Form 4: Athira Pharma Executive Granted Stock Options and Restricted Stock Units

Mark Worthington, General Counsel and CCO of Athira Pharma, received 110,000 stock options and 110,000 restricted stock units on October 1, 2024.

Summary

• On October 1, 2024, Mark Worthington, the General Counsel and CCO of Athira Pharma, was granted 110,000 restricted stock units (RSUs) and 110,000 stock options.
• The exercise price for the stock options is $0.4499.
• The RSUs and stock options vest in three equal installments on December 31, 2024, June 30, 2025, and December 31, 2025, contingent upon continued service with the company.

Sentiment

Score: 7

Explanation: The document reflects a standard executive compensation practice, indicating a stable and ongoing operation. The vesting schedule suggests a long-term commitment, which is generally viewed positively.

Positives

• The grant of RSUs and stock options to a key executive like the General Counsel and CCO suggests the company is incentivizing leadership to drive future performance.
• The vesting schedule encourages long-term commitment from the executive.

Industry Context

Stock option and RSU grants are common practices in the pharmaceutical industry to attract, retain, and incentivize key executives. The vesting schedules are designed to align executive interests with long-term shareholder value.

Comparison to Industry Standards

• Stock option grants are a standard component of executive compensation packages in the biotech industry.
• Companies like Biogen, Amgen, and Gilead Sciences also utilize stock options and RSUs to incentivize their executives.
• The vesting schedule of one-third annually is a typical vesting arrangement.

Stakeholder Impact

• Shareholders may view the grant of stock options and RSUs as a positive sign, aligning management's interests with the company's long-term success.
• Employees may see this as a sign of company stability and commitment to its leadership.

Key Dates