SCHEDULE 14A
INFORMATION REQUIRED IN PROXY STATEMENT
SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION
Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934
Filed by the Registrant [X]
Filed by a Party other than the Registrant [ ]
Check the appropriate box:
[ ] Preliminary Proxy Statement [ ] Confidential, for Use of the
[X] Definitive Proxy Statement Commission Only (as permitted
[ ] Definitive Additional Materials by Rule 14a-6(e)(2))
[ ] Soliciting Material Pursuant to Rule
14a-11(c) or Rule 14a-12
HEADWATERS INCORPORATED
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant)
Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box):
[X] No fee required.
[ ] Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(1) and 0-11.
(1) Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies:
(2) Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies:
(3) Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed pursuant
to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (set forth the amount on which the filing fee is
calculated and state how it was determined):
(4) Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction:
(5) Total fee paid:
[ ] Fee paid previously with preliminary materials.
[ ] Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange Act
Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee was
paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration statement
number, or the Form or Schedule and the date of its filing.
(1) Amount Previously Paid:
(2) Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.:
(3) Filing Party:
(4) Date Filed:
HEADWATERS INCORPORATED
11778 S. Election Drive, Suite 210
Draper, Utah 84020
January 26, 2001
Dear Stockholder:
You are cordially invited to attend the Annual Meeting of Stockholders
of Headwaters Incorporated, which will be held on Friday, March 23, 2001, at
2:00 p.m., Mountain Standard Time, at the Country Inn & Suites, 10499 South
Jordan Gateway, South Jordan, UT 84095. In addition to the matters to be acted
upon at the meeting, which are described in the attached Notice of Annual
Meeting of Stockholders and Proxy Statement, there will be a report with respect
to the current status of Headwaters' operations and an opportunity for
stockholders to ask questions.
Whether or not you plan to attend the meeting, please complete, date,
sign and return the enclosed proxy card or voting instruction form in the
accompanying envelope as promptly as possible to ensure that your shares are
represented and voted in accordance with your wishes.
The Proxy Statement contains a more extensive discussion of each
proposal and therefore you should read the Proxy Statement carefully. After you
have read the Proxy Statement and accompanying instructions, you should execute
and return the enclosed form of proxy card or voting instructions with respect
to the proposed matters. THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS STRONGLY RECOMMENDS THAT YOU
APPROVE ALL PROPOSALS.
Only stockholders of record at the close of business on January 24,
2001 are entitled to vote at the meeting. Stockholders are cordially invited to
attend the meeting in person. However, to assure your representation at the
meeting, please complete, date and sign the enclosed proxy card and return it
promptly. If you choose, you may still vote in person at the meeting even though
you previously submitted a proxy card.
If you have any questions after reading the Proxy Statement and other
materials we have sent, please call Sharon Madden, Headwaters' Director of
Investor Relations, at 1-800-316-6214.
Sincerely,
/s/ Kirk A. Benson
Kirk A. Benson
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
THE BOARD ENCOURAGES STOCKHOLDERS TO ATTEND THE MEETING IN PERSON. WHETHER OR
NOT YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THE MEETING, YOU ARE URGED TO COMPLETE, DATE, SIGN AND
RETURN THE ENCLOSED PROXY PROMPTLY IN THE ACCOMPANYING ENVELOPE. STOCKHOLDERS
WHO ATTEND THE MEETING MAY VOTE THEIR SHARES PERSONALLY EVEN THOUGH THEY HAVE
SENT THEIR PROXIES.
HEADWATERS INCORPORATED
11778 S. Election Drive, Suite 210
Draper, Utah 84020
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NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
TO BE HELD ON FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 2001
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To the Stockholders of Headwaters Incorporated:
The 2001 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the "Meeting") of Headwaters
Incorporated, a Delaware corporation ("Headwaters"), will be held on Friday,
March 23, 2001, starting at 2:00 p.m., Mountain Standard Time, at the Country
Inn & Suites, 10499 South Jordan Gateway, South Jordan, UT 84095, for the
following purposes:
1. To elect two Class I directors of Headwaters to serve until
the 2004 annual meeting;
2. To ratify the selection by the board of Arthur Andersen LLP as
independent auditors of Headwaters for the fiscal year ending
September 30, 2001; and
3. To transact such other business as may properly come before
the Meeting and any and all adjournments or postponements
thereof.
The Board has fixed the close of business on Wednesday, January 24,
2001 as the record date for determining the stockholders entitled to notice of,
and to vote at, the Meeting. Only stockholders of record as of the record date
are entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the Meeting and any adjournments or
postponements thereof. A copy of Headwaters' Proxy Statement and a proxy card
accompany this notice. These materials will be first sent to stockholders on or
about January 31, 2001.
Stockholders are cordially invited to attend the Meeting in person.
However, to assure your representation at the Meeting, please complete, date and
sign the enclosed proxy card and return it promptly. If you choose, you may
still vote in person at the Meeting even though you previously submitted a proxy
card.
By Order of the Board of Directors,
/s/ Harlan M. Hatfield
---------------------------
Harlan M. Hatfield
Secretary
Draper, Utah
January 26, 2001
Your vote is important.
You are urged to date, sign and promptly return your proxy card so that your
shares may be voted in accordance with your wishes and that the presence of a
quorum may be assured. The prompt return of your signed proxy card, regardless
of the number of shares you hold, will aid Headwaters in avoiding the expense of
additional proxy solicitations. Giving your proxy does not affect your right to
vote in person at the meeting or your right to resubmit later dated proxy cards.
HEADWATERS INCORPORATED
11778 S. Election Drive, Suite 210
Draper, Utah 84020
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PROXY STATEMENT
Annual Meeting of Stockholders
To Be Held on Friday, March 23, 2001
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GENERAL INFORMATION
This Proxy Statement is being furnished to the stockholders of
Headwaters Incorporated ("Headwaters"), in connection with the solicitation of
proxies on behalf of the Board of Directors of Headwaters (the "Board") for use
at Headwaters' Annual Meeting of Stockholders and any and all adjournments or
continuations thereof (the "Meeting"), to be held Friday, March 23, 2001,
starting at 2:00 p.m., Mountain Standard Time, at the Country Inn & Suites,
10499 South Jordan Gateway, South Jordan, UT 84095, for the purposes set forth
in the accompanying Notice of Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the "Notice").
These materials will be first mailed to stockholders on or about January 31,
2001.
PURPOSE OF ANNUAL MEETING
At the Meeting, stockholders will be asked: (i) to elect two Class I
directors of Headwaters to serve until the 2004 annual meeting of stockholders,
or until their successors are duly elected and qualified; (ii) to ratify the
selection by the Board of Arthur Andersen LLP as independent auditors of
Headwaters for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2001; and (iii) to transact
such other business as may properly come before the Meeting or any adjournments
or postponements thereof.
Headwaters' Common Stock, $.001 par value (the "Common Stock"), will be
entitled to vote at the Meeting. If a quorum exists, action on item (ii) above
will be approved by affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the shares
of Common Stock present or represented by proxy at the Meeting and entitled to
vote on such matters. Directors are elected by a plurality of the shares of
Common Stock represented at the Meeting. The Board recommends a vote "FOR" each
of the proposals. The Board knows of no other matters which are likely to be
brought before the Meeting. If any other matters properly come before the
Meeting, however, the person named in the enclosed proxy, or his duly
constituted substitute acting at the Meeting, will be authorized to vote or
otherwise act thereon in accordance with his judgment on such matters. If the
enclosed proxy is properly executed and returned prior to voting at the Meeting,
the shares represented thereby will be voted in accordance with the instructions
marked thereon. In the absence of instructions, executed proxies will be voted
"FOR" the items listed in the Notice.
QUORUM, VOTING RIGHTS AND OTHER MATTERS
The presence, in person or by proxy, of the holders of a majority of
the Common Stock is necessary to constitute a quorum at the Meeting. Only
stockholders of record at the close of business on Wednesday, January 24, 2001
(the "Record Date"), will be entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the Meeting.
As of the Record Date, there were 22,894,473 shares of Common Stock outstanding.
Holders of Common Stock as of the Record Date are entitled to one vote for each
share held for each of the proposals.
All shares of Common Stock represented by properly executed proxies
will, unless such proxies have previously been revoked, be voted in accordance
with the instructions indicated in such proxies. If no such instructions are
indicated, such shares will be voted in favor of (i.e., "FOR") the items listed
in the Notice. Abstentions and broker non-votes will be counted as shares
present for quorum purposes and will have no effect on the outcome of the
election of directors. Broker non-votes will not affect the outcome of Proposal
2. Abstentions will have the effect of a vote against Proposal 2.
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Broker non-votes result from stockholders who own stock through a
brokerage account failing to properly instruct their broker how to vote their
shares. A broker may be allowed to vote on Proposals 1 and 2 without specific
stockholder instructions. Headwaters urges every stockholder to vote (by proxy
or in person) at the Meeting.
Any stockholder executing a proxy has the power to revoke such proxy at
any time prior to its exercise. A proxy may be revoked prior to exercise by (i)
filing with Headwaters a written revocation of the proxy, (ii) appearing at the
Meeting and casting a vote contrary to that indicated on the proxy, or (iii)
submitting a duly executed proxy bearing a later date.
The cost of preparing, printing, assembling and mailing this Proxy
Statement and other material furnished to stockholders in connection with the
solicitation of proxies will be borne by Headwaters. In addition to the mail
solicitation of proxies, officers, directors, employees and agents of Headwaters
may solicit proxies by written communication, telephone, telegraph or personal
call. Such persons are to receive no special compensation for any solicitation
activities. Headwaters will reimburse banks, brokers and other persons holding
Common Stock in their names, or those of their nominees, for their expenses in
forwarding proxy solicitation materials to beneficial owners of Common Stock.
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
The following table sets forth (i) the names of the executive officers,
(ii) their ages as of the Record Date and (iii) the capacities in which they
serve Headwaters:
Name Age Position(s) Officer Since
---- --- ----------- -------------
Kirk A. Benson 50 Chief Executive Officer 1999
and Chairman of the Board
Brent M. Cook 40 President and Director 1996
Steven G. Stewart 52 Chief Financial Officer 1998
Harlan M. Hatfield 40 Vice President, General Counsel 1998
and Secretary
See "Proposal No. 1 -- Election of Directors, Nominees for Election as
Directors" for biographical information regarding Messrs. Benson and Cook.
Steven G. Stewart was appointed Chief Financial Officer of Headwaters
in July 1998 and served as Vice President of Finance and Treasurer from April
1998 through July 1998. From October 1996 through March 1998, Mr. Stewart was a
business assurance partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (formerly Coopers &
Lybrand LLP), with primary responsibility for public companies operating in the
high technology, mining and extractive industries. From January 1994 through
September 1996, Mr. Stewart was self-employed and provided consulting and
accounting services to high technology companies, assisted in the negotiation
and establishment of strategic alliances, advised companies on alternative
valuation methods applicable to acquisition targets and negotiated
acquisition/sale transactions. Prior to 1994, Mr. Stewart was an audit partner
with Ernst & Young (formerly Arthur Young) and was the Salt Lake City office
Director of High Technology and Entrepreneurial Services. Mr. Stewart is a
Certified Public Accountant.
Harlan M. Hatfield has served as Corporate Counsel since October 1996,
as Vice President and General Counsel since July 1998, and as Secretary since
July 1999. His primary activities with Headwaters have been the development of
synthetic fuel projects, including licensing, financing, permitting,
construction, feedstocks, site selection, and other aspects of project
development. As General Counsel he oversees the legal staff and outside legal
counsel, litigation, regulatory disputes, contracts, and other legal matters.
Prior to his employment with Headwaters, he was in private practice at the
Seattle law firm of Oles, Morrison and Rinker for more than nine years where he
was a partner.
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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND RELATED INFORMATION
The following sets forth the compensation of Headwaters' Chief
Executive Officer and the other officers who were executive officers
(collectively "named executives") as of September 30, 2000 and whose total
annual salary and bonus exceeded $100,000 in fiscal 2000. The amounts shown
represent what was earned in the respective fiscal years.
SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
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Long-Term Compensation
-----------------------------------
Annual Compensation Awards Payouts
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Restricted Securities
Other Annual Stock Underlying LTIP All Other
Name and Salary Bonus Compensation Awards Options Payouts Compensation
Principal Position Year ($) ($) ($) ($) (#)(4) ($) ($)
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Kirk A. Benson (1) 2000 197,500 517,362 6,600 - 300,000 - 1,513
Chief Executive Officer 1999 80,000 - 13,142 - 250,000 - -
Brent M. Cook (2) 2000 187,500 271,615 53,120 - 150,000 - 2,835
President 1999 180,000 - 52,845 - - - -
1998 133,333 54,400 53,120 - 250,000 - -
Steven G. Stewart (3) 2000 149,907 150,035 6,600 - 100,000 - 1,413
Chief Financial Officer 1999 119,580 - 6,325 - 50,000 - -
1998 56,175 - 2,750 - 50,000 - -
Harlan M. Hatfield Vice 2000 130,500 139,688 1,925 - 75,000 - 1,428
President 1999 80,000 - - - - - -
1998 80,000 - - - 75,000 - -
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(1) Mr. Benson was appointed Chairman and CEO in April 1999. The 1999
salary for Mr. Benson is for the period April 1999 through September
1999. Prior to his appointment as CEO, Mr. Benson was not an officer or
employee of Headwaters, but served as a director for which he earned
$10,667 of director fees. These director fees, along with $2,475 of
other compensation, are included in other annual compensation for 1999
in the above table.
(2) For Mr. Cook, $46,520 of other annual compensation in each year
presented represents compensation expense from the grant of options to
purchase Common Stock which had an exercise price at grant date below
market value. Compensation is recognized during the period the stock
options vest.
(3) Mr. Stewart was employed by Headwaters in May 1998. The 1998 salary for
Mr. Stewart is for the period May 1998 through September 1998.
(4) The 1998 option grant to Mr. Cook for the purchase of 250,000 shares of
Common Stock was approved by stockholders in March 1999. All other
option grants were granted under the 1995 Stock Option Plan.
In addition to Headwaters' 1995 Stock Option Plan, in fiscal 2000, the
Board of Directors approved three employee benefit plans, the Headwaters
Incorporated 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan, the 2000 Employee Stock Purchase Plan,
and the Headwaters Incorporated Incentive Bonus Plan, all of which were
implemented in May 2000. Headwaters also provides health, dental and life
insurance coverage for its employees. The Board may recommend and adopt other
programs in the future for the benefit of officers, directors and employees.
Option Grants in Fiscal 2000
The following table sets forth certain information concerning options
to purchase Common Stock granted during fiscal 2000 to the executives named in
the Summary Compensation Table.
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OPTION GRANTS IN FISCAL 2000
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Number of % of Total
Securities Options Granted
Underlying to Employees in Exercise Expiration Grant Date Value
Name Options Granted(#) 2000 Price ($/Sh)(1) Date ($)(2)
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Kirk A. Benson 300,000 28.6% 1.50 - 5.00 June 2005 175,613
Brent M. Cook 150,000 14.3% 1.50 - 5.00 June 2005 87,806
Steven G. Stewart 100,000 9.5% 1.50 - 5.00 June 2005 58,538
Harlan M. Hatfield 75,000 7.2% 1.50 - 5.00 June 2005 43,903
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(1) The exercise prices for the options granted to each of the above
executives are $1.50 for 1/4 of the options granted, $3.00 for 1/4 of
the options granted, $4.00 for 1/4 of the options granted, and $5.00
for 1/4 of the options granted. The fair market value on the date of
grant, determined by the closing price of the Common Stock as reported
by the Nasdaq Stock Market, was $1.50 for all options.
(2) Determined using the Black-Scholes option valuation model.
Aggregated Option Exercises in Fiscal 2000 and September 30, 2000 Option Values
The following table summarizes for the named executive officers of
Headwaters the number of stock options exercised during fiscal 2000, the
aggregate dollar value realized upon exercise, the total number of unexercised
options held at September 30, 2000 and the aggregate dollar value of
in-the-money unexercised options held at September 30, 2000. Value realized upon
exercise is the difference between the fair market value of the underlying stock
on the exercise date (based upon the closing price of Common Stock as reported
by the Nasdaq Stock Market for the exercise date) and the exercise price of the
option. Options are in-the-money if the fair market value of the underlying
securities exceeds the exercise price of the option. The value of unexercised,
in-the-money options at September 30, 2000 is the aggregate amount of the
difference between their exercise price and $2.88 per share, the fair market
value of the underlying stock on September 30, 2000, based on the closing price
of the Common Stock on that date. The underlying options have not been and may
never be exercised. The actual gains, if any, on exercise will depend on the
value of the Common Stock on the actual date of exercise. There can be no
assurance that these values will be realized.
AGGREGATED OPTION EXERCISES IN FISCAL 2000 AND SEPTEMBER 30, 2000 OPTION VALUES
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shares Number of Securities Value of Unexercised
Acquired Value Underlying Unexercised In-the-Money Options at
on Exercise Realized Options at 9/30/00 (#) 9/30/00 ($)
Name (#) ($) Exercisable/Unexercisable Exercisable/Unexercisable
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kirk A. Benson 0 0 108,333 / 441,667 8,594 / 94,531
Brent M. Cook 0 0 246,833 / 290,667 160,359 / 80,266
Steven G. Stewart 0 0 49,165 / 150,835 2,864 / 31,511
Harlan M. Hatfield 0 0 82,502 / 107,498 29,649 / 23,632
Long-Term Incentive Plan ("LTIP") Awards in Fiscal 2000
Headwaters granted no LTIP awards in fiscal 2000.
Future Benefits of Pension Plan Disclosure in Fiscal 2000
Headwaters has no defined benefit pension plans.
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Stock Option Plans
1995 Stock Option Plan. Headwaters has only one stock option plan, the
1995 Stock Option Plan (the "Option Plan"), under which 2,400,000 shares of
Common Stock are reserved for ultimate issuance. A committee of Headwaters'
Board of Directors, or in its absence, the Board (the "Committee") administers
and interprets the Option Plan. This Committee is authorized to grant options
and other awards both under the terms of the Option Plan and outside the Option
Plan to eligible employees, officers, directors, and consultants of Headwaters.
The Option Plan provides for the granting of both incentive stock options and
non-statutory stock options. Terms of options granted under the Option Plan,
including vesting requirements, are determined by the Committee. Options granted
under the Option Plan vest over periods ranging from 0 to ten years, expire no
more than ten years from the date of grant and are not transferable other than
by will or by the laws of descent and distribution. Incentive stock option
grants must meet the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code and the Option
Plan.
In May 2000, the Board clarified which prior years' option grants were
granted under the Option Plan and which option grants were not granted under the
Option Plan. As of January 24, 2001, Headwaters had issued 167,335 shares of
Common Stock upon exercise of options granted under the Option Plan. Options for
the purchase of an aggregate of 1,688,200 shares of Common Stock (net of
exercises and cancellations) were outstanding under the Option Plan. Options for
an additional 544,465 shares could be granted in the future under terms of the
Option Plan. During fiscal 2000, options to purchase 1,047,200 shares of Common
Stock were granted to officers and employees, of which 625,000 were granted to
the named executives, as shown in the Summary Compensation Table. The fiscal
2000 option grants to the named executives have terms of five years, exercise
prices of $1.50 for 1/4 of the options granted, $3.00 for 1/4 of the options
granted, $4.00 for 1/4 of the options granted, and $5.00 for 1/4 of the options
granted. The fair market value on the date of grant, determined by the closing
price of the Common Stock as reported by the Nasdaq Stock Market, was $1.50 for
all options granted to the named executives. The options vest ratably over a
three-year period, beginning the month following the grant date.
Other Options. In addition to options granted under the Option Plan,
Headwaters has in prior years granted options for the purchase of Common Stock
to employees, officers, directors and consultants outside the Option Plan that
were not qualified as incentive stock options for tax purposes. There were no
such option grants during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2000.
401(k) Profit Sharing Plan
The Board of Directors approved a 401(k) profit sharing plan for the
benefit of Headwaters employees and in May 2000 the Headwaters Incorporated
401(k) Profit Sharing Plan was adopted. The 401(k) Plan is administered by a
committee of the Board of Directors and is subject to the requirements of ERISA.
The 401(k) Plan is designed to encourage the accumulation of retirement savings
by employees, and substantially all employees of Headwaters are eligible to
participate in the 401(k) Plan; non-employee directors are not eligible.
Under the terms of the 401(k) Plan, employees may elect to make
tax-deferred contributions to the 401(k) Plan of up to 15% of their
compensation, subject to statutory limitations. Headwaters may elect to match
employee contributions up to a maximum rate of 7% of employees' compensation,
which matching contributions, if made, vest over a four-year period. No net
profits are required for matching contributions by Headwaters. In December 2000,
the Board of Directors approved a matching contribution totaling $51,523, which
included $5,250 for each of the named executives.
Participation in the 401(k) Plan is voluntary and each eligible
employee makes his or her own election whether and to what extent to participate
in the 401(k) Plan. It is therefore not possible to determine the benefits or
amounts that will be received in the future by individual employees or groups of
employees, including the named executives.
2000 Employee Stock Purchase Plan
The Board approved The 2000 Employee Stock Purchase Plan ("ESPP") to
provide eligible employees with an opportunity to increase their proprietary
interest in the success of Headwaters by purchasing Common Stock in Headwaters
on favorable terms and to pay for such purchases through payroll deductions. The
Board believes that this plan is mutually beneficial to employees and Headwaters
and its stockholders because such a plan enhances the interest of employees in
the continued success of Headwaters and further aligns the interests of
employees and stockholders. In addition, the Board is of the opinion that
employee stock purchase plans provide an aid in recruiting
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qualified and talented employees. For these reasons, the Board authorized the
adoption of the ESPP. The ESPP was approved by stockholders in September 2000 at
a Special Meeting of Stockholders.
Substantially all employees of Headwaters are eligible to participate
in the ESPP; non-employee directors are not eligible. A total of 500,000 shares
of stock are reserved for issuance under the ESPP, of which 32,897 shares have
been issued through January 24, 2001. Under the ESPP, employees purchase shares
of Common Stock directly from Headwaters, which shares are made available either
from Headwaters' authorized but unissued shares or from treasury shares,
including shares repurchased on the open market. The ESPP is intended to comply
with Section 423 of the Internal Revenue Code, but is not subject to the
requirements of ERISA. Employees purchase stock through payroll deductions of
from 1% to 10% of cash compensation, subject to certain limitations. The stock
is purchased in a series of calendar-month offerings. The cost per share to the
employee is 85% of the lesser of the fair market value at the beginning of the
offering period and the end of the offering period.
Participation in the ESPP is voluntary and each eligible employee will
make his or her own election whether and to what extent to participate in the
ESPP. It is therefore not possible to determine the benefits or amounts that
will be received in the future by individual employees or groups of employees,
including the named executives.
Incentive Bonus Plan
The Incentive Bonus Plan ("Bonus Plan"), approved annually by the
Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors which is comprised only of
independent directors ("Compensation Committee"), provides for annual cash
bonuses to be paid if Headwaters accomplishes certain financial goals and if
employees meet individual goals. A participant's cash bonus is based on
Headwaters' success in exceeding specified financial performance targets
established by the Compensation Committee, the employee's base pay, and
individual performance during the year. Headwaters' financial goals are based
upon an economic value added concept ("EVA") which purports to more closely
align with a company's share price than other measurements of performance. EVA
is a concept that is founded on the assumption that "free cash flow" is the
primary driver of corporate value over time. This concept and EVA-based
compensation plans began in the early 1970s and are still used by some of the
most successful companies in the U.S.
Beginning in early fiscal 2000, Headwaters' management and the Board of
Directors initiated a comprehensive review of Headwaters' compensation program
for its executives, management personnel and all other employees. This review
consisted of a formal study by a well-known international human resources
consulting firm of current employee responsibilities and compensation as well as
a study of compensation programs used by other similarly situated public
companies. This compensation review culminated in a detailed report presented to
the Compensation Committee by the consulting firm.
The consulting firm's report recommended several changes in Headwaters'
compensation policies and programs, including changes in base salary levels and
long-term incentives such as stock option grants as well as implementation of a
bonus plan. Following the issuance of the report, the Compensation Committee
made several recommendations to the Board, which the Board subsequently adopted.
It was determined that an incentive bonus program that closely linked bonus
compensation to the creation of shareholder value as measured under the EVA
concept would be in the best interests of Headwaters and its stockholders since
EVA-based plans are purported to be one of the best indicators of actual
shareholder value creation. Accordingly, the Board adopted a formal EVA-based
incentive bonus plan in fiscal 2000. The Board determined that such a plan was
the best way to motivate Headwaters' management and employees to continuously
seek to meet and exceed performance goals.
Under the terms of the Bonus Plan, annual cash awards can be earned by
participants, consisting of all full-time employees who are employed at the end
of the fiscal year, provided Headwaters and participant goals are met or
exceeded. The amount of the cash awards is dependent on several factors, the
most important of which is the EVA multiplier, or a factor determined by how
much Headwaters' performance exceeds a financial threshold ("EVA target")
established by the Compensation Committee for each fiscal year. No awards are
earned if the EVA target is not achieved. EVA profit, which varies from
traditional accrual accounting earnings, is determined each fiscal year and is
then compared to the EVA target, which determines the EVA multiplier. EVA profit
is defined as net income, plus or minus economic adjustments, minus the cost of
capital. A portion of annual cash awards "earned" by management personnel are
banked, meaning that the awards are not actually earned unless the EVA target is
achieved in each of the two succeeding fiscal years. This banking mechanism
helps motivate management and employees to achieve long-term sustainable
shareholder value and discourages short-term performance at the expense of
long-term shareholder value creation. The bonus amounts for 2000 reflected in
the cash compensation table represent the cash
6
awards paid to the named executives for fiscal 2000, but do not include banked
amounts because these must be earned by achieving the EVA targets in fiscal 2001
and 2002.
Employment Contracts and Termination of Employment and Change in Control
Arrangements
Kirk A. Benson. Effective April 1999, Headwaters and Mr. Benson entered
into an employment agreement covering the succeeding three-year term, with a
salary of $15,000 per month until adjusted by the Board of Directors. An
adjustment was made effective July 1, 2000 to increase Mr. Benson's monthly
salary to $20,833. The employment agreement further provides for participation
in Headwaters' incentive bonus plan, if any, as in effect from time to time,
expense reimbursement, and the grant of stock options. Specifically, the
agreement provided for the grant of options for 250,000 shares of Common Stock
at an exercise price of $4.13 per share, to vest on a pro rata basis at the
beginning of each 12 month anniversary during the term of the employment
agreement, which are exercisable through April 2009, with full vesting upon
disability or death. Such grant was made in fiscal 1999. Under the agreement,
Mr. Benson is entitled to six weeks annual paid vacation, a monthly car
allowance of $550, and other benefits comparable to those generally available to
Headwaters employees. If his employment is terminated by Headwaters without
cause or terminated by Mr. Benson for good reason, he is entitled to termination
benefits equal to 100% of his then annual base salary.
Brent M. Cook. In April 1998, Headwaters and Mr. Cook entered into an
employment agreement covering the succeeding five year term, with the salary to
be established by the Board of Directors consistent with an annual compensation
review of comparable positions of public companies. Mr. Cook's current monthly
salary is $17,500. The employment agreement further provides for participation
in Headwaters' incentive bonus plan, if any, as in effect from time to time,
expense reimbursement, and the grant of stock options. Specifically, the
agreement provided for the grant of options for 250,000 shares of Common Stock
at an exercise price of $12.97 per share, to vest on a pro rata basis at the
beginning of each month during the term of the employment agreement, which are
exercisable through April 2008, with full vesting upon disability or death. Such
grant was made in fiscal 1998. Under the agreement, Mr. Cook is entitled to six
weeks annual paid vacation, a monthly car allowance of $550, an annual dental
allowance of $4,500, and other benefits comparable to those generally available
to Headwaters employees. If his employment is terminated by Headwaters without
cause or terminated by Mr. Cook for good reason, he is entitled to termination
benefits equal to 100% of his then annual base salary.
Steven G. Stewart. Effective May 1998, Headwaters and Mr. Stewart
entered into an employment agreement covering a continuous three-year period,
unless terminated by Headwaters for cause or disability, or by Mr. Stewart for
good cause or without good reason provided 90 days prior written notice is
given. Mr. Stewart's regular monthly salary will be at least $8,334 for the
period from May 1998 through September 1999 and $11,360 thereafter. Mr.
Stewart's current monthly salary is $14,500. The employment agreement further
provides for participation in Headwaters' incentive bonus plan, if any, as in
effect from time to time, and the grant of stock options. Specifically, the
agreement provided for the grant of options for 50,000 shares of Common Stock at
an exercise price of $12.63 per share, to vest on a pro rata basis over 60
months beginning May 1998, which are exercisable through April 2008, with full
vesting upon disability or death. Such grant was made in fiscal 1998. In
addition, Mr. Stewart receives a monthly car allowance of $550 and other
benefits comparable to those generally available to Headwaters employees. If his
employment is terminated by Headwaters without cause or terminated by Mr.
Stewart for good reason, he is entitled to termination benefits equal to 200% of
his then annual base salary and all outstanding options vest immediately.
Board Meetings
The Board held a total of 12 regular and special meetings during fiscal
2000. All directors attended all of the meetings.
Committees of the Board
The Board of Directors has two committees, an Audit Committee and a
Compensation Committee, both of which are comprised solely of outside directors.
The Compensation Committee consists of Mr. Weller, as chair, Mr. Hill and Mr.
Herickhoff. The Audit Committee consists of Mr. Herickhoff, as chair, Mr.
Squire, and Mr. Hill. The Audit Committee held two meetings in fiscal 2000 and
the Compensation Committee held two meetings in fiscal 2000.
7
Compensation Committee Report on Executive Compensation
The Compensation Committee reviews and makes recommendations to the
Board of Directors concerning the overall compensation for Headwaters' officers
and other key executives, including the named executives. The Committee also
oversees the granting of stock options and the payment of incentive bonuses to
all executives and employees of Headwaters. Future compensation polices will be
dependent on Headwaters' performance and cash flow and employee performance.
Headwaters seeks to compensate executives at competitive levels,
considering current compensation surveys for companies in similar industries and
development patterns, the growth of Headwaters, each executive's individual
contribution to meeting Headwaters' goals and objectives, and overall business
conditions as part of the total benefit package for employees. During fiscal
2000, Headwaters' initiated a comprehensive review of Headwaters' compensation
program for its executives, management personnel and all other employees. This
review consisted of a formal study by a well-known international human resources
consulting firm of current employee responsibilities and compensation as well as
a study of compensation programs used by other similarly situated public
companies. This compensation review culminated in a detailed report presented to
the Compensation Committee by the consulting firm. Following the issuance of the
report, the Compensation Committee made several recommendations to the Board,
which the Board subsequently adopted. These recommendations, which affected all
executives, management personnel and other employees of Headwaters, included
changes in base salary levels and long-term incentives such as stock option
grants as well as implementation of an incentive bonus plan. The incentive bonus
plan is deemed to be a significant part of the total compensation package for
the named executives.
The current employment agreement for Mr. Benson was approved by the
Board of Directors in a meeting on April 20, 1999. The Compensation Committee
recommended the fiscal 2000 cash compensation, cash bonus and grant of options
to Mr. Benson based on Mr. Benson's ability to meet Headwaters' objectives.
The Compensation Committee strives to ensure that Headwaters'
compensation plan attracts, retains and rewards both staff and management
personnel while continuing to operate in the best interests of the stockholders.
Compensation Committee
Raymond J. Weller, Chairman
John P. Hill
James A. Herickhoff
Compensation of Directors
Headwaters' directors hold office until the end of their respective
terms or until their successors have been duly elected and qualified.
Outside directors are entitled to annual cash compensation of up to
$32,000, which is paid quarterly. The outside directors are also entitled to
1,000 options for each month of service, subject to vesting limitations. The
Chairman of the Board, unless a salaried employee of Headwaters, is entitled to
cash compensation and options on the same vesting terms, but in the amount of
125% of that which may be received by the other directors. Directors receive
reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses. The cash compensation and options
described in this section do not apply to directors who are salaried employees
of Headwaters.
In December 1998, each of Headwaters' outside directors received (i)
7,000 options for the period of service from the fiscal 1998 annual
stockholders' meeting to the fiscal 1999 stockholders' meeting, subject to
vesting, and (ii) 36,000 options for the three-year period following the 1999
annual stockholders' meeting, subject to vesting, on a pro rata basis, at the
fiscal 2000, 2001 and 2002 annual stockholders' meetings. The options granted in
December 1998 have exercise prices equal to the closing price of the Common
Stock on the grant date. None of the option grants were granted under the 1995
Stock Option Plan.
Headwaters' executive officers are appointed by the Board of Directors
and serve at the discretion of the Board. The authority of the Board of
Directors over the officers of Headwaters has been delegated to the Chief
Executive Officer.
8
Audit Committee Report
The primary purposes of the audit committee are to provide oversight of
Headwaters' management in the areas of corporate governance including i) the
financial reporting system, the system of internal controls, and the outside
independent auditing process and audit results, and ii) legal and regulatory
compliance in areas where control systems must be in place to reduce financial
risk to Headwaters to acceptable levels. The audit committee meets at least
semi-annually and consists only of outside directors who have not previously
been officers of Headwaters. Each of the members of the audit committee
qualifies as independent under the current listing standards of the National
Association of Securities Dealers.
The audit committee meets periodically with management to consider the
adequacy of Headwaters internal controls and the reliability of Headwaters'
financial statements. The committee also meets privately with the independent
auditors, who have unrestricted access to the committee. The committee
recommends to the Board the appointment of the independent auditors and
periodically reviews their performance and independence from management. The
Board has adopted a written charter setting forth the mission, structure and
responsibilities of the committee. A copy of the charter is attached to this
proxy statement as Appendix A.
Management has primary responsibility for Headwaters' financial
statements and financial reporting process, including Headwaters' system of
internal controls. The independent auditors audit the annual financial
statements prepared by management, express an opinion as to whether those
financial statements fairly present the financial position, results of
operations and cash flows of Headwaters in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles and discuss with us any issues they believe should be
raised with us.
This year, we reviewed the audited financial statements and met with
both management and Arthur Andersen, Headwaters independent auditors, to discuss
those financial statements. Management has represented to us that the financial
statements were prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles. We have received from and discussed with Arthur Andersen the written
disclosure and letter required by Independence Standards Board Standard No. 1.
These items relate to that firm's independence from Headwaters. We also
discussed with Arthur Andersen the matters required to be discussed by Statement
on Auditing Standards No. 61, "Communication with Audit Committees."
Based on these reviews and discussions, we recommended to the Board
that the audited financial statements be included in Headwaters' Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2000.
Audit Committee
James A. Herickhoff, Chairman
DeLance W. Squire
John P. Hill
Audit Fees
The following table summarizes the fees paid or payable to Arthur
Andersen for services rendered for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2000.
Arthur Andersen performed review services only for the quarter ended June 30,
2000. The cost for this review was $6,500 and is included in the caption "Audit
fees" below. Reviews of the quarters ended December 31, 1999 and March 31, 2000
were performed by PricewaterhouseCoopers, who were dismissed as Headwaters'
auditors in July 2000. The cost for those reviews are not included in the table.
Audit fees $69,894
Financial systems design and implementation fees 0
All other fees 0
-----------
Total $69,894
===========
9
Stockholder Return Performance Graph
The following graph shows a comparison of the cumulative total
stockholder return, calculated on a dividend reinvestment basis, for September
30, 1995 through September 30, 2000, on Headwaters' Common Stock with (1) the
Nasdaq Composite Index--U.S., (2) the Standard & Poors Energy - 500 Index, and
(3) the Standard & Poors Chemicals (Specialty) - 500 Index. Because the sale of
chemical reagent to licensees has become a significant portion of Headwaters'
revenues and is expected to remain so in the future, the Standard & Poors
Chemicals (Specialty) - 500 Index has been added to the comparison of cumulative
total returns this year. The comparison assumes $100 was invested on September
30, 1995.
Please note that historic stock price performance shown on the graph is
not necessarily indicative of future price performance. Headwaters has not paid
dividends on its Common Stock.
[GRAPH OMITTED]
Total Returns Assume Reinvestment of Dividends
9/30/95 9/30/96 9/30/97 9/30/98 9/30/99 9/30/00
----------- ---------- ---------- ----------- ---------- -----------
Headwaters $100 $110 $123 $125 $ 33 $ 38
S&P Energy - 500 100 126 184 175 208 238
S&P Chemicals (Specialty) - 500 100 108 122 96 116 91
Nasdaq Composite (US) 100 119 163 165 270 359
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF DIRECTORS, NOMINEES
AND PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The following table sets forth certain information as of January 24,
2001 regarding the beneficial ownership of Headwaters' Common Stock, for: (i)
each person (or group of affiliated persons) who, insofar as Headwaters has been
able to ascertain, beneficially owned more than 5% of the outstanding shares of
Common Stock; (ii) each director and executive officer of Headwaters; and (iii)
all directors and executive officers of Headwaters as a group. Headwaters has
relied on information received from each stockholder as to beneficial ownership,
including information contained on Schedules 13D and Forms 3, 4 and 5. As of
January 24, 2001, there were 22,894,473 shares of Common Stock outstanding. As
of that date, there were outstanding options to purchase 3,677,300 shares of
Common Stock, outstanding warrants to purchase 724,483 shares of Common Stock,
and outstanding shares of Preferred Stock convertible into approximately 442,882
shares of Common Stock.
10
Name and Address of Amount and Nature of
Beneficial Owner (1) Beneficial Ownership(2) Percent of Class
-------------------- ----------------------- ----------------
Directors
---------
Kirk A. Benson 932,830 (3) 4.0%
Brent M. Cook 313,883 (4) 1.4%
Raymond J. Weller 436,662 (5) 1.9%
DeLance W. Squire 54,500 (6) *
James A. Herickhoff 54,500 (7) *
John P. Hill, Jr. 45,500 (8) *
Executive Officers
------------------
Steven G. Stewart 106,753 (9) *
Harlan M. Hatfield 102,502(10) *
All directors and executive 2,047,130(11) 8.6%
officers as a group (eight persons)
Quince Associates, L.P.(12) 2,010,844(13) 8.5%
555 Zang Street, Suite 300
Lakewood, CO 80228
- ------------------
* Less than 1%
(1) The address of each person named in the table is c/o Headwaters
Incorporated, 11778 S. Election Drive, Suite 210, Draper, Utah 84020.
(2) The persons named in this table have sole voting and investment power
with respect to all shares of Common Stock reflected as beneficially
owned by them. A person is deemed to be the beneficial owner of
securities that can be acquired by such person within sixty (60) days
from January 24, 2001, and the total outstanding shares used to
calculate each beneficial owner's percentage includes such shares.
Beneficial ownership as reported does not include shares subject to
option or conversion that are not exercisable within 60 days of January
24, 2001.
(3) Consists of 718,748 shares owned by Mr. Benson, warrants for 55,749
shares exercisable within 60 days of January 24, 2001, and options to
purchase 158,333 shares held by Mr. Benson exercisable within 60 days
of January 24, 2001.
(4) Consists of 13,050 shares owned by Mr. Cook and options to purchase
300,833 shares held by Mr. Cook exercisable within 60 days of January
24, 2001.
(5) Consists of 318,402 shares owned by Mr. Weller, warrants for 33,510
shares exercisable within 60 days of January 24, 2001, and options to
purchase 84,750 shares held by Mr. Weller exercisable within 60 days of
January 24, 2001.
(6) Consists of 2,500 shares owned by Mr. Squire and options to purchase
52,000 shares held by Mr. Squire exercisable within 60 days of January
24, 2001.
(7) Consists of 8,000 shares owned by Mr. Herickhoff and options to
purchase 46,500 shares held by Mr. Herickhoff exercisable within 60
days of January 24, 2001.
(8) Consists of options to purchase 45,500 shares held by Mr. Hill
exercisable within 60 days of January 24, 2001.
(9) Consists of 24,200 shares owned by Mr. Stewart, warrants for 6,720
shares exercisable within 60 days of January 24, 2001, and options to
purchase 75,833 shares held by Mr. Stewart exercisable within 60 days
of January 24, 2001.
(10) Consists of options to purchase 102,502 shares held by Mr. Hatfield
exercisable within 60 days of January 24, 2001.
(11) Consists of 1,084,900 shares issued and outstanding, and options and
warrants to purchase 962,230 shares exercisable within 60 days of
January 24, 2001.
(12) Cherokee Associates, LLC and Diamond Jay, Ltd. Co. are the holders of
the beneficial shares shown above. Quince Associates, L.P. is a limited
partnership which owns 72.5% of Cherokee Associates, LLC and 66.7% of
Diamond Jay, Ltd. Co. Evensong, LLC is the general partner and a 49%
limited partner of Quince Associates, L.P. and Vespers, LLC is a 50%
limited partner. Evensong, LLC and Vespers, LLC are owned by various
family trusts. Mr. John P. Hill, Jr., a director of Headwaters, is a
2.5% owner of Cherokee Associates, LLC.
(13) Consists of 1,185,818 shares issued and outstanding, warrants to
purchase 396,454 shares exercisable within 60 days of January 24, 2001,
and convertible preferred stock convertible into 428,572 shares.
TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PARTIES
Issuance of Common Stock and Warrants to Officers and Directors. In
April 2000, Headwaters issued approximately 379,000 shares of Common Stock and
warrants for the purchase of approximately 133,000 shares of Common Stock to
certain officers and directors for net cash proceeds of approximately $588,000.
The warrants are
11
exercisable through March 2005 at a price of $1.56 per share. Mr. Benson
purchased 159,283 shares and acquired warrants for the purchase of 55,749
shares; Mr. Weller purchased 95,744 shares and acquired warrants for the
purchase of 33,510 shares; and Mr. Stewart purchased 19,200 shares and acquired
warrants for the purchase of 6,720 shares. A former officer purchased 104,448
shares and acquired warrants for the purchase of 36,557 shares.
Modification of Terms of Warrants. During March 2000, the terms of
existing warrants for the purchase of approximately 2,750,000 shares of Common
Stock at exercise prices ranging from $3.50 to $12.00 per share were exchanged
for warrants for the purchase of approximately 620,000 shares of Common Stock
with exercise prices of $1.32 per share. Included in these numbers were warrants
held by Mr. Benson and lenders to Headwaters, including OZ Master Fund, Ltd.,
Joe K. Johnson, and Aspen Capital Resources, LLC (see below). Also, in fiscal
2000, Headwaters purchased and cancelled warrants held by OZ Master Fund, Ltd.
for the purchase of approximately 187,000 shares of common stock for cash
payments totaling approximately $330,000.
Major Financing Transaction. On March 17, 1999, Headwaters completed a
financing transaction (the "Financing") with OZ Master Fund, Ltd., an affiliate
of the Och-Ziff Capital Management Group. The Financing consisted of the
issuance of $20,000,000 face value of convertible secured debt, issued at a 50%
discount, and the issuance of 60,000 shares of cumulative convertible preferred
stock (series D) for $6,000,000, for total gross proceeds of $16,000,000.
Warrants for the purchase of Common Stock were also issued as part of the
Financing. Beginning in November 1999 and through April 2000, Headwaters issued
2,631,321 shares of Common Stock on conversion of 24,369 shares of series D
Preferred Stock. In April and May 2000, Headwaters redeemed the remaining 35,631
shares of series D Preferred Stock for payments totaling approximately
$4,454,000, including a redemption premium of approximately $891,000. In April
and May 2000, Headwaters redeemed all of the convertible secured debt for
payments totaling approximately $17,968,000, resulting in an extraordinary loss
of approximately $6,037,000.
Sale of Series C Convertible Preferred Stock. During January 1999,
Headwaters completed a financing transaction with Joe K. Johnson, a former major
stockholder and lender to Headwaters, that consisted of the sale of 1,000 shares
of a new series of non-voting preferred stock, designated as Series C 7%
Convertible Preferred Stock. Headwaters received $900,000 in net proceeds from
the issuance of this preferred stock. Warrants for the purchase of 72,727 shares
of Common Stock were issued in conjunction with this preferred stock. The
warrants are exercisable from April 1999 through July 2001 at an exercise price
of $6.88 per share. The warrants issued and changes made to other existing
warrants were valued at approximately $500,000. The exercise deadline for
certain other warrants with an exercise price of $7.00 per share held by Mr.
Johnson were extended to June 2000 and certain additional warrants with an
exercise price of $30.00 per share were relinquished and canceled. Headwaters
granted registration rights for the restricted common shares issuable upon
conversion of the preferred stock or upon exercise of the Common Stock warrants.
Through January 4, 2000, all of the Series C preferred stock had been converted.
Approximately 237,000 shares of Common Stock were issued on conversion of the
preferred stock and related accrued but unpaid dividends.
Issuance of Convertible Debt to Aspen Capital Resources, LLC. In
September 1999, Headwaters entered into a transaction with Aspen Capital
Resources, LLC ("Aspen"), which is 99% owned by Joe K. Johnson, a former major
stockholder and lender to Headwaters, to provide financing of up to $4 million
in the form of convertible secured debt. The agreement provided for Headwaters
to make draws as needed. Headwaters received $850,000 at the time of closing,
less a placement fee of 10%, and subsequent to September 30, 1999 received a
total of $1,650,000, less a placement fee of 10%. The debt was convertible at
$3.00 per share, or market, whichever was less, and was convertible at the rate
of 25% every 30 days beginning 30 days from the date of closing, subject to
certain restrictions. Headwaters could redeem all outstanding debt at a rate of
125% of face value by providing 30 days notice. Borrowings were due in March
2001, if not converted earlier, and interest payments were due quarterly
beginning March 2000. Headwaters assigned the royalties to be received from a
licensed synthetic fuel facility as collateral for the financing. In November
and December 1999, approximately 2,532,000 shares of Common Stock were issued on
conversion of $1,460,000 of the convertible debt. The remaining debt was
redeemed by Headwaters in January 2000.
The agreement required the issuance of warrants to purchase Headwaters
shares equal to 40% of the shares issuable under any borrowings under this
financing arrangement. The warrants have a three-year exercise period and an
exercise price of $3.60 per share. Warrants for the purchase of a total of
approximately 350,000 shares of Common Stock were issued and were assigned a
value, using the Black-Scholes option valuation model, of approximately
$477,000.
12
Issuance of Convertible Debt to DH Financial, L.C. In December 1999,
Headwaters placed the final $1,500,000 of financing with DH Financial, L.C.
rather than Aspen providing the entire $4,000,000 of funding as provided under
the September financing arrangement. The terms and conditions of the financing
with DH Financial, L.C. were similar to the September financing. As of December
20, 1999, Headwaters had received a total of $1,500,000, less a placement fee of
10%. The debt was convertible at $.73 per share, the market price at closing, or
market price on the conversion date, whichever was less. The debt was
convertible after January 21, 2000. All of this debt was redeemed by Headwaters
in January 2000. The redemption consideration paid for this redemption and the
Aspen redemption discussed above included approximately $1,000,000 in redemption
premiums plus approximately 214,000 shares of Common Stock. The loss recognized
as a result of the redemption consideration paid plus the acceleration of
amortization of the unamortized debt discount and debt issuance costs totaled
approximately $1,823,000.
The agreement required the issuance of warrants to purchase Headwaters
shares equal to 40% of the shares issuable under the debt agreement. Warrants
for the purchase of approximately 935,000 shares were issued. The warrants have
a three-year exercise period and an exercise price of $.88 per share, and were
assigned a value, using the Black-Scholes option valuation model, of
approximately $269,000.
Loan with Trans Pacific Stores, Ltd. ("TPS"). On June 12, 1998,
Headwaters entered into a loan agreement in which TPS, a company for which Mr.
John Hill, a director of Headwaters, serves as president, agreed to loan
Headwaters $4,000,000. Warrants to purchase 100,000 shares of Common Stock were
granted in October 1998 based on the outstanding principal balance at that time.
The warrants were assigned a value, using the Black-Scholes option valuation
model, of approximately $247,000. Interest on the outstanding principal balance
accrued at 18% per annum until October 1998, at which time it increased to 22%.
Principal and interest were originally due and payable June 12, 1999. The terms
of this loan were amended in May 1999.
In January 2000, Headwaters repaid $1,000,000 of this debt. In April
2000, $2,000,000 of the debt was converted into approximately 1,186,000 shares
of Common Stock and warrants for the purchase of approximately 296,000 shares of
Common Stock (exercisable through April 2005 at a price of $2.10 per share). The
due date for the remaining $1,000,000 of debt was extended to April 2001, but in
July 2000, Headwaters repaid the $1,000,000 and there is currently no amount
outstanding under this debt agreement.
Employment Agreements. Headwaters has entered into employment
agreements with Messrs. Benson, Cook and Stewart which provide for significant
benefits. See "Employment Contracts and Termination of Employment and Change in
Control Arrangements." As of September 30, 2000, Headwaters had also entered
into employment agreements with three other employees. The agreements generally
are renewable by Headwaters and have terms of one to three years. They provide
for annual salaries and benefits ranging from approximately $132,000 to $250,000
annually per officer or employee, currently totaling approximately $1,142,000
for all officers and employees combined. All agreements provide for termination
benefits, generally consisting of at least one-year's salary.
Cancellation of Related Party Notes Receivable. In 2000, Headwaters
entered into termination agreements with certain current and former officers and
employees having notes and interest payable to Headwaters totaling approximately
$6,164,000. The agreements were entered into because of Headwaters' desire to
reduce outstanding shares, simplify its balance sheet presentation of the notes
receivable and because it was unlikely that the notes would be repaid. The
agreements called for the cancellation of the outstanding balances under the
notes, including interest, in exchange for the surrender and cancellation of the
outstanding shares of common stock collateralizing the notes. These transactions
did not involve any of the named executives and resulted in the cancellation of
approximately 812,000 shares of Common Stock and the recognition of a loss of
approximately $219,000, which amount represents the interest recognized on the
notes in prior periods.
SECTION 16(a) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE
Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 requires
Headwaters' officers and directors, and persons who own more than 10% of a
registered class of Headwaters' equity securities, to file reports of ownership
and changes in ownership with the SEC and the National Association of Securities
Dealers. Officers, directors, and greater than 10% stockholders are required by
SEC regulations to furnish Headwaters with copies of all Section 16(a) forms
they file. Based solely on a review of the copies of such forms furnished to
Headwaters between October 1, 1999 and September 30, 2000, on year-end reports
furnished to Headwaters after September 30, 2000, and on
13
representations that no other reports were required, Headwaters has determined
that during the 2000 fiscal year all applicable 16(a) filing requirements were
met, except as follows.
Raymond J. Weller, a director of Headwaters, acquired 500 shares of
common stock of Headwaters on May 9, 2000. The transaction was reported on a
Form 4 filed on December 13, 2000. Mr. Weller also acquired 6,800 shares of
Headwaters common stock on June 29, 2000, for which a Form 5 was filed reporting
the transaction on or about November 14, 2000.
PROPOSAL NO. 1 - ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
Nominees for Election as Director
At the Meeting, the stockholders will elect two Class I directors to
hold office until the annual meeting of stockholders in 2004, the expiration of
their terms, or until their successors are duly elected and qualified. The Board
of Directors is divided into three classes, currently comprised of two Class I
directors, whose terms will expire at the Meeting, three Class II directors,
whose terms will expire at Headwaters' annual meeting in 2002, and one Class III
director, whose term will expire at Headwaters' annual meeting in 2003. The
Board currently consists of six members: Raymond J. Weller, Brent M. Cook,
DeLance W. Squire, James A. Herickhoff, John P. Hill, Jr., and Kirk A. Benson.
The Board proposes that the individuals listed below as nominees be elected as
Class I directors of Headwaters. The nominees have consented to serve if elected
to the Board. In the event that one or both of the nominees are unable to serve
as director at the time of the Meeting (which is not expected), proxies with
respect to which no contrary direction is made will be voted "FOR" such
substitute nominee(s) as shall be designated by the Board to fill the vacancy or
vacancies.
The names of the nominees, together with certain information about
them, is set forth below:
Name Age Position with Headwaters Director Since
---- --- ------------------------ --------------
James A. Herickhoff 58 Director 1997
John P. Hill, Jr. 40 Director 1997
James A. Herickhoff has served as a Director since August 1997 and was
elected Vice Chairman in April 1999. Mr. Herickhoff is President, Chief
Operating Officer and a principal of Wold Talc Company, which operates one of
the largest talc mines in the United States. From 1987 to 1994 he served as
President of Atlantic Richfield Company's Thunder Basin Coal Company. Mr.
Herickhoff has over 25 years of experience in the coal and mining industries and
extensive experience in strategic positioning of these companies for long-term
growth and competitiveness. Mr. Herickhoff led the growth of the Black Thunder
and Coal Creek coal mines from 19,000,000 to approximately 40,000,000 tons per
year of production. Mr. Herickhoff previously served as President of Mountain
Coal Company, managing all of ARCO's underground mining and preparation plants.
Mr. Herickhoff is the past President of the Wyoming Mining Association and a
former Board member of the Colorado and Utah Mining Associations. Mr. Herickhoff
received a Bachelor degree in 1964 from St. John's University, a Master of
Science degree in 1966 from St. Cloud State University and attended the Kellogg
Executive Management Institute at Northwestern University in 1986. Mr.
Herickhoff's term expires in 2001.
John P. Hill, Jr. has served as a Director since September 1997. Mr.
Hill is the president of Quince Associates, a closely-held investment company.
Since 1989, Mr. Hill has also served as President of Trans Pacific Stores, Ltd.,
a privately held operator of retail stores. Prior to 1989, Mr. Hill was the
Chief Financial Officer for various privately held retail and restaurant
companies. Mr. Hill received a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from the
University of Maryland and became a Certified Public Accountant in 1984. Mr.
Hill's term expires in 2001.
The names of the Class II directors, together with certain information
about them, are set forth below:
Name Age Position with Headwaters Director Since
---- --- ------------------------ --------------
Raymond J. Weller 55 Director 1991
DeLance W. Squire 81 Director 1996
Kirk A. Benson 50 Chairman and 1999
Chief Executive Officer
14
Raymond J. Weller has served as a Director of Headwaters since July
1991 and served as Chairman of the Board from January 1997 through July 1998.
Since 1991, Mr. Weller has been Vice President of Health Care Benefits of Utah,
a Utah based insurance brokerage firm. From 1985 to 1991, Mr. Weller was an
agent with the insurance brokerage of Galbraith, Benson, and McKay. Mr. Weller's
term expires in 2002.
DeLance W. Squire has served as a Director of Headwaters since December
1996. Currently Mr. Squire is President of Management and Professional Inc. Mr.
Squire was the founder of Squire & Co., Orem, Utah and retired in 1986. From
1986 until 1987, Mr. Squire served as the Executive Director for the Commission
for Economic Development, Orem, Utah. Mr. Squire was previously the mayor of the
City of Orem, Utah. In addition, Mr. Squire serves as the chairman of the board
of trustees for Timpanogos Regional Hospital, Orem, Utah. Mr. Squire received
his B.S. degree in Accounting from Brigham Young University in 1947 and became a
Certified Public Accountant in 1950. Mr. Squire`s term expires in 2002.
Kirk A. Benson has served as a Director of Headwaters since January
1999 and as Chairman and CEO since April 1999. Most recently, Mr. Benson was
Senior Vice President of Foundation Health Systems, Inc., one of the nation's
largest publicly traded managed healthcare companies. Mr. Benson was with
Foundation Health Systems and its predecessors for approximately ten years,
holding various positions including president and chief operating officer for
commercial operations, general counsel, and senior vice president for
development with responsibility for merger and acquisition activity. Mr. Benson
is a Ph.D. candidate at the Peter F. Drucker Graduate School of Management at
Claremont Graduate University. He also holds a Master of Laws in Taxation from
the University of Denver, and a Master of Accountancy and Juris Doctorate from
Brigham Young University. Mr. Benson's term as a Director expires in 2002.
The name of the Class III Director, together with certain information
about him, is set forth below:
Name Age Positions with Headwaters Director Since
---- --- ------------------------- --------------
Brent M. Cook 40 Director and President 1996
Brent M. Cook has served as President since April 1999. From November
1996 to April 1999 he served as Chief Executive Officer. He also served as
President from October 1996 until July 1998, and as Chief Financial Officer from
June 1996 until November 1996. Mr. Cook is a Certified Public Accountant. Prior
to joining Headwaters, Mr. Cook was Director of Strategic Accounts-Utah
Operations, for PacifiCorp, Inc. ("PacifiCorp"). His responsibilities included
the management of revenues of approximately $128 million per year, and seeking
out and evaluating strategic growth opportunities for PacifiCorp, including
joint ventures and other transactions. Mr. Cook spent more than 12 years with
PacifiCorp. Mr. Cook has served as a Director since November 1996. His term as a
Director expires in 2003.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE "FOR"
THE ELECTION OF MESSRS. HERICKHOFF AND HILL
PROPOSAL NO. 2 -- RATIFICATION OF APPOINTMENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
The Audit Committee and the Board have appointed Arthur Andersen LLP,
certified public accountants, as auditors to examine the financial statements of
Headwaters for Fiscal 2001 and to perform other appropriate accounting services
and are requesting ratification of such appointment by the stockholders.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (formerly Coopers & Lybrand L.L.P.) served as
Headwaters' auditors from 1994 to July 2000, at which time they were dismissed.
PricewaterhouseCoopers' reports on the financial statements for the fiscal years
ended September 30, 1998 and 1999 were unqualified. During the two fiscal years
ended September 30, 1999 and through July 2000, there were no disagreements with
PricewaterhouseCoopers on any matter of accounting principles or practices,
financial statement disclosure, or auditing scope or procedure, which
disagreement, if not resolved to the satisfaction of PricewaterhouseCoopers,
would have caused them to make reference to the subject matter of the
disagreement in connection with their reports.
In the event that the stockholders do not ratify the appointment of
Arthur Andersen LLP, the adverse vote will be considered a directive to the
Audit Committee and the Board to select other auditors for the next fiscal year.
15
A representative of Arthur Andersen LLP is expected to attend the
Meeting and will have an opportunity to make a statement if he or she desires to
do so and to respond to appropriate questions.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS DEEMS PROPOSAL NO. 2 TO BE IN THE BEST INTERESTS
OF HEADWATERS AND ITS STOCKHOLDERS AND RECOMMENDS
A VOTE "FOR" APPROVAL THEREOF
STOCKHOLDER PROPOSALS
Stockholders may submit proposals on matters appropriate for
stockholder action at Headwaters' annual meeting consistent with regulations
adopted by the SEC. For such proposals to be considered for inclusion in the
proxy statement and form of proxy relating to the 2002 annual meeting, they must
be received by Headwaters not later than September 21, 2001 or such later date
as Headwaters may specify in its SEC filings. Such proposals should be addressed
to Headwaters at 11778 S. Election Drive, Suite 210, Draper, Utah 84020, Attn:
Corporate Secretary.
It is anticipated that proxies solicited in connection with Headwaters'
2002 annual meeting will confer discretionary authority to vote on matters,
among others, of which Headwaters does not receive notice prior to September 21,
2001.
OTHER MATTERS
Management does not intend to present, and has no information as of the
date of preparation of this Proxy Statement that others will present, any
business at the Meeting other than business pertaining to matters required to be
set forth in the Notice of Annual Meeting and Proxy Statement. However, if other
matters requiring the vote of the stockholders properly come before the Meeting,
it is the intention of the persons named in the enclosed proxy to vote the
proxies held by them in accordance with their best judgment on such matters.
SOLICITATION OF PROXIES
The accompanying form of proxy is being solicited on behalf of the
Board. The expense of solicitation of proxies for the Meeting will be paid by
Headwaters. In addition to the mailing of the proxy material, such solicitation
may be made in person or by written communication, telephone or telegraph by
directors, officers, employees or agents of Headwaters or its subsidiaries.
If you have any questions about giving your proxy or require any
assistance, please contact Sharon Madden, Headwaters' Director of Investor
Relations, at 1-800-316-6214.
YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT. YOU ARE URGED TO DATE, SIGN AND PROMPTLY RETURN
YOUR PROXY CARD SO THAT YOUR SHARES MAY BE VOTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR WISHES
AND THAT THE PRESENCE OF A QUORUM MAY BE ASSURED. THE PROMPT RETURN OF YOUR
SIGNED PROXY CARD, REGARDLESS OF THE NUMBER OF SHARES YOU HOLD, WILL AID
HEADWATERS IN AVOIDING THE EXPENSE OF ADDITIONAL PROXY SOLICITATIONS. GIVING
YOUR PROXY DOES NOT AFFECT YOUR RIGHT TO VOTE IN PERSON AT THE MEETING OR YOUR
RIGHT TO RESUBMIT LATER DATED PROXY CARDS.
Headwaters Incorporated
By Order of the Board of Directors,
/s/ Harlan M. Hatfield
-------------------------------
Harlan M. Hatfield
Secretary
Draper, Utah
January 26, 2001
16
HEADWATERS INCORPORATED
PROXY SOLICITED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 2001
The undersigned stockholder(s) of Headwaters Incorporated, a Delaware
corporation (the "Company"), revoking all previous proxies, hereby appoints
Harlan M. Hatfield as the attorney and proxy of the undersigned, with full power
of substitution, to cast all votes for all shares of Common Stock of Headwaters
which the undersigned would be entitled to cast if personally present at the
Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Headwaters to be held at the Country Inn &
Suites, 10499 South Jordan Gateway, South Jordan, UT 84095, on Friday, March 23,
2001, at 2:00 p.m., Mountain Standard Time, and any and all adjournments or
postponements thereof. Said proxies are authorized and directed to vote as
indicated with respect to the following matters:
(Please date and sign below)
Please mark your vote as this [X]
1. ELECTION OF DIRECTORS:
John P. Hill, Jr. FOR [ ] WITHHOLD [ ]
(If elected, Mr. Hill's term AUTHORITY
would expire in 2004)
James A. Herickhoff FOR [ ] WITHHOLD [ ]
(If elected, Mr. Herickhoff's AUTHORITY
term would expire in 2004)
2. RATIFY THE SELECTION BY THE BOARD FOR [ ] AGAINST [ ]
OF ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP AS INDEPENDENT ABSTAIN [ ]
AUDITORS OF HEADWATERS FOR THE 2001
FISCAL YEAR
This Proxy is solicited on behalf of the Board of Directors. Unless
otherwise specified, the shares will be voted "FOR" items 1 and 2. This Proxy
also delegates discretionary authority to the proxy to vote with respect to any
other business which may properly come before the Annual Meeting of Stockholders
and any and all adjournments or postponements thereof to the extent allowed by
Rule 14a-4(c) as promulgated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
THE UNDERSIGNED HEREBY ACKNOWLEDGES RECEIPT OF THE NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING AND
PROXY STATEMENT OF HEADWATERS INCORPORATED.
Dated: ________________________________, 2001
_____________________________________________
Name of Stockholder
_____________________________________________
Signature of Stockholder
NOTE: Please date and sign this Proxy exactly as the names appear hereon. When
signing as attorney-in-fact, executor, administrator, trustee or guardian,
please add your title as such. Proxies executed in the name of a corporation
should be signed on behalf of the corporation by a duly authorized officer.
Where shares are owned in the name of two or more persons, all such persons
should sign.
PLEASE RETURN YOUR COMPLETED PROXY IN THE ENCLOSED POSTAGE PAID ENVELOPE.
APPENDIX A
HEADWATERS INCORPORATED
CHARTER
AUDIT COMMITTEE OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Purpose and Mission
The Audit Committee will, on behalf of the Shareholders, provide oversight of
HEADWATERS management in areas of corporate governance including:
1. The financial reporting system, the system of controls, the outside
independent auditing process and audit results;
2. Legal and regulatory compliance in areas where control systems must be
in place to reduce financial risk and exposure to the company to
acceptable levels.
Structure of the Committee
The Audit Committee will be composed of no less than three outside Directors.
There shall be no inside Directors on the Committee, nor Directors who have
previously been officers of the Company.
A Chairman shall be appointed by the Chairman of the Board of Directors and
shall serve a maximum of three years as Chairman or until the Chairman is no
longer a member of the Board.
Committee members will serve staggered terms. The appointments to terms shall be
made by the Board Chairman.
The Committee shall meet at least semi-annually, or more frequently as
necessary.
Role and Responsibilities of the Audit Committee
The Committee, in addition to the scope of activities listed below, may extend
its oversight to other areas or activities as may be determined by the Committee
or requested by the full Board of Directors.
The Committee will:
1. Conduct reviews of the financial internal control system including
approval systems, segregation of duties, reporting structure, policies
and adequacy of reports, and compliance with GAAP.
2. Review significant accounting and reporting issues of the Company,
including professional and regulatory pronouncements. Review interim
financial reports.
3. Review the scope, approach, performance, and fee arrangement of outside
auditors.
4. Review audit findings and recommendations for improvement and report to
the full Board, complete with its recommendations. Evaluate the
performance of outside auditors.
5. Review management's system for compliance with the Corporate Code of
Conduct, the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Foreign Corrupt
Practices Act, and with regulations of act such as ERISA, EPA, RCRA,
CERCLA, the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, MSHA, OSHA, and so
forth.
6. Review policies and procedures for approval of Company officers'
expenses and perquisites.
7. Review with corporate counsel, any legal matters which could have
significant impact on the Company's financial position
8. Review and approve, prior to placement, the appointment of the Chief
Financial Officer and head of an internal audit function.
9. Conduct a review of the performance of each Audit Committee member and
report to the Board Chairman.
10. Report regularly to the full Board on matters of significance to the
Company.
11. Review management's consultations with outside accounting advisors on
significant accounting or reporting issues.
SUBMITTED BY AUDIT COMMITTEE: APPROVED BY BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Date: May 25, 2000 Date: May 25, 2000
------------- -------------
Chairman
Chairman: /s/ James A. Herickhoff & Director: /s/ Kirk A. Benson
----------------------- ------------------
James A. Herickhoff Kirk A. Benson
President
/s/ DeLance W. Squire & Director: /s/ Brent M. Cook
---------------------- -----------------
DeLance W. Squire Brent M. Cook
/s/ John P. Hill, Jr. CFO: /s/ Steven G. Stewart
---------------------- ---------------------
John P. Hill, Jr. Steven G. Stewart
Director: /s/ Raymond J. Weller
---------------------
Raymond J. Weller
Director: /s/ John P. Hill, Jr.
---------------------
John P. Hill, Jr.
Director: /s/ DeLance W. Squire
---------------------
DeLance W. Squire
Director: /s/ James A. Herickhoff
-----------------------
James A. Herickhoff