Exhibit 10.17
Release Agreement
I, Zain Kassam, understand and agree completely to the terms set forth in this Release Agreement (the “Release”) and in the Amended and Restated Executive Employment Agreement (the “Employment Agreement”) dated March 12, 2021, by and between Finch Therapeutics Group, Inc. (“Company”) and me, as a result of my voluntary resignation without Good Reason effective on November 5, 2021 (the “Termination Date”). I understand that I am not entitled to any payments set forth in Section 1 below if I do not sign this Release and return it to Company pursuant to the terms set forth herein. Capitalized terms used but not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to such terms in the Employment Agreement.
Nothing in this Release shall prevent me from enforcing my rights, if any (i) to my non-forfeitable accrued benefits (within the meaning of Sections 203 and 204 of ERISA) under any tax-qualified retirement plan maintained by the Company, (ii) to receive continuation coverage pursuant to COBRA, (iii) to indemnification conferred upon me as an officer of the Company pursuant to the Company’s governing documents, under any applicable insurance policies or in accordance with applicable law or (iv) that cannot be waived under applicable law. Further, nothing in this Release affects my rights to provide information to, participate in an investigation by or file an administrative charge or complaint with any Governmental Authorities (defined below), including, but not limited to, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or similar administrative agency. However, I agree not to accept any monetary relief or recovery from any charge or complaint filed against any Releasee with any such administrative agency except where authorized by applicable law.
Also, Releasor does not release any Claims against Releasee that may arise after this Release has become effective.
Dated: This 4th day of November, 2021.
/s/ Zain Kassam
Name: Zain Kassam
` /s/ Mark Smith
Finch Therapeutics Group, Inc.
By: Mark Smith
Title: CEO