SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION
PROXY STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 14(a) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Filed by the Registrant [ X ]
Filed by a Party other than the Registrant [ ]
Check the appropriate box:
[ X ] Preliminary Proxy Statement
[ ] Confidential, for Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by
Rule 14a-6(e)(2))
[ ] Definitive Proxy Statement
[ ] Definitive Additional Materials
[ ] Soliciting Material Pursuant to ss. 240.14a-11(c) or ss. 240.14a-12
MERCURY COMPUTER SYSTEMS, INC.
(Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
N/A
(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)(4)
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 by written 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: ____________________________________________
MERCURY COMPUTER SYSTEMS, INC.
199 Riverneck Road
Chelmsford, MA 01824
(978) 256-1300
October 15, 1999
Dear Stockholder:
Mercury Computer Systems, Inc. (the "Corporation") will hold a Special
Meeting of Stockholders (the "Meeting") in lieu of the 1999 Annual Meeting of
Stockholders on November 18, 1999 at the offices of Hutchins, Wheeler & Dittmar,
A Professional Corporation, 101 Federal Street, Boston, Massachusetts. We look
forward to your attending either in person or by proxy. The Notice of Meeting,
the Proxy Statement and the Proxy Card from the Board of Directors are enclosed.
These materials provide further information concerning the Meeting.
At this year's Meeting, the agenda includes (i) election of Class II
Directors, (ii) approval of an amendment to the Corporation's Articles of
Organization increasing the number of shares of Common Stock which the
Corporation has the authority to issue from 25,000,000 shares to 40,000,000
shares, and (iii) authorization of an increase in the number of shares issuable
pursuant to the Corporation's 1997 Stock Option Plan (the "1997 Plan"). The
Board of Directors recommends that you vote FOR the election of the slate of
nominees for directors, FOR the amendment to the Corporation's Articles of
Organization, and FOR the authorization of the increase in the number of shares
issuable pursuant to the 1997 Plan.
Please refer to the enclosed Proxy Statement for detailed information
on each of these proposals. If you have any further questions concerning the
Meeting or any of the proposals, please feel free to contact the Corporation at
(978) 256-1300.
Sincerely yours,
James R. Bertelli
President and Chief Executive Officer
MERCURY COMPUTER SYSTEMS, INC.
Notice of Special Meeting of Stockholders in Lieu of the
1999 Annual Meeting of Stockholders
November 18, 1999
To the Stockholders:
A Special Meeting of the Stockholders of MERCURY COMPUTER SYSTEMS, INC.
in lieu of the 1999 Annual Meeting of Stockholders will be held on Thursday,
November 18, 1999 at 10:00 a.m. at the offices of Hutchins, Wheeler & Dittmar, A
Professional Corporation, Suite 3101, 101 Federal Street, Boston, Massachusetts,
for the following purposes:
1. To elect Dr. Gordon Baty as a Director for a term of three years, as
more fully described in the accompanying Proxy Statement.
2. To elect Mr. Sherman Mullin as a Director for a term of three years,
as more fully described in the accompanying Proxy Statement.
3. To approve an amendment to the Corporation's Articles of
Organization to increase the number of shares of Common Stock which the
Corporation has the authority to issue from 25,000,000 shares to 40,000,000
shares.
4. To authorize an increase in the number of shares issuable pursuant
to the Corporation's 1997 Stock Option Plan.
5. To consider and act upon any other business which may properly come
before the meeting.
The Board of Directors has fixed the close of business on October 8,
1999, as the record date for the meeting. All stockholders of record on that
date are entitled to notice of and to vote at the meeting.
PLEASE COMPLETE AND RETURN THE ENCLOSED PROXY IN THE ENVELOPE PROVIDED
WHETHER OR NOT YOU INTEND TO BE PRESENT AT THE MEETING IN PERSON.
By order of the Board of Directors
ANTHONY J. MEDAGLIA, JR., Clerk
Chelmsford, Massachusetts
October 15, 1999
MERCURY COMPUTER SYSTEMS, INC.
PROXY STATEMENT
This Proxy Statement is furnished in connection with the solicitation
of proxies by the Board of Directors of Mercury Computer Systems, Inc. (the
"Corporation") for use at the Special Meeting of Stockholders in lieu of the
1999 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on Thursday, November 18, 1999,
at the time and place set forth in the notice of the meeting, and at any
adjournments thereof (the "Meeting"). The approximate date on which this Proxy
Statement and form of proxy are first being sent to stockholders is October 15,
1999.
Voting and Revocability of Proxies
If the enclosed proxy is properly executed and is received prior to the
Meeting, it will be voted in the manner directed by the stockholder. If no
instructions are specified with respect to any particular matter to be acted
upon, proxies will be voted in favor thereof. Any person giving the enclosed
form of proxy has the power to revoke it by voting in person at the meeting, or
by giving written notice of revocation to the Clerk of the Corporation any time
before the proxy is exercised.
The holders of a majority in interest of all Common Stock issued,
outstanding and entitled to vote are required to be present in person or to be
represented by proxy at the meeting in order to constitute a quorum for the
transaction of business. The election of the nominees for Director will be
decided by plurality vote. Additionally, the affirmative vote of at least a
majority of shares of Common Stock issued, outstanding and entitled to vote is
required to approve an increase in the number of shares of Common Stock that the
Corporation has authority to issue and the affirmative vote in person or by
proxy of holders of at least a majority of shares of Common Stock entitled to
vote at the Meeting is required to approve an increase in the number of shares
of Common Stock issuable pursuant to the Corporation's 1997 Stock Option Plan.
Both abstentions and broker "non-votes" are counted as present for the purposes
of determining the existence of a quorum for the transaction of business.
However, for purposes of determining the number of shares voting on a particular
proposal, abstentions and broker "non-votes" are not counted as votes cast or
shares voting.
The Corporation will bear the cost of the solicitation. It is expected that
the solicitation will be made primarily by mail, but regular employees or
representatives of the Corporation (none of whom will receive any extra
compensation for their activities) may also solicit proxies by telephone,
telegraph and in person and arrange for brokerage houses and other custodians,
nominees, and fiduciaries to send proxies and proxy materials to their
principals at the expense of the Corporation.
The Corporation's principal executive offices are located at 199 Riverneck
Road, Chelmsford, Massachusetts 01824, telephone number (978) 256-1300.
Record Date and Voting Securities
Only stockholders of record at the close of business on October 8, 1999
are entitled to notice of and to vote at the meeting. On that date the
Corporation had outstanding and entitled to vote [ ] shares of Common Stock, par
value $.01 per share. Each outstanding share of the Corporation's Common Stock
entitles the record holder to one vote.
ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
Pursuant to Massachusetts law, the Board of Directors is divided into three
classes, with each class as nearly equal in number as possible. Presently, the
Board of Directors consists of six members, with Dr. Albert Belle Isle and Mr.
Melvin Sallen serving as Class I Directors; Dr. Gordon Baty and Mr. Sherman
Mullin serving as Class II Directors; and Mr. James Bertelli and Mr. R. Schorr
Berman serving as Class III Directors. The terms of the Class I, Class II, and
Class III Directors expire in 2001, 1999, and 2000, respectively. Following
expiration of its respective current term, each class is then elected for a
subsequent three-year term.
It is proposed that the Class II nominees listed below, whose terms
expire at this meeting, be elected to serve a term of three years and until
their successors are duly elected and qualified or until they sooner die, resign
or are removed.
The persons named in the accompanying proxy will vote, unless authority
is withheld, for the election of the nominees named below. If such nominees
should become unavailable for election, which is not anticipated, the persons
named in the accompanying proxy will vote for such substitute as the Board of
Directors may recommend. The nominees are not related to any Executive Officer
of the Corporation or its subsidiaries.
Year First Position With the Corporation
Elected a or Principal Occupation
Name of Nominee Age Director During Past Five Years
Nominated for a term ending in 2002:
Dr. Gordon B. Baty 60 1983 Dr. Baty has been a partner of Zero Stage Capital
Co., Inc., a venture capital firm, since 1986. Dr.
Baty was the founder and Chief Executive Officer of
Icon Corporation, Context Corporation, and Wormser
Engineering, Inc. Dr. Baty is also a Director of
nine private companies.
Sherman N. Mullin 63 1994 Mr. Mullin served as President of Lockheed Advanced
Development Co., a defense contractor, from 1990
through 1994. Mr. Mullin currently serves as an
ad-hoc advisor to the U.S. Air Force Scientific
Advisory Board.
Serving a term ending in 2000:
James R. Bertelli 59 1981 Mr. Bertelli co-founded the Corporation in 1981, and has
served as the Corporation's President, Chief
Executive Officer, and a Director since that time.
Prior to founding the Corporation, Mr. Bertelli
founded a manufacturer's representative
organization after a brief period at Analogic
Corporation in sales management positions. Prior
to that, Mr. Bertelli served as a marketing manager
for Digital Equipment Corporation's telephone
industry products group. After a tour of duty in
the Army Signal Corps, Mr. Bertelli began his
high-tech career with RCA Corporation as a computer
systems analyst, and later moved into computer
sales with RCA and Univac.
R. Schorr Berman 51 1993 Mr. Berman is President and Chief Executive Officer of MDT
Advisers, Inc., a money management firm. Mr.
Berman is also a director of Arch Communications
Group, Inc. and numerous private companies.
Serving a term ending in 2001:
Dr. Albert P. Belle Isle 56 1986 Dr. Belle Isle is an independent investor in
technology-based companies, was President of Custom
Silicon, Inc., a semiconductor company, and has
also served as a Vice President of Wang
Laboratories, Inc. and in various technical and
business management positions during fifteen years
with the General Electric Company.
Melvin Sallen 71 1990 Since 1991, Mr. Sallen has served as a consultant
to the Corporation in the area of Japanese
Strategies and Sales. Mr. Sallen served as Senior
Vice President of Analog Devices, Inc. from 1966
through 1992. Since 1992, Mr. Sallen has served as
President of Komon International, Inc., an
international consulting company. Mr. Sallen is
also a director of Tech On Line, Inc. and Copley
Controls Corporation.
INFORMATION CONCERNING THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
During fiscal year 1999, there were nine (9) meetings of the Board of
Directors of the Corporation, two (2) meetings of the Audit Committee (see
below) and eight (8) meetings of the Compensation Committee (see below). All of
the Directors attended at least 85% of the aggregate of (i) the total number
of meetings of the Board of Directors and (ii) the total number of meetings held
by committees of the Board of Directors on which they served. The Board of
Directors does not have a nominating committee. Effective July 1, 1998, each
Director receives cash compensation in the amount of $9,000 for the fiscal year,
paid quarterly, plus an additional $2,000 for each meeting attended, as well as
reimbursement for reasonable expenses incurred in connection with attendance at
Board and committee meetings. In addition, committee members and the committee
chairman receive an annual retainer of $1,000 and $1,750, respectively, paid
quarterly, as well as an additional $300 for attending a meeting not held on the
same day as a meeting of the Board of Directors. The cash compensation paid to
Directors in their capacity as such during fiscal year 1999 was as follows:
Director Cash Compensation
-------- -----------------
Gordon B. Baty $28,650
Albert P. Belle Isle $26,600
R. Schorr Berman $26,200
James R. Bertelli $ 0
Sherman N. Mullin $26,050
Melvin Sallen $27,350
In addition to cash compensation, Directors are also granted options
pursuant to the 1998 Stock Option Plan for Non-Employee Directors.
The Board of Directors has a standing Audit Committee and Compensation
Committee. The members of the Audit Committee are Dr. Baty, Dr. Belle Isle and
Mr. Berman. The Audit Committee reviews the scope of the Corporation's
engagement of its independent public accountant and their reports. The Audit
Committee also meets with the financial staff of the Corporation to review
accounting procedures and reports. The Compensation Committee is currently
comprised of Messrs. Berman, Mullin and Sallen. Mr. Mullin replaced Dr. Baty on
the Compensation Committee effective October 27, 1998. The Compensation
Committee is authorized to review and make recommendations to the Board of
Directors regarding the salaries and bonuses to be paid executive officers and
to administer the Corporation's various stock option and stock purchase plans.
PROPOSED AMENDMENT INCREASING THE NUMBER OF SHARES OF COMMON STOCK WHICH
THE CORPORATION HAS THE AUTHORITY TO
ISSUE FROM 25,000,000 SHARES TO 40,000,000 SHARES
On September 13, 1999, the Board of Directors adopted the following
resolution:
RESOLVED: That this Board of Directors deems it advisable that
the Articles of Organization of this Corporation be
amended so as to increase the total number of shares
of Common Stock which this Corporation shall have
authority to issue from 25,000,000 shares, par value
$.01 per share, to 40,000,000 shares, par value $.01
per share.
The Board of Directors also directed that the proposed amendment (the
"Amendment") be submitted for action at the Special Meeting of Stockholders in
Lieu of the 1999 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on November 18, 1999.
The affirmative vote of at least a majority of shares of Common Stock entitled
to vote at the Meeting is required to approve the Amendment.
Increase in Number of Shares of Common Stock. If approved by the
stockholders, the Amendment will authorize the Company to issue an additional
15,000,000 shares of the Corporation's Common Stock, par value $.01 per share.
As of September 13, 1999, there were 25,000,000 shares of Common Stock
authorized, of which 10,362,637 shares were outstanding, 384,224 shares remain
reserved for issuance pursuant to the Corporation's stock option plans, and
221,766 shares remain reserved for issuance pursuant to the Corporation's 1997
Employee Stock Purchase Plan. The Board of Directors is empowered under the
Articles of Organization of the Corporation to issue shares of authorized stock
without further stockholder approval. The holders of the Corporation's Common
Stock do not have preemptive rights.
Appraisal Rights in Respect of the Proposed Amendment. Under the
applicable provisions of the Massachusetts Business Corporation Law, the
Corporation's stockholders have no appraisal rights with respect to the
Amendment.
Recommendations of the Board of Directors. As of September 13, 1999, there
were 14,031,373 shares available for issuance and not otherwise reserved of the
Corporation's Common Stock. Accordingly, the Board of Directors believes that
the number of authorized shares of Common Stock should be increased by
15,000,000 to provide sufficient shares for use for such corporate purposes as
may be determined advisable by the Board of Directors, without further action or
authorization by the stockholders. Such corporate purposes might include the
acquisition of capital funds through the sale of stock, the acquisition of other
corporations or properties, or the declaration of stock dividends in the nature
of a stock split. There are no current plans, agreements, arrangements, or
understandings with respect to the issuance of any of the shares of Common Stock
which would be authorized by the Amendment; however, the Board of Directors
believes that the availability of shares would afford the Corporation
flexibility in considering and implementing any of the corporate transactions
enumerated above. Accordingly, the Board of Directors recommends a vote for the
Amendment.
Possible Effects of the Amendment. If the stockholders approve the
Amendment, the Corporation will have additional authorized but unissued shares
of Common Stock that may be issued without further action or authorization of
the stockholders (except as required by law or the rules of the Nasdaq Stock
Market or other stock exchange on which the Corporation's securities may then be
listed). The issuance of additional shares of Common Stock would have a dilutive
effect on earnings per share. In addition, the issuance of additional shares of
Common Stock could have a dilutive effect on the voting power of the current
stockholders because they do not have preemptive rights. Finally, the Amendment
could, under certain circumstances, have an anti-takeover effect, because it
would enable the Board of Directors to issue shares of Common Stock to persons
who are opposed to a takeover bid. This could deter transactions that may result
in a change of control of the Corporation, including transactions in which
stockholders may receive a premium for their shares over the current market
prices. The Board of Directors, however, has presented the Amendment for the
purposes described above and not with the intent that it be utilized as a type
of anti-takeover device.
APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT OF THE MERCURY COMPUTER SYSTEMS, INC.
1997 STOCK OPTION PLAN
There will be presented at the meeting a proposal to approve an
amendment to the Mercury Computer Systems, Inc. 1997 Stock Option Plan (the
"Plan") which was adopted by the Board of Directors of the Corporation on
September 13, 1999. The Plan provides for the granting of both incentive stock
options meeting the requirements of Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986, as amended (the "Code") and non-qualified options which are not intended
to meet the requirements of the Code. The amendment increases the number of
shares reserved for issuance under the Plan from 1,325,000 shares of Common
Stock to 2,325,000 shares of Common Stock.
The Plan is intended to encourage ownership of the stock of the
Corporation by key employees of, and other key individuals engaged to provide
services to, the Corporation and its subsidiaries, to induce qualified personnel
to enter and remain in the employ of, or otherwise provide services to, the
Corporation or its subsidiaries and provide additional incentive for optionees
to promote the success of its business. The Plan is administered by a Committee
(the "Committee"), consisting of two or more members of the Corporation's Board
of Directors, each of whom is a disinterested person as defined in Rule 16b-3,
promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "1934 Act"). The
members of the Committee are appointed by the Board of Directors and the Board
may from time to time appoint a member or members of the Committee in
substitution for or in addition to the member or members then in office, and may
fill vacancies on the Committee, however caused. The present members of the
Committee are R. Schorr Berman, Sherman Mullin and Melvin Sallen, c/o Mercury
Computer Systems, Inc., 199 Riverneck Road, Chelmsford, Massachusetts, 01824.
The amendment increased the number of shares reserved for issuance
under the Plan from 1,325,000 shares of Common Stock to 2,325,000 shares of
Common Stock. The maximum number of shares of the Corporation's Common Stock for
which options may be granted under the Plan is subject to adjustments for
capital changes. Shares issued under the Plan may be authorized but unissued
shares of Common Stock or shares of Common Stock held in the treasury. As of
September 13, 1999, options for the purchase of 982,321 shares of Common Stock
were outstanding under the Plan and 342,679 shares were available for new
grants under the Plan.
Set forth below is a summary of other principal provisions of the Plan, a
copy of which may be obtained from the Clerk of the Corporation upon request.
The Board of Directors recommends that the stockholders approve the amendment to
the Plan. The affirmative vote of the holders of at least a majority of the
shares of Common Stock voting in person or by proxy at the Meeting will be
required for approval of the amendment to the Plan.
Options. The Plan provides that options designated as incentive stock
options may be granted only to employees (including officers and directors who
are also employees) of the Corporation or any subsidiary. Options designated as
non-qualified options may be granted to officers, directors, employees,
consultants and advisors of the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries.
In determining the eligibility of an individual to be granted an
option, as well as in determining the number of shares to be optioned to any
individual, the Committee takes into account the position and responsibilities
of the individual being considered, the nature and value to the Corporation or
its subsidiaries of the individual's service and accomplishments, his or her
present and potential contribution to the success of the Corporation or its
subsidiaries and such other factors as the Committee deems relevant.
The maximum number of shares with respect to which an option or options
may be granted to any employee in any one taxable year of the Corporation shall
not exceed 100,000, taking into account shares granted during such taxable
period under options that have terminated.
Terms and Provisions of Options. Options granted under the Plan are
exercisable at such times and during such period as is set forth in the option
agreement, but no option granted under the Plan can have a term in excess of 10
years from the date of grant. The option agreement may contain such provisions
and conditions as may be determined by the Committee. The option exercise price
for options designated as non-qualified stock options granted under the Plan is
determined by the Committee, but in no event shall be less than 50% of the fair
market value of the underlying Common Stock at the time such option is granted.
The option exercise price for incentive stock options granted under the Plan
shall be no less than fair market value of the Common Stock of the Corporation
at the time the option is granted. Options granted under the Plan may provide
for the payment of the exercise price by delivery of cash or shares of Common
Stock of the Corporation owned by the optionee having a fair market value equal
in amount to the exercise price of the options being exercised, or any
combination thereof; provided, however, that the payment of the exercise price
by delivery of shares of Common Stock of the Corporation owned by the optionee
may be made only if the payment does not result in a charge to earnings for
financial accounting purposes, as determined by the Committee.
The right of any optionee to exercise an option granted under the Plan
is not assignable or transferable by such optionee otherwise than by will or the
laws of descent and distribution, and any such option shall be exercisable
during the lifetime of such optionee only by him or her; provided, however, that
in the case of a non-qualified stock option, the Committee may permit
transferability of such options on such terms and conditions as determined by
the Committee and set forth in an Option Agreement.
An option granted to any employee or consultant optionee who ceases to
be an employee or consultant of the Corporation or one or its subsidiaries shall
terminate ten (10) days after the date such optionee ceases to be an employee or
consultant of the Corporation or one of its subsidiaries. If such termination of
employment or consultancy is because of dismissal for cause or because the
employee or consultant is in breach of any employment or consultant agreement,
such an option will terminate immediately on the date the optionee ceases to be
an employee or consultant of the Corporation or one of its subsidiaries. If such
termination of employment or consultancy is because the optionee has become
permanently disabled, the option shall terminate on the last day of the twelfth
month from the date such optionee ceases to be an employee or consultant. In the
event of the death of the optionee, the option shall terminate on the last day
of the twelfth month from the date of death. In no event shall an option be
exercisable after the date upon which it expires by its terms. The Committee has
the authority to extend the expiration date of any outstanding option in
circumstances in which it deems such action to be appropriate.
An option granted to an employee optionee who ceases to be an employee
of the Corporation or one of its subsidiaries shall be exercisable only to the
extent that the right to purchase shares under such option has accrued and is in
effect on the date such optionee ceases to be an employee of the Corporation or
one of its subsidiaries. In the event of the death of any optionee, the option
granted to such optionee may be exercised by the estate of such optionee, or by
any person or persons who acquired the right to exercise such option by bequest
or inheritance or by reason of the death of such optionee.
Recapitalization; Reorganization; Change of Control. The Plan provides
that the number and kind of shares as to which options may be granted thereunder
and as to which outstanding options then unexercised shall be exercisable shall
be adjusted to prevent dilution in the event of any reorganization, merger,
consolidation, recapitalization, reclassification, stock split-up, combination
of shares or dividends payable in capital stock. In addition, unless otherwise
determined by the Committee in its sole discretion, in the case of any sale or
conveyance to another entity of all or substantially all of the property and
assets of the Corporation or a Change of Control as defined in the Plan, the
purchaser of the Corporation's assets or stock may deliver to the optionee the
same kind of consideration that is delivered to the shareholders of the
Corporation as a result of the sale, conveyance or Change of Control or the
Committee may cancel all outstanding options in exchange for consideration in
cash or in kind, which consideration shall be equal in value to the value of
those shares of stock or other securities the optionee would have received had
the option been exercised (to the extent then exercisable) and no disposition of
the shares acquired upon such exercise has been made prior to such sale,
conveyance or Change of Control, less the option price therefor.
The Committee shall also have the power to accelerate the
exercisability of any options, notwithstanding any limitations in the Plan or in
the option agreement, upon such a sale, conveyance or Change of Control. Change
of Control is defined in the Plan as having occurred if any of the following
conditions have occurred: (1) the merger or consolidation of the Corporation
with another entity where the Corporation is not the surviving entity and where
after the merger or consolidation (i) its stockholders prior to the merger or
consolidation hold less than 50% of the voting stock of the surviving entity and
(ii) its Directors prior to the merger or consolidation are less than a majority
of the Board of the surviving entity; (2) the sale of all or substantially all
of the Corporation's assets to a third party and subsequent to the transaction
(i) its stockholders hold less than 50% of the stock of said third party and
(ii) its Directors are less than a majority of the Board of said third party;
(3) a transaction or series of related transactions, including a merger of the
Corporation with another entity where the Corporation is the surviving entity,
whereby 50% or more of the voting stock of the Corporation is transferred to
parties who are not prior thereto stockholders or affiliates of the Corporation;
or (4) the Continuing Directors shall not constitute a majority of the Board of
Directors of the Corporation. The term "Continuing Directors" shall mean a
member of the Board of Directors of the Corporation who either was a member of
the Board of Directors of the Corporation on the date the Plan was adopted by
the Board of Directors or who subsequently became a director of the Corporation
and whose initial appointment, initial election or initial nomination for
election by the Corporation's shareholders subsequent to such date was approved
by a vote of a majority of the Continuing Directors then on the Board of
Directors of the Corporation.
Upon dissolution or liquidation of the Corporation, all options granted
under the Plan shall terminate, but each optionee shall have the right,
immediately prior to such dissolution or liquidation, to exercise his or her
option to the extent then exercisable. The Committee shall have the right to
accelerate the vesting of any award or take such other action with respect
thereto as the Committee shall in its sole discretion determine in the event of
any contemplated dissolution or liquidation of the Corporation.
Termination and Amendment. Unless sooner terminated, the Plan shall
terminate ten (10) years from June 5, 1997, the date upon which it was adopted
by the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors may at any time terminate the
Plan or make such modification or amendment as it deems advisable; provided,
however, that the Board of Directors may not, without stockholder approval,
increase the maximum number of shares for which options may be granted or change
the designation of the class of persons eligible to receive options under the
Plan or make any other change in the Plan which requires stockholder approval
under applicable law or regulations, including any approval requirement which is
a prerequisite for exemptive relief under Section 16 of the 1934 Act. The
Committee may terminate, amend or modify any outstanding option without the
consent of the optionholder; provided, however, that without the consent of the
optionee, the Committee shall not change the number of shares subject to an
option nor the exercise price thereof, nor extend the term of such option.
TAX EFFECTS OF PLAN PARTICIPATION
Options granted under the Plan are intended to be either incentive
stock options, as defined in Section 422 of the Code, or non-qualified stock
options.
Incentive Stock Options. Except as provided below with respect to the
alternative minimum tax, the optionee will not recognize taxable income upon the
grant or exercise of an incentive stock option. If the optionee holds the shares
received pursuant to the exercise of the option for at least one year after the
date of exercise and for at least two years after the option is granted, the
optionee will recognize long-term capital gain or loss upon the disposition of
the stock measured by the difference between the option exercise price (the
stock's basis) and the amount received for such shares upon disposition.
In the event that the optionee disposes of the stock prior to the
expiration of the required holding periods (a "disqualifying disposition"), the
optionee generally will realize ordinary income equal to the difference between
the exercise price and the lower of the fair market value of the stock at the
date of the option exercise or the sale price of the stock. The basis in the
stock acquired upon exercise of the option will equal the amount of income
recognized by the optionee plus the option exercise price. Upon eventual
disposition of the stock, the optionee will recognize long-term or short-term
capital gain or loss, depending on the holding period of the stock and the
difference between the amount realized by the optionee upon disposition of the
stock and the optionee's basis in the stock.
For alternative minimum tax purposes, the excess of the fair market
value of stock on the date of the exercise of the incentive stock option over
the exercise price of the option is included in alternative minimum taxable
income for alternative minimum tax purposes. If the alternative minimum tax
applies to the optionee, an alternative minimum tax credit may reduce the
regular tax upon eventual disposition of the stock.
The Corporation will not be allowed an income tax deduction upon the
grant or exercise of an incentive stock option. Upon a disqualifying disposition
by the optionee of shares acquired upon exercise of the incentive stock option,
the Corporation will be allowed a deduction in an amount equal to the ordinary
income recognized by the optionee.
Under proposed regulations issued by the Internal Revenue Service, the
exercise of an option with previously acquired stock of the Company will be
treated as, in effect, two separate transactions. Pursuant to Section 1036 of
the Code, the first transaction will be a tax-free exchange of the previously
acquired shares for the same number of new shares. The new shares will retain
the basis and, except, as provided below, the holding periods of the previously
acquired shares. The second transaction will be the issuance of additional new
shares having a value equal to the difference between the aggregate fair market
value of all of the new shares being acquired and the aggregate option exercise
price for those shares. Because the exercise of an incentive stock option does
not result in the recognition by the optionee of income, this issuance will also
be tax-free (unless the alternative minimum tax applies, as described above).
The optionee's basis in these additional shares will be zero and the optionee's
holding period for these shares will commence on the date on which the shares
are transferred. For purposes of the one and two-year holding period
requirements which must be met for favorable incentive stock option tax
treatment to apply, the holding periods of previously acquired shares are
disregarded.
Non-qualified Stock Options. As in the case of incentive stock options,
no income is recognized by the optionee on the grant of a non-qualified stock
option. On the exercise by an optionee of a non-qualified option, generally the
excess of the fair market value of the stock when the option is exercised over
its cost to the optionee will be (a) taxable to the optionee as ordinary income
and (b) deductible for income tax purposes by the Corporation. The optionee's
tax basis in his stock will equal his cost for the stock plus the amount of
ordinary income the optionee had to recognize with respect to the non-qualified
stock option.
The Internal Revenue Service will treat the exercise of a non-qualified
stock option with already owned stock of the Company as two transactions. First,
there will be a tax-free exchange of the old shares for a like number of shares
under Section 1036 of the Code, with such exchanged shares retaining the basis
and holding period of the old shares. Second, there will be an issuance of
additional new shares having a value equal to the difference between the fair
market value of all new shares being acquired (including the exchanged shares
and the additional new shares) and the aggregate option price for those shares.
The employee will recognize ordinary income under Section 83 of the Code, in an
amount equal to the fair market value of the additional new shares (i.e., the
spread on the option). The additional new shares will have a basis equal to the
fair market value of the additional new shares.
Accordingly, upon a subsequent disposition of stock acquired upon the
exercise of a non-qualified stock option, the optionee will recognize short-term
or long-term capital gain or loss, depending upon the holding period of the
stock equal to the difference between the amount realized upon disposition of
the stock by the optionee and the optionee's basis in the stock.
For all options, different tax rules may apply if the optionee is
subject to Section 16 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
NEW PLAN BENEFITS
It is not possible to state the persons who will receive options or
awards under the 1997 Plan in the future, nor the amount of options or awards
which will be granted thereunder. The following table provides information with
respect to options granted since the beginning of fiscal 1999 under the 1997
Plan. See "Approval of Amendment of the Mercury Computer Systems, Inc. 1997
Stock Option Plan" for a description of the options which are provided for under
the 1997 Plan.
Name and Position Dollar Value 1997 Plan
Stock Options
James R. Bertelli, President and CEO (1) 15,052
G. Mead Wyman, Senior Vice President, Treasurer and CFO (1) 5,000
Donald Barry, Vice President and Director of Medical Business Group (1) 7,500
Vincent A. Mancuso, Vice President and Director of Government Electronics (1) 2,000
Group
All Executive Officers as a Group (1) 29,552
All Non-Executive Officer Directors (1) --
Employees as a Group (excluding Executive Officers) (1) 576,650
(1) The dollar value of the options is equal to the difference between the
exercise price of the options granted and the fair market value of the
Company's Common Stock at the date of exercise.
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION
During fiscal year 1999, Messrs. Berman and Sallen served on the
Compensation Committee of the Corporation's Board of Directors for the entire
year, Dr. Baty served on the Compensation Committee through October 27, 1998 and
Mr. Mullin served on the Compensation Committee from October 27, 1998 through
the remainder of the fiscal year. At the commencement of fiscal year 1999, the
Corporation had outstanding loans of (i) $125,000 to Dr. Albert Belle Isle, a
Director of the Corporation, and (ii) $200,000 to James R. Bertelli, President
and CEO of the Corporation, both of which loans were non-recourse and bore
interest at two percentage points above the prime rate per annum. Both loans
were paid in full as of October 1998.
PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF VOTING SECURITIES
The following table shows, as of September 1, 1999, any person who is
known by the Corporation to be the beneficial owner of more than five percent of
any class of voting securities of the Corporation. For purposes of this Proxy
Statement, beneficial ownership is defined in accordance with Rule 13d-3 under
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and means generally the power to vote or
dispose of the securities, regardless of any economic interest therein.
Name and Address Amount and Nature of Percent of
of Beneficial Owner Beneficial Ownership Class
Memorial Drive Trust (1).................................. 1,930,686 18.6%
R. Schorr Berman (2)........................................ 1,939,577 18.6%
- -----------------
(1) The address of this beneficial owner is MDT Advisers, Inc., 125
Cambridge Park Drive, Cambridge, MA, attention: R. Schorr Berman.
Shares are held of record by MD Co., a partnership organized by
Memorial Drive Trust to hold securities on behalf of Memorial Drive
Trust.
(2) Includes options to purchase 8,891 shares exercisable within sixty days
of September 1, 1999. Includes 1,930,686 shares owned by MD Co., as to
which Mr. Berman may be deemed beneficial owner and as to which Mr.
Berman disclaims beneficial ownership except to the extent of his
direct pecuniary interest. Mr. Berman is President of MDT Advisers,
Inc., which manages the investments of MD Co. See note (1) above.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
The following information is furnished as of September 1, 1999, with
respect to Common Stock of the Corporation beneficially owned within the meaning
of Rule 13d-3 by all Directors of the Corporation and nominees, and by all
Directors and Executive Officers as a group. Unless otherwise indicated, the
individuals named held sole voting and investment power over the shares listed
below.
Name and Address Amount and Nature of Percent of
of Beneficial Owner Beneficial Ownership Class
James R. Bertelli (1)................................... 490,011 4.7%
Donald Barry (2)........................................ 19,380 *
Vincent A. Mancuso (3).................................. 10,400 *
G. Mead Wyman (4)....................................... 73,000 *
Gordon B. Baty (5)...................................... 117,316 1.1%
Albert P. Belle Isle (5)................................ 49,891 *
R. Schorr Berman (5)(6)................................. 1,939,577 18.7%
Sherman N. Mullin (7)................................... 1,250 *
Melvin Sallen (8) ...................................... 28,112 *
All Directors and Executive Officers
As a Group (9 persons) (9)........................... 2,728,937 26.3%
- --------------------------------------------
* Less than 1.0%.
(1) Includes options to purchase 70,211 shares exercisable within sixty
days of September 1, 1999.
(2) Includes options to purchase 8,380 shares exercisable within sixty
days of September 1, 1999.
(3) Includes options to purchase 10,400 shares exercisable within sixty
days of September 1, 1999.
(4) Includes options to purchase 1,000 shares exercisable within sixty
days of September 1, 1999.
(5) Includes options to purchase 8,891 shares exercisable within sixty
days of September 1, 1999.
(6) Includes 1,930,686 shares owned by MD Co., as to which Mr. Berman may
be deemed beneficial owner and as to which Mr. Berman disclaims
beneficial ownership except to the extent of his direct pecuniary
interest. Mr. Berman is President of MDT Advisers, Inc., which manages
the investments of MD Co. See footnote (1) in "Principal Holders of
Voting Securities" above.
(7) Includes options to purchase 19,062 shares exercisable within sixty
days of September 1, 1999.
(8) Includes options to purchase 7,062 shares exercisable within sixty days
of September 1, 1999 and 2,800 shares owned by the Lois S. Sallen
Trust, of which Mr. Sallen is a co-trustee and beneficiary.
(9) Includes 142,788 shares which certain Directors and Executive Officers
have the right to acquire upon the exercise of outstanding options,
exercisable presently or within sixty days.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in any of the Corporation's
previous filings under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that might incorporate future filings,
including this Proxy Statement, in whole or in part, the following report and
the Performance Graph on page 19 shall not be incorporated by reference into any
such filing.
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The Compensation Committee (the "Committee") of the Board of Directors
has furnished the following report on executive compensation.
The Committee administers the Corporation's stock option plans, makes
annual recommendations to the full Board of Directors regarding the chief
executive officer's salary, bonus, and equity-based compensation, and oversees
the executive compensation program for the Corporation's other employees,
including its executive officers. The Committee is composed of three independent
directors who are not employees of the Corporation.
Compensation Philosophy
The Corporation's compensation policies for executive officers are
based on the belief that the interests of executives should be closely aligned
with those of the Corporation's shareholders. The compensation policies are
designed to achieve the following objectives:
o Offer compensation opportunities that attract highly qualified
executives, reward outstanding initiative and achievement, and retain
the leadership and skills necessary to build long-term shareholder
value.
o Maintain a significant portion of executives' total compensation at
risk, tied to both the annual and long-term financial performance of
the Corporation and the creation of shareholder value.
o Further the Corporation's short and long-term strategic goals and
values by aligning compensation with business objectives and individual
performance.
Executive Compensation
Compensation of executive officers other than the chief executive
officer is determined by the chief executive officer and is subject to review by
the Committee. The Committee historically has obtained outside survey data
regarding executive and senior level compensation and provided this data to the
chief executive officer to assist him in making compensation decisions.
Compensation for executive officers is comprised of base salary, annual cash
bonuses and periodic stock option grants.
Base Salary. Annual determinations of base salaries are made based in
part on the competitive pay practices of companies in the same industry of
similar size and market capitalization, the skills, performance level, and
contribution to the business of the individual executives, and the needs of the
Corporation.
Annual Cash Incentive Awards. The Corporation's executive officers are
eligible to receive annual cash bonus awards designed to motivate executives to
attain short-term and longer-term corporate and individual management goals.
Award levels vary depending upon the achievement of performance criteria
established by the chief executive officer. The bonus criteria for each
executive officer are tailored to the achievement of financial and operational
goals specifically developed for that officer's area or responsibility, as well
as overall corporate performance and the attainment of other individual
objectives. Consequently, there is a direct link between the compensation of the
executive officers and the Corporation's performance.
Long-Term Incentives. The Committee believes that stock options are an
excellent vehicle for compensating its officers and employees. The Corporation
provides long-term incentives through its stock option plans, a purpose of which
is to create a direct link between executive compensation and increases in
shareholder value. Stock options are granted at fair market value and vest in
installments, generally over five years. When determining option awards for an
executive officer, the Committee considers the executive's current contribution
to Corporation performance, the anticipated contribution to meeting the
Corporation's long-term strategic performance goals, and industry practices and
norms. Long-term incentives granted in prior years and existing levels of stock
ownership are also taken into consideration. Because the receipt of value by an
executive officer under a stock option is dependent upon an increase in the
price of the Corporation's Common Stock, this portion of the executive's
compensation is directly aligned with an increase in shareholder value.
Chief Executive Compensation
The chief executive officer's compensation is comprised of base salary,
annual cash incentive awards and stock option grants.
In determining the base salary paid to Mr. Bertelli for the year ended
June 30, 1999, the Committee considered his level of responsibility, salary
increases awarded to him in the past, his experience, his potential, and
compensation programs of other companies of similar size and characteristics.
Annual cash bonuses and stock option grants to Mr. Bertelli are based
on the attainment of individual and corporate performance targets established at
the beginning of the fiscal year. The annual cash bonus and option grants to Mr.
Bertelli for the fiscal year ended June 30, 1999 reflect the achievement of
predetermined targets based on the Corporation's revenue, pre-tax income, and
certain non-financial goals.
Mr. Bertelli's base compensation increased 10%, from $275,000 during
the fiscal year ended June 30, 1998 to $302,500 during the fiscal year ended
June 30, 1999. Mr. Bertelli's cash bonus of $136,730 and grant of options to
purchase 15,052 shares of common stock in respect of the fiscal year ended June
30, 1999, were based upon achievement of a significant portion of the
pre-determined targets described above. Mr. Bertelli's cash bonus and stock
option grant reflect increases in the Corporation's revenues and pre-tax profits
of 25% and 42% respectively, from fiscal 1998 to fiscal 1999.
In 1993, the Internal Revenue Code was amended to limit the deduction a
public company is permitted for compensation paid in 1994 and thereafter to the
chief executive officer and to the four most highly compensated executive
officers, other than the chief executive officer. Generally, amounts paid in
excess of $1,000,000 to a covered executive, other than performance-based
compensation, cannot be deducted. In order to qualify as performance-based
compensation under the new tax law, certain requirements must be met, including
approval of the performance measures by the stockholders. The Committee intends
to consider ways to maximize deductibility of executive compensation, while
retaining the discretion the Committee considers appropriate to compensate
executive officers at levels commensurate with their responsibilities and
achievements.
The foregoing report has been approved by all members of the Committee.
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE
Melvin J. Sallen, Chairman
R. Schorr Berman
Sherman Mullin
PERFORMANCE GRAPH
Set forth below is a line graph comparing the cumulative total
stockholder return of the Corporation's Common Stock against the cumulative
total return of the MS Group 810 Diversified Computer Systems Index (consisting
of 14 companies) and the NASDAQ Market Index for the period 1/31/98 through
6/30/99. The graph and table assume that $100 was invested on 1/31/98 in each of
the Corporation's Common Stock, the MG Group 810 Diversified Computer Systems
Index, and the NASDAQ Market Index and that all dividends were reinvested. This
data was furnished by Media General Financial Services, Richmond, Virginia.
[INSERT GRAPH]
COMPANY/ 1/31/98 3/31/98 6/30/98 9/30/98 12/31/98 3/31/99 6/30/99
INDEX/MARKET
Mercury Computer 100.00 164.29 138.10 148.81 267.86 171.43 307.14
Systems, Inc.
MG Group Index 100.00 103.25 108.24 111.72 158.92 164.34 229.07
NASDAQ Market Index 100.00 112.72 115.63 104.22 135.48 151.36 164.70
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
Name Age Position
James R. Bertelli 59 President, Chief Executive Officer, Director and
Co-founder
G. Mead Wyman 59 Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and
Treasurer
Donald Barry 54 Vice President and Director of Medical Business Group
Vincent A. Mancuso 52 Vice President and Director of Government Electronics
Group
Mr. Bertelli co-founded the Corporation in 1981, and has served as the
Corporation's President, Chief Executive Officer and a Director since that time.
For further information, see "Election of Directors."
Mr. Wyman has been Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and
Treasurer of the Corporation since September 1998. From November 1996 until
September 1998, he served as Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and
Treasurer. Prior to joining Mercury, Mr. Wyman was Chief Financial Officer at
Dataware Technologies, Inc., a software design firm, from 1992 to 1996.
Previously, he was a general partner at Hambrecht and Quist Venture Partners,
and was the first Chief Financial Officer at Lotus Development Corporation. Mr.
Wyman also has held senior financial management positions at Prime Computer Inc.
and Millipore Corporation.
Dr. Barry has been Vice President and Director of Medical Business Group of
the Corporation since 1992. Prior to that he served as General Manager at Picker
International, Inc., Chief Operating Officer at ESA, Inc., and Director of
International Marketing at American Motors Corp.
Mr. Mancuso joined the Corporation in January 1997 as Vice President and
Director of Government Electronics Group. Before joining Mercury, Mr. Mancuso
was Director of Federal Sales at Siemens Pyramid Information Systems, Inc. from
1995 to 1996. From 1993 to 1995, he was Vice President of consulting at Federal
Sources, Inc., an information services company. From 1991 to 1992, he was Vice
President and General Manager at Government Technology Services, Inc., Advanced
Systems Division. Mr. Mancuso served nineteen years at Hewlett Packard in
various sales and marketing positions.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The following table sets forth all compensation awarded to, earned by
or paid to the Corporation's Chief Executive Officer and each of the
Corporation's three other most highly compensated executive officers (the "Named
Executive Officers") for the Corporation's three most recent fiscal years ended
June 30, 1999.
Summary Compensation Table
Long-Term
Compensation
Securities
Annual Compensation Underlying
Other Annual Options/ All Other
Name and Principal Position Year Salary ($) Bonus ($) Compensation ($) SARs (#) Compensation
James R. Bertelli, President
and CEO............. 1999 $302,500 $136,730 $6,000 (1) 15,052 $23,537(4)
1998 $275,000 $116,600 $6,000 (1) 53,601 $28,194(2)
1997 $260,000 $112,300 $6,000 (1) 22,290 $32,869(3)
G. Mead Wyman, Senior Vice
President, Treasurer and CFO (5).. 1999 $185,000 $ 41,847 ----- 5,000 $14,895(13)
1998 $175,000 $ 50,620 ----- ----- $ 4,652(6)
1997 $100,000 $ 56,434 ----- 80,000 $ 3,529(7)
Donald Barry, Vice President
and Director of Medical
Business Group................. 1999 $165,000 $ 75,493 ----- 7,500 $ 4,393(14)
1998 $120,000 $ 65,090 ----- ----- $ 3,200(8)
1997 $111,000 $ 64,020 ----- 2,000 $ 2,160(9)
Vincent A. Mancuso, Vice President
and Director of Government
Electronics Group (10).......... 1999 $170,000 $125,000 ----- 2,000 $ 4,200(15)
1998 $120,000 $147,000 ----- ----- $ 3,200 (11)
1997 $ 55,000 $ 75,000 ----- 25,000 $ 1,400 (12)
- --------------------------------
(1) Represents automobile allowance.
(2) Represents $3,200 matching contribution by the Corporation into Mr.
Bertelli's 401(k) plan for the benefit of Mr. Bertelli, and a premium
of $24,994 paid by the Corporation for a split dollar life insurance
policy for the benefit of Mr. Bertelli.
(3) Represents $3,150 matching contribution by the Corporation into Mr.
Bertelli's 401(k) plan for the benefit of Mr. Bertelli, and a premium
of $29,719 paid by the Corporation for a split dollar life insurance
policy for the benefit of Mr. Bertelli.
(4) Represents $3,200 matching contribution by the Corporation into Mr.
Bertelli's 401(k) plan for the benefit of Mr. Bertelli, and a premium
of $20,337 paid by the Corporation for a split dollar life insurance
policy for the benefit of Mr. Bertelli.
(5) 1997 salary was earned from November 1996, when the Corporation hired
Mr. Wyman, through June 30, 1997.
(6) Represents $3,200 matching contribution by the Corporation into Mr.
Wyman's 401(k) plan for the benefit of Mr. Wyman, and a premium of
$1,452 paid by the Corporation for a split dollar life insurance policy
for the benefit of Mr. Wyman.
(7) Represents $2,519 matching contribution by the Corporation into Mr.
Wyman's 401(k) plan for the benefit of Mr. Wyman, and a premium of
$1,010 paid by the Corporation for a split dollar life insurance policy
for the benefit of Mr. Wyman.
(8) Represents $3,200 matching contribution by the Corporation into Mr.
Barry's 401(k) plan for the benefit of Mr. Barry.
(9) Represents $2,160 matching contribution by the Corporation into Mr.
Barry's 401(k) plan for the benefit of Mr. Barry.
(10) 1997 salary was earned from January 1997, when the Corporation hired
Mr. Mancuso, through June 30, 1997.
(11) Represents $3,200 matching contribution by the Corporation into Mr.
Mancuso's 401(k) plan for the benefit of Mr. Mancuso.
(12) Represents $1,400 matching contribution by the Corporation into Mr.
Mancuso's 401(k) plan for the benefit of Mr. Mancuso.
(13) Represents $3,200 matching contribution by the Corporation into Mr.
Wyman's 401(k) plan for the benefit of Mr. Wyman, and a premium of
$11,695 paid by the Corporation for a split dollar life insurance
policy for the benefit of Mr. Wyman.
(14) Represents $3,200 matching contribution by the Corporation into Mr.
Barry's 401(k) plan for the benefit of Mr. Barry, and a premium of
$1,193 paid by the Corporation for a split dollar life insurance policy
for the benefit of Mr. Barry.
(15) Represents $3,200 matching contribution by the Corporation into Mr.
Mancuso's 401(k) plan for the benefit of Mr. Mancuso, and a premium of
$1,020 paid by the Corporation for a split dollar life insurance policy
for the benefit of Mr. Mancuso.
STOCK OPTION AND STOCK PURCHASE PLANS
The Corporation has in effect its 1998 Stock Option Plan for
Non-Employee Directors, 1997 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, 1997 Stock Option
Plan, 1993 Stock Option Plan for Non-Employee Directors, 1991 Stock Option Plan,
and 1982 Stock Option Plan (together, the "Stock Option and Purchase Plans").
The Corporation is no longer permitted to grant options under either its 1982
Stock Option Plan or its 1993 Stock Option Plan for Non-Employee Directors;
however, certain persons continue to hold options to purchase shares of common
stock granted under such plans. The Compensation Committee of the Board of
Directors is responsible for the administration and interpretation of the Stock
Option and Purchase Plans. Copies of the Stock Option and Purchase Plans are
available from the Clerk of the Corporation upon request.
Option Grants, Exercises and Holdings
Option Grants. The following table sets forth certain information
regarding options granted to the Named Executive Officers during the year ended
June 30, 1999. The Corporation did not issue any stock appreciation rights
("SARs") during the three most recent fiscal years ended June 30, 1999.
Option/SAR Grants in Last Fiscal Year
Individual Grants
Number of Percent of Total Potential Realizable
Securities Option/SARs Value at Assumed
Underlying Granted to Exercise Annual Rates of Stock Price
Option/SARs Employees in Price Appreciation for Option Term (1)
Name Granted (#) Fiscal Year (%) ($/share) Date 5% ($) 10% ($)
---- ----------- --------------- --------- ---- ------ -------
James R. Bertelli (2) 14,120 2.2% $13.00 9/14/98 115,440 292,547
G. Mead Wyman(3) 5,000 .8% $15.25 9/28/98 47,953 121,523
Donald Barry(4) 7,500 1.2% $15.25 9/28/98 71,930 182,284
Vincent A. Mancuso(5) 2,000 .3% $15.25 8/28/98 19,181 48,609
(1) In accordance with the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission
(the "Commission"), shown are the gains or "option spreads" that would
exist for the respective options granted. These gains are based on the
assumed rates of annual compound stock price appreciation of 5% and 10%
from the date the option was granted over the full option term. These
assumed annual compound rates of stock price appreciation are mandated
by the rules of the Commission and do not represent the Corporation's
estimate or projection of future Common Stock prices.
(2) Options to purchase 7,060 shares were exercisable at June 30, 1999. The
remaining options to purchase 7,060 shares vest on September 14, 1999.
(3) No options were exercisable at June 30, 1999. The remaining options
vest as to 5,000 shares in increments of 1,000 shares on September 28
in each of 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, and 2003 so long as Mr. Wyman's
employment with the Corporation has not been terminated.
(4) No options were exercisable at June 30, 1999. The remaining options
vest as to 7,500 shares in increments of 1,500 shares on September 28
in each of 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2003 so long as Mr.
Barry's employment with the Corporation has not been terminated.
(5) No options were exercisable at June 30, 1999. The remaining options
vest as to 2,000 shares in increments of 400 shares on September 28 in
each of 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2003 so long as Mr. Mancuso's
employment with the Corporation has not been terminated.
Aggregated Option Exercises in Last
Fiscal Year and 6/30/99 Option Values
The following table provides information on option exercises and on the
value of the named Executive Officers' unexercised options at June 30, 1999.
Number of Securities Value of Unexercised
Shares Underlying Unexercised In-the-Money Options
Acquired on Value Options at Fiscal Year-End at Fiscal Year-End ($)(1)
Name Exercise (#) Realized ($)(2) Exercisable Unexercisable Exercisable Unexercisable
James R. Bertelli..... 0 0 51,901 43,610 $1,357,663 $1,033,443
G. Mead Wyman......... 28,000 413,000 0 44,000 0 1,243,000
Donald Barry.......... 1,000 10,250 13,260 15,240 369,095 316,155
Vincent A. Mancuso.... 0 0 10,000 17,000 282,500 457,750
(1) Value of unexercised in-the-money stock options represents the
difference between the exercise prices of the stock options and the
closing price of the Corporation's Common Stock on The Nasdaq National
Market on June 30, 1999.
(2) Value realized on exercise represents the difference between the
exercise prices of stock options exercised and the trading price of the
Corporation's Common Stock on The Nasdaq National Market on the date of
such exercise.
OTHER MATTERS
Independent Public Accountants. The Board of Directors has appointed
PriceWaterhouseCoopers LLP as independent auditors to examine the consolidated
financial statements of the Corporation and its subsidiaries for the fiscal year
ended June 30, 2000.
A representative of PriceWaterhouseCoopers LLP is expected to be
present at the Meeting and will have the opportunity to make a statement if he
or she so desires and to respond to appropriate questions. The engagement of
PriceWaterhouseCoopers LLP was approved by the Board of Directors at the
recommendation of the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.
Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance. Section 16(a)
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 requires the Corporation's officers and
Directors and persons beneficially owning more than 10% of the outstanding
Common Stock of the Corporation to file reports of beneficial ownership and
changes in beneficial ownership with the Securities and Exchange Commission
("SEC"). Officers, Directors, and greater than 10% beneficial owners of Common
Stock are required by SEC regulation to furnish the Corporation with copies of
all Section 16(a) forms they file.
Based solely on copies of such forms furnished as provided above, or
written representations that no Forms 5 were required, the Corporation believes
that during the fiscal year ended June 30, 1999, all Section 16(a) filing
requirements applicable to its officers, Directors, and beneficial owners of
greater than 10% of its Common Stock were complied with, except that: (i)
through inadvertence, two reports relating in the aggregate to eight
transactions by James R. Bertelli were not reported on a timely basis, and (ii)
through inadvertence, one report relating to one transaction by Vincent A.
Mancuso was not reported on a timely basis.
Deadlines for Submission of Stockholder Proposals. Under regulations
adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, any proposal submitted for
inclusion in the Corporation's Proxy Statement relating to the Annual Meeting of
Stockholders to be held in 2000 must be received at the Corporation's principal
executive offices in Chelmsford, Massachusetts on or before June 17, 2000.
Receipt by the Corporation of any such proposal from a qualified stockholder in
a timely manner will not ensure its inclusion in the proxy material because
there are other requirements in the proxy rules for such inclusion. Stockholders
interested in submitting such a proposal are advised to contact knowledgeable
counsel with regards to the detailed requirements of such securities rules. In
accordance with the provisions of Rule 14a-4(c) promulgated under the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, if the Corporation does not receive notice of a
stockholder proposal to be raised at its 2000 Annual Meeting of Stockholders on
or before June 17, 2000, then in such event, the proxies shall be allowed to use
their discretionary voting authority when the proposal is raised at the 2000
Annual Meeting of Stockholders.
In addition to the Securities and Exchange Commission requirements
regarding stockholder proposals, the Corporation's By-Laws contain provisions
regarding matters to be brought before stockholder meetings. If stockholder
proposals, including proposals regarding the election of Director, are to be
considered at the 2000 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, notice of them whether or
not they are included in the Corporation's proxy statement and form of proxy,
must be given by personal delivery or by United States mail, postage prepaid, to
the Clerk of the Corporation on or before August 5, 2000.
Other Matters. Management knows of no matters which may properly be and
are likely to be brought before the meeting other than the matters discussed
herein. However, if any other matters properly come before the meeting, the
persons named in the enclosed proxy will vote in accordance with their best
judgment.
The cost of this solicitation will be borne by the Corporation. It is
expected that the solicitation will be made primarily by mail, but regular
employees or representatives of the Corporation (none of whom will receive any
extra compensation for their activities) may also solicit proxies by telephone,
telegraph and in person and arrange for brokerage houses and other custodians,
nominees and fiduciaries to send proxies and proxy material to their principals
at the expense of the Corporation.
10-K REPORT. THE CORPORATION WILL PROVIDE EACH BENEFICIAL OWNER OF ITS
SECURITIES WITH A COPY OF AN ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K, INCLUDING THE FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS AND SCHEDULES THERETO, REQUIRED TO BE FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION FOR THE CORPORATION'S MOST RECENT FISCAL YEAR, WITHOUT
CHARGE, UPON RECEIPT OF A WRITTEN REQUEST FROM SUCH PERSON. SUCH REQUEST SHOULD
BE SENT TO MR. G. MEAD WYMAN, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER, MERCURY COMPUTER SYSTEMS,
INC., 199 RIVERNECK ROAD, CHELMSFORD, MASSACHUSETTS 01824.
VOTING PROXIES
The Board of Directors recommends an affirmative vote on all proposals
specified. Proxies will be voted as specified. If signed proxies are returned
without specifying an affirmative or negative vote on any proposal, the shares
represented by such proxies will be voted in favor of the Board of Directors'
recommendations.
By order of the Board of Directors
ANTHONY J. MEDAGLIA, JR., Clerk
Chelmsford, Massachusetts
October 15, 1999
MERCURY COMPUTER SYSTEMS, INC.
SPECIAL MEETING IN LIEU OF
ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
NOVEMBER 18, 1999
The undersigned hereby appoints James R. Bertelli and Anthony J. Medaglia, Jr.,
and each of them, with full power of substitution, proxies to represent the
undersigned at the Special Meeting in Lieu of the 1999 Annual Meeting of
Stockholders of Mercury Computer Systems, Inc. to be held on November 18, 1999
at 10:00 a.m. at the offices of Hutchins, Wheeler & Dittmar, A Professional
Corporation, 101 Federal Street, Suite 3101, Boston, Massachusetts, and at any
adjournment or adjournments thereof, to vote in the name and place of the
undersigned, with all powers which the undersigned would possess if personally
present, upon such business as may properly come before the meeting including
the proposals as set forth on the reverse side of this Proxy Card.
This proxy is solicited on behalf of the Board of Directors. The Board
recommends an affirmative vote on all proposals specified. Shares will be voted
as specified. If no specification is made, the shares represented will be voted
in favor of the proposals.
PLEASE VOTE, DATE, AND SIGN THIS PROXY IN THE SPACE PROVIDED AND RETURN IN THE
ENCLOSED ENVELOPE, WHETHER OR NOT YOU EXPECT TO ATTEND THE MEETING IN PERSON.
Please sign exactly as your name(s) appear(s) on the Proxy. When shares are held
by joint tenants, both should sign. When signing as attorney, executor,
administrator, trustee or guardian, please give full title as such. If a
corporation, please sign in full corporate name by President or other authorized
officer. If a partnership, please sign in partnership name by authorized person.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HAS YOUR ADDRESS CHANGED? DO YOU HAVE ANY COMMENTS?
{Top half of Proxy Card}
[ ] PLEASE MARK VOTES AS IN THIS EXAMPLE.
MERCURY COMPUTER SYSTEMS, INC.
Mark box at right if you plan to attend the Meeting. [ ]
Mark box at right if an address change or comment has [ ] been noted on the
reverse side of this card.
RECORD DATE SHARES: _____________
1. Election of Directors:
FOR WITHHELD
Dr. Gordon Baty [ ] [ ]
FOR WITHHELD
Mr. Sherman Mullin [ ] [ ]
2. Approval of the amendment to the Mercury Computer Systems, Inc.
Articles of Organization increasing the number of authorized shares of Common
Stock.
FOR AGAINST ABSTAIN
[ ] [ ] [ ]
3. Authorization of increase in the number of shares of Common Stock
issuable pursuant to the Mercury Computer Systems, Inc. 1997 Stock Option Plan.
FOR AGAINST ABSTAIN
[ ] [ ] [ ]
4. In their discretion, the proxies are authorized to vote upon such other
business as may properly come before the Meeting.
PLEASE BE SURE TO DATE AND SIGN THIS PROXY.
DATE: ____________________________________
SHAREHOLDER SIGN HERE: ____________________________________
CO-OWNER SIGN HERE: _____________________________________
DETACH CARD DETACH CARD DETACH CARD
{Bottom half of Proxy Card}
MERCURY COMPUTER SYSTEMS, INC.
Dear Stockholder:
Please take note of the important information enclosed with this Proxy Card.
There are a number of issues related to the management of your company that
require your immediate attention and approval. These are discussed in detail in
the enclosed proxy materials.
Your vote counts, and you are strongly encouraged to exercise your right to vote
your shares.
Please mark the boxes on this Proxy Card to indicate how your shares will be
voted. Then sign the card, detach it, and return your proxy vote in the enclosed
postage paid envelope.
Your vote must be received prior to the Special Meeting of Stockholders on
November 18, 1999.
Thank you in advance for your prompt consideration of these matters.
Sincerely,
Mercury Computer Systems, Inc.