UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, DC 20549
FORM
CURRENT REPORT
Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
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Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions (see General Instruction A.2. below):
Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425) | |
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Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b)) | |
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Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
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Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (§230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (§240.12b-2 of this chapter).
Emerging growth company
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.
Item 1.01 | Entry into a Material Definitive Agreement. |
The information contained in Item 5.02 of this Form 8-K is hereby incorporated by reference into this Item.
Item 5.02 | Departure of Directors or Certain Officers; Election of Directors; Appointment of Certain Officers. |
On February 10, 2022, Kiromic BioPharma, Inc. (the “Company”) and Mr. Gianluca Rotino (“Mr. Rotino”) entered into a Transition and Consulting Agreement dated as of February 9, 2022 (the “Rotino Agreement”). Pursuant to the terms of the Rotino Agreement, effective as of February 9, 2022, Mr. Rotino’s employment as the Company’s Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer terminated and the Company retained Mr. Rotino to provide consulting services to the Company for a period of nine months (or until November 9, 2022). Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Rotino Agreement may be terminated by either the Company or Mr. Rotino upon 30 days’ prior written notice, except no such prior notice shall be required in the event the Company terminates the Rotino Agreement for cause.
Pursuant to the Rotino Agreement, Mr. Rotino’s compensation shall be $25,000 per month. In addition, the Company agreed that Mr. Rotino’s service under the Rotino Agreement shall constitute continued service to the Company under the terms of the award agreements governing certain restricted stock units (“RSUs”) that were previously issued to Mr. Rotino and that Mr. Rotino’s previously issued RSUs will continue to vest. The Rotino Agreement contains standard termination, confidentiality, and proprietary rights provisions.
Under the terms of the Executive Employment Agreement between Mr. Rotino and the Company effective as of July 1, 2020, as amended October 21, 2020, as the result of the termination of Mr. Rotino’s employment, Mr. Rotino is deemed to have resigned as a member of the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”) effective as of February 9, 2022.
A copy of the Rotino Agreement is filed herewith as Exhibit 10.1 and is incorporated herein by reference. The foregoing description of the Rotino Agreement is qualified in its entirety by reference to Exhibit 10.1.
On February 10, 2022, the Company and Dr. Scott Dahlbeck (“Dr. Dahlbeck”) entered into a Modification to Employment Agreement dated as of February 9, 2022 (the “Dahlbeck Agreement”). The Dahlbeck Agreement amends and supersedes certain terms of the Employment Agreement dated as of January 1, 2020, between the Company and Dr. Dahlbeck. Pursuant to the Dahlbeck Agreement, effective as of February 9, 2022, Dr. Dahlbeck’s title was changed to Chief of Staff, and he ceased to be the Company’s Chief Medical Officer and Head of Clinical.
Pursuant to the Dahlbeck Agreement, the Company may terminate Dr. Dahlbeck’s employment at any time for any reason. Dr. Dahlbeck may terminate his employment with the Company at any time with 30 days’ prior written notice.
The Dahlbeck Agreement provides that if the Company terminates Dr. Dahlbeck’s employment “without cause” (as defined in the Dahlbeck Agreement), the Company shall pay Dr. Dahlbeck an amount equal to his base salary on the date of termination for a period of nine (9) months, paid on a monthly basis.
A copy of the Dahlbeck Agreement is filed herewith as Exhibit 10.2 and is incorporated herein by reference. The foregoing description of the Dahlbeck Agreement is qualified in its entirety by reference to Exhibit 10.2.
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The Rotino Agreement and the Dahlbeck Agreement were entered into as a result of recommendations made to the Board by the Special Committee of the Board (the “Special Committee”) following the completion of the internal review conducted by the Special Committee which is described in the Company’s Form 8-K dated January 27, 2022 and filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 2, 2022.
On February 14, 2022, the Company and Daniel Clark (“Mr. Clark”) entered into an Executive Employment Agreement dated as of February 14, 2022 (the “Clark Agreement”) with respect to Mr. Clark’s continued service as the Company’s Interim Chief Financial Officer (“Interim CFO”). The term of the Clark Agreement commenced on February 14, 2022 and will continue until termination by either the Company or Mr. Clark as provided in the Clark Agreement. Pursuant to the Clark Agreement, Mr. Clark’s base compensation will be $265,000 per year. Pursuant to the Clark Agreement, Mr. Clark is eligible to participate in any bonus or similar incentive plan approved by the Board for executives at Mr. Clark’s level based on a target of $75,000. Pursuant to the terms of the Clark Agreement, the Company shall pay Mr. Clark a bonus in the amount of $25,000 no later than the first payroll date following the date of the execution of the Clark Agreement. Pursuant to the Clark Agreement, Mr. Clark is also entitled to receive a grant of 150,000 restricted stock units (“RSUs”) promptly after execution of the Clark Agreement. 50,000 of the RSUs will vest immediately upon grant and the remaining 100,000 of the RSUs will vest over a three-year period (with one-third of such amount vesting on February 14, 2023, and 1/36 of such amount vesting on a monthly basis thereafter) conditioned on Mr. Clark’s continued employment with the Company. Mr. Clark is also eligible to participate in the Company’s employee benefit plans as in effect from time to time on the same basis as generally made available to other executive employees of the Company in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plan documents; provided that Mr. Clark meets the eligibility requirements thereof.
Concurrently with the execution of the Clark Agreement, the Company and Mr. Clark entered into the Company’s standard Confidential Information, Inventions, Non-Solicitation and Non-Competition Agreement and the Company’s standard Indemnification Agreement.
Copies of the Clark Agreement, the Confidential Information, Inventions, Non-Solicitation and Non-Competition Agreement, and the Indemnification Agreement are filed as Exhibits 10.3, 10.4 and 10.5, respectively, and are incorporated herein by reference. The foregoing descriptions of the terms of the Clark Agreement, the Confidential Information, Inventions, Non-Solicitation and Non-Competition Agreement, and the Indemnification Agreement are qualified in their entirety by reference to such exhibits.
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Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibit
(d) Exhibits.
The following exhibits are filed with this Current Report on Form 8-K:
Exhibit | Description |
10.1 | |
10.2 | |
10.3 | |
10.4 | |
10.5 | |
104 | Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL document). |
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.
Kiromic BioPharma, Inc. | ||
Date: February 16, 2022 | By: | /s/ Daniel Clark |
|
| Daniel Clark Interim Chief Financial Officer |
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Exhibit 10.1
Corporate Address
Fannin South Professional
Building, Suite 140
7707 Fannin Street
Houston, Texas 77054
t: 832.968.4888
Transition and Consulting Agreement
February 9, 2022
Gianluca Rotino
Dear Mr. Rotino:
Kiromic BioPharma, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), is pleased to offer this Transition and Consulting Agreement (this “Agreement”), effective as of February 9, 2022 (the “Effective Date”), to Mr. Gianluca Rotino (“Consultant,” together with the Company, the “Parties” and, each, a “Party”) in connection with the termination of his employment with the Company and retention as an independent contractor to perform certain consulting services. In consideration of the mutual promises and agreements contained in this Agreement, and other valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:
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Gianluca Rotino
February 9, 2022
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Gianluca Rotino
February 9, 2022
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Gianluca Rotino
February 9, 2022
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Gianluca Rotino
February 9, 2022
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Gianluca Rotino
February 9, 2022
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Gianluca Rotino
February 9, 2022
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Gianluca Rotino
February 9, 2022
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Gianluca Rotino
February 9, 2022
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Gianluca Rotino
February 9, 2022
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Gianluca Rotino
February 9, 2022
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Gianluca Rotino
February 9, 2022
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Gianluca Rotino
February 9, 2022
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Gianluca Rotino
February 9, 2022
If to the Company:
Kiromic BioPharma, Inc.
Attention: CFO
7707 Fannin Street, Suite 140
Houston, TX, 77054
If to Executive:
At the most recent address on file with the Company
With a courtesy copy to Consultant’s counsel who represented him in connection with the Agreement, Andrew Strong of Hogan Lovells
[The remainder of this page is intentionally blank; signature page follows.]
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Gianluca Rotino
February 9, 2022
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have executed this Agreements as of the Effective Date.
CONSULTANT /s/ Gianluca Rotino Gianluca Rotino | KIROMIC BIOPHARMA INC. By:/s/ Pietro Bersani Name: Pietro Bersani Title: Interim Chief Executive Officer |
[Signature page to Transition and Consulting Agreement.]
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EXHIBIT A
SUPPLEMENTAL GENERAL RELEASE OF CLAIMS
This Waiver and General Release Agreement (“Release”) is executed by Gianluca Rotino (“Consultant”) on this day of ______________ , ____.
1.Waiver and General Release. Consultant, on behalf of himself and his heirs, executors, administrators, family members, attorneys and assigns, hereby waives, generally releases and forever discharges Kiromic BioPharma, Inc. (the “Company”), together with the Company’s directors, subsidiaries, divisions and affiliates, whether direct or indirect, its and their joint ventures and joint venturers (including each of their respective directors, officers, employees, shareholders, members, managers, partners, attorneys, insurers, and agents, past, present, and future), and each of its and their respective successors and assigns (hereinafter collectively referred to as “Releasees”), from any and all known or unknown actions, causes of action, suits, complaints, contracts (whether oral or written, express or implied from any source), promises and liabilities of any kind, in law or equity, that Consultant ever had, may now have or hereafter can, will or may have against the Releasees as of and including the Release Effective Date (defined below), including, but not limited to:
a. | claims, actions, causes of action or liabilities arising under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (the “ADEA”), the Older Workers Benefits Protection Act (the “OWBPA”), the Equal Pay Act, the Fair Labor Standards Act, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act, the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, Section 1981 of the Civil Rights Act, the 1991 Civil Rights Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, and/or any other federal, state, municipal or local employment discrimination statutes or ordinances (including, but not limited to, claims based on age, sex, attainment of benefit plan rights, race, religion, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, ancestry, harassment, parental status, handicap, disability, retaliation, and veteran status); and/or |
b. | claims, actions, causes of action or liabilities arising under any other federal, state, municipal, or local statute, law, ordinance or regulation; and/or |
c. | future causes of action under the federal false claims act and/or any state false claims act relating in any manner to information learned while employed with the Company; and/or |
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d. | any other claim whatsoever including, but not limited to, claims for severance pay, sick pay, unpaid wages, unpaid bonuses, unpaid paid time off, claims based upon breach of contract, breach of the covenant of good faith and fair dealing, wrongful termination, defamation, interference with contract, intentional and/or negligent infliction of emotional distress, fraud, tort, personal injury, invasion of privacy, violation of public policy, negligence and/or any other common law, statutory or other claim whatsoever arising out of or relating to his employment with and/or separation from employment with the Company and/or any of the other Releasees, but excluding any claims that by law Consultant cannot waive, including claims for indemnification, and any claim that the Company has failed to make any payments or to provide any of the payments or benefits described in the Transition and Consulting Agreement, dated as of February 9, 2022, between Consultant and the Company (the “Consulting Agreement”). |
2.Remedies if Consultant Breaches Waiver and Release. Consultant further acknowledges and agrees that if he breaches the provisions of the waiver and release, then to the fullest extent permitted by law, (a) the Company will be entitled to apply for and receive an injunction to restrain any violation of the waiver and release, (b) the Company will not be obligated to make any additional payments or provide any additional benefits, and (c) Consultant will be obligated to pay to the Company its costs and expenses in enforcing the waiver and release and defending against such lawsuit (including court costs, expenses and reasonable legal fees) if Company is the prevailing party.
3.Waiver of Reinstatement Rights. To the extent permitted by law, Consultant further waives, releases, and discharges Releasees from any reinstatement rights that Consultant has or could have.
4.Representations and Warranties of Consultant. Consultant expressly represents and warrants that (a) he is the sole owner of the actual or alleged claims, demands, rights, causes of action, and other matters that are released by Consultant herein; (b) the same have not been transferred or assigned or caused to be transferred or assigned to any other person, firm, corporation or other legal entity; and (c) Consultant has the full right and power to grant, execute and deliver the releases, undertakings, and agreements contained herein. Consultant further represents and warrants that he is unaware of any lien that has been noticed or filed and that would attach to any payment or benefit to be made or given by the Company pursuant to this Release. Consultant agrees to indemnify the Releasees, including payment of any attorneys’ fees and costs, and hold the Releasees harmless from and against any and all damages that may be suffered by them in the event that any of the foregoing representations and warranties are
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untrue in whole or part, and any and all claims based on or arising from any such assignment or transfer, or any attempted assignment or transfer, of any matters released herein.
5.Release of Known and Unknown Claims and Claims Under Age Discrimination in Employment Act. Consultant understands that this waiver and release includes a release of all known and unknown claims, including claims under the federal ADEA. Consultant acknowledges that this Release does not waive any right or claim that he may have under the ADEA, as amended by the OWBPA, that arises after the Release Effective Date.
6.Knowing and Voluntary Waiver. Consultant further acknowledges and agrees that he has carefully read and fully understands all of the provisions of this waiver and release and that he has obtained representation by counsel in connection with his execution of this waiver and release. Consultant has freely, knowingly and voluntarily elected to execute this Release, in exchange for due consideration, by signing below. Consultant further acknowledges that he (i) is not relying upon any statements, understandings, representations, expectations, or agreements other than those expressly set forth in this Release; (ii) has made his own investigation of the facts and is relying solely upon his own knowledge; and (iii) knowingly waives any claim that this Release was induced by any misrepresentation or nondisclosure and any right to rescind or avoid this Release based upon presently existing facts, known or unknown. Consultant acknowledges that the Company has provided him with the disclosure information pursuant to the ADEA and OWBPA (under Title 29 U.S.C. Section 626(f)(1)(H)), attached as Exhibit 1 to this Release.
7.Protected Rights. Consultant understands that nothing contained in this Release prohibits or limits Consultant’s ability to file a charge or complaint with any federal, state or local governmental agency or commission. Consultant also understands that this Release does not prohibit or limit Consultant’s ability to communicate with any federal, state or local governmental agency or commission, or to otherwise participate in any investigation or proceeding that may be conducted by such an agency or commission, including providing documents or other information.
8.Cooperation. In consideration for the payments and agreements set forth in the Consulting Agreement, Consultant agrees, upon request of the Company, to cooperate with the Company and its subsidiaries and affiliates with reasonable advance notice to provide information to and assist the Company, and its subsidiaries and affiliates in the investigation, defense, or prosecution of any suspected claim against or by the Company and its/their subsidiaries and affiliates or any Releasee. Such assistance will include, but is not limited to, participating in interviews with representatives of the Company, attending, as a witness, depositions, trials, or other similar proceedings without requiring a subpoena, and producing and/or providing any documents or names of other persons with relevant information. Consultant further agrees that he will provide full, complete and truthful information and testimony in all interviews, meetings, and/or testimony. Consultant understands that Company
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will reimburse Consultant for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred as a result of such cooperation. Consultant will act in good faith to furnish the information and cooperation required by this Section 8 (Cooperation), and the Company will act in good faith so that the requirement to furnish such information and cooperation does not create a hardship for Consultant.
9.Time to Consider Release; Revocation. Consultant acknowledges that he has had at least 21 calendar days after the receipt of this Release to consider signing this Release and that he may voluntarily choose to waive this 21-day period. In addition, Consultant has seven calendar days after signing the Release to revoke it, in which case this Release will be null and void. Any such revocation must be in writing and be submitted to Kiromic BioPharma, Inc., Attn: CFO, 7707 Fannin Street, Suite 140; Houston, TX, 77054. Consultant understands that if he signs this Release and does not revoke the Release within seven calendar days after signing, this Release will become fully effective and enforceable (the “Release Effective Date”). Consultant also understands that no severance payments will be paid to him until the seven-calendar-day revocation period has expired without him having revoked the Release.
Consultant
By:________________________
Date:________________________
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| Exhibit 10.2 Corporate Address Fannin South Professional |
Modification to Employment Agreement
February 9, 2022
Scott Dahlbeck
Dear Scott:
Reference is made to your Employment Agreement with Kiromic BioPharma, Inc. (the “Company”) dated January 1, 2020 (the “Employment Agreement”). You and the Company desire to modify certain terms of the Employment Agreement and, accordingly, agree to the following terms and conditions of this modification to the Employment Agreement (this “Modification”), effective as of today, February 9, 2022 (the “Effective Date”):
5.Employment Relationship. Employment with the Company is on “at will” basis upon terms and conditions of this letter agreement. Any contrary representations that may have been made to you are superseded by this letter agreement, which is the full and complete agreement between you and the Company on this term. As an employee at will, you may terminated or may terminate your employment at any time, for any or no reason. If you resign from your employment with the Company you shall provide at least 30 days’ prior written notice to the Company.
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Scott Dahlbeck
February 9, 2022
6.Severance.
(a)Generally. In the event your employment is terminated by the Company without Cause (as defined below), provided that you first execute and (if applicable) do not revoke a release agreement in a form provided to you by the Company (the “Release”) within the time period specified in the Release, but in any event no later than sixty (60) days after the termination date, the Company shall pay the you an amount equal to nine (9) months of your then-current base salary (less all applicable tax withholdings) payable in installments during the nine (9) month period immediately following the termination date in accordance with the then-current generally applicable payroll schedule of the Company commencing on the first regularly-scheduled pay date of the Company processed after the effective date of the Release (defined below), with the first payment to include a catchup for any amounts that would have been paid had the Release been effective on the termination date. For the avoidance of doubt, a termination of your employment due to your death or disability shall not be a termination without Cause.
(b)Cause. As used herein, “Cause” means:
(1)Any material breach of the terms of this Agreement by you or the material and deliberate failure by you to diligently perform your duties for the Company; provided, however, that, to the extent such grounds for cause are curable, the Company must first provide you with written notice of the grounds under this Section 6(b)(1) and a period of ten (10) business days in which to cure such grounds;
(2)Your unauthorized use of the Company’s tangible or intangible property (excluding incidental use) that results (or would be reasonably likely to result) in material harm to the Company, or your material breach of your Employee Invention Assignment and Confidentiality Agreement with the Company or any other similar written agreement between you and the Company regarding confidentiality, intellectual property rights, non-competition or non-solicitation; provided, however, that, to the extent such
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Scott Dahlbeck
February 9, 2022
grounds for cause are curable, the Company must first provide you with written notice of the grounds under this Section 6(b)(2) and a period of ten (10) business days in which to cure such grounds;
(3)Any material failure to comply with applicable material Company policies, government laws, rules and regulations applicable to the Company’s business and/or directives of the Board consistent with your position; provided, however, that, to the extent such grounds for cause are curable, the Company must first provide you with written notice of the grounds under this Section 6(b)(3) and a period of ten (10) business days in which to cure such grounds;
(4)Your use of illegal drugs or any illegal substance, or your use of alcohol, in any case, in any manner that materially interferes with the performance of your duties under this Agreement; provided, however, that, to the extent such grounds for cause are curable, the Company must first provide you with written notice of the grounds under this Section 6(b)(4) and a period of ten (10) business days in which to cure such grounds;
(5)Any action taken by you in bad faith which is materially detrimental to the interest and well-being of the Company, including, without limitation, material harm to its reputation; provided, however, that, to the extent such grounds for cause are curable, the Company must first provide you with written notice of the grounds under this Section 6(b)(5) and a period of ten (10) business days in which to cure such grounds; or
(6)Your failure to fully disclose any material conflict of interest that you may have with the Company in a transaction between the Company and any third party which is materially detrimental to the interest and well-being of the Company; provided, however, that, to the extent such grounds for cause are curable, the Company must first provide you with written notice of the grounds under this Section 6(b)(6) and a period of ten (10) business days in which to cure such grounds.
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Scott Dahlbeck
February 9, 2022
* * * * *
[SIGNATURE PAGE TO FOLLOW]
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Scott Dahlbeck
February 9, 2022
You may indicate your agreement to the terms of this Modification by signing and dating this Modification below where indicated and returning it to me.
Very truly yours,
KIROMIC BIOPHARMA, INC:
By:/s/ Pietro Bersani
Name: Pietro Bersani
Title: Interim Chief Executive Officer
I have read and agree to the terms of this Modification.
/s/ Scott Dahlbeck
Scott Dahlbeck
Date: February 10, 2022
[SIGNATURE PAGE TO MODIFICATION OF EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT]
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Exhibit 10.3
EXECUTIVE EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
THIS EXECUTIVE EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (the “Agreement”), is effective as of February 14, 2022 (the “Effective Date”) by and between Kiromic Biopharma, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), and Dan Clark (the “Executive”). Throughout the remainder of the Agreement, the Company and Executive may be individually referred to as a ‘party” or collectively referred to as “the parties.”
W I T N E S S E T H:
WHEREAS, the Company wishes to continue to employ the Executive, and the Executive desires to accept such continued employment with the Company, upon the terms and conditions of this Agreement;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing, of the mutual promises herein, and of other good and valuable consideration, including the continued employment of the Executive by the Company and the compensation to be received by the Executive from the Company from time to time, and specifically the compensation to be received by the Executive pursuant to Section 4 below, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto, intending legally to be bound, hereby agree as follows:
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2
3
4
5
6
7
If to the Company,
Kiromic Biopharma, Inc.
7707 Fannin Street, Suite 140
Houston, TX 77054
Attn: CEO
If to Executive:
Dan Clark
837 West 24th St.
Houston, TX 77008
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9
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the day and year first above written.
By: /s/ Daniel Clark Daniel Clark | KIROMIC BIOPHARMA INC. By:/s/ Pietro Bersani Name: Pietro Bersani Title: Interim Chief Executive Officer |
[Signature page for Executive Employment Agreement.]
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Exhibit 10.4
CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION, INVENTIONS, NON-SOLICITATION AND
NON-COMPETITION AGREEMENT
In consideration of my employment by Kiromic Biopharma Inc., and its subsidiaries, parents, affiliates, successors and assigns (together, “Kiromic” or the “Company”) and the compensation now and later paid to me, I hereby enter into this Confidential Information, Inventions, Non Solicitation and Non Competition Agreement (the “Agreement”) and agree as follows:
1.CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION PROTECTIONS.
1.1Recognition of Company’s Rights; Nondisclosure. I understand and acknowledge that my employment by Company creates a relationship of confidence and trust with respect to Company’s Confidential Information (as defined below) and that Company has a protectable interest therein. At all times during and after my employment, I will hold in confidence and will not disclose, use, lecture upon or publish any of Company’s Confidential Information, except as such disclosure, use or publication may be required in connection with my work for Company, or unless an officer of Company expressly authorizes such disclosure in writing. I will obtain Company’s written approval before publishing or submitting for publication any material (written, verbal, or otherwise) that discloses and/or incorporates any Confidential Information. I hereby assign to Kiromic any rights I may have or acquire in such Confidential Information and recognize that all Confidential Information shall be the sole and exclusive property of Kiromic and its assigns. I will take all reasonable precautions to prevent the inadvertent or accidental disclosure of Confidential Information. Notwithstanding the foregoing, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1833(b), I shall not be held criminally or civilly liable under any Federal or State trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret that: (1) is made in confidence to a Federal, State, or local government official, either directly or indirectly, or to an attorney, and solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law; or (2) is made in a complaint or other document filed in a lawsuit or other proceeding, if such filing is made under seal.
1.2Confidential Information. The term “Confidential Information” shall mean any and all confidential knowledge, data or information of Company. By way of illustration but not limitation, “Confidential Information” includes (a) trade secrets, inventions, mask works, ideas, processes, formulas, software in source or object code versions, data, programs, other works of authorship, know how, improvements, discoveries, developments, designs and techniques and any other proprietary technology and all Intellectual Property Rights therein (collectively, “Inventions”); (b) information regarding research, development, new products, marketing and selling, business plans, budgets and unpublished financial statements, licenses, prices and costs, margins, discounts, credit terms, pricing and billing policies, quoting procedures, methods of obtaining business, forecasts, future plans and potential strategies, financial projections and business strategies, operational plans, financing and capital raising plans, activities and agreements, internal services and operational manuals, methods of conducting Company business, suppliers and supplier information, and purchasing; (c) information regarding customers and potential customers of Company, including customer lists, names, representatives, their needs or desires with respect to the types of products or services offered by Company,
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proposals, bids, contracts and their contents and parties, the type and quantity of products and services provided or sought to be provided to customers and potential customers of Company and other non public information relating to customers and potential customers; (d) information regarding any of Company’s business partners and their services, including names; representatives, proposals, bids, contracts and their contents and parties, the type and quantity of products and services received by Company, and other non public information relating to business partners; (e) information regarding personnel, employee lists, compensation, and employee skills; and (f) any other non public information which a competitor of Company could use to the competitive disadvantage of Company. Notwithstanding the foregoing, it is understood that, at all such times, I am free to use information which was known to me prior to employment with Company or which is generally known in the trade or industry through no breach of this Agreement or other act or omission by me. Notwithstanding the foregoing or anything to the contrary in this Agreement or any other agreement between Company and me, nothing in this Agreement shall limit my right to discuss my employment or report possible violations of law or regulation with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, United States Department of Labor, the National Labor Relations Board, the Securities and Exchange Commission, or other federal government agency or similar state or local agency or to discuss the terms and conditions of my employment with others to the extent expressly permitted by Section 7 of the National Labor Relations Act or to the extent that such disclosure is protected under the applicable provisions of law or regulation, including but not limited to “whistleblower” statutes or other similar provisions that protect such disclosure.
1.3Third Party Information. I understand, in addition, that Company has received and in the future will receive from third parties their confidential and/or proprietary knowledge, data or information (“Third Party Information”) subject to a duty on Company’s part to maintain the confidentiality of such information and to use it only for certain limited purposes. During my employment and thereafter, I will hold Third Party Information in confidence and will not disclose to anyone (other than Company personnel who need to know such information in connection with their work for Company) or use, except in connection with my work for Company, Third Party Information unless expressly authorized by an officer of Company in writing.
1.4Term of Nondisclosure Restrictions. I understand that Confidential Information and Third Party Information is never to be used or disclosed by me, as provided in this Section 1. If a temporal limitation on my obligation not to use or disclose such information is required under applicable law, and the Agreement or its restriction(s) cannot otherwise be enforced, I agree and Company agrees that the two (2) year period after the date my employment ends will be the temporal limitation relevant to the contested restriction, provided, however, that this sentence will not apply to trade secrets protected without temporal limitation under applicable law.
1.5No Improper Use of Information of Prior Employers and Others. During my employment by Company, I will not improperly use or disclose confidential information or trade secrets, if any, of any former employer or any other person to whom I have an obligation of confidentiality, and I will not bring onto the premises of Company any unpublished documents or any property belonging to any former employer or any other person to whom I have an obligation of confidentiality unless consented to in writing by that former employer or person.
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2.ASSIGNMENTS OF INVENTIONS
2.1Definitions. As used in this Agreement, the term “Intellectual Property Rights” means all trade secrets, Copyrights, trademarks, mask work rights, patents and other intellectual property rights recognized by the laws of any jurisdiction or country; the term “Copyright” means the exclusive legal right to reproduce, perform, display, distribute and make derivative works of a work of authorship (as a literary, musical, or artistic work) recognized by the laws of any jurisdiction or country; and the term “Moral Rights” means all paternity, integrity, disclosure, withdrawal, special and any other similar rights recognized by the laws of any jurisdiction or country.
2.2Excluded Inventions and Other Inventions. Attached hereto as Exhibit A is a list describing all existing Inventions, if any, that may relate to Company’s business or actual or demonstrably anticipated research or development and that were made by me or acquired by me prior to the commencement of my employment with, and which are not to be assigned to, Company (“Excluded Inventions”). If no such list is attached, I represent and agree that it is because I have no rights in any existing Inventions that may relate to Company’s business or actual or demonstrably anticipated research or development. For purposes of this Agreement, “Other Inventions” means Inventions in which I have or may have an interest, as of the commencement of my employment, other than Company Inventions (defined below) and Excluded Inventions. I acknowledge and agree that if I use any Excluded Inventions or any Other Inventions in the scope of my employment, or if I include any Excluded Inventions or Other Inventions in any product or service of Company, or if my rights in any Excluded Inventions or Other Inventions may block or interfere with, or may otherwise be required for, the exercise by Company of any rights assigned to Company under this Agreement, I will immediately so notify Company in writing. Unless Company and I agree otherwise in writing as to particular Excluded Inventions or Other Inventions, I hereby grant to Company, in such circumstances (whether or not I give Company notice as required above), a non exclusive, perpetual, transferable, fully paid and royalty free, irrevocable and worldwide license, with rights to sublicense through multiple levels of sublicensees, to reproduce, make derivative works of, distribute, publicly perform, and publicly display in any form or medium, whether now known or later developed, make, have made, use, sell, import, offer for sale, and exercise any and all present or future rights in, such Excluded Inventions and Other Inventions. To the extent that any third parties have rights in any such Other Inventions, I hereby represent and warrant that such third party or parties have validly and irrevocably granted to me the right to grant the license stated above.
2.3Assignment of Company Inventions. Inventions assigned to Kiromic, or to a third party as directed by Kiromic pursuant to Section 2.6, are referred to in this Agreement as “Company Inventions.” Subject to Section 2.4 (Unassigned or Nonassignable Inventions) and except for Excluded Inventions set forth in Exhibit A and Other Inventions, I hereby assign to Kiromic all my right, title, and interest in and to any and all Inventions (and all Intellectual Property Rights with respect thereto) made, conceived, reduced to practice, or learned by me, either alone or with others, during the period of my employment by Company. To the extent required by applicable Copyright laws, I agree to assign in the future (when any copyrightable Inventions are first fixed in a tangible medium of expression) my Copyright rights in and to such Inventions. Any assignment of Company Inventions (and all Intellectual Property Rights with respect thereto) hereunder includes an assignment of all Moral Rights. To the extent such Moral
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Rights cannot be assigned to Kiromic and to the extent the following is allowed by the laws in any country where Moral Rights exist, I hereby unconditionally and irrevocably waive the enforcement of such Moral Rights, and all claims and causes of action of any kind against Company or related to Company’s customers, with respect to such rights. I further acknowledge and agree that neither my successors in interest nor legal heirs retain any Moral Rights in any Company Inventions (and any Intellectual Property Rights with respect thereto).
2.4Unassigned or Nonassignable Inventions. I recognize that this Agreement will not be deemed to require assignment of any Invention that I developed entirely on my own time without using Company’s equipment, supplies, facilities, trade secrets or Confidential Information, except for those Inventions that either (i) relate to Company’s actual or anticipated business, research or development, or (ii) result from or are connected with work performed by me for Company. In addition, this Agreement does not apply to any Invention which qualifies fully for protection from assignment to Company under any specifically applicable state law, regulation, rule or public policy (“Specific Inventions Law”).
2.5Obligation to Keep Company Informed. During the period of my employment and for one (1) year after termination of my employment, I will promptly and fully disclose to Company in writing all Inventions authored, conceived, or reduced to practice by me, either alone or jointly with others. In addition, I will promptly disclose to Company all patent applications filed by me or on my behalf within one (1) year after termination of employment. At the time of each such disclosure, I will advise Company in writing of any Inventions that I believe fully qualify for protection under the provisions of any applicable Specific Inventions Law; and I will at that time provide to Company in writing all evidence necessary to substantiate that belief. Company will keep in confidence and will not use for any purpose or disclose to third parties without my consent any Confidential Information disclosed in writing to Company pursuant to this Agreement relating to Inventions that qualify fully for protection under a Specific Inventions Law. I will preserve the confidentiality of any Invention that does not fully qualify for protection under a Specific Inventions Law.
2.6Government or Third Party. I agree that, as directed by Company, I will assign to a third party, including without limitation the United States, all my right, title, and interest in and to any particular Company Invention.
2.7Ownership of Work Product.
(a)I acknowledge that all original works of authorship which are made by me (solely or jointly with others) within the scope of my employment and which are protectable by Copyright are “works made for hire,” pursuant to United States Copyright Act (17 U.S.C., Section 101).
(b)I agree that Kiromic will exclusively own all work product that is made by me (solely or jointly with others) within the scope of my employment, and I hereby irrevocably and unconditionally assign to Kiromic all right, title, and interest worldwide in and to such work product. I understand and agree that I have no right to publish on, submit for publishing, or use for any publication any work product protected by this Section, except as necessary to perform services for Company.
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2.8Enforcement of Intellectual Property Rights and Assistance. I will assist Company in every proper way to obtain, and from time to time enforce, United States and foreign Intellectual Property Rights and Moral Rights relating to Company Inventions in any and all countries. To that end I will execute, verify and deliver such documents and perform such other acts (including appearances as a witness) as Company may reasonably request for use in applying for, obtaining, perfecting, evidencing, sustaining and enforcing such Intellectual Property Rights and the assignment thereof. In addition, I will execute, verify and deliver assignments of such Intellectual Property Rights to Kiromic or its designee, including the United States or any third party designated by Kiromic. My obligation to assist Company with respect to Intellectual Property Rights relating to such Company Inventions in any and all countries will continue beyond the termination of my employment, but Company will compensate me at a reasonable rate after my termination for the time actually spent by me at Company’s request on such assistance. In the event Company is unable for any reason, after reasonable effort, to secure my signature on any document needed in connection with the actions specified in this paragraph, I hereby irrevocably designate and appoint Company and its duly authorized officers and agents as my agent and attorney in fact, which appointment is coupled with an interest, to act for and in my behalf to execute, verify and file any such documents and to do all other lawfully permitted acts to further the purposes of the preceding paragraph with the same legal force and effect as if executed by me. I hereby waive and quitclaim to Company any and all claims, of any nature whatsoever, which I now or may hereafter have for infringement of any Intellectual Property Rights assigned under this Agreement to Kiromic.
2.9Incorporation of Software Code. I agree that I will not incorporate into any Company software or otherwise deliver to Company any software code licensed under the GNU General Public License or Lesser General Public License or any other license that, by its terms, requires or conditions the use or distribution of such code on the disclosure, licensing, or distribution of any source code owned or licensed by Company except in strict compliance with Company’s policies regarding the use of such software.
3.RECORDS. I agree to keep and maintain adequate and current records (in the form of notes, sketches, drawings and in any other form that is required by Company) of all Confidential Information developed by me and all Company Inventions made by me during the period of my employment at Company, which records will be available to and remain the sole property of Company at all times.
4.DUTY OF LOYALTY DURING EMPLOYMENT. I agree that during the period of my employment by Company I will not, without Company’s express written consent, directly or indirectly engage in any employment or business activity which is directly or indirectly competitive with, or would otherwise conflict with, my employment by Company.
5.NO SOLICITATION OF EMPLOYEES, CONSULTANTS, CONTRACTORS, OR CUSTOMERS OR POTENTIAL CUSTOMERS. I agree that during the period of my employment and for the one (1) year period after the date my employment ends for any reason, including but not limited to voluntary termination by me or involuntary termination by Company, I will not, as an officer, director, employee, consultant, owner, partner, or in any other capacity, either directly or through others, except on behalf of Company:
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5.1solicit, induce, encourage, or participate in soliciting, inducing or encouraging any person known to me to be an employee, consultant, or independent contractor of Company to terminate his or her relationship with Company, even if I did not initiate the discussion or seek out the contact;
5.2solicit, induce, encourage, or participate in soliciting, inducing, or encouraging any person known to me to be an employee, consultant, or independent contractor of Company to terminate his or her relationship with Company to render services to me or any other person or entity that researches, develops, markets, sells, performs or provides or is preparing to develop, market, sell, perform or provide Conflicting Services (as defined in Section 6 below);
5.3hire, employ, or engage in a business venture with as partners or owners or other joint capacity, or attempt to hire, employ, or engage in a business venture as partners or owners or other joint capacity, with any person then employed by Company or who has left the employment of Company within the preceding three (3) months to research, develop, market, sell, perform or provide Conflicting Services;
5.4 solicit, induce or attempt to induce any Customer or Potential Customer (as defined below), to terminate, diminish, or materially alter in a manner harmful to Company its relationship with Company;
5.5solicit or assist in the solicitation of any Customer or Potential Customer to induce or attempt to induce such Customer or Potential Customer to purchase or contract for any Conflicting Services; or
5.6perform, provide or attempt to perform or provide any Conflicting Services for a Customer or Potential Customer.
The parties agree that for purposes of this Agreement, a “Customer or Potential Customer” is any person or entity who or which, at any time during the one (1) year period prior to my contact with such person or entity as described in Sections 5.4 5.6 above if such contact occurs during my employment or, if such contact occurs following the termination of my employment, during the one (1) year period prior to the date my employment with Company ends: (i) contracted for, was billed for, or received from Company any product, service or process with which I worked directly or indirectly during my employment by Company or about which I acquired Confidential Information; or (ii) was in contact with me or in contact with any other employee, owner, or agent of Company, of which contact I was or should have been aware, concerning the sale or purchase of, or contract for, any product, service or process with which I worked directly or indirectly during my employment with Company or about which I acquired Confidential Information; or (iii) was solicited by Company in an effort in which I was involved or of which I was aware.
6.NON COMPETE PROVISION. I agree that for the one (1) year period after the date my employment ends for any reason, including but not limited to voluntary termination by me or involuntary termination by Company, I will not, directly or indirectly, as an officer, director, employee, consultant, owner, partner, or in any other capacity solicit, perform, or provide, or attempt to perform or provide Conflicting Services anywhere in the Restricted Territory (as
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defined below), nor will I assist another person to solicit, perform or provide or attempt to perform or provide Conflicting Services anywhere in the Restricted Territory.
The parties agree that for purposes of this Agreement, “Conflicting Services” means any product, service, or process or the research and development thereof, of any person or organization other than Company that directly competes with a product, service, or process, including the research and development thereof, of Company with which I worked directly or indirectly during my employment by Company or about which I acquired Confidential Information during my employment by Company.
The parties agree that for purposes of this Agreement, “Restricted Territory” means the one hundred (100) mile radius of any of the following locations: (i) any Company business location at which I have worked on a regular or occasional basis during the preceding year; (ii) my home if I work from home on a regular or occasional basis; (iii) any potential business location of Company under active consideration by Company to which I have traveled in connection with the consideration of that location; (iv) the primary business location of a Customer or Potential Customer; or (v) any business location of a Customer or Potential Customer where representatives of the Customer or Potential Customer with whom I have been in contact in the preceding year are based.
7.REASONABLENESS OF RESTRICTIONS.
7.1I agree that I have read this entire Agreement and understand it. I agree that this Agreement does not prevent me from earning a living or pursuing my career. I agree that the restrictions contained in this Agreement are reasonable, proper, and necessitated by Company’s legitimate business interests. I represent and agree that I am entering into this Agreement freely and with knowledge of its contents with the intent to be bound by the Agreement and the restrictions contained in it.
7.2In the event that a court finds this Agreement, or any of its restrictions, to be ambiguous, unenforceable, or invalid, I and Company agree that the court will read the Agreement as a whole and interpret the restriction(s) at issue to be enforceable and valid to the maximum extent allowed by law.
7.3If the court declines to enforce this Agreement in the manner provided in subsection 7.2, I and Company agree that this Agreement will be automatically modified to provide Company with the maximum protection of its business interests allowed by law and I agree to be bound by this Agreement as modified.
7.4Furthermore, the parties agree that the market for Company’s products is the entire United States. If, however, after applying the provisions of subsections 7.2 and 7.3, a court still decides that this Agreement or any of its restrictions is unenforceable for lack of reasonable geographic limitation and the Agreement or restriction(s) cannot otherwise be enforced, the parties hereby agree that the fifty (50) mile radius from any location at which I worked for Company on either a regular or occasional basis during the one (1) year immediately preceding termination of my employment with Company shall be the geographic limitation relevant to the contested restriction.
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8.NO CONFLICTING AGREEMENT OR OBLIGATION. I represent that my performance of all the terms of this Agreement and as an employee of Company does not and will not breach any agreement to keep in confidence information acquired by me in confidence or in trust prior to my employment by Company. I have not entered into, and I agree I will not enter into, any agreement either written or oral in conflict with this Agreement.
9.RETURN OF COMPANY PROPERTY. When I leave the employ of Company, I will deliver to Company any and all drawings, notes, memoranda, specifications, devices, formulas and documents, together with all copies thereof, and any other material containing or disclosing any Company Inventions, Third Party Information or Confidential Information of Company. I agree that I will not copy, delete, or alter any information contained upon my Company computer or Company equipment before I return it to Company. In addition, if I have used any personal computer, server, or e mail system to receive, store, review, prepare or transmit any Company information, including but not limited to, Confidential Information, I agree to provide Company with a computer useable copy of all such Confidential Information and then permanently delete and expunge such Confidential Information from those systems; and I agree to provide Company access to my system as reasonably requested to verify that the necessary copying and/or deletion is completed. I further agree that any property situated on Company’s premises and owned by Company, including disks and other storage media, filing cabinets or other work areas, is subject to inspection by Company’s personnel at any time with or without notice. Prior to leaving, I will cooperate with Company in attending an exit interview and completing and signing Company’s termination statement if required to do so by Company.
10.LEGAL AND EQUITABLE REMEDIES.
10.1I agree that it may be impossible to assess the damages caused by my violation of this Agreement or any of its terms. I agree that any threatened or actual violation of this Agreement or any of its terms will constitute immediate and irreparable injury to Company and Company will have the right to enforce this Agreement and any of its provisions by injunction, specific performance or other equitable relief, without bond and without prejudice to any other rights and remedies that Company may have for a breach or threatened breach of this Agreement.
10.2I agree that if Company is successful in whole or in part in any legal or equitable action against me under this Agreement, Company will be entitled to payment of all costs, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, from me.
10.3In the event Company enforces this Agreement through a court order, I agree that the restrictions of Sections 5 and 6 will remain in effect for a period of twelve (12) months from the effective date of the order enforcing the Agreement.
11.NOTICES. Any notices required or permitted under this Agreement will be given to Company at its headquarters location at the time notice is given, labeled “Attention Chief Operating Officer,” and to me at my address as listed on Company payroll, or at such other address as Company or I may designate by written notice to the other. Notice will be effective upon receipt or refusal of delivery. If delivered by certified or registered mail, notice will be considered to have been given five (5) business days after it was mailed, as evidenced by the
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postmark. If delivered by courier or express mail service, notice will be considered to have been given on the delivery date reflected by the courier or express mail service receipt.
12.PUBLICATION OF THIS AGREEMENT TO SUBSEQUENT EMPLOYER OR BUSINESS ASSOCIATES OF EMPLOYEE.
12.1If I am offered employment or the opportunity to enter into any business venture as owner, partner, consultant or other capacity while the restrictions described in Sections 5 and 6 of this Agreement are in effect I agree to inform my potential employer, partner, co-owner and/or others involved in managing the business with which I have an opportunity to be associated of my obligations under this Agreement and also agree to provide such person or persons with a copy of this Agreement.
12.2I agree to inform Company of all employment and business ventures which I enter into while the restrictions described in Sections 5 and 6 of this Agreement are in effect and I also authorize Company to provide copies of this Agreement to my employer, partner, co-owner and/or others involved in managing the business with which I am employed or associated and to make such persons aware of my obligations under this Agreement.
13.GENERAL PROVISIONS.
13.1Governing Law; Consent to Personal Jurisdiction. This Agreement will be governed by and construed according to the laws of the State of Texas as such laws are applied to agreements entered into and to be performed entirely within Houston between Houston residents. I hereby expressly consent to the personal jurisdiction and venue of the state and federal courts located in Houston for any lawsuit filed there against me by Company arising from or related to this Agreement.
13.2Severability. In case any one or more of the provisions, subsections, or sentences contained in this Agreement will, for any reason, be held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability will not affect the other provisions of this Agreement, and this Agreement will be construed as if such invalid, illegal or unenforceable provision had never been contained in this Agreement. If moreover, any one or more of the provisions contained in this Agreement will for any reason be held to be excessively broad as to duration, geographical scope, activity or subject, it will be construed by limiting and reducing it, so as to be enforceable to the extent compatible with the applicable law as it will then appear.
13.3Successors and Assigns. This Agreement is for my benefit and the benefit of Company, its successors, assigns, parent corporations, subsidiaries, affiliates, and purchasers, and will be binding upon my heirs, executors, administrators and other legal representatives.
13.4Survival. The provisions of this Agreement will survive the termination of my employment, regardless of the reason, and the assignment of this Agreement by Company to any successor in interest or other assignee.
13.5At-Will Employment; No Oral Agreements. The Company and I acknowledge and agree that this Agreement does not affect the ability of either party to terminate their
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employment relationship, which relationship, unless otherwise agreed to in writing signed by an authorized representative of the Company, may be terminated at any time, for any or no reason. No supervisor, manager or other Company representative has the authority to make any verbal promises, commitments, or statements of any kind regarding the Company’s policies, procedures or any other issues or terms of employment that are legally binding on the Company.
13.6Waiver. No waiver by Company of any breach of this Agreement will be a waiver of any preceding or succeeding breach. No waiver by Company of any right under this Agreement will be construed as a waiver of any other right. Company will not be required to give notice to enforce strict adherence to all terms of this Agreement.
13.7Export. I agree not to export, re-export, or transfer, directly or indirectly, any U.S. technical data acquired from Company or any products utilizing such data, in violation of the United States export laws or regulations.
13.8Advice of Counsel. I ACKNOWLEDGE THAT, IN EXECUTING THIS AGREEMENT, I HAVE HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO SEEK THE ADVICE OF INDEPENDENT LEGAL COUNSEL, AND I HAVE READ AND UNDERSTOOD ALL OF THE TERMS AND PROVISIONS OF THIS AGREEMENT. THIS AGREEMENT WILL NOT BE CONSTRUED AGAINST ANY PARTY BY REASON OF THE DRAFTING OR PREPARATION OF THIS AGREEMENT.
13.9Entire Agreement. The obligations pursuant to Sections 1 and 2 (except Subsections 2.4 and 2.7(a)) of this Agreement will apply to any time during which I was previously engaged, or am in the future engaged, by Company as a consultant if no other agreement governs nondisclosure and assignment of Inventions during such period. This Agreement is the final, complete and exclusive agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter of this Agreement and supersedes and merges all prior discussions between us. No modification of or amendment to this Agreement, nor any waiver of any rights under this Agreement, will be effective unless in writing and signed by the party to be charged. Any subsequent change or changes in my duties, salary or compensation will not affect the validity or scope of this Agreement.
This Agreement will be effective as of February 14, 2022.
I HAVE READ THIS AGREEMENT CAREFULLY AND UNDERSTAND ITS TERMS.
ACCEPTED AND AGREED TO: | ||||
KIROMIC BIOPHARMA INC. | ||||
/s/ Daniel Clark | By: | /s/ Pietro Bersani | ||
Daniel Clark | Name: Pietro Bersani | |||
Title: Interim Chief Executive Officer |
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Exhibit 10.5
KIROMIC BIOPHARMA, INC.
OFFICER INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT
This INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT (“Agreement”) is made as of February 14, 2022 by and between Kiromic Biopharma, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), and Dan Clark (“Indemnitee”). This Agreement supersedes and replaces any and all previous agreements between the Company and Indemnitee covering the subject matter of this Agreement, except this Agreement does not affect any prior agreements regarding the subject matter of this Agreement entered into in connection with Indemnitee’s role as a member of the Company’s Board of Directors (collectively, “Director Indemnification Agreements”), which shall remain in full force and effect pursuant to their terms.
RECITALS
WHEREAS, highly competent persons have become more reluctant to serve publicly held corporations as directors or officers or in other capacities unless they are provided with adequate protection through insurance or adequate indemnification against inordinate risks of claims and actions against them arising out of their service to and activities on behalf of the corporation;
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”) has determined that, in order to attract and retain qualified individuals, the Company will attempt to maintain on an ongoing basis, at its sole expense, liability insurance to protect persons serving the Company from certain liabilities. The By-Laws (the “By-Laws”) of the Company and the Certificate of Incorporation of the Company (“the Certificate of Incorporation”) require indemnification of the officers and directors of the Company. Indemnitee may also be entitled to indemnification pursuant to the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the “DGCL”). The By-Laws and the Certificate of Incorporation and the DGCL expressly provide that the indemnification provisions set forth therein are not exclusive, and thereby contemplate that contracts may be entered into between the Company and members of the board of directors, officers and other persons with respect to indemnification;
WHEREAS, the uncertainties relating to such insurance and to indemnification have increased the difficulty of attracting and retaining such persons;
WHEREAS, the Board has determined that the increased difficulty in attracting and retaining such persons is detrimental to the best interests of the Company and its stockholders and that the Company should act to assure such persons that there will be increased certainty of such protection in the future;
WHEREAS, it is reasonable, prudent and necessary for the Company to contractually obligate itself to indemnify, and to advance expenses on behalf of, such persons to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law so that they will serve or continue to serve the Company free from undue concern that they will not be so indemnified;
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WHEREAS, this Agreement is a supplement to and in furtherance of the By-Laws and the Certificate of Incorporation and any resolutions adopted pursuant thereto, and shall not be deemed a substitute therefor, nor to diminish or abrogate any rights of Indemnitee thereunder;
WHEREAS, Indemnitee does not regard the protection available under the By-Laws and insurance as adequate in the present circumstances, and may not be willing to serve as an officer or director without adequate protection, and the Company desires Indemnitee to serve in such capacity. Indemnitee is willing to serve, continue to serve and to take on additional service for or on behalf of the Company on the condition that he be so indemnified; and
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the covenants contained herein, the Company and Indemnitee do hereby covenant and agree as follows:
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For purposes of this Section 2(b), the following terms shall have the following meanings:
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Notwithstanding the foregoing, the term “Independent Counsel” shall not include any person who, under the applicable standards of professional conduct then prevailing, would have a conflict of interest in representing either the Company or Indemnitee in an action to determine Indemnitee’s rights under this Agreement. The Company agrees to pay the reasonable fees and expenses of the Independent Counsel referred to above and to fully indemnify such counsel against any and all Expenses, claims, liabilities and damages arising out of or relating to this Agreement or its engagement pursuant hereto.
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Kiromic Biopharma, Inc.
7707 Fannin, Suite 140
Houston, TX 77054
Attention: Chief Executive Officer
or to any other address as may have been furnished to Indemnitee by the Company.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Agreement to be signed as of the day and year first above written.
| ACCEPTED AND AGREED TO: KIROMIC BIOPHARMA INC. |
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/s/ Daniel Clark . Daniel Clark | By: /s/ Pietro Bersani |
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