RAYONIER ADVANCED MATERIALS INC. current report, 28 November 2014

Business Context and Reporting Period

This Form 8-K filing by Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc. is dated November 28, 2014. The report addresses significant changes in executive leadership, specifically the appointment of a new Chief Financial Officer and the resignation of the incumbent.

Key Financial Metrics

This filing does not contain financial performance data such as revenue, profit, cash flow, margins, debt, or liquidity. The document focuses exclusively on personnel changes and associated compensation arrangements.

Material Changes

  • Appointment: Frank A. Ruperto was appointed Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President, Finance and Strategy, effective November 28, 2014.
  • Resignation: Benson K. Woo, the current Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will resign effective November 30, 2014.
  • Compensation Structure: Mr. Ruperto's annual base salary is set at $380,000. He is eligible for a target cash bonus of 61% of his base salary and an equity award to be determined by the Compensation and Management Development Committee.
  • Severance: Mr. Ruperto receives enhanced severance protection equal to his annual base salary and target bonus if terminated without cause prior to March 31, 2016, subject to specific exclusions regarding the Executive Severance Pay Plan.

Guidance, Outlook, and Risks

The filing does not provide financial guidance, outlook, or management commentary on business operations. No specific risks or contingencies related to financial performance are disclosed in this document. The primary operational change is the transition of the CFO role.

Investor Verification Checklist

  • Verify the effective date of Benson K. Woo's resignation (November 30, 2014) and the interim coverage of CFO duties.
  • Confirm the specific terms of the equity award granted to Frank A. Ruperto, as the filing states the amount is to be determined by the committee.
  • Review the attached press release (Exhibit 99.1) for additional context on the leadership transition.
  • Check subsequent filings for the first financial results reported under the new CFO's tenure.