisions. In addition, in order to protect us if the benefits are triggered, the agreements contain a “claw back” provision that will applywords in the eventplural include the NEO violatessingular. The word “or” is not exclusive. The words “herein,” “hereof” and other words of similar import refer to this Agreement as a whole and not to any of these provisions. Noneparticular Article, Section or other subdivision. References to agreements or instruments, or to statutes or regulations, are to such agreements or instruments, or statutes or regulations, as amended from time to time (or to successor statutes and regulations). Whenever any determination, consent or approval is to be made or given by the Required Holders (and its transferees or assignees) under this Agreement, such action shall be in the Required Holder’s (and its transferees or assignees) sole discretion unless otherwise specified. Unless expressly set forth or qualified otherwise (e.g., by “Business” or “trading”), all references herein to a “day” are deemed to be a reference to a calendar day.

(Signature pages follow)
EX A-23


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto execute this Agreement, effective as of the agreements includes an excise tax gross-up provision,date first above written.


CALLON PETROLEUM COMPANY

By:
Name:
Title:

Signature Page to Registration Rights Agreement


CHAMBERS INVESTMENTS, LLC


By:
Noam Lockshin
Manager

Signature Page to Registration Rights Agreement


ANNEX B
VOTING AGREEMENT

THIS VOTING AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) is made and the Committee chose not to provide guaranteed severance benefits outsideentered into as of August 3, 2021 by and among Callon Petroleum Company, a change-in-control.

Stock Ownership Policy

Delaware corporation (the “Consistent with its goal of driving long-term value creation for our stockholdersCompany”), and in order to discourage undue risk-taking, the Committee’s stock ownership guidelines require significant stock ownership by the NEOs and directors.  The Committee believes that meaningful stock ownership by our NEOs and directors is critical in aligning the NEOs interests with the interests of our stockholders. In March 2008, the Committee adopted a stock ownership policy, which applies to the CEO and the other NEOs. The provisionseach of the policy provide forundersigned stockholders listed on the investment position, computed on December 31 of each year as follows:signature page hereto (each, a “

NEO/Directors

Required Common Stock Ownership as  Multiple of Annual Base Salary / Annual Retainer

CEO

6x

Other NEOs

2x

Directors

5x

Investment position is defined as calculated value of shares owned, shares owned indirectly, equivalent shares invested inStockholder” and collectively, the NEO’s 401(k) plan, and unvested portion of time-based restricted shares. Value attributable to shares represented by both vested and unvested stock options and the value of unvested performance-based shares is excluded.

Each NEO has a period of five years from the date of adoption to attain the required investment position. If a NEO becomes subject to a greater investment position due to a promotion or an increase in salary, the NEO will be expected to attain the increased investment position within three yearsStockholders”) of the change. The Committee reservesCompany.

WHEREAS, the rightCompany has entered into an Exchange Agreement on or about August 3, 2021 (the “Exchange Agreement”), pursuant to approve an alternate stock ownership guidelinewhich the Company will issue to Chambers Investments, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Kimmeridge”), in exchange for NEOs who can demonstrate a severe hardship in meetingcertain principal amounts of the general guidelines.

In 2012, the Committee established ownership requirements for our outside directors. Each outside director is required to achieve a minimum valueCompany’s 9.00% Second Lien Senior Secured Notes due 2025 held by Kimmeridge, new shares of common stock, equal to at least five times the annual retainer within the next five years following adoptionpar value $0.01, of the policy or election as a director.

Internal Revenue Service Limitations

When establishing our compensation programs, the Committee considers the effects of relevant tax laws. Our programs are designed to comply with Section 409ACompany (the “Exchange”).

WHEREAS, each Stockholder has agreed that certain shares of the tax code, which appliesCompany’s common stock (“Company Common Stock”) owned by it shall be subject to nonqualified deferred compensation,the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, intending to be legally bound, the parties hereto hereby agree as follows:
1.    Certain Definitions. Capitalized terms that are used but not otherwise defined herein shall have the respective meanings ascribed to them in orderthe Exchange Agreement. For purposes of this Agreement, the following terms shall have the following respective meanings:
(a)    Affiliate” shall mean, with respect to prevent negative tax consequences for our NEOs. Under Section 162(m)a specified Person, any other Person, directly or indirectly Controlling or Controlled by or under direct or indirect common Control with such specified Person.
(b)    Control,” “Controlling” or “Controlled” means, as to a specified Person, the power to direct or cause the direction of the Internal Revenue Code, a limitation is placed on tax deductions of any publicly held corporation for individual compensation to certain “covered employees”management and policies of such corporation exceeding $1,000,000Person, directly or indirectly, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise.
(c)    Beneficially Own” shall have the meaning assigned to such term in any taxable year, unless the compensation is performance-based. However, the Committee, after taking into consideration changing business conditions or the executive’s individual performance and/or changes in specific job duties and responsibilities, reserves the right to use its judgment to authorize compensation payments that do not comply with the exemptions in Section 162(m) when it believes that such payments are appropriate.

Insider Trading Policy

We have an Insider Trading Policy under which all employees, including our NEOs and members of our Board, are prohibited from engaging in short-term or speculative transactions in our securities, including short sales, options and other derivatives, and from holding Company securities in a margin account or pledging securities as collateral for a loan during periodic “trading blackout” periods. When material non-public information about us may exist and may have an influence on the marketplace, a trading blackout period is placed in effect by management.

45


Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions

The Board’s Audit Committee charter provides that the Audit Committee shall review and approve all related party transactions. A transaction will be considered a “related party transaction” if the transaction would be required to be disclosed under Item 404 of Regulation S-K. In addition, our Code of Business Conduct and Ethics provides that an officer’s or a Director’s conflict of interest with Callon may only be waived if the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee approves the waiver and the full Board ratifies the waiver. As of December 31, 2015, we are not aware of any related party transactions with our executive officers that may cause a conflict of interest with us.

Recoupment Policy

We have no recoupment policy applicable to annual incentive bonuses or equity awards other than those required under Sarbanes-Oxley legislation, though the Committee continuously evaluates the need to adopt such a policy.

Compensation Committee Report

The Compensation Committee has reviewed and discussed with management the CD&A required by Item 402(b) of Regulation S-K promulgatedRule 13d-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and based on such review and discussions,any Person’s beneficial ownership of securities shall be calculated in accordance with the Committee has recommended to the Board that the CD&A be included in this proxy statement relating to the 2016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

Respectfully submitted by the Compensation Committee of the Board,

L. Richard Flury, Chairman

Larry D. McVay

Anthony J. Nocchiero

John C. Wallace

James M. Trimble

46


EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION TABLES

The following table summarizes the total compensation for 2015, 2014 and 2013 awarded to, earned by or paid to the NEOs. 

Summary Compensation Table

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name

 

Year

 

Annual Salary

 

Cash Bonus

 

Stock Awards

 

Other (7)

 

Total

 

Fred L. Callon

 

2015

 

$

525,000 

 

 

$

800,000 

(2)

 

$

1,642,000 

(3)

 

$

53,347 

 

$

3,020,347 

 

Chairman, President and

 

2014

 

 

525,000 

 

 

 

787,500 

 

 

 

1,642,000 

(4)

 

 

53,263 

 

 

3,007,763 

 

Chief Executive Officer

 

2013

 

 

525,000 

 

 

 

656,250 

 

 

 

1,641,382 

(5)

 

 

52,769 

 

 

2,875,401 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gary A. Newberry

 

2015

 

$

350,000 

 

 

$

600,000 

(2)

 

$

600,000 

(3)

 

$

40,522 

 

$

1,590,522 

 

SVP, Operations

 

2014

 

 

350,000 

 

 

 

500,000 

 

 

 

600,000 

(4)

 

 

40,524 

 

 

1,490,524 

 

 

 

2013

 

 

350,000 

 

 

 

394,000 

 

 

 

410,347 

(5)

 

 

35,448 

 

 

1,189,795 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Joseph C. Gatto, Jr.

 

2015

 

$

350,000 

(1)

 

$

600,000 

(2)

 

$

600,000 

(3)

 

$

35,281 

 

$

1,585,281 

 

SVP, Chief Financial Officer

 

2014

 

 

330,769 

(1)

 

 

500,000 

 

 

 

600,000 

(4)

 

 

33,983 

 

 

1,464,752 

 

and Treasurer

 

2013

 

 

300,000 

(1)

 

 

375,000 

 

 

 

410,347 

(5)

 

 

33,779 

 

 

1,119,126 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jerry A. Weant

 

2015

 

$

250,000 

 

 

$

225,000 

(2)

 

$

300,000 

(3)

 

$

36,661 

 

$

811,661 

 

VP, Land

 

2014

 

 

250,000 

 

 

 

200,000 

 

 

 

164,000 

(4)

 

 

34,167 

 

 

648,167 

 

 

 

2013

 

 

72,115 

 

 

 

140,000 

 

 

 

490,000 

(6)

 

 

8,180 

 

 

710,295 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mitzi P. Conn

 

2015

 

$

190,000 

 

 

$

225,000 

(2)

 

$

300,000 

(3)

 

$

30,194 

 

$

745,194 

 

Controller, Principal Accounting Officer

 

2014

 

 

180,385 

 

 

 

200,000 

 

 

 

164,000 

(4)

 

 

28,026 

 

 

572,411 

 

 

 

2013

 

 

165,000 

 

 

 

135,000 

 

 

 

164,139 

(5)

 

 

24,887 

 

 

489,026 

 

(1)

Mr. Gatto’s employment date was April 5, 2012 and his annual salary was $300,000. During March 2014, Mr. Gatto was promoted to CFO, Senior Vice President and Treasurer, which increased his annual salary to $350,000.

(2)

Cash bonus awarded in March 2016 in recognition of 2015 performance.

(3)

Represents the grant date fair value of the restricted stock units and TSR phantom shares granted to the NEOs on May 15, 2015 computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. The assumptions utilized in the calculation of these amounts are set forth in footnotes 8 and 9 to our consolidated financial statements included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 filed with the SEC on March 5, 2016.

(4)

Represents the grant date fair value of the restricted stock units and TSR phantom shares granted to the NEOs on May 14, 2014 computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. The assumptions utilized in the calculation of these amounts are set forth in footnotes 7 and 8 to our consolidated financial statements included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014 filed with the SEC on March 5, 2015.

(5)

Represents the grant date fair value of the restricted stock units and TSR phantom shares granted to the NEOs on May 15, 2013 computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. The assumptions utilized in the calculation of these amounts are set forth in footnotes 9 and 10 to our consolidated financial statements included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012 filed with the SEC on March 12, 2014.

(6)

Represents 100,000 restricted stock units awarded September 16, 2013 and are settleable in stock. Units vest one-third on each subsequent July 1st anniversary date following the award date.

(7)

See the Table of All Other Compensation and related footnotes below for reconciliation of All Other Compensation.

47


Table of All Other Compensation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name

 

Year

 

Company Contributed  Cash to 401(k)

 

Company Contributed Common Stock to 401(k) (1)

 

Company Provided Auto (2)

 

Company Paid Other (3)

 

Total

Fred L. Callon

 

2015

 

$

19,875 

 

$

6,625 

 

$

12,158 

 

$

14,689 

 

$

53,347 

 

 

2014

 

 

19,500 

 

 

6,500 

 

 

12,574 

 

 

14,689 

 

 

53,263 

 

 

2013

 

 

19,125 

 

 

6,375 

 

 

12,580 

 

 

14,689 

 

 

52,769 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gary A. Newberry

 

2015

 

 

19,875 

 

 

6,625 

 

 

14,022 

 

 

 -

 

 

40,522 

 

 

2014

 

 

19,500 

 

 

6,500 

 

 

14,524 

 

 

 -

 

 

40,524 

 

 

2013

 

 

19,125 

 

 

6,375 

 

 

9,948 

 

 

 -

 

 

35,448 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Joseph C. Gatto, Jr.

 

2015

 

 

19,875 

 

 

6,625 

 

 

8,781 

 

 

 -

 

 

35,281 

 

 

2014

 

 

19,500 

 

 

6,500 

 

 

7,983 

 

 

 -

 

 

33,983 

 

 

2013

 

 

19,125 

 

 

6,375 

 

 

8,279 

 

 

 -

 

 

33,779 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jerry A. Weant

 

2015

 

 

18,750 

 

 

6,250 

 

 

11,661 

 

 

 -

 

 

36,661 

 

 

2014

 

 

18,750 

 

 

6,250 

 

 

9,167 

 

 

 -

 

 

34,167 

 

 

2013

 

 

3,846 

 

 

1,683 

 

 

2,651 

 

 

 -

 

 

8,180 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mitzi P. Conn

 

2015

 

 

14,250 

 

 

4,750 

 

 

11,194 

 

 

 -

 

 

30,194 

 

 

2014

 

 

13,529 

 

 

4,510 

 

 

9,987 

 

 

 -

 

 

28,026 

 

 

2013

 

 

12,375 

 

 

4,125 

 

 

8,387 

 

 

 -

 

 

24,887 

(1)

Subject to IRS limits, Company contributions to each person’s 401(k) account consist of a basic contribution equal to five percent (5%) of eligible annual base salary (funded one-half in cash and one-half in equivalent-valued common stock) plus a matching amount (limited to five percent (5%) of eligible annual base salary if such employee individually contributed at least eight percent (8%) of their eligible annual base salary). The number of shares contributed is determined on a monthly basis by dividing one-half of the total basic cash contribution by the closing market price on the last trading day of the month.

(2)

Represents annual depreciation based on a three-year life, plus insurance, fuel, maintenance and repairs, pursuant to IRS Reg §1.61-21, Taxation of Fringe Benefits.

(3)

Represents premiums paid by us on a personal life insurance policy for which Mr. Callon is the sole beneficiary.

48


Grant of Plan-Based Awards During 2015

The following table presents grants of equity awards during the fiscal year ending December 31, 2015:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Estimated Future Payouts Under
Equity Incentive Plan Awards (1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name

 

Grant Date

 

Threshold

 

Target

 

Maximum

 

Other Awards (Shares or Units)

 

Grant Date Fair Value (4)

Fred L. Callon

 

05/15/2015

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

68,000 

(2)

 

$

558,280 

 

 

05/15/2015

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

12,000 

(3)

 

 

98,520 

 

 

05/15/2015

 

 -

 

120,000 

 

240,000 

 

 -

 

 

 

985,200 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gary A. Newberry

 

05/15/2015

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

24,848 

(2)

 

$

204,000 

 

 

05/15/2015

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

4,385 

(3)

 

 

36,000 

 

 

05/15/2015

 

 -

 

43,849 

 

87,698 

 

 -

 

 

 

360,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Joseph C. Gatto, Jr.

 

05/15/2015

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

24,848 

(2)

 

$

204,000 

 

 

05/15/2015

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

4,385 

(3)

 

 

36,000 

 

 

05/15/2015

 

 -

 

43,849 

 

87,698 

 

 -

 

 

 

360,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jerry A. Weant

 

05/15/2015

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

12,424 

(2)

 

$

102,000 

 

 

05/15/2015

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

2,192 

(3)

 

 

18,000 

 

 

05/15/2015

 

 -

 

21,924 

 

43,848 

 

 -

 

 

 

180,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mitzi P. Conn

 

05/15/2015

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

12,424 

(2)

 

$

102,001 

 

 

05/15/2015

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

2,192 

(3)

 

 

17,996 

 

 

05/15/2015

 

 -

 

21,924 

 

43,848 

 

 -

 

 

 

180,000 

(1)

Amount represents TSR phantom shares payable in 50% cash and 50% common stock on the vesting date, which will be adjusted between 0% and 200% based on our TSR compared with the TSR of our Peer Group. The adjusted performance-based phantom shares will vest on December 31, 2017.

(2)

Amount represents restricted stock units vesting on May 15, 2018 and will be settled in common stock.

(3)

Amount represents phantom shares vesting on May 15, 2018 and will be settled in cash based on the closing NYSE market price of the Common Stock on the vesting date.

(4)

This column shows the grant date fair value of the awards granted to the NEOs on the date indicated computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. The assumptions utilized in the calculation of these amounts are set forth in footnotes 8 and 9 to our consolidated financial statements included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 filed with the SEC on March 5, 2016. The value ultimately realized by the executive upon the actual vesting of the awards may be more or less than the grant date fair value.

Stock-Based Incentive Compensation Plans

The 2011 Plan was approved by stockholders on May 12, 2011 and amended on May 14, 2015. Awards available under the 2011 Plan include grants of stock options, stock appreciation rights or units, restricted stock, restricted stock units, phantom stock or performance shares or units. As of March 15, 2016, 2,817,021 shares remain unissued within the 2011 Plan. 

49


Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End

The following table contains information concerning all unexercised and unvested stock awards that were held as of December 31, 2015 for the NEOs:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Option Awards

 

Stock Awards

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unvested Shares or
Units of Stock

 

Equity Incentive
Plan Awards

Name

 

Number of Securities Underlying Exercisable Options

 

Option Exercise Price

 

Option Expiration Date

 

Number of Unvested shares or Units of Stock

 

Market Value of Unvested Shares or Units of
Stock (7)

 

Number of Unearned Shares, Units or Other Unvested Rights

 

Market of Payout Value of Unearned Shares, Units or Other Unvested Rights  (7)

Fred L. Callon

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

160,378 

(3)

 

$

1,337,553 

 

28,302 

(8)

 

$

236,039 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

56,052 

(4)

 

 

467,474 

 

9,892 

(9)

 

 

82,499 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

68,000 

(5)

 

 

567,120 

 

12,000 

(10)

 

 

100,080 

 

 

98,916 

(1)

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

824,959 

 

 

60,000 

(2)

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

500,400 

 

 

60,000 

(2)

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

500,400 

 

 -

 

 

 

 -

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gary A. Newberry

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

40,095 

(3)

 

$

334,392 

 

7,075 

(8)

 

$

59,006 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

20,482 

(4)

 

 

170,820 

 

3,614 

(9)

 

 

30,141 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

24,848 

(5)

 

 

207,232 

 

4,385 

(10)

 

 

36,571 

 

 

36,145 

(1)

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

301,449 

 

 

21,924 

(2)

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

182,846 

 

 

21,924 

(2)

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

182,846 

 

 -

 

 

 

 -

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Joseph C. Gatto, Jr.

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

40,095 

(3)

 

$

334,392 

 

7,075 

(8)

 

$

59,006 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

20,482 

(4)

 

 

170,820 

 

3,614 

(9)

 

 

30,141 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

24,848 

(5)

 

 

207,232 

 

4,385 

(10)

 

 

36,571 

 

 

36,145 

(1)

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

301,449 

 

 

21,924 

(2)

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

182,846 

 

 

21,924 

(2)

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

182,846 

 

 -

 

 

 

 -

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jerry A. Weant

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

33,333 

(6)

 

$

277,997 

 

 -

 

 

$

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

5,598 

(4)

 

 

46,687 

 

988 

(9)

 

 

8,240 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

12,424 

(5)

 

 

103,616 

 

2,192 

(10)

 

 

18,281 

 

 

9,880 

(1)

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

82,399 

 

 

10,962 

(2)

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

91,423 

 

 

10,962 

(2)

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

91,423 

 

 -

 

 

 

 -

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mitzi P. Conn

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

16,038 

(3)

 

$

133,757 

 

2,830 

(8)

 

$

23,602 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

5,598 

(4)

 

 

46,687 

 

988 

(9)

 

 

8,240 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

12,424 

(5)

 

 

103,616 

 

2,192 

(10)

 

 

18,281 

 

 

9,880 

(1)

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

82,399 

50


 

 

10,962 

(2)

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

91,423 

 

 

10,962 

(2)

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

 

 

91,423 

 

 -

 

 

 

 -

(1)

Amount represents performance-based phantom shares settleable in cash on the vesting date and which will be adjusted between 0% and 200% based on our TSR compared to our specified peer group. The adjusted performance-based phantom shares will vest on December 31, 2016.

(2)

Amount represents performance-based phantom shares settleable in 50% cash and 50% common stock on the vesting date and which will be adjusted between 0% and 200% based on our TSR compared to our specified peer group. The adjusted performance-based phantom shares will vest on December 31, 2017.

(3)

Represents restricted stock units awarded May 15, 2013 and are settleable in stock on the May 15, 2016 vesting date.

(4)

Represents restricted stock units awarded May 14, 2014 and are settleable in stock on the May 14, 2017 vesting date.

(5)

Represents restricted stock units awarded May 15, 20154 and are settleable in stock on the May 15, 2018 vesting date.

(6)

Represents restricted stock units awarded September 16, 2013 and are settleable in stock. Units ratably vest one-third on each July 1 beginning 2014.

(7)

Amounts calculated based on the December 31, 2015 our common stock closing price as quoted on the NYSE of $8.34 per share.

(8)

Represents phantom stock shares awarded May 15, 2013 and are settleable in cash on the May 10, 2016 vesting date.

(9)

Represents phantom stock shares awarded May 14, 2014 and are settleable in cash on the May 14, 2017 vesting date.

(10)

Represents phantom stock shares awarded May 15, 2015 and are settleable in cash on the May 14, 2018 vesting date.

Option Exercises and Stock Vested

The following table provides information about the value realized by the NEOs on option exercises, vesting of restricted stock units, phantom shares, and TSR phantom share award payouts during 2015:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercise

 

Vesting

Name

 

Number of Shares Acquired (1)

 

Value Realized $

 

Number of Shares Acquired

 

Value Realized $ (7)

Fred L. Callon

 

 

$

4,521,798 (2)

 

151,246 (4)

 

$

1,211,480 

 

 

 

 

210,718 (3)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gary A. Newberry

 

 

$

1,130,454 (2)

 

41,592 (4)

 

$

333,152 

 

 

 

 

57,949 (3)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Joseph C. Gatto, Jr.

 

 

$

1,130,454 (2)

 

17,850 (4)

 

$

142,979 

 

 

 

 

24,869 (3)

 

33,333 (5)

 

 

253,331 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jerry A. Weant

 

 

$

 

 

33,333 (6)

 

$

253,331 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mitzi P. Conn

 

__

 

$

452,178 (2)

 

23,375 (4)

 

$

187,234 

 

 

 

 

32,567 (3)

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

There were no options exercised by any NEO in 2015.

(2)

Includes the value of the vesting of performance-based phantom shares on December 31, 2015 and settled in cash. The value realized reflects the taxable value to the NEO as of the date of the vesting of performance-based phantom share awards.

(3)

Represents restricted stock units awarded May 10, 2012 and were settleable in cash on the May 10, 2015 vesting date.

(4)

Represents restricted stock awarded May 10, 2012 and were settleable in stock on the May 10, 2015 vesting date.

(5)

Represents 100,000 restricted stock units awarded April 5, 2012 and are settleable in stock. Units vest one-third on each subsequent July 1st anniversary date following the award date.

(6)

Represents 100,000 restricted stock units awarded September 16, 2013 and are settleable in stock. Units vest one-third on each subsequent July 1st anniversary date following the award date.

(7)

Represents the aggregate dollar amount realized on the date of the vesting of the restricted stock based on the market price of a share of Company stock on the NYSE on the vesting date.

51


Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change-in-Control

The following table shows the estimated gross taxable compensation payable upon termination following a change in control or upon death, disability or retirement. No amounts would be payable upon termination for other causes. The information assumes, in each case, that the officer’s termination was effective as of December 31, 2015. In presenting this disclosure, we describe amounts earned through December 31, 2015 and, in those cases where the actual amounts to be paid out can only be determined at the timeprovisions of such executive’s separation from us,Rule.

(d)    Expiration Time” shall mean the estimates are of the amounts which would be paid outearlier to the executives upon their termination.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name / Reason for Termination

 

Base Salary (3)

 

Cash Bonus (3)

 

Accelerated Stock Award Vesting (4)

 

Continued Employee Benefits (5)

 

Total

Fred L. Callon - CIC (1)

 

$

1,575,000 

 

$

2,243,750 

 

$

4,616,524 

 

$

109,620 (6)

 

$

8,544,894 

  Death, Disability or Retirement (2)

 

 

 

 

 

 

4,616,524 

 

 

 

 

 

4,616,524 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gary A. Newberry - CIC (1)

 

$

700,000 

 

$

996,000 

 

$

1,505,303 

 

$

43,710 

 

 

$

3,245,013 

  Death, Disability or Retirement (2)

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,505,303 

 

 

 

 

 

1,505,303 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Joseph C. Gatto, Jr. - CIC (1)

 

$

700,000 

 

$

983,333 

 

$

1,505,303 

 

$

58,507 

 

 

$

3,247,143 

  Death, Disability or Retirement (2)

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,505,303 

 

 

 

 

 

1,505,303 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jerry A. Weant - CIC (1)

 

$

500,000 

 

$

376,667 

 

$

720,067 

 

$

43,710 

 

 

$

1,640,444 

  Death, Disability or Retirement (2)

 

 

 

 

 

 

720,067 

 

 

 

 

 

720,067 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mitzi P. Conn - CIC (1)

 

$

380,000 

 

$

373,333 

 

$

599,429 

 

$

58,507 

 

 

$

1,411,269 

  Death, Disability or Retirement (2)

 

 

 

 

 

 

599,429 

 

 

 

 

 

599,429 

(1)

We entered into a Severance Compensation Agreement with each of the NEOs listed in the table above. See “Employment Agreements, Termination of Employment and Change‑in‑Control (“CIC”) Arrangements.”

(2)

“Disability” is generally defined as the employee’s inability to carry out the normal and usual duties of his employment on a full-time basis for an entire period of six continuous months together with the reasonable likelihood, as determined by the Board after consultation of a qualified physician, he will be unable to carry out his normal and usual duties of employment. “Retirement” is generally defined as the employee’s attainment of an age which the Board determines to be consistent with normal retirement age.

(3)

In accordance with Mr. Callon’s Severance Compensation Agreement, the computation uses a three-year multiple with respect to the severance amount relating to salary and target bonus, while a two-year multiple is used for the other NEOs. See “Employment Agreements, Termination of Employment and Change‑in‑Control Arrangements.”

(4)

The amounts are computed based on unvested stock awards at December 31, 2015 using the closing price of our common stock on the NYSE on the last trading day of 2015, at $8.34 per share.

(5)

Benefits consist of thirty-six months of employer provided family medical and dental insurance, life insurance, dependent life insurance, accidental death coverage and disability coverage for Mr. Callon and twenty-four months for the other NEOs in the table.

(6)

Mr. Callon’s amount includes an additional allotment for each of the three years representing premiums paid on a life insurance policy for which we have no have any beneficial interest.

52


Employment Agreements, Termination of Employment and Change‑in‑Control Arrangements

Employment Agreements. We do not have employment agreements with any of our executive officers.

Severance Compensation Agreements. We entered into Severance Compensation Agreements (“SCA”) with each of our NEOs. The SCA will terminate, except to the extent that any obligation of Callon thereunder remains unpaid as of such time, upon the earliestoccur of (i) December 31, 2016, provided, however, that, on each anniversarysuch date thereafter,and time as the expiration date shall automatically be extended for one additional year unless, immediately prior to such anniversary date, either partyExchange Agreement shall have given written notice that it does not wish to extend this SCA, butbeen terminated in no event shall the expiration date be earlier than the second anniversary of the effective date of a change of control; (ii) the termination of the NEOs employmentaccordance with Callon based on death, disability (as defined in the SCA), or cause (as defined in the SCA); and (iii) the voluntary resignation of the NEOs for any reason other than good reason (as defined in the SCA).

Pursuant to the SCA, if the executive incurs a “separation from service” from Callon (as such term is defined in final Treasury Regulations issued under Code Section 409A and other authoritative guidance issued thereunder) without cause by Callon or for good reason by him within two years following a change of control of Callon (or in certain cases, prior to a change of control), then the executive is entitled to a single lump-sum cash payment (payable on the date that is six months following the triggering event) in an amount equal to three times the sum (with respect to Mr. Callon) of (i) the annual base salary in effect immediately prior to the change of control or, if higher, in effect immediately prior to the separation from service,its terms, and (ii) the greaterExchange.

B-1


(e)    Person” shall mean any individual, corporation, limited liability company, general or limited partnership, business trust, unincorporated association or other business organization or entity, or any governmental body or authority.
(f)    Shares” shall mean any and all voting securities of the average bonus earnedCompany beneficially owned (however held or titled, and including joint ownership) by the Stockholder as of the record date (whether now owned or hereafter acquired) for every meeting of stockholders of the Company called with respect to the three most recently completed full fiscal yearsProposal (as defined below), and every postponement or the target bonus for the fiscal yearadjournment thereof.
(g)    Transfer. A Person shall be deemed to have effected a “Transfer” of a security if such person directly or indirectly (i) sells, pledges, encumbers, grants an option with respect to, transfers or disposes of such security or any interest in which the change of control occurs, based on a forecast that has been approved by the Board of the results for the fiscal year in which the change of control occurs. For the other NEOs, the salary and bonus multiple is two times. In addition, we must maintain at our expense until thirty-six months after a separation from service all life, disability, medical, dental, accident, and health insurance coverage for Mr. Callon. For the other NEOs, the continued benefit period is twenty-four months. If the executive’s employment is terminated because of his deathsuch security, or disability, we are only required to make such payments if the termination occurred within six months after a change of control. “Good reason” is generally defined in the SCA as a change in the executive’s compensation, benefits, position, responsibilities, or location. A change of control is generally defined in the SCA as (i) any person or group of persons acting in concert shall have become the beneficial owner of more than 50% of our outstanding common stock; (ii) our stockholders shall cause a change in the majority of the members of the Board within a twelve-month period; or (iii) we or our stockholders shall enterenters into an agreement or commitment providing for the sale of, pledge of, encumbrance of, grant of an option with respect to, disposetransfer of or disposition of such security or any interest therein.
2.    Voting Restrictions. Each Stockholder hereby agrees that, other than pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, at all times during the period commencing with the execution and delivery of the Exchange Agreement and continuing until the Expiration Time, each Stockholder shall not, directly or substantiallyindirectly, grant any proxies or enter into any voting trust or other agreement or arrangement that would transfer, limit or otherwise affect the rights of the Stockholder with respect to the voting of any Shares in respect of the Proposal (as defined below).
3.    Agreement to Vote Shares. Each Stockholder hereby, each separately, agrees with the Company that, at all times during the period commencing with the execution and delivery of the Exchange Agreement and continuing until the Expiration Time, the Stockholder shall (a) when a meeting of the stockholders of the Company is called to present the Exchange for a vote of the stockholders (whether or not an adjourned or postponed meeting), appear at such meeting or otherwise cause any shares of Company Common Stock Beneficially Owned by such Stockholder to be counted as present thereat for the purpose of establishing a quorum and (b) with respect to any meeting at which a vote of the Company’s stockholders is requested, vote, or cause to be voted at such meeting, all shares of Company Common Stock Beneficially Owned by such Stockholder or any of its Affiliates (including by proxy or written consent, if applicable) (i) in favor of any proposal (the “Proposal”) to approve the Exchange and in favor of any other matter presented or proposed that is related to the Exchange in accordance with the terms and conditions set forth in the Exchange Agreement, (ii) against any other proposal, transaction, agreement or other action inconsistent with or made in opposition to approval of the Exchange and (iii) in favor of any proposal to adjourn or postpone such stockholder meeting to a later date if there are not sufficient votes to approve the Exchange. Prior to the Expiration Time, each Stockholder shall not enter into any agreement or understanding with any person to vote or give instructions in any manner inconsistent with the terms of this Agreement. The provisions of this Section 3 shall apply to all Shares owned as of the record date for the vote on the Proposal (the
B-2


Record Date”), regardless of whether a Transfer of some or all of our assetssuch Shares occurs after the Record Date.
4.    Irrevocable Proxy. Each Stockholder hereby, each separately, appoints the Company and any designee of the Company (determined in the Company’s sole discretion) as its proxy and attorney-in-fact (with full power of substitution), for and in the name, place and stead of such Stockholder, to vote or outstanding capital stock.

cause to be voted (including by proxy or written consent, if applicable) its shares of Company Common Stock to approve the Exchange at any such meeting of the Company’s stockholders in accordance with Section 3 hereof. This proxy is given to secure the performance of the duties of each Stockholder under this Agreement. Each Stockholder shall take such further action or execute such other instruments as may be necessary to effectuate the intent of this proxy. The SCAs also provide that, upon a changeproxy and power of control, all stock optionsattorney granted pursuant to Section 4 by each Stockholder shall automatically become fully exercisablebe irrevocable during the term of this Agreement, shall be deemed to be coupled with an interest sufficient in law to support an irrevocable proxy and shall revoke any and all performance shares, restricted stock, stock appreciationprior proxies granted by such Stockholder. The power of attorney granted by each Stockholder herein is a durable power of attorney and shall survive the bankruptcy, death or incapacity of such Stockholder. The proxy and power of attorney granted hereunder shall terminate upon the termination of this Agreement.

5.    Representations and Warranties of the Stockholders. Each Stockholder hereby represents and warrants, severally and not jointly, to the Company that this Agreement has been duly and validly executed and delivered by such Stockholder and (assuming due authorization, execution and delivery of this Agreement by the Company) constitutes the valid and binding obligation of such Stockholder, enforceable against such Stockholder in accordance with its terms, except as enforcement may be limited by general principles of equity whether applied in a court of law or a court of equity and by bankruptcy, insolvency and similar laws affecting creditors’ rights and other similar rights heldremedies generally.
6.    Termination. This Agreement shall terminate and be of no further force or effect whatsoever upon the Expiration Time without any action on the part of any party hereto.
7.    Miscellaneous.
(a)    Waiver. No waiver by the executiveany party hereto of any condition or any breach of any term or provision set forth in this Agreement shall become fully vested, provided, however, that such accelerationbe effective unless in writing and signed by each party hereto. The waiver of vestinga condition or any breach of any term or provision of this Agreement shall not occur if it wouldoperate as, or be an impermissible acceleration under Section 409Aconstrued to be, a waiver of any other previous or subsequent breach of any term or provision of this Agreement.
(b)    Severability. In the event that any term, provision, covenant or restriction set forth in this Agreement, or the application of any such term, provision, covenant or restriction to any person, entity or set of circumstances, shall be determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, unlawful, void or unenforceable to any extent, the remainder of the Code.terms, provisions, covenants and restrictions set forth in this Agreement, and the application of such terms, provisions, covenants and restrictions to persons, entities or circumstances other than those as to which it is determined to be invalid,
B-3


unlawful, void or unenforceable, shall remain in full force and effect, shall not be impaired, invalidated or otherwise affected and shall continue to be valid and enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law.
(c)    Binding Effect; Assignment. This Agreement and all of the terms and provisions hereof shall be binding upon, and inure to the benefit of, the parties hereto and their respective successors and permitted assigns, but, except as otherwise specifically provided herein, neither this Agreement nor any of the rights, interests or obligations of the Stockholders may be assigned to any other Person without the prior written consent of the Company.
(d)    Amendments. This Agreement may not be modified, amended, altered or supplemented, except upon the execution and delivery of a written agreement executed by each of the parties hereto; provided that any amendment to an agreement between a specific party and the Company contained herein shall only require the consent of such parties and not all parties hereto.
(e)    Specific Performance; Injunctive Relief. Each of the parties hereto hereby acknowledge that (i) the representations, warranties, covenants and restrictions set forth in this Agreement are necessary, fundamental and required for the protection of the Company and to preserve for the Company the benefits of the Exchange, (ii) such covenants relate to matters which are of a special, unique, and extraordinary character that gives each such representation, warranty, covenant and restriction a special, unique, and extraordinary value, and (iii) a breach of any such representation, warranty, covenant or restriction, or any other term or provision of this Agreement, will result in irreparable harm and damages to the Company which cannot be adequately compensated by a monetary award. Accordingly, the Company and each Stockholder hereby expressly agree that in addition to all other remedies available at law or in equity, the Company shall be entitled to the immediate remedy of specific performance, a temporary and/or permanent restraining order, preliminary injunction, or such other form of injunctive or equitable relief as may be used by any court of competent jurisdiction to restrain or enjoin any of the parties hereto from breaching any representations, warranties, covenants or restrictions set forth in this Agreement, or to specifically enforce the terms and provisions hereof.
(f)    Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed, interpreted and enforced in accordance with the internal laws of the State of Delaware without giving effect to any choice or conflict of law provision, rule or principle (whether of the State of Delaware or any other jurisdiction) that would cause the application of the laws of any jurisdiction other than the State of Delaware.
(g)    Entire Agreement. This Agreement and the other agreements referred to in this Agreement set forth the entire agreement and understanding of the Company and the Stockholders with respect to the subject matter hereof and thereof, and supersede all prior discussions, agreements and understandings between the Company and the Stockholders, both oral and written, with respect to the subject matter hereof and thereof.
B-4


(h)    Notices. All notices and other communications pursuant to this Agreement shall be in writing and deemed to be sufficient if contained in a written instrument and shall be deemed given if delivered personally, telecopied, sent by nationally-recognized overnight courier or mailed by registered or certified mail (return receipt requested), postage prepaid, to the respective parties at the following address (or at such other address for a party as shall be specified by like notice):
(i) If we cannot provide for acceleration of vesting asto the Company, to:
Callon Petroleum Company
One Briarlake Plaza
2000 W. Sam Houston Parkway S., Suite 2000
Houston, Texas
Attention:Michol Ecklund, Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary
Email:mecklund@callon.com
legal@callon.com

with a result of provisions in existence priorcopy to, which shall not constitute notice to the Company:
Kirkland & Ellis LLP
609 Main St
Houston, TX 77002
Attention:Sean T. Wheeler
Michael W. Rigdon
Email:sean.wheeler@kirkland.com
michael.rigdon@kirkland.com
(ii) If to a change of control, any plan or agreement, or Section 409A, we mustStockholder, such holder shall provide in lieu thereof a lump-sum cash payment equalseparately to the total valueCompany.
(i)    Headings. The section headings set forth in this Agreement are for convenience of reference only and shall not affect the outstandingconstruction or interpretation of this Agreement in any manner.
(j)    Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in two (2) or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and unvested stock rightsthe same instrument. Counterparts may be delivered via facsimile, electronic mail (including pdf or any electronic signature complying with the U.S. federal ESIGN Act of 2000, e.g., www.docusign.com) or other transmission method and any counterpart so delivered shall be deemed to have been duly and validly delivered and be valid and effective for all purposes.
[Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank]
B-5


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned have caused this Agreement to be validly executed by a duly authorized officer thereof as of the date of separation from service.

The SCAs incorporate a provisionfirst above written.


CALLON PETROLEUM COMPANY
By:
Name:
Title:
[Voting Agreement]


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned have caused this Agreement to provide for the possible impactbe validly executed as of the federal excise tax on excess parachute payments. The so-called “golden parachute” tax rules subject “excess parachute payments” to a dual penalty: the imposition of a 20 percent excise tax upon the recipient and non-deductibility of such payments by the paying corporation. While the excise tax is seemingly evenhanded, the excise tax can discriminate against long-serving employees in favor of new hires, against individuals who do not exercise stock options in favor of those who do and against those who elect to defer compensation in favor of those who do not. For these reasons, we believe that the “net-best” provision included in the SCA is appropriate. If any payment is subject to any excise tax under Section 4999 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, the payment will be reduced so that no portion of the payment is subject to such excise tax if the net benefit payable would be at least as much as it would have been if no reduction was made.

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date first above written.

Director Compensation

The compensation of our non-employee Directors is reviewed annually by the Compensation Committee and is approved by the Board. We use a combination of cash and stock-based incentive compensation to attract and retain qualified candidates to serve on our Board. In determining Director compensation, we consider the significant amount of time the Directors spend fulfilling their duties, as well as the competitive market for skilled directors. In 2015, the Compensation Committee directly engaged Meridian to review executive compensation and to conduct an annual review of the total compensation of our non-employee Directors. Specifically, Meridian evaluated retainer fees, potential meeting fees and stock-based long-term incentives using total compensation paid to the directors of our Peer Group used in determining 2015 executive compensation. Based on this review, no changes were made to our Directors’ compensation for 2015.

Each non-employee Director receives compensation consisting of only an annual retainer of $40,000 per year, with an additional $20,000 per year for the chairman of the Audit Committee, an additional $15,000 per year to the chairman of the Compensation Committee, an additional $10,000 per year to the chairman of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, and an additional $10,000 to the chairman of the Strategic Planning and Reserves Committee. Each non-employee Director is reimbursed for reasonable out-of-pocket costs incurred to attend Board meetings. In addition to cash compensation, we also grant to our non-employee directors restricted common shares under our stock-based compensation plan. These grants are, in part, to compensate our directors for the strict regulatory role in which they have to operate and to provide them with incentives to remain as a director by offering them a long-term stake in our potential future value. During 2015, the Compensation Committee awarded shares of restricted stock with equivalent value equal to $125,000 each to Messrs. Flury, McVay, Wallace, Nocchiero, Bob, Trimble and Finch. The restricted stock will vest ratably over three years or the Compensation Committee may determine in its sole discretion that the restricted stock shall vest on a “qualified separation from service.” Members of our Board who are also officers or employees of us do not receive compensation for their services as Directors. The table below indicates the total compensation earned and paid during 2015 for each non-employee Director: 

Non-Employee Director Compensation for 2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name

 

Fees Earned or Paid in Cash (1)

 

Stock Awards (6)

 

Option Awards

 

All Other Compensation

 

Total

L. Richard Flury

 

$

55,000 

(2)

 

$

125,000 

(7)

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Larry D. McVay

 

 

50,000 

(3)

 

 

125,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

175,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

John C. Wallace

 

 

60,000 

(4)

 

 

125,000 

(7)

 

 

 

 

 

 

60,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Anthony J. Nocchiero

 

 

50,000 

(5)

 

 

125,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

175,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Matthew R. Bob

 

 

40,000 

 

 

 

125,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

165,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

James M. Trimble

 

 

40,000 

 

 

 

125,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

165,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Michael L. Finch

 

 

40,000 

 

 

 

125,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

165,000 

(1)

Does not include reimbursement of expenses associated with attending the Board meetings.

Joseph C. Gatto, Jr.S. P. Johnson IV
Jeffrey S. BalmerLarry D. McVay
Kevin HaggardAnthony J. Nocchiero
Michol L. EcklundJames M. Trimble
Gregory F. ConawaySteven A.Webster
Frances Aldrich Sevilla-Sacasa
Matthew R. Bob
Barbara J. Faulkenberry
Michael L. Finch
L. Richard Flury

(2)

Represents annual retainer of $40,000 and an additional $15,000 for acting as chairman of the Compensation Committee. Mr. Flury elected to have his annual retainer deferred pursuant to the terms of a Deferred Compensation Plan for non-employee Directors, under which participants may elect to convert the cash fees to phantom shares and defer the receipt of the proceeds in cash until separation of service as a Director.

[Voting Agreement]

(3)

Represents annual retainer of $40,000 and an additional $10,000 for acting as chairman of the Strategic Planning and Reserves Committee.

(4)

Represents annual retainer of $40,000 and an additional $20,000 per year for acting as chairman of the Audit Committee.

(5)

Represents annual retainer of $40,000 and an additional $10,000 for acting as chairman of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee.

54


(6)

Amounts calculated utilizing the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 718. See notes 7 and 8 of the consolidated financial statements in our Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2015 regarding assumptions underlying valuation of equity awards.

(7)

Represents a Director who elected to have his restricted stock award deferred pursuant to the terms of a Deferred Compensation Plan for non-employee Directors, under which participants may elect to defer the receipt of the proceeds in cash until separation of service as a Director.

STOCKHOLDERS’ PROPOSALS AND DIRECTOR NOMINATIONS

FOR THE 2016 ANNUAL MEETING

Stockholders who desire to present proposals at the 2017 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and to have such proposals included in our proxy materials, must submit their proposals to us at our principal executive offices not later than December 5, 2016. If the date of the 2017 Annual Meeting of Stockholders is changed by more than 30 days from the date of the 2016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, the deadline for submitting proposals is a reasonable time before we begin to print and mail our proxy materials for our 2017 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

If the date of the 2017 Annual Meeting of Stockholders is advanced or delayed by more than 30 calendar days from the date of the 2016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, we shall, in a timely manner, inform our stockholders of such change, by including a notice, under Item 5, in our earliest possible quarterly report on Form 10-Q. The notice will include the new deadline for submitting proposals to be included in our proxy statement and the new date for determining whether we may exercise discretionary voting authority because we have not received timely notice of a matter.

In order to avoid controversy as to the date on which we receive any such proposal, we suggest that stockholders submit their proposals by certified mail, return receipt requested, or other means that permit them to prove the date of delivery. We reserve the right to reject, rule out of order or take other appropriate action with respect to any proposal that does not comply with the requirements described above or other applicable requirements.

Our Certificate of Incorporation requires that any person intending to nominate a person to serve as a Director of Callon must provide notice to us of the intent to nominate at least 120 days prior to the scheduled date of the 2017 annual meeting.

55


HOUSEHOLDING INFORMATION

The SEC permits companies and intermediaries (such as brokers and banks) to satisfy 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 and annual report to those stockholders. This process, which is commonly referred to as “householding,” is intended to reduce the volume of duplicate information stockholders receive and reduce expenses for companies. Both we and some of our intermediaries may be householding our proxy materials and annual report. Once you have received notice from your broker or another intermediary that they will be householding materials sent to your address, householding will continue until you are notified otherwise or until you revoke your consent. Should you wish to receive separate copies of our Annual Report and proxy statement in the future, we will promptly deliver a separate copy of each of these documents to you if you send a written request to us at our address appearing on the cover of this proxy statement, to the attention of the Corporate Secretary. If you hold your shares through an intermediary that is householding and you want to receive separate copies of our Annual Report and proxy statement in the future, you should contact your bank, broker or other nominee record holder.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND OTHER AVAILABLE DOCUMENTS

Financial statements for our most recent fiscal year are contained in the 2015 Annual Report to Stockholders and our Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015 filed with the SEC on March 2, 2016. Our Annual Report, our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Corporate Governance Guidelines, Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, and Charters of Board Committees may be accessed by stockholders on our website at www.callon.com or printed copies are available upon written request to the B.F. Weatherly, Corporate Secretary at our principal offices in Natchez, Mississippi.

OTHER BUSINESS

The Board is not aware of any matter to be acted upon at the 2016 Annual Meeting other than those described above. If other business properly comes before the 2016 Annual Meeting, the persons named on the proxy will vote the proxy in accordance with what they consider to be in the best interests of us and our stockholders. Please sign, date, and return your proxy promptly to avoid unnecessary expense. All stockholders are urged, regardless of the number of shares owned, to participate in the 2016 Annual Meeting by voting their shares.

By Order of the Board of Directors

Picture 1

Fred L. Callon

Natchez, Mississippi Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer

April 1, 2016

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Picture 8

57


Picture 9

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