Business Context and Reporting Period
This Form 8-K Current Report was filed by Beyond Meat, Inc. on December 29, 2025, with the earliest event reported on the same date. The filing discloses the appointment of a new Principal Accounting Officer and details the associated compensatory arrangements.
Key Financial Metrics
The filing does not contain financial performance data such as revenue, profit, cash flow, margins, debt, or liquidity metrics. The document focuses exclusively on executive compensation and personnel changes.
Material Changes
The primary material change disclosed is the appointment of Tony Kalajian as the Company's Chief Accounting Officer and Principal Accounting Officer, effective January 12, 2026. Upon this appointment, Lubi Kutua will cease serving as interim Principal Accounting Officer but will continue in his roles as Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer.
Compensatory Arrangements and Management Commentary
The filing details the following compensation package for Mr. Kalajian:
- Base Salary: $325,000 annually.
- Discretionary Bonus: Target of 35% of base salary, pro-rated for fiscal year 2026.
- Sign-on Bonus: One-time cash payment of $35,000, subject to pro-rata repayment if employment ends within one year.
- Equity Awards (Subject to Committee Approval):
- Stock Options valued at $150,000, vesting over four years (25% cliff after 12 months, then monthly).
- Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) valued at $150,000, vesting over four years (25% cliff after 12 months, then quarterly).
- Indemnification: Mr. Kalajian will enter into an Indemnification Agreement covering expenses, judgments, fines, and settlement amounts arising from his service as an officer.
Mr. Kalajian brings prior experience as a Chief Accounting Officer for Calidi Biotherapeutics, Oncocyte Corporation, and Lineage Cell Therapeutics, as well as a Consulting CFO role at Quantem Healthcare.
Investor Verification Checklist
- Verify the approval status of the equity awards (options and RSUs) by the Human Capital Management and Compensation Committee.
- Confirm the exact grant date to determine the per-share exercise price for options and the share count for RSUs.
- Review the Company's equity plan to ensure sufficient shares are available for the proposed awards.
- Monitor the transition of duties from Lubi Kutua to Tony Kalajian to ensure continuity in financial reporting.