DEF 14A 1 a2015proxy.htm DEF 14A DEF 14A
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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Investors Bancorp, Inc.
  
 
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101 JFK Parkway
Short Hills, New Jersey 07078
April 14, 2016
Dear Fellow Stockholder:
You are cordially invited to attend the 2016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Investors Bancorp, Inc., which will be held at The Grand Summit Hotel, 570 Springfield Avenue, Summit, New Jersey 07901, on May 24, 2016, at 9:00 a.m., local time.
The business to be conducted at the Annual Meeting consists of the election of four directors, an advisory (non-binding) vote to approve the compensation paid to our Named Executive Officers and the ratification of the appointment of KPMG LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for the calendar year ending December 31, 2016. Your Board of Directors has determined that an affirmative vote on each of these matters is in the best interests of Investors Bancorp and its stockholders and unanimously recommends a vote “FOR” the election of each of the nominees for director, “FOR” approval on an advisory basis of executive compensation and “FOR” ratification of the appointment of KPMG LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2016.
Your vote is very important. Whether or not you plan to attend the Annual Meeting, please promptly submit your vote by Internet, telephone or mail, as applicable, to ensure that your shares are represented at the Annual Meeting.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, officers and employees of Investors Bancorp, Inc., we thank you for your continued support.
 
 
 
 
Sincerely,
 
/s/ Kevin Cummings
 
Kevin Cummings
 
President and Chief Executive Officer



Investors Bancorp, Inc.
101 JFK Parkway
Short Hills, New Jersey 07078
(973) 924-5100
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
To Be Held on May 24, 2016
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the 2016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Investors Bancorp, Inc. will be held at The Grand Summit Hotel, 570 Springfield Avenue, Summit, New Jersey 07901, on May 24, 2016, at 9:00 a.m., local time, to consider and vote upon the following matters:
 
 
1.
  
The election of four persons to serve as directors of Investors Bancorp, Inc., each for a three-year term, and until their successors are elected and qualified.
 
 
2.
 
An advisory (non-binding) vote to approve the compensation paid to our Named Executive Officers.
 
 
 
3.
  
The ratification of the appointment of KPMG LLP as the independent registered public accounting firm for Investors Bancorp, Inc. for the year ending December 31, 2016.
 
 
4.
  
The transaction of such other business as may properly come before the Annual Meeting, and any adjournment or postponement of the Annual Meeting.
The Board of Directors of Investors Bancorp, Inc. has fixed April 5, 2016 as the record date for determining the stockholders entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting and any adjournment or postponement of the Annual Meeting. Only stockholders of record at the close of business on that date are entitled to notice of and to vote at the Annual Meeting and any adjournment or postponement of the Annual Meeting.
The Board of Directors unanimously recommends that you vote “FOR” each of the nominees for director listed in the Proxy Statement, “FOR” an annual vote with respect to executive compensation and “FOR” the ratification of the appointment of KPMG LLP as the independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2016.

Whether or not you plan to attend the Annual Meeting, please promptly submit your vote by Internet, telephone or mail, as applicable, to ensure that your shares are represented at the Annual Meeting.

 
 
By Order of the Board of Directors
Investors Bancorp, Inc.
 
 
 
 
/s/ Patricia E. Brown
 
 
Patricia E. Brown
Corporate Secretary
Short Hills, New Jersey
April 14, 2016




Internet Availability of Proxy Materials
 
We are relying upon a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission rule that allows us to furnish proxy materials to stockholders over the Internet. As a result, beginning on or about April 14, 2016, we sent by mail a Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials containing instructions on how to access our proxy materials, including our Proxy Statement and Annual Report to Stockholders, over the Internet and how to vote. Internet availability of our proxy materials is designed to expedite receipt by stockholders and lower the cost and environmental impact of our Annual Meeting. However, if you received such a notice and would prefer to receive paper copies of our proxy materials, please follow the instructions included in the Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials.
 
If you hold our common stock through more than one account, you may receive multiple copies of these proxy materials and will have to follow the instructions for each in order to vote all of your shares of our common stock.
 
Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials
For the 2016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be Held on May 24, 2016:
Our Proxy Statement and 2015 Annual Report to Stockholders are available at
www.proxydocs.com/ISBC.





INVESTORS BANCORP, INC.
PROXY STATEMENT FOR THE
2016 ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
To Be Held on May 24, 2016
GENERAL INFORMATION
The board of directors of Investors Bancorp, Inc. (“Investors Bancorp” or the “Company”) is soliciting proxies for our 2016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, and any adjournment or postponement of the meeting (“Annual Meeting”). The Annual Meeting will be held on May 24, 2016 at 9:00 a.m., local time, at The Grand Summit Hotel, 570 Springfield Avenue, Summit, New Jersey.
 
A Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials is first being sent to stockholders of Investors Bancorp on or about April 14, 2016.
The Annual Meeting of Stockholders
 
 
 
 
 
Date, Time and Place
  
The Annual Meeting of Stockholders will be held at The Grand Summit Hotel, 570 Springfield Avenue, Summit, New Jersey 07901, on May 24, 2016, at 9:00 a.m., local time.
 
 
Record Date
  
April 5, 2016
 
 
Shares Entitled to Vote
  
323,405,503 shares of Investors Bancorp common stock were outstanding on the Record Date and are entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting.
 
 
Purpose of the Annual Meeting
  
To consider and vote on the election of four directors, the approval of the compensation paid to our Named Executive Officers and the ratification of KPMG LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2016.
 
 
Vote Required
  
Directors are elected by a plurality of votes cast, without regard to either broker non-votes or proxies as to which authority to vote for the nominees being proposed is "WITHHELD". The advisory vote to approve executive compensation and the ratification of KPMG LLP as the independent registered public accounting firm is determined by a majority of the votes cast, without regard to broker non-votes or proxies marked “ABSTAIN.” 
 
 
 
Your Board of Directors
Recommends You Vote in Favor of the Proposals
  
Your Board of Directors unanimously recommends that stockholders vote “FOR” each of the nominees for director listed in this Proxy Statement, “FOR” approval (on an advisory non-binding basis) of the compensation paid to our named executive officers and “FOR” the ratification of KPMG LLP as Investors Bancorp’s independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2016.
 
 
 
Investors Bancorp
  
Investors Bancorp, a Delaware corporation, is the bank holding company for Investors Bank, an FDIC-insured, New Jersey-chartered capital stock savings bank. Investors Bancorp had $20.89 billion in total assets and 140 full-service banking offices in New Jersey and New York at December 31, 2015. Investors Bancorp’s principal executive offices are located at 101 JFK Parkway, Short Hills, New Jersey 07078, and our telephone number is (973) 924-5100.




1


Who Can Vote
The Board of Directors has fixed April 5, 2016 as the record date for determining the stockholders entitled to receive notice of and to vote at the Annual Meeting. Accordingly, only holders of record of shares of Investors Bancorp common stock, par value $0.01 per share, at the close of business on such date will be entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting. On April 5, 2016, 323,405,503 shares of Investors Bancorp common stock were outstanding and held by approximately 19,000 holders of record. The presence, in person or by properly executed proxy, of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of Investors Bancorp common stock is necessary to constitute a quorum at the Annual Meeting.
How Many Votes You Have
Each holder of shares of Investors Bancorp common stock outstanding on April 5, 2016 will be entitled to one vote for each share held of record. However, Investors Bancorp’s certificate of incorporation provides that stockholders of record who beneficially own in excess of 10% of the then outstanding shares of common stock of Investors Bancorp are not entitled to vote any of the shares held in excess of that 10% limit. A person or entity is deemed to beneficially own shares that are owned by an affiliate of, as well as by any person acting in concert with, such person or entity.
Matters to Be Considered
The purpose of the Annual Meeting is to elect four directors, to approve the compensation paid to our Named Executive Officers on an advisory (non-binding) basis and to ratify the appointment of KPMG LLP as Investors Bancorp’s independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2016.
You may be asked to vote upon other matters that may properly be submitted to a vote at the Annual Meeting. We may adjourn or postpone the Annual Meeting for the purpose, among others, of allowing additional time to solicit proxies.
How to Vote

You may vote your shares:
 
 
In person at the Annual Meeting. All stockholders of record may vote in person at the Annual Meeting. Beneficial owners may vote in person if they have a legal proxy from their bank or broker.
 
 
 
By telephone or Internet (see the instructions at www.proxydocs.com/ISBC). Beneficial owners may also vote by telephone or Internet if their bank or broker makes those methods available, in which case the bank or broker will include the instructions with the proxy materials.
 
 
 
By written proxy. All stockholders of record can vote by written proxy card. If you received a printed copy of this Proxy Statement, you may vote by signing, dating and mailing the enclosed Proxy Card, or if you are a beneficial owner, you may request a voting instruction form from your bank or broker.
 
If you return an executed Proxy Card without marking your instructions, your executed Proxy Card will be voted “FOR” the election of the four nominees for director, “FOR” approval of the executive compensation paid to our named executive officers, and “FOR” the ratification of the appointment of KPMG LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2016.
 
Participants in Investors Bancorp Benefit Plans
 
If you are a participant in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan or 401(k) Plan, or any other benefit plans sponsored by us through which you own shares of our common stock, you will have received a Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials. Under the terms of these plans, the trustee or administrator votes all shares held by the plan, but each participant may direct the trustee or administrator how to vote the shares of our common stock allocated to his or her plan account. If you own shares through any of these plans and you do not vote by May 19, 2016, the respective plan trustees or administrators will vote your shares in accordance with the terms of the respective plans.
Quorum and Vote Required
The presence, in person or by properly executed proxy, of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of Investors Bancorp common stock is necessary to constitute a quorum at the Annual Meeting. Abstentions and broker non-votes will be counted solely for the purpose of determining whether a quorum is present. A proxy submitted by a broker that is not voted on certain matters is sometimes referred to as a broker non-vote.

2


Directors are elected by a plurality of votes cast, without regard to either broker non-votes or proxies as to which authority to vote for the nominees being proposed is “WITHHELD”. However, any nominee for director in an uncontested election who receives a greater number of votes "WITHHELD" from his or her election than votes "FOR" such election shall tender his or her resignation for consideration by the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee of the Board. The Committee shall recommend to the Board the action to be taken with respect to the resignation. Any Director who tenders his or her resignation pursuant to this provision shall not participate in the Committee's or the Board's deliberations as to whether to accept the resignation. Should this situation occur, the Board would publicly disclose its decision within 90 days of the certification of the election results. The advisory vote to approve the executive compensation paid to our Named Executive Officers and the ratification of the appointment of KPMG LLP as the independent registered public accounting firm is determined by a majority of the votes cast, without regard to broker non-votes or proxies marked “ABSTAIN”.
Revocability of Proxies
You may revoke your proxy at any time before the vote is taken at the Annual Meeting. You may revoke your proxy by:
submitting written notice of revocation to the Corporate Secretary of Investors Bancorp prior to the voting of such proxy;
submitting a properly executed proxy bearing a later date;
voting again by telephone or Internet (provided such vote is received on a timely basis); or
voting in person at the Annual Meeting; however, simply attending the Annual Meeting without voting will not revoke an earlier proxy.
Written notices of revocation and other communications regarding the revocation of your proxy should be addressed to:
Investors Bancorp, Inc.
101 JFK Parkway
Short Hills, New Jersey 07078
Attention:    Patricia E. Brown, Corporate Secretary
If your shares are held in street name, you should follow your broker’s instructions regarding the revocation of proxies.

Solicitation of Proxies
Investors Bancorp will bear the entire cost of soliciting proxies. In addition to solicitation of proxies by mail, Investors Bancorp will request that banks, brokers and other holders of record send proxies and proxy material to the beneficial owners of Investors Bancorp common stock and secure their voting instructions, if necessary. Investors Bancorp will reimburse such holders of record for their reasonable expenses in taking those actions. Laurel Hill Advisory Group, LLC will assist us in soliciting proxieis and we have agreed to pay them a fee of $7,000 plus reasonable expenses for their services. If necessary, Investors Bancorp may also use several of its regular employees, who will not be specially compensated, to solicit proxies from stockholders, personally or by telephone, facsimile or letter. In the event there are not sufficient votes for a quorum, or to approve or ratify any matter being presented at the time of this Annual Meeting, the Annual Meeting may be adjourned in order to permit the further solicitation of proxies.
Recommendation of the Board of Directors
Your Board of Directors unanimously recommends that you vote “FOR” each of the nominees for director listed in this Proxy Statement, “FOR” approval on a non-binding advisory basis of the executive compensation paid to our Named Executive Officers and “FOR” the ratification of KPMG LLP as Investors Bancorp’s independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2016.

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management
Persons and groups who beneficially own in excess of 5% of Investors Bancorp’s common stock are required to file certain reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) regarding such beneficial ownership. The following table sets forth, as of April 5, 2016, certain information as to the shares of Investors Bancorp common stock owned by persons who beneficially own more than five percent of Investors Bancorp’s issued and outstanding shares of common stock. We know of no persons, except as listed below, who beneficially owned more than 5% of the outstanding shares of Investors Bancorp common stock as of April 5, 2016. For purposes of the following table and the table included under the heading “Directors and Executive Officers,” and in accordance with Rule 13d-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, a person is deemed to be the beneficial owner of any shares of common stock (i) over which he or she has, or shares, directly or indirectly, voting or investment power, or (ii) as to which he or she has the right to acquire beneficial ownership at any time within 60 days after April 5, 2016.

3



Principal Stockholders
Name and Address of Beneficial Owner
 
Number of Shares Owned and
Nature of Beneficial  Ownership
 
Percent of Shares of
Common Stock Outstanding (1)
Blue Harbour Group, LP 646 Steamboat Road Greenwich CT 06830
 
28,378,728  (2)
 
8.77
%
FMR LLC 245 Summer Street, Boston MA 02210
 
22,915,526 (3)
 
7.09
%
The Vanguard Group 100 Vanguard Blvd. Malvern, PA 19355
 
22,442,715 (4)
 
6.94
%
BlackRock, Inc. 55 East 52nd Street New York, NY 10022
 
19,558,598  (5)
 
6.05
%
 
(1) Based on 323,405,503 shares of Investors Bancorp common stock outstanding as of April 5, 2016.
(2) Based on a Schedule 13D/A filed with the SEC on August 13, 2015.
(3) Based on a Schedule 13G filed with the SEC on February 12, 2016.
(4) Based on a Schedule 13G filed with the SEC on February 10, 2016.
(5) Based on a Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC on January 22, 2016.





4



Directors and Executive Officers
The following table sets forth information about shares of Investors Bancorp common stock owned by each nominee for election as director, each incumbent director, each Named Executive Officer identified in the summary compensation table included elsewhere in this Proxy Statement, and all nominees, incumbent directors and executive officers as a group, as of April 5, 2016.
 
Name
 
Position(s) held
with
Investors Bancorp
Inc. and/or
Investors Bank
 
Shares
Owned
Directly and
  Indirectly (1)  
 
Options
  Exercisable  
within 60
days
 
Beneficial
  Ownership  
 
  Percent of  
Class
 
  Unvested Stock  
Awards
Included  in
Beneficial
Ownership
NOMINEES
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Robert C. Albanese
 
Director
 
171,988

 
35,302

 
207,290

 
*
 
100,000

Domenick A. Cama
 
Director, Senior Executive
Vice President and Chief
Operating Officer
 
1,374,694

 
1,020,000

 
2,394,694

 
*
 
600,000

James J. Garibaldi
 
Director
 
112,550

 

 
112,550

 
*
 
100,000

James H. Ward III
 
Director
 
442,185

 

 
442,185

 
*
 
100,000

INCUMBENT DIRECTORS
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dennis M. Bone
 
Director
 
172,744

 

 
172,744

 
*
 
100,000

Doreen R. Byrnes
 
Director
 
262,638

 

 
262,638

 
*
 
100,000

William V. Cosgrove
 
Director
 
157,450

 
255,000

 
412,450

 
*
 
100,000

Brendan J. Dugan
 
Director
 
120,710

 

 
120,710

 
*
 
100,000

Robert M. Cashill
 
Chairman
 
781,902

 
292,500

 
1,074,402

 
*
 
150,000

Kevin Cummings
 
Director, President and
Chief Executive Officer
 
1,770,344

 
1,147,500

 
2,917,844

 
*
 
750,000

Brian D. Dittenhafer
 
Director
 
391,557

 
124,529

 
516,086

 
*
 
150,000

Michele N. Siekerka
 
Director
 
182,268

 
70,606

 
252,874

 
*
 
100,000

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS WHO ARE NOT DIRECTORS
 
 
Richard S. Spengler
 
Executive Vice
President and Chief
Lending Officer
 
824,466

 
110,000

 
934,466

 
*
 
400,000

Paul Kalamaras
 
Executive Vice
President and Chief Retail Banking Officer
 
756,945

 
182,000

 
938,945

 
*
 
400,000

Sean Burke (3)
 
Senior Vice
President and Chief
Financial Officer
 
350,000

 

 
350,000

 
*
 
350,000

All directors and executive officers as a group(2)
 
7,872,441

 
3,237,437

 
11,109,878

 
3.44
%
 
3,600,000

 
*
Less than 1%
 
(1)
Unless otherwise indicated, each person effectively exercises sole, or shared with spouse, voting and dispositive power as to the shares reported.
(2)
Includes 111,087 shares of common stock allocated to the accounts of executive officers under the Investors Bank Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”) and excludes the remaining 17,465,304 shares of common stock of which 13,263,545 are unallocated and held for the future benefit of all employee participants. Under the terms of the ESOP, shares of common stock allocated to the account of employees are voted in accordance with the instructions of the respective employees. Unallocated shares are voted by the ESOP Trustee in the same proportion as the vote obtained from participants on allocated shares. Includes 52,924 shares of common stock held through the Company's 401(k) Plan.
(3)
Effective January 26, 2015, Sean Burke was appointed Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Investors Bancorp.



5




PROPOSAL I—ELECTION OF INVESTORS BANCORP DIRECTORS
General
Investors Bancorp’s Board of Directors currently consists of 12 members and is divided into three classes, with one class of directors elected each year. Each of the 12 members of the Board of Directors also serves as a director of Investors Bank. The current Bylaws of Investors Bancorp provide that a director shall retire from the Board at the annual meeting of the Board immediately following the year in which the director attains age 75.
Four directors will be elected at the Annual Meeting. On the recommendation of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, the Board of Directors has nominated Robert Albanese, Domenick Cama, James Garibaldi and James Ward III for election as directors, each of whom has agreed to serve if so elected. All will serve until their respective successors have been elected and qualified.
Except as indicated herein, there are no arrangements or understandings between any nominee and any other person pursuant to which any such nominee was selected. Unless authority to vote for the nominees is withheld, it is intended that the shares represented by your Proxy Card, if executed and returned, will be voted “FOR” the election of all nominees.
In the event that any nominee is unable or declines to serve, the persons named in the Proxy Card as proxies will vote with respect to a substitute nominee designated by Investors Bancorp’s current Board of Directors. At this time, the Board of Directors knows of no reason why any of the nominees would be unable or would decline to serve, if elected.

INVESTORS BANCORP’S BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE “FOR”
THE ELECTION OF THE NOMINEES FOR DIRECTORS NAMED IN THIS PROXY
STATEMENT.

6



Directors and Executive Officers of Investors Bancorp
The following table states our directors’ names, their ages as of April 5, 2016, and the years when they began serving as directors of Investors Bancorp and when their current term expires.
 
Name
 
 
Position(s) Held With Investors Bancorp
 
 
Age
 
 
Director
Since
 
 
Current Term
Expires
 
NOMINEES
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Robert C. Albanese
 
Director
 
68
 
2013
 
2016
Domenick A. Cama
 
Director, Senior Executive
Vice President and Chief
Operating Officer
 
59
 
2011
 
2016
James J. Garibaldi
 
Director
 
64
 
2012
 
2016
James H. Ward III
 
Director
 
67
 
2009
 
2016
INCUMBENT DIRECTORS
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dennis M. Bone
 
Director
 
64
 
2013
 
2017
Doreen R. Byrnes
 
Director
 
66
 
2002
 
2017
William V. Cosgrove
 
Director
 
68
 
2011
 
2017
Brendan J. Dugan
 
Director
 
68
 
2013
 
2017
Robert M. Cashill
 
Chairman
 
73
 
1998
 
2018
Kevin Cummings
 
Director, President and
Chief Executive Officer
 
61
 
2008
 
2018
Brian D. Dittenhafer
 
Lead Director
 
73
 
1997
 
2018
Michele N. Siekerka
 
Director
 
51
 
2013
 
2018
 
The following information describes the business experience for each of Investors Bancorp's directors and executive officers.
Nominees for Director
Term to Expire 2019
Robert C. Albanese was appointed to the Board of Directors of Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank on December 6, 2013 upon the consummation of Investors Bancorp’s acquisition of Roma Financial Corporation, where he served as a director. He was the President and Chief Executive Officer of Pentegra Retirement Services, located in White Plains, New York, from 2007 to 2013 following an eleven year tenure on Pentegra’s Board of Directors. Prior to his employment with Pentegra, he served as Regional Director of the Northeast Region of the Office of Thrift Supervision from 1996 through 2007 where he was directly responsible for the oversight of all federally chartered institutions and their holding companies located in the twelve states comprising the Northeast Region. Prior to 1996, he served in various other capacities with the Office of Thrift Supervision and its predecessor, the Federal Home Loan Bank Board.
Mr. Albanese has also been involved in many civic activities, most prominently as past President and Treasurer of the Waldwick, New Jersey Jaycees. He presently sits on the Board of Trustees of the Bridge Academy, a school for children with learning disabilities located in Lawrenceville, New Jersey. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee considers Mr. Albanese's extensive regulatory experience with particular expertise in financial analysis, enterprise risk analysis and audit to be assets to the Board of Directors.
Domenick A. Cama was appointed to the Board of Directors of Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank in January 2011. He became Chief Operating Officer of Investors Bank effective January 1, 2008 and was appointed Senior Executive Vice President in January of 2010. Prior to this appointment, Mr. Cama had served as Chief Financial Officer since April 2003. Prior to joining Investors Bank, Mr. Cama was employed for 13 years by the FHLB where he served as Vice President and Director of Sales. Mr. Cama is also a member of the Board of Directors for the Raritan Bay Medical Center Foundation and the Madison YMCA. Mr. Cama holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and a Master’s degree in Finance from Pace University.
Mr. Cama has extensive knowledge of the banking industry and local markets served by Investors Bank. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee considers Mr. Cama’s experience, leadership, financial expertise and strong economics background to be unique assets for the Board of Directors.

7



James J. Garibaldi was appointed to the Board of Directors of Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank in 2012. He is currently the Chief Executive Officer of The Garibaldi Group, a corporate real estate services firm headquartered in Chatham, New Jersey. Mr. Garibaldi joined The Garibaldi Group in 1974. In 1986, Mr. Garibaldi assumed the role of managing partner of the firm and in 1997 he became its Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Garibaldi currently serves on CORFAC International’s International Committee. He is also a member of the Board of Trustees for the Cancer Hope Network, a member of the Board of Trustees of Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Morris, Bergen, Passaic and Sussex, Inc., on the Finance Council for the Diocese of Paterson, and a member of the Advisory Board for the Community Soup Kitchen in Morristown. Mr. Garibaldi has a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Scranton.
Mr. Garibaldi’s extensive real estate experience and knowledge of the local real estate market bring valuable expertise to the Board of Directors. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee considers Mr. Garibaldi’s leadership skills and real estate knowledge to be assets to the Board of Directors.
James H. Ward III was appointed to the Board of Directors of Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank in June 2009 upon consummation of Investors Bancorp’s acquisition of American Bancorp of New Jersey, Inc. From 1998 to 2000, he was the majority stockholder and Chief Operating Officer of Rylyn Group, which operated a restaurant in Indianapolis, Indiana. Prior to that, he was the majority stockholder and Chief Operating Officer of Ward and Company, an insurance agency in Springfield, New Jersey, where he was employed from 1968 to 1998. He is now a retired investor. In 2009 he was awarded the Certificate of Director Education by the National Association of Corporate Directors, where he is a member and continues his education.
Mr. Ward brings a wide range of management experience and business knowledge that provides a valuable resource to the Board of Directors. These skills and experience combined with the unique perspective Mr. Ward brings from his background as an entrepreneur provide skills and experience which the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee considers to be valuable assets for the Board of Directors.
Continuing Directors
Term to Expire 2017
Dennis M. Bone was appointed to the Board of Directors of Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank on December 6, 2013 upon the consummation of Investors Bancorp’s acquisition of Roma Financial Corporation, where he served as a director. Mr. Bone is the Director of the Feliciano Center for Entrepreneurship at Montclair State University. Previously, Mr. Bone served as President of Verizon New Jersey. Mr. Bone has over 33 years’ experience with Verizon and was responsible for Verizon’s corporate interests in New Jersey. Active in his community, Mr. Bone is on the Board of Trustees of the New Jersey Institute of Technology, the New Jersey Center for Teaching and Learning, the Citizens Campaign and the Newark Alliance. In addition, Mr. Bone is Chairman of the New Jersey State Employment and training Commission, and was the founding Chairman of Choose New Jersey. Mr. Bone previously served on the board of trustees of the Liberty Science Center (12 years), the Board of Directors of the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (12 years), the Aviation Research Technology Park (2 years), and the New Jersey Utilities Association (12 years). The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee believes that Mr. Bone's experience, which brings a broader corporate perspective, and his extensive community involvement to be assets to the Board of Directors.
Doreen R. Byrnes was elected to the Board of Directors of Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank in January 2002. Ms. Byrnes retired in 2007 after an employment career in the area of human resources, including having served as Executive Vice President of Human Resources. Ms. Byrnes has a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and a Master’s degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University. She is a member of National Association of Corporate Directors and was awarded the Certificate of Director Education in 2010.
Ms. Byrnes has extensive experience with executive recruitment, retention and compensation as well as a strong understanding of the employees and markets served by Investors Bank. This experience provides a unique perspective to the Board of Directors. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee considers Ms. Byrnes’ skills and experience to be assets to the Board of Directors.
William V. Cosgrove was first appointed to the Board of Directors of Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank in October 2011. Mr. Cosgrove had been employed as a non Section 16 officer of Investors Bank since Investors Bancorp’s acquisition of Summit Federal Bankshares, Inc. and Summit Federal Savings Bank in June 2008 through his retirement from Investors Bank on October 1, 2011. Mr. Cosgrove was President and Chief Executive Officer of Summit Federal Savings Bank from 2003 until the acquisition of Summit Federal Savings Bank by Investors Bank. Mr. Cosgrove has over 40 years of experience in banking and has served as president of the N.J. Council of Federal Savings Institutions, and the Union County Savings League. In addition he served on the

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Board of Governors of the New Jersey Savings League. Mr. Cosgrove is a member of the National Association of Corporate Directors, where he continues his education.
Mr. Cosgrove’s extensive experience in the banking industry and local markets bring valuable expertise to the Board of Directors. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee considers Mr. Cosgrove’s financial and leadership skills and his experience and knowledge of the financial services industry in general to be assets to the Board of Directors.
Brendan J. Dugan was appointed to the Board of Directors of Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank on August 27, 2013. Mr. Dugan has 40 years of commercial banking and lending experience, having previously served as Chairman and CEO of Sovereign Bank’s Metro NY/NJ division. He has also served as President of National Westminster Bank and European American Bank. Mr. Dugan is currently the President of St. Francis College in Brooklyn, NY and had served as Chairman of the College’s Board of Trustees. Mr. Dugan is committed to community involvement and serves on various boards within the community. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee considers Mr. Dugan's banking experience and expertise to be assets to the Board of Directors.
Term to Expire 2018
Robert M. Cashill was first elected to the Board of Directors of Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank in February 1998 and has served as Chairman since January 2010. Mr. Cashill served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Investors Bank from December 2002 until his retirement on December 31, 2007. During this time Mr. Cashill was an integral part of the conversion of the former savings bank into the mutual holding company structure raising $500 million in the process. Prior to joining Investors Bank, Mr. Cashill was employed as Vice President Institutional Sales by Salomon Smith Barney from 1977 to 1998, and at Hornblower, Weeks, Hemphill, Noyes from 1966 to 1977. For much of that time he specialized in providing investment analysis and asset/liability management advice to thrift institutions and was, therefore, familiar with thrift recapitalizations and debt issuance. Mr. Cashill has a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from Saint Peter’s College. He is a member of the National Association of Corporate Directors, where he continues his education and served on the boards of both the New Jersey League of Savings Institutions and the Paper Mill Playhouse.
Mr. Cashill’s leadership skills, extensive background in the financial services industry and his experience working for Investors Bank brings knowledge of industry management and local markets to the Board of Directors. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee considers Mr. Cashill’s financial and leadership skills and his experience and knowledge of the financial services industry in general and of Investors Bancorp in particular to be significant assets for the Board of Directors.
Kevin Cummings was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank effective January 1, 2008 and was also appointed to serve on the Board of Directors of Investors Bank at that time. He previously served as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Investors Bank since July 2003. Prior to joining Investors Bank, Mr. Cummings had a 26-year career with the independent accounting firm of KPMG LLP, where he had been partner for 14 years. Immediately prior to joining Investors Bank, he was an audit partner in KPMG’s Financial Services practice in their New York City office and lead partner on a major commercial banking client. Mr. Cummings also worked in the New Jersey community bank practice for over 20 years. Mr. Cummings has a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Middlebury College and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Rutgers University. He is the former Chairman of the Board and current member of the New Jersey Bankers Association and sits on the Board of Trustees of the Scholarship Fund for Inner-City Children, Liberty Science Center and the Visiting Nurse Assn. Health Group and is also a member of the Development Leadership Council of Morris Habitat for Humanity. In addition, Mr. Cummings is a member of the Board of the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York, the Independent College Fund of New Jersey, the All Stars Project of New Jersey and the Community Foundation of New Jersey.
Mr. Cummings is a certified public accountant and his background in public accounting enhances the board of directors’ oversight of financial reporting and disclosure issues. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee considers Mr. Cummings’ leadership skills and knowledge of accounting, auditing and corporate governance in the financial services industry to be assets to the Board of Directors.
Brian D. Dittenhafer was first elected to the Board of Directors of Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank in 1997. He served as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York from 1985 until his retirement in 1992. Mr. Dittenhafer joined the FHLB in 1976 where he also served as Vice President and Chief Economist, Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President. Previously, he was employed as a Business Economist at the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta from 1971 to 1976. From 1992 to 1995, Mr. Dittenhafer served as President and Chief Financial Officer of Collective Federal Savings Bank and as Chairman of the Resolution Funding Corporation from 1989 to 1992. From 1995 to 2007 Mr. Dittenhafer was Chairman of MBD Management Company. Mr. Dittenhafer has a Bachelor of Arts from Ursinus College and a Master of Arts in Economics from Temple University where he subsequently taught economics. He was named to Omicron Delta Epsilon, the national honor

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society in Economics. Mr. Dittenhafer is a member of the National Association for Business Economics and the National Association of Corporate Directors. In 2007 he was awarded the Certificate of Director Education by the National Association of Corporate Directors, where he continues his education and has achieved Director Professional designation. In 2012, Mr. Dittenhafer achieved the status of the National Association of Corporate Directors Governance Fellow.
Mr. Dittenhafer brings extensive knowledge of the banking industry and a strong background in economics to the Board of Directors. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee considers Mr. Dittenhafer’s experience, leadership, financial expertise and strong economics background to be unique assets for the Board of Directors.
Michele N. Siekerka was appointed to the Board of Directors of Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank on December 6, 2013 upon the consummation of Investors Bancorp’s acquisition of Roma Financial Corporation where she served as a director. Ms. Siekerka is a licensed attorney and President of New Jersey Business and Industry Association. From 2010 to 2014, Ms. Siekerka was Acting Deputy Commissioner, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. From 2004 to 2010, she served as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Mercer Regional Chamber of Commerce. From 2000 to 2004, Ms. Siekerka was employed by AAA Mid-Atlantic, first as vice president of human resources and then as senior counsel. Active in numerous civic organizations, Ms. Siekerka is a member of, among other organizations, the Mercer County Community College Foundation, the Roma Bank Community Foundation and the YWCA of Trenton. Ms. Siekerka is on the Regional Advisory Board for AAA Mid-Atlantic and a former member of the Robbinsville Township Board of Education. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee considers Ms. Siekerka’s legal and government affairs expertise and market knowledge to be assets to the Board of Directors.
Executive Officers of the Bank Who Are Not Also Directors
Richard S. Spengler, age 54, was appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer of Investors Bank effective January 1, 2008. Mr. Spengler began working for Investors Bank in September 2004 as Senior Vice President. Prior to joining Investors Bank, Mr. Spengler had a 21-year career with First Savings Bank, Woodbridge, New Jersey where he served as Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer from 1999 to 2004. Mr. Spengler holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Rutgers University.
Paul Kalamaras, age 57, was appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Retail Banking Officer of Investors Bank in January of 2010. Mr. Kalamaras joined Investors Bank as a Senior Vice President and Director of Retail Banking in August 2008. Before joining Investors, Mr. Kalamaras was Executive Vice President of Millennium bcp bank, N.A., in Newark, New Jersey where he was responsible for the retail, commercial banking and treasury lines of business. He served on the bank’s Executive Committee and was a member of the Board of Directors. Mr. Kalamaras previously was President and CEO of The Barré Company, a manufacturer of precision engineered metal components for the electronics and telecommunications industry. Mr. Kalamaras is a member of, among other organizations, the Board of Directors of New Jersey State Chamber of Commerce, Board of Trustees, New Jersey SEEDS and Board of Directors New Jersey Region of the American Red Cross. Earlier, Mr. Kalamaras was Executive Vice President at Summit Bank, where he was responsible for the retail network and business banking. Mr. Kalamaras holds a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from the University of Notre Dame.
Sean Burke, age 44, was appointed Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Investors Bank effective January 26, 2015. Prior to joining Investors Bank, Mr. Burke was the Managing Director and Head of U.S. Depository Institutions for RBC Capital Markets in New York. Mr. Burke has approximately 20 years of experience working with financial institutions. Mr. Burke earned bachelor's degrees in accounting and computer science from the University of Notre Dame and earned an MBA from Northwestern University's J.L. Kellogg Graduate School of Management. Prior to Northwestern, Mr. Burke spent three years with Ernst & Young in their financial services audit practice.


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Corporate Governance Matters
Investors Bancorp is committed to maintaining sound corporate governance guidelines and very high standards of ethical conduct and is in compliance with applicable corporate governance laws and regulations.
Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance
Investors Bancorp’s common stock is registered with the SEC pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act. The executive officers and directors of Investors Bancorp, and beneficial owners of greater than 10% of Investors Bancorp’s common stock, are required to file reports on Forms 3, 4 and 5 with the SEC disclosing beneficial ownership and changes in beneficial ownership of Investors Bancorp’s common stock. The SEC rules require disclosure in Investors Bancorp’s Proxy Statement or Annual Report on Form 10-K of the failure of an executive officer, director or 10% beneficial owner of Investors Bancorp’s common stock to file a Form 3, 4, or 5 on a timely basis. Based on Investors Bancorp’s review of ownership reports and confirmations by executive officers and directors, Investors Bancorp believes that, during 2015, its officers, directors and beneficial owners of greater than 10% of its common stock timely filed all required reports.
Board of Directors Meetings and Committees
The Boards of Directors of Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank meet monthly, or more often as may be necessary. The Board of Directors of Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank each met 12 times during 2015. The Board of Directors of Investors Bancorp currently maintains four standing committees: the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, the Audit Committee, the Compensation and Benefits Committee and the Risk Oversight Committee.
No director attended fewer than 75% of the total number of Board meetings held by the Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank Board of Directors and all committees of the Boards on which they served (during the period they served) during 2015. Investors Bancorp does not have a specific policy regarding attendance at the annual meeting of stockholders. However, all of Investors Bancorp’s directors attended the annual meeting of stockholders held on June 9, 2015.
Director Independence
A majority of the Board of Directors and each member of the Compensation and Benefits, Nominating and Corporate Governance and Audit Committees are independent, as affirmatively determined by the Board of Directors consistent with the listing rules of the Nasdaq Stock Market.
The Board of Directors conducts an annual review of director independence for all current nominees for election as directors and all continuing directors. In connection with this review, the Board of Directors considers all relevant facts and circumstances relating to relationships that each director, his or her immediate family members and their respective related interests has with Investors Bancorp and its subsidiaries.
 As a result of this review, the Board of Directors affirmatively determined that Messrs. Cashill, Albanese, Cosgrove, Bone, Dittenhafer, Dugan, Ward and Mses. Byrnes and Siekerka, are independent as defined in the Nasdaq corporate governance listing rules. The Board of Directors determined that Messrs. Cummings and Cama are not independent as they are Investors Bank employees. Mr. Garibaldi is not independent due to commercial real estate brokerage services provided by his company to Investors Bank, the subsidiary of Investors Bancorp.
In establishing its structure and appointing a Lead Independent Director, Investors Bancorp has also taken into account the extent to which a director who satisfies independence standards under the listing rules of the Nasdaq Stock Market would also qualify as an independent outside director (as opposed to an affiliated outside director) under the standards set forth by Institutional Shareholder Services ("ISS").
Board Leadership Structure
Currently, the positions of Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer are held by different persons, which the Board believes is appropriate under present circumstances. However, the Board recognizes that its optimal leadership structure can change over time to reflect our Company’s evolving needs, strategy, and operating environment; changes in our Board’s composition and leadership needs; and other factors, including the perspectives of stockholders and other stakeholders. The Board of Directors believes that management accountability and the Board’s independence from management is best served by maintaining a majority of independent directors and where required maintaining standing board committees comprised exclusively of independent members.


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In addition, the Board’s Corporate Governance Guidelines allow for the appointment of a Lead Independent Director, who shall be an “independent outside director”, which is defined as an independent director who is not considered an “affiliated outside director” under ISS standards. When appointed by the Board, the Lead Independent Director has the following duties:
Preside at all meetings of the independent outside directors and independent directors;
Coordinate as necessary Investors Bancorp related activities of the independent outside directors;
Facilitate communications between the Chairman of the Board, the CEO and the independent outside directors;
Consult as needed with the Chairman of the Board with respect to meeting agendas and schedules, as well as Board materials, prior to Board meetings; and
Consult with the Chairman of the Board to assure that appropriate topics are being discussed with sufficient time allocated for each.
 

     The Lead Independent Director has the authority to call meetings of the independent outside directors. Pursuant to the recommendation of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, the Board has appointed Brian D. Dittenhafer as Lead Director.
Corporate Governance Guidelines
The Board of Directors has adopted Corporate Governance Guidelines, which are posted on the “Governance Documents” section of the “Investor Relations” page of Investors Bank’s website at www.myinvestorsbank.com. The Corporate Governance Guidelines cover the general operating policies and procedures followed by the Board of Directors including, among other things:
Mission of the Board;
Director responsibilities and qualifications;
Board nominating procedures and election criteria;
Stock ownership policies, Board size, director independence; and
Director compensation, education and code of ethics.
The Corporate Governance Guidelines provide for the independent directors of the Board of Directors to meet in regularly scheduled executive sessions at least quarterly. During 2015, four executive sessions were conducted by the independent directors.
Anti-Hedging Policy
The Corporate Governance Guidelines include an anti-hedging policy, which prohibits directors and executive officers from engaging in or effecting any transaction designed to hedge or offset the economic risk of owning shares of Investors Bancorp common stock. Accordingly, any hedging, derivative or other equivalent transaction that is specifically designed to reduce or limit the extent to which declines in the trading price of Investors Bancorp common stock would affect the value of the shares of Investors Bancorp common stock owned by an executive officer or director is prohibited. Cashless exercises of employee stock options are not deemed short sales and are not prohibited. This policy does not prohibit transactions in the stock of other companies.
Prohibition on Pledging Securities
Company policy prohibits directors and executive officers from holding Company securities in a margin account or pledging Company securities as collateral for any other loan. An exception to this prohibition may be granted, in the sole discretion of the Board and in limited circumstances, after giving consideration to, among other factors, the number of shares proposed to be pledged as a percentage of the director’s or executive officer’s total shares held. No shares are currently pledged by a director or executive officer.
Stock Ownership Requirements
The Board of Directors believes that it is in the best interest of Investors Bancorp and its stockholders to align the financial interests of its executives and directors with those of stockholders. Accordingly, the Corporate Governance Guidelines include Stock Ownership Guidelines for Named Executive Officers and Directors of Investors Bancorp that require the following minimum investment in Investors Bancorp common stock:

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CEO:
 
A number of shares having a market value equal to five times (5.0x) annual base salary
Other Named Executive Officers:
 
A number of shares having a market value equal to three times (3.0x) annual base salary
Directors:
 
25,000 shares
Stock holdings are expected to be achieved within five (5) years of either the implementation of the Ownership Guidelines or the starting date of the individual, whichever is later. Stock ownership for Named Executive Officer and Directors is reviewed as of the last day of each calendar quarter.
Majority Voting Policy
The Board of Directors believes that each director of the Company should have the confidence and support of the Company's stockholders and, to this end, the Board has adopted a majority voting policy, which is utilized for the election of any director at any meeting of stockholders for uncontested elections and shall not be applicable for contested elections. Pursuant to this policy, any incumbent director nominee in an uncontested election who receives a greater number of votes "WITHHELD" than votes cast "FOR" at the stockholders meeting shall promptly tender his or her proposed resignation following certification of the stockholder vote.
The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee will promptly consider the resignation and will recommend to the Board whether to accept the resignation or to take other action, including rejecting the resignation and addressing any apparent underlying causes of the failure of the director to obtain a majority of votes "FOR" such nominee. The Board will act on the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee's recommendation no later than at its first regularly scheduled meeting following the committee's deliberation and recommendation, but in any case, no later than 90 days following the certification of the stockholder vote. The Company will publicly disclose the Board's decision and process in a periodic or current report filed with or furnished with to the SEC within 90 days following the certification of the stockholder vote. Any director who tenders his or her resignation will not participate in the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee's or full Board's deliberations, considerations or actions regarding whether or not to accept the resignation or take any other related action.
Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee
The current members of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee are: Ms. Byrnes (Chair), Messrs. Bone, Cosgrove, Ward, Dittenhafer and Ms. Siekerka. Each member of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee is considered independent as defined in the Nasdaq corporate governance listing rules. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee’s Charter and Corporate Governance Guidelines are posted on the “Governance Documents” section of the “Investor Relations” page of the Investors Bank’s website at www.myinvestorsbank.com. The Committee met four times during 2015.

As noted in the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee Charter, the purpose of the committee is to assist the Board in identifying individuals to become Board members, determine the size and composition of the Board and its committees, monitor Board effectiveness and implement Corporate Governance Guidelines.
In furtherance of this purpose, this committee, among other things, shall:
Lead the search for individuals qualified to become members of the Board of Directors and develop criteria (such as independence, experience relevant to the needs of Investors Bancorp, leadership qualities, diversity, stock ownership) for board membership;
Make recommendations to the Board concerning Board nominees and stockholders proposals;
Develop, recommend and oversee the annual self-evaluation process of the board and its committees;
Develop and annually review corporate governance guidelines applicable to Investors Bancorp;
Review and monitor the Board’s compliance with Nasdaq Stock Market listing standards for independence; and
Review, in consultation with the Compensation and Benefits Committee, directors’ compensation and benefits.

 In accordance with Corporate Governance Guidelines, the Committee considers all qualified director candidates identified by members of the Committee, by other members of the Board of Directors, by senior management and by stockholders. Stockholders recommending a director candidate to the Committee may do so by submitting the candidate’s name, resume and biographical information to the attention of the Chairman of this Committee in accordance with procedures listed in this proxy statement (also available on Investors Bancorp’s website). All stockholder recommendations for director candidates that the

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Chairman of the Committee receives in accordance with these procedures will be presented to the Committee for its consideration. The Committee’s recommendations to the Board are based on its determination as to the suitability of each individual, and the slate as a whole, to serve as directors of Investors Bancorp.
Criteria for Election
Investors Bancorp’s goal is to have a Board of Directors whose members have diverse professional backgrounds and have demonstrated professional achievement with the highest personal and professional ethics and integrity and whose values are compatible with those of Investors Bancorp. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee does not have a formal policy with regard to the consideration of diversity in identifying director nominees. However, important factors considered in the selection of nominees for director include experience in positions that develop good business judgment, that demonstrate a high degree of responsibility and independence, and that show the individual’s ability to commit adequate time and effort to serve as a director.
Nominees should have a familiarity with the markets in which Investors Bancorp operates, be involved in activities that do not create a conflict with his/her responsibilities to Investors Bancorp and its stockholders, and have the capacity and desire to represent the balanced, best interests of the stockholders of Investors Bancorp as a group, and not primarily a special interest group or constituency.
The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee will also take into account whether a candidate satisfies the criteria for “independence” as defined in the Nasdaq corporate governance listing rules, and, if a candidate with financial and accounting expertise is sought for service on the Audit Committee, whether the individual qualifies as an Audit Committee financial expert.
Procedures for the Nomination of Directors by Stockholders
As previously indicated, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee has adopted procedures for the consideration of Board candidates submitted by stockholders. Stockholders can submit the names of candidates for director by writing to the Chair of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, at Investors Bancorp, Inc., 101 JFK Parkway, Short Hills New Jersey 07078. The submission must include the following information:
a statement that the writer is a stockholder and is proposing a candidate for consideration by the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee;
the qualifications of the candidate and why this candidate is being proposed;
the name, address and contact information for the nominated candidate, and the number of shares of Investors Bancorp common stock that are owned by the candidate (if the candidate is not a holder of record, appropriate evidence of the stockholder’s ownership should be provided);
the name and address of the nominating stockholder as he/she appears on Investors Bancorp’s books, and number of shares of Investors Bancorp common stock that are owned beneficially by such stockholder (if the stockholder is not a holder of record, appropriate evidence of the stockholder’s ownership will be required);
a statement of the candidate’s business and educational experience;
such other information regarding the candidate as would be required to be included in a proxy statement pursuant to SEC Regulation 14A;
a statement detailing any relationship between the candidate and Investors Bancorp and between the candidate and any customer, supplier or competitor of Investors Bancorp;
detailed information about any relationship or understanding between the proposing stockholder and the candidate; and
a statement that the candidate is willing to be considered and willing to serve as a director if nominated and elected.
A nomination submitted by a stockholder for presentation by the stockholder at an annual meeting of stockholders must comply with the procedural and informational requirements described in “Advance Notice of Business to be Conducted at an Annual Meeting” Investors Bancorp did not receive any stockholder submission for Board nominees for this annual meeting.
Stockholder and Interested Party Communication with the Board
A stockholder of Investors Bancorp who wants to communicate with the Board or with any individual director can write to the Chair of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee at Investors Bancorp, Inc., 101 JFK Parkway, Short Hills, New Jersey 07078. The letter should indicate that the author is a stockholder and if shares are not held of record, should include appropriate evidence of stock ownership. Depending on the subject matter, the Chair will:

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Forward the communication to the director(s) to whom it is addressed;
Handle the inquiry directly, for example where it is a request for information about Investors Bancorp or it is a stock-related matter; or
Not forward the communication if it is primarily commercial in nature, relates to an improper or irrelevant topic, or is unduly hostile, threatening, illegal or otherwise inappropriate.
At each Board meeting, the Chair of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee shall present a summary of all communications received since the last meeting and make those communications available to the directors upon request.
 
Codes of Conduct and Ethics
The Board has adopted a code of ethics and business conduct for all employees and a code of ethics and business conduct for directors. These codes are designed to ensure the accuracy of financial reports, deter wrongdoing, promote honest and ethical conduct, the avoidance of conflicts of interest, and full and accurate disclosure and compliance with all applicable laws, rules and regulations. Both of these documents are available on Investors Bancorp’s website at www.myinvestorsbank.com. Amendments to and waivers from the codes of ethics and business conduct will be disclosed on Investors Bancorp’s website.
Transactions With Certain Related Persons
Federal laws and regulations generally require that all loans or extensions of credit to executive officers and directors must be made on substantially the same terms, including interest rates and collateral, as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with the general public and must not involve more than the normal risk of repayment or present other unfavorable features. However, regulations also permit executive officers and directors to receive the same terms through programs that are widely available to other employees, as long as the executive officer or director is not given preferential treatment compared to the other participating employees. Pursuant to such a program, loans have been extended to executive officers on substantially the same terms, including interest rates and collateral, as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with the general public, with the exception of waiving certain fees. These loans do not involve more than the normal risk of collectability or present other unfavorable features.
Section 402 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 generally prohibits an issuer from: (1) extending or maintaining credit; (2) arranging for the extension of credit; or (3) renewing an extension of credit in the form of a personal loan for an officer or director. However, the prohibitions of Section 402 do not apply to loans made by a depository institution, such as Investors Bank, that is insured by the FDIC and is subject to the insider lending restrictions of the Federal Reserve Act. The audit committee reviews related party transactions, the disclosure of which is required under SEC proxy disclosure rules.
During 2015, The Garibaldi Group, of which Director Garibaldi is the Chief Executive Officer and has a controlling ownership interest, provided commercial real estate brokerage services to Investors Bank, the wholly owned subsidiary of Investors Bancorp.  The Garibaldi Group acted as the broker on two office leases in New York and one office lease in New Jersey.  The offices leases in New York are for a five and ten year terms totaling $7.2 million in base rent, while the office lease in New Jersey has a five year term totaling $491,000 in base rent.  The Garibaldi Group received approximately $269,000 in aggregate commissions from the landlords with respect to these transactions. 
Risk Oversight Matters

Risk Oversight Committee
The entire Board of Directors is engaged in risk oversight. However the board established a separate standing Risk Oversight Committee to facilitate its risk oversight responsibilities. The current members of the Risk Oversight Committee are Messrs. Ward (Chair), Bone, Cosgrove, Dugan, Cashill, Dittenhafer, Garibaldi, Albanese, Mses. Byrnes and Siekerka. The Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer serve as a resource to the Risk Oversight Committee and have no votes in the committee’s decision-making process. The Risk Oversight Committee Charter is posted on the “Governance Documents” section of the “Investors Relations” page of the Investors Bank’s website at www.myinvestorsbank.com. The Committee met three times during 2015.
The Risk Oversight Committee has responsibility for enterprise-wide risk management and determining that significant risks of Investors Bancorp are monitored by the Board of Directors or one of its standing committees. In addition, the Risk Committee reviews new products and services proposed to be implemented by management to determine that appropriate risk identification has occurred and that controls are considered to mitigate identified risks to an acceptable level. The Risk Oversight Committee is also responsible for reviewing and monitoring interest rate and liquidity risks, strategic planning and capital deployment, annual budgeting, and asset quality (excluding loans).

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Audit Committee Matters
Audit Committee
The current members of the Audit Committee are: Messrs. Albanese (Chair), Cosgrove, Dittenhafer, Dugan, Ward and Mses. Byrnes and Siekerka. Each member of the Audit Committee is considered independent as defined in the Nasdaq corporate governance listing rules and under SEC Rule 10A-3. The Board considers Mr. Albanese, the Chair of the Audit Committee, and Mr. Dittenhafer each an “audit committee financial expert” as that term is used in the rules and regulations of the SEC.
The Audit Committee operates under a written charter adopted by the Board of Directors. The Audit Committee’s Charter is posted on the “Governance Documents” section of the “Investor Relations” page of Investors Bank’s website at www.myinvestorsbank.com.
As noted in Audit Committee Charter, the primary purpose of the Audit Committee is to assist the Board in overseeing:
The integrity of Investors Bancorp’s financial statements;
Investors Bancorp’s compliance with legal and regulatory requirements;
The independent auditor’s qualifications and independence;
The performance of Investors Bancorp’s internal audit function and independent auditor; and
Investors Bancorp’s system of disclosure controls and system of internal controls regarding finance, accounting, and legal compliance.
In furtherance of this purpose, this committee, among other things, shall:
Retain, oversee and evaluate a firm of independent registered public accountants to audit the annual financial statements;
Review the integrity of Investors Bancorp’s financial reporting processes, both internal and external, in consultation with the independent registered public accounting firm and the internal auditor;
Review the financial statements and the audit report with management and the independent registered public accounting firm;
Review earnings and financial releases and quarterly and annual reports filed with the SEC; and
Approve all engagements for audit and non-audit services by the independent registered public accounting firm.

The Audit Committee met five times during 2015. The Audit Committee reports to the Board of Directors on its activities and findings.

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AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT
Pursuant to rules and regulations of the SEC, this Audit Committee Report shall not be deemed incorporated by reference by any general statement incorporating by reference this Proxy Statement into any filing under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act, except to the extent that Investors Bancorp specifically incorporates this information by reference, and otherwise shall not be deemed “soliciting material” or to be “filed” with the SEC subject to Regulation 14A or 14C of the SEC or subject to the liabilities of Section 18 of the Exchange Act.
Management has the primary responsibility for Investors Bancorp’s internal control and financial reporting process, and for making an assessment of the effectiveness of Investors Bancorp’s internal control over financial reporting. The independent registered public accounting firm is responsible for performing an independent audit of Investors Bancorp’s consolidated financial statements in accordance with standards of the Public Company Oversight Board (United States) ("PCAOB") and to issue an opinion on those financial statements, and for providing an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting. The Audit Committee’s responsibility is to monitor and oversee these processes.
As part of its ongoing activities, the Audit Committee has:
reviewed and discussed with management, and the independent registered public accounting firm, the audited consolidated financial statements and the internal control procedures of Investors Bancorp for the year ended December 31, 2015;
discussed with the independent registered public accounting firm the matters required to be discussed by Statement on Auditing Standards No. 16, Communications with Audit Committees, as adopted by the PCAOB; and
received the written disclosures and the letter from the independent registered public accounting firm required by applicable requirements of the PCAOB regarding the independent registered public accounting firm’s communications with the audit committee concerning independence, and has discussed with the independent registered public accounting firm its independence from Investors Bancorp.
Based on the review and discussions referred to above, the Audit Committee has recommended to Investors Bancorp’s Board of Directors that the audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2015 be included in Investors Bancorp’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for filing with the SEC. In addition, the Audit Committee approved the re-appointment of KPMG LLP as the independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2016, subject to the ratification of this appointment by the stockholders of Investors Bancorp.
 
Audit Committee of Investors Bancorp, Inc.
Robert C. Albanese, Chair
William V. Cosgrove, Member
Brian D. Dittenhafer, Member
Brendan J. Dugan, Member
James H. Ward III, Member
Doreen R. Byrnes, Member
Michele N. Siekerka, Member

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Compensation and Benefits Committee Matters
Compensation and Benefits Committee
The current members of the Compensation and Benefits Committee are: Messrs. Bone (Chair), Albanese, Cosgrove, Dittenhafer, Dugan, Ward and Ms. Byrnes. Each member of the Compensation and Benefits Committee is considered independent as defined in the Nasdaq corporate governance listing rules and SEC Rule 10C-1. The Compensation and Benefits Committee’s Charter is posted on the “Governance Documents” section of the “Investor Relations” page of the Investors Bank’s website at www.myinvestorsbank.com. The Committee met eight times during 2015.
As noted in the Compensation and Benefits Committee Charter, the purpose of the committee is to assist the Board in carrying out the Board’s overall responsibility relating to executive compensation, incentive compensation and equity and non-equity based benefit plans.
In furtherance of this purpose, this committee, among other things, shall:
Review and recommend to the Board for approval the Chief Executive Officer’s annual compensation, including salary, cash incentive, incentive and equity compensation;
Review and recommend to the Board the evaluation process and compensation for Investors Bancorp’s executive officers and coordinate compensation determinations and benefit plans for all employees of Investors Bancorp;
Review Investors Bancorp’s incentive compensation and other equity-based plans and make changes in such plans as needed;
Review, as appropriate and in consultation with the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, director compensation and benefits; and
Review the independence of the Compensation and Benefits Committee members, legal counsel and compensation consultants.
 
In addition to these duties the committee shall assist the Board in recruiting and succession planning.
The Compensation and Benefits Committee retains responsibility for all compensation recommendations to the Board of Directors as to the executive officers. The Compensation and Benefits Committee may utilize information and benchmarks from an independent compensation consulting firm, and from other sources, to determine how executive compensation levels compare to those companies within the industry. The Compensation and Benefits Committee may review published data for companies of similar size, location, financial characteristics and stage of development among other factors.
In designing the compensation program for Investors Bancorp, the Committee takes into consideration methods to avoid encouraging the taking of excessive risk by executive management or by any other employees. The Committee assessed risks posed by the incentive compensation paid to executive management and other employees and determined that Investors Bancorp’s compensation policies, practices and programs do not pose risks that are reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on Investors Bancorp.
The basic elements of Investors Bancorp’s executive compensation program include base salary, annual cash incentive awards, long-term equity incentive awards and other benefit arrangements, such as retirement programs. In addition to determining the compensation payable to Investors Bancorp’s executive officers, including the Chief Executive Officer and other Named Executive Officers, the Compensation and Benefits Committee evaluates senior executive and director compensation plans and programs, administers and has discretionary authority over the issuance of equity awards under Investors Bancorp equity compensation plans and oversees preparation of a report on executive compensation for inclusion in Investors Bancorp’s annual proxy statement. The Compensation and Benefits Committee is supported by the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer, both of whom serve as a resource by providing input regarding Investors Bancorp’s executive compensation program and philosophy.
Compensation and Benefits Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation
During 2015, Messrs. Dittenhafer, Dugan, Albanese, Bone and Ward served as members of the Compensation and Benefits Committee. None of these directors has ever been an officer or employee of Investors Bancorp; is an executive officer of another entity at which one of Investors Bancorp’s executive officers serves on the Board of Directors, or had any transactions or relationships with Investors Bancorp in 2015 requiring specific disclosures under SEC rules or Nasdaq listing standards. Mr. Cosgrove and Ms. Byrnes, who served as members of the Compensation and Benefits Committee in calendar 2015, is neither an

18



executive officer of another entity at which one of Investors Bancorp’s executive officers serves on the Board of Directors, nor had transactions or relationships with Investors Bancorp in 2015 requiring specific disclosures under SEC rules. Mr. Cosgrove was a non Section 16 officer of Investors Bank since the acquisition of Summit Federal Bankshares, Inc. and Summit Federal Savings Bank in June 2008 through his retirement from Investors Bank on October 1, 2011. Ms. Byrnes was an officer of Investors Bank prior to her retirement in 2007.
 
Executive Compensation
Compensation Discussion and Analysis
Executive Summary. As discussed in greater detail below, our compensation program is specifically designed to provide executives with competitive compensation packages that include elements of both reward and retention. The Compensation and Benefits Committee routinely reviews our compensation practices to remain market competitive and to ensure that these practices are aligned with our compensation philosophy and objectives, regulatory requirements and evolving best practices. Key highlights of the program include:
All members of the Compensation and Benefits Committee and all of its compensation consultants and advisers are independent under applicable Nasdaq rules, which ensures that all aspects of the compensation decision-making process are free from conflicts of interest.
The Compensation and Benefits Committee controls the selection and activities of any compensation consultant or advisers who assist us with executive compensation matters.
We maintain a clawback policy for bonus and other incentive compensation paid to executive officers, which mitigates risk-taking behavior.
Our directors and Named Executive Officers are required to hold our common stock at specified minimum levels, which recognizes the importance of aligning their interests with those of stockholders. The Chief Executive Officer of Investors Bancorp is required to hold Investors Bancorp common stock valued at five times his annual base salary.
The Compensation and Benefits Committee continually reviews all incentive compensation programs with respect to risk-taking behavior, with the guiding principle being the safety and soundness of Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank as paramount to all compensation incentives. The Compensation and Benefits Committee consults with the Risk Committee on these matters.
A significant portion of each Named Executive Officer's compensation is in the form of short and long-term performance-based pay, which reflects and reinforces our pay for performance philosophy.
Compensation packages for Named Executive Officers include an appropriate mix of fixed and variable pay, which provides Named Executive Officers with both reward and retention incentives.
We provide limited executive perquisites.
During the course of the year, management has met with several of our stockholders, which included discussions of executive compensation matters.
This discussion is focused specifically on the compensation of the following executive officers, each of whom is named in the Summary Compensation Table and other compensation tables which appears later in this section. The following executives are referred to in this discussion as “Named Executive Officers.”
 
Name
 
Title
Kevin Cummings
 
President and Chief Executive Officer
Domenick A. Cama
 
Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer
Richard S. Spengler
 
Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer
Paul Kalamaras
 
Executive Vice President and Chief Retail Banking Officer
Sean Burke (1)
 
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Thomas F. Splaine, Jr. (1)
 
Senior Vice President, Financial Planning and Analysis and Investor Relations

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(1)
Effective January 26, 2015, Sean Burke was appointed Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Investors Bancorp. Concurrently, Mr. Splaine was appointed Senior Vice President, Financial Planning and Analysis and Investor Relations of Investors Bancorp. On December 31, 2015, Mr. Splaine resigned from employment with Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank.
Executive Compensation Philosophy. Investors Bancorp’s executive compensation program is designed to offer competitive cash and equity compensation and benefits that will attract, motivate and retain highly qualified and talented executives who will help maximize Investors Bancorp’s financial performance and earnings growth. Investors Bancorp’s executive compensation program is also intended to align the interests of its executive officers with stockholders by rewarding performance against established corporate financial targets, and by motivating strong executive leadership and superior individual performance. In this regard: (1) a substantial portion of the compensation payable to our Named Executive Officers is linked to financial, individual and peer group performance; (2) the interests of our Named Executive Officers is aligned with the long-term interests of our stockholders through their stock-based and non-equity incentive compensation, which is earned primarily based on performance metrics; (3) our focus is providing compensation that is commensurate with the achievement of short-term and long-term financial goals and individual performance; and (4) our executive compensation program is competitive to attract, retain and motivate our Named Executive Officers.
Investors Bancorp’s executive compensation program allocates portions of total compensation between long-term and short-term compensation and between cash and non-cash compensation by including competitive base salaries, executive perquisites, an annual cash incentive plan, stock options and stock awards that are generally subject to a five-year or seven-year vesting schedule, and supplemental executive retirement benefits, which encourage long term employment with Investors Bancorp.
The compensation paid to each Named Executive Officer is based on the executive officer’s level of job responsibility, corporate financial performance measured against corporate financial targets, and an assessment of his individual performance. A significant portion of each Named Executive Officer's total compensation is performance-based because each executive is in a leadership role that can significantly impact corporate performance.
     Following Investors Bancorp’s Annual Meeting of Stockholders in May 2015, the Compensation and Benefits Committee reviewed the results of the stockholder advisory vote on our 2014 executive compensation program for our Named Executive Officers and related compensation policies and decisions. Approximately 95.9% of the votes cast on the proposal were voted in support of the compensation outlined in last year’s proxy statement. After a comprehensive market review and in light of the strong stockholder support, the Compensation and Benefits Committee concluded that no significant revisions were necessary to Investors Bancorp’s executive officer compensation program for 2015.
Role of Executive Officers. The Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer serve as a resource to the Compensation and Benefits Committee by providing input regarding Investors Bancorp’s executive compensation program and philosophy. The Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer participate in compensation-related activities purely in an informational and advisory capacity and have no votes in the committee’s decision-making process.
The Compensation and Benefits Committee meets regularly with the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer regarding the potential incentive compensation performance metrics, including their respective weightings, and to review the progress towards the achievement of the pre-established corporate financial targets and individual performance goals related to our cash and equity incentive plans. Also, the Chief Executive Officer provides the Compensation and Benefits Committee with performance assessments and compensation recommendations for each of the other Named Executive Officers, which are considered by the Compensation and Benefits Committee in arriving at its compensation determinations. However, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer do not attend portions of committee meetings during which their performance is being evaluated or their compensation is being determined.
Role of Compensation Consultant. For 2015, the Compensation and Benefits Committee engaged GK Partners, an independent compensation consultant, to assist in its evaluation of Investor Bancorp’s executive compensation program and providing an annual competitive evaluation of the total compensation of the Named Executive Officers. GK Partners reported directly to the Compensation and Benefits Committee, and did not perform any other services to Investors Bancorp or Investors Bank. GK Partners provided the Compensation and Benefits Committee with executive compensation benchmarking trends and external developments, and also provided input on Investor Bancorp and Investor Bank's short-term and long-term incentive plans for best practices and market competitiveness.
The Compensation and Benefits Committee considered the independence of GK Partners regarding its independence under the Nasdaq listing standards. The Compensation and Benefits Committee requested and received a report from GK Partners regarding its independence, including the following factors: (1) other services provided to us by GK Partners; (2) fees paid by us as a percentage of GK Partners’ total revenue; (3) policies or procedures maintained by GK Partners that are designed to prevent a conflict of interest; (4) any business or personal relationships between the senior advisors and a member of the Compensation

20



and Benefits Committee; (5) any Investors Bancorp common stock owned by the senior advisors; and (6) any business or personal relationships between our executive officers and GK Partners. The Compensation and Benefits Committee discussed these considerations and concluded that GK Partners had no conflicts of interest with respect to its engagement.
Market Comparison. For 2015, GK Partners compared Investors Bancorp’s executive compensation program to peer group compensation data. GK Partners provided the Compensation and Benefits Committee with relevant competitive cash and stock compensation information obtained from public disclosures of a selected peer group of 18 banking institutions to be used for evaluating 2015 compensation. These included thrift and banking institutions with assets of $4.0 billion to $46.7 billion, having an asset mix similar to Investors Bancorp and doing business predominantly in the Northeast region of the United States. This peer group may be modified from year-to-year as necessary, based on mergers and acquisitions within the industry or other relevant factors. The peer group used for evaluating 2015 compensation consisted of the 18 banking institutions identified below:
 
Astoria Financial Corp.-NY
BankUnited, Inc.- FL
Dime Community Bancshares, Inc.-NY
FirstMerit Corporation-OH
First Niagara Financial Group, Inc.-NY
Flushing Financial Corp.-NY
Fulton Financial Corp.-PA
MB Financial, Inc.- IL
NBT Bancorp, Inc.-NY
New York Community Bancorp, Inc.-NY
Northwest Bancshares, Inc.-PA
People’s United Financial, Inc.-CT
Provident Financial Services, Inc.-NJ
Signature Bank-NY
Susquehanna Bancshares, Inc.-PA
Valley National Bancorp-NJ
Webster Financial Corp.-CT
Wintrust Financial Corporation- IL
Investors Bancorp has no formal policy that requires the compensation of the Named Executive Officers to attain any specific percentile position within the array of peer group compensation data among the selected comparable financial institutions. However, the Compensation and Benefits Committee believes the 2015 executive compensation program for the Named Executive Officers was appropriate relative to our peer group because it was commensurate with the Named Executive Officer's individual performance and experience and the overall market conditions in our geographic market.
Elements of Executive Compensation for 2015. The Compensation and Benefits Committee used a total compensation approach in establishing our elements of executive compensation, which consist of base salary, annual cash incentive awards, long-term incentive awards (such as stock option and restricted stock awards), a competitive benefits package (including supplemental executive retirement benefits where warranted), and limited perquisites.
Base Salary. Base salary is the primary fixed component of our executive compensation package for our Named Executive Officers. Base salary levels for the Named Executive Officers are generally evaluated by the Compensation and Benefits Committee on a bi-annual basis. In general, salaries are developed considering the competitive base salary information furnished to the Compensation and Benefits Committee by GK Partners. Each Named Executive Officer’s base salary level is determined by his sustained individual performance, leadership, operational effectiveness, tenure in office, experience in the industry and employment market conditions in our geographic market. In determining base salary adjustments for 2015, the Compensation and Benefits Committee considered Investors Bancorp’s financial performance, and peer group and market-based industry salary data provided by our independent consultant, as well as the individual factors identified above. Based on this analysis, for 2015 the Compensation and Benefits Committee made no changes to base salary amounts for each Named Executive Officer.
Executive Officer Annual Incentive Plan. The Executive Officer Annual Incentive Plan was adopted, and approved by shareholders, in 2013 such that, under Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code, awards issued under the plan may be treated as performance-based compensation for purposes of the exemption from the $1 million limit on deductibility of compensation paid to each Named Executive Officer of a publicly traded company (other than the principal financial officer). Ms. Byrnes did not participate in any decisions related to the annual incentive awards issued to the Named Executive Officers in 2015 because as

21



a former officer of Investors Bank, she is not an "outside director" as determined under Code Section 162(m). With the exception of Mr. Splaine, each of the Named Executive Officers participated in the Executive Officer Annual Incentive Plan in 2015.
The Compensation and Benefits Committee assigns corporate financial targets and individual performance goals and a range of annual cash incentive award opportunities to each executive officer, or group of officers participating in the plan. The award opportunities for each Named Executive Officer are linked to specific targets and range of performance results for both annual corporate financial performance and individual goals. Each Named Executive Officer's annual cash incentive award is defined as a percentage of base salary. The corporate financial targets and individual goals are established by the Compensation and Benefits Committee no later than 90 days after the commencement of the period of service to which the performance goal relates, but in no event after 25% of the performance period has elapsed, and in either case, so long as the outcome is substantially uncertain at the time that the goal is established. Such targets and goals are weighted in relation to the Named Executive Officer's position and duties. As corporate financial targets and/or individual performance goals exceed or fall short of achievement levels (which are established at Threshold, Target and Maximum Achievements), the actual amount paid under the plan will exceed or fall short of the targeted payment amount.
For 2015, the Compensation and Benefits Committee established the following range of annual cash incentive award opportunities for Threshold, Target and Maximum Achievements:
 
Executive Officer
 
 
Threshold (1)
 
 
Target (1)
 
 
Maximum (1)
 
Kevin Cummings
 
122.0%
 
143.0%
 
200%
Domenick A. Cama
 
97.6%
 
114.4%
 
160%
Richard S. Spengler
 
81%
 
91.5%
 
120%
Paul Kalamaras
 
81%
 
91.5%
 
120%
Sean Burke 
 
67.5%
 
76.3%
 
100%
(1)
Assumed 100% achievement of all individual goals.

The Compensation and Benefits Committee weighted each Named Executive Officer's 2015 annual cash incentive award opportunity under the plan (as a percentage of the total award opportunity) with respect to corporate financial targets and individual goals as follows:

Executive Officer
 
 
Corporate Financial
Targets 
 
Individual Goals 
Kevin Cummings
 
60%
 
40%
Domenick A. Cama
 
60%
 
40%
Richard S. Spengler
 
50%
 
50%
Paul Kalamaras
 
50%
 
50%
Sean Burke
 
50%
 
50%

The Compensation and Benefits Committee feels strongly that executive compensation should be formally tied to the attainment of certain corporate financial targets and individual performance goals to more closely align the executive’s performance with providing value for our stockholders. The corporate financial targets for 2015 were based on: (1) net income, weighted at 70%; and (2) Investor Bancorp’s successfully completing the conversion of its core operating system, weighted at 30%. The successful completion of the conversion of its core operating system was viewed by the Compensation and Benefits Committee as a company-wide performance target metric, as many groups within the Bank worked towards its achievement. The Compensation and Benefits Committee established the following corporate financial targets for net income:

Metric
 
 
Weighting 
 
 
Threshold 
 
 
Target 
 
 
Maximum 
 
Net Income
 
70%
 
$155 million
 
$160 million
 
$165 million



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The individual goals established by the Compensation and Benefits Committee were aligned with each Named Executive Officer's area of responsibility at Investors Bancorp and related to the successful implementation of our strategic initiatives. For 2015, each Named Executive Officer's individual goals were related to the following:
Messrs. Cummings’ and Cama’s individual goals included achieving certain core deposit growth, maintaining loan quality versus peers and promoting Investors Bancorp to various audiences, including but not limited to: stockholders, customers, investment bankers, analysts and employees.
Mr. Spengler’s individual goals included achieving certain loan growth, maintaining loan quality versus our peers and growing deposits for new loan customers.
Mr. Kalamaras’ individual goals included achieving growth in certain core deposit, loan and non-deposit investment products.
Mr. Burke's individual goals were related to the enhancement of the budget process and DFAST process, analysis of the current ALCO model, oversight of the core conversion from the accounting side and overall assessment of the accounting organization structure.
For 2015, the corporate financial target for net income exceeded Maximum achievement levels since net income totaled $181.5 million. In addition, Investors Bancorp successfully completed is system core conversion during the third quarter of 2015. Based upon the foregoing and the assessment of the Named Executive Officer’s individual performance relative to his pre-established individual goals, the Compensation and Benefits Committee approved the following annual cash incentive awards (as a percentage of paid salary) on January 25, 2016:
 
    
2015 Annual Cash Incentive Awards
 
Executive Officer
 
Cash Incentive
($) 
Kevin Cummings
 
2,076,923

Domenick A. Cama
 
1,121,538

Richard S. Spengler
 
535,846

Paul Kalamaras
 
516,223

Sean Burke
 
376,923

Stock Option and Stock Award Program.
At the annual meeting of stockholders held on June 9, 2015, stockholders of the Company approved the Investors Bancorp, Inc. 2015 Equity Incentive Plan ("2015 Equity Plan"). Under this plan, individuals may receive awards of Investors Bancorp common stock (restricted stock) and grants of options to purchase shares of Investors Bancorp common stock at a specified exercise price during a specified time period. The Compensation and Benefits Committee believes that officer and employee stock ownership provides a significant incentive in building stockholder value by further aligning the interests of our officers and employees with stockholders because such compensation is directly linked to the performance of Investors Bancorp common stock. On June 23, 2015, Investors Bancorp granted to executive officers, employees and directors a total of 6,849,832 restricted stock awards and 11,576,612 stock options to purchase Investors Bancorp common stock. The restricted stock awards and stock options were issued from the 2015 Equity Plan, which allows Investors Bancorp to grant common stock or options to purchase common stock at specific prices to directors and employees of Investors Bancorp. The 2015 Equity Plan provides for the issuance or delivery of up to 30,881,296 shares (13,234,841 restricted stock awards and 17,646,455 stock options) of Investors Bancorp common stock.
In order to create a stronger link between the performance of Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank and each Named Executive Officer’s realizable pay and increase the share ownership of the Named Executive Officers, the Compensation and Benefits Committee granted the following equity awards to the Named Executive Officers in 2015:


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Executive Officer
 
Stock Options
 
Time-Based Restricted Stock
 
Performance-Based Restricted Stock
Kevin Cummings
 
1,333,333

 
750,000

 
250,000

Domenick A. Cama
 
1,066,666

 
600,000

 
200,000

Richard S. Spengler
 
713,333

 
400,000

 
133,333

Paul Kalamaras
 
713,333

 
400,000

 
133,333

Sean Burke
 
626,666

 
350,000

 
116,667

Thomas F. Splaine, Jr. (1)
 
60,000

 
50,000

 

(1)
On December 31, 2015, Mr. Splaine resigned from employment with Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank and forfeited his unvested stock option and restricted stock awards.

The stock options and time-based restricted stock awards vest ratably over a seven-year period, which incentivizes the continued service of our key executive talent.
The performance-based restricted stock vest at the conclusion of a three-year performance and the number of shares actually distributed thereafter is based on the satisfaction of the following performance metrics: (1) Net Charge-Offs as a Percentage of Average Loans and Leases vs. Peers; (2) Return on Average Tangible Core Equity vs. Pre-Established Board-Approved Strategic Plan; and (3) Total Shareholder Return vs. Peers. The peer group is established by the Compensation Consultant and is currently comprised of companies with asset sizes ranging from approximately $15 billion to $50 billion.

Net Charge-Offs as a Percentage of Average Loans and Leases vs. Peers. Up to 40% of the Performance-Based Restricted Stock can be earned based on the following:
If Investors Bancorp’s 3-year average peer percentile is equal to or less than 50th percentile
If Investors Bancorp’s 3-year average peer percentile is 51st percentile to 65th percentile
If Investors Bancorp’s 3-year average peer percentile is 66th percentile or higher
40% of Shares vest
20% of Shares vest
0% of Shares vest
Return on Average Tangible Core Equity vs. Board-Approved Strategic Plan. 30% of the Performance-Based Restricted Stock can be earned based on the following:
If Investors Bancorp’s 3 year average Return on Average Tangible Core Equity is equal to or greater than that projected in the 2014 Strategic Plan
If Investors Bancorp’s 3 year average Return on Average Tangible Core Equity is less than that projected in the 2014 Strategic Plan
30% of Shares vest
0% of Shares vest
Total Shareholder Return vs. Peers. 30% of the Performance-Based Restricted Stock can be earned based on the following:
If Investors Bancorp’s 3 year TSR is equal to or greater than the 50th percentile
If Investors Bancorp’s 3 year TSR is less than the 50th percentile
30% of Shares vest
0% of Shares vest
Following the completion of the three-year performance period, the Performance-Based Restricted Stock that has been earned based on the satisfaction of the foregoing performance metrics will, as of February 15, 2018, convert into time-based restricted stock awards that will vest ratably over a three-year service period.
At the October 24, 2006 annual meeting of stockholders, the stockholders approved the Investors Bancorp, Inc. 2006 Equity Incentive Plan (“2006 Equity Incentive Plan”). Under this plan, individuals received awards of Investors Bancorp common stock (restricted stock) and grants of options to purchase shares of Investors Bancorp common stock at a specified exercise price during a specified time period. Upon completion of the Second-Step Conversion and related stock offering on May 7, 2014, vesting accelerated for all stock options and stock awards outstanding and all applicable expenses were recognized at that time. No further grants will be made under the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan or under any equity incentive plan previously maintained by any entity that we acquired.

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    Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans. Set forth below is information as of December 31, 2015 regarding equity compensation plans categorized by those plans that have been approved by stockholders and those plans that have not been approved by stockholders.
 
Number of
Securities to be
Issued Upon
Exercise of
Outstanding
Options and
Rights(1)
 
Weighted
Average
Exercise Price(2)
 
Number of
Securities
Remaining
Available For
Issuance Under
Plan
 
Equity compensation plans approved by stockholders
39,945,672

 
$
11.07

 
12,454,852

(3 
) 
Equity compensation plans not approved by stockholders

 
$

 

 
Total
39,945,672

 
$
11.07

 
12,454,852

 

(1)
Includes outstanding stock options to purchase 9,064,376 shares of common stock granted under the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan.
(2)
The weighted average exercise price reflects an exercise price of $5.98 for 6,194,717 stock options granted in 2006; an exercise price of $5.32 for 1,458,220 stock options granted in 2008; an exercise price of $3.91 for 25,500 stock options granted in 2009; an exercise price of $4.97 for 12,750 stock options granted in 2010; an exercise price of $5.77 for 12,750 stock options granted in 2011; an exercise price of $7.00 for 8,925 stock options granted in 2012; an exercise price of $6.87 for 1,236,764 stock options granted in 2013; an exercise price of $10.19 for 114,750 stock options granted in 2014; an exercise price of $12.54 for 11,576,612 stock options granted in 2015 under the Company’s stock-based compensation plans.
(3)
Represents the number of available shares that may be granted as stock options and other stock awards under the Company’s stock-based compensation plans.
 Benefits. Investors Bank provides its executives, including the Named Executive Officers, with medical and dental insurance, disability insurance and group life insurance coverage consistent with the same benefits provided to all of its full-time employees. The Named Executive Officers are participants in our qualified retirement plans, including the ESOP, 401(k) Plan and the defined benefit pension plan offered to all full-time employees of Investors Bank and designated subsidiaries, and non-qualified retirement plans, including the Supplemental ESOP and Retirement Plan ("SERP I") and the Executive Supplemental Retirement Wage Replacement Plan (the “ SERP II”). Additionally, Investors Bank sponsors a long-term care program for certain of its executive officers, senior vice presidents and their spouses or spousal equivalents. Each individual policy is owned by the covered person. Investors Bank pays all premiums under the long term care program but will stop paying premiums in the event of the participant’s: (i) termination for cause; (ii) retirement; (iii) relocation outside of the country; or (iv) death. Spousal coverage will be terminated upon: (i) a participant’s termination or retirement; (ii) divorce from the participant; (iii) the participant no longer qualifying for coverage; (iv) the spouse’s permanent relocation outside of the country; or (v) death. Participants who cannot be insured through an insurance company under the long-term care program will be self-insured by Investors Bank.
ESOP. Under the ESOP employees of Investors Bank and any subsidiary (unless excluded by the ESOP) who have been credited with at least 1,000 hours of service during a 12-month period are eligible to participate in the ESOP. The ESOP borrowed funds from Investors Bancorp pursuant to a loan and used those funds to purchase 10,847,883 shares of common stock for the ESOP in connection with Investors Bancorp’s initial public offering in 2005. In connection with the completion of the Second-Step Conversion and related stock offering on May 7, 2014, the ESOP purchased an additional 6,617,421 shares of common stock. The Company refinanced the outstanding principal and interest balance of $33.9 million and borrowed an additional $66.2 million to purchase the additional shares. The purchased shares serve as collateral for the loan. The loan is being repaid principally through annual contributions to the ESOP by Investors Bank and dividends paid on the unallocated ESOP shares over the 30 year loan. Shares purchased by the ESOP are held in a suspense account for allocation among the participants’ accounts as the loan is repaid on a pro-rata basis.
Contributions to the ESOP and shares released from the suspense account in an amount proportional to the repayment of the ESOP loan will be allocated to each eligible participant’s plan account, based on the ratio of each participant’s compensation to the total compensation of all eligible participants. Vested benefits will be payable generally upon the participants’ termination of employment, and will be paid in the form of Investors Bancorp common stock. Pursuant to FASB ASC Topic 718-40, we are required to record a compensation expense each year in an amount equal to the fair market value of the shares released from the suspense account.

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401(k) Plan. Investors Bank maintains the 401(k) Plan, a tax-qualified defined contribution retirement plan, for all employees who have satisfied the 401(k) Plan’s eligibility requirements. All eligible employees can begin participation in the 401(k) Plan on the first day of the plan year or the first day of the first day of the month following the date on which the employee attains age 21. A participant may contribute up to 60% of his or her compensation to the 401(k) Plan on a pre-tax basis, subject to the limitations imposed by the Internal Revenue Code. For 2015, the salary deferral contribution limit is $18,000. However, a participant over age 50 may contribute an additional $5,500 to the 401(k) Plan. A participant is always 100% vested in his or her salary deferral contributions. In addition to salary deferral contributions, the 401(k) Plan provides that Investors Bank will make an employer contribution equal to 50% of the participant’s salary deferral contribution, provided that such amount does not exceed 6% of the participant’s compensation earned during the plan year. Participants will become 100% vested in their employer contributions after completing three years of credited service (which is a three-year cliff vesting schedule). However a participant will immediately become 100% vested in any employer contributions upon the participant’s disability or attainment of age 65 while employed with Investors Bank. Generally, unless a participant elects otherwise, the participant’s benefit under the 401(k) Plan is generally payable in the form of a lump sum payment as soon as administratively feasible following his or her termination of employment with Investors Bank, provided, however that a participant can elect to receive a distribution of his or her vested account upon attaining age 59 12.
Each participant has an individual account under the 401(k) Plan and may direct the investment of his or her account among a variety of investment options or vehicles available. In connection with the Second-Step Conversion and related stock offering, each participant was eligible to make a one-time purchase of Investors Bancorp common stock through the 401(k) Plan, provided that the purchase did not exceed 50% of the participant’s account balance. Investors Bancorp common stock is not currently an investment option available under the 401(k) Plan.
Defined Benefit Pension Plan. Investors Bank participates in the Pentegra Defined Benefit Plan for Financial Institutions, formerly known as the Financial Institutions Retirement Fund, which is a tax-qualified defined benefit pension plan (the “Defined Benefit Plan”). All employees age 21 or older who have completed one year of employment with Investors Bank are eligible for participation in the Defined Benefit Plan; however, only employees who have been credited with 1,000 or more hours of service with Investors Bank are eligible to accrue benefits under the Defined Benefit Plan. Investors Bank annually contributes an amount to the plan necessary to satisfy the minimum funding requirements established under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended (“ERISA”).
The retirement benefit formula under the Defined Benefit Plan provides for a nonintegrated unit accrual formula with an annual accrual rate of 1.25% of the participant’s high five year average salary, with a 30-year salary cap. A participant’s average annual compensation is the average annual compensation over the five consecutive calendar years out of the last 10 calendar years in which the participant’s compensation was the greatest, or over all calendar years if less than five.
The regular form of retirement benefit is a straight life annuity (if the participant is single) and a joint and survivor annuity (if the participant is married). However, various alternative forms of joint and survivor annuities may be selected instead. If a participant dies while in active service and after having become fully vested, a qualified 100% survivor benefit will be payable to the participant’s beneficiary. Benefits payable upon death may be paid in a lump sum, installments, or in the form of a life annuity. Upon termination of employment due to disability, the participant will be entitled to a disability retirement benefit at age 65.
SERP I. Investors Bank maintains the Supplemental ESOP and Retirement Plan ("SERP I"). The Plan is intended to compensate certain executives participating in the Defined Benefit Plan and the ESOP whose contributions or benefits are limited by Sections 415 and/or 401(a)(17) of the Internal Revenue Code, applicable to tax-qualified retirement plans (the “Tax Law Limitations”). As of December 31, 2015, Messrs. Cummings, Cama, Spengler, Kalamaras and Splaine were participants in the SERP I.
SERP I provides benefits attributable to participation in the Defined Benefit Plan equal to the excess, if any, of the vested accrued benefit to which the participant would be entitled under the Defined Benefit Plan, determined without regard to the Tax Law Limitations, over the vested accrued benefit to which the participant is actually entitled under the Defined Benefit Plan, taking into account the Tax Law Limitations (the “Supplemental Retirement Plan Benefit”).
SERP I also provides benefits attributable to participation in the ESOP equal to the difference between the allocation of shares of Investors Bancorp common stock the participant would have received under the ESOP without regard to the Tax Law Limitations, and the number of shares of stock that are actually allocated as a result of the Tax Law Limitations (the “Supplemental ESOP Benefit”). The Supplemental ESOP Benefit under the plan is denominated in phantom shares of stock such that one phantom share has a value equal to the fair market value of one share of Investors Bancorp common stock. Each participant’s phantom shares are held in a bookkeeping account established on his or her behalf. Each plan year, the dollar amount of appreciation on

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the phantom shares deemed allocated to each participant’s account will be converted into phantom shares and credited to each participant’s account.
As a long-term compensation plan, the participant’s vested interest in the Supplemental Retirement Plan Benefit and in the Supplemental ESOP Benefit is based on a five-year cliff vesting schedule where participants with less than five years of employment will be 0% vested in their benefits, and will become 100% vested upon the completion of five years of employment.
In the event of a participant’s separation from service prior to attainment of age 55, the participant’s accrued Supplemental Retirement Plan Benefit will be paid in a single lump sum payment within 30 days of the participant’s separation from service. In the event of separation from service after age 55, the participant’s Supplemental Retirement Plan Benefit will be payable upon the participant’s early retirement date (age 55 with 10 years of service) or normal retirement date (age 65 with five years of service) in either a lump sum or an annuity (single life, single life with 120 months guaranteed, joint and 100% survivor annuity or joint and 50% survivor annuity) as elected by the participant, subject to the requirements of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code. In the event of a participant’s separation from service within two years following a change in control (as defined in the Plan), the participant will receive his Supplemental Retirement Plan Benefit in a lump sum within 30 days after his separation from service. The participant’s Supplemental ESOP Benefit will be payable in cash in either a lump sum or annual installments over a period not to exceed five years, as elected by the participant, and will commence within 30 days following the earlier of the participant’s: (i) separation from service, (ii) death or (iii) disability, subject to the requirements of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event the participant is a “specified employee”, as defined under Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code, no benefit will be payable under the plan during the first six months following the participant’s separation from service (except in the event of death or disability).
SERP II. Investors Bank maintains the Executive Supplemental Retirement Wage Replacement Plan ("SERP II"). SERP II is designed to provide participants with a normal retirement benefit, which is an annual benefit equal to 60% of the participant’s highest average annual base salary and cash incentive (over a consecutive 36-month period within the last 120 consecutive calendar months of employment) reduced by the sum of the benefits provided under the Defined Benefit Plan and the annuitized value of his or her benefits payable from the defined benefit portion of the SERP I (which is referred to above as the Supplemental Retirement Plan Benefit).
Upon separation from service at or after the normal retirement date (age 65) with at least 120 months of employment, a participant is entitled to the normal retirement benefit commencing on the first day of the month after separation from service, payable in monthly installments for life, with 120 monthly payments guaranteed or for an alternative period of time as elected by the participant. If the participant retires after the normal retirement date, but before completion of 120 months of employment, his or her normal retirement benefit will be reduced by 1/120th for each month of employment less than 120 months. If the participant’s separation from service actually occurs later than the normal retirement date, the participant’s normal retirement benefit will be increased by 0.8% for each month of employment with Investors Bank after the normal retirement date.
Upon separation from service on or after the early retirement date, but prior to the normal retirement date, the participant’s accrued benefit payable as an early retirement benefit will be equal to the normal retirement benefit, reduced by 2% for each year prior to age 65; however, if the participant separates from service on or after attaining age 55 with 25 years of vesting service, his or her accrued benefit will not be reduced. The early retirement date for current participants is the date on which the participant attains both age 55 and has completed five years of service with Investors Bank. A participant can elect for the early retirement benefit to commence either: (i) within 30 days; or (ii) on the normal retirement date. In the event of a participant’s separation from service coincident with or within two years following a change in control, the participant will be entitled to a lump sum payment equal to the actuarial equivalent of the normal retirement benefit or early retirement benefit if the participant has not attained age 65. For these purposes, a participant with less than 120 months of employment will be entitled to a benefit calculated as if the participant had 120 months of employment, and a participant who has not yet attained age 55 will be deemed to have attained age 55. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event the participant is a “specified employee” as defined under Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code, no benefit will be payable under the plan during the first six months following the participant’s separation from service (except in the event of death or disability).
If a participant dies while in active service, a survivor benefit, calculated as if the participant had lived until his normal retirement date, will be payable to the participant’s beneficiary. Upon termination of employment due to disability, the participant will be entitled to a disability retirement benefit payable at age 65.
At December 31, 2015, Messrs. Cummings, Cama, Kalamaras and Spengler were participants in the SERP II.
Perquisites. The Compensation and Benefits Committee believes that perquisites should be provided on a limited basis, and only to the most senior level of executive officers. As of December 31, 2015, the following perquisites were available for Messrs.

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Cummings, Cama, Spengler and Kalamaras: (1) club membership; (2) automobile allowance; (3) long term care insurance and (4) an annual medical examination. For Mr. Burke available perquisites included an annual medical examination and long term care insurance.
Elements of Post-Termination Benefits
Employment Agreements. Investors Bancorp entered into employment agreements with each of Messrs. Cummings, Cama, Spengler, Kalamaras and Burke. The employment agreements for Messrs. Cummings, Cama, and Spengler were originally entered into on October 11, 2005 and the employment agreement for Mr. Kalamaras was originally entered into on August 18, 2008. The employment agreements for Messrs. Cummings and Cama were each amended and restated on August 18, 2008 to conform to the requirements of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code, and the employment agreements for Messrs. Spengler and Kalamaras were each amended and restated on March 29, 2010 solely to change the length of the executive’s employment term. The employment agreement for Mr. Burke was entered into on January 26, 2015.
Each of these agreements has an initial term of three years. Unless notice of non-renewal is provided, the agreements renew annually. Each executive is entitled to base salary and is eligible to participate in employee benefit plans and arrangements, including incentive compensation and nonqualified compensation plans, generally made available by Investors Bancorp or Investors Bank to its senior executives and key management employees.
Each executive is entitled to a severance payment and benefits in the event of his termination of employment under specified circumstances. In the event the executive’s employment is terminated for reasons other than for just cause, disability or retirement, provided that such termination of employment constitutes a “separation from service” under Internal Revenue Code Section 409A, or in the event the executive resigns during the term of the agreement following: (i) the failure to elect or reelect or to appoint or reappoint the executive to his executive position; (ii) a material change in the executive’s functions, duties, or responsibilities, which change would cause the executive’s position to become one of lesser responsibility, importance or scope; (iii) the liquidation or dissolution of Investors Bancorp or Investors Bank, other than a liquidation or dissolution caused by a reorganization that does not affect the status of the executive; (iv) a change in control of Investors Bancorp; or (v) a material breach of the employment agreement by Investors Bancorp or Investors Bank, the executive would be entitled to a severance payment equal to three times the sum of his base salary and the highest amount of cash incentive compensation awarded to him during the prior three years, payable in a lump sum. In addition, the executive would be entitled to, at Investors Bancorp’s sole expense, the continuation of nontaxable life and medical, dental and disability coverage for 36 months after termination of employment. The executive would also receive a lump sum payment of the excess, if any, of the present value of the benefits he would be entitled to under any defined benefit pension plan maintained by Investors Bank or Investors Bancorp if he had continued working for Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank for 36 months over the present value of the benefits to which he is actually entitled as of the date of termination. The executives would be entitled to no additional benefits under the employment agreement upon retirement at age 65 or if terminated for just cause.
Should the executive become disabled, Investors Bancorp would continue to pay the executive his base salary for the longer of the remaining term of the agreement or one year, provided that any amount paid to the executive pursuant to any employer-provided disability insurance would reduce the compensation he would receive. In the event the executive dies while employed by Investors Bancorp, the executive’s estate will be paid the executive’s base salary for one year and the executive’s family will be entitled to continuation of medical and dental benefits for one year after the executive’s death. The employment agreement terminates upon retirement (as defined therein), and the executive would only be entitled to benefits under any retirement plan of Investors Bancorp and other plans to which the executive is a party.
The employment agreements for Messrs. Cummings and Cama also provide for indemnification against any excise taxes which may be owed by the executive for any payments made in connection with a change in control that would constitute “excess parachute payments” under Section 280G of the Internal Revenue Code. The indemnification payment would be the amount necessary to ensure that the amount of such payments and the value of such benefits received by the executive equal the amount of such payments and the value of such benefits the executive would have received in the absence of an excise tax attributable to Sections 280G and 4999 of the Internal Revenue Code, including any federal, state and local taxes on Investors Bancorp’s payment to the executive attributable to such tax. The employment agreements for Messrs. Spengler, Kalamaras, and Burke were amended in April 2016 so that the gross benefits under the employment agreements would be reduced to avoid penalties under Section 280G of the Internal Revenue Code if doing so results in a greater after-tax benefit to the executive.
Upon any termination of the executive’s employment, other than a termination (whether voluntary or involuntary) following a change in control as a result of which Investors Bancorp has paid the executive severance benefits, the executive is prohibited from competing with Investors Bank and/or Investors Bancorp for one year following such termination within 25 miles of any existing branch of Investors Bank or any subsidiary of Investors Bancorp or within 25 miles of any office for which Investors

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Bank, Investors Bancorp or a bank subsidiary of Investors Bancorp has filed an application for regulatory approval to establish an office, determined as of the effective date of such termination, except as agreed to pursuant to a resolution duly adopted by the Board of Directors. The executive is also subject to confidentiality provisions during and after the term of the employment agreement.
Severance Payable to Mr. Splaine. In connection with Mr. Splaine’s resignation from his executive position with Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank on December 31, 2015, he received a cash severance payment of $1,297,957, payable under his employment agreement. Such amount represented the sum of: (i) 1.5 times the sum of his base salary and highest rate of cash incentive compensation awarded to him during the prior three years; (ii) estimated cost of the monthly premiums for 18 months of continued coverage under Investors Bank’s group health plan, which included an amount to reflect the estimated federal and state income taxes incurred with respect to such payment; and (iii) the present value of the additional benefits he would have received under the Defined Benefit Plan and SERP I if he had continued working 18 months following his date of termination.
Other Matters
Stock Ownership Requirements. The Board of Directors adopted stock ownership guidelines for our Named Executive Officers that require the following minimum investment in Investors Bancorp common stock:
 
Chief Executive Officer
A number of shares having a market value equal to 5x annual base salary
Other Named Executive Officers
A number of shares having a market value equal to 3x annual base salary
Equity Retention Policy. In 2013, the Board of Directors adopted the Equity Retention Policy, which is independent of the stock ownership guidelines described above. This policy applies to all executive officers of Investors Bancorp and all members of the Board of Directors. Under the policy, each executive officer is required to retain direct ownership of at least 50% of his or her “covered shares,” net of taxes and transaction costs, until three months following the date of the executive officer’s termination of employment. Each director is required to retain direct ownership of at least 50% of his or her “covered shares,” net of taxes and transaction costs, until termination of service from the Board of Directors. A “covered share” means any share acquired by an executive officer or director pursuant to an award granted after July 23, 2013 under any equity compensation plan or other written compensatory arrangement.
Anti-Hedging Policy. The Board of Directors adopted an anti-hedging policy, which prohibits directors and executive officers, including the Named Executive Officers, from engaging in or effecting any transaction designed to hedge or offset the economic risk of owning shares of Investors Bancorp common stock. Accordingly, any hedging, derivative or other equivalent transaction that is specifically designed to reduce or limit the extent to which declines in the trading price of Investors Bancorp common stock would affect the value of shares of Investors Bancorp common stock owned by an executive officer or director is prohibited. Cashless exercises of stock options are not deemed short sales and are permitted. This policy does not prohibit transactions involving the stock of other unrelated companies.
Clawback Policy. In accordance with a clawback policy adopted by the Board of Directors, as a condition to receiving incentive compensation, Named Executive Officers agree to return bonus and other incentive compensation paid by Investors Bancorp (including cancellation of outstanding equity awards and reimbursement of any gains realized on such awards) if: (i) the payments or awards were based on reported financial statement or financial information or (any performance metrics or criteria that were based on such financial statements or information); (ii) there is an accounting restatement of financial statements due to material noncompliance with financial reporting requirements under the federal securities laws; and (iii) the amount of the bonus or incentive compensation, as calculated under the restated financial results, is less than the amount actually paid or awarded under the original financial results.
Tax Deductibility of Executive Compensation. Under Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code, companies are subject to limits on the deductibility of executive compensation. Deductible compensation is limited to $1 million per year for each Named Executive Officer listed in the summary compensation table, except for the principal financial officer. Compensation that is “performance-based” under the Internal Revenue Code’s definition is exempt from this limit. Stock option grants are intended to qualify as performance-based compensation.
     The Compensation and Benefits Committee currently does not have a formal policy with respect to the payment of compensation in excess of the deduction limit. The Compensation and Benefits Committee’s practice is to structure compensation programs offered to the Named Executive Officers with a view to maximizing the tax deductibility of amounts paid. However, in structuring compensation programs and making compensation decisions, the Compensation and Benefits Committee considers a variety of factors, including Investors Bancorp’s tax position, the materiality of the payment and tax deductions involved and the

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need for flexibility to address unforeseen circumstances and Investors Bancorp’s incentive and retention requirement for its management personnel. After considering these factors, the Compensation and Benefits Committee may decide to authorize payments, all or part of which would be nondeductible for federal tax purposes.
Tax and Accounting Implications. In consultation with our tax advisors, we evaluate the tax and accounting treatment of our compensation program at the time of adoption and on an annual basis to ensure that we understand the financial impact of the program. Our analysis includes a detailed review of recently adopted and pending changes in tax and accounting requirements. As part of our review, we consider modifications and/or alternatives to existing programs to take advantage of favorable changes in the tax or accounting environment or to avoid adverse consequences.
Compensation Risk Management. The Compensation and Benefits Committee believes that any risks arising from Investors Bancorp’s compensation policies and practices for all of its employees, including the Named Executive Officers, are not reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on Investors Bancorp or Investors Bank. In addition, the Compensation and Benefits Committee believes that the mix and design of the elements of the compensation program will encourage senior management to act in a manner that is focused on long-term valuation of Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank.
The Compensation and Benefits Committee regularly reviews Investors Bancorp’s compensation program to ensure that controls are in place so that employees are not presented with opportunities to take unnecessary and excessive risks that could threaten the value of Investors Bancorp or Investors Bank. With respect to the Executive Officer Annual Incentive Plan, the Compensation and Benefits Committee reviews and approves the company-wide performance objectives that determine the bonus payments to be made thereunder. The performance objectives are selected in consultation with an outside independent consultant, and are customary performance metrics for financial institutions in Investors Bancorp’s peer group. Furthermore, all bonus payments are subject to clawback in accordance with our clawback policy, which ensures that performance awards are linked to the actual performance of Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank and promotes the long-term value creation of Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank. Moreover, we instituted our equity retention policy to more closely align the interests of management and the Board with those of our stockholders.
Finally, by implementing the ESOP, the 2006 Equity Plan, the 2015 Equity Plan and by having an executive stock ownership requirement and an equity retention policy, our executive management team and employees have a significant ownership interest in Investors Bancorp, which will align their interests with those of the stockholders, and in turn will contribute to long-term stockholder value and decrease the likelihood that they would take excessive risks that could threaten the value of their Investors Bancorp common stock.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS COMMITTEE REPORT
Pursuant to rules and regulations of the SEC, this Compensation and Benefits Committee Report shall not be deemed incorporated by reference to any general statement incorporating by reference this Proxy Statement into any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, except to the extent that Investors Bancorp specifically incorporates this information by reference, and otherwise shall not be deemed “soliciting material” or to be “filed” with the SEC subject to Regulation 14A or 14C of the SEC or subject to the liabilities of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

The Compensation and Benefits Committee (the Committee) of Investors Bancorp has reviewed and discussed the Compensation Discussion and Analysis required by Item 402(b) of Regulation S-K with management and, based on such review and discussions, the Compensation and Benefits Committee recommended to the Board of Directors that the Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in this Proxy Statement and our Annual Report on Form 10-K.
The Committee understands its fiduciary responsibility to shareholders. The Committee has worked diligently with the assistance of management and our compensation consultant to implement a performance driven compensation program.
We operate in a very competitive banking market. To ensure fairness and competiveness, the Committee collects and analyzes an extensive amount of information about executive compensation values and practices in our marketplace. In our region, obtaining and retaining talented people is a serious challenge. The worldwide financial services industry has a large footprint in the New York and New Jersey area and consequently many opportunities exist for employment. It is important to make Investors Bancorp attractive to this important talent pool.
The Committee is proud of our Executive Officer Annual Incentive Plan. Each year a participant is assigned personal goals and a share of the overall corporate goals. Each participant is advised of the cash incentive opportunity for meeting his/her goals. We believe that the Plan has had a positive effect on employee performance and has stimulated and energized employees to contribute to the overall success of Investors Bancorp. The Committee is delighted to see the energy and effort our employees

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bring to achieving their goals. Careful selection of goals in a way that aligns the employees’ performance with advancing the overall strategic objectives of Investors Bancorp moves the entire company along its carefully designed strategic path.
The Committee has also utilized equity grants to drive long term performance and to align employees’ financial interests with those of our stockholders. Recent grants have been made with a seven year vesting requirement, which is much longer than the vesting requirements of our peers. Investors Bank also sponsors the ESOP, through which all eligible employees are eligible to receive Investors Bancorp common stock. By ensuring that all employees are shareholders, the Committee believes that the entire workforce has a personal financial stake in the success of Investors Bancorp.
Investors Bancorp has adopted a clawback policy, in order to recapture inappropriate incentive compensation payments, should that ever occur. At the same time, the Committee recognizes the need to discourage the taking of undue risk to achieve short term goals. We have built into our overall compensation philosophy elements that encourage longer term thinking and in particular, the preservation of asset quality. It is the Committee’s belief that our compensation program spends company funds in a way that effectively drives superior employee performance and the success of Investors Bancorp.
 
Compensation and Benefits Committee of Investors Bancorp, Inc.

Dennis M. Bone, Chair
Robert C. Albanese, Member
Doreen R. Byrnes, Member
William V. Cosgrove, Member
Brian D. Dittenhafer, Member
Brendan J. Dugan, Member
James H. Ward, III, Member


Executive Compensation
The following table sets forth for the calendar years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 certain information as to the total remuneration earned to Named Executive Officers with respect to the applicable year.


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SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
 
Name and Principal Position
 
Year
 
Salary ($)
 
Bonus ($)
 
Stock  Awards ($) (1) 
 
Option Awards ($) (1)
 
Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation
($) (2)
 
Change in Pension Value and Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Earnings ($) (3)
 
All Other Compensation ($)(4)
 
Total ($)
 
Total Without Change in Pension Value ($)
Kevin Cummings, President and Chief Executive Officer
 
2015
 
1,000,000

 

 
12,540,000

 
4,159,999

 
2,076,923

 
2,411,000

 
230,035

 
22,417,957

 
20,006,957

 
2014
 
1,000,000

 

 

 

 
1,500,000

 
5,058,000

 
278,700

 
7,836,700

 
2,778,700

 
2013
 
935,000

 
467,500

 

 

 
1,402,500

 
1,650,000

 
297,559

 
4,752,559

 
3,102,559

Domenick A. Cama, Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer
 
2015
 
675,000

 

 
10,032,000

 
3,327,998

 
1,121,539

 
1,200,000

 
161,720

 
16,518,257

 
15,318,257

 
2014
 
675,000

 

 

 

 
810,000

 
2,799,000

 
180,794

 
4,464,794

 
1,665,794

 
2013
 
621,000

 
275,000

 

 

 
745,200

 
742,000

 
190,261

 
2,573,461

 
1,831,461

Richard Spengler, Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer
 
2015
 
430,000

 

 
6,687,996

 
2,225,599

 
535,846

 
295,000

 
94,231

 
10,268,672

 
9,973,672

 
2014
 
430,000

 

 

 

 
381,195

 
1,049,000

 
105,118

 
1,965,313

 
916,313

 
2013
 
400,000

 
125,000

 

 

 
358,200

 
88,000

 
120,314

 
1,091,514

 
1,003,514

Paul Kalamaras, Executive Vice President and Chief Retail Banking Officer
 
2015
 
415,000

 

 
6,687,996

 
2,225,599

 
516,223

 
541,000

 
84,559

 
10,470,377

 
9,929,377

 
2014
 
415,000

 

 

 

 
371,633

 
935,000

 
91,726

 
1,813,359

 
878,359

 
2013
 
375,000

 
125,000

 

 

 
333,450

 
293,000

 
106,012

 
1,232,462

 
939,462

Sean Burke, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (5)
 
2015
 
376,923

 

 
5,852,004

 
1,955,198

 
376,923

 

 
38,159

 
8,599,207

 
8,599,207

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Thomas F. Splaine, Jr., Senior Vice President Financial Planning and Analysis and Investor Relations (6)
 
2015
 
352,500

 
88,125

 
627,000

 
187,200

 

 
100,000

 
1,386,885

 
2,741,710

 
2,641,710

 
2014
 
352,500

 

 

 

 
264,375

 
230,000

 
78,809

 
925,684

 
695,684

 
2013
 
325,000

 
147,500

 

 

 
199,875

 
19,000

 
88,722

 
780,097

 
761,097

 
(1)
The amounts in this column reflect the aggregate grant date fair value computed in accordance with FASB ASC 718, of restricted stock and stock option awards granted pursuant to the 2015 Equity Incentive Plan. Assumptions used in the calculation of these amounts are included in Note 11 to Investors Bancorp’s audited financial statements for the calendar year ended December 31, 2015 included in Investors Bancorp’s Annual Report on Form 10-K.
(2)
The amounts were earned pursuant to the Executive Officer Annual Incentive Plan.
(3)
The amounts in this column reflect the aggregate change in the actuarial present value of the Named Executive Officer's accumulated benefit under all defined benefit and actuarial pension plans (including supplemental plans) from the measurement date in the immediately preceding calendar year to the measurement date in such calendar year, determined using the interest rate and mortality rate assumptions consistent with those used in Investors Bancorp’s financial statements. The amount reported may include amounts in which the Named Executive Officer is not yet vested. Earnings under the SERP I attributable to the Supplemental ESOP Benefit are not included in this column because the earnings were not “above-market,” as defined by the SEC. For 2014, the change in pension value was substantially higher than 2013 and 2015 primarily as a result of the decrease in the discount rate assumption due to market conditions, as well as the Society of Actuaries’ 2014 issuance of new mortality tables projecting longer life expectancies. In particular, 53% of Mr. Cummings change in pension value in 2014 was due solely to changes in these assumptions.

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(4)
The amounts in this column represent all other compensation not reported in prior columns in this table, including perquisites, the aggregate value of which exceeds $10,000, and employer contributions to defined contribution plans. See the “All Other Compensation” and “Perquisites” tables below for a breakdown of these amounts for the year ended December 31, 2015.
(5)
Mr. Burke was appointed Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer on January 26, 2015. Mr. Burke's full year annualized base salary was $400,000.
(6) Mr. Splaine received a cash bonus in connection with the completion of the conversion of its core operating system.


33




Amounts included in the “Stock Awards” and “Option Awards” columns of the Summary Compensation Table for the year ended December 31, 2015 represent the grant date fair value of the awards issued to the Named Executive Officers under the 2015 Equity Plan, as determined in accordance with applicable accounting standards. Notwithstanding that (1) stock options and time-based restricted stock awards vest ratably over a seven year period and the performance-based restricted stock awards are subject to a three-year performance period ending on December 31, 2017; and (2) the annual financial statement expense that we are required to recognize for these grants will be expensed ratably over the vesting period and will be significantly less than the amounts included in the “Stock Awards” and “Option Awards” columns for the year ended December 31, 2015, the SEC rules require that we report the full grant date fair value of restricted stock and stock option awards in the year in which the grants are made. In addition, with respect to the performance-based restricted stock awards, the actual value, if any realized by the Named Executive Officers will depend on the satisfaction of the performance metrics related to the awards. Moreover, with respect to the stock options, the actual value, if any, realized by any Named Executive Officers will depend on the extent to which the market value of the Investors Bancorp common stock exceeds the exercise price of the stock option on the date of exercise. Accordingly, there is no assurance that the values realized by the Named Executive Officer will be at or near the amounts in the “Stock Awards” and “Option Awards” columns.

ALL OTHER COMPENSATION
 
Name
 
Calendar or Fiscal Year
 
Perquisites and Other Personal Benefits ($)(1) 
 
Company Contribution for Medical and Insurance Benefits ($)
 
Company Contributions to ESOP and 401(k) Plan and SERP I ($)
 
Severance Payment (2)
 
Total ($)
Kevin Cummings
 
2015
 
21,228

 
27,896

 
180,911

 

 
230,035

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Domenick A. Cama
 
2015
 
23,204

 
27,896

 
110,620

 

 
161,720

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Richard S. Spengler
 
2015
 
9,579

 
19,258

 
65,394

 

 
94,231

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Paul Kalamaras
 
2015
 
19,061

 
2,948

 
62,550

 

 
84,559

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sean Burke
 
2015
 

 
29,159

 
9,000

 

 
38,159

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Thomas F. Splaine, Jr.
 
2015
 
18,646

 
16,933

 
53,349

 
1,297,957

 
1,386,885

 
(1)
A detailed description of the perquisites included in this column is set forth in the table below.
(2)
Amount reflects the severance benefits payable to Mr. Splaine under his employment agreement in connection with his resignation on December 31, 2015.


34



PERQUISITES
 
Name
 
Calendar or Fiscal Year
 
Automobile Allowance ($)
 
Long Term Care ($)
 
Club Dues ($)
 
Executive Health Exam ($)
 
Total Perquisites and Other Personal Benefits ($)
Kevin Cummings
 
2015
 
9,839

 
8,107

 
3,282

 

 
21,228

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Domenick A. Cama
 
2015
 
4,354

 
9,899

 
4,437

 
4,514

 
23,204

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Richard S. Spengler
 
2015
 
4,728

 
2,901

 
1,950

 

 
9,579

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Paul Kalamaras
 
2015
 
5,923

 
12,262

 
876

 

 
19,061

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sean Burke
 
2015
 

 

 

 

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Thomas F. Splaine, Jr.
 
2015
 

 
12,301

 

 
6,345

 
18,646




35



Plan-Based Awards. The following table sets forth certain information as to grants during calendar 2015 of plan-based awards to the Named Executive Officers under the Executive Officer Annual Incentive Plan.
GRANTS OF PLAN-BASED AWARDS TABLE FOR 2015
 
 
 
Estimated Payouts Under Non-Equity Incentive Plan Awards (1)
 
Estimated Future Payouts Under Equity Incentive Plan Awards (2)
 
All Other Stock Awards Number of Shares of Units (#)
All Other
Option
Awards
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Options
(#)
Exercise or Base Price of Option Awards ($/Sh)
Grant Date Fair Value of Stock and Option Awards ($) (3)
 
 
Grant Date
Name
Threshold
($) 
Target
($)
Maximum
($)
Threshold
(#) 
Target
(#)
Maximum
(#)
Kevin Cummings
 
2/23/2015
1,266,923

1,485,000

2,076,923




 


$

$

 
 
6/23/2015



50,000

250,000


 
750,000


$

$
12,540,000

 
 
6/23/2015






 

1,333,333

$
12.54

$
4,159,999

Domenick A. Cama
 
2/23/2015
684,139

801,900

1,121,539




 


$

$

 
 
6/23/2015



40,000

200,000


 
600,000


$

$
10,032,000

 
 
6/23/2015






 

1,066,666

$
12.54

$
3,327,998

Richard S. Spengler
 
2/23/2015
361,696

408,583

535,846




 


$

$

 
 
6/23/2015



26,666

133,333


 
400,000


$

$
6,687,996

 
 
6/23/2015






 

713,333

$
12.54

$
2,225,599

Paul Kalamaras
 
2/23/2015
349,079

394,330

517,154




 


$

$

 
 
6/23/2015



26,666

133,333


 
400,000


$

$
6,687,996

 
 
6/23/2015






 

713,333

$
12.54

$
2,225,599

Sean Burke
 
2/23/2015
254,423

287,404

376,923




 


$

$

 
 
6/23/2015



23,333

116,667


 
350,000


$

$
5,852,004

 
 
6/23/2015






 

626,666

$
12.54

$
1,955,198

Thomas F. Splaine, Jr. (4)
 
6/23/2015






 
50,000


$

$
627,000

 
 
6/23/2015






 

60,000

$
12.54

$
187,200

(1)
Amounts shown assume achievement of 100% of individual goals and objectives. The range of estimated possible payouts reflects payouts under the Executive Officer Annual Incentive Plan.
(2)
Represents the number of restricted stock awards that may vest if performance goals are achieved over a three-year period 2015-2017 at the stated levels.
(3)
Represents the grant date fair value of the awards determined in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. Assumptions used in the calculation of these amounts are included in Note 11 to Investors Bancorp's audited financial statements for the calendar year ended December 31, 2015 included in Investors Bancorp's Annual Report on 10K. The fair value of the stock option awards was $3.12 as computed in accordance with FASB ASC 718.
(4)
On December 31, 2015, Mr. Splaine resigned from employment with Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank and forfeited his unvested stock option and restricted stock awards.
For a narrative description of the material factors necessary to an understanding of the information disclosed in the Summary Compensation Table and in the Grants of Plan-Based Awards Table for 2015, please see “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” above.  

36



Outstanding Equity Awards at Year End. The following table sets forth information with respect to outstanding equity awards as of December 31, 2015 for the Named Executive Officers.
OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS AT DECEMBER 31, 2015
 
 
 
Option Awards
 
Stock Awards 
 
Name
 
Grant Date
 
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Exercisable 
 
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)(1)
Unexercisable
 
Option Exercise Price ($)
 
Option Expiration Date (2) 
 
Number of Shares or Units of Stock That Have Not Vested (#) (1) 
 
Market Value  of Shares or Units of Stock That Have not Vested ($) (3)
 
Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Number of 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 ($) (3)
Kevin Cummings
 
11/20/06
 
1,147,500

 

 
5.98

 
11/20/16
 

 

 

 

 
 
6/23/15
 

 
1,333,333

 
12.54

 
6/23/25
 
750,000

 
$
9,330,000

 
250,000

 
$
3,110,000

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Domenick A. Cama
 
11/20/06
 
1,020,000

 

 
5.98

 
11/20/16
 

 

 

 

 
 
6/23/15
 

 
1,066,666

 
12.54

 
6/23/25
 
600,000

 
$
7,464,000

 
200,000

 
$
2,488,000

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Richard S. Spengler
 
11/20/06
 
110,000

 

 
5.98

 
11/20/16
 

 

 

 

 
 
6/23/15
 

 
713,333

 
12.54

 
6/23/25
 
400,000

 
$
4,976,000

 
133,333

 
$
1,658,662

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Paul Kalamaras
 
11/18/08
 
182,000

 

 
5.37

 
11/18/18
 

 

 

 

 
 
6/23/15
 

 
713,333

 
12.54

 
6/23/25
 
400,000

 
$
4,976,000

 
133,333

 
$
1,658,662

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sean Burke
 
6/23/15
 

 
626,666

 
12.54

 
6/23/25
 
350,000

 
$
4,354,000

 
116,667

 
$
1,451,337

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Thomas F. Splaine (5)
 
11/20/06
 
446,250

 

 
5.98

 
3/30/2016
 

 

 

 

 
(1)
Stock option and restricted stock awards generally vest over a seven-year period commencing on the first anniversary of the date granted, however, if certain performance goals are achieved the vesting will be accelerated by two years commencing in the year in which the performance goal is achieved.
(2)
Stock options generally expire if unexercised 10 years after the grant date.
(3)
Amounts shown are based on the fair market value of Investors Bancorp common stock on December 31, 2015 of $12.44.
(4)
Amounts shown represent the number of stock awards that may vest if performance goals are achieved over a three-year period 2015-2017 at Target level.
(5)
Mr. Splaine’s plan-based awards under the 2015 Equity Plan were forfeited as a result of his resignation on December 31, 2015.
 




37



Option Exercises and Stock Vested. The following table provides information concerning stock option exercises and the vesting of stock awards for each Named Executive Officer during 2015.
OPTION EXERCISES AND STOCK VESTED AT DECEMBER 31, 2015
 
 
 
Option Awards
 
 
Stock Awards 
 
Name
 
Number of Shares Acquired on Exercise ($)
 
Value Realized on Exercise ($)
 
Number of Shares Acquired on Vesting (#) 
 
Value Realized on Vesting ($)
Kevin Cummings
 

 

 

 

Domenick A. Cama
 

 

 

 

Richard S. Spengler
 

 

 

 

Paul Kalamaras
 
175,000

 
$
1,164,922

 

 

Thomas F. Splaine, Jr.
 

 

 

 

 
Pension Benefits. The table below shows the present value of accumulated benefits payable to each of the Named Executive Officers, including the number of years of service credited to each such named executive officer, under our pension plans determined using interest rate and mortality rate assumptions consistent with those used in Investors Bancorp’s financial statements. For a narrative description of each applicable plan, please see “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” above.
PENSION BENEFITS AT OR FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015
 
Name
 
Plan Name
 
Number of Years Credited Service($)(1)
 
Present Value of Accumulated Benefit ($) (2)
 
Payment During Last Year ($)
Kevin Cummings
 
Defined Benefit Plan
 
11.5

 
527,000

 

 
 
SERP I and SERP II
 
11.5

 
13,838,000

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Domenick A. Cama
 
Defined Benefit Plan
 
25.0

 
968,000

 

 
 
SERP I and SERP II
 
25.0

 
7,144,000

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Richard S. Spengler
 
Defined Benefit Plan
 
30.0

 
790,000

 

 
 
SERP I and SERP II
 
30.0

 
2,093,000

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Paul Kalamaras
 
Defined Benefit Plan
 
6.3

 
207,000

 

 
 
SERP I and SERP II
 
6.3

 
2,201,000

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sean Burke
 
Defined Benefit Plan
 

 

 

 
 
SERP I and SERP II
 

 

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Thomas F. Splaine, Jr.
 
Defined Benefit Plan
 
10.0

 
245,000

 

 
 
SERP I and SERP II
 
10.0

 
317,000

 

 
(1)
The number of years of credited service represents all years of service, including years following the change in benefit formula for the Defined Benefit Plan on January 1, 2006. For Messrs. Cama and Spengler, credited service years include qualified years served at other financial institutions that participated in the Defined Benefit Plan, formerly known as the Financial Institutions Retirement Fund.
(2)
The figures shown are determined as of the plan’s measurement date of December 31, 2015 for purposes of Investors Bancorp’s audited financial statements. For discount rate and other assumptions used for this purpose, please refer to Note 11 to the audited financial statements included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015.

 

38



Nonqualified Deferred Compensation. The following table sets forth information with respect to the Supplemental ESOP portion of SERP I at and for the year ended December 31, 2015 for the Named Executive Officers. For a narrative description of SERP I, please see “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” above.
NONQUALIFIED DEFERRED COMPENSATION AT OR FOR THE YEAR ENDED
DECEMBER 31, 2015
 
Name
 
Plan Name
 
Executive Contributions in Last Year ($)
 
Registrant Contributions in Last Year ($)(1) 
 
Aggregate Earnings (Loss) in Last Year ($)(2) 
 
Aggregate Withdrawals/Distributions ($)
 
Aggregate Balance at Last Year-End ($)(3) 
Kevin Cummings
 
SERP I
 

 
151,859

 
139,784

 

 
1,588,974

Domenick A. Cama
 
SERP I
 

 
81,567

 
68,323

 

 
783,992

Richard S. Spengler
 
SERP I
 

 
36,341

 
23,500

 

 
277,948

Paul Kalamaras
 
SERP I
 

 
33,497

 
14,826

 

 
185,923

Sean Burke
 
SERP I
 

 

 

 

 

Thomas F. Splaine, Jr.
 
SERP I
 

 
24,296

 
10,964

 

 
137,013

 
(1)
The value of the non-qualified Supplemental ESOP contribution made pursuant to SERP I in calendar 2015 is based on the fair market value of Investors Bancorp common stock on December 31, 2015 of $12.44. These contributions are included in the Summary Compensation Table.
(2)
The aggregate earnings (loss) for the Supplemental ESOP and Retirement Plan reflect the change in value of phantom shares issued prior to calendar 2015, based on the fair market value of Investors Bancorp common stock on December 31, 2015 of $12.44. This amount is not included in the Summary Compensation Table because the rate of earnings was not “above-market,” as defined by the SEC.
(3)
The aggregate balances reported for the Supplemental ESOP Plan are based on the market value of Investors Bancorp common stock on December 31, 2015 of $12.44. For Messrs. Cummings, Cama, Spengler, Kalamaras and Splaine, $976,054, $486,709, $179,037, $133,875 and $95,845, respectively, of their total aggregate balance was previously reported as compensation to them in our Summary Compensation Tables for previous years.
Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control. At December 31, 2015, Investors Bancorp has entered into employment agreements with Messrs. Cummings, Cama, Spengler, Kalamaras and Burke. A narrative description of the material terms of the agreements is set forth in “Compensation Discussion and Analysis.” The table below reflects the amount of compensation and benefits payable to each Named Executive Officer pursuant to his employment agreement in the event of termination of his employment. No payments are required under the employment agreements due to the Named Executive Officers’ voluntary termination prior to a change in control. The amount of compensation payable to each Named Executive Officer upon: (i) retirement; (ii) early retirement; (iii) involuntary termination (other than for cause); (iv) termination following a change of control; and (v) in the event of disability is shown below. The amounts shown assume that such termination was effective as of December 31, 2015, and thus includes amounts earned through such time and are estimates of the amounts that would be paid to the Named Executive Officer upon termination. The amounts shown relating to unvested stock options and restricted stock awards are based on the fair market value of Investors Bancorp common stock on December 31, 2015 of $12.44 per share. Messrs. Cummings and Cama are entitled to tax indemnification payments for any excess parachute payments under Section 280G of the Internal Revenue Code. With respect to the change in control benefits payable to Messrs. Spengler, Kalamaras and Burke, the amounts shown in the table below do not take into account any reductions that may be required in order to comply with the Internal Revenue Code Section 280G net best benefit provision in each of their employment agreements. The actual amounts to be paid out can only be determined at the time of such executive’s date of termination with Investors Bancorp. The following table does not include amounts payable upon termination of employment under SERP I and SERP II that are vested as of December 31, 2015 because the present value of the accumulated vested benefits under each of those plans as of December 31, 2015 is set forth in the tables above. The table below does not reflect the potential payments upon termination or change in control to Mr. Splaine because he resigned from employment with Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank on December 31, 2015. Please see the Compensation Discussion and Analysis and the Summary Compensation Table above for further details regarding the amounts payable to Mr. Splaine in connection with his resignation.
 

39



POTENTIAL PAYMENTS UPON TERMINATION OR CHANGE IN CONTROL
AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2015
 
 
 
Mr.  Cummings
 
Mr. Cama
 
Mr.  Spengler
 
Mr.  Kalamaras
 
Mr. Burke
 
Mr.  Splaine
Retirement (1)
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Retiree Health/Life Insurance
 

 

 

 

 

 

Stock Option Vesting
 

 

 

 

 

 

Restricted Stock Vesting
 

 

 

 

 

 

Early Retirement (1)
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Retiree Health/Life Insurance
 

 

 

 

 

 

Stock Option Vesting
 

 

 

 

 

 

Restricted Stock Vesting
 

 

 

 

 

 

Disability
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Salary Continuation (2)
 
2,384,010

 
1,489,010

 
1,034,010

 
989,010

 
664,010

 

Stock Option Vesting
 

 

 

 

 

 

Restricted Stock Vesting
 
12,440,000

 
9,952,000

 
6,634,663

 
6,634,663

 
5,805,337

 

Other benefits (3)
 
21,884

 
22,780

 
13,063

 
6,941

 
17,830

 

Death
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 
Salary Continuation (5)
 
1,000,000

 
675,000

 
430,000

 
415,000

 
400,000

 

Stock Option Vesting
 

 

 

 

 

 

Restricted Stock Vesting
 
12,440,000

 
9,952,000

 
6,634,663

 
6,634,663

 
5,802,337

 

Other benefits (3)
 
34,185

 
34,185

 
22,474

 
144

 
34,185

 

Discharge w/o Cause or Resignation w/ Good Reason-no Change in Control
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Stock Option Vesting
 

 

 

 

 

 

Restricted Stock Vesting
 

 

 

 

 

 

Salary and Cash Incentive (6)
 
9,230,769

 
5,389,616

 
2,897,539

 
2,793,669

 
2,330,770

 
1,062,000

Other benefits (3)
 
131,302

 
136,678

 
83,598

 
46,865

 
110,402

 
235,957

Excess Pension Benefit (4)(6)
 
4,017,541

 
2,031,398

 
859,370

 
886,402

 

 

Discharge w/o Cause or Resignation w/ Good Reason-Change in Control-related
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Stock Option Vesting
 

 

 

 

 

 

Restricted Stock Vesting
 
12,440,000

 
9,952,000

 
6,634,663

 
6,634,663

 
5,805,337

 

Salary and Cash Incentive (6)
 
9,230,769

 
5,389,616

 
2,897,539

 
2,793,669

 
2,330,770

 

Other benefits (3)
 
131,302

 
136,678

 
83,598

 
46,865

 
110,402

 

Excess Pension Benefit (4)(6)
 
4,017,541

 
2,031,398

 
859,370

 
886,402

 

 

Tax Indemnification Payment (7)
 
2,985,515

 
1,573,018

 

 

 

 

 
(1)
As of December 31, 2015, none of the Named Executive Officers were eligible for early retirement or retirement.
(2)
Upon disability, the Named Executive Officer is entitled to base salary for the longer of the remaining term of his employment agreement or one year. Such benefit is reduced by the amount paid under our disability plan or policy, which is not reflected in this table.
(3)
Other benefits include amounts for benefits in effect prior to termination; life, medical, dental, disability and long term care, and is calculated based on the terms specified in the employment agreements.
(4)
Each employment agreement provides that Investors Bancorp will pay the excess, if any of: (i) the present value of benefits to which the Named Executive Officer would be entitled to under the defined benefit plans if he had continued working for Investors Bancorp for 36 months and (ii) the present value of the benefits to which he is actually entitled.
(5)
This amount is payable according to normal payroll practices for one year following the Named Executive Officer's date of death.
(6)
This amount is paid in a lump sum following the Named Executive Officer's date of termination.
(7)
This amount is generally payable in a lump sum to the Named Executive Officer following the date of termination, but it may be timely paid directly to the applicable taxing authorities on behalf of the named executive officer.

40




Director Compensation
Elements of Director Compensation
Director Fees. Each of the individuals who serve as a director of Investors Bancorp also serves as a director of Investors Bank. The non-employee directors of Investors Bancorp and Investors Bank are compensated separately for service on each entity’s board. Each non-employee director of Investors Bancorp is paid a monthly retainer of $2,000 ($4,000 per month for the Chairman), and $2,500 for each committee meeting attended. The Chairman of the Audit Committee, Compensation and Benefits Committee, Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and Risk Oversight Committee are each paid an annual retainer of $10,000. Each non-employee director of Investors Bank is paid a monthly retainer of $4,000 ($8,000 per month for the Chairman) and $2,100 for each Board meeting attended ($4,200 per meeting for the Chairman). Employee directors are not compensated for serving as directors.
The Board of Directors establishes non-employee director compensation based on recommendations of the Compensation and Benefits Committee. Periodically, the Compensation and Benefits Committee engages the services of GK Partners and its external surveys to assist in the committee’s review of director compensation. The Compensation and Benefits Committee did not recommend any changes to the compensation payable to non-employee directors in 2015.
Stock Option and Stock Award Program. At the annual meeting of stockholders held on June 9, 2015, stockholders of the Company approved the Investors Bancorp, Inc. 2015 Equity Plan, as described above in "Compensation Discussion and Analysis." Directors are eligible to participate in the 2015 Equity Incentive Plan. Under this plan, individuals may receive awards of Investors Bancorp common stock (restricted stock) and grants of options to purchase shares of Investors Bancorp common stock at a specified exercise price during a specified time period. The Compensation and Benefits Committee engaged GK Partners, an independent compensation consultant to assess the Committee’s recommendations for granting stock options and restricted stock awards to non-employee directors. In determining the amount of restricted stock awards and stock options non-employee directors would receive, the Compensation and Benefits Committee considered the Board’s role in setting the strategic direction for the Company, most notably, their role in completing the mutual to stock public offering in 2014. The Committee also considered the directors’ past contributions, their industry knowledge, their financial expertise and the role they would play in the Company’s future. The Committee also reviewed survey data regarding awards made to directors of other companies that had undertaken a mutual to stock public offering. GK Partners concluded that the Committee’s recommendations for the awards were fair and reasonable and intended to align the economic interest of the directors with that of other shareholders consistent with prevailing director compensation practices in the competitive marketplace for similarly situated public companies.
The total restricted stock awards granted to non-employee directors are shown below:
 
 
 
 
Stock Awards Number of Shares of Units (#)
Grant Date Fair Value of Stock Awards ($) (1)
Outstanding Unvested Stock Awards at December 31, 2015 (#)
 
 
Grant Date
Name
Robert C. Albanese
 
6/23/2015
 
100,000

1,254,000

100,000

Dennis M. Bone
 
6/23/2015
 
100,000

1,254,000

100,000

Doreen R. Byrnes
 
6/23/2015
 
100,000

1,254,000

100,000

Robert M. Cashill
 
6/23/2015
 
150,000

1,881,000

150,000

William V. Cosgrove
 
6/23/2015
 
100,000

1,254,000

100,000

Brian D. Dittenhafer
 
6/23/2015
 
150,000

1,881,000

150,000

Brendan J. Dugan
 
6/23/2015
 
100,000

1,254,000

100,000

James J. Garibaldi
 
6/23/2015
 
100,000

1,254,000

100,000

Michele N. Siekerka
 
6/23/2015
 
100,000

1,254,000

100,000

James H. Ward
 
6/23/2015
 
100,000

1,254,000

100,000

(1)
The amounts in this column reflect the aggregate grant date fair value computed in accordance with FASB ASC 718, of restricted stock and stock option awards granted pursuant to the 2015 Equity Incentive Plan. Assumptions used in the calculation of these amounts are included in Note 11 to Investors Bancorp’s audited financial statements for the calendar year ended December 31, 2015 included in Investors Bancorp’s Annual Report on Form 10-K.
The aggregate total stock option grants to non-employee directors are shown below:

41



 
 
 
 
Stock Options (#)
Exercise Price
Grant Date Fair Value($) (1)
Outstanding Unexercised Stock Options at December 31, 2015 (#)
 
 
Grant Date
Name
Robert C. Albanese
 
6/23/2015
 
250,000

$
12.54

780,000

250,000

Dennis M. Bone
 
6/23/2015
 
250,000

$
12.54

780,000

250,000

Doreen R. Byrnes
 
6/23/2015
 
250,000

$
12.54

780,000

250,000

Robert M. Cashill
 
6/23/2015
 
250,000

$
12.54

780,000

250,000

William V. Cosgrove
 
6/23/2015
 
250,000

$
12.54

780,000

250,000

Brian D. Dittenhafer
 
6/23/2015
 
250,000

$
12.54

780,000

250,000

Brendan J. Dugan
 
6/23/2015
 
250,000

$
12.54

780,000

250,000

James J. Garibaldi
 
6/23/2015
 
250,000

$
12.54

780,000

250,000

Michele N. Siekerka
 
6/23/2015
 
250,000

$
12.54

780,000

250,000

James H. Ward
 
6/23/2015
 
250,000

$
12.54

780,000

250,000

(1)
The amounts in this column reflect the aggregate grant date fair value computed in accordance with FASB ASC 718, of restricted stock and stock option awards granted pursuant to the 2015 Equity Incentive Plan. Assumptions used in the calculation of these amounts are included in Note 11 to Investors Bancorp’s audited financial statements for the calendar year ended December 31, 2015 included in Investors Bancorp’s Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Mr. Albanese and Ms. Siekerka each have outstanding stock options that were granted under the Roma Financial Corporation 2008 Equity Incentive Plan. Please see the Directors’ Compensation Table for further details regarding each director’s outstanding stock option and unvested restricted stock awards under such plans.
Director Benefits. For directors and their spouses or spousal equivalents as of 2007, Investors Bank sponsors a long-term care program. Directors become eligible to participate after one year of service either on the Board of Directors, through past employment or as counsel prior to becoming a director. Each individual policy is owned by the covered person. Investors Bank pays all premiums under the long term care program but will stop paying premiums in the event of the participant’s: (i) resignation from the Board of Directors prior to attaining normal retirement age (except for health reasons); (ii) relocation outside of the country; or (iii) death. Spousal coverage will be terminated upon: (i) a participant’s resignation prior to normal retirement age (except for health reasons); (ii) divorce from the participant; (iii) the participant no longer qualifying for coverage; (iv) the spouse’s permanent relocation outside of the country; or (v) death. Participants who cannot be insured through an insurance company under the long-term care program will be self-insured by Investors Bank.
Amended and Restated Director Retirement Plan. Investors Bank maintains the Amended and Restated Director Retirement Plan. Effective November 21, 2006, the Amended and Restated Director Retirement Plan was frozen such that no new benefits accrued under, and no new directors were eligible to participate in, the plan. A director who: (i) was not an active employee of Investors Bank upon retirement from board service; (ii) has provided at least ten years of “cumulative service” (service on the board and, if applicable, as an employee or counsel); and (iii) retired at age 65 or later or as a result of disability, was eligible to participate in the plan prior to November 21, 2006. Directors Cashill and Dittenhafer are the only directors currently participating in the plan.
An eligible director with at least 15 years of cumulative service will be entitled to an annual retirement benefit equal to the sum of 60% of the annual retainer and 13 times the regular board meeting fee in effect for the calendar year preceding the director’s year of retirement. A director with at least 10 years of cumulative service but less than 15 years will be entitled to 40% of the sum of the annual retainer and 13 times the regular meeting fee in effect for the calendar year preceding the director’s year of retirement, plus a pro-rated percentage of 20% of the sum of the annual retainer and 13 times the regular board meeting fee in effect for the calendar year preceding the director’s year of retirement. The plan includes the annual retainer and board fees, if any, paid by Investors Bancorp in determining a director’s retirement benefit.
In the event of a change in control, a director who has not yet attained ten years of service will be deemed to have ten years of service and attained age 65 in order to calculate his benefit under the plan. In the event a director dies prior to retirement, the director’s beneficiary will be entitled to benefit payments in the form of a joint and survivor benefit payable at 100% of the amount paid to the director. Retirement benefits may be paid, at the director’s election, either in monthly payments until the eligible director’s death, or as a joint and survivor form of benefit payable for the lifetime of the eligible director and, upon the eligible director’s death, at 50% of the benefit amount, to the director’s beneficiary, or a joint and survivor form of benefit payable for the lifetime of the director and, upon the director’s death, at 100% of the amount, to the director’s beneficiary during the beneficiary’s lifetime. In order to receive retirement benefits under the plan, the director must remain a director emeritus in good standing after

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retirement and must not engage in any business enterprise which competes with Investors Bank nor disclose any confidential information relative to the business of Investors Bank.
Deferred Directors Fee Plans. Investors Bank maintains the Investors Bank Deferred Directors Fee Plan. Each non-employee member of the Board of Directors of Investors Bank is eligible to participate in the plan and has the right to elect to defer the receipt of all or any part of the director fees earned as a member of the Board of Directors of Investors Bank. Compensation deferred under the plan and interest (at a rate equal to one and one-half percent below the Wall Street Journal prime rate) thereon is payable upon the earlier of the participant’s death, disability or separation from service. Such deferred compensation will be payable in a lump sum, unless the participant has elected payment in monthly installments over a period of up to ten years.
Investors Bancorp maintains the Investors Bancorp, Inc. Deferred Directors Fee Plan. Each non-employee member of the Board of Directors of Investors Bancorp is eligible to participate in the plan and has the right to elect to defer the receipt of all or any part of the director fees earned as a member of the Board of Directors of Investors Bancorp. Compensation deferred under the plan and interest (at a rate equal to one and one-half percent below the Wall Street Journal prime rate) thereon is payable upon the earlier of the participant’s death, disability or separation from service. Such deferred compensation will be payable in a lump sum, unless the participant has elected payment in monthly installments over a period of up to ten years.
Split Dollar Life Insurance Agreements. Mr. Albanese, Mr. Bone and Ms. Siekerka are each parties to individual split dollar life insurance agreements with Roma Bank, which were assumed by Investors Bank on December 6, 2013 in connection with the merger between Investors Bancorp and Roma Financial Corporation. Investors Bank owns a life insurance policy on the life of Messrs. Albanese, Bone and Ms. Siekerka. Under the agreement, upon the death of the director, the proceeds of the policy are divided between the director’s beneficiary, who is entitled to $100,000 on the director’s death, and Investors Bank, which is entitled to the remainder of the death benefit. The director has the right to designate the beneficiary who will receive his or her share of the proceeds payable upon death.
Summary of Directors’ Compensation. The following table sets forth for the year ended December 31, 2015 certain information as to total compensation paid to non-employee directors.
DIRECTORS’ COMPENSATION TABLE
 
Name
 
Investors
Bancorp  Fees
Earned or
Paid in Cash
($)
 
Investors  Bank
Fees Earned or
Paid in Cash
($) 
 
Stock
Awards
($) (1) 
 
Option
Awards
($) (2) 
 
Change in  Pension
Value and
Nonqualified
Deferred
Compensation
Earnings
($) 
 
All Other
Compensation
($) (3)  
 
Total
($) 
Robert C. Albanese
 
66,500

 
75,300

 
1,244,000

 
2,330,000

 

 
376

 
3,716,176

Dennis M. Bone
 
66,500

 
75,300

 
1,244,000

 
2,330,000

 

 
287

 
3,716,087

Doreen R. Byrnes
 
79,000

 
75,300

 
1,244,000

 
2,330,000

 

 
9,898

 
3,738,198

Robert M. Cashill
 
48,000

 
150,600

 
1,866,000

 
2,330,000

 

 
12,605

 
4,407,205

William V. Cosgrove
 
54,000

 
75,300

 
1,244,000

 
2,330,000

 

 
27,740

 
3,731,040

Brian D. Dittenhafer
 
79,000

 
75,300

 
1,866,000

 
2,330,000

 

 
13,392

 
4,363,692

Brendan J. Dugan
 
59,000

 
75,300

 
1,244,000

 
2,330,000

 

 

 
3,708,300

James J. Garibaldi
 
24,000

 
75,300

 
1,244,000

 
2,330,000

 

 

 
3,673,300

Michele N. Siekerka
 
46,500

 
75,300

 
1,244,000

 
2,330,000

 

 
252

 
3,696,052

James H. Ward
 
69,000

 
75,300

 
1,244,000

 
2,330,000

 

 

 
3,718,300

 
(1)
The amounts in this column reflect the aggregate grant date fair value computed in accordance with FASB ASC 718, of restricted stock and stock option awards granted pursuant to the 2015 Equity Plan. The grant date fair value for each option award and stock award was $3.12 and $12.54, respectively. Although the full grant date fair value of the stock awards and option awards is reflected in the above table as required by the SEC rules, the actual value of the awards, if any realized, depend on the director’s continued service with Investors Bancorp and the market value of Investors Bancorp common stock. Accordingly, there is no assurance that the value realized by a director will be at or near the estimated value reflected in the above table.

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(2)
Represents unvested option awards at December 31, 2015 under the 2015 Equity Inventive Plan. Messrs. Cashill and Cosgrove had fully vested unexercised stock option awards of 292,500 and 255,000 respectively, for stock option awards received as employees of Investors Bank at December 31, 2015. Mr. Dittenhafer had fully vested unexercised stock option awards of 124,529 at December 31, 2015. Mr. Albanese and Ms. Siekerka, who have no outstanding awards under the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan, had unexercised stock option awards of 35,302 and 70,606 options, respectively, at December 31, 2014, which were granted under the Roma Financial Corporation 2008 Equity Incentive Plan.
(3)
This amount includes perquisites and other personal benefits, or property, if the aggregate amount for each director is at least $10,000. Specifically, this amount represents the premiums paid for long term care coverage for Messrs. Cashill, Dittenhafer and Ms. Byrnes and their spouses or spousal equivalents. In addition, the amount includes automobile allowance and club dues for Mr. Cosgrove. For Messrs. Albanese, Bone and Ms. Siereka includes income on split dollar life insurance agreements.
Other Matters
Director Stock Ownership Requirements. The Board believes its directors should have a financial investment in Investors Bancorp to further align their interests with stockholders. Directors are expected to own at least 25,000 shares of common stock (excluding stock options). Stock holdings are expected to be achieved within five (5) years of either the implementation of the ownership guidelines or the starting date of the individual, whichever is later.

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PROPOSAL II—ADVISORY VOTE TO APPROVE EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The Compensation Discussion and Analysis appearing earlier in this Proxy Statement describes the executive compensation program and the compensation decisions made by the Compensation and Benefits Committee with respect to the Chief Executive Officer and other officers named in the Summary Compensation Table (who are referred to as the "Named Executive Officers").
This proposal, commonly known as a “Say on Pay” proposal, gives you as a stockholder the opportunity to vote on our executive pay program. In accordance with Section 14A of the Exchange Act, the Board of Directors is requesting stockholder to cast a non-binding advisory vote on the following resolution:
“RESOLVED, that the stockholders of Investors Bancorp, Inc. (“Investors”) approve the compensation paid to Investors’ Named Executive Officers, as disclosed in this Proxy Statement pursuant to the compensation disclosure rules of the SEC, including the Compensation Discussion and Analysis, the compensation tables and narrative accompanying the tables.”
Our executive compensation program is based on a pay for performance philosophy that is designed to support our business strategy and align the interests of our executives with our stockholders. The Board of Directors believes that the link between compensation and the achievement of our long- and short-term business goals has helped our financial performance over time, while not encouraging excessive risk taking.
For these reasons, the Board of Directors is requesting stockholders to support this proposal. While this advisory vote is non-binding, the Compensation and Benefits Committee and the Board of Directors value the views of the stockholders and will consider the outcome of this vote in future executive compensation decisions.
At the 2015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, the Board of Directors recommended, and the stockholders approved, a non-binding advisory vote in favor of holding an annual advisory vote on executive compensation. As a result, the Board of Directors determined that the Company will hold an annual advisory vote to approve executive compensation. The next stockholder vote on the frequency of future votes on executive compensation will occur at the 2021 annual meeting of stockholders.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE “FOR” APPROVAL OF THE COMPENSATION PAID TO INVESTORS BANCORP'S NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS.

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PROPOSAL III—RATIFICATION OF THE APPOINTMENT OF THE INDEPENDENT
REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Investors Bancorp’s independent registered public accounting firm for the year ended December 31, 2015 was KPMG LLP. The Audit Committee has re-appointed KPMG LLP to continue as the independent registered public accounting firm for Investors Bancorp for the year ending December 31, 2016, subject to the ratification by the stockholders at the Annual Meeting. Representatives of KPMG LLP are expected to attend the Annual Meeting. They will be given an opportunity to make a statement if they desire to do so and will be available to respond to appropriate questions.
Stockholder ratification of the appointment of KPMG LLP is not required by Investors Bancorp’s Bylaws or otherwise. However, the Board of Directors is submitting the appointment of the independent registered public accounting firm to the stockholders for ratification as a matter of good corporate practice. If the stockholders fail to ratify the appointment of KPMG LLP, the Audit Committee will reconsider whether it should select another independent registered public accounting firm. Even if the selection is ratified, the Audit Committee in its discretion may direct the appointment of a different independent registered public accounting firm at any time during the year if it determines that such a change is in the best interests of Investors Bancorp and its stockholders.
Audit Fees. The aggregate fees billed to Investors Bancorp for professional services rendered by KPMG LLP for the audit of the Investors Bancorp’s annual financial statements, review of the financial statements included in the Investors Bancorp’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and services that are normally provided by KPMG LLP in connection with statutory and regulatory filings and engagements were $1,260,000 and $1,015,000 during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
Audit Related Fees. The aggregate fees billed to Investors Bancorp for assurance and related services rendered by KPMG LLP that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit of and review of the financial statements and that are not already reported in “Audit Fees,” above, were $104,500 and $729,000 during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. These services included audits of employee benefit plans, acquisition and transaction related procedures for a subsidiary of the Company.
Tax Fees. The aggregate fees billed to Investors Bancorp for professional services rendered by KPMG LLP for tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning were $118,200 and $238,900 during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
All Other Fees. The aggregate fees billed to Investors Bancorp for compliance reviews was $60,000 during the year ended December 31, 2014. There were no “Other Fees” during the years ended December 31, 2015.
The Audit Committee has considered whether the provision of non-audit services is compatible with maintaining the independence of KPMG LLP. The Audit Committee concluded that performing such services does not affect the independence of KPMG LLP in performing its function as Investors Bancorp’s independent registered public accounting firm.
The Audit Committee has delegated to the Chair of the Audit Committee the authority to pre-approve audit and audit-related services between meetings of the Audit Committee, provided the Chair reports any such approvals to the full Audit Committee at its next meeting. The full Audit Committee pre-approves all other services to be performed by the independent registered public accounting firm and the related fees.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE “FOR” THE RATIFICATION OF
KPMG LLP AS THE INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM.

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OTHER MATTERS
As of the date of this document, the Board of Directors knows of no matters that will be presented for consideration at the Annual Meeting other than as described in this document. However, if any other matter shall properly come before the Annual Meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof and shall be voted upon, the proposed proxy will be deemed to confer authority to the individuals named as authorized therein to vote the shares represented by the proxy in accordance with their best judgment as to any matters that fall within the purposes set forth in the notice of Annual Meeting.
STOCKHOLDER PROPOSALS
To be eligible for inclusion in the proxy materials for next year’s annual meeting of stockholders under SEC Rule 14(a)-8, any stockholder proposal to take action at such meeting must be received at Investors Bancorp’s executive office, 101 JFK Parkway, Short Hills, New Jersey 07078, no later than December 15, 2016. Any such proposals shall be subject to the requirements of the proxy rules adopted under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
ADVANCE NOTICE OF BUSINESS TO BE CONDUCTED
AT AN ANNUAL MEETING
The Bylaws of Investors Bancorp also provide an advance notice procedure for certain business, or nominations to the Board of Directors, to be brought before an annual meeting of stockholders. In order for a stockholder to properly bring business before an annual meeting, the stockholder must give written notice to the Corporate Secretary of Investors Bancorp not less than 90 days prior to the date of Investors Bancorp’s proxy materials for the preceding year’s annual meeting; provided, however, that if the date of the annual meeting is advanced more than 30 days prior to or delayed by more than 30 days after the anniversary of the preceding year’s annual meeting, notice by the stockholder to be timely must be so delivered not later than the close of business on the tenth day following the day on which public announcement of the date of such annual meeting is first made. The notice must include the stockholder’s name, record address, and number of shares owned, describe briefly the proposed business, the reasons for bringing the business before the annual meeting, and any material interest of the stockholder in the proposed business. Nothing in this paragraph shall be deemed to require Investors Bancorp to include in its proxy statement and proxy relating to an annual meeting any stockholder proposal under SEC Rule 14a-8. In accordance with the foregoing, in order for a proposal or a nomination to be brought before the annual meeting of stockholders to be held following the year ending December 31, 2016, notice must be provided to the Corporate Secretary by January 13, 2017.
THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS ARE AVAILABLE ON THE “GOVERNANCE DOCUMENTS” SECTION OF THE “INVESTOR RELATIONS” PAGE OF THE INVESTORS BANK’S WEBSITE AT WWW.MYINVESTORSBANK.COM :
 
 
AUDIT COMMITTEE CHARTER
 
 
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS COMMITTEE CHARTER
 
 
NOMINATING AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE CHARTER
 
 
INVESTORS BANCORP’S CORPORATE GOVERNANCE GUIDELINES
 
 
INVESTORS BANCORP’S CODE OF BUSINESS CONDUCT AND ETHICS
 
 
INVESTORS BANCORP’S INDEPENDENCE STANDARDS
COPIES OF EACH WILL BE FURNISHED WITHOUT CHARGE UPON WRITTEN REQUEST TO THE CORPORATE SECRETARY, INVESTORS BANCORP, INC., 101 JFK PARKWAY, SHORT HILLS, NEW JERSEY 07078.
AN ADDITIONAL COPY OF INVESTORS BANCORP’S ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K (WITHOUT EXHIBITS) FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015, AS FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION, WILL BE FURNISHED WITHOUT CHARGE TO STOCKHOLDERS UPON WRITTEN REQUEST

47



TO THE CORPORATE SECRETARY, INVESTORS BANCORP, INC., 101 JFK PARKWAY, SHORT HILLS, NEW JERSEY 07078. THE FORM 10-K IS ALSO AVAILABLE FREE OF CHARGE ON THE “INVESTOR RELATIONS” PAGE OF THE INVESTORS BANK’S WEBSITE AT WWW.MYINVESTORSBANK.COM.


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