UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

SCHEDULE 14A

Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the

Securities Exchange Act of 1934

(Amendment No.    )

 

 

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BURLINGTON STORES, INC.

(Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter)

 

(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant)

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LOGOLOGO

2020 Proxy Statement


LOGO

Burlington Stores, Inc.

2006 Route 130 North

Burlington, New Jersey 08016

March 31, 2017April 3, 2020

LOGO

Dear Burlington Stockholder:

You are cordially invited to attend the 20172020 Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Burlington Stores, Inc., which will be held at the company’s corporate offices of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP located at 500 Boylston Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02116The Kingsbury Building, 2006 Route 130 North, Burlington, New Jersey 08016 on May 17, 201720, 2020 at 4:8:00 p.m. Easterna.m.Eastern Time. All holders of shares of our outstanding common stock as of the close of business on March 23, 201726, 2020 are entitled to vote at the meeting. Details of the business to be conducted at the meeting are given in the noticeNotice of annual meeting2020 Annual Meeting of stockholdersStockholders and the proxy statement,Proxy Statement, which are included on the following pages.

Your vote is important. Whether or not you plan to attend the annual meeting, please vote as soon as possible. As an alternative to voting in person at the annual meeting, you may vote via the internet, by telephone or, if you received a paper proxy card in the mail, by mailing the completed proxy card. Voting by any of these methods will ensure you have a say on the important issues to be voted on at the annual meeting.

We appreciate your support of Burlington Stores, Inc.

LOGO

Michael O’Sullivan

Chief Executive Officer


BURLINGTON STORES, INC.

NOTICE OF 2020 ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

To Be Held On May 20, 2020

  Date:

  May 20, 2020

  Time:

8:00 a.m. (Eastern Time)

  Location:

  Burlington Stores, Inc.

  The Kingsbury Building

  2006 Route 130 North

  Burlington, New Jersey 08016*

  Record Date:

  March 26, 2020

Items of Business

1.

To elect the three directors nominated by Burlington Stores, Inc.’s Board of Directors and named in the accompanying Proxy Statement;

2.

To ratify the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as Burlington Stores, Inc.’s independent registered certified public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending January 30, 2021;

3.

To obtainnon-binding advisory approval of the compensation of Burlington Stores, Inc.’s named executive officers(“Say-on-Pay”);

4.

To obtainnon-binding advisory approval of the frequency of holding futureSay-On-Pay votes; and

5.

To consider any other business properly brought before the meeting.

The Board of Directors of Burlington Stores, Inc. unanimously recommends a vote FOR each director nominee named in Proposal 1; FOR Proposals 2 and 3; and, with respect to Proposal 4, for holding futureSay-On-Pay votes every ONE YEAR.

Whether or not you plan to attend the annual meeting, please vote as soon as possible. As an alternative to voting in person at the annual meeting, you may vote via the Internet, by telephone or, if you receive a paper proxy card in the mail, by mailing the completed proxy card. Voting by any of these methods will ensure your representation at the annual meeting.

We appreciate your support of Burlington Stores.

LOGO

Thomas A. Kingsbury

Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer


BURLINGTON STORES, INC.

2006 Route 130 North

Burlington, New Jersey 08016

NOTICE OF 2017 ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

To Be Held On May 17, 2017

The 2017 Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Burlington Stores, Inc. will be held at the offices of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP located at 500 Boylston Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02116 on May 17, 2017 at 4:00p.m. Eastern Time, for the following purposes:

1.To elect three directors nominated by Burlington Stores, Inc.’s Board of Directors;

2.To ratify the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as Burlington Stores, Inc.’s independent registered certified public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending February 3, 2018;

3.To obtainnon-binding advisory approval of the compensation of Burlington Stores, Inc.’s named executive officers;

4.To approve the Burlington Stores, Inc. 2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan (as amended and restated); and

5.To consider any other business properly brought before the meeting.

The foregoing items of business are more fully described in the accompanying proxy statement. The record date for determining those stockholders who will be entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the annual meeting and at any adjournments or postponements thereof is March 23, 2017.

Whether or not you plan to attend the annual meeting, please vote as soon as possible. As an alternative to voting in person at the annual meeting, you may vote via the Internet,internet, by telephone or, if you receive a paper proxy card in the mail, by mailing a completed proxy card. For detailed information regarding voting instructions, please refer to the question entitled “How do I vote?” on page 28 of the proxy statement. You may revoke a previously delivered proxy at any time prior to the annual meeting by following the instructions in the proxy statement. If you decide to attend the annual meeting and wish to change your proxy vote, you may do so automatically by voting in person at the annual meeting.Proxy Statement.

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

 

LOGOLOGO

Janet Dhillon, ExecutiveKaren Leu, Senior Vice President, General

Counsel and Corporate Secretary

Burlington, New Jersey

March 31, 2017April 3, 2020

* We are actively monitoring the public health and travel safety concerns relating to the evolvingCOVID-19 situation and the advisories or mandates that federal, state and local governments, and related agencies, may issue. In the event we determine that it is not possible or advisable to hold our annual meeting as currently planned, we will publicly announce alternative arrangements for the meeting as promptly as practicable, which may include holding the meeting in a different location or solely by means of remote communication (i.e., a virtual-only annual meeting). If you are planning to attend our annual meeting, please check the Investor Relations section of our corporate website, which can be accessed at www.burlingtoninvestors.com, prior to the meeting date for any updated information.

Important notice regarding the availability of proxy materials for the 2017

2020 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 17, 2017:20, 2020:

This Notice of Annual Meeting, the accompanying Proxy Statement, and our Annual Report onForm 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 28, 2017February 1, 2020 are all available at http://www.astproxyportal.com/ast/18550/

YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT

PLEASE VOTE BY INTERNET OR TELEPHONE OR

SIGN, DATE, & RETURN YOUR PROXY CARD OR

VOTE BY TELEPHONE OR INTERNET


TABLE OF CONTENTS

 Page
No.
    

Table of Contents

2017 PROXY STATEMENT SUMMARY

   1 

ABOUT THE ANNUAL MEETING

   17 

PROPOSAL NO. 1—ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

   511 

Overview of Our Board Structure

   511 

Nominees for Election at Annual Meeting

   612 

Recommendation of the Board of Directors

   613 

Directors Continuing in Office

   714 

INFORMATION ABOUT OUR EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE COMPANY

   918 

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

   1119 

Corporate Governance Guidelines

   1119 

Voting PolicyMajority Vote Standard for Election of Directors

   1119 

Board Leadership Structure

   1120 

Board’s Role in Risk Oversight

   1220 

Strategic Planning

   1221 

Independent Directors

   1321 

Meeting Attendance

   1322 

Executive Sessions

   1322 

Communications with the Board of Directors

   1422 

Stock Ownership Guidelines

   1423 

Director Orientation

   1423 

Board and Committee Evaluations

   1423 

Selecting Nominees to the Board of Directors

   1524 

Outside Board Policy

   1625 

Director Candidates Recommended by Stockholders

   1625 

Board Refreshment

   1625 

Code of Conduct and Code of Ethics

   1726 

BOARD COMMITTEESCulture and Corporate Social Responsibility

   1827 

DIRECTOR COMPENSATIONBOARD COMMITTEES

   2028 

DIRECTOR COMPENSATION30
PROPOSAL NO. 2—RATIFICATION OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

   2332 

General

   2332 

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

   2333 

Policy on Audit CommitteePre-Approval of Audit and PermissibleNon-Audit Services of Independent Registered Certified Public Accounting Firm

   2333

Recommendation of the Board of Directors and the Audit Committee

33
AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT34
PROPOSAL NO. 3—ADVISORY VOTE ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION35

General

35 

Recommendation of the Board of Directors

   2435 

PROPOSAL NO. 3—4—ADVISORY VOTE ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATIONFREQUENCY OF FUTURESAY-ON-PAY VOTES

   2536 

General

   2536 

Recommendation of the Board of Directors

   2636 

PROPOSAL NO. 4—APPROVALOWNERSHIP OF THE BURLINGTON STORES, INC. 2013 OMNIBUS INCENTIVE PLAN (AS AMENDED AND RESTATED)SECURITIES

   27

Summary of Material Changes

27

Important Provisions

28

Approval for Purposes of Section 162(m)

29

Summary of Amended Plan Terms

29

Federal Income Tax Consequences

34

Benefits to Named Executive Officers and Others

36

Equity Compensation Plan Information

37

Recommendation of the Board of Directors

37

OWNERSHIP OF SECURITIES

38

Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance

39 

Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans

   4039 


Page
No.

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

   4140 

Compensation Discussion and Analysis

   4140 

Report of the Compensation Committee

   6160 

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation

   6261 

Compensation-Related Risk

   61

Fiscal 2019 Summary Compensation Table

62 

Summary Compensation TableFiscal 2019 Grants of Plan-Based Awards

   63 

Grants of Plan-Based Awards

64

Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal 2019Year-End

   6766 

Fiscal 2019 Option Exercises and Stock Vested

   6869 

Pension Benefits

   6869 

Nonqualified Deferred Compensation

   6869 

Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control

   69 

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONSPay Ratio

   73 

AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORTCERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

   74

STOCKHOLDER PROPOSALS FOR 2018 ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

74

STOCKHOLDERS SHARING THE SAME ADDRESS

75

FORM10-K

75

OTHER MATTERS

75 
STOCKHOLDER PROPOSALS FOR 2021 ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS76
STOCKHOLDERS SHARING THE SAME ADDRESS76
FORM10-K77
OTHER MATTERS77

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Appendix A—Burlington Stores, Inc. 2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan (as amended and restated)2020 Proxy Statement



2017 PROXY STATEMENTProxy Statement Summary

This summary highlights information about Burlington Stores, Inc. (referred to in this Proxy Statement as “we,” “us,” “our,” “Burlington” or the “Company”), our Board of Directors (the “Board” or the “Board of Directors”) and our upcoming 2020 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “Annual Meeting”) contained elsewhere in this Proxy Statement. This summary does not contain all of the information you should consider, and you should read the entire Proxy Statement carefully before voting.

Annual Meeting Information

  Date and Time:

Wednesday, May 20, 2020
8:00 a.m. Eastern Time

  Location:

Burlington Stores, Inc.

The Kingsbury Building

2006 Route 130 North

Burlington, New Jersey 08016*

  Record Date:

March 26, 2020

Voting Matters and Board Recommendations

The Board of Directors recommends that you vote as follows on each proposal:

  Voting MatterBoard’s RecommendationPage
Reference  

Proposal 1:

Election of Three Directors Nominated by the Board and Named in this Proxy StatementFOR each director nominee11

Proposal 2:

Ratification of Appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as the Company’s Independent Registered Certified Public Accounting Firm for the fiscal year ending January 30, 2021FOR32

Proposal 3:

Non-Binding Advisory Approval of the Compensation of the Company’s Named Executive Officers(“Say-On-Pay”)FOR35

Proposal 4:

Non-Binding Advisory Approval of the Frequency of Future“Say-On-Pay” VotesONE YEAR36
*

We are actively monitoring the public health and travel safety concerns relating to the evolvingCOVID-19 situation and the advisories or mandates that federal, state and local governments, and related agencies, may issue. In the event we determine that it is not possible or advisable to hold our annual meeting as currently planned, we will publicly announce alternative arrangements for the meeting as promptly as practicable, which may include holding the meeting in a different location or solely by means of remote communication (i.e., a virtual-only annual meeting). If you are planning to attend our annual meeting, please check the Investor Relations section of our corporate website, which can be accessed at www.burlingtoninvestors.com, prior to the meeting date for any updated information.



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Burlington Stores, Inc. 2020 Proxy Statement | 1


PROXY STATEMENT SUMMARY

Company Overview

Headquartered in New Jersey, we are a nationally recognizedoff-price retailer with revenues of $7.3 billion for the fiscal year ended February 1, 2020 (“fiscal 2019”). We are a Fortune 500 company and our common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “BURL.” We operated 727 stores as of the end of fiscal 2019 in 45 states and Puerto Rico, principally under the name Burlington Stores. Our stores offer an extensive selection ofin-season, fashion-focused merchandise at up to 60% off other retailers’ prices, including women’sready-to-wear apparel, menswear, youth apparel, baby, beauty, footwear, accessories, home, toys, gifts and coats. As we

continue to expand, we remain focused on the implementation of our three long-term growth strategies under the oversight of our Board of Directors:

Driving Comparable Store Sales Growth

Expanding and Enhancing Our Retail Store Base

Enhancing Operating Margins

These strategies, which are more fully discussed in our Annual Report on Form10-K for Fiscal 2019 (the “Fiscal 201910-K”) are designed to drive long-term value for our stockholders and maintain a sustainable competitive advantage.

Select Fiscal 2019 Company Performance Highlights

Strong execution of our long-term growth strategies resulted in solid performance for fiscal 2019. Highlights of fiscal 2019 performance compared with our fiscal year ended February 2, 2019 (“fiscal 2018”) include the following:

We generated total revenues of $7,286.4 million compared with $6,668.5 million in fiscal 2018

Net sales improved $618.2 million to $7,261.2 million (inclusive of a 2.7% comparable store sales increase)

We generated net income of $465.1 million compared with $414.7 million in fiscal 2018, an increase of $50.4 million, and earnings per share amounted to $6.91 per share compared with $6.04 per share in fiscal 2018

Adjusted Net Income was $7.41 per share compared with $6.44 per share in fiscal 2018

Adjusted EBITDA improved $91.7 million to $883.9 million
Adjusted EBIT improved $73.1 million to $673.6 million

We opened 52 net new stores

As a result of our cash flow from operations and disciplined capital allocation, we were also able to return value to our stockholders during fiscal 2019 through $299.9 million in share repurchases.

Information regarding how we calculate Adjusted Net Income (which is divided by our fully diluted weighted average shares outstanding for fiscal 2019 of 67,293 thousand to arrive at Adjusted Net Income per share), Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBIT, and a reconciliation of thosenon-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure, is contained in the section of our Fiscal 201910-K entitled “Key Performance Measures” beginning on page 32. As presented, thesenon-GAAP financial measures exclude the impact of $4.2 million in management transition costs incurred during the third and fourth quarters of Fiscal 2019, or $0.06 per share.



2 | Burlington Stores, Inc. 2020 Proxy Statement

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PROXY STATEMENT SUMMARY

Governance Highlights

Our Board believes that good corporate governance accompanies and greatly aids our long-term business success. The Corporate Governance section beginning on page 19 describes our corporate governance framework and commitment, which includes the following highlights:

Independent Board Chair

8 out of 9 directors are independent

3 out of 9 directors are female

Each director attended at least 85% of the meetings of the Board and of the committees of which such director was a member during fiscal 2019.

67% of the Board has served for less than 6 years
Majority voting and director resignation policy for directors in uncontested elections

Majority of director compensation paid in stock

Pay-for-performance philosophy

Annual Board, director and committee self-evaluations

No unequal voting rights

Robust CEO, executive and non-employee director stock ownership guidelines

Board of Directors

The following table provides summary information about our directors. Additional information about each director’s background and experience can be found beginning on page 12.

          Committee
Memberships
 (1)
  Name Primary or Former Occupation Age Director
Since
 Independent AC CC NCGC

John J. Mahoney

 

Retired Vice Chairman, Staples, Inc.

Chairman of the Board

 68 2013    

Ted English

 Executive Chairman, Bob’s Discount Furniture 66 2016    

Jordan Hitch

 Former Managing Director, Bain Capital 53 2006   C 

William P. McNamara

 Retired President, Macy’s Reinvent Strategies
Macy’s, Inc.
 69 2014    

Michael O’Sullivan

 

Chief Executive Officer,

Burlington Stores, Inc.

 56 2019    

Jessica Rodriguez

 Chief Marketing Officer and President of Entertainment of UCI Networks 47 2018    

Laura J. Sen

 FormerNon-Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, BJ’s Wholesale Club, Inc. 63 2018    

Paul J. Sullivan

 Retired Partner, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP 72 2012  C  

Mary Ann Tocio

 Retired President and Chief Operating Officer, Bright Horizons Family Solutions, Inc. 71 2015     C
(1)

NCGC = Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee; CC = Compensation Committee; AC = Audit Committee; C= Chair



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Burlington Stores, Inc. 2020 Proxy Statement | 3


PROXY STATEMENT SUMMARY

Board Composition Highlights

The Board has taken a thoughtful and deliberate approach to Board composition to ensure that our directors have the backgrounds, talents, skills, character, diversity, and expertise sufficient to provide sound and prudent guidance with respect to our operations and interests. Some of the key features of our Board composition are as follows:

LOGO



4 | Burlington Stores, Inc. 2020 Proxy Statement

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PROXY STATEMENT SUMMARY

Executive Compensation Program Highlights

Our objective is to have an executive compensation program that will allow us to attract and retain executive officers of a caliber and level of experience necessary to effectively manage our business and to motivate those executive officers to drive stockholder value, consistent with our Core Values as described on page 26.

In fiscal 2019, approximately 93% of the target annual compensation for Mr. O’Sullivan, our Chief Executive Officer (the “CEO”) as of February 1, 2020, and approximately 75% of the average target annual compensation for our other continuing named executive officers (“NEOs”), was“at-risk.”

Significant features of our executive compensation program include:

Alignment of pay with Company financial performance

Fifty percent of annual long-term incentive grant to NEOs is in the form of a three-year performance stock unit (“PSU”) award

Balance short-term and long-term incentives

Annual stockholdersay-on-pay votes

Compensation Committee uses independent consultant

Annual compensation risk assessment

Independent Compensation Committee

Stock ownership guidelines

Limits on annual incentive award and PSU award payments

Compensation recoupment policy

Regular review of share utilization
×No excise taxgross-ups

×No stock options granted below fair market value

×No option repricing without stockholder approval

×No hedging or pledging of Company stock by executive officers or directors

×No automatic “single-trigger” change in control

×No pension plans or SERPs

×No guaranteed bonuses or salary increases

×No change in control severance arrangements

×No evergreen provision or reload options in 2013 equity incentive plan

Please see the Compensation Discussion and Analysis beginning on page 40 for an overview of our

executive compensation program together with a description of the material factors underlying the decisions that resulted in the fiscal 2019 compensation provided to the NEOs identified below.

  Named Executive Officers

Michael O’Sullivan

Chief Executive Officer

Thomas A. Kingsbury

Former Executive Chairman

John Crimmins

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Marc Katz

Former Chief Financial Officer/Principal

Jennifer Vecchio

President and Chief Merchandising Officer

Fred Hand

Chief Customer Officer/Principal

Joyce Manning Magrini

Executive Vice President – Human Resources

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Burlington Stores, Inc. 2020 Proxy Statement | 5


PROXY STATEMENT SUMMARY

Management Succession

On April 23, 2019, we announced that our Board appointed Michael O’Sullivan as our new Chief Executive Officer effective September 16, 2019. The Board believed that the hiring of Mr. O’Sullivan was critical to help continue the Company’s outstanding performance and stock price appreciation that we have experienced since our IPO in 2013 and that, in order to successfully attract Mr. O’Sullivan, it was necessary to take into account the substantial equity value he was forfeiting at his prior employer. As a result, a substantial amount of Mr. O’Sullivan’s fiscal 2019 compensation is comprised of a make-whole long-term incentive grant made to compensate Mr. O’Sullivan for a significant portion of such forfeited equity value. A full discussion of Mr. O’Sullivan’s employment agreement and compensation package is discussed in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis beginning on page 40. The hiring of Mr. O’Sullivan, as well as the promotion of Jennifer Vecchio to President and Chief Merchandising Officer in April 2019, represent the culmination of our Board’s active engagement in a thoughtful and comprehensive succession planning process.


6 | Burlington Stores, Inc. 2020 Proxy Statement

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2020 Proxy Statement

This proxy statementProxy Statement and the accompanying materials are being made available to stockholders of Burlington Stores, Inc. (“Burlington,” “the Company,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) beginning on or about March 31, 2017.April 3, 2020. In this proxy statement,Proxy Statement, you will find information on the matters to be presented at the 2017 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “Annual Meeting”) and information to assist you in voting your shares.

ABOUT THE ANNUAL MEETINGAbout the Annual Meeting

Who is soliciting my vote?

The Board of Directors of Burlington Stores, Inc. (the “Board” or the “Board of Directors”) is soliciting your vote at the Annual Meeting.

What will I be voting on?

You will be voting on:

 

Election of the three directors nominated by the Board and named in this Proxy Statement (Proposal 1);

 

Ratification of the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as our independent registered certified public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending February 3, 2018January 30, 2021 (“fiscal 2020”) (Proposal 2);

 

Non-binding advisory approval of the compensation of our named executive officersNEOs(“Say-On-Pay”) (Proposal 3);

 

ApprovalNon-binding advisory approval of the Burlington Stores, Inc. 2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan (as amended and restated)frequency of futureSay-On-Pay votes (Proposal 4); and

 

Any other business that may properly come before the Annual Meeting.

What are the Board of Directors’Directors voting recommendations?

The Board recommends that you vote:

 

FOReach of the three directors nominated by the Board and named in this Proxy Statement (Proposal 1);

 

FORthe ratification of the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as our independent registered certified public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending February 3, 20182020 (Proposal 2);

 

FORthenon-binding advisory approval of the compensation of our named executive officersNEOs (Proposal 3); and

 

forFORONE YEAR as the approvalfrequency of the Burlington Stores, Inc. 2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan (as amended and restated)holding futureSay-On-Pay votes (Proposal 4).

Who is entitled to vote?

All stockholders who owned the Company’s common stock at the close of business on the record date, March 23, 2017,26, 2020, are entitled to attend and vote at the Annual Meeting.

How many votes do I have?

You will have one vote on each matter for every share of the Company’s common stock you owned on the record date. There is no cumulative voting.

How many votes can be cast by all stockholders?

Each share of the Company’s common stock is entitled to one vote. There is no cumulative voting. On the record date, the Company had 70,258,83565,748,793 shares of common stock outstanding and

entitled to vote.

How many shares must be present to hold the Annual Meeting?

A majority of the outstanding shares of the Company’s common stock must be present or represented by proxy at the Annual Meeting in order to have a quorum. If the persons present or represented by proxy at the Annual Meeting constitute the holders of less than a majority of the outstanding shares of common stock as of the record date, the Annual Meeting may be adjourned to a subsequent date for the purpose of obtaining a quorum.

Shares are counted as present at the Annual Meeting if stockholders are present and vote in person or if a proxy card has been properly submitted by or on behalf of a stockholder. Abstentions and “brokernon-votes” are counted for purposes of determining the presence of a quorum. A “brokernon-vote” occurs when a bank, broker or other nominee holding shares for a beneficial owner submits a proxy for the Annual Meeting without voting on a particular proposal because the bank, broker or other nominee has not received instructions

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Burlington Stores, Inc. 2020 Proxy Statement | 7


2020 PROXY STATEMENT

from the beneficial owner and does not have discretionary voting power with respect to that proposal. A bank, broker or other nominee may exercise its discretionary voting power with respect to the ratification of the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as our independent registered certified public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending February 3, 20182020 (Proposal 2), but does not have discretion to vote with respect to the election of directors (Proposal 1), thenon-binding advisory approval of the compensation of our named executive officersNEOs (Proposal 3) or thenon-binding advisory approval of the Burlington Stores, Inc. 2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan (as amended and restated)frequency of futureSay-On-Pay votes (Proposal 4).

How many votes are required to elect directors and adoptapprove the other proposals?

The affirmative voteOur Amended and Restated Bylaws (the “Amended Bylaws”) require that, in an uncontested election, each director will be elected by a majority of the holders of a plurality of votes properly cast by the stockholders entitled to voteshares present in person or represented by proxy at the Annual Meeting is required forand entitled to vote in the election of directorssuch director such that the number of shares voted “for” a director nominee must exceed the number of shares voted “against” that director nominee (Proposal 1). Please see page 1119 for a further

description of our director resignation policy.majority vote standard for the election of directors. Proposals 2 3 and 43 require the approval of the holders of a majority of votes properly castpresent in person or represented by proxy at the Annual Meeting and entitled to vote on the proposal. With respect to Proposal 4, the frequency receiving the greatest number of votes will be considered the frequency that stockholders approve. Abstentions have no effect on the determination of whether a director nominee has received the requisite amount of votes cast (Proposal 1), but will have the same effect as a vote “against” Proposal 2 or Proposal 3 and, broker with respect to Proposal 4, will have no effect. Brokernon-votes have no effect on the determination of whether a director nominee or any proposalProposal 2, Proposal 3 or Proposal 4 has received a plurality or majoritythe requisite number of the votes cast.cast to pass.

Why did I receive aone-page notice in the mail regarding the Internetinternet availability of proxy materials instead of a full set of proxy materials?

We are pleased to take advantage of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) rules that allow issuers to furnish proxy materials to their stockholders on the Internet.internet. We believe these rules allow us to provide our stockholders with the information they need while lowering the costs of delivery and reducing the

environmental impact of our Annual Meeting. Consequently, most stockholders will not receive paper copies of our proxy materials. We will instead send these stockholders a Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy Materials, which indicates how our stockholders may:

(i) access their proxy materials and vote their proxies over the Internetinternet or by telephone; or

(ii) make a request to receive a printed set of proxy materials by mail.

How do I vote?

Registered Holders

If you are a “registered holder” (meaning your shares are registered in your name with our transfer agent, American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC), then you may vote either in person at the Annual Meeting or by proxy. If you decide to vote by proxy, you may vote via the Internet,internet, by telephone or by mail, and your shares

will be voted at the Annual Meeting in the manner you direct. For those stockholders who receive a Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy Materials, the Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy Materials provides information on how to access your online proxy card which contains instructions onand vote via the internet or how to vote via the Internet or by telephone or receive a paper proxy card to vote by mail. TelephoneInternet and Internettelephone voting facilities for stockholders of record will close at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on May 16, 2017.19, 2020.

In the event that you return a signed proxy card on which no directions are specified, your shares will be voted as the Board recommends.

Beneficial Holders

If, like most stockholders, you are a beneficial owner of shares held in “street name” (meaning a broker, trustee, bank, or other nominee holds shares on your behalf), you may vote in person at the Annual Meeting only if you obtain a legal proxy from the nominee that holds your shares and present it to the inspector of elections with your ballot at the Annual Meeting. Alternatively, you may provide instructions to the nominee that holds your shares to vote by completing, signing and returning the voting instruction form that the nominee provides to you, or by using the voting arrangements described on the voting instruction form, the Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy Materials or other materials that the nominee provides to you.

If you do not provide voting instructions to your nominee, this results in a brokernon-vote and the

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2020 PROXY STATEMENT

nominee will not vote your shares on the election of directors (Proposal 1), thenon-binding advisory approval of the compensation of our named executive officersNEOs (Proposal 3), or thenon-binding advisory approval of the Burlington Stores, Inc. 2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan (as amended and restated)frequency of futureSay-On-Pay votes (Proposal 4), but your nominee canmay exercise its discretionary voting power with respect to the ratification of the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as our independent registered certified public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending February 3, 20182020 (Proposal 2) and register your shares as being present at the Annual Meeting for purposes of determining a quorum.

How doWhat does it mean if I attend the Annual Meeting?receive more than one notice, proxy or voting instruction card?

Admission to the Annual Meeting is limited to the Company’s stockholdersIt means that your shares may be registered differently or their proxy holders. Each stockholder will be asked to present proof of stock ownership and a valid, government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license, before being admitted to the Annual Meeting. Proof of stock ownership may consist of the top portion of the proxy card or, if shares are held in the name ofmore than one account. Please provide voting instructions for all notices, proxy and voting instruction cards you receive. Certain banks, brokers and other nominees have procedures in place to discontinue duplicate mailings upon a stockholder’s request. You should contact your bank, broker bank or other nominee an account statement or letter from the nominee indicating that the individual beneficially owned shares of the Company’s common stock on the record date for the Annual Meeting.more information.

Can I change my vote after I execute my proxy?

You may revoke or change a previously delivered proxy at any time before the Annual Meeting by delivering another proxy with a later date, by voting again via the Internetinternet or by telephone, or by delivering written notice of revocation of your proxy to our Secretary at our principal executive offices before the beginning of the Annual Meeting. You may also revoke your proxy by attending the Annual Meeting and voting in person, although attendance at the Annual Meeting will not, in and ofby itself, revoke a valid proxy that was previously delivered. If you hold shares in “street name,” you must contact the nominee that holds the shares on your behalf to revoke any prior voting instructions. You also may revoke any prior voting instructions by voting in person at the Annual Meeting if you obtain a legal proxy as described above.

Will my vote be kept confidential?

Yes. The Company’s policy is that all proxy or voting instruction cards, ballots and vote tabulations which identify the vote of an individual stockholder are to be kept secret.secret unless required by law. Your vote will be disclosed to Burlington or its agents only:

 

to allow the independent election inspectors to certify the results of the vote;

if we are legally required to disclose your vote;

if there is a proxy contest involving us; or

 

if you make a written comment on your proxy or voting instruction card or ballot.

Who pays for this proxy solicitation?

We will bear the entire cost of this solicitation of proxies, including the preparation, assembly, printing and mailing of the Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy Materials, this proxy statement,Proxy Statement, the proxy and any additional solicitation material that we may provide to stockholders. Copies of solicitation material will be provided to brokerage firms, fiduciaries, custodians and other nominees holding shares in their names that are beneficially owned by others so that they may forward the solicitation material to such beneficial owners. We have hired Innisfree M&A Incorporated (“Innisfree”), a proxy solicitation firm, to assist in soliciting proxies for an estimated fee of $15,000 plus reimbursement forof reasonable expenses. Further, the original solicitation of proxies by mail and through the Internetinternet may be supplemented by solicitation by mail, email, facsimile, personal interview or telephone and other means by our directors, officers and employees. No additional compensation will be paid to these individuals for any such services.

Who can I contact with questions?

If you have any questions or need assistance voting, please contact Innisfree. Stockholders may call toll free at1-888-750-5834. Banks and brokers may call collect at1-212-750-5833.

Who are the proxyholders and how were they selected?

The proxyholders are Michael O’Sullivan, John Crimmins and Karen Leu, each of whom was selected by our Board of Directors and is an officer of the Company. The proxyholders will vote all proxies, or record an abstention, in accordance with the directions on the proxy. If no direction is given, the shares will be voted as recommended by our Board of Directors.

Are there any stockholder proposals this year?

No stockholder proposals are included in this proxy statement,Proxy Statement, and we have not received notice of any stockholder proposals to be raised at the Annual Meeting.

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2020 PROXY STATEMENT

Could other matters be decided at the Annual Meeting?

We do not know of any other matters that will be considered at the Annual Meeting. If any matter other than those described in this proxy statementProxy Statement arises at the Annual Meeting, the proxies will be voted at the discretion of the proxy holders.

How do I attend the Annual Meeting?

Admission to the Annual Meeting is limited to the Company’s stockholders or their proxy holders. Each stockholder will be asked to present proof of stock ownership and a valid, government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license, before being admitted to the Annual Meeting. Proof of stock ownership may consist of the top portion of the proxy card or, if shares are held in the name of a bank, broker or other nominee, an account statement or letter from the nominee indicating that the individual beneficially owned shares of the Company’s common stock on the record date for the Annual Meeting.

We currently plan to hold the Annual Meeting in person. However, we are actively monitoring the public health and travel safety concerns relating to the

evolvingCOVID-19 situation and the advisories or mandates that federal, state and local governments, and related agencies, may issue. In the event we determine that it is not possible or advisable to hold our Annual Meeting as currently planned, we will publicly announce alternative arrangements for the meeting as promptly as practicable, which may include holding the meeting in a different location or solely by means of remote communication (i.e., a virtual-only annual meeting). If you are planning to attend our Annual Meeting, please check the Investor Relations section of our corporate website, which can be accessed at www.burlingtoninvestors.com, prior to the meeting date for any updated information.

Where and when will I be able to find the voting results?

You can find the official results of the voting at the Annual Meeting in our Current Report on Form8-K that we will file with the SEC within four business days after the Annual Meeting. If the official results are not available at that time, we will provide preliminary voting results in the Form8-K and will provide the final results in an amendment to the Form8-K as soon as they become available.

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PROPOSAL NO. 1

ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

Proposal No. 1 — Election of Directors

Overview ofOurof Our Board Structure

The Board currently consists of eightnine members divided into three classes as nearly equal in size as is practicable (designated Class I, Class II and Class III), with one class being elected each year for a three-year term. Each director’s term continues until his or her successor shall have been duly elected and qualified, or until his or her earlier death, resignation, removal or retirement.

Frank Cooper, IIIEffective September 16, 2019, the Board increased its size to ten members and appointed Michael O’Sullivan as a Class II member of the Board in connection with the commencement of his employment as the Company’s Chief Executive Officer. As contemplated by that certain letter agreement dated June 14, 2019 between us and Thomas A. Kingsbury (discussed in further detail below under the caption entitled “Executive Compensation—Kingsbury Employment Agreement”), Mr. Kingsbury resigned from the Board effective December 5, 2016.as of February 1, 2020. Following Mr. Cooper joined BlackRock, Inc., and in his new position will not be serving on public company boards. Joshua Bekenstein resigned fromKingsbury’s resignation, the Board on March 7, 2017 after almost eleven years of service. Neither resignation was the result of any disagreement with the Company on any matter relatingdecreased its size to the Company’s operations, policies or practices. The Board has not yet nominated any individuals to fill the vacancies resulting from either resignation.nine members.

At the Annual Meeting, stockholders will consider the election of three (3) directors for terms ending in 2020.2023. The Board, upon the recommendation of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, has nominated Ted English, Jordan Hitch and Mary Ann Tocio, each a current Class I director, for election to the Board. The proxy holders intend to vote all proxies received by them for the nominees unless otherwise instructed. In the event any nominee is unable or declines to serve as a director at the time of the Annual Meeting, the proxies will be voted for a substitute nominee, if any, who may be designated by the Board of Directors to fill the vacancy. As of the date of this proxy statement,Proxy Statement, the Board of Directors is not aware that any nominee is unable or will decline to serve as a director.

In determining whether to nominate each of the current Class I directors for another term, the Board considered the factors discussed below under the caption entitled “Selecting Nominees to the Board of Directors,” and concluded that each of the current directors standing forre-election possesses unique experiences, qualifications, attributes and skills that will enable each of them to guide the Company in the best interests of its stockholders. There are no family relationships among directors and executive officers of the Company.

Proxies may not be voted for a greater number of persons than the three nominees named in this Proxy Statement.

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PROPOSAL NO. 1 — ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

Nominees for Election at Annual Meeting

The following sets forth the name, age (as of March 23, 2017)26, 2020) and information regarding the business experience and qualifications of each of the Class I nominees:nominees whose terms are expiring at the Annual Meeting:

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Ted English

Age:66

Director since:2016

Committee Membership:

  Audit

  Compensation

Background:

Mr. English joined our Board of Directors in November 2016 and currently serves on our Audit Committee and Compensation Committee. Mr. English has been the Executive Chairman of the board of directors of Bob’s Discount Furniture since March 2016 and was its Chief Executive Officer from 2006 until his appointment as Executive Chairman. Prior to joining Bob’s Discount Furniture, Mr. English was TJX’s Chief Executive Officer from 2000 (and President from 1999) to 2005. Mr. English was Chairman of The Marmaxx Group between 2000 and 2004, and held various other executive and merchandising positions with TJX from 1983 to 1999. In addition to Burlington Stores, Inc. and Bob’s Discount Furniture, Mr. English serves on the board of directors of Rue La La, ane-commerce destination connecting world-class brands with next generation shoppers. He previously was a director of BJ’s Wholesale Club, Inc. Mr. English also serves on the Board of Trustees of various funds within the multi-affiliate structure of Natixis Global Asset Management, a global asset management firm.

Key Qualifications:

Mr. English’s long career in retail, includingoff-price retail, has given him broad experience in large retail chain management. Mr. English also has significant leadership experience, including service as the chief executive of both a premier discount home furnishings company and a leadingoff-price retailer of apparel and home fashions.

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Jordan Hitch

Age:53

Director since:2006

Committee Membership:

  Compensation (Chair)

  Nominating and Corporate Governance

Background:

Mr. Hitch joined our Board of Directors in April 2006 and currently serves as the Chair of our Compensation Committee and as a member of our Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. Mr. Hitch was formerly a Managing Director at Bain Capital, a private investment firm, and left the firm after 18 years in 2015. Mr. Hitch served as a Senior Advisor to Bain Capital following his departure from the firm through the end of 2017. He is currently an active personal investor across a wide range of early stage companies. Mr. Hitch is also a member of the board of directors of Bright Horizons Family Solutions. Prior to joining Bain Capital, Mr. Hitch was a consultant at Bain & Company where he worked in the financial services, healthcare and utility industries.

Key Qualifications:

Mr. Hitch has substantial experience investing in retail companies and possesses valuable strategic and financial expertise, including significant experience with capital markets transactions and investments in both public and private companies.

 

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Ted English, 63, joined our Board of Directors in November 2016. Mr. English has been the Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors of Bob’s Discount Furniture since March 2016 and was its Chief Executive Officer from 2006 until his appointment as Executive Chairman. Prior to joining Bob’s Discount Furniture, Mr. English was TJX’s Chief Executive Officer from 2000 (and President from 1999) to 2005. Mr. English was Chairman of The Marmaxx Group between 2000 and 2004, and held various other executive and merchandising positions with TJX from 1983 to 1999. In addition to Burlington Stores and Bob’s Discount Furniture, Mr. English serves on the Board of Directors of Rue La La, ane-commerce destination connecting world-class brands with next generation shoppers. He previously was a director of BJ’s Wholesale Club, Inc. Mr. English also serves on the Board of Trustees of various funds within the multi-affiliate structure of Natixis Global Asset Management, a global asset management firm. Mr. English’s long career in retail, includingoff-price retail, has given him broad experience in large retail chain management. Mr. English also has significant leadership experience, including service as the chief executive of both a premier discount home furnishings company and a leadingoff-price retailer of apparel and home fashions.

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PROPOSAL NO. 1 — ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

 

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Mary Ann Tocio

Jordan HitchAge:, 50, joined our Board of Directors in April 2006 and currently is the Chairman of our Compensation 71

Director since:2015

Committee and a member of ourMembership:

  Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. Mr. Hitch was formerly a Managing Director at Bain Capital and left the firm after 18 years in 2015. He is currently an active personal investor across a wide range of early stage companies. Mr. Hitch is a member of the board of directors of Gymboree Corporation, owned by Bain Capital, and Bright Horizons Family Solutions, a company in which Bain Capital owns an interest. In connection with these board roles Mr. Hitch serves as a Senior Advisor to Bain Capital. Prior to joining Bain Capital, Mr. Hitch was a consultant at Bain & Company where he worked in the financial services, healthcare and utility industries. Mr. Hitch has substantial experience investing in retail companies and possesses valuable financial expertise, including significant experience with capital markets transactions and investments in both public and private companies.
(Chair)

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Mary Ann Tocio, 68, joined of our Board of Directors in December 2015 and currently is a member of our Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. She retired from Bright Horizons Family Solutions, Inc. in July 2015 after 23 years with that company, most recently as its President and Chief Operating Officer. Prior to Bright Horizons, Ms. Tocio held several positions with Wellesley Medical Management, Inc. (Health Stop), including Senior Vice President of Operations. Ms. Tocio is a member of the board of directors of Bright Horizons and Civitas Solutions, and is Chairman of the Board of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, anon-profit  health services company. Ms. Tocio was a member of the board of directors ofMac-Gray Corporation from 2006 to 2013. Ms. Tocio has significant leadership and operational experience, including expertise managing growing organizations, as well as substantial public company board experience.Compensation

Background:

Ms. Tocio joined our Board of Directors in December 2015 and currently serves as Chair of our Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and as a member of our Compensation Committee. She retired from Bright Horizons Family Solutions, Inc., an employer-sponsored child care provider, in July 2015 after 23 years with that company, most recently as its President and Chief Operating Officer. Prior to Bright Horizons, Ms. Tocio held several positions with Wellesley Medical Management, Inc. (Health Stop), including Senior Vice President of Operations. Ms. Tocio is a member of the board of directors of Bright Horizons and is a Governing Trustee of the Dana Farber Cancer Institute. Ms. Tocio was a member of the board of directors ofMac-Gray Corporation from 2006 to 2013 and a member of the board of directors of Civitas Solutions from 2015 to 2019.

Key Qualifications:

Ms. Tocio has significant leadership and operational experience, including expertise managing growing organizations, as well as substantial public company board experience.

Recommendation of the Board of Directors

The Board of Directors unanimously recommends that you voteFORthe election of Ted English, Jordan Hitch and Mary Ann Tocio.

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PROPOSAL NO. 1 — ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

Directors Continuing in Office

The following sets forth the name, age (as of March 23, 2017)26, 2020) and information regarding the business experience and qualifications of each of the directors who will continue in office after the Annual Meeting:

Class II Directors—Terms Expiring at the 20182021 Annual Meeting

 

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Thomas A. Kingsbury, 64, has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer, and on our Board of Directors, since December 2008. Mr. Kingsbury was appointed Chairman of the Board in May 2014. Prior to joining us, Mr. Kingsbury was Senior Executive Vice President—Information Services,E-Commerce,William P. McNamara Marketing and Business Development of Kohl’s Corporation from August 2006 to December 2008. Prior to joining Kohl’s, Mr. Kingsbury held various management positions with The May Department Stores Company, an operator of department store chains, commencing in 1976 and as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Filene’s division since February 2000. Mr. Kingsbury’sday-to-day leadership and experience as our President and Chief Executive Officer gives him unique insights into our challenges, opportunities and operations.

 

Age:69

Director since:2014

Committee Membership:

  Nominating and Corporate Governance

Background:

Mr. McNamara joined our Board of Directors in September 2014 and currently serves on our Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. Mr. McNamara has over 30 years of retail experience with two prominent department stores, Macy’s/Federated and The May Department Stores Company. Mr. McNamara began his career at Filene’s, a division of May Department Stores, rising through the ranks of the merchandising organization. In 1998, Mr. McNamara was promoted to President of the May Merchandising Company to lead all brand merchandising and product development. In 2000, he was promoted to Vice Chairman of May Department Stores Company where he had direct responsibility for all of its department store divisions. In 2005, upon completion of the merger between Federated and May, he became Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the company’s Midwest division. In 2008, Mr. McNamara became President of Macy’s Reinvent Strategies and served in that capacity until his retirement in 2009.

 

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William P. McNamara, 66, joined our Board of Directors in September 2014 and currently serves on our Audit Committee and Compensation Committee. Mr. McNamara has over 30 years of retail experience with two prominent department stores, Macy’s/Federated and May Department Stores Company. Mr. McNamara began his career at Filene’s, a division of May Department Stores, rising through the ranks of the merchandising organization. In 1998, Mr. McNamara was promoted to President of the May Merchandising Company to lead all brand merchandising and product development. In 2000, he was promoted to Vice Chairman of May Department Stores Company where he had direct responsibility for all of its department store divisions. In 2005, upon completion of the merger between Federated and May, he became Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the company’s Midwest division. In 2008, Mr. McNamara became President of Macy’s Reinvent Strategies and served in that capacity until his retirement in 2009.

Mr. McNamara’s long career in retail has given him broad experience in large retail chain management, including merchandising and product development.

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Michael O’Sullivan

Age:56

Director since:2019

Committee Membership:

  None

Background:

Class III Directors—Terms ExpiringMr. O’Sullivan joined Burlington as our Chief Executive Officer in September 2019. Mr. O’Sullivan came to Burlington from Ross Stores, anoff-price retailer, where he worked for 16 years, rising to become their President and Chief Operating Officer in 2009. While at Ross, Mr. O’Sullivan played a leading role in managing major functional areas such as Stores, Loss Prevention, Supply Chain, Finance, IT, Human Resources, Merchandise Allocations, Merchant Support, and Marketing. Mr. O’Sullivan also served on Ross’s board of directors from 2014 to April 2019. Prior to working at Ross, Mr. O’Sullivan was a Partner at Bain & Company from 1991 to 2003. At Bain, Mr. O’Sullivan worked with companies in the 2019 Annual Meetingretail industry on business strategy and performance improvement.

Key Qualifications:

Mr. O’Sullivan’sday-to-day leadership and experience as our CEO, as well as his extensive experience in theoff-price retail sector, gives him unique insights into our opportunities, challenges and operations.

 

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PROPOSAL NO. 1 — ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

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Jessica Rodriguez

John J. MahoneyAge:, 65, joined our Board of Directors in December 2013 and currently serves as the Lead Independent Director. Mr. Mahoney is also a member of our Compensation 47

Director since:2018

Committee and the Chairman of ourMembership:

  Nominating and Corporate Governance

Background:

Ms. Rodriguez joined our Board of Directors in October 2018 and currently serves on our Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. Ms. Rodriguez has served as Chief Marketing Officer and President of Entertainment of UCI Networks, the leading media company serving Hispanic America, since August 2019. Prior to that, Ms. Rodriguez served as President and Chief Operating Officer of UCI Networks from January 2018 through July 2019. From 2014 through January 2018, Ms. Rodriguez served as Chief Marketing Officer for Univision Communications Inc. (UCI). Ms. Rodriguez oversees the daily operations of UCI’s television networks and oversees all marketing for the company and all entertainment development, live events, scheduling and acquisitions for Univision’s portfolio of television and cable networks. Ms. Rodriguez also oversees consumer branding and messaging, corporate marketing, branding initiatives and campaigns, and branding research analytics, among other functions. Prior to these roles at Univision, Ms. Rodriguez served as Executive Vice President of Program Scheduling & Promotions Officer from 2012 through 2014 and as Senior Vice President of Cable Networks, from 2011 through 2012. Ms. Rodriguez served in various other positions with Univision from 2001 through 2011.

Key Qualifications:

Ms. Rodriguez has extensive operational and marketing experience, and brings a deep understanding of the needs of consumers.

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Burlington Stores, Inc. 2020 Proxy Statement | 15


PROPOSAL NO. 1 — ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

Class IlI Directors—Terms Expiring at the 2022 Annual Meeting

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John J. Mahoney

Age:68

Director since:2013

Committee Membership:

  None

Background:

Mr. Mahoney joined our Board of Directors in December 2013 and currently serves as Chairman of the Board. Mr. Mahoney is also a member of the board of directors of Bloomin’ Brands, Inc., Chico’s FAS and The Michaels Companies, Inc. Previously, Mr. Mahoney served on the Boards of Directors of Advo, Inc. from 2001 to 2007, Tweeter Home Entertainment Group, Inc. from 2004 to 2007 and Zipcar, Inc. from 2010 to 2012. Mr. Mahoney was Vice Chairman of Staples, Inc. from January 2006 until his retirement in July 2012. While at Staples, Mr. Mahoney was Chief Financial Officer from September 1996 to January 2012, Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer and Chief Financial Officer from October 1997 to January 2006 and Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer from September 1996 to October 1997. Before joining Staples, Mr. Mahoney was a partner with the accounting firm of Ernst & Young LLP where he worked for 20 years, including service in the firm’s National Office Accounting and Auditing group. Mr. Mahoney is a certified public accountant.

Key Qualifications:

Mr. Mahoney is a member of the boardhas extensive experience serving on public company boards of directors of Bloomin’ Brands, Inc., Chico’s FAS and The Michaels Companies, Inc. Previously,significant executive experience in the retail industry. Mr. Mahoney served on the Boards of Directors of Advo, Inc. from 2001 to 2007, Tweeter Home Entertainment Group, Inc. from 2004 to 2007 and Zipcar, Inc. from 2010 to 2012. Mr. Mahoney was Vice Chairman of Staples, Inc. from January 2006 until his retirement in July 2012. While at Staples, Mr. Mahoney was Chief Financial Officer from September 1996 to January 2012, Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer and Chief Financial Officer from October 1997 to January 2006 and Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer from September 1996 to October 1997. Before joining Staples, Mr. Mahoney was a partner with the accounting firm of Ernst & Young LLP where he worked for 20 years, including service in the firm’s National Office Accounting and Auditing group. Mr. Mahoney is a certified public accountant. Mr. Mahoneyalso possesses valuable financial expertise, including substantial experience in corporate finance and accounting, and extensive experience providing audit and financial reporting services to numerous organizations.

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Laura J. Sen

 

Age:63

Director since:2018

Committee Membership:

  Audit

Background:

Ms. Sen joined our Board of Directors in June 2018 and currently serves on our Audit Committee. Ms. Sen is a member of the board of directors of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company and the Massachusetts Port Authority. Ms. Sen previously served as a director of BJ’s Wholesale Club, Inc., EMC Corporation, rue21, inc., Abington Savings Bank and the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston. Ms. Sen served as theNon-Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors of BJ’s Wholesale Club, Inc., a membership-only warehouse chain, from January 2016 through April 2018 and was its Chief Executive Officer from February 2009 through January 2016. Ms. Sen served as BJ’s Chief Operating Officer from January 2008 through February 2009. Ms. Sen also served as BJ’s Executive Vice President of Merchandising and Logistics from January 2007 through January 2008, and held the same position from 1997 to March 2003. From March 2003 to December 2006, Ms. Sen was the Principal of Sen Retail Consulting, advising companies in the retail sector in the areas of merchandising and logistics.

 

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Ms. Sen played key roles in growing BJ’s from an early stage business to a Fortune 500 company. With nearly 30 years of experience in the retail industry, Ms. Sen brings an exceptional leadership record, deep operating experience and financial expertise to the Board.

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PROPOSAL NO. 1 — ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

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Tricia Patrick, 36, joined our Board of Directors in November 2012 and is on our Audit Committee. Ms. Patrick is a Managing Director of Advent International Corporation. Prior to Advent, Ms. Patrick held various positions with Bain Capital from 2004 through July 2016, most recently as a Principal in Bain Capital Private Equity’s consumer, retail and dining sector team. Prior to Bain Capital, Ms. Patrick was an investment professional in the Private Equity Group of Goldman, Sachs & Co. from 2002 to 2004. Ms. Patrick has extensive experience investing in retail companies and possesses valuable financial expertise, including significant experience with capital markets transactions and investments in both public and private companies.Paul J. Sullivan

 

Age:72

Director since:2012

Committee Membership:

  Audit (Chair)

Background:

Mr. Sullivan joined our Board of Directors in November 2012 and is the Chair of our Audit Committee. Mr. Sullivan was a partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP from 1983 until his retirement in July 2009. At PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Mr. Sullivan was a member of the Board of Partners, Chair of the Finance Committee, and a member of the Management Evaluation and Compensation, Admissions and Strategy Committees. Mr. Sullivan is a certified public accountant.

 

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Paul J. Sullivan, 69, joined our Board of Directors in November 2012 and is the Chairman of our Audit Committee and a member of our Compensation Committee. Mr. Sullivan was a partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP from 1983 until his retirement in July 2009. At PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Mr. Sullivan was a member of the Board of Partners, Chair of the Finance Committee, and a member of the Management Evaluation and Compensation, Admissions and Strategy Committees. Mr. Sullivan is a certified public accountant.

Mr. Sullivan possesses valuable financial expertise, including substantial experience in corporate finance and accounting and extensive experience providing audit and financial reporting services to numerous organizations.

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EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE COMPANYInformation About Our Executive Officers

Effective at the beginning of fiscal 2017, Jennifer Vecchio, Marc Katz and Fred Hand were promoted to newly-created leadership positions. Ms. Vecchio is now our Chief Merchandising Officer/Principal, and is responsible for managing our merchandising and planning and allocation organizations. Mr. Katz is now our Chief Financial Officer/Principal, and is responsible for managing our finance, information technology and supply chain organizations. Mr. Hand is now our Chief Customer Officer/Principal, and is responsible for managing our stores, real estate and marketing organizations. These executives, along with Janet Dhillon and Joyce Manning Magrini, directly report to Mr. Kingsbury and are, collectively, our executive officers.

Set forth below is the name, age (as of March 23, 2017)26, 2020) and certain information regarding each of our executive officers, other than Mr. Kingsbury,O’Sullivan, whose biographical information is presented above.

Janet Dhillon—Executive Vice

  Jennifer Vecchio

  President and Chief Merchandising Officer

Ms. Vecchio, 54, has served as our President General Counsel and Corporate Secretary.Chief Merchandising Officer since April 2019. From January 2017 through April 2019, Ms. Dhillon, 54, hasVecchio served as our Chief Merchandising Officer/Principal. From the commencement of her employment with us in May 2015 through January 2017, Ms. Vecchio served as our Executive Vice President General Counsel and Corporate Secretary since July 2015. PriorChief Merchandising Officer. From January 2014 to joining us,May 2015, Ms. Dhillon servedVecchio provided consulting services to our merchandising organization. From 1997 to June 2011, Ms. Vecchio held various positions in the merchandising organization of Ross Stores, most recently serving as Executive Vice President General Counsel and Corporate Secretary of JC Penney Company, Inc.Merchandising—Mens/Kids from FebruaryDecember 2009 through March 2015. Prior to joining JC Penney, Ms. Dhillon servedJune 2011 and as Senior Vice President, General CounselPresident/GMM from February 2005 through December 2009 with various areas of responsibilities including Mens, Kids, Shoes, Lingerie and Chief Compliance OfficerHosiery. From 1988 through 1997, Ms. Vecchio held various positions in the merchandising organization of US Airways Group, Inc. from 2006 to 2009. Ms. Dhillon joined US Airways, Inc. in 2004 as Managing Director and Associate General Counsel and served as Vice President and Deputy General Counsel from 2005 to 2006. Ms. Dhillon was with the law firm of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP from 1991 to 2004.Macy’s.

Fred Hand—Chief Customer Officer/Principal.

  Fred Hand

  Chief Customer Officer/Principal

Mr. Hand, 53,56, has served as our Chief Customer Officer/Principal since January 2017.2017 and is responsible for managing our stores and real estate organizations. From the commencement of his employment with us in February 2008 through January 2017, Mr. Hand served as our Executive Vice President of Stores. Prior to joining us, Mr. Hand served as Senior Vice President, Group Director of Stores of Macy’s, Inc. from March 2006 to February 2008. From 2001 to 2006, Mr. Hand served as Senior Vice President, Stores and Visual Merchandising of Filene’s Department Stores. Mr. Hand held various other positions at The May Department Stores Company from 1991 to 2001, including Area Manager, General Manager, and Regional Vice President.

  John Crimmins

  Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Marc Katz—Chief Financial Officer/Principal.Mr. Katz, 52, has served asCrimmins, 63, became our Chief Financial Officer/PrincipalOfficer in October 2019 after serving in that capacity on an interim basis since January 2017. From January 2015 through January 2017,September 2019. Prior to this role, Mr. Katz served asCrimmins was our Executive Vice President, and Chief Financial Officer. From AprilFinance. Mr. Crimmins first came to Burlington in 2011 through January 2015, Mr. Katz served as our ExecutiveSenior Vice President, Merchandising Support and Information Technology. From December 2009 through April 2011, Mr. Katz served as our Executive Vice President of Merchandise Planning and Allocation. From the commencement of his employment with us in July 2008 through December 2009, Mr. Katz served as our Executive Vice President andFinance, Chief Accounting Officer. Prior to joining us,Burlington, he worked at Timberland from 2002 to 2009. Mr. KatzCrimmins initially served as Executive Vice President andtheir Chief Accounting Officer until 2007 when he became their Chief Financial Officer of A.C. Moore Arts & Crafts, Inc., a specialty retailer of arts, crafts and floral merchandise, from September 2006 to June 2008.Officer. Prior to his employment with A.C. Moore,2002, Mr. Katz held various positions with Foot Locker, Inc., a specialty retailer of athletic footwear, apparel and related items, from June 1997 to September 2006 including most recently as Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer frommid-2002 to September 2006. Prior to his employment with Foot Locker, Mr. KatzCrimmins served for eight years in various financial management positions including several years at The May Department Stores Company.Reed Business Information.

Joyce Manning Magrini—Executive Vice President—Human Resources.

  Joyce Manning Magrini

  Executive Vice President—Human Resources

Ms. Magrini, 62,65, has served as our Executive Vice President—Human Resources since November 2009. Prior to joining us, Ms. Magrini served as Executive Vice President—Administration of Finlay Jewelry since June 2005. From March 1999 to June 2005, Ms. Magrini served as Senior Vice President of Human Resources of Finlay Jewelry and from January 1995 to February 1999, Ms. Magrini was Vice President of Human Resources of Finlay Jewelry. Ms. Magrini held various human resources and customer service management positions at Macy’s from 1978 through December 1994.

Jennifer Vecchio—Chief Merchandising Officer/Principal. Ms. Vecchio, 51, has served as our Chief Merchandising Officer/Principal since January 2017. From the commencement of her employment with us in May 2015 through January 2017, Ms. Vecchio served as our Executive Vice President and Chief Merchandising Officer. Prior to May 2015 and since January 2014, Ms. Vecchio provided consulting services to our merchandising organization. From 1997 to June 2011, Ms. Vecchio held various positions in the merchandising organization of Ross Stores, most recently serving as Executive Vice President of Merchandising—Mens/Kids from December 2009 through June 2011 and as Senior Vice President/GMM from February 2005 through December 2009 with various areas of responsibilities including Mens, Kids, Shoes, Lingerie and Hosiery. From 1988 through 1997, Ms. Vecchio held various positions in the merchandising organization of Macy’s.

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CORPORATE GOVERNANCECorporate Governance

The Board is committed to strong corporate governance because it promotes the long-term interests of stockholders, enhances Board and management accountability and helps build public trust in the Company. The Board has adopted policies and processes that foster effective Board oversight of critical matters such as strategy and risk management. The Board and its committees review our major governance documents, policies and processes regularly in the context of current corporate governance trends, regulatory changes and recognized best practices. Below is an overview of our corporate governance structure and processes, including key aspects of our Board operations.

Corporate Governance Guidelines

The Board has developed and adopted Corporate Governance Guidelines (the “Guidelines”) to assist the Board in the exercise of its responsibilities and to best serve the interests of the Company and its stockholders. The Guidelines cover matters including selection and composition of the determination ofBoard; criteria for director independence,independence; director compensation and performance evaluations; the operation, structure and meetings of the Board and the committees of the BoardBoard; and other matters relating to our corporate

governance. The Guidelines also describe the Company’s stock ownership guidelines and compensation clawback policy. The Guidelines are available onin the Investor Relations section of our corporate website, www.burlingtonstores.com,which can be accessed at www.burlingtoninvestors.com, under “Investor Relations—Corporate Governance—“Governance—Governance Documents.Overview. The information contained on our website does not constitute a part of this Proxy Statement.

Voting Policy forElectionMajority Vote Standard for Election of Directors

The Guidelines providesBoard approved an amendment to the Amended Bylaws in February 2018 to require that, in an uncontested election, each director will be elected by a majority of the votes cast by the shares present in person or represented by proxy at the Annual Meeting and entitled to vote in the election of such director, such that the number of shares voted “for” a director nominee must exceed the number of shares voted “against” that director nominee. A plurality voting standard remains applicable to anynon-contested contested election. A “contested election” is one in which (i) the Secretary of the Company received notice that a stockholder has nominated or intends to nominate a person for election to the Board pursuant to the requirements of the Amended Bylaws and (ii) such nomination was not withdrawn by the stockholder on or prior to the tenth day before the mailing of the notice of the meeting. In connection with the approval of the amendment, the Board also approved changes to the Guidelines such that, following any election of directors other than a contested election of directors, any incumbent director who was a nominee and who receivesdid not receive a greater numbermajority of the votes “withheld” from cast by the shares present in person or represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote on the election of directors must promptly tender

his or her election than votes “for”offer of resignation to the Board for consideration by the Board.

The Guidelines further provide that a recommendation on whether or not to accept such election shall, promptly following the receipt of the final report from the independent inspectors of election, tender his or hera resignation andoffer will then be made by the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee shallor, if each member of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee did not receive the required majority vote or the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee is otherwise unable to act, a majority of the Board will appoint a special committee of independent directors for the purpose of making a recommendation to the Board (the committee with authority to act is referred to as “Nominating Committee”). If no independent directors received the required majority vote, the Guidelines require that the Board act on the resignation offer. Within 60 days following certification of the stockholder vote, the Nominating Committee will consider the resignation offer and recommend to the Board whetherthe action to accept it.be taken. Absent a compelling reason as determined by the Board in the exercise of its business judgment for the director to remain on the Board, as determined by the Board in its business judgment, the Board will accept the resignation offer shall be accepted.offer. Any director who tenders his or her resignation pursuant to this provision shallwill not participate in

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the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee recommendation or Board action regarding whether to accept the resignation offer. The Board will determine whether to accept the resignation offer and publicly disclose the decision and

the reasons for the decision, by a press release, a filing with the SEC or other broadly disseminated means of communication, within 90 days following certification of the stockholder vote.

Board Leadership Structure

John Mahoney was appointed as our Chairman in February 2020 following the departure of Thomas A. Kingsbury, the Company’s Presidentwho served as our Executive Chairman from September 2019 and Chairman and Chief Executive Officer serves as Chairman of the Board, having been appointed to that position by the Board infrom May 2014. The Board believes that having an independent Chairman will leverage Mr. Kingsbury is best situated to serve as Chairman because he is the director most familiar with our business and most capableMahoney’s extensive Board leadership experience during this period of effectively identifying strategic priorities and leading the discussion and execution of strategy. Moreover,management transition. This structure allows our Chief Executive Officer is able to effectively communicatefocus on the operations of our business while the independent Chairman focuses on leading the Board strategy toin its responsibilities.

Under the other members of management and efficiently implement Board directives.

The Guidelines, provide that the Board retains the right to exercise its discretion to combinein combining or separateseparating the offices of Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer. Such aThis determination would beis made depending on what is in the best interest of the Company in light of all circumstances. In the event that the Chairman is not an independent director, the Guidelines provide that the

Board will appoint an independent director to serve in a lead capacity (the “Lead Independent Director”) to coordinate the activities of the other independent directors. The Lead Independent Director will be appointed by the independent directors annually to aone-year term (which may be renewed), and shall serve until such earlier time as he or she ceases to be a director, resigns as Lead Independent Director, is replaced as Lead Independent Director by a majority of the independent directors, or the Board elects an independent Chairman. In March 2016, JohnMr. Mahoney was appointed as the Lead Independent Director. In February 2017, the Board renewed Mr. Mahoney’s termserved as the Lead Independent Director forfrom March 2016 until his appointment as Chairman in February 2020. As Mr. Mahoney is an independent director, the Board does not currently have aone-year term ending in March 2018.

The Lead Independent Director’s responsibilities include:Director.

Presiding over executive sessionsPursuant to our Amended Bylaws, the Chairman of the independent directors.

PresidingBoard shall preside at all meetings of the Board in the absence of,at which he or upon the request of, the Chairman.

Servingshe is present and shall have such powers and perform such duties as a liaison and supplemental channel of communication between the Chairman and the independent directors.

Providing input on information sent to the Board.

Providing input on agendas for meetings of the Board.

Reviewing meeting schedules to assure there is sufficient time for discussion of all agenda items.

Communicating to the Chief Executive Officer the annual performance evaluation made by thenon-management directors.

The Lead Independent Director also has the authority to call meetings of the independent directors and, if appropriate and with the concurrence of the other independent directors, be available for consultation and direct communication with major stockholders. If the Lead Independent Director is not present at any meeting of the Board a majority of the independent directors present shall select anon-employee, independent directorDirectors may from time to act as Lead Independent Director for the purpose and duration of such meeting.time prescribe.

The Board believes that its current leadership structure is appropriate and meets the Company’s current needs. The Board periodically reviewswill regularly assess its leadership structure to ensuredetermine that it continues to meet its needs.the leadership structure is the most appropriate for the Company at the time.

Board’s Role in Risk Oversight

Our

While the Board is ultimately responsible for risk oversight, the Board has delegated to the Audit Committee the primary responsibility for oversight of our risk assessment and management process. The Audit Committee reviews periodic assessments from the Company’s ongoing enterprise risk management process that is designed to identify potential events that may affect the achievement of the Company’s objectives or have a material adverse effect on the Company. In addition, the head of the Company’s internal audit function regularly reports to the Audit Committee. The head of the internal audit function, the Chief Financial Officer and representatives from Deloitte & Touche LLP, our independent registered certified public accounting firm, regularly meet in private sessions with the Audit Committee.

Our management team is responsible forday-to-day risk management. This includes identifying, evaluating

and addressing potential risks that may exist at the enterprise, strategic, reputational, financial, operational, legal, compliance and reporting levels.

Our Board committees also consider and address risk as they perform their respective committee responsibilities. For example, the Compensation Committee considers the risks to our business associated with our compensation policies and practices. Additionally, the Audit Committee considers, among other risks, financial risk exposures, financial reporting, internal controls and internal information systems, and those risks related to legal and compliance matters, data protection and cybersecurity, receiving regular reports on these matters from senior members of our information technology, internal audit and legal departments. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee considers risks related to the Company’s overall corporate governance profile and

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processes, including monitoring our corporate social responsibility practices. All committees report to the full Board as appropriate, including when a matter rises to the level of a material or enterprise-level risk. Our management is responsible forday-to-day risk management. This oversight includes identifying, evaluating, and addressing potential risks that may exist at the enterprise, strategic, financial, operational, compliance and reporting levels.

The Board believes that the work undertaken by the committees of the Board, together with the work of the Company’s management team, enables the Board of Directors to effectively oversee the Company’s management of risk.

StrategicPlanningStrategic Planning

Our Board has significant oversight of our corporate strategy and long-range operating plans. Acting as a full Board and through each independent Board committee, the Board is fully engaged in the Company’s strategic planning process. Setting the strategic course of the Company involves a high level of constructive engagement between management and the Board. Management develops and prioritizes strategic plans, on an annual basis. Managementwhich are then reviews these strategic plansreviewed with the Board during an annual board strategy meeting, along with the Company’s challenges, industry dynamics and other factors.

Management provides the Board with updates throughout the year regarding the implementation and results of the Company’s strategic plans, as well as frequent updates regarding the Company’s financial performance. In addition, Mr. Kingsburyour CEO communicates regularly with the Board on important business opportunities and developments. As a result, the Board has substantial oversight of the development and implementation of the Company’s strategic plans, and the Board is able to effectively monitor the Company’s progress with respect to the strategic goals and objectives.

Independent Directors

Under the Guidelines, our Board will determine the independence of a director according to the definitions of “independent director” included in the pertinent listing standards of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) and other relevant laws, rules and regulations. The Board evaluates any relationships of each director and nominee, as well as any member of his or her immediate family, with the Company and makes an affirmative determination whether or not such director or nominee is independent.

Under the standards set forth in the NYSE’s Listed Company Manual, the Board must affirmatively determine that a director does not have any material relationship with the Company in order for such director to be deemed “independent.” Moreover, a director cannot be deemed “independent” if, among other things:

the director is, or has been within the last three years, an employee of the Company, or an immediate family member is, or has been within the last three years, an executive officer of the Company;

the director has received, or has an immediate family member who received, during any12-month period within the last three years, more than $120,000 in direct compensation from the Company, other than director and committee fees and pension or other

forms of deferred compensation for prior service (provided such compensation is not contingent in any way on continued service);

(1) the director or an immediate family member is a current partner of a firm that is the Company’s internal or external auditor, (2) the director is a current employee of such a firm, (3) the director has an immediate family member who is a current employee of such a firm and personally works on the Company’s audit, or (4) the director or an immediate family member was within the last three years a partner or employee of such firm and personally worked on the Company’s audit within that time;

the director or an immediate family member is, or has been within the last three years, employed as an executive officer of another company where any of the Company’s present executive officers at the same time serve or served on that company’s compensation committee; or

the director is a current employee, or an immediate family member is a current executive officer, of a company that has made payments to, or received payments from, the Company for property or services in an amount which, in any of the last three fiscal years, exceeds the greater of $1 million or 2% of the other company’s consolidated gross revenues.

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The Board of Directors has affirmatively determined that (i) each of our directors other than Mr. KingsburyO’Sullivan, our CEO, is independent under the criteria established by the NYSE for director independence, thatindependence; (ii) Ms. PatrickSen and Messrs. Sullivan and McNamaraEnglish meet the additional independence requirements of the NYSE and the SEC applicable to Audit Committee membersmembers; and that(iii) Ms. Tocio and Messrs. Hitch Sullivan, Mahoney and McNamaraEnglish meet and Mr. Bekenstein met, the additional independence requirements of the NYSE and the SEC applicable to Compensation Committee

members. In making its determination with respect to Ms. Rodriguez, the Board considered her position with Univision Communications Inc., as we have advertised on Univision for many years. After reviewing the transactions and our business relationship with Univision, the Board determined that Ms. Rodriguez does not have a direct or indirect material interest in the transactions and that our business relationship with Univision (which predates Ms. Rodriguez’s election to the Board) does not impair her independence.

 

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Meeting Attendance

During our fiscal year ended January 28, 2017,2019, the Board held fiveseven meetings. Each director attended at least 75%85% of the meetings of the Board and of the committees of which such director was a member during this period.

We invite all incumbent directors, as well as all nominees for election as director, to attend the Annual Meeting, but we do not have a formal attendance requirement. Eight of ourthe nine directors then in office attended our 20162019 annual meeting of stockholders.

Executive Sessions

Ournon-employee, independent directors meet in separate executive sessions without management during regularly scheduled Board meetings to review matters concerning the relationship of the Board with

management and such other matters as deemed appropriate. The Lead Independent Director or the independent Chairman, as applicable, presides over executive sessions of the independent directors.

Communications with the Board of Directors

Stockholders and other interested parties may communicate directly with the Board, the independent directors as a group or specified individual directors by writing to such individual or group care of our Secretary at the following address: Burlington Stores, Inc., 2006 Route 130 North, Burlington, New Jersey 08016. Stockholders and others can also communicate complaints regarding accounting, internal accounting controls or auditing matters by writing to the Chairman of the Audit Committee care of our Secretary at the same address. Our Secretary will forward all correspondence to the relevant group or individual.

In addition, the Audit Committee has adopted a policy to ensure that procedures are in place for the receipt, retention and treatment of complaints or concerns regarding accounting, financial reporting, internal accounting controls or auditing matters of the Company, and stockholders and others can communicate complaints regarding these matters by email (BSIsubmissions@burlington.com) or by writing

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to the Chair of the Audit Committee care of our Secretary at the address set forth in the immediately preceding paragraph. Employees who have complaints may, rather than submitting such complaints directly to

the Chair of the Audit Committee, submit them confidentially and anonymously by contacting our ethics and compliance hotline, which is maintained by a third party.

Stock Ownership Guidelines

We have a long-standing approach of compensating our Chief Executive Officer andexecutives, as well as ournon-employee directors, in part with stock awards. We believe that retention of a meaningful amount of the Company’s stock encourages a long-term perspective and further aligns the interests of our Chief Executive Officer and ournon-employee directorsthese individuals with those of our stockholders. TheAccordingly, the Compensation Committee has adopted stock ownership guidelines for our Chief Executive Officer in December 2015 and our Board (upon recommendation ofproviding that (i) the Compensation Committee) adopted stock ownership guidelines for ournon-employee directors in August 2016. The guidelines provide that the (i) Chief Executive OfficerCEO should own shares of our common stock with a value equal to or exceeding four (4)six times his or her then-current base salary,salary; (ii) the Company’s executive officers and the remaining members of the Company’s executive leadership team (excluding the CEO) should own shares of our common stock with a value equal to or exceeding three times his or her then-current base salary; and(ii)(iii) non-employee directors should own shares of our common stock with a value equal to or exceeding four (4) times the annual base cash retainer paid tonon-employee directors. Compliance is measured as of the last day of the fiscal year.

Stock ownership includes shares owned directly or held in trust by the individual, as well asshares subject to unvested service-based restricted stock.stock and restricted stock unit awards, and shares representing thein-the-money value of any outstanding stock options. It does not include shares that an individual has the right to acquire through unvested performance-based restricted stock options or unexercised stock options.unit awards.

Any successor to Mr. Kingsbury and eachnon-employee director will have five years from his or her date of appointment to attain an ownership level in our common stock that complies with these guidelines and, untilUntil the required ownership level is reached, all individuals subject to the Chief Executive Officer (including Mr. Kingsbury, should he not be in compliance with thestock ownership guidelines) and eachnon-employee directorguidelines will be required to retain fifty percent (50%)50% of netthe shares acquired uponof common stock underlying equity grants received from us after giving effect to any futuretax withholding obligations arising from the vesting or exercise of restrictedsuch grants.

As of the end of fiscal 2019, each individual then subject to the stock awards after deducting shares used to pay applicable taxes (if any).

Mr. Kingsbury and eachnon-employee director (other than Mr. English, who joined the Board in November 2016) ownsownership guidelines owned shares in excess of our ownership guidelines.the applicable guideline.

Director Orientation

Director education about our companythe Company and our industry is anon-going ongoing process, which begins when a director joins the Board. Upon joining the Board, new directors are provided with an orientation about the Company, including our business, strategy and governance. During the orientation process, new directors have a series of meetings with executives responsible for each

of our business units to develop relationships and gain an understanding of the Company’s operations, strategies, challenges and opportunities. Based on input from our directors, we believe that the orientation process provides new directors with a strong foundation in our business and accelerates their effectivenessability to fully engage in Board deliberations.

Board and Committee Evaluations

The Guidelines provide that the Board and each of its committees should conduct an annual self-evaluation of its overall performance and effectiveness. As part of this process, which is overseen by the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, each director completes, on an annual basis, detailed questionnaires relating to the Board and individual directors, as well as any committees on which he or she serves. The questionnaires seek answers to questions based on numerical ratings and also seek qualitative comments on each question and any other general comments.

The

results of the assessments are compiled anonymously, and the average numerical response and any qualitative responses to each question are reviewed by the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee (as it relates to both the Board, individual directors and all committees) and each other committee (as it relates to such committee). Matters requiringfollow-up are addressed by the independent Chairman or Lead Independent Director (as applicable), the Chair of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee or the Chairs of the Audit or Compensation Committee, as appropriate.

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SelectingNomineesSelecting Nominees to the Board of Directors

Identification of Director Nominees

The Board is responsible for identifying and reviewingnominating candidates for director positions and for selecting nominees for election as directors by our stockholders and filling vacancies on the Board, in each case based on the recommendation of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee identifies nominees by first evaluating the current members of the Board willing to continue in service. Current members of the Board with skills and experience that are relevant to our business and who are willing to continue in service are considered forre-nomination. If any member of the Board does not wish to continue in service, if the Board decides not tore-nominate a member forre-election or if the Board elects to increase the size of the Board by adding a new member, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee will then identify the desired skills and experience of a new nominee. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee may, in its discretion, also engage a consultant or search firm to assist in identifying qualified individuals.

As set forth in the Guidelines, it is the policy of our Board that directors should possess the highest personal and professional ethics, integrity and values, and be committed to representing the long-term interests of theour stockholders. It is also the policy of the Board that the composition of the Board and its committees adhereadheres to the standards of independence required by the NYSE and applicable law and reflect a range of talents, ages, skills, character, diversity, and expertise sufficient to provide sound and prudent guidance with respect to the operations and interests of the Company.

Diversity and Board Tenure

The Company is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment where everyone is respected and valued. A workforce that understands our diverse customer base helps ensure that our products and message are relevant in every community where we do business. The Board’s philosophy on diversity mirrors the Company’s philosophy. In connection with the selection of nominees for director, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee strives to identify and recruit high-caliber individuals whose diverse talents, perspectives, experiences and backgrounds would preserve and enhance the inclusive environment in which the Board currently functions.

The Board also aims to maintain an appropriate balance of tenure across our directors. The charts below reflect the gender composition and board tenure of our current directors.

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Consideration of Skills and Expertise

Below we identify and describe the key skills and expertise that the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee considers in concluding a director is qualified to serve on the Board. The experiences, qualifications, attributes and skills that the Board considered in the nomination of our directors are reflected in their individual biographies beginning on page 6.12.

 

 

Leadership Experience: Directors with experience in significant senior leadership positions with large organizations over an extended period provide us with special insights. Strong leaders bring vision, strategic agility, diverse and global perspectives and broad business insight to the Company. These individuals demonstrate a practical understanding of how large organizations operate, including the importance of succession planning, talent management and how employee and executive compensation is set. They possess skills for managing change and growth and demonstrate a

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practical understanding of organizations, operations, processes, strategy, risk management and methods to drive growth.

 

 Broad-Based Business Expertise: Such expertise provides a depth of experience from which to draw on in evaluating issues, deliberating, decision-making, and making business judgments.

 

 Finance Experience: An understanding of finance and related reporting processes is important for directors. We measure our operating and strategic performance by reference to financial goals, including for purposes of executive compensation. In addition, accurate financial reporting is critical to our success. Directors who are financially literate are better able to analyze our financial statements, capital structure and complex financial transactions, and ensure the effective oversight of our financial measures and internal control processes.

 

 Industry Experience: Industry experience gives directors a practical understanding of developing, implementing, and assessing our merchandising and customer engagement strategies.

 

 

Sales and Marketing Experience: Directors with experience in dealing with consumers, particularly in the areas of marketing, marketing-related technology, advertising or otherwise selling products or

 

or services to consumers, provide us with valuable insights. They understand consumer needs and are experienced in identifying and developing marketing campaigns that might resonate with consumers, the use of technology and emerging andnon-traditional marketing media, (such as social networking ande-commerce),and identifying potential changes in consumer trends and buying habits.

 

 Information Technology and Security Experience: This experience is relevant given the importance of technology to the retail marketplace and the importance of protecting both our and our customers’ information.

 

 Public Company Board Experience: Directors who have experience on other public company boards develop an understanding of corporate governance trends affecting public companies and the extensive and complex oversight responsibilities associated with the role of a public company director. They also bring to the Company an understanding of different business processes, challenges and strategies.

 

 Business Development / Mergers and Acquisitions Experience: This experience is important because it helps in assessing potential growth opportunities.

Collectively, the composition of our Board reflects a wide range of viewpoints, backgroundbackgrounds and experience.

OutsideBoardOutside Board Policy

Our directors must be able to dedicate the time necessary for the diligent performance of their duties, including preparing for and attending Board and committee meetings. In this respect, the number of other public company boards our directors may join are generally limited to ensure that a director is not “over-boarded.“over-

boarded.” The Guidelines provide that all directors with full-time jobswho are named executive officers should not serve on the boards of more than threeone other public companies, andcompany. In addition, the Board believes that no persondirector should serve on more than fourthree other boards of public companies in addition to our Board, provided, however, that this restriction does not apply to those directors with full-time jobs that require the director to serve on the boards of other companies.Board.

Director Candidates Recommended by Stockholders

The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee considers properly submitted recommendations for candidates to the Board from stockholders. In order to nominate a director for election to the Board, stockholders must follow the procedures set forth in our Bylaws (described in more detail under the caption below entitled “Stockholder Proposals For 2018 Annual Meeting Of Stockholders”), including timely receipt by the Secretary of the Company of notice of the nominationwill consider and certain required disclosures with respect to both the nominating stockholder and the recommended director nominee. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee will evaluate director candidates properlypersons recommended by stockholders in the same manner as candidates fromit considers and evaluates other sources. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee will determine whether to interview any candidates and may seek additional information about candidates from third party sources.potential directors.

Board Refreshment

The Board and the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee frequently assess the composition of the Board and seek to strike a balance between the knowledge and understanding of our business that comes from longer-term service on the Board with the fresh ideas and perspective that can come from adding new members. The Board has determined that neither director term limits nor a

mandatory retirement age is required to strike this balance. While term limits or a mandatory retirement age could help ensure that there are new viewpoints available to the Board, they hold the disadvantage of losing the contribution of directors who over time have developed increasing insight into us and our operations, and therefore provide an increasing contribution to the Board as a whole.

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As an alternative to term limits or a mandatory retirement age, the Board believes it can continue to evolve and adopt new viewpoints through the annual evaluation process and the process for the evaluation and nomination ofnominating director candidates. In that regard, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and the Board consider each member’s length of service and openness to new ideas when consideringdetermining the appropriate slate of candidates to recommend for

nomination. The current members of the Board have served for an average of approximately four years. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and the Board believe it is important for the Board to be “refreshed” by adding new directors from time to time,time. Recent additions to the Board include Michael O’Sullivan in September 2019, Jessica Rodriguez in October 2018 and Laura J. Sen in June 2018. Currently, six of the currentour directors, or approximately 75%67% of the Board, have served for less than fivesix years.

Code of ConductandConduct and Code of Ethics

We have adopted a written Codecode of Conductconduct (the “Code of Conduct”), which applies to all of our directors, officers and other employees, including our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer and controller. The Code of Conduct establishes policies and practices that address many issues, including the health, wellness and safety of our associates; unacceptable workplace conduct and harassment and discrimination; business ethics; product safety; and compliance with anti-bribery laws. As set forth in the Code of Conduct, we will not tolerate any retaliation against one of our associates who, in good faith, asks questions, makes reports of possible violations of the Code of Conduct or company policies or assists in an investigation of suspected wrongdoing. To the greatest extent possible, all reports are responded to in a way that protects the privacy of everyone involved.

In addition to the Code of Conduct, we have also adopted a written Code of Ethics for the Chief

Executive Officer and Senior Financial Officers (the “Code of Ethics”), which applies to our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer, controller and other designated members of our management.. Copies of each code are available onin the Investor Relations section of our corporate website, www.burlingtonstores.com,which can be accessed at www.burlingtoninvestors.com, under “Investor Relations—Corporate Governance—“Governance—Governance Documents.Overview. The information contained on our website does not constitute a part of this proxy statement. We will provide any person, without charge, upon request, a copy of our Code of Conduct or Code of Ethics. Such requests should be made in writing to the attention of our Secretary at the following address: Burlington Stores, Inc., 2006 Route 130 North, Burlington, New Jersey 08016. We intend to satisfy any disclosure requirement under Item 5.05 of Form8-K regarding an amendment to, or waiver from, a provision of the Code of Conduct or the Code of Ethics that applies to our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller by posting such information onin the Investor Relations section of our corporate website, www.burlingtonstores.com,which can be accessed at www.burlingtoninvestors.com, under “Investor Relations—“Governance—Governance Overview.”

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CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Culture and Corporate Governance—Governance Documents.”

Social Responsibility

Culture

At Burlington, we have a shared commitment to behaving and conducting our business ethically and with integrity. We live by our Core Values:

Developing Trust and Respect among all members of the Burlington community. The way we do business is equally as important as the results we achieve. We have a shared commitment to conduct business ethically, and treat customers, business partners, and each other with trust and respect.

Building Strong Teams and Partnerships through collaborative work. Through collaborative teamwork, we solve complex business challenges together.

Driving Business Results by taking ownership and pride in Burlington, and getting things done well. We hold ourselves and each other accountable for our business success and have a shared sense of ownership to achieve our company goals.

Adherence to our Core Values is part of the annual performance evaluation for all associates.

With our Core Values vital to our efforts, we strive to cultivate an environment where every associate feels valued, respected, and included. Associates are given an opportunity to share their perspectives by participating in our annual associate engagement survey, which we have conducted since 2011. This is an important activity in our organization as it provides valuable feedback and helps us understand where we are succeeding and where we have opportunities to improve. The results of the annual survey are reviewed with our Board.

Corporate Social Responsibility

Our commitment to corporate social responsibility is outlined in the “Corporate Social Responsibility” section of the Investor Relations section of our corporate website, which can be accessed atwww.burlingtoninvestors.com. Included in this section of the website is our first annual Corporate Social Responsibility report (covering fiscal 2018), which highlights our corporate social responsibility efforts including focus areas covering environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues of greatest importance to our business and stakeholders. Our corporate social responsibility efforts, which our Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee oversees, are reflected across the following five pillars:

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Our Associates. Attracting, developing, and retaining top talent is one of Burlington’s primary growth strategies because we know that our success depends on cultivating an engaged and motivated workforce. Our goal is to create an environment where associates are focused on driving results and everyone feels welcome and empowered to build a career.

Our Community. Burlington is a caring company that gives back to its local and global community through established philanthropic programs that reflect the values of our team and rapid response efforts to unexpected disasters.

Our Environment. We understand that a successful business is one that manages its impacts and acts as a responsible steward of the environment Today’s environmental challenges—from climate change to pollution to resource scarcity—mean that all companies should prioritize sustainability, and at Burlington, we are doing our part.

Our Supply Chain. Our commitment to ESG issues extends beyond our direct operations, as we factor ESG considerations into our global supply chain. Issues such as human rights, environmental impacts and responsible sourcing all inform how we manage the suppliers we use to stock our facilities and stores.

Our Governance and Ethics. Having a strong standard of ethical business practices and governance systems is key to our success as a business. These standards serve as a foundation for all of Burlington’s operations, from how risk is managed, to how employees treat one another, to accountability structures within the top levels of the organization.

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BOARD COMMITTEESBoard Committees

We have three standing committees: the Audit Committee, the Compensation Committee and the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. The Board is responsible for the appointment of committee members and committee chairs, taking into account the desirespreferences of individual members and the recommendations of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and of the Chairman. Pursuant to the Guidelines, the Board considers the rotation of committee membership and chairs at appropriate intervals, although the Board does not believe that rotation should be mandated as a policy.

Each standing committee has a written charter approved by the Board. A copy of each charter is available onin the Investor Relations section of our corporate website, www.burlingtonstores.com,which can be accessed at www.burlingtoninvestors.com, under “Investor Relations—Corporate Governance—“Governance—Governance Documents.Overview.” The members of each standing committee, as of the date of this proxy statement,Proxy Statement, are identified in the following table:

 

  DirectorAudit
Committee
Compensation
Committee
Nominating and  
Corporate
Governance
Committee

DIRECTORTed English

  AUDIT
COMMITTEE
  COMPENSATION
COMMITTEE
  NOMINATING
AND
CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE
COMMITTEE

Jordan Hitch

    Chair  X

John J. MahoneyWilliam P. McNamara

    X  Chair

William McNamaraJessica Rodriguez

  XX  

Tricia PatrickLaura J. Sen

  X    

Paul J. Sullivan

  Chair  X  

Mary Ann Tocio

  Chair

Audit Committee

The purpose of the Audit Committee, as set forth in the Audit Committee charter, is primarily to assist the Board in fulfilling its oversight responsibility relating to:

  the integrity of the Company’s financial statements and its financial reporting process;

  the systems of internal accounting and financial controls;

  the performance of the Company’s internal audit function and independent auditor;

  the independent auditor’s qualifications and independence; and

  the Company’s compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

The Audit Committee additionally provides oversight of the Company’s ethics and compliance program.

Each member of the Audit Committee has been determined by our Board of Directors to be an “audit committee financial expert” within the meaning of Item 407 of RegulationS-K promulgated under the Exchange Act, and each of them meet the requirements for financial literacy under applicable rules and regulations.

Number of Meetings held in fiscal 2019:

8

Members:

Paul J. Sullivan (Chair)

Ted English

Laura J. Sen

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   XBOARD COMMITTEES

Audit Committee

Compensation Committee

As set forth in its charter, the Compensation Committee’s primary purpose and responsibilities are to:

  review and approve corporate goals and objectives relevant to the CEO’s compensation, evaluate the CEO’s performance according to these goals and objectives and determine and approve the CEO’s compensation based on this evaluation;

  approve total compensation for executive officers, including oversight of all related executive benefit plans;

  recommend to the Board for approval total compensation for the members of the Board;

  oversee the Company’s general incentive compensation plans and equity-based plans; and

  produce a compensation committee report on executive compensation, as required by the SEC to be included in the Company’s annual proxy statement or Annual Report on Form10-K filed with the SEC.

Effective February 19, 2020, Jordan Hitch joined the Compensation Committee and was appointed Chair. John Mahoney relinquished his position on the Compensation Committee effective as of the appointment of Mr. Hitch. For additional description of the Compensation Committee’s processes and procedures for consideration and determination of executive officer compensation, see the section below entitled “Compensation Discussion and Analysis.”

Number of Meetings held in fiscal 2019:

5

Members:

Jordan Hitch (Chair)

Ted English

Mary Ann Tocio

Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee

As set forth in its charter, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee’s primary purpose and responsibilities are to:

  develop and recommend qualification standards and other criteria for selecting new directors, identify individuals qualified to become Board members consistent with qualification standards and other criteria approved by the Board and recommend to the Board such individuals as nominees to the Board for its approval;

  oversee evaluations of the Board and the Board committees; and

  oversee matters of corporate governance.

Number of Meetings held in fiscal 2019:

4

Members:

Mary Ann Tocio (Chair)

Jordan Hitch

William P. McNamara

Jessica Rodriguez

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Burlington Stores, Inc. 2020 Proxy Statement | 29

The purpose of the Audit Committee, as set forth in the Audit Committee charter, is primarily to assist the Board in fulfilling its oversight responsibility relating to:


Director Compensation

 

the integrity of the Company’s financial statements

Compensation Philosophy

The Compensation Committee reviews director compensation at least annually and its financial reporting process;

the systems of internal accounting and financial controls;

the performance of the Company’s internal audit function and independent auditor;

the independent auditor’s qualifications and independence; and

the Company’s compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

The Audit Committee held eight meetings during our fiscal year ended January 28, 2017 (“fiscal 2016”). On May 18, 2016, Tricia Patrick was appointed as a member of the Audit Committee. John Mahoney relinquished his position on the Audit Committee effective as of the appointment of Ms. Patrick. Ms. Patrick previously served on the Audit Committee from November 2012 (prior to our IPO in October 2013) through September 2014. Mr. Sullivan and Ms. Patrick have been determined by our Board of Directors to be “audit committee financial experts” within the meaning of Item 407 of RegulationS-K. All of the members of the Audit Committee meet the requirements for financial literacy under applicable rules and regulations.

Prior to the relinquishment of his position on the Audit Committee, Mr. Mahoney simultaneously served on the Audit Committee and on the audit committees of three other public companies. Based on Mr. Mahoney’s substantial financial expertise, including his experience as a public company chief financial officer and in public accounting, the Board determined that such simultaneous service did not impair the ability of Mr. Mahoney to effectively serve on the Audit Committee.

Compensation Committee

As set forth in its charter, the Compensation Committee’s primary purpose and responsibilities are:

to review and approve corporate goals and objectives relevant to the Chief Executive Officer’s compensation, to evaluate the Chief Executive Officer’s performance according to these goals and objectives and to determine and approve the Chief Executive Officer’s compensation level based on this evaluation;

to screen and recommendrecommends changes to the Board for approval individuals qualified to become Chief Executive Officer of the Company;

to recommend to the Board for approval total compensation for the members of the Board and to approve total compensation for executive vice presidents and officers above that level, including oversight of all related executive benefit plans;

to oversee the Company’s general incentive compensation plans and equity-based plans; and

to produce a compensation committee report on executive compensation as required by the SEC to be included in the Company’s annual proxy statement or annual report on Form10-K filed with the SEC.

For additional description of the Compensation Committee’s processes and procedure for consideration and determination of executive officer compensation, see “Compensation Discussion and Analysis.”approval. The Compensation Committee held six meetings during fiscal 2016. Josh Bekenstein relinquished his position on the Compensation Committee effective as of March 7, 2017, the date of his resignation from the Board.

Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee

As set forth in its charter, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee’s primary purpose and responsibilities are:

assesses director compensation to develop and recommend qualification standards and other criteria for selecting new directors, identify individuals qualified to become Board members consistentalign with qualification standards and other criteria approved by the Board and recommend to the Board such individuals as nominees to the Boardcommittee requirements and for its approval;

to oversee evaluations of the Board and the Board committees; and

to overseemarket competitiveness against the Company’s compliance with ethics policies and consider matters of corporate governance.

The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee held three meetings during fiscal 2016. On May 18, 2016, Mary Ann Tocio was appointedcompensation peer group as a member of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. Frank Cooper, III relinquished his positiondescribed on the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee effective as of December 5, 2016, the date of his resignation from the Board.

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DIRECTOR COMPENSATION

Cash Retainers and Stock Awards

EachBurlington’s philosophy on compensating independent,non-management director receives compensation for his or her service asdirectors is to use a director, which consistsmix of an annual cash retainer (payable in equal quarterly installments andpro-rated for partial quarters) and an annual award of restricted stock, further aligningequity that will align the interests of our independent,non-managementdirectors with the long-term interests of our stockholders. In addition, upon their initial electionstockholders and compensate our directors fairly and competitively for the obligations and responsibilities of serving on the Board. To implement this philosophy, we target a split between cash and equity, with total target compensation at or appointment tonear the Board, independent,non-management directors receive a grant of restricted stock with a market value at the time of grant of $100,000.peer group median.

Directors who are Company employees do not receive directors’ fees or equity grants based on their Board service. Compensation provided to Messrs. Kingsbury and O’Sullivan in their capacity as executive officers is provided in the Fiscal 2019 Summary Compensation Table. Our independent,non-management directors receive compensation for his or her services as described below. All directors however, are entitled to receive reimbursement forout-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with their service on the Board. CompensationNo perquisites are provided to Mr. Kingsbury in his capacityour independent,non-management directors.

The Burlington Stores, Inc. 2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan, as an executive officer isamended and restated May 17, 2017 (the “2013 Incentive Plan”), includes a limitation of $450,000 on awards under the plan or other payments that may be made to anon-employee director during any fiscal year, provided inthat the Summary Compensation Table below. The Compensation Committee hasmaximum aggregate dollar value of awards under the responsibility for recommending2013 Incentive Plan or other payments to anon-employee director serving as Chairman of the Board the appropriate compensation fornon-employee directors.may be up to 200% of such limitation.

OurAnnual Cash Retainers

For fiscal 2019, independent,non-management directors receivereceived the following annual compensation:cash retainers:

 

A base cash retainer of $50,000;$80,000;

 

An additional cash retainer of $20,000$25,000 for the Chair of the Audit Committee;

 

An additional cash retainer of $20,000 for the Chair of the Compensation Committee;

An additional cash retainer of $15,000 for the Chair of each of the Compensation Committee and the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee;

 

An additional cash retainer of $10,000 fornon-Chair members of each of the Audit Committee, Compensation Committee and Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee; and

 

An additional cash retainer of $30,000 for the Lead Independent Director;Director.

Cash retainers are payable in equal quarterly installments and

pro-rated for partial quarters. Our directors do not receive any meeting fees.

Stock Awards

A

The Board believes that director stock ownership is a mark of strong corporate governance and provides greater alignment of interests between directors and stockholders. Accordingly, the compensation plan adopted by the Board for independent,non-management directors provides a majority of each such director’s annual compensation in Burlington stock. For fiscal 2019, each independent,non-management director received a grant of restricted stock units (RSUs) with a market value at the time of grant of $100,000,$150,000, made following the Company’s 2019 annual meeting of stockholders.

stockholders in May 2019.

Shares of restricted stock granted to our independent,non-management directorsThe fiscal 2019 RSUs vestone-third fully on eachthe first anniversary of the three anniversaries followinggrant date, subject to the grant date. All unvested sharesdirector’s continued service on the Board. The termination provisions of restricted stockthe fiscal 2019 equity grants were updated as compared to prior grants based on competitive market analysis performed by Meridian Compensation Partners LLC (“Meridian”), the Compensation Committee’s independent consultant, to help competitively position our director compensation with the Company’s compensation peer group. If a director’s service on the Board terminates prior to the full vesting of an RSU award by reason of the director’s death or retirement, such director will remain unvested following anybecome fully vested upon death or on apro-rata basis as of the date of retirement. Vesting of

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DIRECTOR COMPENSATION

RSUs does not accelerate by reason of a change in control,of control; provided, however, that 100% of such sharesRSUs will vest if the recipient loses his or her directorship (i)ceases to serve as a resultdirector following such change of a change in control (in the case of shares of restricted stock granted prior to 2016) or (ii) within the two-year period immediately following a change in control (in the case of shares of restricted stock granted after 2015). All unvested shares of restricted stock will automatically be forfeited (and will not vest) if the recipient ceases to be a member of the Board for any reason (other than as provided above in connection with a change in control)and prior to the vesting date. EachPreviously, the director hasequity grants would have vested only in connection with a

termination following a change of control. Directors are not entitled to any privileges of ownership with respect to the shares subject to RSU awards (including, without limitation, voting rights or the right to vote unvested restricted shares but cannot dispose of themreceive dividends) unless and until, and only to the extent, such shares have vested, subject to such director’s compliance with our stock ownership guidelines.become vested.

In Proposal 4 of this proxy statement, the Board is requesting stockholder approval of the Burlington Stores, Inc. 2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan (as amended and restated), which includes a limit on the amount of equity and cash compensation that can be paid to an independent,non-management director in a fiscal year.

Stock Ownership Guidelines

As described above, ournon-employee directors are subject to stock ownership guidelines, which require ownership of shares of our common stock with a value equal to or exceeding four (4) times the annual cash retainer paid tonon-employee directors. Eachnon-employee director (other than Mr. English, who joined the Board in November 2016) owns shares in excess of our ownership guidelines.

Fiscal 20162019 Director Compensation

The table below summarizes the compensation paid to our independent,non-management directors for fiscal 2016.2019.

 

Name

  Fees
Earned
or Paid
in Cash
($)(10)
   Stock
Awards
($)(11)
   Option
Awards
($)
   Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation
($)
   Change in
Pension Value
and
Nonqualified
Deferred
Compensation
Earnings
($)
   All Other
Compensation
($)
   Total
($)
 

Joshua Bekenstein (1)

   60,000    100,020    —      —      —      —      160,020 

Frank Cooper, III (2)

   51,099    100,020    —      —      —      —      151,119 

Ted English (3)

   10,302    100,033    —      —      —      —      110,335 

Jordan Hitch (4)

   75,000    100,020    —      —      —      —      175,020 

John J. Mahoney (5)

   103,220    100,020    —      —      —      —      203,240 

William McNamara (6)

   70,000    100,020    —      —      —      —      170,020 

Tricia Patrick (7)

   57,028    100,020    —      —      —      —      157,048 

Paul J. Sullivan (8)

   80,000    100,020    —      —      —      —      180,020 

Mary Ann Tocio (9)

   62,539    100,020    —      —      —      —      162,559 

Name

 

Fees

Earned
or Paid
in Cash
($)(1)

 Stock
Awards
($)(2)
 Option
Awards
($)
 Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation
($)
 

Change in
Pension Value
and
Nonqualified
Deferred
Compensation
Earnings

($)

 All Other
Compensation
($)
 

Total  

($)  

Ted English

   100,000   149,941   —     —     —     —     249,941  

Jordan Hitch

   90,000   149,941   —     —     —     —     239,941  

John J. Mahoney

   130,000   149,941   —     —     —     —     279,941  

William P. McNamara

   90,000   149,941   —     —     —     —     239,941  

Jessica Rodriguez

   90,000   149,941   —     —     —     —     239,941  

Laura J. Sen

   90,000   149,941   —     —     —     —     239,941  

Paul J. Sullivan

   105,000   149,941   —     —     —     —     254,941  

Mary Ann Tocio

   105,000   149,941   —     —     —     —     254,941  

 

(1)Mr. Bekenstein had 3,155 shares of unvested restricted stock outstanding as of January 28, 2017. Such shares were forfeited upon Mr. Bekenstein’s resignation from the Board in March 2017 in accordance with the terms of the underlying restricted stock grant agreements.
(2)Mr. Cooper had 3,512 shares of unvested restricted stock outstanding as of December 5, 2016, the day on which he resigned from the Board. Such shares were forfeited upon Mr. Cooper’s resignation in accordance with the terms of the underlying restricted stock grant agreements.
(3)Mr. English joined the Board on November 15, 2016. He had 1,326 shares of unvested restricted stock outstanding as of January 28, 2017.
(4)Mr. Hitch had 3,155 shares of unvested restricted stock outstanding as of January 28, 2017.
(5)Mr. Mahoney had 3,853 shares of unvested restricted stock outstanding as of January 28, 2017.
(6)Mr. McNamara had 3,512 shares of unvested restricted stock outstanding as of January 28, 2017.
(7)Ms. Patrick had 3,155 shares of unvested restricted stock outstanding as of January 28, 2017.
(8)Mr. Sullivan had 4,089 shares of unvested restricted stock outstanding as of January 28, 2017. As of January 28, 2017, Mr. Sullivan held 8,801 options to purchase shares of our common stock. Mr. Sullivan received options to purchase 22,000 shares of our common stock under the Burlington Holdings, Inc. 2006 Management Incentive Plan (as amended, the “2006 Incentive Plan”) in connection with his election to the Board in November 2012. Forty percent of those options vested on November 12, 2014, an additional 20% of those options vested on November 12, 2015, an additional 20% of those options vested on November 12, 2016 and the remaining 20% of those options are scheduled to vest on November 12, 2017. All options become exercisable upon a change in control. Unless determined otherwise by the plan administrator, upon cessation of Mr. Sullivan’s directorship, options that have not vested will terminate immediately and unexercised vested options will be exercisable for a period of 60 days. The final exercise date for the options granted to Mr. Sullivan is the tenth anniversary of the grant date.
(9)Ms. Tocio had 3,537 shares of unvested restricted stock outstanding as of January 28, 2017.
(10)

Represents the pro rata portion of each director’s annual fee as compensation for services as a director and the pro rata portion of each director’s annual fee as compensation for such director’s services as a committee member or chair, as applicable, in each case for the period of fiscal 2016 for which he or she served as a director or on the applicable committee.applicable.

(11)(2)

Amounts shown represent the aggregate grant date fair value of awards of restricted shares of our common stock.the fiscal 2019 RSU awards. The amounts shown were calculated in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718, and are based on a number of key assumptions described in Note 12 (entitled “Stock-Based Compensation”) to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in our Annual Report on Form10-K for fiscal 2016.718. Each independent,non-management director other than Mr. English was granted an award of 1,935 shares of restricted stock964 RSUs pursuant to the Burlington Stores, Inc. 2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan (the “2013 Incentive Plan”) on May 19, 2016,23, 2019, the first business day following our 20162019 annual meeting of stockholders. Mr. English was granted an award of 1,326 shares of restricted stock on November 15, 2016 upon joining the Board. The sharesRSUs granted to Mr. English have a grant date fair value per share of $75.44 and the shares granted to each other director have a grant date fair value of $155.54 per share of $51.69, eachunit, such amount representing the closing price of our common stock on the day immediately prior to the grant date in accordance with the terms of the 2013 Incentive Plan. As of February 1, 2020, (i) each independent,non-management director serving during fiscal 2019 had 964 RSUs outstanding; and (ii) each of Mr. English, Mr. Hitch, Mr. Mahoney, Mr. McNamara, Mr. Sullivan and Ms. Tocio had 358 shares of restricted stock outstanding.

In connection with the appointment of Mr. Mahoney as the independent Chairman of the Board (as further discussed above), the Board, on February 19, 2020, approved an additional annual cash retainer of $150,000 for

PROPOSAL NO. 2the independent Chairman role. The foregoing change was approved by the Board upon the recommendation of the Compensation Committee and following the completion of a competitive market analysis by Meridian to help competitively position the compensation of our independent Chairman with the peer companies used for purposes of executive compensation.

RATIFICATION OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

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Burlington Stores, Inc. 2020 Proxy Statement | 31


GeneralProposal No. 2 — Ratification of Independent Registered Certified Public Accounting Firm

We are asking our stockholders to ratifyGeneral

As described in its charter, the Audit Committee’sCommittee is directly responsible for the appointment, retention and termination, evaluation, compensation, review and oversight of the work of any registered public accounting firm engaged for the purpose of preparing or issuing an audit report or performing other audit, review or attest services for the Company, and each such registered public accounting firm must report directly to the Audit Committee.

As part of its auditor engagement process, the Audit Committee periodically considers whether to rotate its registered public accounting firm. Deloitte & Touche LLP (“D&T”Deloitte”) has been the independent registered certified accounting firm of the Company since 1983. For fiscal 2020, the Audit Committee has again selected Deloitte as ourthe Company’s independent registered certified public accounting firm to audit our financial statements. Deloitte rotates its lead audit engagement partner every five years; the Audit Committee interviews proposed candidates and selects the lead audit engagement partner.

In engaging Deloitte for fiscal 2020, the Audit Committee conducted an evaluation and selection process that included consideration of the following:

Deloitte’s performance during fiscal 2019 and in previous fiscal years, including the quality of Deloitte’s services, the sufficiency of Deloitte’s resources, Deloitte’s communications skills and Deloitte’s independence and objectivity;

Management’s assessment of the services Deloitte provided in fiscal 2019;

Deloitte’s tenure as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm and its related depth of understanding the Company’s business, operations and systems, as well as accounting policies and practices;

Deloitte’s approach and plan for the fiscal year ending February 3, 2018.audit of our financial statements and the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting;

Deloitte’s expertise and experience in the retail industry;
The experience, professional qualifications and education of the Deloitte engagement team;

A review of Deloitte’s independence program and the processes it uses to maintain independence;

The scope of Deloitte’s internal quality control program and the results of its most recent quality control reviews, including reviews by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board and Deloitte’s peers;

A review of Deloitte’s recent legal or regulatory issues that may impact its ability to provide services to us;

The appropriateness of Deloitte’s fees for its professional services; and

The relative benefits, challenges, overall advisability and potential impact of selecting a different registered public accounting firm.

After thoroughly considering the criteria set forth above, the Audit Committee and the Board believe that the continued retention of Deloitte as the Company’s independent registered certified public accounting firm is in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders. Although not required, the Board believes that it is a sound corporate governance practice to seek such ratification.stockholder ratification of Deloitte’s appointment. In the event the stockholders do not ratify the appointment, the Audit Committee will reconsider this appointment. Even if the appointment is ratified, the Audit Committee, in its discretion, may direct the appointment of a different independent registered certified public accounting firm at any time during the year if the Audit Committee determines that such a change would be in our and our stockholders’ best interests.

Representatives of D&TDeloitte are expected to be present at the Annual Meeting and will have the opportunity to make a statement if they desire to do so. Those representatives will also be available to respond to appropriate questions.

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PROPOSAL NO. 2 — RATIFICATION OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

The following table sets forth the aggregate fees for services rendered by D&T,Deloitte, our independent registered certified public accounting firm, during fiscal 20162019 and the fiscal year ended January 30, 2016 (“fiscal 2015”):2018:

 

   2016   2015 
   (in thousands) 

Audit Fees (1)

  $1,868   $1,833 

Audit-Related Fees (2)

   3    112 

Tax Fees (3)

   520    689 

All Other Fees

   —      —   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $2,391   $2,634 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
   2019  2018  

Audit Fees(1)

   $1,168,548   $1,338,952  

Audit-Related Fees(2)

   $   $20,374  

Tax Fees(3)

   $57,374   $131,842  

All Other Fees

   $    —  

Total

   $1,225,922   $1,491,168  

 

(1)

Audit Fees—represents fees associated with the audit of the Company’s consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements included in its Annual Report on Form 10-K and the review of the Company’s quarterly consolidated financial statementsCondensed Consolidated Financial Statements included in its Quarterly Reports on Form10-Q that are customary under the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) and statutory audits.

(2)

Audit-Related Fees—represents fees for other attestation services that were provided by our independent registered certified publicon accounting firm primarily in connection with secondary offerings of our common stock.standards or transactions.

(3)

Tax Fees—represents fees incurred in connection with a strategic tax review, the filing of tax returns, and other tax consulting services.

Policy on Audit CommitteePre-Approval of Audit and PermissibleNon-Audit Services of Independent Registered Certified Public Accounting Firm

In accordance with its charter, the Audit Committee mustpre-approve all audit and permissiblenon-audit services. The Audit Committee haspre-approved up to $100,000 in services provided by D&TDeloitte for tax consulting services on an annual basis. Additionally, the Audit Committee has delegated authority to its Chair, Mr. Sullivan, topre-approve D&T’sDeloitte’s services without consultation with the full Audit Committee, provided Mr. Sullivan presentspre-approval decisions to the full Committee at its next scheduled meeting. The Audit Committee reviews on at least a quarterly basis the services provided to date by D&TDeloitte and the fees incurred for those services. In its review of anynon-audit service fees, the Audit Committee will consider, among other things, the possible effect of the performance of such services on the independence of D&T.Deloitte. All services provided by D&TDeloitte during fiscal 20162019 and fiscal 20152018 werepre-approved by the Audit Committee or by Mr. Sullivan pursuant to the delegation described above.

Recommendation of the Board of Directors and the Audit Committee

The Board of Directors recommendsand the Audit Committee unanimously recommend that the stockholders voteFORthe ratification of the appointment of D&TDeloitte to serve as our independent registered certified public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending February 3, 2018.January 30, 2021.

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Burlington Stores, Inc. 2020 Proxy Statement | 33


PROPOSAL NO. 3

ADVISORY VOTE ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Audit Committee Report

The Audit Committee has reviewed and discussed with Burlington’s management and Deloitte & Touche LLP the audited consolidated financial statements of Burlington contained in Burlington’s Annual Report on Form10-K for the 2019 fiscal year. The Audit Committee has also discussed with Deloitte & Touche LLP the matters required to be discussed pursuant to applicable requirements of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board and the SEC.

The Audit Committee has received and reviewed the written disclosures and the letter from Deloitte & Touche LLP required by applicable requirements of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board regarding the independent accountant’s communication with the Audit Committee concerning independence and has discussed with Deloitte & Touche LLP its independence from Burlington.

Based on the review and discussions referred to above, the Audit Committee recommended to the Board of Directors that the audited consolidated financial statements be included in Burlington Stores, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form10-K for fiscal 2019 for filing with the SEC.

Submitted by the Audit Committee

Paul J. Sullivan,Chair

Ted English

Laura J. Sen

The preceding Audit Committee Report does not constitute soliciting material and shall not be deemed to be filed, incorporated by reference into or part of any filing made by us (including any future filings) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), notwithstanding any general statement contained in any such filing incorporating this report by reference, except to the extent we incorporate such report by specific reference.

34 | Burlington Stores, Inc. 2020 Proxy Statement

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Proposal No. 3 — Advisory Vote on Executive Compensation

General

We are providing our stockholders with the opportunity to vote to approve, on anon-binding, advisory basis, the compensation of our named executive officersNEOs as disclosed in this proxy statementProxy Statement in accordance with Section 14A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) and the related rules of the SEC. This vote is commonly referred to as a“say-on-pay” vote.

Under the Exchange Act, stockholders must have the opportunity to cast an advisory vote on whether the“say-on-pay” vote should be held every year, every other year, or every three years (or to abstain). The first such vote was required in 2011 for most public companies. Going forward, this“say-on-frequency” vote must occur no later than the annual meeting (or other meeting at which directors will be elected and for which compensation disclosure is required) held in the sixth calendar year after the lastsay-on-frequency vote. Accordingly, public companies that held their firstsay-on-frequency vote at their 2011 annual meeting will be required to next hold a vote on the matter at their 2017 annual meeting.

After becoming a public company in October 2013, we held asay-on-frequencyan advisory vote at our 2014 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.Stockholders to determine the frequency of holding futuresay-on-pay votes. In accordance with the advisory vote of our stockholders at that meeting, the Board determined that we will hold asay-on-pay vote every year until the next requiredsay-on-frequency frequency vote is held at our 2020this Annual Meeting of Stockholders, or until our Board of Directors otherwise determines that a different frequency for holdingsay-on-pay votes is in the best interests of our stockholders.(see Proposal 4).

The Compensation Discussion and Analysis beginning on page 4140 and the compensation tables and narrative discussion beginning on page 6362 of this proxy statementProxy Statement describe our executive compensation program and the compensation of our named executive officersNEOs for fiscal 2016.2019. The Board is asking our stockholders to cast anon-binding, advisory vote indicating their approval of that compensation by votingFORthe following resolution:

RESOLVED, that the stockholders of Burlington Stores, Inc. APPROVE, on an advisory basis, the compensation paid to its named executive officers, as disclosed pursuant to the compensation disclosure rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Compensation Discussion and Analysis, compensation tables and narrative discussion.”

As described in detail in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis, weour objective is to have a total compensation approach focused on performance-based incentive compensation that seeks to:

provide each named executive officer with compensation opportunities that are competitive with the prevailing market, are rooted in apay-for-performance philosophy and create a strong alignment of executive and stockholder interests;

tie a significant portion of each named executive officer’s compensation to our financial performance; and

promote and reward the achievement of objectivesprogram that will leadallow us to long-term growth inattract and retain executive officers of a caliber and level of experience necessary to effectively manage our business and to motivate those executive officers to drive stockholder value.
value, consistent with our Core Values.

The Compensation Committee regularly reviews our executive compensation program to ensure thatevaluate whether compensation is closely tied to aspects of our performance that our executive officers can impact and that are likely to have an impact on stockholder value. We believe that our performance demonstrates the effectiveness of our compensation program.

The vote on thissay-on-pay proposal is advisory, which means that the vote will not be binding on us. Nevertheless, our Compensation Committee values the opinions expressed by our stockholders and will review and consider the results of the vote on this proposal in connection with its regular evaluations of our executive compensation program. As noted on page 47 in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis, the Compensation Committee considered the result of last year’sour 2019 vote results, in which approximately 99%96% of all shares votedvotes cast were voted in favor of the compensation of the Company’s named executive officers. NEOs.

The advisory vote serves as an additional tool to guide the Compensation Committee and the Board in continuingdesigning an executive compensation program (i) to further align our executive compensation programofficers’ interests with the interests of the Company and our stockholders, and (ii) that is consistent with our commitment to strong corporate governance.

Recommendation of the Board of Directors

The Board of Directors unanimously recommends that the stockholders voteFORthe advisory approval of the compensation of our named executive officers.

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PROPOSAL NO.Proposal No. 4 — Advisory Vote on Frequency of FutureSay-On-Pay Votes

APPROVAL OF THE BURLINGTON STORES, INC. 2013 OMNIBUS INCENTIVE PLAN (AS AMENDED AND RESTATED)General

Our 2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan (the “Original Plan”) was adopted by our Board, and approved by our stockholders, in September 2013 in connection with our IPO. Our 2006 Incentive Plan terminated in April 2016 and, as a result, the Original Plan is our only active incentive plan.

The Original Plan provides for grants of stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, other stock-based awards and other cash-based awards to directors, officers and other employees of us and our subsidiaries, as well as others performing consulting or advisory services for us.

In February 2017,addition to providing stockholders with the Compensation Committee and the Board approved, subjectopportunity to stockholder approval,cast an amendment and restatement of the Burlington Stores, Inc. 2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan (the “Amended Plan”). If the Amended Plan is approved by stockholders, it will become effectiveadvisory vote on the daycompensation of the Annual Meeting. Outstanding awards under the Original Plan will continueour NEOs as disclosed in effectthis Proxy Statement, this year, in accordance with their terms.

The Amended Plan amends the Original Plan to update the available business criteria on which future performance goals may be based and to incorporate certain other changes. We are seeking stockholder approval of the Amended Plan, including approval of the material terms for performance awards under the Amended Plan, to give us the flexibility to granttax-efficient equity and cash incentive awards, as described in more detail below.

The most significant change incorporated in the Amended Plan is the inclusion of a new method of reducing the Amended Plan’s share reserve, which aligns with the Compensation Committee’s belief that it is important to manage stockholder dilution that could arise as a result of our equity compensation program. In an effort to mitigate the dilution that could occur as a result of the issuance of all of the shares available under the Amended Plan in the form of restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance awards or other stock-based awards (which we refer to collectively as “full value awards”), the Amended Plan, if approved, will provide that full value awards will reduce the share reserve at a ratio of 2 shares for every share subject to the full value award. In contrast, full value awards currently reduce the share reserve in the Original Plan on a1-for-1 basis. Stock options and stock appreciation rights (which we refer to collectively as “appreciation awards”) would continue to reduce the share reserve on a1-for-1 basis under the Amended Plan. This method of reducing the share reserve under the Amended Plan—commonly referred to as “fungible share” counting—is intended to balance potential stockholder dilution concerns with our desire to have flexibility to grant the types of equity awards that are most appropriate for a particular recipient in a particular set of circumstances.

On October 9, 2013, we filed a Registration Statement on Form S-8 with the SEC to register the full amount of shares of our common stock that are currently included in the aggregate share reserve under the Amended Plan.We arenot seeking to increase the number of shares available for issuance under the Amended Plan.

The actual text of the Amended Plan is attached to this proxy statement as Appendix A. The following description of the Amended Plan is only a summary of its principal terms and provisions, is not intended to be exhaustive, and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the Amended Plan itself as set forth in Appendix A.The affirmative vote of a majority of votes properly cast and entitled to vote on the proposal is required to approve the Amended Plan.

Summary of Material Changes

In addition to the fungible share counting method described above, the Amended Plan includes the following significant changes to the terms of the Original Plan:

updates the performance criteria used to develop performance goals for awarding performance-based awards to covered employees that are intended to be exempt from the limitations of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”);

establishes the maximum number of shares of common stock subject to any performance awards, stock options and SARs which may be granted to any participant during any fiscal year as 4.0 million shares, and establishes the maximum value of a cash payment made under a performance award with respect to any fiscal year as $10.0 million (rather than $6 million, as provided in the Original Plan);

includes a limitation of $450,000 on awards under the Amended Plan or other payments that may be made to anon-employee director during any fiscal year (provided that the maximum aggregate dollar value of awards under the Amended Plan or other payments to anon-employee director serving as Chairman of the Board of Directors may be up to 200% of such limitation);

for purposes of determining fair market value, references the closing price of our common stock on the trading day on which an award is granted rather than the trading day immediately prior to the date on which an award is granted;

establishes that no more than 5% of awards may have a minimum vesting term of less than one year;

documents our current policy of not applying “liberal” share counting under the Amended Plan;

removes the ability of the Compensation Committee to include a provision in a stock option grant allowing a participant to elect to exercise the option as to any part or all of the underlying shares of common stock prior to the full vesting of the option and treat such shares as restricted stock;

prohibits, for all award types, the payment of dividends before the vesting of the underlying award;

prohibits the cancellation of an appreciation award with an exercise price higher than fair market value, in exchange for another award or for cash, without stockholder approval;

provides that, in the event of a change in control, the Compensation Committee may provide for the purchase of any awards by us or an affiliate for an amount of cash equal to the excess (if any) of the fair market value (rather than the highest price per share paid in the transaction) of common stock covered by such awards over the aggregate exercise price of such awards;

reduces the threshold of beneficial ownership constituting a change in control from 50% to 40% of the combined voting power of our securities;

permits us to deduct from any payment to be made pursuant to the Amended Plan, or to otherwise require, prior to the issuance or delivery of shares of common stock or the payment of any cash under the Amended Plan, payment by a participant of any federal, state or local taxes up to the maximum statutory tax rates in the applicable jurisdictions; and

provides for a term that expires on the tenth anniversary of Board approval.

The Board believes that the approval of the Amended Plan is essential to our success. Stock options, restricted stock and other awards provided for under the Amended Plan are vital to our ability to attract, retain and motivate high performing officers, directors, employees and consultants, especially in the extremely competitive market in which we operate. The proposed modifications reflected in the Amended Plan are designed to allow us to continue to attract, retain and motivate people whose skills and performance are critical to our success. We will continue to monitor the market in which we operate and make changes to our equity compensation program to help us meet our goals, including achieving long-term stockholder value.

Important Provisions

In addition to several of the changes identified above, the Amended Plan contains a number of provisions that the Board believes are consistent with the interests of stockholders and sound corporate governance practices, including:

No repricing. Reducing the minimum option price of any stock option or stock appreciation right (“SAR”) or awarding any stock option or SAR in replacement of a canceled stock option or SAR with a higher exercise price than the replacement award, in either case without the approval of our stockholders, is prohibited.

No evergreen provision and no reload options.The Amended Plan does not provide for automatic funding additions during its term nor does it provide for the ability to grant reload options.

Compensation recoupment policy. Awards granted are subject to any recoupment policy or other arrangement that we may have in place or any obligation that we may have regarding the clawback of incentive-based compensation.

Approval for Purposes of Section 162(m)

The Amended Plan has been structured such that awards made may be able to satisfy the requirements of “qualified performance-based compensation” within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Code (“Qualified Performance-Based Awards”). In general, the Company will be able to deduct compensation in excess of $1 million paid in any one fiscal year to our Chief Executive Officer or any of our next three most highly compensated executive officers (other than our Chief Financial Officer) (collectively, “Covered Employees”), if such compensation qualifies as “performance-based compensation” under Section 162(m). Stock options and SARs granted under the Amended Plan will generally qualify as performance-based compensation. Other awards that we grant may qualify as performance-based compensation if the payment, retention or vesting of the award is subject to the achievement during a performance period of one or more performance goals selected by the Compensation Committee.

Section 162(m) requires that the material terms of performance-based awards be disclosed to and approved by stockholders. For purposes of Section 162(m), these material terms include the individuals eligible to receive compensation, a description of the performance criteria on which the performance goals are based, and the maximum amount of compensation that can be paid to an employee under the performance goal. For the Amended Plan, these terms are described below under the captions entitled “Eligibility for Participation”, “Available Shares and Award Limits” and “Performance Goals.” Stockholder approval of this proposal is intended to satisfy the stockholder approval requirements described above under Section 162(m).

Although stockholder approval is one of the requirements for exemption under Section 162(m), even with stockholder approval there can be no guarantee that awards granted under the Amended Plan will be treated as qualified performance-based compensation under Section 162(m). Furthermore, the Compensation Committee and the Board continue to have authority to grant or approve awards or compensation that are not deductible pursuant to Section 162(m).

We are seeking stockholder approval of this proposal to have the flexibility to grant Qualified Performance-Based Awards under the Amended Plan that may be fully deductible for federal income tax purposes. If our stockholders approve the Amended Plan, including the material terms for performance-based awards set forth in the Amended Plan, and assuming that all other Section 162(m) requirements are met, we may be able to obtain tax deductions with respect to certain awards issued under the Amended Plan to our Covered Employees. If our stockholders do not approve the proposal, we generally will be able to grant awards under the Original Plan until its September 30, 2023 expiration date, but our ability to deduct certain performance awards to certain executives may be limited under Section 162(m).

Summary of Amended Plan Terms

Purpose. The purpose of the Amended Plan is to provide awards that will attract, retain and motivate high performing officers, directors, employees and consultants by providing them with appropriate incentives and rewards through a proprietary interest in our long-term success and compensation based on their performance in fulfilling their personal responsibilities.

Administration. The Amended Plan will be administered by the Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors. The Compensation Committee will select the individuals eligible to receive awards, determine the

form, amount and other terms and conditions of awards; clarify, construe or resolve any ambiguity in any provision of the Amended Plan or any award agreement; amend the terms of outstanding awards; and adopt such rules, forms, instruments and guidelines for administering the Amended Plan as it deems advisable and to delegate authority under the Amended Plan to our executive officers.

Available Shares and Award Limits. There were 6.0 million shares authorized under the Original Plan. As of January 28, 2017, there were 5,789,898 shares of our common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, available for future grant.As noted above, we are not seeking to increase the number of shares available for issuance. The number of shares that will be available for issuance under the Amended Plan may be subject to adjustment in the event of a reorganization, stock split, merger or similar change in the corporate structure or the outstanding shares of common stock. In the event of any of these occurrences, we will make any adjustments we consider appropriate to, among other things, the number and kind of shares, or other property (including cash) available for issuance under the Amended Plan or covered by grants previously made under the Amended Plan and the purchase price thereof. The shares that will be available for issuance under the Amended Plan may be, in whole or in part, either authorized and unissued shares of our common stock or shares of common stock held in or acquired for our treasury. If any award granted under the Amended Plan expires, terminates or is canceled for any reason without having been exercised in full, or if any shares of restricted stock, performance awards or other stock-based awards denominated in shares of common stock awarded under the Amended Plan are forfeited for any reason, the number of shares of common stock underlying any such award shall again be available for the purpose of awards under the Amended Plan. Any shares of common stock subject to an award under the Amended Plan shall not again be made available for issuance or delivery under the Amended Plan if such shares are (i) tendered to the Company to pay the exercise price of a stock option; (ii) used to satisfy withholding taxes; or (iii) repurchased by the Company using stock option exercise proceeds. In addition, with respect to SARs settled in common stock, the number of shares of common stock equal to the number of stock appreciation rights exercised will count against the Amended Plan’s share limitations.

The maximum number of shares of common stock with respect to which incentive stock options may be granted under the Amended Plan shall be 4.0 million shares. In addition, the Amended Plan includes the following individual participant limitations: (i) the maximum number of shares of common stock subject to any performance awards, stock options and SARs which may be granted during any fiscal year may not exceed 4.0 million shares; (ii) the maximum value of a cash payment made under a performance award with respect to any fiscal year may not exceed $10.0 million; and (iii) the aggregate amount of awards under the Amended Plan granted, or other payments made, to anynon-employee director during a fiscal year may not exceed $450,000 (provided that the maximum aggregate dollar value of awards under the Amended Plan or other payments to anon-employee director serving as Chairman of the Board of Directors may be up to 200% of such limitation). There are no annual individual share limitations applicable to participants (other thannon-employee directors) on awards which are not performance awards, stock options or SARs.

Share Counting. As noted above, the Amended Plan uses a fungible share counting method, such that full value awards will reduce the Amended Plan’s share reserve at a ratio of 2 shares for every share subject to the full value award and appreciation shares will continue to reduce the share reserve on a1-for-1 basis.

No Repricing.Unless otherwise required by law, no amendment may be made without the approval of our stockholders that would decrease the minimum option price of any stock option or SAR, extend the maximum stock option term, award any stock option or SAR in replacement of a canceled stock option or SAR with a higher exercise price than the replacement award, or otherwise permit the cancellation of a stock option or SAR with an exercise price higher than fair market value in exchange for another award or for cash.

Eligibility for Participation. Members of our Board, as well as employees of, and consultants to, us or any of our subsidiaries and affiliates will be eligible to receive awards under the Amended Plan if so selected by the Compensation Committee. As of January 28, 2017, we employed approximately 40,000 people, including part-time and seasonal employees.

Award Agreement. Awards granted under the Amended Plan may be evidenced by award agreements, which need not be identical, that provide additional terms, conditions, restrictions and/or limitations covering the grant of the award, including, without limitation, additional terms providing for the acceleration of exercisability or vesting of awards, as determined by the Compensation Committee. Under the Amended Plan, no more than 5% of awards may have a minimum vesting term of less than one year.

Stock Options. The Compensation Committee will be able to grant nonqualified stock options to eligible individuals and incentive stock options only to eligible employees. The Compensation Committee will determine the number of shares of common stock subject to each option, the term of each option, which may not exceed ten years, or five years in the case of an incentive stock option granted to a ten percent stockholder, the exercise price, the vesting schedule, if any, and the other material terms of each option. No incentive stock option or nonqualified stock option may have an exercise price less than the fair market value of a share of our common stock at the time of grant or, in the case of an incentive stock option granted to a ten percent stockholder, 110% of such share’s fair market value. Options will be exercisable at such time or times and subject to such terms and conditions as determined by the Compensation Committee. Unless otherwise provided by the Compensation Committee, vested and exercisable options may be exercised for up to (i) one year from the date of termination due to death or disability, (ii) 90 days from the date of involuntary termination without cause (as such term is defined in the Amended Plan), or (iii) 30 days from the date of voluntary termination. Unless otherwise provided by the Compensation Committee, all options, whether or not vested, shall expire on the date of a participant’s termination for cause (as such term is defined in the Amended Plan).

Stock Appreciation Rights. The Compensation Committee will be able to grant stock SARs, either with a stock option, which may be exercised only at such times and to the extent the related option is exercisable (a “Tandem SAR”), or independent of a stock option(a “Non-Tandem SAR”). A SAR is a right to receive a payment in shares of our common stock or cash, as determined by the Compensation Committee, equal in value to the excess of the fair market value of one share of our common stock on the date of exercise over the exercise price per share established in connection with the grant of the SAR. The term of each SAR may not exceed ten years. The exercise price per share covered by a SAR will be the exercise price per share of the related option in the case of a Tandem SAR and will be the fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant in the case ofa Non-Tandem SAR. The Compensation Committee will also be able to grant limited SARs, either as Tandem SARsor Non-Tandem SARs, which may become exercisable only upon the occurrence of a change in control, as defined in the Amended Plan, or such other event as the Compensation Committee may designate at the time of grant or thereafter.

Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units. The Compensation Committee will be able to award shares of restricted stock or restricted stock units. Except as otherwise provided by the Compensation Committee upon the award of restricted stock, the recipient will generally have the rights of a stockholder with respect to the shares, including the right to receive dividends, the right to vote the shares of restricted stock and, conditioned upon full vesting of shares of restricted stock, the right to tender such shares, subject to the conditions and restrictions generally applicable to restricted stock or specifically set forth in the recipient’s restricted stock agreement. Payment of any dividends received with respect to restricted stock awards or restricted stock units, if any, will be deferred until the expiration of the applicable restriction period. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee, an award of restricted stock units shall not provide the participant with any rights of a holder of shares of common stock unless and until the shares of common stock underlying the award are issued to the participant.

Other Stock-Based Awards. The Compensation Committee will be able to, subject to limitations under applicable law, make a grant of such other stock-based awards under the Amended Plan that are payable in cash or denominated or payable in or valued by shares of our common stock or factors that influence the value of such shares. The Compensation Committee will be able to determine the terms and conditions of any such other awards, which may include the achievement of certain minimum performance goals for purposes of compliance with Section 162(m) and/or a minimum vesting period.

Other Cash-Based Awards. The Compensation Committee will be able to grant awards payable in cash under the Amended Plan. Cash-based awards will be in such form, and dependent on such conditions, as the Compensation Committee will determine, including, without limitation, being subject to the satisfaction of vesting conditions or awarded purely as a bonus and not subject to restrictions or conditions.

Performance Awards. The Compensation Committee will be able to grant a performance award to a participant payable upon the attainment of specific performance goals. The Compensation Committee will be able to grant performance awards that are intended to qualify as performance-based compensation under Section 162(m) as well as performance awards that are not intended to qualify as performance-based compensation under Section 162(m). If the performance award is payable in cash, it may be paid upon the attainment of the relevant performance goals either in cash or in shares of restricted stock, based on the then-current fair market value of such shares, as determined by the Compensation Committee.

Performance Goals. The Compensation Committee will be able to grant performance awards that are intended to qualify as performance-based compensation for purposes of Section 162(m). These awards may be granted, vest and be paid based on attainment of specified performance goals established by the Compensation Committee. These performance goals may be based on the attainment of a certain target level of, or a specified increase or decrease in, one or more of the following measures selected by the committee: (1) earnings per share; (2) operating income;(3) pre-tax income and earnings; (4) gross income; (5) net income, before or after taxes; (6) adjusted net income per share; (7) cash flow; (8) free cash flow; (9) gross profit; (10) gross profit return on investment; (11) gross margin return on investment; (12) gross margin or gross margin ratio; (13) operating margin; (14) working capital; (15) earnings before interest and taxes; (16) earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization; (17) return on equity; (18) return on assets; (19) return on capital; (20) return on invested capital; (21) net revenues; (22) gross revenues; (23) revenue growth; (24) annual recurring revenues; (25) recurring revenues; (26) license revenues; (27) sales or net sales; (28) sales or market share; (29) comparable store sales; (30) total stockholder return; (31) economic value added; (32) specified objectives with regard to limiting the level of increase in all or a portion of our bank debt or other long-term or short-term public or private debt or other similar financial obligations, which may be calculated net of cash balances and other offsets and adjustments as may be established by the Compensation Committee; (33) the fair market value of a share of our common stock; (34) the growth in the value of an investment in our common stock assuming the reinvestment of dividends; or (35) reduction in operating expenses.

To the extent permitted by law, the Compensation Committee will also be able to exclude the impact of an event or occurrence which the Compensation Committee determines should be appropriately excluded, such as (1) restructurings, discontinued operations, extraordinary items and other unusualor non-recurring charges; (2) an event either not directly related to our operations or not within the reasonable control of management; or (3) a change in tax law or accounting standards required by generally accepted accounting principles.

Performance goals may also be based on an individual participant’s performance goals, as determined by the Compensation Committee.

In addition, all performance goals may be based upon the attainment of specified levels of our performance, or the performance of a subsidiary, division or other operational unit, under one or more of the measures described above relative to the performance of other corporations. The Compensation Committee will be able to designate additional business criteria on which the performance goals may be based or adjust, modify or amend those criteria, to the extent permitted by law.

Change in Control. In connection with a change in control, as defined in the Amended Plan, the Compensation Committee will be able to accelerate vesting of outstanding awards under the Amended Plan. However, the forms of grant agreement adopted by the Committee for purposes of making awards of options and restricted stock provide for acceleration in connection with a change in control only upon certain terminations of employment following the change in control. In addition, such awards may be, in the discretion of the Compensation Committee, (1) assumed

and continued or substituted in accordance with applicable law; (2) purchased by us for an amount equal to the excess (if any) of the fair market value of our common stock covered by such awards over the exercise price of the awards; (3) cancelled if the price of a share of our common stock paid in a change in control is less than the exercise price of the award; or (4) terminated by delivering notice of termination to each participant at least twenty (20) days prior to the date of consummation of the change in control, and providing the participant the right to exercise in full all vested and exercisable awards, contingent on the occurrence of the change in control. The Compensation Committee will also be able to provide for accelerated vesting or lapse of restrictions of an award at any time.

Stockholder Rights. Except as otherwise provided in the applicable award agreement, and with respect to an award of restricted stock, a participant will have no rights as a stockholder with respect to shares of our common stock covered by any award until the participant becomes the record holder of such shares.

Withholding Taxes.Under the Amended Plan, we have the right to deduct from any payment to be made to a participant, or to otherwise require, prior to the issuance or delivery of any common stock or the payment of any cash under the Amended Plan, participants entitled to receive common stock or cash under the Amended Plan to pay to us the amount of any federal, state or local taxes, up to the maximum statutory tax rates in the applicable jurisdictions. Upon the vesting of restricted stock (or other award that is taxable upon vesting), or upon making an election under Section 83(b) of the Code with regard to restricted stock, participants will be required to pay all required withholding to us. The Compensation Committee may permit participants to satisfy such withholding obligations by reducing the number of shares of common stock otherwise deliverable to such participants or by delivering shares of common stock already owned by such participants. Any fraction of a share of common stock required to satisfy such tax withholding must be paid in cash.

Section 409A of the Code. The Amended Plan is intended to comply with the applicable requirements of Section 409A of the Code and shall be limited, construed and interpreted in accordance with such intent. To the extent that any award made under the Amended Plan is subject to Section 409A of the Code, it shall be paid in a manner that will comply with Section 409A of the Code.

Amendment and Termination. Notwithstanding any other provision of the Amended Plan, our Board will be able to, at any time, amend any or all of the provisions of the Amended Plan, or suspend or terminate it entirely, retroactively or otherwise, and the Compensation Committee will be able to amend any award, subject to stockholder approval in certain instances (including, without limitation, increases in the aggregate number of shares of common stock that may be issued under the Amended Plan; increases in the maximum individual participant limitations for a fiscal year; changes to the classification of individuals eligible to receive awards under the Amended Plan; extensions of the maximum option period; or alterations of the performance goals); provided, however, that, unless otherwise required by law or specifically provided in the Amended Plan, the rights of a participant with respect to awards granted prior to such amendment, suspension or termination may not be adversely affected without the consent of such participant. The Board may not amend the provisions referred to above under the caption entitled “No Repricing” without approval by our stockholders. The Amended Plan may not be amended so as to disqualify the Amended Plan under Section 422 of the Code (relating to incentive stock options).

Transferability. Awards granted under the Amended Plan generally will be nontransferable, other than by will or the laws of descent and distribution, except that the Compensation Committee will be able to provide for the transferability of nonqualified stock options at the time of grant or thereafter to certain family members.

Recoupment of Awards. The Amended Plan provides that awards granted under the Amended Plan are subject to any recoupment policy or other arrangement that we may have in place or any obligation that we may have regarding the clawback of “incentive-based compensation” under the Exchange Act or under any applicable rules and regulations promulgated by the SEC.

Effective Date; Term. No grant will be made under the Amended Plan more than 10 years after the date on which the Amended Plan is approved by the Board. Any award outstanding under the Amended Plan at the time of termination will remain in effect until such award is exercised or has expired in accordance with its terms. Upon approval of the Amended Plan by our stockholders, no further grants will be made under the terms of the Original Plan, but all outstanding awards under the Original Plan will continue to be in effect subject to the terms thereof. No award that is intended to be performance-based compensation under Section 162(m) of the Code (other than an option or a SAR) may be granted more than 5 years after the date the performance goals are approved by stockholders.

Federal Income Tax Consequences

The following is a brief summary of some of the federal income tax consequences of certain transactions under the Amended Plan based on federal income tax laws in effect as of the date of this proxy statement. This summary is not intended to be complete and does not describe federal taxes other than income taxes, or any state, local or foreign tax consequences. It is not intended as tax guidance to participants in the Amended Plan. The tax consequences of awards may vary depending upon the particular circumstances, and it should be noted that income tax laws and regulations and interpretations thereof change frequently. Participants should rely upon their own tax advisors for advice concerning the specific tax consequences applicable to them, including the applicability and effect of state, local, and foreign tax laws.

Non-Qualified Stock Options.Participants will recognize no taxable income at the time they are granted anon-qualified stock option. On exercise of anon-qualified stock option, the amount by which the fair market value of the common stock on the date of exercise exceeds the exercise price will be taxable as ordinary income.

The ordinary income recognized with respect to the transfer of shares upon the exercise of anon-qualified stock option under the Amended Plan granted to an employee will be subject to both wage withholding and employment taxes. The tax basis of common stock acquired on the exercise of anon-qualified stock optionwill be equal to the amount of any cash paid on exercise, plus the amount of ordinary income recognized as a result of the receipt of such shares. The holding period for such shares for purposes of determining short or long-term capital gain will begin upon the exercise of the option.

The Company generally will be entitled, subject to the possible application of Sections 162(m) and 280G of the Code (as discussed below), to a deduction in connection with a participant’s exercise of anon-qualified stock option in an amount equal to the income recognized.

Incentive Stock Options. In general, neither the grant nor the exercise of an incentive stock option will result in taxable income to the participant (except possible alternative minimum tax upon an exercise) or a deduction to the Company. The aggregate fair market value of common stock (determined at the date of grant) with respect to which incentive stock options can be exercisable for the first time during any calendar year cannot exceed $100,000. Any excess will be treated as anon-qualified stock option. If: (i) the participant makes no disposition of the shares acquired pursuant to an incentive stock option within two years from the date of grant or within one year from the exercise of the option; and (ii) at all times during the period beginning on the date of the grant of the option and ending on the day three months before the date of such exercise, the participant was an employee of either the Company or one of its subsidiaries, any gain or loss realized on a subsequent disposition of the shares will be treated as a long-term capital gain or loss. Under such circumstances, the Company will not be entitled to any deduction for federal income tax purposes.

If the participant disposes of the shares before the later of such dates or was not employed by the Company or one of its subsidiaries during the entire applicable period, the participant’s incentive stock option will be treated as anon-qualified stock option for income tax purposes and the participant will have ordinary income equal to the lesser of (i) the difference between the exercise price of the shares and the fair market value of the shares on the date of exercise and (ii) the difference between the exercise price of the shares and the amount

realized on the disposition. Any gain or loss realized in excess of the amount of ordinary income recognized or the loss, if any, will be treated as a capital gain or loss. The Company will be entitled to a corresponding tax deduction, subject to the application of Sections 162(m) and 280G of the Code.

Stock Appreciation Rights. The exercise of a SAR results in taxable income to the participant equal to the difference between the exercise price of the SAR and the fair market value of the common stock on the date of exercise, and a corresponding tax deduction to the Company, subject to the application of Sections 162(m) and 280G of the Code. The ordinary income recognized with respect to the exercise of a SAR under the Amended Plan granted to an employee will be subject to both wage withholding and employment taxes.

Restricted Stock/Other Stock-Based Awards. Participants receiving restricted stock may elect under Section 83(b) of the Code to include in ordinary income, as compensation at the time restricted stock is first issued, the excess of the fair market value of such shares at the time of issuance over the amount paid, if any, for such shares. Unless a Section 83(b) election is timely made, no taxable income will be recognized until such shares are no longer subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture (the “Restrictions”). However, when the Restrictions lapse, ordinary income will be recognized by the participant in an amount equal to the excess of the fair market value of the common stock on the date of lapse over the amount paid, if any, for such shares. The ordinary income recognized with respect to restricted stock will be subject to both wage withholding and employment taxes.

If a Section 83(b) election is made, any dividends received on shares which are subject to Restrictions will be treated as dividend income. If no election is made under Section 83(b) of the Code, dividends received on the common stock for the period prior to the time the Restrictions on such shares lapse will be treated as additional compensation, and not dividend income, for federal income tax purposes, and will be subject to wage withholding and employment taxes.

A participant’s tax basis in restricted stock will be equal to the sum of the price paid for such shares, if any, and the amount of ordinary income recognized with respect to the receipt of such shares or the lapse of Restrictions thereon. The holding period for purposes of determining gain or loss on a subsequent sale will begin immediately after the transfer of such shares to the participant if a Section 83(b) election is made with respect to such shares, or immediately after the Restrictions on such shares lapse, if no Section 83(b) election is made.

In general, a deduction will be allowed to the Company for federal income tax purposes (subject to the application of Sections 162(m) and 280G of the Code) in an amount equal to the ordinary income recognized by the participant with respect to restricted stock awarded pursuant to the Amended Plan.

If, subsequent to the lapse of Restrictions, such shares are sold, the difference, if any, between the amount realized from such sale and the tax basis of such shares will ordinarily result in capital gain or loss.

If a Section 83(b) election is made and, before the Restrictions on the shares lapse, the shares which are subject to such election are in effect forfeited: (i) the participant will not be allowed a deduction for the amount included in the participant’s income by reason of a Section 83(b) election; and (ii) the participant may recognize a loss in an amount equal to the excess, if any, of the amount paid for the shares over the amount received upon such forfeiture (which loss will ordinarily be a capital loss). In such event, the Company will be required to include in its income the amount of any deduction allowable to it in connection with the shares. The participant will recognize gain in an amount equal to the excess, if any, of the amount received by you upon such resale or forfeiture over the amount paid for the shares (which gain would ordinarily be capital gain).

If a participant receives restricted stock units or an other stock-based award, the participant will generally recognize ordinary income at the time that the award is settled in an amount equal to the cash and/or fair market value of the shares received at settlement. In general, a deduction will be allowed to the Company for federal income tax purposes (subject to the application of Sections 162(m) and 280G of the Code) in an amount equal to the ordinary income recognized by the participant with respect to the other stock-based award awarded pursuant to the Amended Plan.

Performance Awards. Participants will not be taxed at the time of grant of performance awards. If the performance targets and/or the other requirements for a payment of performance awards are achieved, a participant may receive distributions of common stock and/or cash. Participants will recognize ordinary income in an amount equal to any cash received and the fair market value of the common stock received long-term on the date of receipt. If a participant is an employee, the ordinary income recognized will be subject to both wage withholding and employment taxes.

A participant’s tax basis in any shares received will be equal to the sum of the price paid for such shares, if any, and the amount of ordinary income recognized by the participant with respect to the receipt of such shares. The holding period for such shares for purposes of determining gain or loss on subsequent sale will begin immediately after the transfer to the participant of such shares.

In general, a deduction will be allowed to the Company for federal income tax purposes (subject to the possible application of Sections 162(m) and 280G of the Code) in an amount equal to the ordinary income recognized by the participant.

If a participant sells such shares, the difference, if any, between the amount realized from such sale and the tax basis of such shares will ordinarily result in capital gain or loss.

Certain Other Tax Issues.In addition, (i) officers and directors of the Company subject to liability under Section 16(b)14A of the Exchange Act mayand the related rules of the SEC, we are also offering stockholders the opportunity to cast an advisory vote on the frequency of thatsay-on-pay vote. Stockholders are being asked to indicate whether the advisorysay-on-pay vote should be subjectheld every one, two or three years.

We are required to special ruleshold this advisory vote not less frequently than once every six years. We previously held the advisory vote six years ago, at our 2014 Annual Meeting of Stockholders; therefore, we are again submitting to our stockholders a proposal regarding the income tax consequences concerningfrequency of thesay-on-pay vote. In accordance with the advisory vote of our stockholders in 2014, the Board determined that we would hold asay-on-pay vote on an annual basis.

The Board recommends continuing to hold an annual advisorysay-on-pay vote. The holding of annualsay-on-pay votes has become widely accepted, and

our Board believes that an annual vote provides us with timely feedback from our stockholders on executive compensation matters. An annual advisory vote is also consistent with our Compensation Committee’s practice of conducting anin-depth review of executive compensation philosophy and practices each year, as well as our practice of engaging with our stockholders and obtaining their awards; (ii) any entitlementinput on significant corporate governance matters.

The proxy card provides four choices for voting on this proposal. As noted above, stockholders can choose whether thesay-on-pay vote should be held every year, every two years or every three years. Stockholders may also abstain from voting. Stockholders are not voting to a tax deductionapprove or disapprove the Board’s recommendation on this proposal.

Although the partvote on this proposal is advisory, the Board values the opinions of our stockholders and will take into account the outcome of the Company is subject tovote in considering the applicable federal tax rules (including, when applicable, Section 162(m) regarding the $1,000,000 limitation on deductible compensation); (iii) certain awards under the Amended Plan may be subject to the requirementsfrequency of Section 409A of the Code (regarding nonqualified deferred compensation); (iv) in the event that the exercisability or vesting of any award is accelerated because of a change of control, payments relating to awards under the Amended Plan, either alone or together with certain other payments, may constitute parachute payments under Section 280G of the Code, which excess amounts may be subject to excise taxes; and (v) the exercise of an incentive stock option may have implications in the computation of alternative minimum taxable income. In addition, Section 162(m) of the Code denies a publicly held corporation a deduction for federal income tax purposes for compensation in excess of $1,000,000 per year per person to its chief executive officer and certain other executive officers whose compensation is disclosed in this proxy statement, subject to certain exceptions (including the “performance-based compensation” exception).futuresay-on-pay votes.

Benefits to Named Executive Officers and Others

Because awards to be granted in the future under the Amended Plan are at the discretion of the Compensation Committee, it is not possible to determine the future benefits or the amounts to be received under the Amended Plan by our named executive officers or the other groups named in the table below. For grants made during fiscal 2016 to our named executive officers, please see the Grants of Plan-Based Awards table on page 64. For grants made during fiscal 2016 to our non-employee directors, please see the Fiscal 2016 Director Compensation table on page 21. Although the Original Plan was adopted in September 2013 in connection with our IPO, we did not begin making grants under the Original Plan until April 2016, when the 2006 Incentive Plan terminated. All annual long-term incentive plan awards made to our executive officers in fiscal 2016 were made under the 2006 Incentive Plan.

The table below shows the number of shares granted under the Original Plan to the named executive officers and the other groups indicated through the end of fiscal 2016.

 

Name and Position, or Group

  Number of Shares of
Restricted Stock
   Number of Shares
Underlying
Option Rights
 

Thomas A. Kingsbury, President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman

   100,000    —   

Marc Katz, Chief Financial Officer/Principal

   —      —   

Fred Hand, Chief Customer Officer/Principal

   30,000    —   

Rick Seeger, Executive Vice President of Merchandising

   —      —   

Jennifer Vecchio, Chief Merchandising Officer/Principal

   —      —   

All executive officers as a group

   130,000    —   

All employees as a group (including all officers who are not executive officers)

   165,482    31,206 

Allnon-employee directors as a group

   16,806    —   

Equity Compensation Plan Information

For information about our equity compensation plans as of January 28, 2017, please see the table under “Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans” and related disclosure on page 40.

Recommendation of the Board of Directors

The Board of Directors unanimously recommends that youthe stockholders voteFOR to hold futuresay-on-pay votes every ONE YEAR.the approval of the Burlington Stores, Inc. 2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan (as amended and restated).

36 | Burlington Stores, Inc. 2020 Proxy Statement

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OWNERSHIP OF SECURITIESOwnership of Securities

The following table describes the beneficial ownership of the Company’s common stock as of March 23, 201726, 2020 by each person known to us to beneficially own more than 5% of the Company’s common stock, each director, each named executive officer in the “Summary Compensation Table” and all current directors and executive officers as a group. The beneficial ownership percentages reflected in the table below are based on 70,258,83565,748,793 shares of our common stock outstanding as of March 23, 2017.26, 2020.

 

NAME OF BENEFICIAL OWNER (1)

  AMOUNT AND
NATURE OF
BENEFICIAL
OWNERSHIP
   PERCENT OF
COMMON STOCK
OUTSTANDING
 

T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. (2)

   9,258,444    13.2

The Vanguard Group (3)

   5,791,646    8.2

Wells Fargo & Company (4)

   3,702,389    5.3

Thomas A. Kingsbury (5)

   937,539    1.3

Marc Katz (6)

   134,116    * 

Fred Hand (7)

   103,316    * 

Rick Seeger (8)

   32,017    * 

Jennifer Vecchio (9)

   83,695    * 

Ted English (10)

   1,326    * 

Jordan Hitch (11)

   3,764    * 

John J. Mahoney (12)

   8,268    * 

William McNamara (13)

   5,542    * 

Tricia Patrick (11)

   3,764    * 

Paul J. Sullivan (14)

   8,489    * 

Mary Ann Tocio (15)

   4,338    * 

Executive Officers and Directors as a Group (13 persons) (16)

   1,398,921    2.6

NAME OF BENEFICIAL OWNER(1)

AMOUNT AND
NATURE OF
BENEFICIAL
OWNERSHIP
PERCENT OF
COMMON STOCK
OUTSTANDING

T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc.(2)

 7,204,771 10.85%

The Vanguard Group(3)

 5,973,979 9.00%

BlackRock, Inc.(4)

 4,841,741 7.29%

Capital World Investors(5)

 3,536,500 5.33%

Michael O’Sullivan(6)

 —   —  

Thomas A. Kingsbury(7)

 536,566 *

John Crimmins(8)

 23,128 *

Marc Katz(9)

 146,135 *

Jennifer Vecchio(10)

 116,386 *

Fred Hand(11)

 80,372 *

Joyce Manning Magrini(12)

 35,933 *

Ted English(13)

 4,433 *

Jordan Hitch(13)

 6,871 *

John J. Mahoney(13)

 11,375 *

William P. McNamara(13)

 7,821 *

Jessica Rodriguez(14)

 1,552 *

Laura J. Sen(14)

 1,844 *

Paul J. Sullivan(13)

 5,116 *

Mary Ann Tocio(13)

 7,445 *

Executive Officers and Directors as a Group (13 persons)(15)

 984,977 1.48%

 

*

Less than 1%

(1)

A “beneficial owner” of a security is determined in accordance with Rule13d-3 under the Exchange Act and generally means any person who, directly or indirectly, through any contract, arrangement, understanding, relationship, or otherwise, has or shares: voting power, which includes the power to vote, or to direct the voting of, such security; and/or investment power, which includes the power to dispose, or to direct the disposition, of such security. Unless otherwise indicated, each person named in the table above has sole voting and investment power, or shares voting and investment power with his or her spouse (as applicable), with respect to all shares of stock listed as owned by that person. Shares issuable upon the exercise of options exercisable on March 23, 201726, 2020 or within 60 days thereafter, as well as restricted stock unit awards scheduled to vest within 60 days of March 26, 2020, are considered outstanding and to be beneficially owned by the person holding such options or awards for the purpose of computing such person’s percentage beneficial ownership, but are not deemed outstanding for the purposes of computing the percentage of beneficial ownership of any other person. The address of our executive officers and directors is c/o Burlington Stores, Inc., 2006 Route 130 North, Burlington, New Jersey 08016.

(2)

Based on information set forth in a Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC on February 7, 201714, 2020 by T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. and T. Rowe Price New Horizons Fund, Inc. T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc.(“TRP”) reporting that, as of December 31, 2019, TRP has beneficial ownership as to, and sole power to dispose or direct the disposition of, all such shares of common stock, and has sole power to vote or direct the vote of 2,198,658 shares of common stock and sole power to dispose or direct the disposition of 9,258,444 shares of common stock. T. Rowe Price New Horizons Fund, Inc. has sole power to vote or direct the vote of 3,780,8352,240,118 shares of common stock. The number of shares held by TRP may have changed subsequent to December 31, 2019. The address of T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc.TRP is 100 East Pratt Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202.

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Burlington Stores, Inc. 2020 Proxy Statement | 37


OWNERSHIP OF SECURITIES

(3)

Based on information set forth in a Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC on February 10, 201712, 2020 by The Vanguard Group (“TVG”) reporting that, as of December 31, 2019, (i) TVG has sole power to vote or direct the vote of 41,65951,836 shares of common stock, shared power to vote or direct tothe vote 8,535of 19,803 shares of common stock, sole power to dispose or direct the disposition of 5,745,127 shares5,907,861shares of common stock and shared power to dispose or direct the disposition of

46,519 66,118 shares of common stock.stock; (ii) Vanguard Fiduciary Trust Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Vanguard Group, Inc.,TVG, is the beneficial owner of 37,98429,334 shares of common stock as a result of its serving as investment manager of collective trust accounts.accounts; and (iii) Vanguard Investments Australia, Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Vanguard Group, Inc.,TVG, is the beneficial owner of 12,21058,196 shares of common stock as a result of its serving as investment manager of Australian investment offerings. The number of shares held by the foregoing reporting persons may have changed subsequent to December 31, 2019. The address of The Vanguard GroupTVG is 100 Vanguard Boulevard, Malvern, Pennsylvania 19355.

(4)

Based on information set forth in a Schedule 13G/A filed by BlackRock, Inc. (“Blackrock”) with the SEC on January 24, 2017 by Wells Fargo & CompanyFebruary 5, 2020, reporting beneficial ownership as of December 31, 2019. BlackRock is the parent of several subsidiaries that directly hold the shares listed in the table. Of the shares listed in the table, BlackRock has sole power to vote or direct the vote of 37,2024,192,775 shares of common stock shared power to vote or to direct the vote of 858,712 shares of common stock,and sole power to dispose or direct the disposition of 37,202 shares of common stock and shared power to dispose or to direct the disposition of 3,665,187all 4,841,741 shares of common stock. The number of shares held by Blackrock may have changed subsequent to December 31, 2019. The address of Wells Fargo & CompanyBlackRock is 420 Montgomery55 East 52nd Street, San Francisco, California 94163.New York, New York 10055.

(5)

Based on information set forth in a Schedule 13G filed with the SEC on February 14, 2020 by Capital World Investors (“CWI”), a division of Capital Research and Management Company, reporting that, as of December 31, 2019, CWI has beneficial ownership as to, and sole power to dispose or vote (or direct the vote or disposition of), all such shares of common stock. The number of shares held by CWI may have changed subsequent to December 31, 2019. The address of CWI is 333 South Hope Street, Los Angeles, California 90071.

(6)

Mr. O’Sullivan commenced employment as our Chief Executive Officer in September 2019.

(7)

Stock ownership for Mr. Kingsbury reflects direct holdings as of February 1, 2020, the last day on which he served as our Executive Chairman, as well as options exercisable within 60 days thereafter.

(8)

Includes (i) 334,3337,256 shares of common stock that can be acquired upon the exercise of options exercisable on March 23, 201726, 2020 or within 60 days thereafter; (ii) 274,0197,438 shares of common stock underlying unvested restricted stock awards; and (iii) 31,335 shares234 restricted stock units scheduled to vest within 60 days of common stock held indirectly byMarch 26, 2020. Mr. Kingsbury throughCrimmins became our Chief Financial Officer in October 2019 after serving in that capacity on an interim basis since September 2019.

(9)

Stock ownership for Mr. Katz reflects direct holdings as of September 13, 2019, the Thomas A. Kingsbury 2015 GRAT.last day on which he served as our Chief Financial Officer/Principal, as well as options exercisable within 60 days thereafter.

(6)(10)

Includes (i) 18,35182,015 shares of common stock that can be acquired upon the exercise of options exercisable on March 23, 201726, 2020 or within 60 days thereafter; and (ii) 46,1506,253 shares of common stock underlying unvested restricted stock awards.awards; and (iii) 993 restricted stock units scheduled to vest within 60 days of March 26, 2020.

(7)(11)

Includes (i) 36,35128,491 shares of common stock that can be acquired upon the exercise of options exercisable on March 23, 201726, 2020 or within 60 days thereafter; and (ii) 46,15035,488 shares of common stock underlying unvested restricted stock awards.awards; and (iii) 635 restricted stock units scheduled to vest within 60 days of March 26, 2020.

(8)(12)

Includes (i) 9,35429,030 shares of common stock that can be acquired upon the exercise of options exercisable on March 23, 201726, 2020 or within 60 days thereafter; and (ii) 22,6631,837 shares of common stock underlying unvested restricted stock awards.

(9)Includes (i) 27,452 shares of commonawards; and (iii) 235 restricted stock that can be acquired upon the exercise of options exercisable on March 23, 2017 orunits scheduled to vest within 60 days thereafter; and (ii) 48,053of March 26, 2020.

(13)

Includes 358 shares of common stock underlying unvested restricted stock awards.

(10)Comprised ofawards and 964 shares of common stock underlying unvested restricted stock awards.unit awards scheduled to vest within 60 days of March 26, 2020.

(11)(14)

Includes 3,155964 shares of common stock underlying unvested restricted stock awards.

(12)Includes 3,853 shares of common stock underlying unvested restricted stock awards.
(13)Includes 3,512 shares of common stock underlying unvested restricted stock awards.
(14)Includes (i) 4,400 shares of common stock that can be acquired upon the exercise of options exercisable on March 23, 2017 orunit awards scheduled to vest within 60 days thereafter; and (ii) 4,089 shares of common stock underlying unvested restricted stock awards.March 26, 2020.

(15)Includes 3,537 shares of common stock underlying unvested restricted stock awards.
(16)

Includes our current directors (Ms. Patrick,Rodriguez, Ms. Sen, Ms. Tocio and Messrs. Kingsbury,O’Sullivan, English, Hitch, Mahoney, McNamara and Sullivan) and our current executive officers (Janet Dhillon, Joyce Manning(Ms. Vecchio, Ms. Magrini Ms. Vecchio and Messrs. Kingsbury, KatzO’Sullivan, Crimmins and Hand).

Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance

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Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act requires executive officers and directors, a company’s chief accounting officer and persons who own more than 10% of a company’s common stock to file reports of ownership and changes in ownership with the SEC. These persons are required to provide us with copies of all Section 16(a) forms that they file. Based solely on our review of these forms and written representations from our executive officers, directors and chief accounting officer, we believe that our executive officers, directors and chief accounting officer complied with all Section 16(a) filing requirements during fiscal 2016.


OWNERSHIP OF SECURITIES

Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans

The 2013 Incentive Plan was adopted in connection with the IPO. During fiscal 2016, securities were authorized for issuanceour initial public offering in 2013 (the “IPO”) and amended and restated effective May 17, 2017. Securities have been issued under both the 2006 Management Incentive Plan (the “2006 Incentive Plan”) (through the termination of such plan in April 2016) and the 2013 Incentive Plan.

The following table presents aggregated information regarding the 2006 Incentive Plan and the 2013 Incentive Plan at January 28, 2017:February 1, 2020:

 

PLAN CATEGORY

  (A)
NUMBER OF SECURITIES
TO BE ISSUED UPON
EXERCISE OF
OUTSTANDING
OPTIONS, WARRANTS
AND RIGHTS
   (B)
WEIGHTED-AVERAGE
EXERCISE PRICE OF
OUTSTANDING OPTIONS,
WARRANTS AND
RIGHTS
   (C)
NUMBER OF SECURITIES
REMAINING AVAILABLE
FOR FUTURE ISSUANCE
UNDER EQUITY
COMPENSATION PLANS
(EXCLUDING
SECURITIES REFLECTED
IN COLUMN (A))
 (A)
NUMBER OF SECURITIES
TO BE ISSUED UPON
EXERCISE OF
OUTSTANDING
OPTIONS, WARRANTS
AND RIGHTS
(B)
WEIGHTED-AVERAGE
EXERCISE PRICE OF
OUTSTANDING OPTIONS,
WARRANTS AND
RIGHTS
(C)
NUMBER OF SECURITIES
REMAINING AVAILABLE
FOR FUTURE ISSUANCE
UNDER EQUITY
COMPENSATION PLANS
(EXCLUDING
SECURITIES REFLECTED
IN COLUMN (A))

Equity Compensation Plans Approved by Security Holders

   2,646,123   $22.41    5,789,898  1,890,955 $94.17  3,280,488 

Equity Compensation Plans Not Approved by Security Holders

   N/A    N/A    N/A  N/A  N/A  N/A 

Total

   2,646,123   $22.41    5,789,898  1,890,955 $94.17  3,280,488 

For additional information concerning our equity compensation plans, see Note 12 (entitled “Stock-Based Compensation”) to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in our Annual Report on FormFiscal 201910-K10-K. for the fiscal year ended January 28, 2017.

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Burlington Stores, Inc. 2020 Proxy Statement | 39


EXECUTIVE COMPENSATIONExecutive Compensation

Compensation Discussion and Analysis

Notice Regarding Adjustments to Executive Compensation Program in Response to Recent Events

As the world addresses the evolving COVID-19 situation, so does the Company. While the basic framework for the fiscal 2019 executive compensation program was already approved in the normal course in early fiscal 2019, the Compensation Committee of our Board (the “Committee”) is working with management to evaluate the program in light of the impact of COVID-19. Accordingly, pursuant to its authority under the Annual Incentive Plan, the Committee is delaying the finalization of bonuses for its continuing NEOs (as that term is defined below) until later in fiscal 2020, after it has more clarity regarding the impact ofCOVID-19. In addition, the Committee has determined that it will delay fiscal 2020 base salary adjustments.

In light of the uncertainties created by COVID-19, the Committee has not yet finalized the Company’s fiscal 2020 executive compensation program. The Committee will carefully consider the unique set of challenges created by COVID-19 in connection with designing our fiscal 2020 executive compensation program so that we may continue to retain, incentivize and recognize our leadership team during this unprecedented time.

Executive Summary

At Burlington, we live by our Core Values:

 

Developing Trust and Respect among all members of the Burlington community.
Developing Trust and Respect among all members of the Burlington community.
Building Strong Teams and Partnerships through collaborative work.

 

Building Strong Teams and Partnerships through collaborative work.

Driving Business Results by taking ownership and pride in Burlington, and getting things done well.
Driving Business Results by taking ownership and pride in Burlington, and getting things done well.

By conducting our business in accordance with our Core Values, we strive to ensure that Burlington provides value for our stockholders and rewarding careers for our employees. We seek to attract and develop the most talented people in retail. OurWe believe that our executive compensation program reflects our Core Values, and promotes the achievement of specific annual and long-term goals by our executive management team, further aligning our executives’ interests with those of our stockholders.

This Compensation Discussion and Analysis provides an overview of our executive compensation program together with a description of the material factors underlying the decisions that resulted in the compensation provided to each individual serving as our principal executive officer during fiscal 2019, each individual serving as our principal financial officer during fiscal 2019 and our three other most highly compensated executive officers inserving as of fiscal 2016.2019 year end. These individuals are referred to collectively as our named executive officers.NEOs.

The following table identifies our named executive officers,NEOs, as well as the current positions held by such individuals:individuals as of the last day of fiscal 2019:

 

NameNamed Executive Officers(1)

  

TitleMichael O’Sullivan

Chief Executive Officer

Thomas A. Kingsbury

  President, ChiefFormer Executive Officer and Chairman

John Crimmins

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Marc Katz

  Former Chief Financial Officer/Principal

Jennifer Vecchio

President and Chief Merchandising Officer

Fred Hand

  Chief Customer Officer/Principal

Rick SeegerJoyce Manning Magrini

  Executive Vice President – Human Resources

(1)

Effective as of September 16, 2019, Mr. O’Sullivan was appointed Chief Executive Officer and Mr. Kingsbury stepped down from that position, becoming our Executive Chairman. Mr. Kingsbury resigned as our Executive Chairman, and from all other positions with the Company, including as a member of the Board, effective as of February 1, 2020. Ms. Vecchio was promoted to President and Chief Merchandising Officer effective as of April 21, 2019. Mr. Crimmins was appointed as our Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer effective as of October 9, 2019 after having served as our interim Chief Financial Officer since September 13, 2019, the date Mr. Katz resigned as our Chief Financial Officer/Principal.

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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Effective at the beginning of fiscal 2017, Mr. Seeger became Executive Vice President of Merchandising, reporting to Ms. Vecchio. Although not currently an executive officer, Mr. Seeger served as an executive officer through January 28, 2017, the last day of fiscal 2016.

The specific amounts paid or payable to our named executive officersNEOs are disclosed in the tables and narrativenarratives following this Compensation Discussion and Analysis. The following discussion cross-references tabular and narrative disclosures where appropriate.

Note on Presentation

Prior to our IPO in October 2013, but giving effect to the11-for-1 split effected in connection with the IPO, we granted equity awards in units of common stock, each unit consisting of 99 shares of Class A common stock and one share of Class L common stock. Immediately prior to the IPO, each outstanding share of our Class A common stock was cancelled, each outstanding share of our Class L common stock was converted into one share of our Class A common stock, effected for the11-for-1 split, and then reclassified into common stock. Unless otherwise indicated, all share numbers given below give effect to this reclassification.

Select Fiscal 20162019 Business Performance Highlights

We continueFor fiscal 2019, we continued to focus on the implementationexecution of our three stated long-term growth strategies, which have been reviewed with our Board.strategies. These strategies are designed to drive long-term value for our stockholders and maintain a sustainable competitive advantage:

 

Driving Comparable Store Sales Growth

Expanding, Modernizing and EnhancingOptimizing Our Retail Store BaseFleet

 

Enhancing Operating Margins

By executing against the initiatives that support theseStrong execution of our long-term growth strategies our business again performed wellresulted in solid performance for fiscal 2016.2019. Highlights of fiscal 20162019 performance compared with fiscal 20152018 include the following:

 

We generated total revenues of $5,591.0$7,286.4 million compared with $5,129.8$6,668.5 million in fiscal 2015, a 9.0% increase2018

 

Net sales increased $467.1improved $618.2 million to $5,566.0$7,261.2 million or 9.2% (inclusive of a 4.5%2.7% comparable store sales increase)

 

We earnedgenerated net income of $215.9$465.1 million compared with net income$414.7 million in fiscal 2018, an increase of $150.5$50.4 million, a 43.5% increaseand earnings per share amounted to $6.91 per share compared with $6.04 per share in fiscal 2018

 

Adjusted Net Income increased 33.1% to $232.3 million aswas $7.41 per share compared with $174.6 million last year, or $3.24$6.44 per diluted share as compared with $2.31 per diluted share, a 40.3% increasein fiscal 2018

 

Adjusted EBITDA increased $100.5improved $91.7 million to $584.6$883.9 million a 20.8% increase

Adjusted EBIT improved $73.1 million to $673.6 million

 

We opened 2552 net new stores

$299.9 million in share repurchases

A reconciliation of Adjusted Net Income (which is divided by our fully diluted weighted average shares outstanding for fiscal 2019 of 67,293 thousand to arrive at Adjusted Net Income per share), Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Net IncomeEBIT to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure (i.e., disclosure regarding how the Company calculates each such measure from its audited financial statements) is contained in the section of our Annual Report on FormFiscal 201910-K for fiscal 2016 (the “Fiscal 201610-K”) entitled “Key Performance Measures.” We define Adjusted Net Income per Share as Adjusted Net Income (as definedMeasures” beginning on page 54) divided by32. As presented, thesenon-GAAP financial measures exclude the numberimpact of fully diluted weighted average shares outstanding. Fully diluted weighted average shares outstanding starts with basic shares outstanding and adds back any potentially dilutive securities outstanding$4.2 million in management transition costs incurred during the period. Fully diluted weighted average shares outstanding is equal to basic shares outstanding if the Company is in an Adjusted Net Loss position. In Note 11 (entitled “Net Income Per Share”) tothird and fourth quarters of Fiscal 2019, or $0.06 per share.

Long-Term Performance and Stockholder Value Creation

The following graphs illustrate our January 28, 2017 Consolidated Financial Statements, we disclose the calculation of net income per diluted share, the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure to Adjusted Net Income per Share, from our audited financial statements.

As a result of our cash flow from operations and disciplined capital allocation, we were also able to return value to our stockholders during fiscal 2016 through $200 million in share repurchases. Since going public in October 2013 at $17 per share, the price of our common stock has increased significantly. On March 24, 2017, the closing price of our common stock was $94.80 per share. On January 27, 2017,strong performance over the last trading daythree years:

Net Sales ($M)

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152 weeks

Adjusted Earnings Per Share

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1Excludes management transition costs

Adjusted EBITDA ($M)

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152 weeks

2Excludes management transition costs

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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

We believe that our financial results have resulted in our delivery of significant long-term stockholder value, reflected through our cumulative stockholder return of 336% since the beginning of fiscal 2016,2015 through the closing priceend of our common stock was $80.91 per share.fiscal 2019 compared to the cumulative stockholder returns of 62% and 143% for the Standard & Poor’s (S&P) 500 Index and the S&P Retailing Index, respectively, over the same period.

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   Base Period  Indexed Returns for Fiscal Years Ended

Company /Index

    January 31,  
2015
    January 30,  
2016
    January 28,  
2017
    February 3,  
2018
    February 2,  
2019
    February 1,  
2020

Burlington Stores, Inc.

   $100.00   $107.70   $162.18   $232.01   $344.50   $435.90

S&P 500 Index

   $100.00   $97.26   $115.02   $138.45   $135.67   $161.68

S&P Retailing Index

   $100.00   $115.56   $135.54   $189.60   $203.54   $243.26

This graph assumes an initial investment of $100 and assumes the reinvestment of dividends, if any. Such returns are based on historical results and are not intended to suggest future performance.

Compensation Philosophy and ObjectivesGuiding Principles

Our overall objective is to have a compensation program that will allow us to attract and retain executive officers of a caliber and level of experience necessary to effectively manage our business and to motivate those executive officers to drive stockholder value, consistent with our Core Values.

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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

To achieve that objective, our program is designed to:the Committee utilizes the following guiding principles:

 

provide each named executive officer with compensation opportunities that are competitive with the prevailing market, are rooted in apay-for-performance philosophy and create a strong alignment of executive and stockholder interests;

Clear alignment of compensation received to the financial outcomes of the business. A majority of NEO compensation should beat-risk and vary with the performance outcomes of stockholders.

 

tie a significant portion of each named executive officer’s compensation to our financial performance; and

Engage high-performing executive talent through compelling compensation opportunities. The value and structure of compensation provided should assist in the attraction and retention of key executive talent with high-performance generally targeted above market medians.

 

promote and reward the achievement of objectives that will lead to long-term growth in stockholder value.

Foster growth and motivation through a simplified approach to compensation design. Complex compensation designs can lead to confusion and stifle motivation. Compensation arrangements should be simple and focus on broad performance factors.

Cultivate ownership of our vision and strategic direction through sound compensation policies and structure that reinforce desired behaviors.Policies and structure should support strong corporate governance and drive ownership culture among executives.

The Compensation Committee of our Board (the “Committee”) reviews our executive compensation program on an ongoing basis, including our compensation philosophy and objectives.

guiding principles.

Pay for Performance

Target Compensation Mix

Our executive pay program providesA significant emphasis on variable portion of the targeted annual compensation for our NEOs is performance-based and/or “at risk”subject to forfeiture(“at-risk”). For fiscal 2019, target performance-based compensation each componentwas comprised of which is linked to key drivers of stockholder value creation.“At-risk” compensation is only earnedannual cash incentives, performance share units (“PSUs”) and paid ifstock options. The annual cash incentives and PSUs reward performance measured againstpre-established performance levels are achieved. Byobjectives linked to the Company’s internal operating plan. The future realizable value of stock options is dependent on stock price appreciation following the grant date.

At-risk compensation was targeted to be delivered through the performance-based compensation discussed above and RSU awards. The Committee considers RSUs to beat-risk due to the subsequent vesting period and the realizable value of the awards is subject to our future stock price performance. The Committee promotes apay-for-performance philosophy and alignment between the interests of our NEOs with those of our stockholders by linking pay to our performance, the Committee seeks to align the pay of our named executive officers with the interests of our stockholders.

The chart below shows Mr. Kingsbury’s target annualized compensation mix for fiscal 2016, excluding the grant of restrictedoperating and stock provided pursuant to the January 2017 amendment of Mr. Kingsbury’s employment agreement (described in further detail below). Equity component targets reflect the reduction in value resulting from Mr. Kingsbury’spre-IPO equity grant as discussed in further detail under the caption below entitled “Long Term Incentives.” As reflected in the chart, 67% of the total annualized target compensation for Mr. Kingsbury in fiscal 2016 was “at risk.”price performance.

 

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The chart below shows the average target annualized compensation mix for fiscal 2016 for our named executive officers other than Mr. Kingsbury. Equity component targets exclude retention awards and reflect the reduction in value resulting from thepre-IPO equity grants to Messrs. Hand and Katz as discussed in further detail under the caption below entitled “Long Term Incentives.” As reflected in the chart, 54% of the average total annualized target compensation for our named executive officers other than Mr. Kingsbury in fiscal 2016 was “at risk.”


EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

 

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CEO Compensation and Cumulative Stockholder Return

The chart below illustrates Mr. Kingsbury’sO’Sullivan’s target annual compensation (as set forthmix for fiscal 2019. As reflected in the Summary Compensation Table)chart, approximately 73% of total target annual compensation was performance-based and cumulative returnapproximately 93% of the total target annual compensation for Mr. O’Sullivan was“at-risk.” This chart does not include the cash bonus or make-whole equity granted to stockholders fromMr. O’Sullivan in connection with the beginningcommencement of fiscal 2014,his employment with us as such amounts were intended to help defray certain costs relating to his relocation and to compensate him for a significant portion of the first full year following our IPO, through the endequity awards forfeited at his prior employer, which grants are further described below, and which do not represent annual elements of fiscal 2016. The chart illustrates the strong correlation between pay and the performance we are delivering to our stockholders.Mr. O’Sullivan’s compensation.

 

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The chart below illustrates the average fiscal 2019 target annual compensation mix for our continuing NEOs other than Mr. O’Sullivan (i.e., Ms. Vecchio, Ms. Magrini and Messrs. Hand and Crimmins). As reflected in the chart, approximately 62% of the average total target annual compensation was performance-based and approximately 75% of the average total target annual compensation for our current NEOs other than Mr. O’Sullivan was“at-risk.”

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(1)*Total compensation as reported

Messrs. Kingsbury and Katz are not included in the Summary Compensation TableNEO data due to their departures from the Company.

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Indexed TSR assumes $100 (i.e., 100% starting point) was invested in our common stock on February 3, 2014, the first business day of fiscal 2014
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Executive Compensation Highlights

We are proud of our accomplishments in 2016.fiscal 2019. In addition to our strong financial performance, we took steps to strengthenstrengthened our long-term executive succession planning. We also took action to further align our executive compensation program with the long-term interests of our stockholders.

Annual Incentive Plan Drives Strong Financial Performance

 

As noted above, strong execution of our long-term growth strategies resulted in solid performance for fiscal 2019. The financial component ofperformance metrics under our Annual Incentive Plan is comprised ofare Adjusted Net Income perPer Share, which was $3.24amounted to $6.98 per diluted share for fiscal 2016,2019 (compared with a target of $6.74 per share), and comparable store sales,Comparable Store Sales Percentage, which increased 4.5% inamounted to 2.7% for fiscal 2016. Each named executive officer received2019 (compared with a ratingtarget of at least “Meets Expectations” as a result of their job performance in fiscal 2016. Accordingly, each of our named executive officers earned an award3.4%). Based on these results, the formulaic payout under the Annual Incentive Plan for fiscal 20162019 would equal to 141.7%102.7% of such named executive officer’seach eligible NEO’s applicable target award. The payout under our Annual Incentive Plan for fiscal 2016 isNotwithstanding this performance and as described more fully under the caption below entitled “Annual Incentive Awards.Awards, the Committee has determined to delay the finalization of bonuses until later in fiscal 2020 in light of the evolvingCOVID-19 situation. Under the terms of the Annual Incentive Plan, the Committee retains discretion to adjust for factors it deems appropriate, such as theCOVID-19 virus.

 

We generated total revenuesIn November 2019, the Committee approved limiting the maximum amount payable with respect to the financial metric components of $5,591.0 million comparedour Annual Incentive Plan to 200% of target commencing with $5,129.8 million in fiscal 2015, a 9.0% increase, and net sales increased $467.1 millionour 2020 Annual Incentive Plan. Prior to $5,566.0 million,this change, each NEO’s award could not exceed 300% of his or 9.2% (inclusive of a 4.5% comparable store sales increase). In addition, we earned net income of $215.9 million compared with net income of $150.5 million, a 43.5% increase, and Adjusted Net Income increased 33.1% to $232.3 million as compared with $174.6 million last year, or $3.24 per diluted share as compared with $2.31 per diluted share, a 40.3% increase. Adjusted EBITDA increased $100.5 million to $584.6 million, a 20.8% increase.her target award under our Annual Incentive Plan.

Strengthened Executive Succession Planning

 

The Committee and the Board tookhave taken several actions in recent years to facilitate long-term succession planning, accommodate our recent and retention. As described above, effective atprojected growth, and recognize key executives who have made significant contributions to the beginning of fiscal 2017, Jennifer Vecchio, Marc Katz and Fred Hand were promoted to newly-created leadership positions. Ms. Vecchio is now our Chief Merchandising Officer/Principal, and is responsible for managing our merchandising and planning and allocation organizations. Mr. Katz is now our Chief Financial Officer/Principal, and is responsible for managing our finance, information technology and supply chain organizations. Mr. Hand is now our Chief Customer Officer/Principal, and is responsible for managing our stores, real estate and marketing organizations. In connection with these promotions, the Committee increased the annual base salary, Annual Incentive Plan target and Long Term Incentive Plan target of each executive. The Committee also granted (i) each executive a prorated LTIP grant on January 30, 2017 to reflect each executive’s increased Long Term Incentive Plan target; (ii) 30,000 shares of retention-based restricted common stock to Mr. Katz on January 30, 2017 that vest 100% on January 30, 2021, subject to Mr. Katz’s service through such date; and (iii) 30,000 shares of retention-based restricted common stock to Mr. Hand on June 29, 2016 that vest 100% on May 4, 2020, subject to Mr. Hand’s service through such date. All of these actions are discussed in greater detail below.

Company’s success and retention. As further discussed below the Board continued its focus on CEO succession planning in fiscal 2019, culminating with the hiring of Michael O’Sullivan as our Chief Executive Officer, replacing Thomas Kingsbury, and the promotion of Jennifer Vecchio to the position of President and Chief Merchandising Officer. The terms of Mr. O’Sullivan’s employment agreement and compensation package, as well as adjustments made to Ms. Vecchio’s compensation in connection with her promotion, are discussed below.

Further Alignment of Executive Compensation Program with Stockholder Interests

 

As described above,The Committee routinely evaluates and considers the Amended Plan contains a numbertype of changesawards granted under our Long-Term Incentive Program (“LTIP”). In February 2019, the Committee revised the LTIP, determining that 50% of the Board believes are consistentLTIP awards made to our NEOs will be granted in the form of PSUs, with vesting based onpre-established EBIT margin expansion and sales CAGR goals beginning with the interests of stockholders and sound corporate governance practices, including a “fungible share” counting methodology; a prohibition on liberal share counting; a limit onnon-employee director awards and compensation; and a prohibition offiscal 2019 LTIP awards. These changes to our LTIP are described more fully under the payment of dividends before the vesting of the underlying award.caption below entitled “Long Term Incentives.”

 

During fiscal 2016,2019, we repurchased $200$299.9 million of our common stock, continuing a share repurchase program that offsets the dilutive effect of our equity compensation. On November 15, 2016,In August 2019, the Board authorized the repurchase of up to an additional $200$400 million of common stock.

 

In August 2016,During fiscal 2019 our stock ownership guidelines were extended to include all other members of our executive leadership team effective as of the Board adoptedbeginning of fiscal 2020. Accordingly, our stock ownership guidelines for ournon-employee directors to further alignexecutives now provide that (i) the economic interests of ournon-employee directors with those of our stockholders. Pursuant to such guidelines, which are further described below under the caption entitled “Stock Ownership Guidelines,” ournon-employee directors are expected toCEO should own shares of our common stock with a value equal to or exceeding four (4)six times his or her then-current base salary; and (ii) the annual cash retainer paidCompany’s executive officers and the remaining members of the Company’s executive leadership team (excluding the Chief Executive Officer) should own shares of our common stock with a value equal to thenon-employee directors.or exceeding three times his or her then-current base salary.

 

In February 2016, the Committee adopted a compensation recoupment policy, providing that, in the event of a financial restatement or significant financial harm to the Company arising out of willful actions, including without limitation fraud or intentional misconduct, or gross negligence by any officer of the Company, the Committee shall have the discretion and authority to determine the appropriate action to take, which may include requiring relinquishment of previously awarded equity-based compensation and/or repayment of previously paid incentive cash compensation.
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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Key Features of Our Executive Compensation Program

The Company’s executive compensation program includes key features that we believe further align the interests of our named executive officersNEOs with our stockholders.

 

What We Do

Align Pay Withwith Company Financial Performance

    The compensation program for our named executive officers alignsNEOs is designed to align pay with actual Company results.results, and the Committee regularly reviews such alignment. Annual incentive awards, as well as PSU awards made to the NEOs, are based on the achievement ofpre-established goals linked to our performance.

Balance Short-Term and Long-Term Incentives

    Our compensation program providesis designed to provide an appropriate balance of short-term and long-term incentives.
Say-on-Pay

Say on Pay Frequency

    Our Board elected to have our executive compensation program considered by stockholders annually through oursay-on-pay say on pay vote (see Proposal 3)4).

Compensation Consultant

    The Committee directly engages an independent compensation consultant.

Annual Compensation Risk Assessment

    The Committee conducts a risk assessment of our compensation program on an annual basis. Based on that assessment, we have no incentivethe Committee concluded that our compensation arrangements for our executive officerspolicies and practices do not encourage behaviors that could create potential material risk for the Company.

Independent Compensation Committee

    The Board has determined that each of the membersmember of the Committee is independent under the criteria established by the NYSE for director independence and meets the additional independence requirements of the NYSE applicable to Committee members.
Chief Executive Officer andNon-Employee Director

Stock Ownership Guidelines

    We have stock ownership guidelines which provide that (i) our CEO should own shares of our common stock valued at a 6x multiple of annual base salary; (ii) each NEO (other than our CEO) should own shares of our common stock valued at a 3x multiple of annual base salary; and (iii) ournon-employee directors should own shares of our common stock valued at a 4x (four times) multiple of his or her annual base salary (for our CEO) or annual cash retainer (for ournon-employee directors).retainer.

Award Limits

    Annual Incentive Plan payouts for our named executive officersNEOs, as well as PSU awards made to our NEOs, are subject to limits on maximum payout.

Compensation Recoupment Policy

    We have a compensation recoupment policy which provides that the Committee may require relinquishment of previously awarded equity-based compensation and/or repayment of previously paid incentive cash compensation in the event of a financial restatement or significant financial harm to the Company arising out of willful actions or gross negligence by any officer of the Company.

Regularly Review Share Utilization

    Management and the Committee periodically evaluate overhang levels (dilutive impact of equity compensation on our stockholders) and annual run rates (the aggregate shares awarded as a percentage of total outstanding shares). to assess alignment with our compensation program and market practices.

What We Don’t Do

No Excise TaxGross-Ups

  x×  In the event of a change in control, none of our named executive officersNEOs are entitled to a taxgross-up of any excise taxes imposed.

No Stock Options Granted Below Fair Market Value

  x×  We do not set the exercise price of stock options at less than 100% of the fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant.

No Repricing Without Stockholder Approval

  x×  The 2013 Incentive Plan prohibits amendments that would decrease the minimum option price of any stock option or SARstock appreciation right (“SAR”) or award any stock option or SAR in replacement of a canceled stock option or SAR with a higher exercise price than the replacement award, in either case without stockholder approval.

What We Don’t Do

No Hedging or Pledging of Company Stock

  x×  Our directors and executive officers are prohibited from engaging in pledging or hedging activities involving Company securities.

No Automatic “Single-Trigger” Vesting

  x×  In the event of a change in control, our equity award grants of stock options (from and after December 2015) and restricted stock vest only uponcontain a “double trigger.”trigger” – meaning that both a change in control and qualifying termination of employment must occur for automatic vesting.

No Pension Plans or SERPs

  x×  We do not sponsor any qualified ornon-qualified defined benefit plans or supplemental executive retirement plans (SERPs).

No Guaranteed Bonuses or Salary Increases

  x×  We do not guarantee salary increases or provide guaranteed bonuses to any of our executive officers.

No Change in Control Severance Arrangements

  x×  We have no severance arrangements specific to a change in control.

No Evergreen Provision or Reload Options in 2013 Incentive Plan

  x×  The 2013 Incentive Plan does not provide for automatic fundingshare additions during its term nor does itor provide for the ability to grant reload options.

Role

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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

2019 Stockholder Say on Pay Vote and Stockholder Outreach

Stockholders overwhelmingly supported our 2019 say on pay vote, with approximately 96% of StockholderSay-on-Pay Votes

At our 2016 annual meeting, our stockholders approved, on an advisory basis, the compensation paid to our named executive officers, as disclosed pursuant to the compensation disclosure rules of the SEC, including the compensation discussion and analysis, the compensation tables and narrative discussion. The stockholder advisory votevotes cast in favor of named executive officer compensation totaled approximately 99% of all shares voted.

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favor. The Committee viewed the results of this vote as demonstrating broad general stockholder support for our executive compensation program as well as the various measures implemented prior to the 2016 annual meeting to further align our executive compensation program with stockholder interests.program. Based on these results and the Committee’s ongoing review of our compensation practices, the Committee believes that our program has been effective in implementing our compensation philosophy and objectives. Accordingly, the Committee determined not to make any significant changes to our annual executive compensation program for fiscal 2016. Nevertheless, the Committee recognizes that pay practices continue to evolve, and so willthe Committee intends to continue to refine our executive compensation program in its ongoing effort to ensure that ourdesign an executive compensation program continues to supportthat supports long-term stockholder value creation and our company culture.

We view a continuing, constructive dialogue with our long-term stockholders as important to keeping us informed on matters such asstockholder views regarding executive compensation and corporate governance. Our approach to engagement is detailed in the chart below.

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Annual Meeting Voting Publish Proxy Statement. Follow-up on previous conversations and, as necessary, seek support from stockholders for proxy proposals. Post Annual Meeting Review Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and, as needed, Board or various committees of Board, analyze and review stockholder voting and feedback and identify any topics of interest. Year-Round Engagement Analyze Engage Review Follow-up Prior to Annual Meeting Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and, as needed, Board or various committees of Board, review the feedback from outreach and discuss any potential changes to our corporate governance as importantand executive compensation practices in light of stockholder feedback. Off-Season Engagement Based on the results of the review process, Legal/Investor Relations reaches out to ensuring that our programs remain alignedstockholders to discuss topics of interest regarding corporate governance and executive compensation practices and listen to any stockholder concerns and priorities.

Our stockholder outreach efforts undertaken in connection with their interests. In 2017, we engaged withthe Annual Meeting included engaging a number of our top long-term stockholders, collectively representing over 40% of our outstanding shares as well as leading proxy advisory services firms,of December 31, 2019. The stockholders to discuss our executive compensation and corporate governance programs and seek

which we reached out either arranged for individual discussions with us or did not indicate that a meeting was necessary.

their feedback. Our engagement team compriseswas comprised of leaders from our human resources, investor relations and legal departments. WeGiven the commitment of the entire Board to understanding the perspectives of our stockholders and to considering

direct stockholder feedback, we believe that such meetings ensure that management and theengagement keeps our Board are awareinformed of our stockholders’ priorities and equippedallows the Board to address themstockholder feedback effectively.

Leadership Succession and Management Development

The Board and the Committee recognize that retention of highly-qualified leadership talent is critical to our continued strong performance and to successful succession planning. The Board (or a special committee of directors appointed by the Board) is responsible for the succession planning of the CEO, including succession in the event of an emergency, and periodically reviews the succession plan and identifies potential successors for the CEO.

The CEO reviews succession planning and management development for executive vice presidents and officers above that level (other than the CEO) with the Committee, considers, and reviews succession planning for the CEO role with the full Board, in each case on an annual basis. As part of this process, succession candidates for senior leadership positions are considered, taking into account demonstrated performance, leadership qualities and potential to take on more complex responsibilities. As part of this process, the Committee considersresponsibilities, and various factors are reviewed, including: the potential retention risk regarding incumbent senior executives and the identified succession candidates,candidates; the competitive landscape for executive talent,talent; the specific succession planning time horizon for each senior executive position,position; and the extent of disruption likely to be caused by unplanned attrition. The Board and the Committee areis focused on managing the succession process to ensure thatappropriately address leadership succession is appropriately addressed while protecting the interests of our stockholders. The Board believes that it is in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders to stage the succession of its leadership team properly so that the Board is able to undertake a thoughtful and deliberate approach to succession planning and assureto support an orderly transition to new leadership. More broadly, the Board and the Committee are regularly updated on key talent indicators for the overall workforce, including diversity, recruiting and development programs.

We operate in a highly competitive industry and, due to our strong performance, our senior executives are recognized as leaders with backgrounds, depth of experience and management skill sets that are

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attractive to competitors. The Committee believes that these executives have visibility as high-performing leaders and may be presented with other career opportunities from time to time. If the Committee believes it to be necessary, it will take appropriate compensation actions to reinforce succession planning. Such actions aremay be designed to (i) motivate the executive to forego outside career opportunities; (ii) generate value for the recipient only if he or she remains employed by us for the period of time deemed optimal for succession planning purposes; (iii) ensure a smooth transition of senior executives in key leadership positions; and/or (iv) provide for transition periods that will guard against competitive harm to us at the time of a key executive’s departure. The Committee considers succession-related actions within the context of our commitment to align pay and performance.

Succession-Related Actions

The Committee recently took several actionsBoard continued to facilitate long-termfocus on CEO succession planning accommodate our recentin fiscal 2019, and projected growth, and recognize key executives who have made significant contributions tothese efforts culminated with the Company’s success and retention. As described above, effectivehiring of Michael O’Sullivan as of our CEO, and the beginningpromotion of fiscal 2017, Ms.Jennifer Vecchio was promoted to Chief Merchandising Officer/Principal, Mr. Katz was promoted to Chief Financial Officer/Principal and Mr. Hand was promoted to Chief Customer Officer/Principal. In connection with these actions, and to strengthen retention, reward superior past performance and provide increased compensation to reflect the assumption of additional responsibilities, the Committee increased the annual base salary, Annual Incentive Plan target and Long Term Incentive Plan target of each executive. The Committee also granted (i) each executive a prorated LTIP grant on January 30, 2017 to reflect each executive’s increased Long Term Incentive Plan target; (ii) 30,000 shares of retention-based restricted common stock to Mr. Katz on January 30, 2017 that vest 100% on January 30, 2021, subject to Mr. Katz’s service through such date; and (iii) 30,000 shares of retention-based restricted common stock to Mr. Hand on June 29, 2016 that vest 100% on May 4, 2020, subject to Mr. Hand’s service through such date.

The promotions of Ms. Vecchio and Messrs. Katz and Hand were designed to secure our future leadership for the long-term by facilitating the development of a strong line of succession candidates to ensure an orderly CEO transition, an effort which we commenced in 2014. At that time, the most critical point identified by the Board in the succession process was to secure the services of Mr. Kingsbury and assure leadership stability so that we are in a position to achieve an orderly CEO transition. Under the leadership of Mr. Kingsbury, who became our President and Chief ExecutiveMerchandising Officer, in 2008, we have experienced strong sustained performance and consistent growth. We have also delivered significant value to our stockholders.April 2019. The Board believes that the continued leadershipterms of Mr. Kingsbury is central to our past and future success.

In December 2014, we entered into an amendment to Mr. Kingsbury’sO’Sullivan’s employment agreement which provides for appropriate incentivesand compensation package, as well as adjustments made to secure his continued employment through July 2019. This employment agreement amendment is more fully described below under “Narrative Disclosure to Summary Compensation Table and Grants of Plan-Based Awards Table.”Ms. Vecchio’s compensation in connection with her promotion, are discussed below.

Process for Setting Executive Officer Compensation

Role of the Compensation Committee

The Committee is tasked with discharging our Board’s responsibilities related to oversight of the compensation

of our named executive officers,NEOs, including the design and implementation of our executive compensation program, and ensuring thatdesigning our executive compensation program meetsso that it is aligned with our corporate objectives. Each member of the Committee is independent under the listing standards of the NYSE.

The Committee makes decisions regarding salaries, annual incentive awards and long-term equity incentives for our named executive officers.NEOs. The Committee is also responsible for reviewing and approving corporate goals and objectives relevant to the compensation of our named executive officers, as well as evaluating the performance of our CEO and,NEOs. The Committee, in conjunction with the CEO’s evaluation of our other named executiveNEOs, evaluates the performance of such officers evaluating performance in light of those goals and objectives. The independent directors, in consultation with the Committee, evaluate the performance of our CEO. In determining the overall level of executive compensation and establishing the design and mix of its specific elements, the Committee considers various quantitative and qualitative factors, such as Company performance,performance; individual executive performance and responsibilities,responsibilities; market data,data; competitiveness and peer practices,practices; its experience with the existing compensation program,program; results of our advisory votes on executive compensation and other stockholder feedback,feedback; recruitment, retention and succession planning,planning; contractual obligations, promotions,obligations; promotions; organizational changes, relocationschanges; relocations; and transitional roles.

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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The Committee maintains an annual cycle of executive compensation actions and addresses special actions in connection with management changes; employment agreements and executive benefits; and other Committee charter responsibilities. The Committee reviews and approves elements of compensation for our named executive officersNEOs based on the schedule below:

 

By the beginning of the fiscal year

  

  Review and approve peer group changes (if any) for new fiscal year

By the end of the first fiscal quarter

  

  Establish award opportunities and goals for Annual Incentive Plan and PSUs

 

  Grant long-term incentiveLTIP awards

 

  Approve salary adjustments

After the fiscal year endyear-end

  

  Certify performance results for completed performance cycle for Annual Incentive Plan and, when appropriate, PSUs

Role of Independent Compensation Consultant

The Committee has worked to ascertain best practices in the design of our executive compensation program. In December 2014, the Committee engaged Hay Group as itsengages an independent compensation consultant to conduct a competitive assessment of certain elements of our compensation program for our then-current executive vice presidents. The following peer group was utilized in connection with this assessment:

•    Ascena Retail Group, Inc.

•    Big Lots, Inc.

•    Belk, Inc.

•    TheBon-Ton Stores, Inc.

•    Dick’s Sporting Goods, Inc.

•    DSW Inc.

•    Foot Locker, Inc.

•    The Men’s Wearhouse, Inc.

•    Ross Stores, Inc.

The Committee’s initial development of long-term incentive targets for our executive vice presidents was informed by this assessment and other compensation considerations.

In November 2015, the Committee again engaged Hay Group as its independent compensation consultant to assist in its deliberations and decision-making regarding executive compensation. The Committee’s consultant provides current market research and analyses against which executive compensation programs and proposals can be evaluated, including a review of competitive market trends and design practices, a review of the Committee in the establishment and evaluation of a compensationCompany’s peer group, as more fully discussed below under the caption entitled “Role of Peer Companies and Benchmarking.”

The Committee engaged Korn Ferry Hay Group (“Hay Group”) as its independent compensation consultant in fiscal 2016 to conduct a competitive assessment of the compensation of our executive vice presidents and Mr. Kingsbury. The Committee’s decisions with respect to the compensation adjustments made in connection with the promotions of Ms. Vecchio and Messrs. Katz and Hand, as well as those reflected in the January 2017 amendment of Mr. Kingsbury’s employment agreement, were informed by these assessments and other compensation considerations.

market benchmarking. The Committee has sole authority to retain and terminate its consultant as well asand sole authority to approve the fees and other terms of the engagement of its consultant. The

Meridian served as the Committee’s independent compensation consultant in fiscal 2019. Meridian reports directly to the Committee. From timeCommittee and, in addition to time Hay Group provides retail peer surveys toperforming the Company. In fiscal 2016,services described above, assists the Company paid $2,400 to Hay Group for these surveys. The independent consultant does not assist the BoardCommittee on director compensation matters.

Meridian did not work for the Company’s management in any capacity in fiscal 2019. The Committee has assessed the

independence of Hay Group pursuant toMeridian from management in accordance with SEC rules and the listing standards of the NYSE rules and concluded that itsthe work for the Company doesof Meridian did not create araise any conflict of interest in connection with its service as an independent consultant to the Committee and does not impair Hay Group’s independence. BecauseCommittee.

As part of the Committee’s responsibility to review the extent to which our compensation policies and procedures Hay Group has in place (as more fully described below),practices may encourage employees to take risks that could have a material adverse effect on us, the Committee is confident that the advicedirected Meridian to complete a comprehensive review of our compensation policies and practices and reviewed it receives from executive compensation consultants at Hay Group is objective and not influenced by Hay Group’s or its affiliates’ relationships with the Company or its officers. In order to ensure that Hay Group’s compensation consultants will provide independent, unbiased advice, a compensation consultant who is providing advice toCommittee. As described below under the caption entitled “Compensation-Related Risk”, upon receiving Meridian’s assessment, the Committee is prohibited from:

providing other services to us withoutconcluded that our compensation policies and practices do not encourage behaviors that could create material risk for the prior approval of the Committee;Company.

cross-selling other services to us without the prior approval of the Committee;

receiving cash compensation that is based on fees earned by Hay Group for other services provided to us (other than services provided to the Committee) or to management;

being the overall client relationship manager when other services are provided by Hay Group; and

sharing confidential or proprietary information with other Hay Group employees, unless specifically requested by us and approved by the Committee.

The Committee evaluates the quality and objectivity of the services provided by Hay Group periodically and determines whether to continue to retain Hay Group.

Role of Peer Companies and Benchmarking

In November 2015, in anticipation of setting compensation strategies for fiscal 2016, the Committee engaged Hay Group, as its independent compensation consultant, to assist the Committee in the establishment and evaluation of a compensation peer group.

The peer group developed by the Committee, working with Hay Group, is as follows:

 

•    Abercrombie & Fitch Co.

•    American Eagle Outfitters, Inc.

•    Ascena Retail Group, Inc.

•    Big Lots, Inc.

•    Chico’s FAS, Inc.

•    Dick’s Sporting Goods, Inc.

•    Dillard’s, Inc.

•    DSW Inc.

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•    Foot Locker, Inc.

•    The Men’s Wearhouse, Inc. (now known as Tailored Brands, Inc.)

•    The Michaels Companies, Inc.

•    RossBurlington Stores, Inc.

•    Williams-Sonoma, Inc.

•    ULTA Salon, Cosmetics & Fragrances, Inc.

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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Role of Peer Companies and Benchmarking

The Committee determined thatused the above group was an appropriatecompensation peer group based on criteria that includedset forth below to evaluate fiscal 2019 compensation decisions, which was the following: annual revenues, company performance, industry/business, similar customer demographics and competition for talent. same peer group used to evaluate fiscal 2018 compensation decisions:

Abercrombie & Fitch Co.

American Eagle Outfitters, Inc.

Ascena Retail Group, Inc.

Big Lots, Inc.

Chico’s FAS, Inc.

Dick’s Sporting Goods, Inc.

Dillard’s, Inc.

Designer Brands Inc. (formerly known as DSW Inc.)
Foot Locker, Inc.

Ross Stores, Inc.

Tailored Brands, Inc.

The Michaels Companies, Inc.

ULTA Beauty, Inc.

Urban Outfitters, Inc.

Williams-Sonoma, Inc.

The Committee reviews the companies included in the peer group on an annual basis and may changein so doing considers information provided by the Committee’s independent consultant and management. The Committee determined that the above group was an appropriate peer group composition as it deems appropriate. to evaluate fiscal 2019 compensation decisions based on criteria that included the following: annual revenues; company performance; industry/business; similar customer demographics and competition for talent.

The Committee made no changes tomedian trailing twelve month revenue for the compensation peer group in 2016.is $5.3 billion (versus $7.3 billion for Burlington) and the median trailing20-trading-day average market cap as of February 7, 2020 was $1.7 billion (versus $14.9 billion for Burlington).

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In August 2019 the Committee conducted its annual review of the peer group for fiscal 2020 compensation decisions. At the time of the review, Burlington exceeded the 75th percentile on revenue and market capitalization as compared with the peer group. In light of this development and Burlington’s continued growth, the Committee, after consultation with Meridian, determined to remove Ascena Retail Group, Inc., Chico’s FAS, Inc., Tailored Brands, Inc. and Urban

Outfitters, Inc. due to their smaller size relative to Burlington and replace them with Dollar Tree, Inc., Macy’s, Inc. and The TJX Companies, Inc., which, although larger by revenue than Burlington are relevant industry comparators, as well as Tractor Supply Company, Inc., which was viewed as likely attracting similar executive talent as Burlington.

The Committee believes that an appropriate peer group is a key element of the Company’s compensation program in order to ensure thatprovide meaningful comparisons to ‘market’market compensation levels are meaningful.levels. The Committee will consider comparative compensation data of the companies in our peer group, as well as quality retail-specific surveys, as a frame of reference in assessing the competitiveness of our executive compensation levels and opportunities, and in determining the individual components of compensation, compensation practices, and the relative proportions of each component of compensation. The Committee will review market 50th percentile total compensation and target each executive within a reasonable range of the market based upon its assessment of a variety of factors, including those discussed under the caption above entitled “Role of the Compensation Committee.” Actual pay delivered will vary above or below this level based on Company performance.

While the Committee considers relevant market pay practices when setting executive compensation, it does not believe it is appropriate to establish compensation levels based only on such practices. The Compensation Committee believes that compensation decisions are complex and require a deliberate review of Company performance and peer compensation levels.

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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Role of Management

Our chief executive officerCEO makes compensation recommendations for executive officers other than himself. These recommendations are based on annual performance reviews completed by the chief executive officerCEO for each executive officer. The Committee considers these performance reviews and recommendations, among other factors, in establishing base salaries and making other compensation decisions for our named executive officers.NEOs. Our named executive officersNEOs do not play a role in their own compensation determinations.

The Committee meets in executive session (without ourthe presence of any management directors present)director) from time to time and invites executive officers to attend other portions of its meetings. In addition, members of our management team keep informed of developments in compensation and benefits matters and participate in the gathering and presentation of data related to these matters as requested by the Committee. Management periodically makes recommendations to the Committee regarding the design and implementation of our executive compensation program.

Internal Pay Relationships

Our compensation philosophy reflects the importance of offering a competitive target compensation package to our named executive officers.NEOs. The differences in pay between the named executive officers NEOs

relative to each other as well as the CEO are based on various factors, including market differences for the particular job, job responsibilities and scope, and adjustments for individual experience and performance, rather than apre-determined ratio or multiple.

Elements of Our Executive Compensation and Benefits Programs

We provide annual compensation to our named executive officersNEOs primarily through a combination of:

 

Base salary;

 

Annual cash incentives; and

 

Long-term equity incentives; andincentives

RetirementWe also provide our NEOs with retirement (401(k) Plan), health and welfare benefits, and limited perquisites.

The portion of annual executive compensation devoted to each of the elements of pay is driven by our principles and objectives as well as each named executive officer’sNEO’s role and strategic value to the organization as further described in the table below. The Committee occasionally grants other types of awards in special circumstances to reward superior past performance or support recruitment, succession planning, and retention objectives.

 

Element of Pay

  

  Form

Designed to RewardReward/Promote  Alignment with Objectives

Base Salary

  

Alignment with Objectives  Cash

Base Salary  

  Experience, knowledge in industry, duties, and scope of responsibility.responsibility and individual performance.

  

  Provides a minimum, fixed level of cash compensation to attract and retain talented executives who can continue to improve our overall performance.

Annual Cash

Incentives

  

    Success in achieving or exceeding specific  Cash

  Achievement of the Company’s annual performance goalsstrategic and objectives using metrics approved by the Committeefinancial goals; and that they believe are appropriate measures of operationalincent and reward financial and operating performance.

  

  Motivates executives to achieve specific performance goals and objectives.

Long-Term

Equity

Incentives

  

    Attainment  PSUs

  Stock Options

  RSUs

  Achievement of objectives over time, stockholder value creation and success inefficient long-term growth and development.

  Value-creating actions necessary to increase the market value of our stock.

  Executive retention, stock ownership and alignment of interests with stockholders.

  

    Motivates executives to achieve
long-term objectives.

  Aligns the executives’ interests with long-term stockholder interests in order to increase overall stockholder value.

•    Potentially In addition, this represents potentially the largest pay component, which provides an opportunity for significant compensation following strong Company performance, enabling us to attract and retain talented executives.

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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The Committee believes that we can meet the objectives of our executive compensation program by achieving a balance among these elements that is competitive with our industry peers and creates appropriate incentives for our named executive officers.NEOs. Actual annual compensation levels are a function of both corporate and individual performance as described under each compensation element below.

CEO Succession and Management Changes

As discussed above, in April 2019 Michael O’Sullivan was appointed as our new Chief Executive Officer (effective September 16, 2019). The Board believed that the hiring of Mr. O’Sullivan, a high-performing executive with significant prior experience in our sector, was critical to help continue the Company’s outstanding performance and stock price appreciation that we had experienced since our IPO in 2013 and that, in order to successfully attract Mr. O’Sullivan, it was necessary to take into account the substantial equity value he was forfeiting at his prior employer. As a result, a substantial amount of Mr. O’Sullivan’s fiscal 2019 compensation is comprised of a make-whole long-term incentive grant made to compensate Mr. O’Sullivan for a significant portion of such forfeited equity value. A discussion of Mr. O’Sullivan’s employment agreement and compensation package, as well as adjustments made to the compensation of Jennifer Vecchio in connection with her promotion to President and Chief Merchandising Officer and John Crimmins in connection with his appointment as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, are discussed below.

In making these compensation determinations, the Committee considers,considered various quantitative and qualitative factors, including the executive’s prior performance and the responsibilities associated with their roles; overall Company performance; the compensation levels paid to other executives at the Company; market data, competitiveness and peer practices; input from Meridian; and, in the case of Mr. O’Sullivan, compensation he received from his prior employer and compensation he would forfeit by joining us.

O’Sullivan Employment Agreement

Mr. O’Sullivan entered into an employment agreement with us in April 2019. The agreement, which does not have a fixed expiration date, outlines the basic terms of his employment and provides for, among other things, an initial annual base salary of $1,300,000 and

participation in our annual incentive program, with an annual target bonus opportunity of 150% of annual base salary(pro-rated for fiscal 2019). In addition, the competitivenessemployment agreement includes, among other items, provisions relating to equity awards and termination provisions, as follows:

Mr. O’Sullivan will be entitled to receive a long-term equity award (an “LTIP Award”) in each fiscal year during which he is actively serving as our CEO. Mr. O’Sullivan’s fiscal 2019 LTIP Award had a target grant date fair value equal to $8,500,000, which amount was then prorated based on the number of compensation bothdays served between the date he commenced employment and the next regularly scheduled annual equity grant date for senior executive officers. The fiscal 2019 LTIP Award was subject to the same forms of award agreement as those used with respect to the fiscal 2019 LTIP Awards granted to our other senior executive officers. Beginning in fiscal 2020, Mr. O’Sullivan’s LTIP Awards will be determined by the Committee and will be through equity vehicles and designs that are generally consistent with those awarded to our other senior executive officers.

To compensate Mr. O’Sullivan for a significant portion of the equity awards forfeited at his prior employer, Mr. O’Sullivan received a make-whole long-term incentive grant with a target grant fair value of $25,000,000, comprised of 50% time-based RSUs and 50% stock options, in each case vesting inone-third annual increments over a three year period. Based on input from Meridian, the Committee believes that the grant of such a make-whole award is consistent with market practice. The RSU and option grants comprising the make-whole award are subject to the same form of award agreements as those used with respect to the fiscal 2019 LTIP Awards granted to our other senior executive officers. The value of the make-whole equity grant was determined based on the estimated value of the equity awards outstanding with Mr. O’Sullivan’s prior employer at the time of his termination of employment and was conditioned upon the forfeiture of such prior employer awards.

In the event that Mr. O’Sullivan’s employment is terminated involuntarily other than for cause or Mr. O’Sullivan resigns for good reason, Mr. O’Sullivan is entitled to annual base salary, target annual bonus and health benefits for atwo-year period (in addition to any bonus earned under the annual incentive program with respect to the fiscal year prior to his termination of employment).

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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

In addition, Mr. O’Sullivan’s employment agreement provides for reimbursement for all reasonable moving expenses as well as aone-time payment of $250,000 intended to defray certain expenses that may be incurred in connection with his relocation to anon-temporary residence within reasonable commuting distance from our principal offices. If we terminate Mr. O’Sullivan’s employment for cause, or if he resigns without good reason within a specified period of time, he will be required to repay these amounts.

Vecchio Promotion and Crimmins Appointment

In connection with Ms. Vecchio’s promotion to the position of President and Chief Merchandising Officer, the Committee increased her base salary from $794,375 to $875,000 and her annual incentive target from 100% to 125% of base salary, and she received a 2019 LTIP grant with a value of $2,703,223.

In connection with Mr. Crimmins’ appointment to the position of Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, the Committee increased (i) the value of his next annual LTIP grant, and (ii) his base salary from $522,750 to $625,000, retroactive to the date of his appointment as interim Chief Financial Officer in September 2019.

Kingsbury Executive Chairman Agreement

Mr. Kingsbury stepped down as our CEO effective as September 16, 2019, the date on which Mr. O’Sullivan commenced employment. Upon stepping down as our CEO, Mr. Kingsbury assumed the role of Executive Chairman of the Board. The terms of individual pay elementsMr. Kingsbury service as Executive Chairman are set forth in an agreement we entered into with Mr. Kingsbury in June 2019 (the “Chairman Agreement”).

Mr. Kingsbury’s employment as Executive Chairman continued until February 1, 2020 (the period from September 16, 2019 to such date, the “Executive Chairman Term”), at which point he resigned from all positions with the Company, including as a member of

the Board, and the aggregatepost-Retirement consulting period provided for in his employment agreement commenced. During the Executive Chairman Term, (i) Mr. Kingsbury provided transition and other related services to the Company to transition his executive responsibilities to Mr. O’Sullivan and performed such other duties normally assigned to an Executive Chairman of a publicly-traded corporation; and (ii) Mr. Kingsbury’s compensation package.

and benefits continued at the same level as they had been during fiscal 2019. Pursuant to the Chairman Agreement, Mr. Kingsbury remained eligible to receive a fiscal 2019 annual incentive award, based on actual performance during fiscal year 2019. Mr. Kingsbury was not entitled to any severance upon the expiration of the Executive Chairman Term.

Base Salary

Our goal is to provide our named executive officersNEOs with base salaries that are appropriate and commensurate with position, experience and performance. Base salaries are reviewed by the Committee annually and at the time of promotion or other change in responsibilities. Generally, in making a determination of whether to make base salary adjustments, the Committee considers the following factors:

 

our success in meeting our strategic operational and financial goals;

each named executive officer’s individual performance;

 

experience with us;us and industry knowledge;

 

changes induties and scope of responsibilities of such named executive officer;responsibilities;

 

competitive market compensation paid by other companies for similar positions; and

 

annual performance reviews completed by the chief executive officer.CEO.

In addition, the Committee considers internal pay equity within our organization and, when reviewing the base salaries of our named executive officers,NEOs, their current aggregate compensation.

Pursuant to the January 2017 amendment of Mr. Kingsbury’s employment agreement, Mr. Kingsbury’s annual base salary was increased to $1,300,000 (from $1,170,283) effective as of January 22, 2017. The Board determined that the compensation adjustments included in the amendment, including the base salary increase, were appropriate in light of our strong sustained performance, consistent growth and delivery of significant stockholder value under Mr. Kingsbury’s leadership.

In connection with their promotions effective at the beginning of fiscal 2017, the Committee reviewed the base salaries of Ms. Vecchio and Messrs. Katz and Hand. After considering benchmarking data and internal pay equity considerations, as well as the desire to retain these executives for the long-term as our top leaders, reward superior past performance and provide increased compensation to reflect the assumption of additional responsibilities, the Committee increased: (i) Ms. Vecchio’s base salary from $681,260 to $775,000; and (ii) Messrs. Katz and Hand’ base salaries from $659,200 to $750,000, in each case effective as of the beginning of fiscal 2017.

The Committee reviewed the base salaries of each of the named executive officersthen serving NEOs following the end of fiscal 20162018 and, pursuant to its review, increased the then-current base salarysalaries of Mr. Seeger by 2.5% (from $634,768 to $650,637)each of our then-serving NEOs as follows effective on or aboutin April 30, 2017. In light of the salary increases received by Ms. Vecchio and Messrs. Kingsbury, Katz and Hand described above, no adjustments were made to the then-current base salary of any of these executives in connection with the Committee’s review.2019:

  NamedExecutive Officer  Base Salary
Adjustment
  Base Salary
Adjustment
  Resulting Base  
Salary

Thomas A. Kingsbury

    4.56%   $61,000   $1,400,000

John Crimmins

    2.5%   $12,750   $522,750

Marc Katz

    2.25%   $17,297   $786,047

Jennifer Vecchio(1)

    10.15%   $80,625   $875,000

Fred Hand

    2.25%   $17,297   $786,047

Joyce Manning Magrini

    2.75%   $14,094   $526,594

(1)

Ms. Vecchio’s base salary adjustment was inclusive of an increase for her promotion to President and Chief Merchandising Officer in April 2019.

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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Annual Incentive Awards

20162019 Annual Incentive Plan

Annual incentive awards are an important part of the overall compensation we pay our named executive officers.NEOs. Unlike base salary, which is fixed, annual incentive awards are paid only if specified performance levels are achieved. The Committee believes that annual incentive awards encourage our named executive officersNEOs to focus on specific short-term business and financial goals, without sacrificing our

long-term objectives. The Committee recognizes the importance of achieving an appropriate balance between supporting the Company’s objective of rewarding executives for strong performance over the short-term and establishing realistic targets that continue to motivate and retain executives. As a result, our Annual Incentive Plan provides for measurable, rigorous performance targets that are designed to be achievable but challenge our executives to drive business results that produce stockholder value.

2019 Annual Incentive Target

Under our Annual Incentive Plan, the Committee approves each named executive officer has anNEO’s annual incentive target, which is expressed as a percentage of his or her base salary in effect at the end of the fiscal year. The annual incentive target, applicable base salary and target award (equal to the annual incentive target multiplied by the NEO’s applicable base salary) for each of our named executive officersNEOs under our 20162019 Annual Incentive Plan wasis set out below. Except as follows:otherwise noted below, the fiscal 2019 target opportunities for the NEOs as a percentage of base salary did not change from the target opportunities established for fiscal 2018.

 

Named Executive Officer

  Annual Incentive Target Base Salary At End of Fiscal 2016   Target Award   

Annual Incentive

Target

  

Base Salary At End

of Fiscal 2019

  

Target

Award

Michael O’Sullivan

   150%   $1,300,000   $1,950,000  

Thomas A. Kingsbury

   150 $1,300,000    1,950,000    150%   $1,400,000   $2,100,000  

John Crimmins

   75%   $625,000   $468,750  

Marc Katz

   75 $659,200    494,400    100%   $786,047(1)    $786,047  

Jennifer Vecchio(2)

   125%   $875,000   $1,047,476  

Fred Hand

   75 $659,200    494,400    100%   $786,047   $786,047  

Rick Seeger

   75 $634,768    476,076 

Jennifer Vecchio(2)

   75 $681,260    510,945 

Joyce Manning Magrini

   75%   $526,594   $394,946  

In connection with their promotions, the Committee increased the annual incentive targets for Mr. Katz, Mr. Hand and Ms. Vecchio from 75% to 100%, and such increases are effective with respect to our 2017 Annual Incentive Plan.

(1)

Represents base salary at the time of Mr. Katz’s resignation in September 2019. As a result of his separation from the Company, Mr. Katz forfeited his fiscal 2019 annual incentive award.

(2)

In connection with her promotion from Principal/Chief Merchandising Officer to President and Chief Merchandising Officer in April 2019, Ms. Vecchio’s target opportunity was increased from 100% to 125%. Accordingly, Ms. Vecchio’s target award ispro-rated based on the periods of fiscal 2019 during which she served in each role.

2019 Performance Measures

As described below, each named executive officer’sNEO’s annual incentive award is based on our financial results (the “Financial Component”achievement of the following two performance goals: (i) Adjusted Net Income Per Share (“ANI Per Share”) and his or her personal performance (the “Performance Component”(i) Comparable Store Sales Percentage (“Comp Sales Percentage”). The Committee believes that this methodologythese metrics closely aligns the named executive officer’salign our NEOs’ interests with our stockholders’ interests while also rewarding each of the named executive officers for his or her individual performance. The Financial Component under our 2015 Annual Incentive Plan was based on a combination of our Adjusted Net Income results and comparable store sales results. As our performance is predominately measured on the basis of Adjusted Net Income per Share rather than Adjusted Net Income, the Committee in February 2016 approved replacing the Adjusted Net Income portion of the Financial Component with Adjusted Net Income per Share commencing with our 2016 Annual Incentive Plan.interests. The Committee also approved retaining comparable store salesbelieves that ANI Per Share is an appropriate and primary indicator to our stockholders of overall business health, and its inclusion as parta performance goal achieves our desire to use a measure of the Financial Component underprofitability that drives stockholder value creating behaviors. The second measure, Comp Sales Percentage (a growth metric comparing, and requiring

improvement over, last year’s performance), focuses our 2016 Annual Incentive Plan.executives on both strengthening our core business and driving revenue growth.

We define comparable store sales as sales of those stores, including online sales, commencing on the first day of the fiscal month one year after the end of their grand opening activities, which normally conclude within the first two months of operations. Adjusted Net Income per Share is defined as Adjusted Net Income (defined as net(net income (loss) for the period, plusexclusive of the following items, if applicable: (i) net favorable lease amortization,costs; (ii) costs related to debt amendments and secondary offering,amendments; (iii) stock option modification expense, (iv) loss on the extinguishment of debt,debt; (iv) impairment charges; and (v) impairment charges, (vi) amounts related to certain litigation, (vii) advisory fees and (viii) other unusual,non-recurring or extraordinary expenses, losses, charges or gains, all of which are tax effected to arrive at Adjusted Net Income) divided by the number of fully diluted weighted average shares outstanding. Fully diluted weighted average shares outstanding starts with basic shares outstanding and adds back any potentially dilutive securities

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outstanding during the period. Fully diluted weighted average shares outstanding is equal to basic shares outstanding if the Company is in an Adjusted Net Loss position.

In Note 11 (entitled “Net Income Per Share”) to our January 28, 2017February 1, 2020 Consolidated Financial Statements, we disclose the calculation of net income per diluted share, the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure to Adjusted Net Income per Share, from our audited financial statements. A reconciliation of Adjusted Net Income to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure (i.e., disclosure regarding how

the Company calculates each such measure from its audited financial statements) is contained in the section of our Fiscal 2016201910-K entitled “Key Performance Measures.”

Comp Sales Percentage is the percentage growth in Comparable Store Sales (defined as sales of those stores, including online sales, commencing on the first day of the fiscal month one year after the end of their grand opening activities, which normally conclude within the first two months of operations) over the previous fiscal year.

The Weighting Percentage for each measure is as follows:

MeasureWeighting Percentage

ANI Per Share

50%

Comp Sales Percentage

50%

2019 Performance Goals and Payout Scale

Based on the Company’s achievement of the performance goals, each NEO’s fiscal 2019 award may range from 0% to no more than 300% of their target award. ANI Per Share attainment and Comp Sales Percentage attainment are measured separately, and achievement of the ANI Per Share component is not required in order to qualify for the Comp Sales Percentage component (and vice versa).

In March 2019, the Committee established $6.74 (excluding the impact of the accounting change for stock-based compensation) as the target ANI Per Share for fiscal 2019. After considering the

management transition costs incurred in fiscal 2019 as a result of our CEO succession, the Committee in May 2019 determined to exclude such costs for purposes of determining ANI Per Share for fiscal 2019.

The Committee determined that the Financial Component under our 2016 Annual Incentive Plan will be based 50% on our Adjusted Net Income peralso established Percentage of Target ANI Per Share resultsAttainment levels and 50% on our comparable store sales results, and the following threshold and target amounts were approved by the Board in February 2016:

Metric

  Threshold  Target 

Adjusted Net Income per Share

  $2.39  $2.72 

Comparable Store Sales

   greater than 0%   3.94

In determining each portion of the Financial Component, (i) achievement at the target results in a potential payout at the target level; (ii) if actual results are less than the target but greater than the threshold, each named executive officer would be eligible for an incentive bonus equivalent to a fractional share of his or her target bonus determined by the proportion of the actual results achieved in relation to the target; and (iii) if actual results are greater than the target, each named executive officer would be eligible for his or her target bonus plus an additional bonus payment equivalent to a percentage of every dollar above the target, up to a maximum of 300% of target. Withrelated ANI Per Share Payout Percentages with respect to the Performance Component, our named executive officers must receive a ratingthreshold, target and maximum performance levels applicable for fiscal 2019. Each NEO’s actual ANI Per Share Payout Percentage is determined through interpolation based on the table below and the percentage of the Target ANI Per Share that we attain. The ANI Per Share Payout Percentage is capped at least “Meets Expectations” (meaning300%.

Percentage of Target ANI

Per Share Attainment

  

Target ANI

Per Share Attainment ($)

  

ANI Per Share

Payout Percentage

150%

  10.11  300%

125%

  8.43  200%

106.25%

  7.16  125%

100%

  6.74  100%

94.3%

  6.36  75%

88.5%

  5.96  50%

Less than 88.5%

    0%

In March 2019, the Committee established 3.4% as the Comp Sales Percentage target. The Committee also established Comp Sales Percentages and related Comp Sales Payout Percentages with respect to the threshold, target and maximum performance levels applicable for fiscal 2019. Each NEO’s actual Comp Sales Payout

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Percentage is determined through interpolation based on the table below and the actual Comp Sales Percentage that the named executive officer has generally met his or her individual performance objectives for the year) in orderwe attain. The Comp Sales Payout Percentage is capped at 300%.

Comp Sales Percentage  Comp Sales Payout Percentage

0.00%

  0%

1.7%

  75%

3.4%

  100%

4.4%

  125%

5.4%

  150%

6.4%

  175%

7.4%

  200%

8.4%

  225%

9.4%

  250%

10.4%

  300%

Awards made to receive a bonusNEOs under our Annual Incentive Plan. Accordingly,Plan are equal to the Performance Component serves as a threshold achievement level necessary for considerationsum of a bonus(A) + (B), where:

(A)

is the amount equal to the product of: (i) the ANI Per Share Payout Percentage,times (ii) the ANI Per Share Weighting Percentage,times (iii) the NEO’s Target Award; and

(B)

is the amount equal to the product of: (x) the Comp Sales Payout Percentage,times (y) the Comp Sales Percentage Weighting Percentage,times (z) the NEO’s Target Award.

Notwithstanding this formula, under the Annual Incentive Plan, and does not servethe Committee retains discretion to modify amounts payablereduce, or eliminate entirely, any award. In exercising its discretion to our named executive officers. However, where a named executive officer is rated below “Meets Expectations,” no bonus is paid.reduce the amount of an award, the Committee may take into account the NEO’s individual performance rating or other factors considered relevant by the Committee.

Following the conclusion of fiscal 2016,2019, the Committee assessed whether and to what extent the Performance Component andperformance goals for the Financial Component. With respect to the Performance Component, each named executive officer received a rating of at least “Meets Expectations.” In making these determinations, the Committee reviewed Mr. Kingsbury’s personal performance in fiscal 2016 and Mr. Kingsbury reviewed personal performance in fiscal 2016 with respect to Messrs. Katz, Hand, and Seeger and Ms. Vecchio in light ofpre-established individual objectives. These objectives consisted of matters such as meeting key financial and other business goals (including the achievement of targets relating to sales, gross margin (for Mr. Seeger and Ms. Vecchio) and expense (for Messrs. Katz and Hand)), effectively managing each named executive officer’s business unit or corporate function (including through the development of talent and the leveraging of resources to consistently achieve our business goals), and adherence to our Core Values (as described above).

year were met. Our performance in fiscal 20162019 with respect to Adjusted Net Income per Sharethe performance goals and comparable store sales, the two metrics comprising the Financial Component,formulaic payout was as follows:

 

Metric

  Actual  Percentage of
Target
  Achievement
Percentage
 

Adjusted Net Income per Share

  $3.24   122  169.1

Comparable Store Sales

   4.5  114.5  114.3

Metric

  Actual  Percentage of
Target
(1)
  Payout
  Percentage  

ANI Per Share

   $6.98    103.87%    115.47%

Comp Sales Percentage

    2.7%    79.96%    89.98%
(1)

In determining Percentage of Target ANI Per Share Attainment, the Committee, consistent with the historical design of the annual incentive program, excluded from actual performance and target performance the accrual of amounts for payment under the Annual Incentive Plan for the performance period.

As achievement

Notwithstanding Company performance, the Committee determined to delay the finalization of bonuses for the Company’s continuing NEOs until later in fiscal 2020 in light of the Financial Component is based 50% on our Adjusted Net Income per Share resultsevolvingCOVID-19 situation. Accordingly, as of the date of this proxy statement, the Company has not paid bonuses to the Company’ s Named Executive Officers and, 50% on our comparable store sales results, eachexcept with respect to Mr. Kingsbury, the Committee retains authority to exercise negative discretion with respect to any payment of our named executive officers earnedbonuses to the following awardsCompany’s Named Executive Officers. In light of Mr. Kingsbury’s Chairman

Agreement, Mr. Kingsbury will receive a payout under the Annual Incentive Plan for fiscal 2016, equal to 141.7% of such named executive officer’s applicable target award:based on the formulaic payout.

Named Executive Officer

  Award 

Thomas A. Kingsbury

  $2,763,150 

Marc Katz

  $700,565 

Fred Hand

  $700,565 

Rick Seeger

  $674,600 

Jennifer Vecchio

  $724,009 

The range of potential payouts under the Annual Incentive Plan for each of our named executive officers is presented below in the Grants of Plan-Based Awards Table. The actual Annual Incentive Plan awards earned by each named executive officer in fiscal 2016 are also reported below in the Summary Compensation Table.

Long-Term Incentives

The Committee believes that long-term incentives are aan important component of compensation that helps us to attract, retain and motivate our named executive officers.NEOs. These incentives also align the financial rewards paid to our

named executive officers NEOs with our long-term performance, thereby

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encouraging our named executive officersNEOs to focus on long-term goals. We formerly grantedgrant long-term incentives underto our 2006 Incentive Plan, which terminated in April 2016. From and after that date, we have granted incentivesNEOs under the 2013 Incentive Plan, which was adopted in connection with our IPO. Named executive officers (as well as other key employeesIPO and directors) are eligibleamended and restated effective May 17, 2017. Under the 2013 Incentive Plan, the Committee is authorized to receive equitygrant a variety of awards, including but not limited to awards of restricted common stockPSUs, RSUs or stock options to purchase our common stock. More details about the stock options and restricted stockawards granted to our named executive officersNEOs are set out in the tables that follow this discussion.

Long-Term Incentive Program

In fiscal 2014, the Committee developed our LTIP whereby certain employees, including our named executive officers, may be eligible to receive a grant of Company equity up to a percentage of their annual base salary (which we refer to as the “equity incentive percentage”) each year. The LTIP is designed to promote achievement of corporate goals, encourage the growth of stockholder value, enable participation in our long-term growth and profitability and serve as an incentive for continued employment. In setting the value of our equity incentive compensation for executives, the Committee’s determinations wereare informed by the assessmentassessments conducted by the Hay Group discussed aboveMeridian, peer group market data and otheralignment with our compensation considerations.philosophy.

Under the LTIP, each named executive officer has an equity incentive percentage target expressed as a percentage of his or her base salary. The 2016 equity incentive percentage target for each of our named executive officers under our 2016 LTIP was follows:

Named Executive Officer

Equity Incentive Percentage Target

Thomas A. Kingsbury

450

Marc Katz

175

Fred Hand

��175

Rick Seeger

150

Jennifer Vecchio

175

For LTIP participants withpre-IPO equity grants,fiscal 2019, the value of the portion of any such grant set to vest during the one-year period beginning on May 1 ofCommittee approved each fiscal year historically reduced the amount of the LTIP Award for such fiscal year in accordance with a formula approved by the Committee. Accordingly, the 2016 LTIP Awards granted to each of Messrs. Kingsbury, Katz and Hand were reduced by the value of the portion of each officer’spre-IPONEO’s equity grant setbased on a variety of factors including but not limited to vest duringrole, contributions, market context, and recommendations from the one-year period beginning on May 1, 2016. The practical impact of this approach was that LTIP participants withpre-IPO equity grants received significantly smaller annual equity grants than their counterparts in our peer group, or their colleagues atCEO (for all NEOs except the Company. Accordingly, the Committee further evaluated the methodology used to grant LTIP awards to participants withpre-IPO equity grants and in November 2016 determined that, beginning with LTIP Awards to be granted on or about May 1, 2017, participants withpre-IPO equity grants will be eligible to receive up to 100% of such participant’s LTIP equity incentive percentage target. In the event that LTIP awards continue to be primarily comprised of stock options (or other appreciation or performance based awards), this change in methodology should result in a larger portion of the total annualized target compensation for each named executive officer withpre-IPO equity being “at risk.”CEO).

2016 LTIP Awards were granted to our named executive officers on April 8, 2016 and consisted of stock options and restricted stock awards. The Committee designed these components to align the interests of our named executive officers with the interests of our stockholders by providing an incentive to our executives to achieve performance that should have a favorable impact on the value of our common stock. The Committee allocated 75 percent of the 2016 LTIP Award to stock options because they believed that stock price appreciation should be the principal determinant of the economic return received by our executives from equity compensation. As the value is solely tied to an increase in the Company’s stock price, our executives realize value from stock options only if the price of our stock increases and the executives continue to serve through the vesting period. Compared to full-value

2019 LTI Mix

awards, stock options provide for greater leverage and, therefore, closely align executive incentives with the interests of our stockholders. Stock options also amplify downside risk, as they do not provide any value to the holder if the stock price declines below the exercise price. In addition, stock options generally qualify as performance-based compensation for purposes of the deduction limit of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code.

The remaining 25 percent of each 2016 LTIP Award was allocated to restricted stock awards with time-based vesting, which the Committee granted to provide a retention incentive for our executives and an incentive to increase stockholder value. The Committee routinely evaluates and considers the type of awards granted under our LTIP. 2018 LTIP Awards consisted of stock options and may,restricted stock awards with time-based vesting. Although the Committee considers stock options to be performance-based, we have received feedback from some of our stockholders, as well as proxy advisory services, expressing their belief that stock options are not performance-based and suggesting that we should include equity awards in our LTIP that vest on the basis of metrics withpre-established goals linked to the Company’s performance. In response to this feedback, and in order to create a stronger link between executive pay and Company performance and further align our executives’ interests with those of our stockholders, the Committee, based on input and analysis from Meridian, revised the fiscal 2019 LTIP such that 50% of such LTIP awards made to our NEOs were in the future, decideform of PSUs with vesting based onpre-established performance goals. In addition, based on the input and analysis from Meridian, the fiscal 2019 LTIP Awards include vesting provisions relating to

death, termination due to disability, reduction in force and retirement as compared to the prior awards that other types of awards are appropriate to provide incentives that promote our goals and objectives.only included accelerated vesting for a qualifying termination in connection with a change in control.

The Committee approvedfiscal 2019 LTIP Awards made to Ms. Vecchio and Mr. Seeger (each at target), as well as to Messrs. Kingsbury, Katz and Hand (reduced by the value of the portion of each officer’spre-IPO equity grant, as described above) on April 8, 2016 as follows:

Named Executive Officer

  Shares of Restricted Stock   Options 

Thomas A. Kingsbury

   13,966    96,361 

Marc Katz

   2,767    19,090 

Fred Hand

   2,767    19,090 

Rick Seeger

   4,226    29,156 

Jennifer Vecchio

   5,185    35,776 

In connection with their promotions effective as of the beginning of fiscal 2017, the LTIP equity incentive percentage targets for Ms. Vecchio and Messrs. Katz and Handour NEOs were increased to 225%. To reflect these increases, the Committee granted each executive a prorated LTIP grant on January 30, 2017delivered in the following amounts:mix:

Fiscal 2019 Long-Term Incentive Award Mix for NEOs

 

Named Executive Officer

  Shares of Restricted Stock   Options 

Marc Katz

   1,300    8,970 

Fred Hand

   1,300    8,970 

Jennifer Vecchio

   1,344    9,269 

Each

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PSUs. PSUs require the achievement ofpre-established EBIT margin expansion and sales CAGR goals (each weighted equally) over a three-year performance period. Based on the Company’s achievement of Ms. Vecchiothese goals, each NEO’s award may range from 50% (at threshold performance) to no more than 200% of his or her target award. In the event that actual performance is below threshold, no award will be made. The PSU performance goals were designed to be challenging but achievable with the coordinated, cross-functional focus and Messrs. Katz and Hand remains eligible to receive a full LTIP grant in 2017 at the time LTIP grants are made to other officerseffort of the Company.executives.

Stock Options. The grant of stock options supports the Committee’s philosophy that stock price appreciation should be a significant determinant of the economic return received by our executives from equity compensation. Options granted pursuant to an LTIP Award are made athave an exercise price per share equal to the fair market value.value of a share of stock on the grant date and vest in 25% increments over a four-year vesting period, subject to the NEO’s continued employment through the applicable vesting date. Accordingly, each NEO realizes value from stock options only to the extent our share price is greater than the option exercise price (which is set at our share price on the date of grant) and the NEO is employed through the vesting period. In addition,contrast, if our share price declines below the exercise price of a stock option granted to a NEO, the NEO would realize no value under the stock option.

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options vest 25% on each of the first, second, third and fourth anniversaries of the grant date;

options granted pursuant to an LTIP Award made prior to 2016 become exercisable upon a change in control; options granted pursuant to LTIP Awards made from and after 2016 become exercisable if, within two (2) years following a change in control, the executive’s employment is terminated by us without cause or the executive resigns with good reason; and

options will immediately be forfeited upon a termination of employment by us for cause. In the event of termination of employment for any other reason, stock options that have not vested will be forfeited immediately, and unexercised vested options will be exercisable for a period of 60 days.

Shares of restricted stock granted pursuant to an LTIP Award also vest 25% on each of the first, second, third and fourth anniversaries of the grant date. In addition,

shares of restricted stock vest only in the event that the executive remains continuously employed by us on each vesting date;

all unvested shares of restricted stock will remain unvested following any change in control, provided, however, that 100% of such shares will vest if the executive’s employment is terminated by us without cause or the recipient resigns with good reason (i) following the change in control (in the case of shares of restricted stock granted pursuant to an LTIP Award prior to 2016), or (ii) within two (2) years following the change in control (in the case of shares of restricted stock granted pursuant to an LTIP Award from and after 2016); and

all unvested shares of restricted stock will automatically be forfeited (and will not vest) if the executive’s employment with us terminates for any reason (other than as provided above) prior to the vesting date.

The LTIP Awards granted to Mr. KingsburyRSUs. RSUs are subject to specialtime-based vesting conditions, which are described below underand provide a retention incentive for our NEOs and an incentive to increase stockholder value. RSUs vest in

25% increments over a four-year vesting period, subject to the caption entitled “Narrative Disclosure to Summary Compensation Table and Grants of Plan-Based Awards Table.”NEO’s continued employment through the applicable vesting date.

Restricted Stock Granted Other Than Pursuant to LTIP Awards

KingsburyOne-Time Grant

Pursuant to the January 2017 amendment to Mr. Kingsbury’sterms of his employment agreement, Mr. KingsburyO’Sullivan received aone-timepro-rated grant2019 LTIP award on September 16, 2019 upon the commencement of 100,000 shares of restricted common stock (vesting ratably over four years), subjecthis employment. Fiscal 2019 grants were made to the special vesting conditions described below under the caption entitled “Narrative Disclosure to Summary Compensation Tableeach other NEO on May 1, 2019, and Grants of Plan-Based Awards Table.” The Board determined that the compensation adjustments included in Mr. Kingsbury’s employment agreement amendment, including theone-time grant of restricted common stock, were appropriate in light of the Company’s strong sustained performance, consistent growth and delivery of significant stockholder value under Mr. Kingsbury’s leadership.

Retention Awards

From time to time, the Committee may award a special equity grantapproved LTIP Awards to one or more of our named executive officers and other key leaders in our organization to encourage retention. These awards are provided in the form of restricted common stock that vests after a period of continued service, and are designed to facilitate the development of a strong line of succession candidates for key leadership roles to ensure an orderly transition to the next generation of Company leaders. As described above, the Committee granted 30,000 shares of restricted common stock to (i) Mr. Katz on January 30, 2017 that vest 100% on January 30, 2021, subject to Mr. Katz’s service through such date; and (ii) to Mr. Hand on June 29, 2016 that vest 100% on May 4, 2020, subject to Mr. Hand’s service through such date. The Committee believes that Messrs. Katz and Hand have a key role in the achievement of our short and long-term business objectives, and it determined that these grants were necessary to ensure the continued service of these key executives over the next several years. In addition, these grants were designed to reward superior past performance and provide increased compensation to reflect the assumption of additional responsibilities by Messrs. Katz and Hand. The Committee believes that these grants will further incent Messrs. Katz and Hand to drive long-term stockholder value,each NEO as the actual value of these grants to the executive is directly tied to the long-term appreciation of our stock price.follows:

Named Executive Officer

  LTI Value  PSUs (Target)  RSUs  Options  

Michael O’Sullivan

   $8,500,000(2)     13,808    6,904    18,227  

Thomas A. Kingsbury(1)

   $6,024,847    17,714    8,857    24,534  

John Crimmins

   $   637,610    1,875    938    2,484  

Marc Katz

   $1,729,141    5,085    2,543    6,738  

Jennifer Vecchio

   $2,703,223    7,950    3,975    10,534  

Fred Hand

   $1,729,141    5,085    2,543    6,738  

Joyce Manning Magrini

   $   640,590    1,884    942    2,496  

(1)

The LTIP Awards granted to Mr. Kingsbury are subject to special vesting conditions, which are described below under the caption entitled “Narrative Disclosure to Summary Compensation Table and Grants of Plan-Based Awards Table.”

(2)

Mr. O’Sullivan’s LTI value was established pursuant to his employment agreement, discussed in more detail below under the caption entitled “Narrative Disclosure to Summary Compensation Table and Grants of Plan-Based Awards Table.” Pursuant to the terms of his employment agreement, Mr. O’Sullivan’s actual fiscal 2019 LTIP award amounted to apro-rated portion of the employment agreement amount based on the number of days served between the date he commenced employment and the next regularly scheduled annual equity grant date for senior executive officers.

Benefits and Perquisites

Our executive compensation program includes limited perquisites, which are subject to Committee review and other benefits, which the Committee reviews for market prevalence.approval, and broad-based benefits.

The perquisites and benefits included in our executive compensation program represent a modest portion of each named executive officer’sNEO’s total compensation. The cost of these perquisites or other personal benefits is set forth below in the Fiscal 2019 Summary Compensation Table below under the column “All Other Compensation,” and additional detail is set forth in the footnotes following the Fiscal 2019 Summary Compensation Table.

We provide our CEO and each other NEO with an annual car allowance in the amount of our named executive officers with a car allowance.$35,000 and $25,000, respectively. In addition, we maintain broad-based benefits that are provided to all full-time employees, including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance. Certain of these benefits require employees to pay a portion of the premium. Except with respect to life insurance (our named executive officersNEOs all receive lifesuch insurance in an amount equal to the lesser of

three times their annual base salary)salary or apre-determined maximum), these benefits are offered to our named executive officersNEOs on the same basis as all other employees. We also maintainoffer a retirement savings plan in which eligible employees (including our named executive officers) who have at least one year of employment with usNEOs) may participate. The savings plan isincludes a traditional 401(k) plan (withpre-tax savings option and apost-tax Roth component), under which we match401(k) option. We provide a matching contribution of 100% ofon the first 3% of theeligible compensation that is deferred and 50% ofon the next 2% of theeligible compensation that is deferred, up to the Internal Revenue Code limit for each respective year in which the eligible employee participates in the plan. Pursuant to the terms of his employment agreement, Mr. O’Sullivan received reimbursement of reasonable moving expenses incurred in connection with his relocation.

The Committee believes that the limited perquisites and other benefits provided to named executive officersour NEOs are reasonable and consistent with the perquisites that would be available to them at companies with whom we compete for experienced senior management.

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Termination-Based Compensation

Severance arrangements applicable to our named executive officersNEOs are set forth in each of their respective employment agreements. The Committee believes these arrangements play an important role in protecting our highly competitive business by restricting our executive officers from working for a competitor or soliciting our employees during the specified severance period. Additionally, each named executive officer’s optionNEO’s equity grant agreement(s) and restricted stock agreement(s) containsagreements contain terms regarding vesting in connection with the termination of employment and changes in control. The Committee believes that these termination and change in control terms provide our named executive officersNEOs with an incentive to act in stockholders’ best interests during a potential change in control despite the risk of losing their jobs or a significant change in the nature of their benefits and responsibilities.

As noted above, Mr. Kingsbury stepped down as Chief Executive Officer on September 16, 2019 and Executive Chairman on February 1, 2020. In connection with his departure, Mr. Kingsbury did not receive any cash severance benefits from the Company, although he remains eligible to vest in his outstanding equity awards based on the special vesting conditions included in his December 2008 employment agreement, as amended, and which are described below under the caption entitled “Narrative Disclosure to Summary Compensation Table and Grants of Plan-Based Awards Table.” Mr. Katz did not receive any separation benefits in connection with his resignation from the Company.

A detailed discussion of compensation payable upon termination or a change in control is provided below under the caption entitled “Potential Payments Upon Termination orChange-in-Control. Change in Control.

Compensation Recoupment Policy and Additional ClawbackForfeiture Features

We strive to maintain a culture that emphasizes integrity and accountability and reinforces ourpay-for-performance compensation philosophy. Accordingly, in February 2016, the Committee has adopted a compensation recoupment policy, providing that, in the event of a financial restatement or significant financial harm to the Company arising out of willful actions, including without limitation fraud or intentional misconduct, or gross negligence by any officer of the Company, the Committee shall have the discretion and

authority to determine the appropriate action to take, which may include requiring relinquishment of previously awarded equity-based compensation and/or repayment of previously paid incentive cash compensation.

In addition to the foregoing policy, select elements of the Company’s executive compensation program provide for the forfeiture or recoupment of compensation in certain events:

We provided aone-timesign-on bonus and reimbursement of certain relocation expenses and temporary housing expenses (as well as reimbursement for certain related taxes) to Mr. Seeger. The netafter-tax portion of these amounts is subject to clawback in the event employment is terminated voluntarily by the executive (other than for good reason) or for cause by us within eighteen (18) months after the dates on which such amounts are received. In addition, if Mr. Seeger’s employment is terminated voluntarily by him (other than for good reason) or for cause by us prior to October 1, 2017, Mr. Seeger is required to immediately pay to us $2,625,000, such amount representing the grant date value of restricted stock granted to Mr. Seeger in connection with the commencement of his employment that has vested prior to the termination date.

All stock options and unvested shares of restricted stock will be immediately forfeited upon any termination of employment by us for cause. In the event of termination of employment for any other reason (except in connection with a change in control), (i) stock options that have not vested will be forfeited immediately and unexercised vested options will be exercisable for a period of 60 days; and (ii) all unvested shares of restricted stock will automatically be forfeited and shall not vest, in each case except in the case of the special vesting conditions applicable to certain awards made to Mr. Kingsbury, as described below.

Stock Ownership Guidelines

As described above, the Committee has adopted stock ownership guidelines for our executives. These stock ownership guidelines provide that (i) the Chief Executive Officer is subject to stock ownership guidelines, which require ownership ofshould own shares of our common stock with a value equal to or exceeding four (4)six times his or her then-current base salary, and (ii) other NEOs should own shares of our common stock with a value equal to or exceeding three times his or her then-current base salary. Mr. Kingsbury ownsAs of the end of fiscal 2019, each NEO then subject to the stock ownership guidelines owned shares with a value significantly in excess of these ownership guidelines.the applicable guideline.

Prohibition on Hedging and Pledging of Company Stock

The Board considers it inappropriate for directors or executive officers to enter into speculative transactions in Company securities. Hedging or monetization transactions can be accomplished through a number of possible mechanisms, including, but not limited to, through the use of financial instruments such as exchange funds, prepaid variable forwards, equity swaps, puts, calls, collars, forwards and other derivative instruments, or through the establishment of a short position in our securities. Such hedging and monetization transactions may permit persons to continue to own Company securities obtained through our benefit plans or otherwise, but without the full risks and rewards of ownership. When that occurs, such persons may no longer have the same objectives as our other stockholders. Moreover, certain short-term or speculative transactions in our securities by directors and corporate personnel create the potential for heightened legal risk and/or the appearance of improper or inappropriate conduct involving our securities.

Under our hedging and pledging policy, our directors and all corporate personnel (including our executive officers), are prohibited from engaging in any hedging or monetization transactions with respect to our securities. Further, directors and corporate personnel may not engage in the following short-term or speculative transactions in our securities that could

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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

create heightened legal risk and/or the appearance of improper or inappropriate conduct by such persons:

 

 Short Sales. Short sales of our securities (i.e., the sale of a security that the seller does not own) may evidence an expectation on the part of the seller that the securities will decline in value, and therefore have the potential to signal to the market that the seller lacks confidence in our prospects. In addition, short sales may reduce a seller’s incentive to seek to improve our performance. For these reasons, short sales of our securities by our directors and corporate personnel are prohibited under our policy.

 

 Publicly-Traded Options. Given the relatively short termterms of publicly-traded options, transactions in options may cause focus on short-term performance at the expense of our long term objectives. Accordingly, our policy prohibits transactions in put options, call options or other derivative securities related to our securities, on an exchange or in any other organized market.

Margin Accounts and Pledged Securities. Securities held in a margin account as collateral for a margin loan may be sold by the broker without the customer’s consent if the customer fails to meet a margin call. Similarly, securities pledged (or hypothecated) as collateral for a loan may be sold in foreclosure if the borrower defaults on the loan. Because a margin sale or foreclosure sale may occur at a time when the pledgor is aware of material nonpublic information or otherwise is not permitted to trade in our securities, directors and corporate personnel are prohibited from holding our securities in a margin account or otherwise pledging our securities as collateral for a loan.

Margin Accounts and Pledged Securities. Securities held in a margin account as collateral for a margin loan may be sold by the broker without the customer’s consent if the customer fails to meet a margin call. Similarly, securities pledged (or

hypothecated) as collateral for a loan may be sold in foreclosure if the borrower defaults on the loan. Because a margin sale or foreclosure sale may occur at a time when the pledgor is aware of material nonpublic information or otherwise is not permitted to trade in our securities, directors and corporate personnel are prohibited from holding our securities in a margin account or otherwise pledging our securities as collateral for a loan.

Tax and Accounting Considerations

The Committee structures our compensation program in a manner that is consistent with our compensation philosophy and objectives. In the course of making decisions about executive compensation, the Committee takes into account tax and accounting considerations. For example, they takethe Committee takes into account Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code regardingnon-qualified deferred compensation. TheyThe Committee also considerconsiders how various elements of compensation will affect our financial reporting. For example, they considerthe Committee considers the impact of FASB ASC Topic 718—Stock Compensation, which requires us to recognize the cost of employee services received in exchange for awards of equity instruments based upon the grant date fair value of those awards.

Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code places a limit of $1 million on the amount of compensation that we may deduct in any given year with respect to our Chief Executive Officer or any of our next three most highly compensated executive officers (other than our Chief Financial Officer). There is an exception to the $1 million limitation for performance-based compensation meeting certain requirements. The 2013 Incentive Plan and certain awards made pursuant to that plan, including stock options and cash awards made under our Annual Incentive Plan, are intended to permit such awards to qualify as performance-based compensation to maximize the tax deductibility of these awards.

Under another Section 162(m) exception, certain compensation paid pursuant to a compensation plan in existence before the effective date of our IPO will not be subject to the $1 million limitation until the earliest of: (i) the expiration of the compensation plan, (ii) a material modification of the compensation plan (as determined under Section 162(m)), (iii) the issuance of all the employer stock and other compensation allocated under the compensation plan, or (iv) the Annual Meeting. As described in detail above in Proposal 4, we are seeking stockholder approval of the Amended Plan at the Annual Meeting to have the flexibility to grant qualified performance-based awards. At such time as we are subject to the deduction limitations of Section 162(m), we expect that the Committee will take the deductibility limitations of Section 162(m) into account in its compensation decisions. However, the Committee may authorize compensation payments that are not exempt under Section 162(m) when it believes such payments are appropriate to attract or retain talent.

While it is the general intention of the Committee to design the components of our executive compensation program in a manner that is tax efficient for both us and our named executive officers, there can be no assurance that they will always approve compensation that is advantageous for us from a tax perspective.

Report of the Compensation Committee

We, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of Burlington Stores, Inc., have reviewed and discussed the “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” set forth above with management and, based on such review and discussions, recommended to the Board of Directors that the “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” set forth above be included in this proxy statement.Proxy Statement and the Company’s Annual Report on Form10-K for the fiscal year ended February 1, 2020.

Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors:

Jordan Hitch,ChairmanChair*

John J. MahoneyTed English

William McNamaraMary Ann Tocio

Paul J. Sullivan*Mr. Hitch was appointed to the Compensation Committee on February 19, 2020.

The preceding Compensation Committee Report does not constitute soliciting material and shall not be deemed to be filed, incorporated by reference into or part of any filing made by us (including any future filings) under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act, notwithstanding any general statement contained in any such filing incorporating this report by reference, except to the extent we incorporate such report by specific reference.

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CompensationCommitteeCompensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation

Messrs. Hitch,

Ted English, John J. Mahoney McNamara and Sullivan, as well as Josh Bekenstein,Mary Ann Tocio served on the Committee during fiscal 2016,2019. Mr. English, Ms. Tocio and each director other than Mr. Bekenstein continues toJordan Hitch currently serve on the Committee. None of these individuals (i) have ever been an officer or an employee of ours, nor (ii) except as otherwisewith respect to the indemnification agreements set forth below under the caption entitled “Certain Relationships and Related Party

Transactions,” have any relationship that is required to be disclosed pursuant to the rules of the SEC. In addition, none of our executive officers serve (or served at any time during fiscal 2016)2019) as a member of the board of directors or compensation committee of any entity that has one or more executive officers serving as a member of our Board of Directors or the Committee.

Compensation-Related Risk

In accordance with applicable disclosure requirements, to the extent that risks may arise from our compensation policies and practices that are reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on us, we are required to discuss those policies and practices for compensating our employees as they relate to our risk management practices and the possibility of incentivizing risk-taking. The Committee has evaluated theconsiders risks associated with our compensation policies and practices and, as part of compensating our employees and, based on such evaluation, has determined that the risks arising from our policies and practices are not reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on us. In reaching that conclusion, management andits consulting services for the Committee, evaluated key elementsMeridian evaluates the potential for unintended risk associated with the design of our compensation programs. At the direction of the Committee, Meridian completed a comprehensive review of our compensation policies and practices to determine whether potential risk existed and whether there were design factors that mitigated potential risk areas. Upon receiving Meridian’s assessment, the Committee concluded that our compensation policies and practices do not encourage behaviors that could create material risk for the Company.

A number of features in our compensation programs mitigate risk and protect against excessive risk-taking behavior and the following factors:potential for unintended consequences, including:

 

Our compensation mix for participants in our LTIP and Annual Incentive Plans creates a balance between short-term results and long-term sustainable performance. AlthoughThroughout the organization, variable/fixed pay and short-term/long-term pay is carefully calibrated to ensure appropriate pay mix and structure by level and, for senior executives, a large portion of pay is variable incentive compensation is weightedand oriented towards long-term components.performance.

A significant portion of the 2019 LTIP awards made to senior vice presidents and officers above that level (including our NEOs) are in the form of PSUs based

onpre-established goals linked to our performance over a three-year period. Accordingly, the performance period and vesting schedules for long-term incentives awards will thereafter overlap and, therefore, reduce the motivation to maximize performance in any one period.

 

Our Annual Incentive Plan includesPlans incorporate multiple financial performance metrics thatgoals, which are closely aligned with strategic business goals. Adjusted Net Income per Share and comparable store sales targets are reviewed and approved byIn addition, the Board in connection with the annual budget process and are sufficiently challenging but attainable without the need to take inappropriate risks or make material changes to our business. Further, payment under our Annual Incentive Plan occurs only to the extent personal performance is satisfactory.

The maximum amount payable with respect to the financial metric components of the Annual Incentive Plan applicable to our executives and other eligible corporate associates is limited to 300% of target.target (200% beginning in fiscal 2020).

 

Stock option and restricted stock grants made toTime-based equity awards granted our employeesassociates generally do not vest fully for four years. ThisWe believe this longer vesting period discourages unnecessary or excessive risk taking. Additionally, our insider trading policy prohibits corporate personnel (including our executive officers) and directors from hedging and other activities that could offset the benefits of having these as long-term awards.

 

Because executive incentive compensation has a large stock component, the value is best realized through long-term appreciation of stockholder value, especially when coupled with our stock ownership guidelines for our Chief Executive Officerexecutive officers andnon-employee directors, which expose the Chief Executive Officerour executive officers andnon-employee directors to the loss of the value of the retained equity if stock appreciation is jeopardized.equity.

 

We maintain a compensation recoupment policy, which provides that the Committee may require relinquishment of previously awarded equity-based compensation and/or repayment of previously paid incentive cash compensation in the event of a financial restatement or significant financial harm to us arising out of willful actions or gross negligence by any officer.

 

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The Committee has established a compensation peer group designed to ensure thatprovide meaningful comparisons to ‘market’ compensation levels are meaningful and thatalign compensation programs are consistent with industry practice.

We have a rigorous system of internal controls designed to prevent fraud, deterring individual employees from creating adverse material risk in pursuit of short- or long-term compensation.

Fiscal 2019 Summary Compensation Table

The following table sets forth summary information concerning the compensation of our named executive officers:NEOs for fiscal 2019 and, to the extent required by applicable SEC disclosure rules, fiscal 2018 and fiscal 2017:

 

Name and Principal Position(1)

 Fiscal
Year
 Salary ($) Bonus
($)
 Stock
Awards
($)(1)
 Option
Awards
($)(2)
 Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation
($)(3)
 All Other
Compensation
($)(7)
 Total
($)
  Fiscal
Year
 

Salary

($)

 Bonus
($)
 Stock
Awards
($)(2)
 Option
Awards
($)(3)
 Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation
($)(4)
 All Other
Compensation
($)(5)
 Total
($)

Michael O’Sullivan,

 2019  475,000   —    16,482,346  13,805,090   —    294,161  31,056,597 

Chief Executive Officer

        
Thomas A. Kingsbury, 2016  1,164,257   —    9,079,264  2,024,545  2,763,150  47,819  15,079,035  2019  1,384,750   —    4,519,196  1,505,652  2,157,225  45,384  9,612,207 

Chairman, President and Chief
Executive Officer

 2015  1,109,102   —    697,276  1,848,795  1,558,068  69,417  5,282,658 
 2014  1,071,203  225,000(4)  6,988,500   —    2,194,043  76,201  10,554,947 

Former Executive Chairman

 2018  1,329,250   —    1,462,537  4,390,593  2,197,701  48,131  9,428,212 
 2017  1,300,000   —    1,462,532  3,738,850  2,352,578  47,931  8,901,891 

John Crimmins,

 2019  556,923   —    478,435  159,175   —    36,174  1,230,707 

Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer

        
Marc Katz, 2016  654,400   —    151,023  401,081  700,565  37,819  1,944,888  2019  494,513   —    1,297,370  431,771   —    27,204  2,250,858 

Chief Financial
Officer/Principal

 2015  626,212   —    144,460  382,988  438,816  67,690  1,660,166 
 2014  529,930   —    492,900   —    762,914  57,872  1,843,616 

Former Chief Financial
Officer/Principal

 2018  764,063   —    421,948  1,267,873  841,166  38,131  3,333,181 
 2017 750,000  —   2,954,377 1,368,379 904,838 37,931 6,015,525

Jennifer Vecchio,

 2019  856,394   —    2,028,204  675,019   —    36,218  3,595,835 

President and Chief
Merchandising Officer

 2018  789,531   —    436,027  1,310,135  869,205  38,131  3,443,029 
 2017  775,000   —    544,683  1,413,994  934,999  37,931  3,706,607 
Fred Hand, 2016  654,400   —    2,049,723  401,081  700,565  37,819  3,843,588  2019  781,723   —    1,297,370  431,771   —    36,218  2,547,082 

Chief Customer
Officer/Principal

 2015  626,212   —    664,660  382,988  438,816  59,855  2,172,531  2018  764,063   —    421,948  1,267,873  841,166  38,131  3,333,181 
 2014  565,941   —     —     —    762,914  44,564  1,373,419   2017 750,000  —   527,077 1,368,379 904,838 37,931 3,588,225
Rick Seeger, 2016  629,826   —    230,655  612,568  674,600  37,819  2,185,468 

Executive Vice President

of Merchandising

 2015  601,211   —    62,268  165,097  421,675  289,868  1,540,119 
 2014  23,077  292,000(5)  3,500,033   —     —    10,120  3,825,230 
Jennifer Vecchio, 2016  677,195   —    282,997  751,654  724,009  27,219  2,463,074 

Chief Merchandising
Officer/Principal

  2015   476,212   100,000(6)   2,449,399   739,950   331,947   252,132   4,349,640 

Joyce Manning Magrini,

 2019 523,070   —    480,646  159,944   —    36,178  1,199,838 

Executive Vice President -

Human Resources

  2018  509,375  —    156,352  469,577  420,583  38,036  1,593,923
  2017   493,667   —     148,380   382,839   452,419   37,773   1,515,078

 

(1)

Effective as of September 16, 2019, Mr. O’Sullivan was appointed Chief Executive Officer and Mr. Kingsbury stepped down from that position, becoming our Executive Chairman. Mr. Kingsbury resigned as our Executive Chairman, and from all other positions with the Company, including as a member of the Board, effective as of February 1, 2020. Ms. Vecchio was promoted to President and Chief Merchandising Officer effective as of April 21, 2019. Mr. Crimmins was appointed as our Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer effective as of October 9, 2019 after having served as our interim Chief Financial Officer since September 13, 2019, the date Mr. Katz resigned as our Chief Financial Officer/Principal. Mr. Katz forfeited the equity awards received in fiscal 2019 in connection with his resignation as our Principal/Chief Financial Officer.

(2)

Represents the aggregate grant date fair value of restricted stock awards (with respect to 2017 and 2018) and RSU and PSU awards (with respect to 2019) calculated in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718, based on the closing share price on the date of restricted sharesgrant and, in the case of the PSUs, the probable satisfaction of the performance conditions for such PSUs as of the date of grant. Assuming the highest level of performance is achieved for the 2019 PSU awards, the maximum value of these awards at the grant date would be as follows: Mr. O’Sullivan-$5,309,728; Mr. Kingsbury-$6,025,594; Mr. Crimmins-$637,800; Mr. Katz-$1,729,714; Ms. Vecchio-$2,704,272; Mr. Hand-$1,729,714; and Ms. Magrini-$640,861. The amount reported in this column for Mr. O’Sullivan also includes RSUs granted to Mr. O’Sullivan to compensate him for a portion of the equity awards forfeited at his prior employer. See Note 12 (entitled “Stock-Based Compensation”) to our common stock.February 1, 2020 Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of the relevant assumptions used in calculating these amounts. The vesting terms and conditions of the awards granted to our NEOs are described below under the table entitled “Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal 2019Year-End.”

(3)

Represents the aggregate grant date fair value of stock option awards. The amount reported in this column for Mr. O’Sullivan includes stock options granted to Mr. O’Sullivan to compensate him for a portion of the equity awards forfeited at his prior employer. The amounts shown were calculated in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718, and are based on a number of key assumptions described in Note 12 (entitled “Stock-Based Compensation”) to our January 28, 2017 Consolidated Financial Statements. The vesting terms and conditions of restricted stock awards to our named executive officers are described below under the table entitled “Outstanding Equity Awards at FiscalYear-End.”

(2)Represents the aggregate grant date fair value of awards of options to purchase shares of our common stock. The amounts shown were calculated in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718, and are based on a number of key assumptions described in Note 12 (entitled “Stock-Based Compensation”) to our January 28, 2017February 1, 2020 Consolidated Financial Statements. The amount of compensation, if any, actually realized by a named executive officerNEO from the exercise and sale of vested options will depend on numerous factors, including the continued employment of the named executive officerNEO during the vesting period of the award and the amount by which the share price on the day of exercise and sale exceeds the

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option exercise price. The vesting terms and conditions of optionthe awards granted to our named executive officersNEOs are described below under the table entitled “Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal 2019Year-End.”

(3)(4)Represents awards earned

Amounts may be awarded under the Annual Incentive Plan.

(4)Represents an annual cash award paid toPlan described above in the section of the Compensation Discussion and Analysis entitled ”Annual Incentive Awards.” Other than Mr. Kingsbury, pursuant to the termsfiscal 2019 Annual Incentive Plan awards for our continuing NEOs are not calculable as of the amendment to his employment agreement entered into in December 2014, which was removed prospectively indate of this filing. Such amounts will be determined at a further amendment to his employment agreement in May 2015.later date and disclosed on a Form8-K. Mr. Katz did not receive an award under our fiscal 2019 Annual Incentive Plan.

(5)Represents aone-timesign-on bonus of $200,000 and a make-whole bonus equal to $92,000, each paid pursuant to the terms of Mr. Seeger’s employment agreement.
(6)Represents aone-timesign-on bonus pursuant to the terms of Ms. Vecchio’s employment agreement.
(7)

The amounts reported in this column for fiscal 20162019 represent the following:

 

Name

  Company
Matching
401(k)
Contributions
($)
   Automobile
Allowance
($)(a)
   Life
Insurance
Premiums
($)(b)
   Total
($)
   

Relocation
Expenses

($)(a)

  Company
Matching
401(k)
Contributions
($)
  Automobile
Allowance
($)(b)
  Insurance
Premiums
($)(c)
  Total
($)

Michael O’Sullivan

   280,356    —     13,125   680   294,161

Thomas A. Kingsbury

   10,600    35,000    2,219    47,819     —     11,200   32,083   2,101   45,384

John Crimmins

    —     11,200   22,917   2,057   36,174

Marc Katz

   10,600    25,000    2,219    37,819     —     11,200   14,583   1,421   27,204

Jennifer Vecchio

    —     11,200   22,917   2,101   36,218

Fred Hand

   10,600    25,000    2,219    37,819     —     11,200   22,917   2,101   36,218

Rick Seeger

   10,600    25,000    2,219    37,819 

Jennifer Vecchio

   —      25,000    2,219    27,219 

Joyce Manning Magrini

    —     11,200   22,917   2,061   36,178

 

(a)

Includes (i) a $250,000 payment to Mr. O’Sullivan, pursuant the terms of his employment agreement, intended to defray certain expenses Mr. O’Sullivan may incur in connection with his relocation to anon-temporary residence within reasonable commuting distance from our principal offices; and (ii) $30,356 of reasonable moving expenses incurred in connection with Mr. O’Sullivan’s relocation and reimbursed to him pursuant to the terms of his employment agreement.

(b)

Represents the dollar value of each named executive officer’sNEO’s annual automobile allowance.

(b)(c)

Represents the dollar value of life insurance premiums that we paid for the benefit of each named executive officer.NEO.

Fiscal 2019 Grants of Plan-Based Awards

The following table sets forth information regarding our grants of plan-based awards to our named executive officersNEOs during fiscal 2016:2019:

 

        

 

Estimated Future Payouts Under

Non-Equity Incentive Plan  Awards(1)

  All Other
Stock
Awards:
Number of
Shares(#)
  All Other
Option
Awards:
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Options
(#)
  Exercise
or Base
Price of
Option
Awards
($/Share)
  Grant Date
Fair Value
of Stock
and
Option
Awards
($)(2)
 

Name

 Grant
Date
  Approval
Date
  Threshold
($)
  Target
($)
  Maximum
($)
     

Thomas A. Kingsbury

  —     —     3,705   1,950,000   5,850,000   —     —     —     —   
  4/8/2016   12/8/14(3)   —     —     —     13,966   —     —     762,264 
  4/8/2016   12/8/14(3)   —     —     —     —     96,361  $54.58   2,024,545 
  1/23/17   1/13/17   —     —     —     100,000   —     —     8,317,000 

Marc Katz

  —     —     939   494,400   1,483,200   —     —     —     —   
  4/8/2016   3/10/16   —     —  ��  —     2,767   —     —     151,023 
  4/8/2016   3/10/16   —     —     —     —     19,090  $54.58   401,081 

Fred Hand

  —     —     939   494,400   1,483,200   —     —     —     —   
  4/8/2016   3/10/16   —     —     —     2,767   —     —     151,023 
  4/8/2016   3/10/16   —     —     —     —     19,090  $54.58   401,081 
  6/29/2016   5/20/16   —     —     —     30,000   —     —     1,898,700 

Rick Seeger

  —     —     904   476,076   1,428,228   —     —     —     —   
  4/8/2016   3/10/16   —     —     —     4,226   —     —     230,655 
  4/8/2016   3/10/16   —     —     —     —     29,156  $54.58   612,568 

Jennifer Vecchio

  —     —     971   510,945   1,532,835   —     —     —     —   
  4/8/2016   3/10/16   —     —     —     5,185   —     —     282,997 
  4/8/2016   3/10/16   —     —     —     —     35,776  $54.58   751,654 
      

Estimated Future Payouts Under

Non-Equity Incentive Plan Awards

(2)

   

Estimated Future Payouts Under

Equity Incentive Plan Awards

(3)

 

All Other
Stock
Awards:
Number of
Shares of
Stock or
Units (4)

(#)

 All Other
Option
Awards:
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Options
(5) (#)
 Exercise
or Base
Price of
Option
Awards
($/
Share)
 

Grant Date
Fair Value
of Stock
and

Option
Awards
($)(6)

Name

 Grant
Date
 Approval
Date (1)
 Threshold
($)
 Target
($)
 

Maximum

($)

   Threshold
(#)
 Target
(#)
 Maximum
(#)

Michael O’Sullivan (7)

   —     —     1,489   744,643   2,233,929     —     —     —     —     —     —     —  
   9/16/2019   4/11/19   —     —     —       6,904   13,808   27,616   —     —     —     2,654,864
   9/16/2019   4/11/19   —     —     —       —     —     —     6,904   —     —     1,327,432
   9/16/2019   4/11/19   —     —     —       —     —     —     —     18,227   192.27   1,326,379
   9/16/2019   4/11/19   —     —     —       —     —     —     65,013(8)   —     —     12,500,050
   9/16/2019   4/11/19   —     —     —       —     —     —     —     174,235(9)   192.27   12,478,711

Thomas A. Kingsbury

   —     —     4,200   2,100,000   6,300,000     —     —     —     —     —     —     —  
   5/1/2019   12/18/14   —     —     —       8,857   17,714   35,428   —     —     —     3,012,797
   5/1/2019   12/18/14   —     —     —       —     —     —     8,857   —     —     1,506,399
   5/1/2019   12/18/14   —     —     —       —     —     —     —     24,534   170.08   1,505,652

John Crimmins

   —     —     938   468,750   1,406,250     —     —     —     —     —     —     —  
   5/1/2019   3/14/19   —     —     —       938   1,875   3,750   —     —     —     318,900
   5/1/2019   3/14/19   —     —     —       —     —     —     938   —     —     159,535
    5/1/2019   3/14/19   —     —     —          —     —     —     —     2,484   170.08   159,175

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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

      

Estimated Future Payouts Under

Non-Equity Incentive Plan Awards

(2)

   

Estimated Future Payouts Under

Equity Incentive Plan Awards

(3)

 

All Other
Stock
Awards:
Number of
Shares of
Stock or
Units (4)

(#)

 All Other
Option
Awards:
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Options
(5) (#)
 Exercise
or Base
Price of
Option
Awards
($/
Share)
 

Grant Date
Fair Value
of Stock
and

Option
Awards
($)(6)

Name

 Grant
Date
 Approval
Date (1)
 Threshold
($)
 Target
($)
 

Maximum

($)

   Threshold
(#)
 Target
(#)
 Maximum
(#)

Marc Katz (10)

   —     —     1,572   786,047   2,358,141     —     —     —     —     —     —     —  
   5/1/2019   3/14/19   —     —     —       2,543   5,085   10,170   —     —     —     864,857
   5/1/2019   3/14/19   —     —     —       —     —     —     2,543   —     —     432,513
   5/1/2019   3/14/19   —     —     —       —     —     —     —     6,738   170.08   431,771

Jennifer Vecchio

   —     —     2,095   1,047,476   3,142,428     —     —     —     —     —     —     —  
   5/1/2019   3/14/19   —     —     —       3,975   7,950   15,900   —     —     —     1,352,136
   5/1/2019   3/14/19   —     —     —       —     —     —     3,975   —     —     676,068
   5/1/2019   3/14/19   —     —     —       —     —     —     —     10,534   170.08   675,019

Fred Hand

   —     —     1,572   786,047   2,358,141     —     —     —     —     —     —     —  
   5/1/2019   3/14/19   —     —     —       2,543   5,085   10,170   —     —     —     864,857
   5/1/2019   3/14/19   —     —     —       —     —     —     2,543   —     —     432,513
   5/1/2019   3/14/19   —     —     —       —     —     —     —     6,738   170.08   431,771

Joyce Manning Magrini

   —     —     790   394,946   1,184,835     —     —     —     —     —     —     —  
   5/1/2019   3/14/19   —     —     —       942   1,884   3,768   —     —     —     320,431
   5/1/2019   3/14/19   —     —     —       —     —     —     942   —     —     160,215
    5/1/2019   3/14/19   —     —     —          —     —     —     —     2,496   170.08   159,944

 

(1)

The terms of Mr. O’Sullivan’s employment were approved by our Board on April 11, 2019, and his employment agreement provides for the grants made to Mr. O’Sullivan on September 16, 2019, the date on which Mr. O’Sullivan commenced employment. An amendment to Mr. Kingsbury’s employment agreement, approved by our Board on December 8, 2014, provides for the grants made to Mr. Kingsbury on May 1, 2019.

(2)

Represents the threshold, target and maximum payments the NEO was eligible to receive based upon achievement of the performance goals under our Annual Incentive Plan for fiscal 2019. The threshold payments represent the amounts that each named executive officerthe NEO would have been eligible to receive under our Annual Incentive Plan for fiscal 20162019 in the event that the named executive officer “Meets Expectations” pursuant to the Performance Component and we attained both the predeterminedpercentage of target Adjusted Net IncomeANI per share and the predetermined comparable store sales results target under the Financial Component. The threshold payments represent the amounts that each named executive officer would have been eligible to receive under our Annual Incentive Plan for fiscal 2016 in the event that the named executive officer “Meets Expectations” pursuant to the Performance Component, we did not attain the predetermined Adjusted Net Income per Share threshold,attainment was less than 88.5% and our comparable store sales increased 0.01% for fiscal 2016.. Payment under our Annual Incentive Plan begins in the event that our comparable store sales are greater than 0%. The maximum amount payable with respectincrease as compared to the financial metric components of ourfiscal 2018. Amounts shown for Mr. O’Sullivan arepro-rated, as his employment agreement provides for apro-rated fiscal 2019 Annual Incentive Plan is limitedpayment based on the number of days he was employed during fiscal 2019. In connection with her promotion from Principal/Chief Merchandising Officer to 300%President and Chief Merchandising Officer in April 2019, Ms. Vecchio’s target opportunity was increased from 100% to 125%. Accordingly, amounts for Ms. Vecchio arepro-rated based on the periods of target. Amounts actually paid tofiscal 2019 during which she served in each named executive officer are reported in the“Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation” column of the Summary Compensation Table.role. For additional information regarding the Annual Incentive Plan, please refer to the section abovein the Compensation Discussion and Analysis entitled “Annual Incentive Awards.”

(2)(3)

Represents the threshold, target and maximum PSU awards (included in 2019 LTIP grants) that the NEO is eligible to receive based upon achievement ofpre-established EBIT margin expansion and sales CAGR goals (each weighted equally) over a three-year performance period. Based on our achievement of these goals, each NEO’s award may range from 50% (at threshold performance) to no more than 200% of his or her target award. In the event that actual performance is below threshold, no award will be made. For additional information regarding the PSUs, please refer to the section in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis entitled “Long Term Incentives.”

(4)

Except as otherwise noted, represents RSU awards included in 2019 LTIP grants and which vest in 25% annual increments, subject to the NEO’s continued employment through the applicable vesting date.

(5)

Except as otherwise noted, represents awards of options to purchase shares of our common stock included in 2019 LTIP grants and which vest in 25% annual increments, subject to the NEO’s continued employment through the applicable vesting date.

(6)

Represents the aggregate grant date fair value of awards of options to purchase shares of our common stock, PSUs and restricted shares of our common stock,RSUs, all made pursuant to the 2006 Incentive Plan with the exception of the grants of restricted shares to Messrs. Hand and Kingsbury on June 29, 2016 and January 23, 2017, respectively, which were made pursuant to the 2013 Incentive Plan. The amounts shown were calculated in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718, based on the closing share price on the date of grant for PSUs and RSUs, and (i) in the case of the PSUs, the probable satisfaction of the performance conditions for such PSUs as of the date of grant; and (ii) with respect to the grant date fair value of option awards, are based on a number of key assumptions described in Note 12 (entitled “Stock-Based Compensation”) to our January 28, 2017February 1, 2020 Consolidated Financial Statements. The vesting terms and conditions of restricted stockthe awards to our named executive officers are described below under the table entitled “Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal 2019Year-End.”

(3)(7)The December 2014 amendment (as that term is defined below) provides

Pursuant to the terms of his employment agreement, Mr. O’Sullivan’s 2019 LTIP grants werepro-rated based on the number of days served between the date he commenced employment and the next regularly scheduled annual equity grant date for senior executive officers.

64 | Burlington Stores, Inc. 2020 Proxy Statement

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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

(8)

Represents a grant of RSUs to compensate Mr. O’Sullivan for a portion of the LTIPequity awards madeforfeited at his prior employer pursuant to the terms of his employment agreement and which vest inone-third annual increments, subject to Mr. Kingsbury on April 8, 2016. The December 2014 amendment was approved by our Board on December 8, 2014.O’Sullivan’s continued employment through the applicable vesting date.

(9)

Represents a grant of options to purchase shares of our common stock to compensate Mr. O’Sullivan for a portion of the equity awards forfeited at his prior employer pursuant to the terms of his employment agreement and which vest inone-third annual increments, subject to Mr. O’Sullivan’s continued employment through the applicable vesting date.

(10)

Mr. Katz did not receive an award under our fiscal 2019 Annual Incentive Plan and forfeited the equity awards received in fiscal 2019 in connection with his resignation as our Principal/Chief Financial Officer in September 2019.

Narrative Disclosure to Summary Compensation Table and Grants of Plan-Based Awards Table

We have written employment agreements with each of our named executive officersNEOs that provide for, among other things, the payment of base salary, reimbursement of certain costs and expenses, and for each named executive officer’sNEO’s participation in our Annual Incentive Plan and employee benefit plans. Other than in the case of our employment agreement with Messrs. O’Sullivan and Kingsbury, each of our employment agreements with our NEOs provide that we may terminate the agreement on specified expiration dates, subject to our giving the executive 90 days’ notice. The expiration dates are as follows: February 11 for Mr. Hand; March 23 for Mr. Crimmins, May 11 for Ms. Vecchio; and October 13 for Ms. Magrini. The expiration date under Mr. Katz’s employment agreement was July 9.

O’Sullivan Employment Agreement

On January 28, 2008, we

Mr. O’Sullivan entered into an employment agreement with us in April 2019. A discussion of this employment agreement, as well as Mr. HandO’Sullivan’s compensation arrangements, is set out in the CD&A under the caption entitled “CEO Succession and Management Changes.”

Kingsbury Employment Agreement

Mr. Kingsbury stepped down as our CEO effective as September 16, 2019, the date on which Mr. O’Sullivan commenced employment. Upon stepping down as amended, provides for a minimum base salaryour CEO, Mr. Kingsbury assumed the role of $500,000 and may terminate any year on February 11, upon our givingExecutive Chairman of the Board. During fiscal 2019, Mr. Hand 90 days’ notice.

On June 26, 2008, we entered intoKingsbury was party to an employment agreement with Mr. Katz which, as amended, provides for a minimum base salary of $400,000 and may terminate any year on July 9, upon our giving Mr. Katz 90 days’ notice.

On December 2, 2008, we entered into an employment agreement with Mr. Kingsbury which, asin December 2008, subsequently amended provides for a minimum base salary of $1,300,000in fiscal 2014, fiscal 2015 and does not contain a fixed expiration date.

On May 11, 2015, we entered into an employment agreement with Ms. Vecchio which provides for a minimum base salary of $650,000fiscal 2017, and may terminate any year on May 11, upon our giving Ms. Vecchio 90 days’ notice. Ms. Vecchio’s employment agreement was amended and restated on July 28, 2015.

On November 7, 2014, we entered into an employment agreement with Mr. Seeger which provides for a minimum base salary of $600,000 and may terminate any year on January 19, upon our giving Mr. Seeger 90 days’ notice.

As further discussed above undersupplemented by the section entitled “Leadership Succession and Management Development,” we entered into an amendment to Chairman Agreement.

Mr. Kingsbury’s employment agreement in December 2014 (the “December 2014 amendment”). Pursuant(as supplemented by the Chairman Agreement) outlined the basic terms of his employment and included,

among other items, provisions relating to the December 2014 amendment (as subsequently modified by amendments to Mr. Kingsbury’s employment agreement in 2015),equity awards and termination terms, as follows:

 

Mr. Kingsbury will bewas entitled to receive a long-term equity award during each ofan LTIP Award in May 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 (each, an “LTIP Award”) that will, in each case, be equal to the difference between (i) 450% of his base salary minus (ii) the Excess Value (defined as the product of A x B, where “A” equals the number of options granted pursuant to Mr. Kingsbury’sNon-Qualified Stock Option Agreement dated as of June 17, 2013 (the “Options”) that will vest in the ordinary course during the12- month period following the applicable LTIP Award grant date, and “B” equals (x) $28.00 minus (y) the per share exercise price of the Options as determined at the time of vesting).salary. The form of, and terms and conditions applicable to, eachthe LTIP Award will bewas substantially similar to that of long-term equity awards made to the Company’s senior executives for the applicable year; provided that, in addition to the ordinary vesting terms provided therein, (i) 100% of eachthe LTIP Award willwould vest if Mr. Kingsbury’s employment iswas terminated due to death and (ii) a pro rata portion of the portion of eachthe LTIP Award that would vest on the next regular vesting date for such LTIP Award willwould vest if Mr. Kingsbury’s employment iswas terminated by us for a reason other than cause, by Mr. Kingsbury for good reason or due to his disability (the “Special Vesting Conditions”).

 

Mr. Kingsbury received aone-time grant of 150,000 shares of restricted stock on December 15, 2014 that will vest on July 1, 2019, subject to Mr. Kingsbury’s employment through such date; provided, that: (A) if Mr. Kingsbury’s employment is terminated (i) by us for a reason other than for cause, (ii) by Mr. Kingsbury for good reason or (iii) due to his disability, the shares of restricted stock will vest on a pro rata basis calculated in accordance with the formula contained in the December 2014 amendment; provided that if any such termination occurs following a change in control, 100% of the shares of restricted stock will immediately vest; and (B) if Mr. Kingsbury’s employment is terminated due to his death, 100% of the shares of restricted stock will immediately vest.

Beginning in 2014, Mr. Kingsbury also became eligible to receive a cash award of $225,000 on December 15 of each year in which he remained employed by us on such date. In May 2015, however, Mr. Kingsbury’s employment agreement was further amended to remove these annual cash awards prospectively and increase Mr. Kingsbury’s annual incentive target under our Annual Incentive Plan from 125% to 150%. The effect was to generally retain Mr. Kingsbury’s total target compensation while increasing the portion that is directly tied to performance. The Committee separately determined that the initial cash award paid to Mr. Kingsbury on December 15, 2014 was appropriate in light of our performance in fiscal 2014.

Upon a termination without cause, or if Mr. Kingsbury resigned for good reason, Mr. Kingsbury’sKingsbury was entitled to severance pay and benefits for a three-year period were extended from two years to three years following such termination.

Upon Mr. Kingsbury’s Retirement (as defined in the amendment to mean“Retirement” (a voluntary termination of employment on or after July 1, 2019, provided that Mr. Kingsbury providesprovided us with 180 days’ written notice prior to such retirement), and provided that Mr. Kingsbury makes himself reasonably available to consult with the Company for up to ten days per quarter during theone-year period thereafter (the “Consulting Period”), (i) any outstanding incentive equity granted by the Company to Mr. Kingsbury that was unvested as of such Retirement shall continue to vest through the end of the Consulting Period;Period, (ii) any outstanding incentive equity granted by the Company to Mr. Kingsbury that remains unvested as of the end of such Consulting Period shall vest at the conclusion of such Consulting Period;Period, and (iii) the exercise period of any options granted by the Company to

Mr. Kingsbury shall be extended until the second anniversary of the later of (x) such Retirement and

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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

(y) the date such options vest; provided that such exercise periods shall not be extended beyond the original term of the option agreement.

We entered into a further amendment to

Mr. Kingsbury’s employment as Executive Chairman continued until the conclusion of the Executive Chairman Term, at which point he resigned from all positions with the Company, including as a member of the Board, and the post-Retirement consulting period provided for in his employment agreement in January 2017 (the “January 2017 amendment”), pursuant to whichcommenced. During the Executive Chairman Term, (i) Mr. Kingsbury’s annual base salary was increasedKingsbury provided transition and other related services to $1,300,000 (from $1,170,283) effective January 22, 2017;the Company to transition his executive responsibilities to Mr. O’Sullivan and performed such other duties normally assigned to an Executive Chairman of a publicly-traded corporation; and (ii) Mr. Kingsbury received aone-time grant of 100,000 shares of restricted common stock ofKingsbury’s compensation and benefits continued at the Company (vesting ratably over four years) on January 23, 2017, subjectsame level as they have been during fiscal 2019. Pursuant to the Special Vesting Conditions; and (iii) the value of the annual LTIP award to be made to Mr. Kingsbury in each of 2017, 2018 and 2019 will not be reduced by the Excess Value. The Board determined that these compensation adjustments were appropriate in light of our strong sustained performance, consistent growth and delivery of significant stockholder value under the leadership of Mr. Kingsbury, who has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer since 2008.Chairman

Agreement, Mr. Kingsbury remained eligible to receive a fiscal 2019 annual incentive award, based on actual performance during fiscal year 2019. Mr. Kingsbury was not entitled to any severance upon the expiration of the Executive Chairman Term.

Our employment agreements also restrict each named executive officer’sNEO’s ability to engage in or perform any activities that are competitive with our business or to solicit our employees away from our service while we employ the executive and for a period of one to two years thereafter. Additionally, we have written agreements with our named executive officers pursuant to which we have granted them shares of restricted stock and options to purchase shares under our 2006 Incentive Plan or our 2013 Incentive Plan. For additional information regarding such grants, please refer to the section above entitled “Long-Term Incentives.”

In addition, each employment agreement specifies payments and benefits that would be due to such named executive officerNEO upon the termination of his or her employment with us. For additional information regarding amounts payable upon termination to each of our named executive officers,NEOs, see the discussion below under the caption entitled “Potential Payments Upon Termination orChange-in-Control. Change in Control.

Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal 2019Year-End

The following table below sets forth information with respect to the outstanding stock options and shares of unvested restricted stock held by each named executive officerNEO as of January 28, 2017:February 1, 2020.

 

     Option Awards  Stock Awards 

Name

 Grant
Date
  Number of
Shares
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Exercisable
  Number of
Shares
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Unexercisable(1)
  Option
Exercise Price
($/Share)
  Option
Expiration
Date
  Number of
Shares
That
Have
Not
Vested
(#)(2)
  Market Value
of Shares of
Stock That
Have Not
Vested ($)(3)
 

Thomas A. Kingsbury

  6/17/2013   176,000(4)   264,000(4)   4.55   6/17/2023   —     —   
  12/15/2014   —     —     —     —     150,000(5)   12,136,500 
  5/1/2015   —     —     —     —     10,053   813,388 
  5/1/2015   23,121   69,365   52.02   5/1/2025   —     —   
  4/8/2016   —     —     —     —     13,966   1,129,989 
  4/8/2016   —     96,361   54.58   4/8/2026   —     —   
  1/23/2017   —     —     —     —     100,000   8,091,000 

Marc Katz

  6/20/2013   4,000(4)   66,000(4)   4.55   6/20/2023   —     —   
  1/12/2015   —     —     —     —     10,000(6)   809,100 
  5/1/2015   —     —     —     —     2,083   168,536 
  5/1/2015   4,789   14,370   52.02   5/1/2025   —     —   
  4/8/2016   —     —     —     —     2,767   223,878 
  4/8/2016   —     19,090   54.58   4/8/2026   —     —   

Fred Hand

  6/17/2013   —     66,000(4)   4.55   6/17/2023   —     —   
  5/1/2015   —     —     —     —     10,000(7)   809,100 
  5/1/2015   —     —     —     —     2,083   168,536 
  5/1/2015   4,789   14,370   52.02   5/1/2025   —     —   
  4/8/2016   —     —     —     —     2,767   223,878 
  4/8/2016   —     19,090   54.58   4/8/2026   —     —   
  6/29/2016   —     —     —     —     30,000(8)   2,427,300 

Rick Seeger

  1/20/2015   —     —     —     —     17,539(9)   1,419,080 
  5/1/2015   —     —     —     —     898   72,657 
  5/1/2015   —     6,195   52.02   5/1/2025   —     —   
  4/8/2016   —     —     —     —     4,226   341,926 
  4/8/2016   —     29,156   54.58   4/8/2026   —     —   

Jennifer Vecchio

  5/11/2015   —     —     —     —     4,024   325,582 
  5/11/2015   9,254   27,762   53.01   5/11/2025   —     —   
  11/11/2015   —     —     —     —     37,500   3,034,125 
  4/8/2016   —     —     —     —     5,185   419,518 
  4/8/2016   —     35,776   54.58   4/8/2026   —     —   
    Option Awards   Stock Awards

Name

 Grant
Date
 Number of
Shares
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Exercisable
 Number of
Shares
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Unexercisable(1)  
 Option
Exercise Price
($/Share)
 Option
Expiration
Date
   Number of
Shares or Units
That
Have
Not
Vested
(#)(2)
 Market Value
of Shares or Units
of
Stock That
Have Not
Vested
($)(3)
 

Equity

Incentive

Plan

Awards:

Unearned

Shares,

Units or

Other

Rights
That

Have Not

Vested

(#)(4)

 

Equity

Incentive

Plan Awards:

Market or

Payout Value

of Unearned

Shares, Units

or Other

Rights That

Have Not

Vested

($)(5)

Michael O’Sullivan

   9/16/2019   —     174,235(6)   192.27   9/16/29     —     —     —     —  
   9/16/2019   —     —     —     —       65,013(7)   14,138,377   —     —  
   9/16/2019   —     18,227   192.27   9/16/29     —     —     —     —  
   9/16/2019   —     —     —     —       6,904   1,501,413   —     —  
   9/16/2019   —     —     —     —       —     —     13,808   3,002,826

Thomas A. Kingsbury

   6/17/2013   200,000(8)   —     4.55   6/17/2023     —     —     —     —  
   5/1/2015   92,486   —     52.02   5/1/2025     —     —     —     —  
   4/8/2016   —     —     —     —       3,492   759,405   —     —  
   4/8/2016   72,270   24,091   54.58   4/8/2026     —     —     —     —  
   1/23/2017   —     —     —     —       25,000   5,436,750   —     —  
   5/1/2017   —     —     —     —       7,393   1,607,756   —     —  
   5/1/2017   51,007   51,008   98.92   5/1/2027     —     —     —     —  
   5/1/2018   —     —     —     —       8,103   1,762,159   —     —  
   5/1/2018   22,282   66,849   135.37   5/1/2028     —     —     —     —  
   5/1/2019   —     —     —     —       8,857   1,926,132   —     —  
   5/1/2019   —     24,534   170.08   5/1/2029     —     —     —     —  
    5/1/2019   —     —     —     —          —     —     17,714   3,852,264

66 | Burlington Stores, Inc. 2020 Proxy Statement

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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

    Option Awards   Stock Awards

Name

 Grant
Date
 Number of
Shares
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Exercisable
 Number of
Shares
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Unexercisable(1)
 Option
Exercise Price
($/Share)
 Option
Expiration
Date
   Number of
Shares or Units
That
Have
Not
Vested
(#)(2)
 Market Value
of Shares or Units
of
Stock That
Have Not
Vested
($)(3)
 

Equity

Incentive

Plan

Awards:

Unearned

Shares,

Units or

Other

Rights
That

Have Not

Vested

(#)(4)

 

Equity

Incentive

Plan Awards:

Market or

Payout Value

of Unearned

Shares, Units

or Other

Rights That

Have Not

Vested

($)(5)

John Crimmins

   6/18/2013   —     4,400(8)   4.55   6/18/23     —     —     —     —  
   4/8/2016   —     —     —     —       261   56,760   —     —  
   4/8/2016   —     599   54.58   4/8/2026     —     —     —     —  
   5/1/2017   —     —     —     —       5,000(9)   1,087,350   —     —  
   5/1/2017   —     —     —     —       1,293   281,189   —     —  
   5/1/2017   —     2,974   98.92   5/1/2027     —     —     —     —  
   5/1/2018   —     —     —     —       884   192,243   —     —  
   5/1/2018   —     7,047   135.37   5/1/2028     —     —     —     —  
   5/1/2019   —     —     —     —       938   203,987   —     —  
   5/1/2019   —     2,484   170.08   5/1/2029     —     —     —     —  
   5/1/2019   —     —     —     —       —     —     1,875   407,756

Marc Katz (11)

   —     —     —     —     —       —     —     —     —  

Jennifer Vecchio

   5/11/2015   24,000   —     53.01   5/11/2025     —     —     —     —  
   4/8/2016   —     —     —     —       1,297   282,059   —     —  
   4/8/2016   7,832   8,944   54.58   4/8/2026     —     —     —     —  
   1/30/2017   —     —     —     —       336   73,070   —     —  
   1/30/2017   6,951   2,318   80.91   1/30/2027     —     —     —     —  
   5/1/2017   —     —     —     —       2,204   479,304   —     —  
   5/1/2017   15,204   15,205   98.92   5/1/2027     —     —     —     —  
   5/1/2018   —     —     —     —       2,416   525,408   —     —  
   5/1/2018   6,424   19,275   135.37   5/1/2028     —     —     —     —  
   5/1/2019   —     —     —     —       3,975   864,443   —     —  
   5/1/2019   —     10,534   170.08   5/1/2029     —     —     —     —  
   5/1/2019   —     —     —     —       —     —     7,950   1,728,887

Fred Hand

   4/8/2016   —     —     —     —       692   150,489   —     —  
   4/8/2016   —     4,773   54.58   4/8/2026     —     —     —     —  
   6/29/2016   —     —     —     —       30,000(10)   6,524,100   —     —  
   1/30/2017   —     —     —     —       325   70,678   —     —  
   1/30/2017   2,242   2,243   80.91   1/30/2027     —     —     —     —  
   5/1/2017   —     —     —     —       2,133   463,865   —     —  
   5/1/2017   —     14,714   98.92   5/1/2027     —     —     —     —  
   5/1/2018   —     —     —     —       2,338   508,445   —     —  
   5/1/2018   6,217   18,653   135.37   5/1/2028     —     —     —     —  
   5/1/2019   —     —     —     —       2,543   553,026   —     —  
   5/1/2019   —     6,738   170.08   5/1/2029     —     —     —     —  
   5/1/2019   —     —     —     —       —     —     5,085   1,105,835

Joyce Manning Magrini

   6/17/2013   —     44,000(6)   4.55   6/17/2023     —     —     —     —  
   4/8/2016   —     —     —     —       220   47,843   —     —  
   4/8/2016   —     1,516   54.58   4/8/2026     —     —     —     —  
   5/1/2017   —     —     —     —       750   163,103   —     —  
   5/1/2017   —     5,174   98.92   5/1/2027     —     —     —     —  
   5/1/2018   —     —     —     —       867   188,546   —     —  
   5/1/2018   —     6,909   135.37   5/1/2028     —     —     —     —  
   5/1/2019   —     —     —     —       942   204,857   —     —  
   5/1/2019   —     2,496   170.08   5/1/2029     —     —     —     —  
    5/1/2019   —     —     —     —          —     —     1,884   409,713

 

(1)

Unless otherwise noted, all options (other than SpecialOne-Time Grants) (i) vestone-quarter on each of the first four anniversaries of the grant date; (ii) granted prior to 2016 become exercisable upon a change in control; (iii) granted from and after 2016 become exercisable if, within two years following a change in control, the executive’s employment is terminated by us without cause or the executive resigns with good reason; (iv)(iii) will immediately be forfeited upon a termination of employment by us for cause; and (v)

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(iv) that have not vested will be forfeited immediately, and unexercised vested options will be exercisable for a period of 60 days (or 180 days, in the case of options granted in fiscal 2019), in the event of termination of employment for any other reason. Mr. Kingsbury’s SpecialOne-Time Grant agreement provides a formulareason; and (v) granted in fiscal 2019 provide for calculating a number of options which will vestfully accelerated vesting in the event that Mr. Kingsbury’s employment is terminated without causeof death or Mr. Kingsbury resigns with good reason. All other options granteddisability andpro-rata accelerated vesting in the event of termination due to Mr. Kingsbury are subject to the Special Vesting Conditions.a reduction in force or retirement.

(2)

The amounts set forth in this column represent RSUs granted in fiscal 2019 and shares of restricted stock granted in all prior years. Unless otherwise noted, (i) all restricted stock grantor RSU awards vestone-quarter on each of the first four anniversaries of the grant date; and (ii) shares of restricted stock or RSUs vest only in the event that the recipient remains continuously employed by us on each vesting date; and (iii)date, provided, however, that (a) all unvested shares of restricted stock or RSUs will vest if the executive’sNEO’s employment is terminated by us without cause or the recipient resigns with good reason (a) following a change in control (in the case of shares of restricted stock granted prior to 2016), or (b) within two years following a change in control (incontrol; and (b) vesting of RSUs will fully accelerate in the caseevent of sharesdeath or disability and will accelerate on apro-rata basis in the event of restricted stock granted from and after 2016).termination due to a reduction in force or retirement. Except as otherwise noted, each of Mr. Kingsbury’s restricted stock and RSU grants are subject to the Special Vesting Conditions.Conditions described above under the caption entitled “Narrative Disclosure to Summary Compensation Table and Grants of Plan-Based Awards Table.”

(3)

The amounts set forth in this column represent the market value of the unvested shares oftime-based restricted stock and RSUs held by the named executive officerNEO using a market price of $80.91$217.47 per share, which was the closing price of our common stock on January 27, 201731, 2020 (the last business day of fiscal 2016)2019), as reported by the NYSE.

(4)

Represents PSU awards, which are earned upon the completion of the three-year performance period ending January 29, 2022, based on achievement ofpre- established EBIT margin expansion and sales CAGR goals (each weighted equally). Based on our achievement of these goals, each NEO’s award may range from 50% (at threshold performance) to no more than 200% of his or her target award. In the event that actual performance is below threshold, no award will be made. Because these goals are measured on a cumulative basis over the three-year performance period, the reported number of shares assumes achievement of the target level of performance. PSUs vest only in the event that the recipient remains continuously employed by us through the end of the performance period provided, however, that (a) the recipient’s award shall vest as of the date of termination, assuming that performance goals were satisfied at target, in the event that the NEO’s employment is terminated by us without cause or the recipient resigns with good reason within two years following a change in control; and (b) the recipient’s award shall vest on apro-rata basis in the event of death or disability or in the event of termination due to a reduction in force or retirement. Except as otherwise noted, each of Mr. Kingsbury’s restricted stock or restricted stock unit grants are subject to the Special Vesting Conditions described above under the caption entitled “Narrative Disclosure to Summary Compensation Table and Grants of Plan-Based Awards Table.”

(5)

The amounts set forth in this column represent the market value of PSUs held by the NEO using a market price of $217.47 per share, which was the closing price of our common stock on January 31, 2020 (the last business day of fiscal 2019), as reported by the NYSE.

(6)

Represents a grant of options to purchase shares of our common stock to compensate Mr. O’Sullivan for a portion of the equity awards forfeited at his prior employer pursuant to the terms of his employment agreement and which vest inone-third annual increments, subject to Mr. O’Sullivan’s continued employment through the applicable vesting date.

(7)

Represents a grant of RSUs to compensate Mr. O’Sullivan for a portion of the equity awards forfeited at his prior employer pursuant to the terms of his employment agreement and which vest inone-third annual increments, subject to Mr. O’Sullivan’s continued employment through the applicable vesting date.

(8)

SpecialOne-Time Grant which vests over a five-year period commencing on the Trigger Date, which is the day after the vesting of all other options held by grantee which were granted to such grantee prior to May 2013 and remain outstanding and unvested as of the date of the SpecialOne-Time Grant, according to the following schedule: 20% on each of the first five anniversaries of the Trigger Date. The vesting of SpecialOne-Time Grants will not be accelerated in the event of a change in control, provided, however, that in the event that within two years after a change in control, the grantee’s employment is terminated without cause or the grantee resigns with good reason, then an incremental 20% of the SpecialOne-Time Grants shall be deemed vested as of the date of termination of grantee’s employment, but in no event more than the total number of SpecialOne-Time Grants granted to such grantee.

(5)(9)

Provided that he remains continuously employed by us on such date, 100% of Mr. Kingsbury’sthese shares of restricted stock will vest on JulyMay 1, 2019; provided, that: (i) if Mr. Kingsbury’s employment is terminated (a) by us for a reason other than for cause, (b) by Mr. Kingsbury for good reason or (c) due to his disability, the shares of restricted stock will vest on a pro rata basis calculated in accordance with the formula contained in the December 2014 amendment; provided that if any such termination occurs following a change in control, 100% of the shares of restricted stock will immediately vest; and (ii) if Mr. Kingsbury’s employment is terminated due to his death, 100% of the shares of restricted stock will immediately vest.2021.

(6)(10)

Provided that he remains continuously employed by us on such date, 100% of Mr. Katz’sthese shares of restricted stock will vest on January 12, 2018.

(7)Provided that he remains continuously employed by us on such date, 100% of Mr. Hand’s shares of restricted stock will vest on May 1, 2018.
(8)Provided that he remains continuously employed by us on such date, 100% of Mr. Hand’s shares of restricted stock will vest on May 4, 2020.
(9)Provided that he remains continuously employed by us on such date, 100% of Mr. Seeger’s shares of restricted stock will vest on October 1, 2017.

(11)

In connection with his resignation as our Principal/Chief Financial Officer in September 2019, Mr. Katz forfeited any equity awards that were unvested at the time of his resignation. Stock options held by Mr. Katz that were vested and unexercised at the time of his resignation remained exercisable by him for 60 days following such resignation.

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Fiscal 2019 Option Exercises and Stock Vested

The following table sets forth information regarding stock options exercised by our named executive officers,NEOs, and the vesting of our named executive officers’NEOs’ restricted stock, during fiscal 2016.2019.

 

  Option Awards   Stock Awards   Option Awards       Stock Awards 

Name

  Number of Shares
Acquired on
Exercise (#)
   Value Realized
on Exercise ($)(1)
   Number of
Shares Acquired
on Vesting (#)
   Value Realized
on Vesting ($)(2)
   Number of Shares
Acquired on
Exercise (#)
   Value Realized
on Exercise ($)(1)
       Number of
Shares Acquired
on Vesting (#)
   Value Realized
on Vesting ($)(2)
 

Michael O’Sullivan

   —      —        —      —   

Thomas A. Kingsbury

   —      —      3,351    193,453    100,000    15,504,264      188,239    33,449,830 

John Crimmins

   9,317    1,158,808      1,201    200,925 

Marc Katz

   18,000    1,436,181    694    40,065    62,645    8,777,118      3,232    540,806 

Jennifer Vecchio

   32,016    5,101,552      17,381    3,312,476 

Fred Hand

   22,000    1,302,847    694    40,065    67,675    9,207,405      3,557    611,747 

Rick Seeger

   2,064    17,665    17,837    1,409,778 

Jennifer Vecchio

   —      —      13,841    981,752 

Joyce Manning Magrini

   34,022    4,928,760       883    147,354 

 

(1)

Represents the difference between the weighted average selling price and the exercise price, multiplied by the number of shares acquired on exercise. Included in this column are the following amounts of shares underlying option awards that were sold (in the aggregate) to cover withholding tax obligations due upon exercise: Mr. Kingsbury—$6,831,179; Mr. Crimmins—$491,566; Mr. Katz—$4,243,737; Mr. Hand—$3,905,781; Ms. Vecchio—$2,692,559; and Ms. Magrini—$2,090,780.

(2)

Represents the value realized upon vesting based on the closing price of our common stock on the vesting date, which was (i) $53.04$157.23 in the case of 1,3413,491, 260, 692, 1,296, 692 and 220 for shares of Mr. Kingsbury, Mr. Crimmins, Mr. Katz, Ms. Vecchio, Mr. Hand and Ms. Magrini, respectively, that vested on April 8, 2019; (ii) $170.08 in the case of 9,748, 941, 2,540, 1,907, 2,540 and 663 for shares of Mr. Kingsbury, Mr. Crimmins, Mr. Katz, Ms. Vecchio, Mr. Hand and Ms. Magrini, respectively, that vested on May 1, 2019; (iii) $155.94 in the case of 1,342 of Ms. Vecchio’s shares that vested on May 11, 2016; (ii) $72.852019; (iv) $170.76 in the case of 150,000 of Mr. Kingsbury’s shares that vested on July 1, 2019; (v) $200.14 in the case of 12,500 of Ms. Vecchio’s shares that vested on November 11, 2016; (iii) $79.402019; (vi) $225.16 in the case of 17,53825,000 of Mr. Seeger’sKingsbury’s shares that vested on October 3, 2016;January 23, 2020; and (iv) $57.73(vii) $218.28 in the case of all other325 and 336 for shares whichof Mr. Hand and Ms. Vecchio, respectively, that vested on May 2, 2016,January 30, 2020; multiplied in each case by the number of restricted shares vesting. TheIncluded in this column are the following amounts of restricted shares that were forfeitedwithheld (in the aggregate) to cover withholding tax obligations due upon vesting: Mr. Kingsbury - 1,564;Kingsbury—82,937; Mr. Katz - 238;Crimmins—327; Mr. Hand - 211;Katz—1,498; Mr. Seeger - 6,987;Hand—1,366; Ms. Vecchio—8,908; and Ms. Vecchio - 6,251.Magrini—240.

PensionBenefitsPension Benefits

None of our named executive officers participate in or have account balances in

The Company does not maintain any qualified ornon-qualified defined benefit plans sponsored by us.plans.

Nonqualified Deferred Compensation

None of our named executive officers participate in or have account balances in

The Company does not maintain any defined contribution or other plan that provides for the deferral of compensation on a basis that is nottax-qualified.

Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control

The following is a discussion of payments and benefits that would be due to each of our named executive officersNEOs upon the termination of his or her employment with us, including termination in connection with a change in control. The amounts in the table“Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control Table” below assume that each termination was effective as of January 27, 2017,31, 2020, the

last business day of fiscal 2016,2019, and are merely illustrative of the impact of a hypothetical termination of each executive’s employment. The amounts to be payable upon an actual termination of employment can only be determined at the time of such termination based on the facts and circumstances then prevailing.

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Employment Agreements

We maintain employment agreements with each of our named executive officersNEOs that provide certain benefits upon termination of employment.

Termination Without Cause or for Good Reason

Each named executive officer’sNEO’s employment agreement provides that he or she will be entitled to receive the following in the event that (i) his or her employment is terminated by us without “cause” orcause,” by him or her for “good reason” (as those terms are defined below), or (ii) other than Mr. O’Sullivan or Mr. Kingsbury, the term of his or her employment expires on the expiration date specified in his or her agreement:

 

all previously earned and accrued but unpaid base salary and vacation and unpaid business expenses up to the date of such termination or expiration;

 

with respectany bonus earned for the fiscal year prior to Messrs. Kingsbury, Katzthe termination year or the expiration year, as applicable, but then unpaid, as well as (i) for Mr. O’Sullivan, an amount equal to two times the target bonus under the Annual Incentive Plan for the year in which termination occurs; and Hand,(ii) for each other NEO, apro-rated portion of the then-current year’s annual target performance bonus under the Annual Incentive Plan through the date of termination or expiration, based on actual results (the “Annual Incentive Payment”);

 

severance pay (the “Severance Payment”) (i) for Mr. O’Sullivan in an amount equal to two times his base salary; and (ii) for each other NEO, the full amount of his or her base salary at the time of termination or expiration from the date of termination or expiration, as applicable, through the period ending on the first anniversary of the date of termination or expiration (in Mr. Kingsbury’s case, the third anniversary of the date of termination); and

 

full continuation (“Benefits Continuation”) of (i) Mr. O’Sullivan’s health, dental and vision insurance benefits during thetwo-year period commending on the date of termination; (ii) health, disability and life insurance benefits during theone-year period commencing on the date of termination (in Mr. Kingsbury’s case, a three yearthree-year period commencing on the date of termination) with respect to Ms. Magrini and Messrs. Kingsbury, and Hand, and Katz, provided that to the extent any of those benefits cannot be provided by us during the applicable period, we will provide the executive with a sum of money calculated to permit him to obtain the same benefits individually, as well as reimbursement for related taxes so that he remains whole; and (ii) health insurance benefits during theone-year period commencing on the date of termination(iii) with respect to Ms. Vecchio, medical, dental and vision insurance benefits, and with respect to Mr. Seeger, butCrimmins, medical insurance benefits, during the one year severance period (but only to the extent such medical insurance benefit was previously elected by the executive and in effect immediately prior to the date of termination, and can be provided under our medical insurance plan during such period, provided that to the extent such benefits cannot be provided by us during such period, we will provide the executive with a sum of money calculated to permit the executive to obtain the same benefits individually, as well as reimbursement for related taxes so that the executive remains whole.

extent such benefits were previously elected by such NEO and in effect immediately prior to the date of termination); provided that, with respect to (ii) and (iii), to the extent any of those benefits cannot be provided by us during the applicable period, we will provide the executive with a sum of money calculated to permit the executive to obtain the same benefits individually, as well as reimbursement for related taxes so that the executive remains whole.

Except as otherwise stated, such payments will be made by us in regular installments in accordance with our general payroll practices. All amounts payable as compensation are subject to all customary withholding, payroll and other taxes.

If, during the period when either Ms. Vecchio or Mr. Seeger is receiving Severance Payment or Benefits Continuation, he or she receives compensation from any source for services which are substantially similar to services provided under his or her employment agreement with us or accepts employment with a third party,

(i) his or her Severance Payment will be reduced by the amount of any compensation received by him or her from such third party or new employer in respect of any services to be provided during the period prior to the first anniversary of termination or expiration, and (ii) Benefits Continuation will immediately cease on the earlier of the date he or she is first entitled to receive medical insurance benefits from his or her new employer or the first anniversary of the date of termination or expiration. Mr. Kingsbury’s rights to receive Benefits Continuation will cease at such time as he is eligible to be covered under the hospital, health, disability, medical or life insurance benefits, as applicable, of any subsequent employer.

Each named executive officerNEO shall be entitled to receive the Annual Incentive Payment, Severance Payment and Benefits Continuation, as applicable, only in the event that he or she:

 

executes a release of claims in respect of his or her employment with us; and

 

has not breached, as of the date of termination or at any time during the period for which such payments or services are to be made, certain restrictive covenants (“Restrictive Covenants”) contained in his or her employment agreement regarding (i) confidentiality, (ii) intellectual property rights, and(iii) non-competition andnon-solicitation (each of which extend for a period of one year (or two years, in the case of Mr. O’Sullivan or Mr. Kingsbury) following termination of employment).

Our obligation to make such payments or provide such services will terminate upon the occurrence of any such breach during such period.

For purposes of each named executive officer’sNEO’s employment agreement,

 

“cause” means the named executive officerNEO (i) is convicted of a felony or other crime involving dishonesty towards us or material misuse of our property; (ii) engages in willful misconduct or fraud with respect to us or any of our customers or suppliers or an intentional act of dishonesty or disloyalty in the course of his or her employment; (iii) refuses to perform his or her material obligations under his or her employment agreement which failure is not cured after written notice to him or her; (iv) misappropriates one or more of our material assets or business opportunities; or (v) breaches a Restrictive Covenant which breach, if capable of being cured, is not cured within 10 days of written notice to him or her; and

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written notice to him or her; or (vi) with respect to Mr. O’Sullivan, materially breaches his employment agreement or any written policy of the Company, including the Company’s policies prohibiting unlawful harassment, discrimination or retaliation, which breach, if capable of being cured, is not cured within 15 days after written notice to him; and

 

“good reason” means the occurrence of any of the following events without the written consent of the named executive officer:NEO: (i) a material diminution of his or her duties or the assignment to him or her of duties that are inconsistent in any substantial respect with the position, authority or responsibilities associated with his or her position; (ii) our requiring him or her to be based at a location which is 50 or more miles from his or her principal office location on the date he or she commences employment with us; or (iii) a material breach by us of our obligations pursuant to his or her employment agreement (which breach goes uncured after notice and a reasonable opportunity to cure). No such condition is deemed to be “good reason” unless (i) we are notified within 30 days of the initial existence of such condition (or 60 days with respect to Mr. Seeger) and are provided with a period of at least 30 days from the date of notice to remedy the condition, and (ii) (a) with respect to each named executive officerNEO other than Mr. Kingsbury, within 10 days after the expiration of such period (but in no event later than 120 days after the initial existence of the condition), the named executive officerNEO actually terminates his or her employment with us by providing written notice of resignation for our failure to remedy the condition; or (b) with respect to Mr. Kingsbury, at any time during the period commencing 10 days after the expiration of such period and ending 180 days after Mr. Kingsbury’s knowledge of the initial existence of the condition (but in all events within two years after the initial existence of said condition), Mr. Kingsbury actually terminates his employment with us by providing written notice of resignation for our failure to remedy the condition.

Mr. Kingsbury, at any time during the period commencing 10 days after the expiration of such period and ending 180 days after Mr. Kingsbury’s knowledge of the initial existence of the condition (but in all events within two years after the initial existence of said condition), Mr. Kingsbury actually terminates his employment with us by providing written notice of resignation for our failure to remedy the condition.

Termination for Any Other Reason

In the event that he or she is terminated for any other reason, including as a result of his or her death, disability, voluntary resignation for other than good reason (except in the event of Mr. Kingsbury’s Retirement) or by resolution of our Board of Directors for cause, each named executive officer’sNEO’s employment agreement provides that he or she shall be entitled to receive only all previously earned and accrued but unpaid base salary, vacation and unpaid business expenses up to the date of such termination. A discussion of the benefits to be received by Mr. Kingsbury in connection with his Retirement is included above under the caption entitled “Narrative Disclosure to Summary Compensation Table and Grants of Plan-Based Awards Table.”Table” and prior to the “Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control Table” below.

Change-in-ControlChange in Control

None of our named executive officersNEOs are entitled to receive any payments upon achange-in-control change in control pursuant to the terms of his or her employment agreement.

Option and Restricted Stock

Equity Grant Agreements

The terms of the option agreements and restricted stockour equity grant agreements with each of our named executive officersNEOs include certain provisions regarding accelerated vesting upon a change in control and, in the case of Mr. Kingsbury, termination of employment. Such provisions are discussedemployment under various circumstances, as detailed in the table below and above under the captions entitled “Long Term Incentives,” “Outstanding Equity Awards at FiscalYear-End” and “Narrative Disclosure to Summary Compensation Table and Grants of Plan-Based Awards Table.”below.

 

  Termination Without Cause or for Good Reason or
Expiration of Employment Agreement
  Termination
for
Any Other
Reason
($)(5)
  Option
Acceleration
Upon
Change of
Control
or Death
($)(6)
  Restricted
Stock
Acceleration
Upon
Change of
Control or
Death
($)(7)
 

Name

 Base
Salary
($)(1)
  Non-Equity
Incentive
Plan
Compensation
($)(2)
  Health
Insurance
Continuation
($)(3)
  Life and
Disability
Insurance
Continuation
($)(3)
  Option and
Restricted
Stock
Acceleration
($)(4)
    

Thomas A. Kingsbury

  3,900,000   2,763,150   9,976   6,394   12,132,429   —     16,300,580   22,170,877 

Marc Katz

  659,200   700,565   9,013   4,483   —     —     2,597,709   1,201,514 

Fred Hand

  659,200   700,565   10,043   4,483   —     —     2,597,709   3,628,814 

Rick Seeger

  634,768   —     10,013   —     —     —     946,651   1,833,663 

Jennifer Vecchio

  681,260   —     —     —     —     —     1,716,542   3,779,225 
EventStock OptionsRSUs/RestrictedStock PSUs

Change in Control and Termination Without Cause or Resignation for Good Reason Within Subsequent Two Year Period

Fully accelerate or all awards other than SpecialOne-Time Grants(1)Fully accelerateFully accelerate (at target)

Change in Control (Without Termination of Employment)

Vesting continues

under normal terms

Vesting continues

under normal terms

Vesting continues

under normal terms

Death or Disability

Fully accelerate (for awards

granted from and after May 2019)

Fully accelerate (for awards

granted from and after May 2019)

Pro-rated vesting

based on target

Retirement or Termination of Employment Due to Reduction in Force(2)

Pro-rated vesting (for awards

granted from and after May 2019)

Pro-rated vesting (for awards granted from and after May 2019)Pro-rated vesting based on target

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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

EventStock OptionsRSUs/RestrictedStock PSUs

Involuntary Termination with Cause

All vested and unvested awards terminate immediatelyAll unvested awards terminated immediatelyAll unvested awards terminated immediately

Involuntary Termination without Cause or Resignation for Good Reason (Outside of the Two Year Period Following a Change in Control)

All unvested awards

terminate immediately

All unvested awards terminated immediatelyAll unvested awards terminated immediately

 

(1)The amount set forth in this column (i) with respect to Mr. Kingsbury assumes that the severance pay will be provided for a period of three years in accordance with the terms of his employment agreement; and (ii) with respect to each named executive officer other than Mr. Kingsbury assumes that the severance pay will be provided for a period of one year in accordance with the terms of his or her employment agreement.
(2)The amounts set forth in this column reflect the actual award to be received pursuant to the Annual Incentive Plan with respect to fiscal 2016.
(3)The amounts set forth in this column have been calculated based upon the coverage rates and elections in effect for each of the named executive officer, and assumes that we can provide such coverage (i) for a period of three years for Mr. Kingsbury; and (ii) for a period of one year with respect to each named executive officer other than Mr. Kingsbury.
(4)The closing price of our common stock on January 27, 2017 (the last business day of fiscal 2016), as reported by the NYSE, was $80.91 per share (the “Market Price”). Upon cessation of employment and subject to the terms of the 2006 Incentive Plan or the 2013 Incentive Plan, as applicable, options and restricted stock that have not vested will terminate immediately (subject to potential acceleration in the event of a change in control, as described below, and except with respect to Mr. Kingsbury, whose option and restricted stock agreements contain a formula for calculating a number of options or shares which will vest in the event that Mr. Kingsbury’s employment is terminated without cause or by Mr. Kingsbury for good reason (or due to his disability, for all purposes other than his SpecialOne-Time Grant)). Accordingly, the amount set forth in this column represents the sum of (i) the product obtained by multiplying the number of Mr. Kingsbury’s accelerated shares of restricted stock by the Market Price (assuming withholding tax obligations due in connection with the vesting of such restricted stock are satisfied by a cash payment to us); and (ii) the product obtained by multiplying the number of Mr. Kingsbury’s accelerated options by the amount by which the Market Price exceeds the applicable exercise price.

(5)Under our employment agreement with each named executive officer, in the event that such named executive officer is terminated for any reason other than by us without cause or by him or her for good reason, including as a result of death, disability, voluntary resignation for other than good reason (except in the event of Mr. Kingsbury’s Retirement) or by resolution of our Board of Directors for cause, he or she shall be entitled to receive only all previously earned and accrued but unpaid base salary, vacation and unpaid business expenses up to the date of such termination.
(6)All options (other than SpecialOne-Time Grants) (i) granted prior to 2016 become exercisable upon a change in control; and (ii) granted from and after 2016 become exercisable if, within two years following a change in control, the executive’s employment is terminated by us without cause or the executive resigns with good reason. Mr. Kingsbury’s options (other than his SpecialOne-Time Grant) also become exercisable upon termination of employment due to death. The vesting of SpecialOne-Time Grants will not be accelerated in the event of a change in control,control; provided, however, that in the event thatif within two years after a change in control, the grantee’s employment is terminated without cause or the grantee resigns with good reason, then an incremental 20% of the SpecialOne-Time Grants shall be deemed vestedwill vest as of the date ofsuch termination, of grantee’s employment, but in no event more than the total number of SpecialOne-Time Grants granted to such grantee. Accordingly,

(2)

The determination as to whether a “reduction in force” has occurred will be determined by the Committee in its sole and absolute discretion. “Retirement” means an employee’s resignation from the Company occurring on or after the employee attaining age 60 with at least ten continuous years of service to the Company. As of the end of fiscal 2019, Mr. Kingsbury and Ms. Magrini were the only NEOs who had met this condition. As described below, Mr. Kingsbury’s employment agreement provides for additional benefits to be received by Mr. Kingsbury in connection with his retirement (as defined in his employment agreement).

Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control Table

The following table summarizes the compensation to be received by each Named Executive Officer other than Mr. Kingsbury and Mr. Katz in the event of a termination or change in control as of the last day of fiscal 2019.

Mr. Kingsbury’s employment as Executive Chairman continued until February 1, 2020, the last day of fiscal 2019, at which point he resigned from all positions with the Company, including as a member of the Board, and the post-retirement consulting period provided for in his employment agreement commenced. Mr. Kingsbury did not receive any severance or separation benefits from the Company in connection with his retirement other than the continued and accelerated vesting of his outstanding incentive equity grants pursuant to the terms of his employment agreement. Using the closing price of our common stock on the last business day of fiscal 2019, as reported by the NYSE, of $217.47 per share (the “Market Price”), the aggregate value of this benefit with respect to Mr. Kingsbury’s unvested (i) PSUs (assuming target performance) was $3,852,264; (ii) unvested restricted stock and RSUs was $11,492,202, and (iii) stock options was $16,622,151.

Mr. Katz resigned from the Company in September 2019 and did not receive any severance or separation benefits from the Company.

  

 

Termination Without Cause or for Good Reason or
Expiration of Employment Agreement

  Equity
Acceleration
Upon
Retirement or
Due to
Reduction in
Force
($)(6)
  Equity
Acceleration
Upon Death
or Disability
($)(6)
  Equity
Acceleration
Upon
Change in
Control
($)(7)
 

Name

 Severance
Pay
($)(1)
  

Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation

($)(2)

  Health
Insurance
Continuation
($)(3)
  Life
Insurance
Continuation
($)(4)
  

Equity

Acceleration

($)(5)

 

Michael O’Sullivan

  4,089,286   —     27,268   —     —     2,882,364   20,868,271   20,454,924 

John Crimmins

  625,000   —     11,152   —     —     163,510   424,481   3,844,123 

Jennifer Vecchio

  875,000   —     —     —     —     693,419   1,799,424   7,654,746 

Fred Hand

  786,047   —     13,634   6,304   —     443,498   1,151,071   14,055,284 

Joyce Manning Magrini

  526,594   —     11,210   11,308   —     164,275   426,412   7,196,292 

(1)

The amounts set forth in this column represent (assuming that a changeseverance pay (i) for Mr. O’Sullivan in controlan amount equal to two times his base salary and fiscal 2019 target bonus; and (ii) for each other NEO, the full amount of his or her base salary at the time of termination or expiration from the date of termination or expiration, as applicable, through the period ending on the first anniversary of the date of termination or expiration.

(2)

As noted above, the finalization of fiscal 2019 bonuses has occurredbeen delayed in light of the evolvingCOVID-19 situation, and the grantee’s employment is terminated without cause or the grantee resigns with good reason) the product obtained by multiplying (a) the number of accelerated options with anCommittee retains authority to exercise price less than the Market Price, by (b) the amount by which the Market Price exceeds such exercise price.

(7)All unvested shares of restricted stock will vest if the executive’s employment is terminated by us without cause or the recipient resigns with good reason (or,negative discretion with respect to Mr. Kingsbury, dueany payment of bonuses to his disability) (a) followingthe Company’s NEO’s. Accordingly, no amounts are included in this column.

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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

(3)

The amounts set forth in this column have been calculated based upon the coverage rates and elections in effect for each NEO, and assumes that we can provide such coverage (i) for a change in control (in the caseperiod of shares of restricted stock granted prior to 2016), or (b) within two years followingfor Mr. O’Sullivan; and (ii) for a change in control (in the caseperiod of shares of restricted stock granted from and after 2016). Unvested restricted shares grantedone year with respect to each NEO other than Mr. Kingsbury vest upon his death. Accordingly, theO’Sullivan.

(4)

The amounts set forth in this column represent (assuming withholding tax obligations duethe cost to obtain life insurance coverage for a period of one year with respect to each NEO other than Mr. O’Sullivan, Mr. Crimmins or Ms. Vecchio.

(5)

Upon cessation of employment without cause or for good reason or expiration of employment agreement, and subject to the terms of the 2006 Incentive Plan or the 2013 Incentive Plan, as applicable, equity awards that have not vested will terminate immediately (subject to potential acceleration in connection with the vestingevent of restricted stock are satisfied by a cash payment to us)change in control).

(6)

The amounts set forth in these columns represent the sum of (i) the product obtained by multiplying the number of accelerated shares of restricted stock, RSUs and PSUs by the Market Price (assuming withholding tax obligations due in connection with such vesting is satisfied by a cash payment to us), and (ii) the event (a)product obtained by multiplying the number of Mr. Kingsbury’s death, or (b)accelerated options by the named executive officer’samount by which the Market Price exceeds the applicable exercise price.

(7)

The amounts set forth in these columns assume that the NEO’s employment is terminated by us without cause or he or she resigns with good reason (or, with respect to Mr. Kingsbury, due to his disability)within the requisite time period following a change in control.control and represent the sum of (i) the product obtained by multiplying the number of accelerated shares of restricted stock, RSUs and PSUs by the Market Price (assuming withholding tax obligations due in connection with such vesting is satisfied by a cash payment to us), and (ii) the product obtained by multiplying the number of accelerated options by the amount by which the Market Price exceeds the applicable exercise price.

Pay Ratio

As required by Section 953(b) of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, and Item 402(u) ofRegulation S-K, we are providing the following information about the relationship of the median annual total compensation of all our employees and the annual total compensation of Michael O’Sullivan, our Chief Executive Officer (our “CEO”). The pay ratio included in this information is a reasonable estimate calculated in a manner consistent with Item 402(u) ofRegulation S-K.

For fiscal 2019 (our last completed fiscal year), the annual total compensation of our CEO, as reported in the Fiscal 2019 Summary Compensation Table, was $31,056,597. Since Mr. O’Sullivan was appointed CEO effective September 16, 2019, we annualized his base salary and long-term annual equity grant, as well as his life insurance premium and automobile allowance, and added the disclosed values of theone-time payment he received to defray certain relocation expense, the reasonable moving expenses reimbursed to him and his make-whole long-term incentive grant to arrive at a value of $35,094,754 for purposes of calculating the ratio of annual total compensation for our CEO to the median of the annual total compensation of all employees of our Company (other than our CEO), which was $11,583 for fiscal 2019. We did not annualize theone-time payment he received to defray certain relocation expense, the reasonable moving expenses reimbursed to him and his make-whole long-term incentive grant (collectively, the“One-Time Payments”) as such amounts were not prorated or

reduced to reflect Mr. O’Sullivan’smid-year employment commencement date. As noted in the CD&A, the finalization of fiscal 2019 bonuses under the annual incentive plan has been delayed in light of the evolvingCOVID-19 situation, and the Compensation Committee retains authority to exercise negative discretion with respect to any payment of such bonuses. If the annual incentive plan funded based on the formulaic results, Mr. O’Sullivan’s annualized total compensation for pay ratio purposes would have been $37,097,891, with the annual incentive cash bonus of $2,003,138 annualized to reflect Mr. O’Sullivan’smid-year appointment.

Based on this information, for fiscal 2019 the ratio of the annual total compensation of Mr. O’Sullivan, our CEO, to the median of the annual total compensation of all employees is estimated to be 3,030 to 1. If the formulaic annual incentive result is included in Mr. O’Sullivan’s total compensation, then the fiscal 2019 ratio of the annual total compensation of Mr. O’Sullivan, our CEO, to the median of the annual total compensation of all employees is estimated to be 3,203 to 1. In addition, we have calculated a supplemental pay ratio, included below under the caption entitled “Supplemental Pay Ratio Disclosure.” The supplemental pay ratio compares the median employee compensation to the total annualized compensation of our CEO exclusive of theOne-Time Payments and should not be viewed as a substitute for the pay ratio calculated in accordance with the SEC rules.

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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

To identify the median of the annual total compensation of all our employees in 2019 and determine the annual total compensation of our 2019 median employee and the annual total compensation of our CEO, we took the following steps:

1.

We identified the median employee using our employee population on February 1, 2020, the last day of fiscal 2019. This population consisted of full-time employees and part-time (including flex) employees, all of which were located in the United States (including Puerto Rico). In determining whether independent contractors that we have retained or engaged are employees, we applied a test drawn from guidance published by the Internal Revenue Service.

2.

To identify the 2019 “median employee” from our employee population, we first determined the amount of each employee’s gross earnings (i.e., sum of base pay, cash bonus and equity compensation) as reflected in our payroll records for fiscal 2019.

In making this determination, we annualized the compensation of approximately 3,620 full-time employees and 10,352 part-time employees who were hired in fiscal 2019 but did not work for us for the entire fiscal year.

3.

We then identified our 2019 median employee from our employee population using this compensation measure, which was consistently applied to all our employees included in the calculation.

4.

For purposes of the 2019 pay ratio disclosure, we combined all of the elements of such employee’s compensation for fiscal 2019, calculated in accordance with the requirements of Item 402(c)(2)(x) of RegulationS-K, resulting in annual total compensation of $11,583. Our median employee is a part-time associate in one of our Burlington stores.

Supplemental Pay Ratio Disclosure

We understand that the CEO pay ratio is intended to provide greater transparency to annual CEO pay and how it compares to the pay of the median employee. As such, we are providing a supplemental ratio that compares the CEO’s total annualized pay of $9,835,638, which includes Mr. O’Sullivan’s annualized base salary and long-term equity grant, as well as his life insurance premium and automobile allowance, but excludes theOne-Time Payments, to the pay of the median associate. The resulting supplemental CEO pay ratio is estimated to be 849 to 1. If the formulaic annual incentive result is included in Mr. O’Sullivan’s total compensation, then the resulting supplemental CEO pay ratio is estimated to be 1,022 to 1. These supplemental pay ratios are not a substitute for the pay ratio calculated in accordance with the SEC disclosure rules, but we believe these supplemental ratios provide a representative comparison to Mr. O’Sullivan’s annual compensation.

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CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONSCertain Relationships and Related Party Transactions

Incentive Plans

In connection with the acquisition of Burlington Coat Factory Warehouse Corporation in April 2006 by affiliates of Bain Capital Partners, LLC, Burlington Coat Factory Holdings, Inc. adopted the 2006 Incentive Plan, which terminated in April 2016. In connection with the IPO, we adopted the 2013 Incentive Plan. The 2006 Incentive Plan provided, and the 2013 Incentive Plan provides, for grants of awards to employees,non-employee directors and consultants. As of January 28, 2017, there were 5,789,898 shares of our common stock available for future grant under the 2013 Incentive Plan.

Merchandise Purchases

Jim Magrini,brother-in-law of Joyce Manning Magrini, our Executive Vice President of President—Human Resources, is an independent sales representative of one of our suppliers of merchandise inventory. This relationship predated the commencement of Ms. Magrini’s employment with us. The dollar amount of our merchandise inventory purchases through Mr. Magrini serving as an independent sales representative for such supplier amounted to approximately $2.1 million in$3,253,227 from the beginning of fiscal 2016.2019 through the end of February 2020. Mr. Magrini’s sales commissions generated by virtue of these transactions amounted to approximately $42,000.$52,884.

Indemnification Agreements

We are party to indemnification agreements with each of our current directors and executive officers. These agreements require us to indemnify these individuals to the fullest extent permitted under Delaware law against liabilities that may arise by reason of their service to us and to advance expenses incurred as a result of any proceeding against them as to which they could be indemnified. We also intend to enter into indemnification agreements with our future directors and executive officers.

Policies and Procedures With Respect to Related Party Transactions

We maintain a Related Party Transactions Policy (the “Policy”), which sets forth the manner in which we consider, evaluate and where appropriate conduct transactions with related parties. We recognize that

related party transactions can involve potential or actual conflicts of interest and pose the risk that they may be, or be perceived to have been, based on considerations other than our best interests. Accordingly, as a general matter, we exercise caution with regard to such transactions and approach them with particular care.

A “related party transaction” means a transaction, arrangement or relationship (or any series of similar transactions, arrangements or relationships) in which we were, are or will be a participant and the amount involved will or may be expected to exceed $120,000, and in which any related party had, has or will have a direct or indirect material interest (including any transactions requiring disclosure under Item 404 ofRegulation S-K promulgated under the Exchange Act). For purposes of the Policy, a transaction in which any of our subsidiaries or any other company controlled by us participates is considered a transaction in which we participate. A “related party” is any of our directors or executive officers, any holder of more than 5% of our common stock or any immediate family member of any of these persons.

We review allany relationships and transactions in which we and a related party are participants to determine whether such persons have a direct or indirect material interest. To identify potential related party transactions, we request certain information from our directors and executive officers. We then review the information provided for any related party transactions. The Audit Committee reviews and determines whether to approve any related party transaction subject to the Policy.

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AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT

The Audit Committee has reviewed and discussed with Burlington’s management and Deloitte & Touche LLP the audited consolidated financial statements of Burlington contained in Burlington’s Annual Report onForm 10-K for the 2016 fiscal year. The Audit Committee has also discussed with Deloitte & Touche LLP the matters required to be discussed pursuant to Public Company Accounting Oversight Board Auditing Standard No. 1301, “Communications with Audit Committees.”

The Audit Committee has received and reviewed the written disclosures and the letter from Deloitte & Touche LLP required by applicable requirements of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board regarding the independent accountant’s communication with the Audit Committee concerning independence and has discussed with Deloitte & Touche LLP its independence from Burlington.

Based on the review and discussions referred to above, the Audit Committee recommended to the Board of Directors that the audited consolidated financial statements be included in Burlington Stores, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form10-K for its 2016 fiscal year for filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Submitted by the Audit Committee

Paul J. Sullivan,Chairman

William McNamara

Tricia Patrick

The preceding Audit Committee Report does not constitute soliciting material and shall not be deemed to be filed, incorporated by reference into or part of any filing made by us (including any future filings) under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act, notwithstanding any general statement contained in any such filing incorporating this report by reference, except to the extent we incorporate such report by specific reference.

STOCKHOLDER PROPOSALS FOR 2018 ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERSStockholder Proposals for 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders

Stockholders may submit proposals for inclusion in our proxy materials in accordance with Rule14a-8 promulgated under the Exchange Act. For such proposals to be included in our proxy materials relating to our 20182021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, all applicable requirements of Rule14a-8 must be satisfied and such proposals must be received by us no later than December 1, 2017.4, 2020. We strongly encourage any stockholder interested in submitting a proposal to contact our General Counsel in advance of this deadline to discuss the proposal. Stockholders may want to consult knowledgeable counsel with regard to the detailed requirements of applicable securities laws. Submitting a proposal does not guarantee that we will include it in our proxy statement.

In accordance with our bylaws,Amended Bylaws, for a proposal of a stockholder, including nominations for directors, to be properly brought before our 20182021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, other than a stockholder proposal intended to be included in our proxy statement and submitted pursuant to Rule14a-8 promulgated under the Exchange Act as discussed above, a stockholder’s notice must be delivered to or

mailed and received at our principal executive offices, together with all supporting documentation required by our bylaws,Amended Bylaws, (a) not later than the close of business on February 19, 2021, being the ninetieth (90th)90th day prior to the first anniversary of our 2020 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, nor earlier than the close of business on January 20, 2021, being the one hundred twentieth (120th)120th day prior to the first anniversary of our 20172020 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, or (b) in the event that our 20182021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders is held more than thirty (30)30 days before or more than seventy (70)70 days after the first anniversary of our 20172020 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, notice must be so delivered not earlier than the close of business on the one hundred twentieth (120th)120th day prior to the 20182021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and not later than the close of business on the later of the ninetieth (90th)90th day prior to such annual meeting or the tenth (10th) day following the day on which public announcement of the date of such meeting is first made by the Company.

Stockholder proposals should be delivered to Burlington Stores, Inc., Attention: Secretary, 2006 Route 130 North, Burlington, New Jersey 08016.

STOCKHOLDERS SHARING THE SAME ADDRESSStockholders Sharing the Same Address

The SEC has adopted rules that permit companies and intermediaries (such as brokers) to implement a delivery procedure called “householding.” Under this procedure, multiple stockholders who reside at the same address may receive a single set of proxy materials unless the affected stockholder has provided contrary instructions. This procedure reduces printing costs and postage fees.

A number of brokers with account holders who beneficially own our common stock may be “householding” our proxy materials. Once you have received notice from your broker that it will be “householding” communications to your address, “householding” will continue until you are notified otherwise or until you revoke your consent.

Upon request, Burlington will promptly deliver a separate copy of our proxy materials to any beneficial owner at a shared address to which a single copy of any of those materials was delivered. To receive a separate copy, you may write or call Burlington Investor Relations at Burlington Stores, Inc., 2006 Route 130 North, Burlington, New Jersey 08016, Attention: Investor Relations, telephone855-973-8445.

Any stockholders who share the same address and currently receive multiple copies of our proxy materials, who wish to receive only one copy in the future, can contact our transfer agent, American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC (if a registered holder), or their bank, broker or other nominee (if a beneficial holder), to request information about householding.

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FORMForm10-K

We will mail without charge, upon written or oral request, a copy of Burlington’s Annual Report on Formour Fiscal 201910-K, for the fiscal year ended January 28, 2017, including the consolidated financial statements, schedules and list of exhibits, and any particular exhibit specifically requested. Requests should be sent to: Burlington Investor Relations at Burlington Stores, Inc., 2006 Route 130 North, Burlington, New Jersey 08016, Attention: Investor Relations, telephone855-973-8445. The Annual Report on FormFiscal 201910-K is also available onin the Investor Relations section of our corporate website, www.burlingtonstores.com,which can be accessed at www.burlingtoninvestors.com, under “Investor Relations—“Financials—SEC Filings.Filings” or “Financials—Annual Reports & Proxies.

OTHER MATTERSOther Matters

The Board of Directors does not know of any other matters to be presented for stockholder action at the Annual Meeting. However, if other matters do properly come before the Annual Meeting or any adjournments or postponements thereof, the Board of Directors intends that the persons named in the proxies will vote upon such matter in accordance with their best judgment.

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

 

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Janet Dhillon, ExecutiveKaren Leu, Senior Vice President, General

General Counsel and Corporate Secretary

Dated: March 31, 2017

Appendix A

BURLINGTON STORES, INC.April 3, 2020

 

2013 OMNIBUS INCENTIVE PLAN

(as amended and restated May 17, 2017)

ARTICLE I

PURPOSE

The purpose of thisBURLINGTON STORES, INC. 2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan is to enhance the profitability and value of the Company for the benefit of its stockholders by enabling the Company to offer Eligible Individuals cash and stock-based incentives in order to attract, retain and reward such individuals and strengthen the mutuality of interests between such individuals and the Company’s stockholders. The Plan is effective as of the date set forth in Article XV.

ARTICLE II

DEFINITIONS

For purposes of the Plan, the following terms shall have the following meanings:

2.1 “Affiliate means each of the following: (a) any Subsidiary; (b) any Parent; (c) any corporation, trade or business (including, without limitation, a partnership or limited liability company) which is directly or indirectly controlled 50% or more (whether by ownership of stock, assets or an equivalent ownership interest or voting interest) by the Company or one of its Affiliates; (d) any trade or business (including, without limitation, a partnership or limited liability company) which directly or indirectly controls 50% or more (whether by ownership of stock, assets or an equivalent ownership interest or voting interest) of the Company; and (e) any other entity in which the Company or any of its Affiliates has a material equity interest and which is designated as an “Affiliate” by resolution of the Committee; provided that, unless otherwise determined by the Committee, the Common Stock subject to any Award constitutes “service recipient stock” for purposes of Section 409A of the Code or otherwise does not subject the Award to Section 409A of the Code.

2.2 “Award means any award under the Plan of any Stock Option, Stock Appreciation Right, Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Unit, Performance Award, Other Stock-Based Award or Other Cash-Based Award. All Awards shall be granted by, confirmed by, and subject to the terms of, a written agreement executed by the Company and the Participant.

2.3 “Award Agreement means the written or electronic agreement setting forth the terms and conditions applicable to an Award.

2.4 “Board means the Board of Directors of the Company.

2.5 “Cause means, unless otherwise determined by the Committee in the applicable Award Agreement, with respect to a Participant’s Termination of Employment or Termination of Consultancy, the following: (a) in the case where there is no employment agreement, consulting agreement, change in control agreement or similar agreement in effect between the Company or an Affiliate and the Participant at the time of the grant of the Award (or where there is such an agreement but it does not define “cause” (or words of like import)), termination due to a Participant’s insubordination, dishonesty, fraud, incompetence, moral turpitude, willful misconduct, refusal to

perform the Participant’s duties or responsibilities for any reason other than illness or incapacity or materially unsatisfactory performance of the Participant’s duties for the Company or an Affiliate, as determined by the Committee in its good faith discretion; or (b) in the case where there is an employment agreement, consulting agreement, change in control agreement or similar agreement in effect between the Company or an Affiliate and the Participant at the time of the grant of the Award that defines “cause” (or words of like import), “cause” as defined under such agreement; provided, however, that with regard to any agreement under which the definition of “cause” only applies on occurrence of a change in control, such definition of “cause” shall not apply until a change in control actually takes place and then only with regard to a termination thereafter. With respect to a Participant’s Termination of Directorship, “cause” means an act or failure to act that constitutes cause for removal of a director under applicable Delaware law.

2.6 “Change in Control has the meaning set forth in Section 11.2.

2.7 “Code means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Any reference to any section of the Code shall also be a reference to any successor provision and any treasury regulation promulgated thereunder.

2.8 “Committee means any committee of the Board duly authorized by the Board to administer the Plan. If no committee is duly authorized by the Board to administer the Plan, the term “Committee” shall be deemed to refer to the Board for all purposes under the Plan.

2.9 “Common Stock means the common stock, $0.0001 par value per share, of the Company.

2.10 “Company means Burlington Stores, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and its successors by operation of law.

2.11 “Consultant means any natural person who is an advisor or consultant to the Company or its Affiliates.

2.12 “Disability means Participant’s inability to perform the essential duties, responsibilities and functions of Participant’s position with the Company and its Subsidiaries for a continuous period of 180 days as a result of any mental or physical disability or incapacity, as determined under the definition of disability in the Company’s long-term disability plan so as to qualify Participant for benefits under the terms of that plan or as determined by an independent physician to the extent no such plan is then in effect. Participant shall cooperate in all respects with the Company if a question arises as to whether Participant has become disabled (including, without limitation, submitting to an examination by a medical doctor or other health care specialist selected by the Company and authorizing such medical doctor or such other health care specialist to discuss Participant’s condition with the Company). Notwithstanding the foregoing, for Awards that are subject to Section 409A of the Code, Disability shall mean that a Participant is disabled under Section 409A(a)(2)(C)(i) or (ii) of the Code.

2.13 “Effective Date means the effective date of the Plan as defined in Article XV.

2.14 “Eligible Employees means each employee of the Company or an Affiliate.

2.15 “Eligible Individual means an Eligible Employee,Non-Employee Director or Consultant who is designated by the Committee in its discretion as eligible to receive Awards subject to the conditions set forth herein.

2.16 “Exchange Act means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Reference to a specific section of the Exchange Act or regulation thereunder shall include such section or regulation, any valid regulation or interpretation promulgated under such section, and any comparable provision of any future legislation or regulation amending, supplementing or superseding such section or regulation.

2.17 “Fair Market Value means, for purposes of the Plan, unless otherwise required by any applicable provision of the Code or any regulations issued thereunder, as of any date and except as provided below, the closing price reported for the Common Stock on the applicable date: (a) as reported on the principal national securities exchange in the United States on which it is then traded or (b) if the Common Stock is not traded, listed or otherwise reported or quoted, the Committee shall determine in good faith the Fair Market Value in whatever manner it considers appropriate taking into account the requirements of Section 409A of the Code. For purposes of the grant of any Award, the applicable date shall be the trading day on which the Award is granted. For purposes of the exercise of any Award, the applicable date shall be the date a notice of exercise is received by the Committee or, if not a day on which the applicable market is open, the next day that it is open.

2.18 “Family Member means “family member” as defined in Section A.1.(a)(5) of the general instructions of FormS-8.

2.19 “Incentive Stock Option means any Stock Option awarded to an Eligible Employee of the Company, its Subsidiaries and its Parents (if any) under the Plan intended to be and designated as an “Incentive Stock Option” within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code.

2.20 “Limited Stock Appreciation Right has the meaning set forth in Section 7.5.

2.21 “Minimum Vesting Requirement has the meaning set forth in Section 3.2(d).

2.22 “Non-Employee Director means a director or a member of the Board of the Company or any Affiliate who is not an active employee of the Company or any Affiliate.

2.23 “Non-Qualified Stock Option means any Stock Option awarded under the Plan that is not an Incentive Stock Option.

2.24 “Non-Tandem Stock Appreciation Right shall mean the right to receive an amount in cash and/or stock equal to the difference between (x) the Fair Market Value of a share of Common Stock on the date such right is exercised, and (y) the aggregate exercise price of such right, otherwise than on surrender of a Stock Option.

2.25 “Other Cash-Based Award means an Award granted pursuant to Section 10.3 of the Plan and payable in cash at such time or times and subject to such terms and conditions as determined by the Committee in its sole discretion.

2.26 “Other Extraordinary Event has the meaning set forth in Section 4.2(b).

2.27 “Other Stock-Based Award means an Award under Article X of the Plan that is valued in whole or in part by reference to, or is payable in or otherwise based on, Common Stock, including, without limitation, an Award valued by reference to an Affiliate.

2.28 “Parent means any parent corporation of the Company within the meaning of Section 424(e) of the Code.

2.29 “Participant means an Eligible Individual to whom an Award has been granted pursuant to the Plan.

2.30 “Performance Award means an Award granted to a Participant pursuant to Article IX hereof contingent upon achieving certain Performance Goals.

2.31 “Performance Goals means goals established by the Committee as contingencies for Awards to vest and/or become exercisable or distributable based on one or more of the performance goals set forth inExhibit Ahereto.

2.32 “Performance Period means the designated period during which the Performance Goals must be satisfied with respect to the Award to which the Performance Goals relate.

2.33 “Plan means this Burlington Stores, Inc. 2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan, as amended from time to time.

2.34 “Proceeding has the meaning set forth in Section 14.8.

2.35 “Reference Stock Option has the meaning set forth in Section 7.1.

2.36 “Restricted Stock means an Award of shares of Common Stock under the Plan that is subject to restrictions under Article VIII.

2.37 “Restricted Stock Unit means an Award of hypothetical units of Common Stock under the Plan that is subject to restrictions under Article VIII, whereby the Participant has the right to receive a payment in cash or in shares based on the Fair Market Value of the number of hypothetical units of Common Stock described in the Award.

2.38 “Rule16b-3 means Rule16b-3 under Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act as then in effect or any successor provision.

2.39 “Section 4.2 Event has the meaning set forth in Section 4.2(b).

2.40 “Section 162(m) of the Code means Section 162(m) of the Code and any applicable treasury regulations thereunder.

2.41 “Section 409A of the Code means the nonqualified deferred compensation rules under Section 409A of the Code and any applicable treasury regulations and other official guidance thereunder.

2.42 “Securities Act means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and all rules and regulations promulgated thereunder. Reference to a specific section of the Securities Act or regulation thereunder shall include such section or regulation, any valid regulation or interpretation promulgated under such section, and any comparable provision of any future legislation or regulation amending, supplementing or superseding such section or regulation.

2.43 “Stock Appreciation Right shall mean the right pursuant to an Award granted under Article VII.

2.44 “Stock Option orOption means any option to purchase shares of Common Stock granted to Eligible Individuals pursuant to Article VI.

2.45 “Subsidiary means any subsidiary corporation of the Company within the meaning of Section 424(f) of the Code.

2.46 “Tandem Stock Appreciation Right shall mean the right to surrender to the Company all (or a portion) of a Stock Option in exchange for an amount in cash and/or stock equal to the difference between (i) the Fair Market Value on the date such Stock Option (or such portion thereof) is surrendered, of the Common Stock covered by such Stock Option (or such portion thereof), and (ii) the aggregate exercise price of such Stock Option (or such portion thereof).

2.47 “Ten Percent Stockholder means a person owning stock possessing more than ten percent (10%) of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock of the Company, its Subsidiaries or its Parent.

2.48 “Termination means a Termination of Consultancy, Termination of Directorship or Termination of Employment, as applicable.

2.49 “Termination of Consultancy means: (a) that the Consultant is no longer acting as a consultant to the Company or an Affiliate; or (b) when an entity which is retaining a Participant as a Consultant ceases to be an Affiliate unless the Participant otherwise is, or thereupon becomes, a Consultant to the Company or another Affiliate at the time the entity ceases to be an Affiliate. In the event that a Consultant becomes an Eligible Employee or aNon-Employee Director upon the termination of such Consultant’s consultancy, unless otherwise determined by the Committee, in its sole discretion, no Termination of Consultancy shall be deemed to occur until such time as such Consultant is no longer a Consultant, an Eligible Employee or aNon-Employee Director. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee may otherwise define Termination of Consultancy in the Award Agreement or, if no rights of a Participant are reduced, may otherwise define Termination of Consultancy thereafter, provided that any such change to the definition of the term “Termination of Consultancy” does not subject the applicable Award to Section 409A of the Code.

2.50 “Termination of Directorship means that theNon-Employee Director has ceased to be a director of the Company; except that if aNon-Employee Director becomes an Eligible Employee or a Consultant upon the termination of suchNon-Employee Director’s directorship, suchNon-Employee Director’s ceasing to be a director of the Company shall not be treated as a Termination of Directorship unless and until the Participant has a Termination of Employment or Termination of Consultancy, as the case may be.

2.51 “Termination of Employment means: (a) a termination of employment (for reasons other than a military or personal leave of absence granted by the Company) of a Participant from the Company and its Affiliates; or (b) when an entity which is employing a Participant ceases to be an Affiliate, unless the Participant otherwise is, or thereupon becomes, employed by the Company or another Affiliate at the time the entity ceases to be an Affiliate. In the event that an Eligible Employee becomes a Consultant or aNon-Employee Director upon the termination of such Eligible Employee’s employment, unless otherwise determined by the Committee, in its sole discretion, no Termination of Employment shall be deemed to occur until such time as such Eligible Employee is no longer an Eligible Employee, a Consultant or aNon-Employee Director. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee may otherwise define Termination of Employment in the Award Agreement or, if no rights of a Participant are reduced, may otherwise define Termination of Employment thereafter, provided that any such change to the definition of the term “Termination of Employment” does not subject the applicable Award to Section 409A of the Code.

2.52 “Transfer means: (a) when used as a noun, any direct or indirect transfer, sale, assignment, pledge, hypothecation, encumbrance or other disposition (including the issuance of equity in any entity), whether for value or no value and whether voluntary or involuntary (including by operation of law), and (b) when used as a verb, to directly or indirectly transfer, sell, assign, pledge, encumber, charge, hypothecate or otherwise dispose of (including the issuance of equity in any entity) whether for value or for no value and whether voluntarily or involuntarily (including by operation of law). “Transferred” and “Transferable” shall have a correlative meaning.

ARTICLE III

ADMINISTRATION

3.1The Committee. The Plan shall be administered and interpreted by the Committee. To the extent required by applicable law, rule or regulation, it is intended that each member of the Committee may from time to time qualify as (a) a“non-employee director” under Rule16b-3, (b) an “outside director” under Section 162(m) of the Code and (c) an “independent director” under the rules of any national securities exchange or national securities association, as applicable. If it is later determined that one or more members of the Committee do not so qualify, actions taken by the Committee prior to such determination shall be valid despite such failure to qualify.

3.2Grants of Awards. The Committee shall have full authority to grant, pursuant to the terms of the Plan, to Eligible Individuals: (i) Stock Options (provided that an Incentive Stock Option may only be granted to an Eligible Employee), (ii) Stock Appreciation Rights, (iii) Restricted Stock, (iv) Restricted Stock Units, (v) Performance Awards; (vi) Other Stock-Based Awards; and (vii) Other Cash-Based Awards. In particular, the Committee shall have the authority:

(a) to select the Eligible Individuals to whom Awards may from time to time be granted hereunder;

(b) to determine whether and to what extent Awards, or any combination thereof, are to be granted hereunder to one or more Eligible Individuals;

(c) to determine the number of shares of Common Stock to be covered by each Award granted hereunder;

(d) to determine the terms and conditions, not inconsistent with the terms of the Plan, of any Award granted hereunder (including, but not limited to, the exercise or purchase price (if any), any restriction or limitation, any vesting schedule or acceleration thereof, or any forfeiture restrictions or waiver thereof, regarding any Award and the shares of Common Stock relating thereto, based on such factors, if any, as the Committee shall determine, in its sole discretion); provided, however, that the vesting schedule of an Award granted hereunder (other than Awards involving an aggregate number of shares of Common Stock equal to or less than 5% of the shares available for Awards under this Plan) shall provide that no portion of such Award may become vested prior to the first anniversary of the date of grant of such Award (the “Minimum Vesting Requirement”);

(e) to determine the amount of cash to be covered by each Award granted hereunder;

(f) to determine whether, to what extent and under what circumstances grants of Awards under the Plan are to operate on a tandem basis and/or in conjunction with or apart from other awards made by the Company outside of the Plan;

(g) to determine whether and under what circumstances a Stock Option may be settled in cash and/or Common Stock under Section 6.2(d);

(h) to determine whether a Stock Option is an Incentive Stock Option orNon-Qualified Stock Option;

(i) to determine whether to require a Participant, as a condition of the granting of any Award, to not sell or otherwise dispose of shares acquired pursuant to the exercise of an Award for a period of time as determined by the Committee, in its sole discretion, following the date of the acquisition or exercise of such Award; and

(j) to modify, extend or renew an Award, subject to Article XII and Section 6.2(l), provided, however, that such action does not subject the Award to Section 409A of the Code without the consent of the Participant.

3.3Guidelines. Subject to Article XII hereof, the Committee shall have the authority to adopt, alter and repeal such administrative rules, guidelines and practices governing the Plan and perform all acts, including the delegation of its responsibilities (to the extent permitted by applicable law and applicable stock exchange rules), as it shall, from time to time, deem advisable; to construe and interpret the terms and provisions of the Plan and any Award issued under the Plan (and any agreements relating thereto); and to otherwise supervise the administration of the Plan. The Committee may correct any defect, supply any omission or reconcile any inconsistency in the Plan or in any agreement relating thereto in the manner and to the extent it shall deem necessary to effectuate the purpose and intent of the Plan. The Committee may adopt special guidelines and provisions for persons who are residing in or employed in, or subject to, the taxes of, any domestic or foreign jurisdictions to comply with applicable tax and securities laws of such domestic or foreign jurisdictions. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no action of the Committee under this Section 3.3 shall impair the rights of any

Participant, or disqualify any Incentive Stock Option under Section 422 of the Code, without the Participant’s consent. No term of the Plan relating to Incentive Stock Options shall be interpreted, amended or altered, nor shall any discretion or authority granted under the Plan be so exercised, so as to disqualify the Plan under Section 422 of the Code. To the extent applicable, the Plan is intended to comply with the applicable requirements of Rule16b-3, and with respect to Awards intended to be “performance-based,” the applicable provisions of Section 162(m) of the Code, and the Plan shall be limited, construed and interpreted in a manner so as to comply therewith.

3.4Decisions Final. Any decision, interpretation or other action made or taken in good faith by or at the direction of the Company, the Board or the Committee (or any of its members) arising out of or in connection with the Plan shall be within the absolute discretion of all and each of them, as the case may be, and shall be final, binding and conclusive on the Company and all employees and Participants and their respective heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns.

3.5Procedures. If the Committee is appointed, the Board shall designate one of the members of the Committee as chair and the Committee shall hold meetings, subject to theBy-Laws of the Company, at such times and places as it shall deem advisable, including, without limitation, by telephone conference or by written consent to the extent permitted by applicable law. A majority of the Committee members shall constitute a quorum. All determinations of the Committee shall be made by a majority of its members. Any decision or determination reduced to writing and signed by all of the Committee members in accordance with theBy-Laws of the Company, shall be fully effective as if it had been made by a vote at a meeting duly called and held. The Committee shall keep minutes of its meetings and shall make such rules and regulations for the conduct of its business as it shall deem advisable.

3.6Delegation of Authority/Liability.

(a) The Committee may designate employees of the Company and professional advisors to assist the Committee in the administration of the Plan and (to the extent permitted by applicable law and applicable stock exchange rules) may delegate authority to one or more officers of the Company to grant Awards and/or execute agreements or other documents on behalf of the Committee.

(b) The Committee may employ such legal counsel, consultants and agents as it may deem desirable for the administration of the Plan and may rely upon any opinion received from any such counsel or consultant and any computation received from any such consultant or agent. Expenses incurred by the Committee or the Board in the engagement of any such counsel, consultant or agent shall be paid by the Company. The Committee, its members and any person designated pursuant tosub-section (a) above shall not be liable for any action or determination made in good faith with respect to the Plan. To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, no officer of the Company or member or former member of the Committee or of the Board shall be liable for any action or determination made in good faith with respect to the Plan or any Award granted under it.

3.7Indemnification. To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law and the Certificate of Incorporation andBy-Laws of the Company and to the extent not covered by insurance directly insuring such person, each officer or employee of the Company or any Affiliate and member or former member of the Committee or the Board shall be indemnified and held harmless by the Company against any cost or expense (including reasonable fees of counsel reasonably acceptable to the Committee) or liability (including any sum paid in settlement of a claim with the approval of the Committee), and advanced amounts necessary to pay the foregoing at the earliest time and to the fullest extent permitted, arising out of any act or omission to act in connection with the administration of the Plan, except to the extent arising out of such officer’s, employee’s, member’s or former member’s own fraud or bad faith. Such indemnification shall be in addition to any right of indemnification the employees, officers, directors or members or former officers, directors or members may have under applicable law or under the Certificate of Incorporation orBy-Laws of the Company or any Affiliate. Notwithstanding anything else herein, this indemnification will not apply to the actions or determinations made by an individual with regard to Awards granted to such individual under the Plan.

ARTICLE IV

SHARE LIMITATION

4.1Shares. (a) The aggregate number of shares of Common Stock that may be issued or used for reference purposes or with respect to which Awards may be granted under the Plan shall not exceed 6.0 million shares (subject to any increase or decrease pursuant to Section 4.2), which may be either authorized and unissued Common Stock or Common Stock held in or acquired for the treasury of the Company or both. The maximum number of shares of Common Stock with respect to which Incentive Stock Options may be granted under the Plan shall be 4.0 million shares. Any shares of Common Stock granted in connection with Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights shall be counted against the limits under the Plan as one (1) share for every one (1) Stock Option or Stock Appreciation Right awarded. Any shares of Common Stock granted in connection with Awards other than Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights shall be counted against the limit under the Plan as two (2) shares of Common Stock for every one (1) share of Common Stock granted in connection with such Award. If any Award granted under the Plan expires, terminates, or is canceled for any reason without having been exercised in full, or if any shares of Restricted Stock, Performance Awards, or Other Stock-Based Awards denominated in shares of Common Stock awarded under the Plan are forfeited for any reason, the portion of such Award that expires, terminates or is cancelled or forfeited shall again be available for the purpose of Awards under the Plan; provided that, any shares of Common Stock that again become available for future grants pursuant to this Section 4.1 shall be added back as one (1) share if such shares were subject to Options or Stock Appreciation Rights and as two (2) shares if such shares were subject to other Awards.

With respect to Stock Appreciation Rights settled in Common Stock, the number of shares of Common Stock equal to the number of Stock Appreciation Rights exercised by the Participant shall count against the aggregate and individual share limitations set forth under Sections 4.1(a) and 4.1(b), respectively. If a Tandem Stock Appreciation Right or a Limited Stock Appreciation Right is granted in tandem with a Stock Option, such grant shall only apply once against the maximum number of shares of Common Stock which may be issued under the Plan. Any Award under the Plan settled in cash shall not be counted against the foregoing maximum share limitations. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, any shares of Common Stock subject to an Award under the Plan shall not again be made available for issuance or delivery under the Plan if such shares are (a) tendered to the Company to pay the exercise price of a share of Common Stock subject to a Stock Option, (b) used to satisfy a tax withholding obligation under Section 14.4, or (c) repurchased by the Company using the proceeds from the exercise of Stock Options.

(b)Individual Limitations Applicable to Participants Other ThanNon-Employee Directors. To the extent required by Section 162(m) of the Code for Awards under the Plan to qualify as “performance-based compensation,” the following individual Participant limitations shall apply:

(i) The maximum number of shares of Common Stock subject to Performance Awards, Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights which may be granted under the Plan during any fiscal year of the Company to any Participant shall be 4.0 million shares.

(ii) There are no annual individual share limitations applicable to Participants (other thanNon-Employee Directors) on Awards which are not Performance Awards, Stock Options or Stock Appreciation Rights.

(iii) The maximum value of a cash payment made under a Performance Award which may be granted under the Plan with respect to any fiscal year of the Company to any Participant shall be $10.0 million.

(c)Individual Limitations Applicable toNon-Employee Directors. A Participant who is aNon-Employee Director may not be granted in any fiscal year of the Company Awards which, when combined with any cash amounts paid outside the Plan to suchNon-Employee Director in such fiscal year, in the aggregate relate to more than $450,000 in aggregate value at the applicable grant date(s), based on the accounting value as

recognized by the Company, provided, however, that the aggregate value for anyNon-Employee Director serving as Chairman of the Board of Directors may be up to 200% of such limitation.

4.2Changes.

(a) The existence of the Plan and the Awards granted hereunder shall not affect in any way the right or power of the Board or the stockholders of the Company to make or authorize (i) any adjustment, recapitalization, reorganization or other change in the Company’s capital structure or its business, (ii) any merger or consolidation of the Company or any Affiliate, (iii) any issuance of bonds, debentures, preferred or prior preference stock ahead of or affecting the Common Stock, (iv) the dissolution or liquidation of the Company or any Affiliate, (v) any sale or transfer of all or part of the assets or business of the Company or any Affiliate or (vi) any other corporate act or proceeding.

(b) Subject to the provisions of Section 11.1, if there shall occur any such change in the capital structure of the Company by reason of any stock split, reverse stock split, stock dividend, subdivision, combination or reclassification of shares that may be issued under the Plan, any recapitalization, any merger, any consolidation, any spin off, any reorganization or any partial or complete liquidation, or any other corporate transaction or event having an effect similar to any of the foregoing (a “Section 4.2 Event”), then (i) the aggregate number and/or kind of shares that thereafter may be issued under the Plan, (ii) the number and/or kind of shares or other property (including cash) to be issued upon exercise of an outstanding Award granted under the Plan, and/or (iii) the purchase price thereof, shall be appropriately adjusted. In addition, subject to Section 11.1, if there shall occur any change in the capital structure or the business of the Company that is not a Section 4.2 Event (an “Other Extraordinary Event”), including by reason of any extraordinary dividend (whether cash or stock), any conversion, any adjustment, any issuance of any class of securities convertible or exercisable into, or exercisable for, any class of stock, or any sale or transfer of all or substantially all of the Company’s assets or business, then the Committee, in its sole discretion, may adjust any Award and make such other adjustments to the Plan. Any adjustment pursuant to this Section 4.2 shall be consistent with the applicable Section 4.2 Event or the applicable Other Extraordinary Event, as the case may be, and in such manner as the Committee may, in its sole discretion, deem appropriate and equitable to prevent substantial dilution or enlargement of the rights granted to, or available for, Participants under the Plan. Any such adjustment determined by the Committee shall be final, binding and conclusive on the Company and all Participants and their respective heirs, executors, administrators, successors and permitted assigns. Except as expressly provided in this Section 4.2 or in the applicable Award Agreement, a Participant shall have no rights by reason of any Section 4.2 Event or any Other Extraordinary Event.

(c) Fractional shares of Common Stock resulting from any adjustment in Awards pursuant to Section 4.2(a) or 4.2(b) shall be aggregated until, and eliminated at, the time of exercise by rounding-down for fractions less thanone-half androunding-up for fractions equal to or greater thanone-half. No cash settlements shall be made with respect to fractional shares eliminated by rounding. Notice of any adjustment shall be given by the Committee to each Participant whose Award has been adjusted and such adjustment (whether or not such notice is given) shall be effective and binding for all purposes of the Plan.

ARTICLE V

ELIGIBILITY

5.1General Eligibility. All current and prospective Eligible Individuals are eligible to be granted Awards. Eligibility for the grant of Awards and actual participation in the Plan shall be determined by the Committee in its sole discretion.

5.2Incentive Stock Options. Notwithstanding the foregoing, only Eligible Employees of the Company, its Subsidiaries and its Parent (if any) are eligible to be granted Incentive Stock Options under the Plan. Eligibility

for the grant of an Incentive Stock Option and actual participation in the Plan shall be determined by the Committee in its sole discretion.

5.3General Requirement. The vesting and exercise of Awards granted to a prospective Eligible Individual are conditioned upon such individual actually becoming an Eligible Employee, Consultant orNon-Employee Director, respectively.

ARTICLE VI

STOCK OPTIONS

6.1Options. Stock Options may be granted alone or in addition to other Awards granted under the Plan. Each Stock Option granted under the Plan shall be of one of two types: (a) an Incentive Stock Option or (b) aNon-Qualified Stock Option. To the extent that any Stock Option does not qualify as an Incentive Stock Option (whether because of its provisions or the time or manner of its exercise or otherwise), such Stock Option or the portion thereof which does not so qualify shall constitute a separateNon-Qualified Stock Option.

6.2Terms of Options. Options granted under the Plan shall be subject to the following terms and conditions and shall be in such form and contain such additional terms and conditions, not inconsistent with the terms of the Plan (including Section 3.2(d) thereof), as the Committee shall deem desirable:

(a) Exercise Price. The exercise price per share of Common Stock subject to a Stock Option shall be determined by the Committee at the time of grant, provided that the per share exercise price of a Stock Option shall not be less than 100% (or, in the case of an Incentive Stock Option granted to a Ten Percent Stockholder, 110%) of the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock at the time of grant.

(b)Stock Option Term. The term of each Stock Option shall be fixed by the Committee, provided that no Stock Option shall be exercisable more than 10 years after the date the Option is granted; and provided further that the term of an Incentive Stock Option granted to a Ten Percent Stockholder shall not exceed five years.

(c)Exercisability. Unless otherwise provided by the Committee in accordance with the provisions of this Section 6.2 and subject to the Minimum Vesting Requirement, Stock Options granted under the Plan shall be exercisable at such time or times and subject to such terms and conditions as shall be determined by the Committee at the time of grant. If the Committee provides, in its discretion, that any Stock Option is exercisable subject to certain limitations (including, without limitation, that such Stock Option is exercisable only in installments or within certain time periods), the Committee may waive such limitations on the exercisability at any time after the time of grant in whole or in part (including, without limitation, waiver of the installment exercise provisions or acceleration of the time at which such Stock Option may be exercised), based on such factors, if any, as the Committee shall determine, in its sole discretion.

(d)Method of Exercise. Subject to whatever installment exercise and waiting period provisions apply under Section 6.2(c), to the extent vested, Stock Options may be exercised in whole or in part at any time during the Option term, by giving written notice of exercise to the Company specifying the number of shares of Common Stock to be purchased. Such notice shall be accompanied by payment in full of the purchase price as follows: (i) in cash or by check, bank draft or money order payable to the order of the Company; (ii) solely to the extent permitted by applicable law, if the Common Stock is traded on a national securities exchange, and the Committee authorizes, through a procedure whereby the Participant delivers irrevocable instructions to a broker reasonably acceptable to the Committee to deliver promptly to the Company an amount equal to the purchase price; or (iii) on such other terms and conditions as may be acceptable to the Committee (including, without limitation, having the Company withhold shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of the Stock Option, or by payment in full or in part in the form of Common Stock owned by the Participant, based on the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock on the payment date as determined by the Committee). No shares of Common Stock shall be issued until payment therefor, as provided herein, has been made or provided for.

(e)Non-Transferability of Options. No Stock Option shall be Transferable by the Participant other than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution, and all Stock Options shall be exercisable, during the Participant’s lifetime, only by the Participant. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee may determine, in its sole discretion, at the time of grant or thereafter that aNon-Qualified Stock Option that is otherwise not Transferable pursuant to this Section is Transferable to a Family Member in whole or in part and in such circumstances, and under such conditions, as specified by the Committee. ANon-Qualified Stock Option that is Transferred to a Family Member pursuant to the preceding sentence (i) may not be subsequently Transferred other than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution and (ii) remains subject to the terms of the Plan and the applicable Award Agreement. Any shares of Common Stock acquired upon the exercise of aNon-Qualified Stock Option by a permissible transferee of aNon-Qualified Stock Option or a permissible transferee pursuant to a Transfer after the exercise of theNon-Qualified Stock Option shall be subject to the terms of the Plan and the applicable Award Agreement.

(f)Termination by Death or Disability. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee at the time of grant, or if no rights of the Participant are reduced, thereafter, if a Participant’s Termination is by reason of death or Disability, all Stock Options that are held by such Participant that are vested and exercisable at the time of the Participant’s Termination may be exercised by the Participant (or in the case of the Participant’s death, by the legal representative of the Participant’s estate) at any time within a period of one (1) year from the date of such Termination, but in no event beyond the expiration of the stated term of such Stock Options; provided, however, that, in the event of a Participant’s Termination by reason of Disability, if the Participant dies within such exercise period, all unexercised Stock Options held by such Participant shall thereafter be exercisable, to the extent to which they were exercisable at the time of death, for a period of one (1) year from the date of such death, but in no event beyond the expiration of the stated term of such Stock Options.

(g)Involuntary Termination Without Cause. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee at the time of grant, or if no rights of the Participant are reduced, thereafter, if a Participant’s Termination is by involuntary termination by the Company without Cause, all Stock Options that are held by such Participant that are vested and exercisable at the time of the Participant’s Termination may be exercised by the Participant at any time within a period of ninety (90) days from the date of such Termination, but in no event beyond the expiration of the stated term of such Stock Options.

(h)Voluntary Resignation. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee at the time of grant, or if no rights of the Participant are reduced, thereafter, if a Participant’s Termination is voluntary (other than a voluntary termination described in Section 6.2(i)(y) hereof), all Stock Options that are held by such Participant that are vested and exercisable at the time of the Participant’s Termination may be exercised by the Participant at any time within a period of thirty (30) days from the date of such Termination, but in no event beyond the expiration of the stated term of such Stock Options.

(i)Termination for Cause. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee at the time of grant, or if no rights of the Participant are reduced, thereafter, if a Participant’s Termination (x) is for Cause or (y) is a voluntary Termination (as provided in Section 6.2(h)) after the occurrence of an event that would be grounds for a Termination for Cause, all Stock Options, whether vested or not vested, that are held by such Participant shall thereupon terminate and expire as of the date of such Termination.

(j)Unvested Stock Options. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee at the time of grant, or if no rights of the Participant are reduced, thereafter, Stock Options that are not vested as of the date of a Participant’s Termination for any reason shall terminate and expire as of the date of such Termination.

(k)Incentive Stock Option Limitations. To the extent that the aggregate Fair Market Value (determined as of the time of grant) of the Common Stock with respect to which Incentive Stock Options are exercisable for the first time by an Eligible Employee during any calendar year under the Plan and/or any other stock option plan of the Company, any Subsidiary or any Parent exceeds $100,000, such Options shall be treated asNon-Qualified Stock Options. In addition, if an Eligible Employee does not remain employed by the Company, any Subsidiary

or any Parent at all times from the time an Incentive Stock Option is granted until three months prior to the date of exercise thereof (or such other period as required by applicable law), such Stock Option shall be treated as aNon-Qualified Stock Option. Should any provision of the Plan not be necessary in order for the Stock Options to qualify as Incentive Stock Options, or should any additional provisions be required, the Committee may amend the Plan accordingly, without the necessity of obtaining the approval of the stockholders of the Company.

(l)Form, Modification, Extension and Renewal of Stock Options. Subject to the terms and conditions and within the limitations of the Plan, Stock Options shall be evidenced by such form of agreement or grant as is approved by the Committee, and the Committee may (i) modify, extend or renew outstanding Stock Options granted under the Plan (provided that the rights of a Participant are not reduced without such Participant’s consent and provided further that such action does not subject the Stock Options to Section 409A of the Code without the consent of the Participant), and (ii) accept the surrender of outstanding Stock Options (to the extent not theretofore exercised) and authorize the granting of new Stock Options in substitution therefor (to the extent not theretofore exercised).

(m)Restrictions on Modification and Substitution of Stock Options. Notwithstanding the foregoing, an outstanding Stock Option may not be modified to reduce the exercise price thereof nor may a new Stock Option at a lower price be substituted for a surrendered Stock Option (other than adjustments or substitutions in accordance with Section 4.2), unless such action is approved by the stockholders of the Company.

(n)Other Terms and Conditions. The Committee may include a provision in an Award Agreement providing for the automatic exercise of aNon-Qualified Stock Option on a cashless basis on the last day of the term of such Option if the Participant has failed to exercise theNon-Qualified Stock Option as of such date, with respect to which the Fair Market Value of the shares of Common Stock underlying theNon-Qualified Stock Option exceeds the exercise price of suchNon-Qualified Stock Option on the date of expiration of such Option, subject to Section 14.4. Stock Options may contain such other provisions, which shall not be inconsistent with any of the terms of the Plan, as the Committee shall deem appropriate.

ARTICLE VII

STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHTS

7.1Tandem Stock Appreciation Rights. Stock Appreciation Rights may be granted in conjunction with all or part of any Stock Option (a “Reference Stock Option”) granted under the Plan (“Tandem Stock Appreciation Rights”). In the case of aNon-Qualified Stock Option, such rights may be granted either at or after the time of the grant of such Reference Stock Option. In the case of an Incentive Stock Option, such rights may be granted only at the time of the grant of such Reference Stock Option.

7.2Terms and Conditions of Tandem Stock Appreciation Rights. Tandem Stock Appreciation Rights granted hereunder shall be subject to such terms and conditions, not inconsistent with the provisions of the Plan (including Section 3.2(d) thereof), as shall be determined from time to time by the Committee, and the following:

(a) Exercise Price. The exercise price per share of Common Stock subject to a Tandem Stock Appreciation Right shall be determined by the Committee at the time of grant, provided that the per share exercise price of a Tandem Stock Appreciation Right shall not be less than 100% of the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock at the time of grant.

(b)Term. A Tandem Stock Appreciation Right or applicable portion thereof granted with respect to a Reference Stock Option shall terminate and no longer be exercisable upon the termination or exercise of the Reference Stock Option, except that, unless otherwise determined by the Committee, in its sole discretion, at the time of grant, a Tandem Stock Appreciation Right granted with respect to less than the full number of shares covered by the Reference Stock Option shall not be reduced until, and then only to the extent that the exercise or

termination of the Reference Stock Option causes, the number of shares covered by the Tandem Stock Appreciation Right to exceed the number of shares remaining available and unexercised under the Reference Stock Option.

(c)Exercisability. Tandem Stock Appreciation Rights shall be exercisable only at such time or times and to the extent that the Reference Stock Options to which they relate shall be exercisable in accordance with the provisions of Article VI, and shall be subject to the provisions of Section 6.2(c).

(d)Method of Exercise. A Tandem Stock Appreciation Right may be exercised by the Participant by surrendering the applicable portion of the Reference Stock Option. Upon such exercise and surrender, the Participant shall be entitled to receive an amount determined in the manner prescribed in this Section 7.2. Stock Options which have been so surrendered, in whole or in part, shall no longer be exercisable to the extent that the related Tandem Stock Appreciation Rights have been exercised.

(e)Payment. Upon the exercise of a Tandem Stock Appreciation Right, a Participant shall be entitled to receive up to, but no more than, an amount in cash and/or Common Stock (as chosen by the Committee in its sole discretion) equal in value to the excess of the Fair Market Value of one share of Common Stock over the Option exercise price per share specified in the Reference Stock Option agreement multiplied by the number of shares of Common Stock in respect of which the Tandem Stock Appreciation Right shall have been exercised, with the Committee having the right to determine the form of payment.

(f)Deemed Exercise of Reference Stock Option. Upon the exercise of a Tandem Stock Appreciation Right, the Reference Stock Option or part thereof to which such Stock Appreciation Right is related shall be deemed to have been exercised for the purpose of the limitation set forth in Article IV of the Plan on the number of shares of Common Stock to be issued under the Plan.

(g)Non-Transferability. Tandem Stock Appreciation Rights shall be Transferable only when and to the extent that the underlying Stock Option would be Transferable under Section 6.2(e) of the Plan.

7.3Non-Tandem Stock Appreciation Rights.Non-Tandem Stock Appreciation Rights may also be granted without reference to any Stock Options granted under the Plan.

7.4Terms and Conditions ofNon-Tandem Stock Appreciation Rights.Non-Tandem Stock Appreciation Rights granted hereunder shall be subject to such terms and conditions, not inconsistent with the provisions of the Plan (including Section 3.2(d) thereof), as shall be determined from time to time by the Committee, and the following:

(a)Exercise Price. The exercise price per share of Common Stock subject to aNon-Tandem Stock Appreciation Right shall be determined by the Committee at the time of grant, provided that the per share exercise price of aNon-Tandem Stock Appreciation Right shall not be less than 100% of the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock at the time of grant.

(b)Term. The term of eachNon-Tandem Stock Appreciation Right shall be fixed by the Committee, but shall not be greater than 10 years after the date the right is granted.

(c)Exercisability. Unless otherwise provided by the Committee in accordance with the provisions of this Section 7.4 and subject to the Minimum Vesting Requirement,Non-Tandem Stock Appreciation Rights granted under the Plan shall be exercisable at such time or times and subject to such terms and conditions as shall be determined by the Committee at the time of grant. If the Committee provides, in its discretion, that any such right is exercisable subject to certain limitations (including, without limitation, that it is exercisable only in installments or within certain time periods), the Committee may waive such limitations on the exercisability at any time after grant in whole or in part (including, without limitation, waiver of the installment exercise provisions or acceleration of the time at which such right may be exercised), based on such factors, if any, as the Committee shall determine, in its sole discretion.

(d)Method of Exercise. Subject to whatever installment exercise and waiting period provisions apply under Section 7.4(c),Non-Tandem Stock Appreciation Rights may be exercised in whole or in part at any time in accordance with the applicable Award Agreement, by giving written notice of exercise to the Company specifying the number ofNon-Tandem Stock Appreciation Rights to be exercised.

(e)Payment. Upon the exercise of aNon-Tandem Stock Appreciation Right a Participant shall be entitled to receive, for each right exercised, up to, but no more than, an amount in cash and/or Common Stock (as chosen by the Committee in its sole discretion) equal in value to the excess of the Fair Market Value of one share of Common Stock on the date that the right is exercised over the Fair Market Value of one share of Common Stock on the date that the right was awarded to the Participant.

(f)Termination. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee at grant or, if no rights of the Participant are reduced, thereafter, subject to the provisions of the applicable Award Agreement and the Plan, upon a Participant’s Termination for any reason,Non-Tandem Stock Appreciation Rights will remain exercisable following a Participant’s Termination on the same basis as Stock Options would be exercisable following a Participant’s Termination in accordance with the provisions of Sections 6.2(f) through 6.2(j).

(g)Non-Transferability. NoNon-Tandem Stock Appreciation Rights shall be Transferable by the Participant other than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution, and all such rights shall be exercisable, during the Participant’s lifetime, only by the Participant.

7.5Limited Stock Appreciation Rights. The Committee may, in its sole discretion, grant Tandem andNon-Tandem Stock Appreciation Rights either as a general Stock Appreciation Right or as a Limited Stock Appreciation Right. Limited Stock Appreciation Rights may be exercised only upon the occurrence of a Change in Control or such other event as the Committee may, in its sole discretion, designate at the time of grant or thereafter. Upon the exercise of Limited Stock Appreciation Rights, except as otherwise provided in an Award Agreement, the Participant shall receive in cash and/or Common Stock, as determined by the Committee, an amount equal to the amount (i) set forth in Section 7.2(e) with respect to Tandem Stock Appreciation Rights, or (ii) set forth in Section 7.4(e) with respect toNon-Tandem Stock Appreciation Rights.

7.6Other Terms and Conditions. The Committee may include a provision in an Award Agreement providing for the automatic exercise of a Stock Appreciation Right on a cashless basis on the last day of the term of such Stock Appreciation Right if the Participant has failed to exercise the Stock Appreciation Right as of such date, with respect to which the Fair Market Value of the shares of Common Stock underlying the Stock Appreciation Right exceeds the exercise price of such Stock Appreciation Right on the date of expiration of such Stock Appreciation Right, subject to Section 14.4. Stock Appreciation Rights may contain such other provisions, which shall not be inconsistent with any of the terms of the Plan, as the Committee shall deem appropriate.

ARTICLE VIII

RESTRICTED STOCK AND RESTRICTED STOCK UNITS

8.1Awards of Restricted Stock. Awards of Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units may be issued either alone or in addition to other Awards granted under the Plan. The Committee shall determine the Eligible Individuals, to whom, and the time or times at which, grants of Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units shall be made, the number of shares or units (as applicable) to be awarded, the price (if any) to be paid by the Participant (which may be zero to the extent permitted by applicable law, and, to the extent not so permitted, such purchase price may not be less than par value), the time or times within which such Awards may be subject to forfeiture, the vesting schedule (subject to the Minimum Vesting Requirement) and rights to acceleration thereof, and all other terms and conditions of the Awards.

8.2Awards and Certificates. Eligible Individuals selected to receive an Award of Restricted Stock or Restricted Stock Units shall not have any right with respect to such Award, unless and until such Participant has

delivered a fully executed copy of the agreement evidencing the Award to the Company, to the extent required by the Committee, and has otherwise complied with the applicable terms and conditions of such Award. Further, an Award of Restricted Stock shall be subject to the following conditions:

(a)Acceptance. Awards of Restricted Stock must be accepted within a period of 60 days (or such shorter period as the Committee may specify at grant) after the grant date, by executing a Restricted Stock agreement and by paying whatever price (if any) the Committee has designated thereunder.

(b)Legend. Each Participant receiving Restricted Stock shall be issued a stock certificate in respect of such shares of Restricted Stock, unless the Committee elects to use another system, such as book entries by the transfer agent, as evidencing ownership of shares of Restricted Stock. Such certificate shall be registered in the name of such Participant, and shall, in addition to such legends required by applicable securities laws, bear an appropriate legend referring to the terms, conditions, and restrictions applicable to such Award, substantially in the following form:

“The anticipation, alienation, attachment, sale, transfer, assignment, pledge, encumbrance or charge of the shares of stock represented hereby are subject to the terms and conditions (including forfeiture) of the Burlington Stores, Inc. (the “Company”) 2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) and an Agreement entered into between the registered owner and the Company dated                    . Copies of such Plan and Agreement are on file at the principal office of the Company.”

(c)Custody. If stock certificates are issued in respect of shares of Restricted Stock, the Committee may require that any stock certificates evidencing such shares be held in custody by the Company until the restrictions thereon shall have lapsed, and that, as a condition of any grant of Restricted Stock, the Participant shall have delivered a duly signed stock power or other instruments of assignment (including a power of attorney), each endorsed in blank with a guarantee of signature if deemed necessary or appropriate by the Company, which would permit transfer to the Company of all or a portion of the shares subject to the Restricted Stock Award in the event that such Award is forfeited in whole or part.

8.3Restrictions and Conditions. Awards of Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units awarded pursuant to the Plan shall be subject to such terms and conditions, not inconsistent with the provisions of the Plan (including Section 3.2(d) thereof), as shall be determined from time to time by the Committee, and the following:

(a)Vesting Period. The Participant shall not be permitted to Transfer shares of Restricted Stock, or be entitled to obtain shares of Common Stock or cash subject to an Award of Restricted Stock Units, during the vesting period or periods set by the Committee, subject to the Minimum Vesting Requirement, commencing on the date of such Award, as set forth in the applicable Award Agreement. Such agreement shall set forth a vesting schedule and any event that would accelerate vesting of the Award. Within these limits, based on service and/or such other factors or criteria as the Committee may determine in its sole discretion, the Committee may condition the grant or provide for the vesting of the Award in installments in whole or in part, or may accelerate the vesting of all or any part of any Award and/or waive the deferral limitations for all or any part of any Award.

(b)Rights as a Stockholder.

(i) Except as provided in Section 8.3(a) and this Section 8.3(b) or as otherwise determined by the Committee in an Award Agreement, the Participant shall have, with respect to the shares of Restricted Stock, all of the rights of a holder of shares of Common Stock of the Company, including, without limitation, the right to vote such shares and the right to receive dividends, provided that the Plan does not authorize the current payment of dividends in any form with respect to unvested Awards. Any cash dividends and stock dividends with respect to the Restricted Stock shall be withheld by the Company for the Participant’s account, and interest may be credited on the amount of the cash dividends withheld at a rate and subject to such terms as determined by the Committee. The cash dividends or stock dividends so withheld by the Committee and attributable to any

particular share of Restricted Stock (and earnings thereon, if applicable) shall be distributed to the Participant in cash or, at the discretion of the Committee, in shares of Common Stock having a Fair Market Value equal to the amount of such dividends, if applicable, upon the lapse of restrictions on such share and, if such share is forfeited, the Participant shall have no right to such dividends.

(ii) Except as otherwise determined by the Committee in an Award Agreement, an Award of Restricted Stock Units shall not provide the Participant with any rights of a holder of shares of Common Stock of the Company unless and until the shares of Common Stock underlying the Award are issued to the Participant. At the discretion of the Committee, each Restricted Stock Unit may be credited with cash and stock dividends paid by the Company in respect of one share of Common Stock (“Dividend Equivalents”), provided that the Plan does not authorize the current payment of Dividend Equivalents in any form with respect to unvested Awards. Dividend Equivalents will be deemedre-invested in additional Restricted Stock Units, subject to the same terms and conditions of the underlying Restricted Stock Unit, based on the Fair Market Value of a share of Common Stock on the applicable dividend payment date and rounded down to the nearest whole share. For the avoidance of doubt, if such Restricted Stock Unit is forfeited, the Participant shall have no right to such Dividend Equivalents.

(c)Termination. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee at grant or, if no rights of the Participant are reduced, thereafter, subject to the applicable provisions of the Award Agreement and the Plan, upon a Participant’s Termination for any reason, all unvested shares of Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units will be forfeited in accordance with the terms and conditions established by the Committee at grant or thereafter.

(d)Lapse of Restrictions. If and when a share of Restricted Stock becomes vested, the certificate for such share shall be delivered to the Participant. All legends shall be removed from said certificate at the time of delivery to the Participant, except as otherwise required by applicable law or other limitations imposed by the Committee.

ARTICLE IX

PERFORMANCE AWARDS

9.1Performance Awards. The Committee may grant a Performance Award to a Participant payable upon the attainment of specific Performance Goal(s). The Committee may grant Performance Awards that are intended to qualify as “performance-based compensation” under Section 162(m) of the Code, as well as Performance Awards that are not intended to qualify as “performance-based compensation” under Section 162(m) of the Code. If the Performance Award is payable in shares of Restricted Stock, such shares shall be transferable to the Participant only upon attainment of the relevant Performance Goal(s) in accordance with this Article IX. If the Performance Award is payable in cash, it may be paid upon the attainment of the relevant Performance Goal(s) either in cash or in shares of Common Stock (based on the then current Fair Market Value of such shares), as determined by the Committee, in its sole and absolute discretion. Subject to the Minimum Vesting Requirement, each Performance Award shall be evidenced by an Award Agreement in such form that is not inconsistent with the Plan and that the Committee may from time to time approve. With respect to Performance Awards that are intended to qualify as “performance-based compensation” under Section 162(m) of the Code, the Committee shall condition the right to payment of any Performance Award upon the attainment of objective Performance Goal(s) established pursuant to Section 9.2(c).

9.2Terms and Conditions. Performance Awards awarded pursuant to this Article IX shall be subject to such terms and conditions, not inconsistent with the provisions of the Plan (including Section 3.2(d) thereof), as shall be determined from time to time by the Committee, and the following:

(a)Earning of Performance Award. At the expiration of the applicable Performance Period, the Committee shall determine the extent to which the Performance Goals established pursuant to Section 9.2(c) are achieved and the percentage of each Performance Award that has been earned.

(b)Non-Transferability. Subject to the applicable provisions of the Award Agreement and the Plan, Performance Awards may not be Transferred during the Performance Period.

(c)Objective Performance Goals, Formulae or Standards. With respect to Performance Awards that are intended to qualify as “performance-based compensation” under Section 162(m) of the Code, the Committee shall establish the objective Performance Goal(s) for the earning of Performance Awards based on a Performance Period applicable to each Participant or class of Participants in writing prior to the beginning of the applicable Performance Period or at such later date as permitted under Section 162(m) of the Code and while the outcome of the Performance Goal(s) are substantially uncertain. Such Performance Goal(s) may incorporate, if and only to the extent permitted under Section 162(m) of the Code, provisions for disregarding (or adjusting for) changes in accounting methods, corporate transactions (including, without limitation, dispositions and acquisitions) and other similar type events or circumstances. To the extent that any such provision would create impermissible discretion under Section 162(m) of the Code or otherwise violate Section 162(m) of the Code, such provision shall be of no force or effect, with respect to Performance Awards that are intended to qualify as “performance-based compensation” under Section 162(m) of the Code.

(d)Dividends and Dividend Equivalents. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee at the time of grant, amounts equal to dividends and Dividend Equivalents, as applicable, declared during the Performance Period with respect to the number of shares of Common Stock covered by a Performance Award will not be paid to the Participant. For the avoidance of doubt, the Plan does not authorize the current payment of dividends or Dividend Equivalents in any form with respect to unvested Awards.

(e)Payment. Following the Committee’s determination in accordance with Section 9.2(a), and subject to the applicable provisions of the Award Agreement and the Plan, the Company shall settle Performance Awards, in such form (including, without limitation, in shares of Common Stock or in cash) as determined by the Committee, in an amount equal to such Participant’s earned Performance Awards. Notwithstanding the foregoing, subject to the applicable provisions of the Award Agreement and the Plan, the Committee may, in its sole discretion, award an amount less than the earned Performance Awards and/or subject the payment of all or part of any Performance Award to additional vesting, forfeiture and deferral conditions as it deems appropriate.

(f)Termination. Subject to the applicable provisions of the Award Agreement and the Plan, upon a Participant’s Termination for any reason during the Performance Period for a given Performance Award, the Performance Award in question will vest or be forfeited in accordance with the terms and conditions established by the Committee at grant.

(g)Accelerated Vesting. Based on service, performance and/or such other factors or criteria, if any, as the Committee may determine, the Committee may accelerate the vesting of all or any part of any Performance Award after the grant date.

ARTICLE X

OTHER STOCK-BASED AND CASH-BASED AWARDS

10.1Other Stock-Based Awards. The Committee is authorized to grant to Eligible Individuals Other Stock-Based Awards that are payable in, valued in whole or in part by reference to, or otherwise based on or related to shares of Common Stock, including but not limited to, shares of Common Stock awarded purely as a bonus and not subject to restrictions or conditions, shares of Common Stock in payment of the amounts due under an incentive or performance plan sponsored or maintained by the Company or an Affiliate, and Awards valued by reference to book value of shares of Common Stock. Other Stock-Based Awards may be granted either alone or in addition to or in tandem with other Awards granted under the Plan.

Subject to the provisions of the Plan, the Committee shall have authority to determine the Eligible Individuals, to whom, and the time or times at which, such Awards shall be made, the number of shares of

Common Stock to be awarded pursuant to such Awards, and all other conditions of the Awards. The Committee may also provide for the grant of Common Stock under such Awards upon the completion of a specified Performance Period.

10.2Terms and Conditions. Other Stock-Based Awards made pursuant to this Article X shall be subject to such terms and conditions, not inconsistent with the provisions of the Plan (including Section 3.2(d) thereof), as shall be determined from time to time by the Committee, and the following:

(a)Non-Transferability. Subject to the applicable provisions of the Award Agreement and the Plan, shares of Common Stock subject to Awards made under this Article X may not be Transferred prior to the date on which the shares are issued, or, if later, the date on which any applicable restriction, performance or deferral period lapses.

(b)Dividends. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee at the time of Award, subject to the provisions of the Award Agreement and the Plan, the recipient of an Award under this Article X shall not be entitled to receive, currently or on a deferred basis, dividends or Dividend Equivalents in respect of the number of shares of Common Stock covered by the Award. To the extent provided by the Committee, any such dividend or Dividend Equivalent, as applicable, with respect to the Award shall be withheld by the Company for the Participant’s account, and interest may be credited on the amount of the cash dividends or Dividend Equivalents withheld at a rate and subject to such terms as determined by the Committee. The dividends or Dividend Equivalents so withheld by the Committee and attributable to any particular share under the Award (and earnings thereon, if applicable) shall be distributed to the Participant in cash or, at the discretion of the Committee, in shares of Common Stock having a Fair Market Value equal to the amount of such dividends or Dividend Equivalents, as applicable, upon the lapse of restrictions on the Award and, if such Award is forfeited, the Participant shall have no right to such dividends or Dividend Equivalents. For the avoidance of doubt, the Plan does not authorize the current payment of dividends or Dividend Equivalents in any form with respect to unvested Awards.

(c)Vesting. Any Award under this Article X and any Common Stock covered by any such Award shall vest or be forfeited to the extent so provided in the Award Agreement, as determined by the Committee, in its sole discretion and subject to the Minimum Vesting Requirement.

(d)Price. Common Stock issued on a bonus basis under this Article X may be issued for no cash consideration. Common Stock purchased pursuant to a purchase right awarded under this Article X shall be priced, as determined by the Committee in its sole discretion.

10.3Other Cash-Based Awards. The Committee may from time to time grant Other Cash-Based Awards to Eligible Individuals in such amounts, on such terms and conditions not inconsistent with the provisions of the Plan (including Section 3.2(d) thereof), and for such consideration, including no consideration or such minimum consideration as may be required by applicable law, as it shall determine in its sole discretion. Other Cash-Based Awards may be granted subject to the satisfaction of vesting conditions or may be awarded purely as a bonus and not subject to restrictions or conditions, and if subject to vesting conditions and the Minimum Vesting Requirement, the Committee may accelerate the vesting of such Awards at any time in its sole discretion. The grant of an Other Cash-Based Award shall not require a segregation of any of the Company’s assets for satisfaction of the Company’s payment obligation thereunder.

ARTICLE XI

CHANGE IN CONTROL PROVISIONS

11.1Benefits. In the event of a Change in Control of the Company (as defined below), and except as otherwise provided by the Committee in an Award Agreement, a Participant’s unvested Award shall not vest automatically and a Participant’s Award shall be treated in accordance with one or more of the following methods as determined by the Committee:

(a) Awards, whether or not then vested, shall be continued, assumed, or have new rights substituted therefor, as determined by the Committee in a manner consistent with the requirements of Section 409A of the Code, and restrictions to which Awards granted prior to the Change in Control are subject shall not lapse upon a Change in Control and the Award shall, where appropriate in the sole discretion of the Committee, receive the same distribution as other Common Stock on such terms as determined by the Committee; provided that the Committee may decide to grant additional Awards in lieu of any cash distribution. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, for purposes of Incentive Stock Options, any assumed or substituted Stock Option shall comply with the requirements of Treasury RegulationSection 1.424-1 (and any amendment thereto).

(b) The Committee, in its sole discretion, may provide for the purchase of any Awards by the Company or an Affiliate for an amount of cash equal to the excess (if any) of the Fair Market Value of the shares of Common Stock covered by such Awards, over the aggregate exercise price of such Awards; provided that in the event that such exercise price does not exceed Fair Market Value, the Awards may be cancelled for no consideration.

(c) The Committee may, in its sole discretion, terminate any outstanding and unexercised Award that provides for a Participant elected exercise, effective as of the date of the Change in Control, by delivering notice of termination to each Participant at least twenty (20) days prior to the date of consummation of the Change in Control, in which case during the period from the date on which such notice of termination is delivered to the consummation of the Change in Control, each such Participant shall have the right to exercise in full all of such Participant’s Awards that are then vested and outstanding, but any such exercise shall be contingent on the occurrence of the Change in Control, and, provided that, if the Change in Control does not take place within a specified period after giving such notice for any reason whatsoever, the notice and exercise pursuant thereto shall be null and void.

(d) Notwithstanding any other provision herein to the contrary, the Committee may, in its sole discretion, provide for accelerated vesting or lapse of restrictions, of an Award at any time.

11.2Change in Control. Unless otherwise determined by the Committee in the applicable Award Agreement or other written agreement with a Participant approved by the Committee, a “Change in Control” shall be deemed to occur upon the occurrence of any of the following events:

(a) any “person,” as such term is used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Exchange Act (other than the Company, any trustee or other fiduciary holding securities under any employee benefit plan of the Company or any Affiliate of them, or any company owned, directly or indirectly, by the stockholders of the Company in substantially the same proportions as their ownership of Common Stock of the Company), becomes the beneficial owner (as defined in Rule13d-3 under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing 40% or more of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities;

(b) during any period of two consecutive years, individuals who at the beginning of such period constitute the Board, and any new director (other than a director designated by a person who has entered into an agreement with the Company to effect a transaction described in paragraph (a), (c), or (d) of this Section 11.2 or a director whose initial assumption of office occurs as a result of either an actual or threatened election contest (as such term is used in Rule14a-11 of Regulation 14A promulgated under the Exchange Act) or other actual or threatened solicitation of proxies or consents by or on behalf of a person other than the Board) whose election by the Board or nomination for election by the Company’s stockholders was approved by a vote of at leasttwo-thirds of the directors then still in office who either were directors at the beginning of thetwo-year period or whose election or nomination for election was previously so approved, cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority of the Board;

(c) the consummation of a merger or consolidation of the Company with any other corporation, other than a merger or consolidation which would result in the voting securities of the Company outstanding

immediately prior thereto continuing to represent (either by remaining outstanding or by being converted into voting securities of the surviving entity) more than 50% of the combined voting power of the voting securities of the Company or such surviving entity outstanding immediately after such merger or consolidation; provided, however, that a merger or consolidation effected to implement a recapitalization of the Company (or similar transaction) in which no person (other than those covered by the exceptions in Section 11.2(a)) acquires more than 50% of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities shall not constitute a Change in Control of the Company; or

(d) a complete liquidation or dissolution of the Company or the consummation of a sale or disposition by the Company of all or substantially all of the Company’s assets other than the sale or disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company to a person or persons who beneficially own, directly or indirectly, 50% or more of the combined voting power of the outstanding voting securities of the Company at the time of the sale.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, with respect to any Award that is characterized as “nonqualified deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code, an event shall not be considered to be a Change in Control under the Plan for purposes of payment of such Award unless such event is also a “change in ownership,” a “change in effective control” or a “change in the ownership of a substantial portion of the assets” of the Company within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code.

ARTICLE XII

TERMINATION OR AMENDMENT OF PLAN

12.1Termination or Amendment. Notwithstanding any other provision of the Plan, the Board may at any time, and from time to time, amend, in whole or in part, any or all of the provisions of the Plan or an Award Agreement (including any amendment deemed necessary to ensure that the Company may comply with any regulatory requirement referred to in Article XIV or Section 409A of the Code), or suspend or terminate it entirely, retroactively or otherwise; provided that the Plan may not be amended or altered so as to disqualify the Plan under Section 422 of the Code. The Committee may amend the terms of any outstanding Award, prospectively or retroactively, including without limitation, to modify, renew, extend the term of, and provide for payment of dividends and Dividend Equivalents with respect to such Award, subject to Sections 8.3(b)(i), 8.3(b)(ii) and 10.2(b). For the avoidance of doubt, the Plan does not authorize the current payment of dividends or Dividend Equivalents in any form with respect to unvested Awards. Notwithstanding the foregoing, unless otherwise required to comply with applicable law (including Section 409A of the Code) or specifically provided herein, the rights of a Participant with respect to Awards granted prior to any amendment, suspension or termination, may not be impaired, and no such amendment, suspension or termination may subject the Award to Section 409A of the Code or disqualify any Incentive Stock Option under such Section 422, without the consent of the Participant. In addition, without the approval of the holders of the Company’s Common Stock entitled to vote in accordance with applicable law, no amendment may be made that would (i) increase the aggregate number of shares of Common Stock that may be issued under the Plan (except by operation of Section 4.2); (ii) increase the maximum individual Participant limitations for a fiscal year under Section 4.1(b) (except by operation of Section 4.2); (iii) change the classification of individuals eligible to receive Awards under the Plan; (iv) decrease the minimum exercise price of any Stock Option or Stock Appreciation Right; (v) extend the maximum Stock Option term under Section 6.2(b); (vi) alter the Performance Goals established for purposes of Awards intended to be “performance-based compensation” under Section 162(m) of the Code, as set forth inExhibit A hereto; (vii) permit the award any Stock Option or Stock Appreciation Right in replacement of a canceled Stock Option or Stock Appreciation Right with a higher exercise price than the replacement award, or otherwise permit the cancellation of a Stock Option or Stock Appreciation Right with an exercise price higher than Fair Market Value in exchange for another Award or for cash; (viii) require stockholder approval in order for the Plan to continue to comply with the applicable provisions of Section 162(m) of the Code or, to the extent applicable to Incentive Stock Options, Section 422 of the Code; or (ix) require stockholder approval under

Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) rules and regulations or the rules of any exchange or system on which the Company’s securities are listed or traded at the request of the Company.

ARTICLE XIII

UNFUNDED STATUS OF PLAN

The Plan is intended to constitute an “unfunded” plan for incentive and deferred compensation. With respect to any payment as to which a Participant has a fixed and vested interest but which are not yet made to a Participant by the Company, nothing contained herein shall give any such Participant any right that is greater than those of a general unsecured creditor of the Company.

ARTICLE XIV

GENERAL PROVISIONS

14.1Legend. The Committee may require each person receiving shares of Common Stock pursuant to an Award under the Plan to represent to and agree with the Company in writing that the Participant is acquiring the shares without a view to distribution thereof. In addition to any legend required by the Plan, the certificates for such shares may include any legend that the Committee deems appropriate to reflect any restrictions on Transfer. All certificates for shares of Common Stock delivered under the Plan shall be subject to such stop transfer orders and other restrictions as the Committee may deem advisable under the rules, regulations and other requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission, any stock exchange upon which the Common Stock is then listed or any national securities exchange system upon whose system the Common Stock is then quoted, any applicable federal or state securities law, and any applicable corporate law, and the Committee may cause a legend or legends to be put on any such certificates to make appropriate reference to such restrictions.

14.2Other Plans. Nothing contained in the Plan shall prevent the Board from adopting other or additional compensation arrangements, subject to stockholder approval if such approval is required, and such arrangements may be either generally applicable or applicable only in specific cases.

14.3No Right to Employment/Directorship/Consultancy. Neither the Plan nor the grant of any Award hereunder shall give any Participant or other employee, Consultant orNon-Employee Director any right with respect to continuance of employment, consultancy or directorship by the Company or any Affiliate, nor shall there be a limitation in any way on the right of the Company or any Affiliate by which an employee is employed or a Consultant orNon-Employee Director is retained to terminate such employment, consultancy or directorship at any time.

14.4Withholding of Taxes. The Company shall have the right to deduct from any payment to be made pursuant to the Plan, or to otherwise require, prior to the issuance or delivery of shares of Common Stock or the payment of any cash hereunder, payment by the Participant of, any federal, state or local taxes up to the maximum statutory tax rates in the applicable jurisdictions. Upon the vesting of any Award that is taxable upon vesting, or upon making an election under Section 83(b) of the Code, a Participant shall pay all required withholding to the Company. Any withholding obligation under this Section 14.4 with regard to any Participant may be satisfied, subject to the consent of the Committee, by reducing the number of shares of Common Stock otherwise deliverable or by delivering shares of Common Stock already owned. Any fraction of a share of Common Stock required to satisfy such tax obligations shall be disregarded and the amount due shall be paid instead in cash by the Participant.

14.5No Assignment of Benefits. No Award or other benefit payable under the Plan shall, except as otherwise specifically provided by law or permitted by the Committee, be Transferable in any manner, and any attempt to Transfer any such benefit shall be void, and any such benefit shall not in any manner be liable for or subject to the debts, contracts, liabilities, engagements or torts of any person who shall be entitled to such benefit, nor shall it be subject to attachment or legal process for or against such person.

LOGO     LOGO 14.6Listing and Other Conditions.

Burlington Stores, Inc. 2020 Proxy Statement | 77

(a) Unless otherwise determined by the Committee, as long as the Common Stock is listed on a national securities exchange or system sponsored by a national securities association, the issuance of shares of Common Stock pursuant to an Award shall be conditioned upon such shares being listed on such exchange or system. The Company shall have no obligation to issue such shares unless and until such shares are so listed, and the right to exercise any Award with respect to such shares shall be suspended until such listing has been effected.

(b) If at any time counsel to the Company shall be of the opinion that any sale or delivery of shares of Common Stock pursuant to an Award is or may in the circumstances be unlawful or result in the imposition of excise taxes on the Company under the statutes, rules or regulations of any applicable jurisdiction, the Company shall have no obligation to make such sale or delivery, or to make any application or to effect or to maintain any qualification or registration under the Securities Act or otherwise, with respect to shares of Common Stock or Awards, and the right to exercise any Award shall be suspended until, in the opinion of said counsel, such sale or delivery shall be lawful or will not result in the imposition of excise taxes on the Company.


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(c) Upon termination of any period of suspension under this Section 14.6, any Award affected by such suspension which shall not then have expired or terminated shall be reinstated as to all shares available before such suspension and as to shares which would otherwise have become available during the period of such suspension, but no such suspension shall extend the term of any Award.

(d) A Participant shall be required to supply the Company with certificates, representations and information that the Company requests and otherwise cooperate with the Company in obtaining any listing, registration, qualification, exemption, consent or approval the Company deems necessary or appropriate.

14.7Governing Law. The Plan and actions taken in connection herewith shall be governed and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware (regardless of the law that might otherwise govern under applicable Delaware principles of conflict of laws).

14.8Jurisdiction; Waiver of Jury Trial. Any suit, action or proceeding with respect to the Plan or any Award Agreement, or any judgment entered by any court of competent jurisdiction in respect of any thereof, shall be resolved only in the courts of the State of Delaware or the United States District Court for the District of Delaware and the appellate courts having jurisdiction of appeals in such courts. In that context, and without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Company and each Participant shall irrevocably and unconditionally (a) submit in any proceeding relating to the Plan or any Award Agreement, or for the recognition and enforcement of any judgment in respect thereof (a “Proceeding”), to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of the State of Delaware, the court of the United States of America for the District of Delaware, and appellate courts having jurisdiction of appeals from any of the foregoing, and agree that all claims in respect of any such Proceeding shall be heard and determined in such Delaware State court or, to the extent permitted by law, in such federal court, (b) consent that any such Proceeding may and shall be brought in such courts and waives any objection that the Company and each Participant may now or thereafter have to the venue or jurisdiction of any such Proceeding in any such court or that such Proceeding was brought in an inconvenient court and agree not to plead or claim the same, (c) waive all right to trial by jury in any Proceeding (whether based on contract, tort or otherwise) arising out of or relating to the Plan or any Award Agreement, (d) agree that service of process in any such Proceeding may be effected by mailing a copy of such process by registered or certified mail (or any substantially similar form of mail), postage prepaid, to such party, in the case of a Participant, at the Participant’s address shown in the books and records of the Company or, in the case of the Company, at the Company’s principal offices, attention General Counsel, and (e) agree that nothing in the Plan shall affect the right to effect service of process in any other manner permitted by the laws of the State of Delaware.

14.9Construction. Wherever any words are used in the Plan in the masculine gender they shall be construed as though they were also used in the feminine gender in all cases where they would so apply, and

wherever words are used herein in the singular form they shall be construed as though they were also used in the plural form in all cases where they would so apply.

14.10Other Benefits. No Award granted or paid out under the Plan shall be deemed compensation for purposes of computing benefits under any retirement plan of the Company or its Affiliates nor affect any benefit under any other benefit plan now or subsequently in effect under which the availability or amount of benefits is related to the level of compensation.

14.11Costs. The Company shall bear all expenses associated with administering the Plan, including expenses of issuing Common Stock pursuant to Awards hereunder.

14.12No Right to Same Benefits. The provisions of Awards need not be the same with respect to each Participant, and such Awards to individual Participants need not be the same in subsequent years.

14.13Death/Disability. The Committee may in its discretion require the transferee of a Participant to supply it with written notice of the Participant’s death or Disability and to supply it with a copy of the will (in the case of the Participant’s death) or such other evidence as the Committee deems necessary to establish the validity of the transfer of an Award. The Committee may also require that the agreement of the transferee to be bound by all of the terms and conditions of the Plan.

14.14Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act. All elections and transactions under the Plan by persons subject to Section 16 of the Exchange Act involving shares of Common Stock are intended to comply with any applicable exemptive condition under Rule16b-3. The Committee may establish and adopt written administrative guidelines, designed to facilitate compliance with Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act, as it may deem necessary or proper for the administration and operation of the Plan and the transaction of business thereunder.

14.15Section 409A of the Code. The Plan is intended to comply with the applicable requirements of Section 409A of the Code and shall be limited, construed and interpreted in accordance with such intent. To the extent that any Award is subject to Section 409A of the Code, it shall be paid in a manner that will comply with Section 409A of the Code, including proposed, temporary or final regulations or any other guidance issued by the Secretary of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service with respect thereto. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, any provision in the Plan that is inconsistent with Section 409A of the Code shall be deemed to be amended to comply with Section 409A of the Code and to the extent such provision cannot be amended to comply therewith, such provision shall be null and void. The Company shall have no liability to a Participant, or any other party, if an Award that is intended to be exempt from, or compliant with, Section 409A of the Code is not so exempt or compliant or for any action taken by the Committee or the Company and, in the event that any amount or benefit under the Plan becomes subject to penalties under Section 409A of the Code, responsibility for payment of such penalties shall rest solely with the affected Participants and not with the Company. Notwithstanding any contrary provision in the Plan or Award Agreement, any payment(s) of “nonqualified deferred compensation” (within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code) that are otherwise required to be made under the Plan to a “specified employee” (as defined under Section 409A of the Code) as a result of such employee’s separation from service (other than a payment that is not subject to Section 409A of the Code) shall be delayed for the first six (6) months following such separation from service (or, if earlier, the date of death of the specified employee) and shall instead be paid (in a manner set forth in the Award Agreement) upon expiration of such delay period.

14.16Successor and Assigns. The Plan shall be binding on all successors and permitted assigns of a Participant, including, without limitation, the estate of such Participant and the executor, administrator or trustee of such estate.

14.17Severability of Provisions. If any provision of the Plan shall be held invalid or unenforceable, such invalidity or unenforceability shall not affect any other provisions hereof, and the Plan shall be construed and enforced as if such provisions had not been included.

14.18Payments to Minors, Etc. Any benefit payable to or for the benefit of a minor, an incompetent person or other person incapable of receipt thereof shall be deemed paid when paid to such person’s guardian or to the party providing or reasonably appearing to provide for the care of such person, and such payment shall fully discharge the Committee, the Board, the Company, its Affiliates and their employees, agents and representatives with respect thereto.

14.19Headings and Captions. The headings and captions herein are provided for reference and convenience only, shall not be considered part of the Plan, and shall not be employed in the construction of the Plan.

14.20Company Recoupment of Awards. A Participant’s rights with respect to any Award hereunder shall in all events be subject to (i) any right that the Company may have under any Company recoupment policy or other agreement or arrangement with a Participant, or (ii) any right or obligation that the Company may have regarding the clawback of “incentive-based compensation” under Section 10D of the Exchange Act and any applicable rules and regulations promulgated thereunder from time to time by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

ARTICLE XV

EFFECTIVE DATE OF PLAN

The Plan originally became effective on September 30, 2013. This amendment and restatement to the Plan is effective May 17, 2017, which is the date the stockholders of the Company approved the amendment and restatement of the Plan in accordance with the requirements of the laws of the State of Delaware.

ARTICLE XVI

TERM OF PLAN

No Award shall be granted pursuant to the Plan on or after the tenth anniversary of the earlier of the date that the Plan is adopted or the date of stockholder approval, but Awards granted prior to such tenth anniversary may extend beyond that date; provided that no Award (other than a Stock Option or Stock Appreciation Right) that is intended to be “performance-based compensation” under Section 162(m) of the Code shall be granted on or after the fifth anniversary of the stockholder approval of the Plan unless the Performance Goals arere-approved (or other designated Performance Goals are approved) by the stockholders no later than the first stockholder meeting that occurs in the fifth year following the year in which stockholders approve the Performance Goals.

ARTICLE XVII

NAME OF PLAN

The Plan shall be known as the “Burlington Stores, Inc. 2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan.” EXHIBIT A

EXHIBIT A

PERFORMANCE GOALS

To the extent permitted under Section 162(m) of the Code, performance goals established for purposes of Awards intended to be “performance-based compensation” under Section 162(m) of the Code, shall be based on the attainment of certain target levels of, or a specified increase or decrease (as applicable) in one or more of the following performance goals:

earnings per share;

operating income;

pre-tax income or earnings ;

gross income;

net income (before or after taxes);

adjusted net income per share ;

cash flow;

free cash flow ;

gross profit;

gross profit return on investment;

gross margin return on investment;

gross margin or gross margin ratio ;

operating margin;

working capital;

earnings before interest and taxes;

earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization;

return on equity;

return on assets;

return on capital;

return on invested capital;

net revenues;

gross revenues;

revenue growth;

annual recurring revenues;

recurring revenues;

license revenues;

sales or net sales ;

sales or market share;

comparable store sales ;

total shareholder return;

economic value added;

inventory turns ;

specified objectives with regard to limiting the level of increase in all or a portion of the Company’s bank debt or other long-term or short-term public or private debt or other similar financial obligations of the Company, which may be calculated net of cash balances and/or other offsets and adjustments as may be established by the Committee in its sole discretion;

the fair market value of a share of Common Stock;

the growth in the value of an investment in the Common Stock assuming the reinvestment of dividends; or

reduction in operating expenses.

With respect to Awards that are intended to qualify as “performance-based compensation” under Section 162(m) of the Code, to the extent permitted under Section 162(m) of the Code, the Committee may, in its sole discretion, also exclude, or adjust to reflect, the impact of an event or occurrence that the Committee determines should be appropriately excluded or adjusted, including:

(a) restructurings, discontinued operations, extraordinary items or events, and other unusual ornon-recurring charges as described in Accounting Standards Codification225-20, “Extraordinary and Unusual Items,” and/or management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations appearing or incorporated by reference in the Company’s Form10-K for the applicable year;

(b) an event either not directly related to the operations of the Company or not within the reasonable control of the Company’s management; or

(c) a change in tax law or accounting standards required by generally accepted accounting principles.

Performance goals may also be based upon individual participant performance goals, as determined by the Committee, in its sole discretion. In addition, Awards that are not intended to qualify as “performance-based compensation” under Section 162(m) of the Code may be based on the performance goals set forth herein or on such other performance goals as determined by the Committee in its sole discretion.

In addition, such performance goals may be based upon the attainment of specified levels of Company (or subsidiary, division, other operational unit, administrative department or product category of the Company) performance under one or more of the measures described above relative to the performance of other corporations. With respect to Awards that are intended to qualify as “performance-based compensation” under Section 162(m) of the Code, to the extent permitted under Section 162(m) of the Code, but only to the extent permitted under Section 162(m) of the Code (including, without limitation, compliance with any requirements for stockholder approval), the Committee may also:

(a) designate additional business criteria on which the performance goals may be based; or

(b) adjust, modify or amend the aforementioned business criteria.

ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS OF

BURLINGTON STORES, INC.

May 17, 2017

GO GREEN

e-Consent makes it easy to go paperless. With e-Consent, you can quickly access your proxy

material, statements and other eligible documents online, while reducing costs, clutter and

paper waste. Enroll today via www.astfinancial.com to enjoy online access.

20, 2020 NOTICE OF INTERNET AVAILABILITY OF PROXY MATERIAL:

MATERIAL: The Notice & Proxy Statement, Annual Report on Form10-K and Form of Electronic Proxy Card are available at -

at—http://www.astproxyportal.com/ast/18550/

Please sign, date and mail

your proxy card in the

envelope provided as soon

as possible.

i  Please detach along perforated line and mail in the envelope provided  i

    20330303000000001000  6    

051717

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE “FOR” THE ELECTION OF DIRECTORS AND

“FOR” PROPOSALS 2, 3 AND 4.

PLEASE SIGN, DATE AND RETURN PROMPTLY IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE. PLEASE MARK YOUR VOTE IN BLUE OR BLACK INK AS SHOWN HERE  

FORAGAINSTABSTAIN

1. Election of Directors:

2.

Ratification of appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as the Company’s independent registered certified public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending February 3, 2018.

FOR ALL NOMINEES

NOMINEES:

¡   Ted English           Class I director

¡   Jordan Hitch           Class I director

¡   Mary Ann Tocio    Class I director

WITHHOLD AUTHORITY
FOR ALL NOMINEES
3.

Approval, on an advisory (non-binding) basis, of the compensation of the Company’s named executive officers

FOR ALL EXCEPT

(See instructions below)

4.

Approval of the Burlington Stores, Inc. 2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan (as amended and restated).

In their discretion, the proxies are authorized to vote upon such other business as may properly come before the Annual Meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof. This proxy when properly executed will be voted as directed herein by the undersigned stockholder. If no direction is made, this proxy will be voted FOR ALL NOMINEES in Proposal 1 and FOR Proposals 2, 3 and 4.

INSTRUCTIONS:  To withhold authority to  vote  for any individual nominee(s), mark “FOR ALL EXCEPTand fill in the circle next to each nominee you wish to withhold, as shown here:🌑

MARK “X” HERE IF YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THE MEETING.  

To change the address on your account, please check the box at right and indicate your new address in the address space above. Please note that changes to the registered name(s) on the account may not be submitted via this method.

☐  

Signature of Stockholder Date: Signature of Stockholder Date: 

Note:Please sign exactly as your name or names appear on this Proxy. When shares are held jointly, each holder should sign. When signing as executor, administrator, attorney, trustee or guardian, please give full title as such. If the signer is a corporation, please sign full corporate name by duly authorized officer, giving full title as such. If signer is a partnership, please sign in partnership name by authorized person.


ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS OF

BURLINGTON STORES, INC.

May 17, 2017

PROXY VOTING INSTRUCTIONS

INTERNET- Access “www.voteproxy.com” and follow the on-screen instructions or scan the QR code with your smartphone. Have your proxy card available when you access the web page.

TELEPHONE- Call toll-free1-800-PROXIES(1-800-776-9437) in the United States or1-718-921-8500from foreign countries from any touch-tone telephone and follow the instructions. Have your proxy card available when you call.

Vote online/phone until 11:59 PM EST the day before the meeting.

MAIL -Sign, date and mail your proxy card in the envelope provided as soon as possible.

IN PERSON- You Signature of Stockholder Date: Signature of Stockholder Date: Note: Please sign exactly as your name or names appear on this Proxy. When shares are held jointly, each holder should sign. When signing as executor, administrator, attorney, trustee or guardian, please give full title as such. If the signer is a corporation, please sign full corporate name by duly authorized officer, giving full title as such. If signer is a partnership, please sign in partnership name by authorized person. To change the address on your account, please check the box at right and indicate your new address in the address space above. Please note that changes to the registered name(s) on the account may not be submitted via this method. 1. Election of Directors: Ted English Jordan Hitch Mary Ann Tocio 2. Ratification of appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as the Company’s independent registered certified public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending January 30, 2021. 3. Approval, on anon-binding, advisory basis, of the compensation of the Company’s named executive officers(“Say-On-Pay”). 4. Approval, on anon-binding basis, of the frequency of futureSay-On-Pay votes. In their discretion, the proxies are authorized to vote your shares in person by attendingupon such other business as may properly come before the Annual Meeting.

Meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof. This proxy when properly executed will be voted as directed herein by the undersigned stockholder. If no direction is made, this proxy will be voted FOR ALL NOMINEES in Proposal 1, FOR Proposals 2 and 3, and “1 YEAR” in Proposal 4. FOR AGAINST ABSTAIN THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE “FOR” THE ELECTION OF DIRECTORS, “FOR” PROPOSALS 2 AND 3, AND “1 YEAR” IN PROPOSAL 4. PLEASE SIGN, DATE AND RETURN PROMPTLY IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE. PLEASE MARK YOUR VOTE IN BLUE OR BLACK INK AS SHOWN HERE x Please detach along perforated line and mail in the envelope provided. 00003333030400001000 7 052020 MARK “X” HERE IF YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THE MEETING. GO GREEN-e-Consent makes it easy to go paperless. Withe-Consent, you can quickly access your proxy material, statements and other eligible documents online, while reducing costs, clutter and paper waste. Enroll today via www.astfinancial.com to enjoy online access. NOMINEES: Class I Director Class I Director Class I Director 2 1 YEAR YEARS 3 YEARS ABSTAIN

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COMPANY NUMBER

ACCOUNT NUMBER

NOTICE OF INTERNET AVAILABILITY OF PROXY MATERIAL:

The Notice & Proxy Statement, Annual Report on Form 10-K and Form of Electronic Proxy Card are available at - http://www.astproxyportal.com/ast/18550/

i  Please detach along perforated line and mail in the envelope providedIF you are not voting via telephone or the Internet.  i

  20330303000000001000  6    051717

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE “FOR” THE ELECTION OF DIRECTORS AND

“FOR” PROPOSALS 2, 3 AND 4.

PLEASE SIGN, DATE AND RETURN PROMPTLY IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE. PLEASE MARK YOUR VOTE IN BLUE OR BLACK INK AS SHOWN HERE  

FORAGAINSTABSTAIN

1. Election of Directors:

2.

Ratification of appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as the Company’s independent registered certified public accounting

firm for the fiscal year ending February 3, 2018.

FOR ALL NOMINEES

NOMINEES:

¡   Ted English          Class I director

¡   Jordan Hitch         Class I director

¡   Mary Ann Tocio   Class I director

WITHHOLD AUTHORITY
FOR ALL NOMINEES
3.Approval, on an advisory (non-binding) basis, of the compensation of the Company’s named executive officers.
4.Approval of the Burlington Stores, Inc. 2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan (as amended and restated).

FOR ALL EXCEPT

(See instructions below)

In their discretion, the proxies are authorized to vote upon such other business as may properly come before the Annual Meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof. This proxy when properly executed will be voted as directed herein by the undersigned stockholder.If no direction is made, this proxy will be voted FORALL NOMINEES in Proposal 1 and FOR Proposals 2, 3 and 4.

INSTRUCTIONS:  To withhold authority to vote for any individual nominee(s), mark“FOR ALL EXCEPT”and fill in the circle next to each nominee you wish to withhold, as shown here: 🌑

  MARK “X” HERE IF YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THE MEETING.  

To change the address on your account, please check the box at right and indicate your new address in the address space above. Please note that changes to the registered name(s) on the account may not be submitted via this method.☐ 

Signature of Stockholder Date: Signature of Stockholder Date: 

Note:Please sign exactly as your name or names appear on this Proxy. When shares are held jointly, each holder should sign. When signing as executor, administrator, attorney, trustee or guardian, please give full title as such. If the signer is a corporation, please sign full corporate name by duly authorized officer, giving full title as such. If signer is a partnership, please sign in partnership name by authorized person.


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0

14475 BURLINGTON STORES, INC.

Proxy for Annual Meeting of Stockholders on May 17, 2017

20, 2020 Solicited on Behalf of the Board of Directors

The undersigned hereby appoints Thomas A. Kingsbury, Janet DhillonMichael O’Sullivan, John Crimmins and Robert LaPenta,Karen Leu, and each of them, with full power of substitution and power to act alone, as proxies to vote all the shares of Common Stock which the undersigned would be entitled to vote if personally present and acting at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Burlington Stores, Inc., to be held at the offices of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLPBurlington Stores, Inc. located at 500 Boylston Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02116The Kingsbury Building, 2006 Route 130 North, Burlington, New Jersey 08016 on May 17, 201720, 2020 at 4:8:00 p.m.am Eastern Time, and at any adjournments or postponements thereof. The undersigned directs the named proxies to vote as directed on the reverse side of this card on the specified proposals and in their discretion on any other business which may properly come before the meeting and any adjournment or postponement thereof.

(Continued (Continued and to be signed on the reverse side.) 1.1

⬛    1.114475  ⬛