exv10w4



 





EXHIBIT 10.4




AMENDED and RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT



AGREEMENT made this 15th day of March, 2007 (effective retroactively to October 31,
2004), by and among BICUS SERVICES CORPORATION, a Pennsylvania corporation, MERCER INSURANCE GROUP,
INC, a Pennsylvania corporation, MERCER INSURANCE COMPANY, a Pennsylvania corporation, and David B.
Merclean (“Executive”).




     Executive entered into an Employment Agreement dated October 31, 2004 with Bicus Services
Corporation, Mercer Insurance Group, Inc., and Mercer Insurance Company (the “Original Agreement”).
The parties recently discovered several drafting errors in the Original Agreement. This Amended
and Restated Employment Agreement, which is effective retroactively to October 31, 2004, is
intended to correct those drafting errors and to supersede and replace the Original Agreement in
its entirety.



     Bicus Services Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mercer Insurance Company, desires to
employ Mr. Merclean, and Mr. Merclean is willing to serve Bicus Services Corporation on the terms
and conditions herein provided.



     In order to effect the foregoing, the parties hereto desire to enter into an employment
agreement on the terms and conditions set forth below. Accordingly, in consideration of the
premises and the respective covenants and agreements of the parties contained herein, and intending
to be legally bound hereby, the parties hereto agree as follows:



     1. Definitions. Each capitalized word and term used herein shall have the meaning
ascribed to it in the glossary appended hereto, unless the context in which such word or term is
used otherwise clearly requires. Such glossary is incorporated herein by reference and made a part
hereof.



     2. Employment. The Company hereby agrees to employ the Executive, and the Executive
hereby agrees to serve the Company, on the terms and conditions set forth herein.



     3. Term of Agreement. The Executive’s employment under this Agreement shall commence
on the date of this Agreement and, except as otherwise provided herein, shall continue until March
31, 2007; provided, however, that commencing on March 31, 2005 and each March 31 thereafter, the
term of this Agreement shall automatically be extended for one additional year beyond the term
otherwise established unless, prior to such March 31st date, the Company shall not have given a
Notice of Extension.



     4. Position and Duties. The Executive shall serve as Senior Vice President and Chief
Financial Officer of the Company, and he shall have such responsibilities, duties and authority as
may, from time to time, be generally associated with such positions. In addition, the Executive
shall serve in such capacity, with respect to each Subsidiary or Affiliate, as the Board of
Directors of each such Subsidiary or Affiliate shall designate from time to time. During the term
of this Agreement, he shall devote substantially all of his working time and efforts to the
business and affairs of the Company, the Subsidiaries and the Affiliate; provided, however, that
nothing herein shall be construed as precluding him from devoting a reasonable amount of time to
civic, charitable, trade association, and similar activities, at least to the extent he is
presently devoting time.



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     5. Compensation and Related Matters.



     Base Compensation. During the period of the Executive’s employment hereunder, the
Company shall pay to him annual base compensation of $200,000.



     Thereafter, the Board of Directors of the Company shall periodically review the Executive’s
employment performance, in accordance with policies generally in effect from time to time, for
possible merit or cost-of-living increases in such base compensation. Except for a reduction which
is proportionate to a company-wide reduction in executive pay, the annual base compensation paid to
the Executive in any period shall not be less than the annual base compensation paid to him in any
prior period. The frequency and manner of payment of such base compensation shall be in accordance
with the Company’s executive payroll practices from time to time in effect. Nothing herein shall
be construed as precluding the Executive from entering into any salary reduction or deferral plan
or arrangement during the term of this Agreement; provided, however, that his base compensation
shall be determined without regard to any such salary reduction or deferral for purposes of
calculating the amount of any compensation and benefits to which he or his surviving spouse may be
entitled under Paragraph 6, 7, 10, or 11 following his termination of employment. The amounts set
forth in the first sentence of this subparagraph shall be pro rated to the extent such period is
less than a year.



          (a) Incentive Compensation. During the period of the Executive’s employment
hereunder, he shall be entitled to participate in all incentive plans, stock option plans, stock
appreciation rights plans, and similar arrangements maintained by the Company or its Affiliates for
executive officers on a basis and at award levels consistent and commensurate with his position and
duties hereunder.




          (b) Employee Benefit Plans and Other Plans or Arrangements. The Executive shall be
entitled to participate in all Employee Benefit Plans of the Company and its Affiliates on the same
basis as other executive officers of the Company. In addition, he shall be entitled to participate
in and enjoy any other plans and arrangements which provide for sick leave, vacation, sabbatical,
or personal days, , education payment or reimbursement, business-related seminars, and similar
fringe benefits provided to or for the executive officers of the Company and its Affiliates from
time to time, but at least to the extent he is presently entitled to participate in and enjoy such
plans and arrangements.




          (c) Expenses. During the period of the Executive’s employment hereunder, he shall be
entitled to receive prompt reimbursement for all reasonable and customary expenses, including
transportation expenses, incurred by him in performing services hereunder in accordance with the
general policies and procedures established by the Company.




     6. Termination By Reason of Disability.



          (a) In General. In the event the Executive becomes unable to perform his duties on a
full-time basis by reason of the occurrence of his Disability and, within 30 days after a Notice of
Termination is given, he shall not have returned to the full-time performance of such duties, his
employment may be terminated by the Company.




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          (b) Compensation and Benefits. In the event of the termination of the Executive’s
employment under Subparagraph (a), the Company shall pay or provide the compensation and benefits
set forth below:





               (1) The Executive shall be paid an amount per annum equal to the greater of (i) his
highest base compensation received during one of the two calendar years immediately
preceding the calendar year in which the Date of Termination occurs, or (ii) his base
compensation in effect immediately prior to the Date of Termination (or prior to any
reduction which entitled him to terminate his employment for Good Reason) for one year
beginning with such Date of Termination. The frequency and manner of payment of such
amounts shall be in accordance with the Company’s executive payroll practices from time to
time in effect.




               (2) The Executive shall be paid an amount equal to the higher of the aggregate
bonus(es), if any, paid to him with respect to one of the two years immediately preceding
the year in which the Date of Termination occurs. Such amount shall be paid to him in cash
on the first anniversary date of the Date of Termination.




               (3) The Executive shall be paid an amount equal to the highest annual contribution made
on his behalf (other than his own salary reduction contributions) to each tax-qualified and
non-qualified Defined Contribution Plan of the Company or its Affiliates with respect to the
year in which the Date of Termination occurs or one of the two years immediately preceding
such year. The amount separately determined for each such plan shall be aggregated and
shall be paid to him in cash on the first anniversary date of the Date of Termination.




               (4) The Executive shall accrue benefits equal to the excess of (i) the aggregate
retirement benefits he would have received under the terms of each tax-qualified and
non-qualified Defined Benefit Plan of the Company or its Affiliates as in effect immediately
prior to the Date of Termination had he (A) continued to be employed for one more year, and
(B) received (on a pro rated basis, as appropriate) the greater of (I) the highest
compensation taken into account under each such plan with respect to one of the two years
immediately preceding the year in which the Date of Termination occurs, or (II) his
annualized base compensation in effect immediately prior to the Date of Termination (or
prior to any reduction which entitled him to terminate his employment for Good Reason), over
(ii) the retirement benefits he actually receives under such plans. The frequency, manner
and extent of payment of such benefits shall be consistent with the terms of the plans to
which they relate and any elections made thereunder.




               (5) The Executive and his eligible dependents shall be entitled to continue to
participate at the same aggregate benefit levels, for one year and at no out-of-pocket or
tax cost to him, in the Welfare Benefit Plans in which he was a participant immediately
prior to the Date of Termination, to the extent permitted under the terms of such plans and
applicable law. To the extent the Company or its Affiliates are unable to provide for
continued participation in a Welfare Benefit Plan, it shall provide an equivalent benefit
directly at no out-of-pocket or tax cost to him. For purposes of the preceding two
sentences, the Company shall be deemed to have provided a benefit at no tax cost to him if
it pays an additional amount to him or on his behalf, with respect



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to those benefits which would otherwise be nontaxable to him, calculated in a manner
consistent with the provisions of Paragraph 12.



          (c) Adjustment to Certain Subparagraph (b) Compensation and Benefits. Notwithstanding
the provisions of Subparagraph (b)(5), the Company or its Affiliates’ obligation to pay or fund any
disability insurance premiums on behalf of the Executive shall be suspended while his Disability
continues, provided the cessation of payment or funding does not result in the termination of
disability benefits. Any amounts otherwise due under Subparagraph (b) shall be reduced (but not
below zero) by the dollar amount of disability benefits received by him pursuant to plans or
policies funded, directly at its cost, by the Company or its Affiliates.




          (d) Earlier Cessation of Certain Welfare Benefits. Notwithstanding the provisions of
Subparagraph (b)(5), neither the Company nor an Affiliate shall be required to provide, at its
cost, the welfare benefits covered therein after the later of (i) the attainment by the Executive
and his spouse (if any) of age 65, or (ii) the date specified in the relevant plan document for
benefit termination (assuming that he was employed until age 65 or the normal retirement date, if
any, specified in such document).




          (e) Death During Remaining Term of Agreement.





               (1) In the event the Executive dies during the remaining term of this Agreement
following his termination for Disability and he is survived by a spouse, the compensation
and benefits remaining to be paid and provided under Subparagraph (b) shall be unaffected by
his death and shall be paid and provided to her or on her behalf; provided, however, that
the extent of her rights to the accrued benefits described in Subparagraph (b)(4) shall be
determined by reference to the relevant plan provisions and any elections made under such
plans; and provided further, that neither the Company nor an Affiliate shall be required to
provide continued benefits with respect to her deceased husband; and provided further, that
in no event shall the Company or an Affiliate be required to provide, at its cost, the other
welfare benefits described in Subparagraph (b)(5) to such spouse and her eligible dependents
after the earlier of (i) her death, or (ii) the later of (A) her attainment of age 65, or
(B) the date specified in the relevant plan document for benefit termination (assuming that
the Executive was employed until age 65 or the normal retirement date, if any, specified in
such document).




               (2) In the event the Executive dies during the remaining term of this Agreement
following his termination for Disability and he is not survived by a spouse, (i) the Company
or an Affiliate shall thereafter make the remaining payments described in Subparagraphs
(b)(1) through (b)(3) directly to his estate, (ii) the extent of the rights of any person to
the accrued benefits described in Subparagraph (b)(4) shall be determined by reference to
the relevant plan provisions and any elections made under such plans, and (iii) the Company
and its Affiliates’ obligation to provide continued benefits under Subparagraph (b)(5) shall
terminate.



          (f) Compensation and Benefits Upon Expiration of Remaining Term of Agreement. Upon
the expiration of the remaining term of this Agreement following the Executive’s termination for
Disability, and provided his Disability then continues, he shall be entitled to receive the
compensation and benefits provided under the terms of the Company or an

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Affiliates’ long-term disability plan in effect on the Date of Termination or, if greater, at
the expiration of such remaining term. Such compensation and benefits shall continue until the
earlier of (i) his death, or (ii) the later of (A) his attainment of age 65, or (B) the date
specified in the plan document for benefit termination. To the extent the Company or an Affiliate
is unable to provide such compensation and benefits under its long-term disability plan, it shall
provide equivalent compensation and benefits directly at no out-of-pocket or tax cost to him. For
purposes of the preceding sentence, the Company or the Affiliate shall be deemed to have provided
compensation and benefits at no tax cost to him if it pays an additional amount to him or on his
behalf, with respect to the compensation and benefits which would otherwise be nontaxable to him,
calculated in a manner consistent with the provisions of Paragraph 12.




     7. Termination By Reason of Death.



          (a) Compensation and Benefits to Surviving Spouse. In the event the Executive dies
while he is employed under this Agreement and is survived by a spouse, the Company or an Affiliate
shall pay or provide the compensation and benefits set forth below:





               (1) The surviving spouse shall be paid an amount equal to the greater of (i) the
Executive’s highest base compensation received during one of the two calendar years
immediately preceding the calendar year in which the Date of Termination occurs, or (ii) his
base compensation in effect immediately prior to the Date of Termination (or prior to any
reduction which entitled him to terminate his employment for Good Reason) for a period of
one year, beginning with such Date of Termination. The frequency and manner of payment of
such amounts shall be in accordance with the Company’s executive payroll practices from time
to time in effect.




               (2) The surviving spouse shall be paid an amount equal to the highest payment made to
Executive under each incentive bonus plan of the Company with respect to one of the two
years immediately preceding the year in which the Date of Termination occurs. Such amount
shall be paid in cash to her within 30 days after the Date of Termination.




               (3) The surviving spouse shall be paid an amount equal to the sum of the highest annual
contribution made on the Executive’s behalf (other than his own salary reduction
contributions) to each tax-qualified and non-qualified Defined Contribution Plan of the
Company or an Affiliate with respect to the year in which the Date of Termination occurs or
one of the two years immediately preceding such year. Such amount shall be paid in cash to
her within 30 days after the Date of Termination or within 30 days after such amount can
first be determined, whichever is later.




               (4) Subject to the following sentence, the surviving spouse shall be paid benefits
determined by reference to the excess of (i) the aggregate retirement benefits the Executive
would have accrued under the terms of each tax-qualified and non-qualified Defined Benefit
Plan as in effect immediately prior to the Date of Termination, had he (A) continued to be
employed for a period of one year following the Date of Termination, and (B) received (on a
pro rated basis, as appropriate) the greater of (I) the highest compensation taken into
account under each such plan with respect to one of the two years immediately preceding the
year in which the Date of Termination occurs, or



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(II) his annualized base compensation in effect immediately prior to the Date of
Termination (or prior to any reduction which entitled him to terminate his employment for
Good Reason), over (ii) the retirement benefits actually determined under such plans. The
frequency, manner, and extent of payment of such benefits shall be consistent with the terms
of the plans to which they relate and any elections made thereunder.




               (5) The surviving spouse and her eligible dependents shall be entitled to continue to
participate at the same aggregate benefit levels, for a period of one year following the
Date of Termination and at no out-of-pocket or tax cost to her, in the Welfare Benefit Plans
in which the Executive was a participant immediately prior to the Date of Termination, to
the extent permitted under the terms of such plans and applicable law; provided, however,
that neither the Company nor its Affiliates shall be required to provide continued benefits
with respect to her deceased husband; and provided further, that neither the Company nor its
Affiliates shall thereafter be required to provide, at its cost, the other welfare benefits
covered by such plans to such spouse and her eligible dependents after the earlier of (i)
her death, or (ii) the later of (A) her attainment of age 65, or (B) the date specified in
the relevant plan document for benefit termination (assuming the Executive was employed
until age 65 or the normal retirement date, if any, specified in such document). To the
extent the Company or an Affiliate is unable to provide for continued participation in a
Welfare Benefit Plan as required, it shall provide an equivalent benefit directly at no
out-of-pocket or tax cost to her. For purposes of the preceding two sentences, the Company
or the Affiliate shall be deemed to have provided a benefit at no tax cost to her if it pays
an additional amount to her or on her behalf, with respect to those benefits which would
otherwise be nontaxable to her, calculated in a manner consistent with the provisions of
Paragraph 12.



          (b) Compensation and Benefits to Estate, Etc. In the event the Executive dies while
he is employed under this Agreement and is not survived by a spouse, (i) the Company or an
Affiliate shall make the payments described in Subparagraphs (a)(1) through (a)(3) directly to his
estate, (ii) the extent of the rights of any person to the accrued benefits described in
Subparagraph (a)(4) shall be determined by reference to the relevant plan provisions and any
elections made under such plans, and (iii) the Company and its Affiliates’ obligation to provide
benefits under Subparagraph (a)(5) shall terminate.




     8. Termination By the Company for Cause.



          (a) In General. In the event the Company intends to terminate the Executive’s
employment for Cause, it shall deliver a Notice of Termination to him which specifies a Date of
Termination not less than 30 days following the date of such notice, unless a shorter period of
notice is required by the principal regulator of any Affiliate of the Company.




          (b) Compensation. Within 30 days after the Executive’s termination under Subparagraph
(a), the Company shall pay him, in one lump sum, his accrued but unpaid base compensation and
vacation compensation earned through the Date of Termination.




     9. Termination By the Executive Without Good Reason.



          (a) In General. In the event the Executive intends to terminate his employment
without Good Reason, he shall deliver a Notice of Termination to the Company

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which specifies a Date of Termination not less than (i) 90 days following the date of such
notice, if a Change in Control shall not have occurred, or (ii) 30 days following the date of such
notice, if a Change in Control shall have occurred.




          (b) Compensation. Within 30 days after the Executive’s termination under Subparagraph
(a), the Company shall pay him, in one lump sum, his accrued but unpaid base compensation and
vacation compensation earned through the Date of Termination.




     10. Termination By the Company Without Disability or Cause.



          (a) In General. In the event the Company intends to terminate the Executive’s
employment for any reason other than Disability or Cause, it shall deliver a Notice of Termination
to him which specifies a Date of Termination not less than 90 days following the date of such
notice.




          (b) Compensation and Benefits During Remaining Term of Agreement. In the event of the
termination of the Executive’s employment under Subparagraph (a), the Company or an Affiliate shall
pay or provide the compensation and benefits described in Paragraph 6(b), except that all such
compensation and benefits shall be for the remaining term of this Agreement and, with respect to
Subparagraphs 6(b)(2) and (3), an additional pro rated amount shall be paid to him in cash on the
last day of the remaining term of this Agreement. Such pro rated amount shall be determined by
reference to a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of whole months elapsed during the
year in which termination occurs, and the denominator of which is 12.




          (c) Adjustment to Certain Subparagraph (b) Compensation and Benefits. In the event
the Executive suffers a Disability during the remaining term of this Agreement following the Date
of Termination, the Company or an Affiliate’s obligation to pay or fund any disability insurance
premiums on his behalf shall be suspended while his Disability continues, provided the cessation of
payment or funding does not result in the termination of disability benefits. Any amounts
described in Paragraph 6(b) and otherwise payable under Subparagraph (b) shall be reduced (but not
below zero) by the dollar amount of disability benefits received by him pursuant to plans or
policies funded, directly at its cost, by the Company or an Affiliate.




          (d) Earlier Cessation of Certain Welfare Benefits. Notwithstanding the provisions of
Subparagraph (b), neither the Company nor an Affiliate shall be required to provide, at its cost,
the welfare benefits covered by Paragraph 6(b)(5) after the later of (i) the attainment by the
Executive and his spouse (if any) of age 65, or (ii) the date specified in the relevant plan
document for benefit termination (assuming that he was employed until age 65 or the normal
retirement date, if any, specified in such document).




          (e) Death During Remaining Term of Agreement.





               (1) In the event the Executive dies during the remaining term of this Agreement
following his termination without Disability or Cause by the Company and he is survived by a
spouse, the compensation and benefits required to be paid and provided under Subparagraph
(b) shall be unaffected by his death and shall be paid and provided to her or on her behalf;
provided, however, that the extent of her rights to the accrued



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benefits described in Paragraph 6(b)(4) shall be determined by reference to the
relevant plan provisions and any elections made under such plans; and provided further, that
neither the Company nor an Affiliate shall be required to provide continued benefits with
respect to her deceased husband; and provided further, that in no event shall the Company
nor an Affiliate be required to provide, at its cost, the other welfare benefits described
in Paragraph 6(b)(5) to such spouse and her eligible dependents after the earlier of (i) her
death, or (ii) the later of (A) her attainment of age 65, or (B) the date specified in the
relevant plan document for benefit termination (assuming that the Executive was employed
until age 65 or the normal retirement date, if any, specified in such document).




               (2) In the event the Executive dies during the remaining term of this Agreement
following his termination without Disability or Cause and he is not survived by a spouse,
(i) the Company shall thereafter make the remaining payments described in Paragraphs 6(b)(1)
through 6(b)(3) directly to his estate, (ii) the extent of the rights of any person to the
accrued benefits described in Paragraph 6(b)(4) shall be determined by reference to the
relevant plan provisions and any elections made under such plans, and (iii) the Company and
any Affiliate’s obligation to provide the continued benefits described in Paragraph 6(b)(5)
shall terminate.



     11. Termination By the Executive for Good Reason.



          (a) In General. In the event the Executive intends to terminate his employment for
Good Reason, he shall deliver a Notice of Termination to the Company which specifies a Date of
Termination not less than 30 days following the date of such notice.




          (b) Compensation and Benefits During Remaining Term of Agreement. In the event of the
termination of the Executive’s employment under Subparagraph (a), the Company shall pay or provide
the compensation and benefits described in Paragraph 6(b), except that all such compensation and
benefits shall be for the remaining term of this Agreement and, with respect to Subparagraphs
6(b)(2) and (3), an additional pro rated amount shall be paid to him in cash on the last day of the
remaining term of this Agreement. Such pro rated amount shall be determined by reference to a
fraction, the numerator of which is the number of whole months elapsed during the year in which
termination occurs, and the denominator of which is 12.




          (c) Adjustment to Certain Subparagraph (b) Compensation and Benefits. In the event
the Executive suffers a Disability during the remaining term of this Agreement following the Date
of Termination, the Company or any Affiliate’s obligation to pay or fund any disability insurance
premiums on his behalf shall be suspended while his Disability continues, provided the cessation of
payment or funding does not result in the termination of disability benefits. Any amounts
described in Paragraph 6(b) and otherwise payable under Subparagraph (b) shall be reduced (but not
below zero) by the dollar amount of disability benefits received by him pursuant to plans or
policies funded, directly at its cost, to the Company or any Affiliate.




          (d) Earlier Cessation of Certain Welfare Benefits. Notwithstanding the provisions of
Subparagraph (b), neither the Company nor an Affiliate shall be required to provide, at its cost,
the welfare benefits covered by Paragraph 6(b)(5) after the later of (i) the attainment by the
Executive and his spouse (if any) of age 65, or (ii) the date specified in the

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relevant plan document for benefit termination (assuming that he was employed until age 65 or
the normal retirement date, if any, specified in such document).




          (e) Death During Remaining Term of Agreement.





               (1) In the event the Executive dies during the remaining term of this Agreement
following his termination for Good Reason and he is survived by a spouse, the compensation
and benefits required to be paid and provided under Subparagraph (b) shall be unaffected by
his death and shall be paid and provided to her or on her behalf; provided, however, that
the extent of her rights to the accrued benefits described in Paragraph 6(b)(4) shall be
determined by reference to the relevant plan provisions and any elections made under such
plans; and provided further, that neither the Company nor any Affiliate shall be required to
provide continued benefits with respect to her deceased husband; and provided further, that
in no event shall the Company or any Affiliate be required to provide, at its cost, the
other welfare benefits described in Paragraph 6(b)(5) to such spouse and her eligible
dependents after the earlier of (i) her death, or (ii) the later of (A) her attainment of
age 65, or (B) the date specified in the relevant plan document for benefit termination
(assuming that the Executive was employed until age 65 or the normal retirement date, if
any, specified in such document).




               (2) In the event the Executive dies during the remaining term of this Agreement
following his termination for Good Reason and he is not survived by a spouse, (i) either the
Company or any Affiliate shall thereafter make the remaining payments described in
Paragraphs 6(b)(1) through 6(b)(3) directly to his estate, (ii) the extent of the rights of
any person to the accrued benefits described in Paragraph 6(b)(4) shall be determined by
reference to the relevant plan provisions and any elections made under such plans, and (iii)
the Company or any Affiliate’s obligation to provide the continued benefits described in
Paragraph 6(b)(5) shall terminate.



     12. Provisions Relating to Excise Taxes.



          (a) In General. In the event the Executive becomes liable, for any taxable year, for
the payment of an Excise Tax (because of a change in control) with respect to the compensation and
benefits payable by the Company or an Affiliate under this Agreement or otherwise, the Company
shall make one or more Gross-Up Payments to the Executive or on his behalf. The amount of any
Gross-Up Payment shall be calculated by a certified public accountant or other tax professional
designated jointly by the Executive and the Company. The provisions of this paragraph shall apply
with respect to the Executive’s surviving spouse or estate, where relevant.




          (b) Methodology for Calculation of Gross-Up Payment. For purposes of determining the
amount of any Gross-Up Payment, the Executive shall be deemed to pay income taxes at the highest
federal, state, and local marginal rates of tax for the calendar year in which the Gross-Up Payment
is to be made, net of the maximum reduction in federal income tax which could be obtained from the
deduction of state and local income taxes. In the event that the Excise Tax is subsequently
determined to be less than the amount taken into account at the time the Gross-Up Payment was made,
the Executive shall repay to the Company, at the time that the amount of such reduction in Excise
Tax is finally determined, the portion of the Gross-Up

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Payment attributable to the reduction (plus a portion of the Gross-Up Payment attributable to
the Excise Tax and the federal, state, and local income taxes imposed on the portion of the
Gross-Up Payment being repaid by the Executive to the extent such repayment results in a reduction
in Excise Tax or federal, state, or local income tax), plus interest on the amount of such
repayment. Such interest shall be calculated by using the rate in effect under Section 1274(d)(1)
of the IRC, on the date the Gross-Up Payment was made, for debt instruments with a term equal to
the period of time which has elapsed from the date the Gross-Up Payment was made to the date of
repayment. In the event that the Excise Tax is subsequently determined to exceed the amount taken
into account at the time the Gross-Up Payment was made (including by reason of any payment the
existence or amount of which could not be determined at the time of the Gross-Up Payment), the
Company shall make an additional Gross-Up Payment with respect to the excess at the time the amount
thereof is finally determined, plus interest calculated in a manner similar to that described in
the preceding sentence.




          (c) Time of Payment. Any Gross-Up Payment provided for herein shall be paid not later
than the 30th day following the payment of any compensation or the provision of any benefit which
causes such payment to be made; provided, however, that if the amount of such payment cannot be
finally determined on or before such day, the Company shall pay on such day an estimate of the
minimum amount of such payment and shall pay the remainder of such payment (together with interest
calculated in a manner similar to that described in Subparagraph (b)) as soon as the amount thereof
can be determined. In the event that the amount of an estimated payment exceeds the amount
subsequently determined to have been due, such excess shall constitute a loan by the Company to the
Executive, payable on the 30th day after demand by the Company (together with interest calculated
in a manner similar to that described in Subparagraph (b)).




          (d) Notwithstanding the provisions of this paragraph to the contrary, the actual amounts
payable hereunder as Gross-Up Payments shall be coordinated with any similar amounts paid to the
Executive under any other contract, plan, or arrangement.




     13. Fees and Expenses of the Executive. After a Change in Control and except as
provided in the following sentence, the Company shall pay, within 30 days following demand by the
Executive, all legal, accounting, actuarial, and related fees and expenses incurred by him in
connection with the enforcement of this Agreement. An arbitration panel or a court of competent
jurisdiction shall be empowered to deny payment to the Executive of such fees and expenses only if
it determines that he instituted a proceeding hereunder, or otherwise acted, in bad faith.



     14. Reduction for Compensation and Benefits Received Under the Company Severance Policy,
Etc. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, in the event the Executive, his
surviving spouse, or any other person becomes entitled to continued compensation and benefits
hereunder by reason of the Executive’s termination of employment and, in addition, compensation or
similar benefits are payable under a severance policy, program or arrangement maintained by the
Company (other than retirement plans), then the compensation or benefits otherwise payable
hereunder shall be reduced by the compensation or benefits provided under such severance policy,
program or arrangement.



     15. Mitigation. The Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any
compensation or benefits which may become payable hereunder by reason of his termination by



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seeking other employment or otherwise, nor, except as otherwise provided in the following
sentence or elsewhere herein, shall the amount of any such compensation or benefits be reduced by
any compensation or benefits received by the Executive as the result of his employment by another
employer. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, the Company or any
Affiliate’s obligation to provide any medical and dental benefits hereunder may be suspended, with
the written concurrence of the Executive or, if applicable, his surviving spouse during any period
of time that such benefits are being provided by reason of his or her employment.



     16. Funding of Compensation and Benefits; Acceleration of Certain Payments.



          (a) Grantor Trust. In the event the Executive’s employment is terminated without
Cause or he terminates his employment for Good Reason and a Change in Control has occurred as of
the Date of Termination or occurs thereafter, the Executive shall have the right to require the
Company to establish a grantor trust (taxable to the Company) and fund such trust, on an
actuarially sound basis, to provide the compensation and benefits to which he is entitled
hereunder, other than those which may be paid pursuant to the provisions of Subparagraph (c). The
specific terms of such trust shall be as agreed to by the parties in good faith; provided, however,
that the trustee shall be a financial institution independent of the Company; and provided further,
that in no event shall the Company be entitled to withdraw funds from the trust for its benefit, or
otherwise voluntarily assign or alienate such funds, until such time as all compensation and
benefits required hereunder are paid and provided. The determination of the extent of required
funding, including any supplemental funding in the event of adverse investment performance of trust
assets, shall be made by an actuary or a certified public accountant retained by each party. To
the extent such professionals cannot agree on the proper level of funding, they shall select a
third such professional whose determination shall be binding upon the parties. Notwithstanding the
foregoing, the Company and its Affiliates shall remain liable for all compensation and benefits
required to be paid or provided hereunder.




          (b) Alternate Security. In lieu of the right given to the Executive under
Subparagraph (a), he shall have the right under such circumstances to require that the Company or
its Affiliates provide (i) an irrevocable standby letter of credit issued by a financial
institution other than the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company with a senior debt credit
rating of “A” or better by Moody’s Investors Service or Standard & Poor’s Corporation, or (ii)
other security reasonably acceptable to him, to secure the payment of such compensation and
benefits.




          (c) Accelerated Payment of Present Value of Certain Compensation. In the event the
Executive’s employment is terminated without Cause or he terminates his employment for Good Reason,
the Executive shall have the continuing right to demand that the present value of the remaining
payments described in Paragraphs 6(b)(1) through (3), and payable by reason of the provisions of
Paragraph 10 or 11 (as the case may be), be paid to him in one lump sum within 10 days after the
date written demand is given. For purposes of calculating the present value of such payments, a
discount factor shall be applied to each such payment which is equal to the relevant applicable
federal rate in effect on the date written demand is given by him, determined by reference to the
period of time between the date of such notice and the scheduled time such payment would otherwise
be made. In the event any payment described in Paragraphs 6(b)(1) through (3) is not yet
determinable on the date written demand is made, the other payments shall nonetheless be made as
provided above; and the undetermined payment




11









 




shall be made within 30 days after it becomes determinable, calculated as provided in the
preceding sentence but by treating the date on which the payment becomes determinable as the date
of written notice. Nothing in this subparagraph shall be construed as affecting the Executive’s
right to one or more Gross-Up Payments in accordance with the provisions of Paragraph 12; and a
Gross-Up Payment (if applicable) will be calculated and made with any payment made under this
subparagraph, as well as any other Gross-Up Payments that may be required hereunder at a subsequent
date.




     17. Withholding Taxes. All compensation and benefits provided for herein shall, to
the extent required by law, be subject to federal, state, and local tax withholding.



     18. Confidential Information. The Executive agrees that subsequent to his employment
with the Company, he will not, at any time, communicate or disclose to any unauthorized person,
without the written consent of the Company, any proprietary or other confidential information
concerning the Company or any Subsidiary or any Affiliate of the Company; provided, however, that
the obligations under this paragraph shall not apply to the extent that such matters (i) are
disclosed in circumstances where the Executive is legally obligated to do so, or (ii) become
generally known to and available for use by the public otherwise than by his wrongful act or
omission; and provided further, that he may disclose any knowledge of insurance, financial, legal
and economic principles, concepts and ideas which are not solely and exclusively derived from the
business plans and activities of the Company.



     19. Covenants Not to Compete or to Solicit.



          (a) Noncompetition. During his employment, and if the Executive’s employment
terminates under Paragraph 8 or 9 prior to a Change in Control, then for a period of 12 months
after the Date of Termination, the Executive agrees he will not, without the written consent in
writing of the Board of Directors of the Company, endeavor to entice away from the Company, a
Subsidiary or any Affiliate, or otherwise interfere with the relationship of the Company, a
Subsidiary or any Affiliate with any person who is, or was within the then most recent 12 month
period, a customer, agent or supplier of the Company, a Subsidiary or any Affiliate. If at the
time of the enforcement of this paragraph a court holds that the duration, scope, or area
restrictions stated herein are unreasonable under the circumstances then existing and, thus,
unenforceable, the Company and the Executive agree that the maximum duration, scope, or area
reasonable under such circumstances shall be substituted for the stated duration, scope, or area.




          (b) Nonsolicitation. During his employment, and if the Executive’s employment
terminates under Paragraph 8 or 9 prior to a Change in Control, then for a period of 12 months
after the Date of Termination, the Executive shall not, whether on his own behalf or on behalf of
any other individual or business entity, solicit, endeavor to entice away from the Company, a
Subsidiary or any Affiliate, or otherwise interfere with the relationship of the Company, a
Subsidiary or any Affiliate with any person who is, or was within the then most recent 12 month
period, an employee or associate thereof; provided, however, that this subparagraph shall not apply
following the occurrence of a Change in Control.




     20. Arbitration. To the extent permitted by applicable law, any controversy or
dispute arising out of or relating to this Agreement, or any alleged breach hereof, shall be
settled



12









 







by arbitration in Pennington, New Jersey, in accordance with the commercial rules of the
American Arbitration Association then in existence (to the extent such rules are not inconsistent
with the provisions of this Agreement), it being understood and agreed that the arbitration panel
shall consist of three individuals acceptable to the parties hereto. In the event that the parties
cannot agree on three arbitrators within 20 days following receipt by one party of a demand for
arbitration from another party, then the Executive and the Company shall each designate one
arbitrator and the two arbitrators selected shall select the third arbitrator. The arbitration
panel so selected shall convene a hearing no later than 90 days following the selection of the
panel. The arbitration award shall be final and binding upon the parties, and judgment may be
entered thereon in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Court of Common Pleas or in any other court of
competent jurisdiction.



     21. Additional Equitable Remedy. The Executive acknowledges and agrees that the
Company’s remedy at law for a breach or a threatened breach of the provisions of Paragraphs 18 and
19 would be inadequate; and, in recognition of this fact and notwithstanding the provisions of
Paragraph 20, in the event of such a breach or threatened breach by him, it is agreed that the
Company shall be entitled to request equitable relief in the form of specific performance,
temporary restraining order, temporary or permanent injunction, or any other equitable remedy which
may then be available. Nothing in this paragraph shall be construed as prohibiting the Company
from pursuing any other remedy available under this Agreement for such a breach or threatened
breach.



     22. Related Agreements. Except as may otherwise be provided herein, to the extent
that any provision of any other agreement between the Company and the Executive shall limit,
qualify, duplicate, or be inconsistent with any provision of this Agreement, the provision in this
Agreement shall control and such provision of such other agreement shall be deemed to have been
superseded, and to be of no force or effect, as if such other agreement had been formally amended
to the extent necessary to accomplish such purpose.



     23. No Effect on Other Rights. Except as otherwise specifically provided herein,
nothing contained in this Agreement shall be construed as adversely affecting any rights the
Executive may have under any agreement, plan, policy or arrangement to the extent any such right is
not inconsistent with the provisions hereof.



     24. Exclusive Rights and Remedy. Except for any explicit rights and remedies the
Executive may have under any other contract, plan or arrangement with the Company, the compensation
and benefits payable hereunder and the remedy for enforcement thereof shall constitute his
exclusive rights and remedy in the event of his termination of employment.



     25. Director and Officer Liability Insurance; Indemnification. The Company and Mercer
shall provide the Executive (including his heirs, executors, and administrators) with coverage
under a standard directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policy, at the Company and Mercer’s
expense, in amounts consistent with amounts provided by peer corporations to their directors and
officers, and shall indemnify him as both a director and as an officer (and his heirs, executors,
and administrators) to the fullest extent permitted under Pennsylvania law against all expenses and
liabilities reasonably incurred by him in connection with or arising out of any action, suit, or
proceeding in which he may be involved by reason of his having been an officer or director of the
Company or any Subsidiary or Affiliate (whether or not he continues to be such



13









 







an officer or director at the time of incurring such expenses or liabilities). Such expenses
and liabilities shall include, but not be limited to, judgments, court costs, and attorneys’ fees,
and the costs of reasonable settlements.



     26. Notices. Any notice required or permitted under this Agreement shall be
sufficient if it is in writing and shall be deemed given (i) at the time of personal delivery to
the addressee, or (ii) at the time sent certified mail, with return receipt requested, addressed as
follows:



          If to the Executive—



Mr. David B. Merclean

8 Demarest Drive

Mendham, New Jersey 07945




          If to Mercer, or the Company—



10 North Highway 31

P.O. Box 278

Pennington, NJ 08534



Attention: President and Chief Executive Officer



The name or address of any addressee may be changed at any time and from time to time by notice
similarly given.




     27. No Waiver. The failure by any party to this Agreement at any time or times
hereafter to require strict performance by any other party of any of the provisions, terms, or
conditions contained in this Agreement shall not waive, affect, or diminish any right of the first
party at any time or times thereafter to demand strict performance therewith and with any other
provision, term, or condition contained in this Agreement. Any actual waiver of a provision, term,
or condition contained in this Agreement shall not constitute a waiver of any other provision,
term, or condition herein, whether prior or subsequent to such actual waiver and whether of the
same or a different type. The failure of the Company to promptly terminate the Executive’s
employment for Cause or the Executive to promptly terminate his employment for Good Reason shall
not be construed as a waiver of the right of termination, and such right may be exercised at any
time following the occurrence of the event giving rise to such right.



     28. Joint and Several Obligations of Mercer and the Company. Mercer and the Company
shall be jointly and severally liable for all compensation and benefits that may become payable
hereunder to or on behalf of the Executive or, if applicable, his surviving spouse, estate or
beneficiaries.



     29. Survival. Notwithstanding the nominal termination of this Agreement and the
Executive’s employment hereunder, the provisions hereof which specify continuing obligations,
compensation and benefits, and rights (including the otherwise applicable term hereof) shall remain
in effect until such time as all such obligations are discharged, all such compensation and



14









 







benefits are received, and no party or beneficiary has any remaining actual or contingent
rights hereunder.



     30. Severability. In the event any provision in this Agreement shall be held illegal
or invalid for any reason, such illegal or invalid provision shall not affect the remaining
provisions hereof, and this Agreement shall be construed, administered and enforced as though such
illegal or invalid provision were not contained herein.



     31. Binding Effect and Benefit. The provisions of this Agreement shall be binding
upon and shall inure to the benefit of the successors and assigns of the Company and the executors,
personal representatives, surviving spouse, heirs, devisees, and legatees of the Executive.



     32. Entire Agreement. This Agreement embodies the entire agreement among the parties
with respect to the subject matter hereof, and it supersedes all prior discussions and oral
understandings of the parties with respect thereto.



     33. No Assignment. This Agreement, and the benefits and obligations hereunder, shall
not be assignable by any party hereto except by operation of law.



     34. No Attachment. Except as otherwise provided by law, no right to receive
compensation or benefits under this Agreement shall be subject to anticipation, commutation,
alienation, sale, assignment, encumbrance, charge, pledge, or hypothecation, or to set off,
execution, attachment, levy, or similar process, and any attempt, voluntary or involuntary, to
effect any such action shall be null and void.



     35. Captions. The captions of the several paragraphs and subparagraphs of this
Agreement have been inserted for convenience of reference only. They constitute no part of this
Agreement and are not to be considered in the construction hereof.



     36. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each
of which shall be deemed one and the same instrument which may be sufficiently evidenced by any one
counterpart.



     37. Number. Wherever any words are used herein in the singular form, they shall be
construed as though they were used in the plural form, as the context requires, and vice
versa.



     38. Applicable Law. Except to the extent preempted by federal law, the provisions of
this Agreement shall be construed, administered, and enforced in accordance with the domestic
internal law of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.



     39. Prior Agreements. The execution of this Agreement terminates any and all previous
employment agreements among the Company, its Affiliates and Mr. Merclean.



     40. Joinder. Mercer and Mercer Insurance have joined in this Agreement for the
purpose of guaranteeing the performance of the Company’s obligations hereunder.



15









 





     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement, or caused it to be executed, as
of the date first above written.



	 	 	 	 	 
	 

	 	 

David B. Merclean
	 	 






	 	 	 	 	 	 	 
	 	 	BICUS SERVICE CORPORATION	 	 
	 
	 	 	 	 	 	 
	 

	 	By:	 	 	 	 
	 

	 	 	 	 

	 	 
	 
	 	 	 	 	 	 
	 

	 	Attest:	 	 	 	 
	 

	 	 	 	 

	 	 
	 
	 	 	 	 	 	 
	 	 	MERCER INSURANCE GROUP, INC.	 	 
	 
	 	 	 	 	 	 
	 

	 	By:	 	 	 	 
	 

	 	 	 	 

	 	 
	 
	 	 	 	 	 	 
	 

	 	Attest:	 	 	 	 
	 

	 	 	 	 

	 	 
	 
	 	 	 	 	 	 
	 	 	MERCER INSURANCE COMPANY	 	 
	 
	 	 	 	 	 	 
	 

	 	By:	 	 	 	 
	 

	 	 	 	 

	 	 
	 
	 	 	 	 	 	 
	 

	 	Attest:	 	 	 	 
	 

	 	 	 	 

	 	 






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GLOSSARY




     “Affiliate” means with respect to any Person, a Person or entity that, directly or indirectly,
controls, or is controlled by, or is under common control with such Person or entity, including
without limitation, Mercer and Mercer Insurance Group, Inc.



     “Board of Directors” means the board of directors of the relevant corporation.



     “Cause” means (i) a documented repeated and willful failure by the Executive to perform his
duties, but only after written demand and only if termination is effected by action taken by a vote
of (A) prior to a Change in Control, at least a majority of the directors of the Company then in
office, or (B) after a Change in Control, at least 80% of the nonofficer directors of the Company
then in office, (ii) his final conviction of a felony, (iii) conduct by him which constitutes moral
turpitude which is directly and materially injurious to the Company or any Subsidiary or affiliated
company, (iv) willful material violation of corporate policy, or (v) the issuance by the regulator
of the Company or any Subsidiary or Affiliate of an unappealable order to the effect that he be
permanently discharged.



     For purposes of this definition, no act or failure to act on the part of the Executive shall be
considered “willful” unless done or omitted not in good faith and without reasonable belief that
the action or omission was in the best interest of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries or
Affiliate.



     “Change in Control” means the occurrence of any of the following events:




     (a) any Person (except (i) Mercer or any Subsidiary or Affiliate of Mercer, or (ii) any
Employee Benefit Plan (or any trust forming a part thereof) maintained by Mercer or any
Subsidiary or Affiliate) is or becomes the beneficial owner, directly or indirectly, of,
Mercer or any Affiliate’s securities representing 19.9% or more of the combined voting power
of Mercer or any Affiliate’s then outstanding securities, or 50.1% or more of the combined
voting power of a Material Subsidiary’s then outstanding securities, other than pursuant to a
transaction described in Clause (c);




     (b) there occurs a sale, exchange, transfer or other disposition of substantially all of
the assets of Mercer or a Material Subsidiary to another entity, except to an entity
controlled directly or indirectly by Mercer or an Affiliate;




     (c) there occurs a merger, consolidation, share exchange, division or other
reorganization of or relating to Mercer, unless—




     (i) the shareholders of Mercer immediately before such merger, consolidation,
share exchange, division or reorganization own, directly or indirectly, immediately
thereafter at least two-thirds of the combined voting power of the outstanding voting
securities of the Surviving Company in substantially the same proportion as their
ownership of the voting securities immediately before such merger, consolidation,
share exchange, division or reorganization; and




     (ii) the individuals who, immediately before such merger, consolidation, share
exchange, division or reorganization, are members of the Incumbent Board continue to
constitute at least two-thirds of the board of directors of the Surviving Company;
provided, however, that if the election, or nomination for election by Mercer’s
shareholders, of any new director was approved by a vote of at least two-thirds of the
Incumbent Board, such director shall, for the purposes hereof, be considered a member
of the Incumbent Board; and provided further, however, that no individual shall be
considered a member of the Incumbent Board if such individual initially assumed office
as a result of either an actual or threatened Election Contest or



17









 







Proxy Contest, including by reason of any agreement intended to avoid or settle
any Election Contest or Proxy Contest; and




     (iii) no Person (except (A) Mercer or any Subsidiary or Affiliate of Mercer, (B)
any Employee Benefit Plan (or any trust forming a part thereof) maintained by Mercer
or any Subsidiary or Affiliate of Mercer, or (C) the Surviving Company or any
Subsidiary or Affiliate of the Surviving Company) has beneficial ownership of 19.9% or
more of the combined voting power of the Surviving Company’s outstanding voting
securities immediately following such merger, consolidation, share exchange, division
or reorganization;




     (d) a plan of liquidation or dissolution of Mercer, other than pursuant to bankruptcy or
insolvency laws, is adopted; or




     (e) during any period of two consecutive years, individuals who, at the beginning of
such period, constituted the Board of Directors of Mercer cease for any reason to constitute
at least a majority of such Board of Directors, unless the election, or the nomination for
election by Mercer’s shareholders, of each new director was approved by a vote of at least
two-thirds of the directors then still in office who were directors at the beginning of the
period; provided, however, that no individual shall be considered a member of the Board of
Directors of Mercer at the beginning of such period if such individual initially assumed
office as a result of either an actual or threatened Election Contest or Proxy Contest,
including by reason of any agreement intended to avoid or settle any Election Contest or
Proxy Contest.


Notwithstanding the foregoing, a Change in Control shall not be deemed to have occurred if a Person
becomes the beneficial owner, directly or indirectly, of securities representing 19.9% or more of
the combined voting power of Mercer’s then outstanding securities solely as a result of an
acquisition by Mercer of its voting securities which, by reducing the number of shares outstanding,
increases the proportionate number of shares beneficially owned by such Person; provided, however,
that if a Person becomes a beneficial owner of 19.9% or more of the combined voting power of
Mercer’s then outstanding securities by reason of share repurchases by Mercer and thereafter
becomes the beneficial owner, directly or indirectly, of any additional voting securities of
Mercer, then a Change in Control shall be deemed to have occurred with respect to such Person under
Clause (a).



Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, if the Executive’s employment is
terminated and he reasonably demonstrates that such termination (i) was at the request of a third
party who has indicated an intention of taking steps reasonably calculated to effect a Change in
Control and who effects a Change in Control, or (ii) otherwise occurred in connection with, or in
anticipation of, a Change in Control which actually occurs, then for all purposes hereof, a Change
in Control shall be deemed to have occurred on the day immediately prior to the date of such
termination of his employment.




     “Company” means Bicus Services Corporation, a Pennsylvania corporation, and any successor
thereto.



     “Date of Termination” means:




     (a) if the Executive’s employment is terminated for Disability, 30 days after the Notice
of Termination is given (provided that he shall not have returned to the performance of his
duties on a full-time basis during such 30-day period);




     (b) if the Executive’s employment terminates by reason of his death, the date of his
death;




     (c) if the Executive’s employment is terminated by the Company for Cause, the date
specified in the Notice of Termination;



18









 






     (d) if the Executive’s employment is terminated by him without Good Reason, the date
specified in the Notice of Termination;




     (e) if the Executive’s employment is terminated by the Company for any reason other than
for Disability or Cause, the date specified in the Notice of Termination; or




     (f) if the Executive’s employment is terminated by him for Good Reason, the date
specified in the Notice of Termination;


provided, however that the Date of Termination shall mean the actual date of termination in the
event the parties mutually agree to a date other than that described above.




     “Defined Benefit Plan” has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 3(35) of ERISA.



     “Defined Contribution Plan” has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 3(34) of ERISA.



     “Disability” has the meaning ascribed to the term “permanent and total disability” in Section
22(e)(3) of the IRC.



     “Election Contest” means a solicitation with respect to the election or removal of directors
that is subject to the provisions of Rule 14a-11 of the 1934 Act.



     “Employee Benefit Plan” has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 3(3) of ERISA.



     “ERISA” means the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended and as the same
may be amended from time to time.



     “Excise Tax” means the tax imposed by Section 4999 of the IRC (or any similar tax that may
hereafter be imposed by federal, state or local law).



     “Executive” means David B. Merclean, an individual residing in Mendham, New Jersey.



     “Good Reason” means:




     (a) prior to a Change in Control—




     (i) a change in the Executive’s status or position, or any material diminution in
his duties or responsibilities;




     (ii) a reduction in the Executive’s base compensation, other than a reduction
which is proportionate to a company-wide reduction in executive pay;




     (iii) a failure to increase the Executive’s base compensation, consistent with
his performance rating, within 24 months since the last increase, other than similar
treatment on a company-wide basis for executives or a voluntary deferral by him of an
increase;




     (iv) requiring the Executive to be based more than 20 miles from his current
office location as of the date of this Agreement;




     (v) delivery to the Executive of a Notice of Nonextension; or




     (vi) any purported termination of the Executive’s employment which is not in
accordance with the terms of this Agreement; and



19









 






     (b) after a Change in Control—




     (i) a change in the Executive’s status or position, or any material diminution in
his duties or responsibilities;




     (ii) any increase in the Executive’s duties inconsistent with his position;




     (iii) any reduction in the Executive’s base compensation;




     (iv) a failure to increase the Executive’s base compensation, consistent with his
performance review, within 12 months of the last increase; or a failure to consider
the Executive for an increase within 12 months of his last performance review;




     (v) a failure to continue in effect any Employee Benefit Plan in which the
Executive participates, including (whether or not they constitute Employee Benefit
Plans) incentive bonus, stock option, or other qualified or nonqualified plans of
deferred compensation (A) other than as a result of the normal expiration of such a
plan, or (B) unless such plan is merged or consolidated into, or replaced with, a plan
with benefits which are of equal or greater value;




     (vi) requiring the Executive to be based more than 20 miles from where his
principal office was located immediately prior to the Change in Control;




     (vii) refusal to allow the Executive to attend to matters or engage in activities
in which he was permitted to engage prior to the Change in Control;




     (viii) delivery to the Executive of a Notice of Nonextension;




     (ix) failure to secure the affirmation by a Successor, within seven business days
prior to a Change in Control, of this Agreement and its or the Company’s continuing
obligations hereunder (or where there is not at least three business days advance
notice that a Person may become a Successor, within one business day after having
notice that such Person may become or has become a Successor); or




     (x) any purported termination of the Executive’s employment which is not in
accordance with the terms of this Agreement.


Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, at the election of the Executive, beginning with
seven days prior to the Change in Control and continuing through the first anniversary of such
Change in Control, he may terminate his employment for any reason or no reason and such termination
will be treated as having occurred for Good Reason.




     “Gross-Up Payment” means an additional payment to be made to or on behalf of the Executive in
an amount such that the net amount retained by him, after deduction of any Excise Tax on the Total
Payments and any federal, state, and local income tax and Excise Tax on such additional payment,
equals the Total Payments.



     “Incumbent Board” means the Board of Directors of Mercer or an Affiliate as constituted at any
relevant time.



     “IRC” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended and as the same may be amended from
time to time.



20









 





     “Material Subsidiary” means a Subsidiary whose net worth, determined under generally accepted
accounting principles, at the fiscal year end immediately prior to any relevant time is at least
25% of the aggregate net worth of the controlled group of corporations of which Mercer is the
common parent.



     “1934 Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and as the same may be
amended from time to time.



     “Mercer” means Mercer Insurance Group, Inc., a Pennsylvania corporation and the holding
company for Mercer Insurance.



     “Mercer Insurance” means Mercer Insurance Company, a Pennsylvania insurance company.



     “Notice of Extension” means a written notice in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A
delivered to or by the Executive that advises that the Agreement will be extended as provided in
Paragraph 3.



     “Notice of Termination” means a written notice that (i) indicates the specific termination
provision in this Agreement relied upon, (ii) sets forth in reasonable detail the facts and
circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination of the Executive’s employment under the
provision so indicated, and (iii) gives the required advance notice of termination.



     “Person” has the same meaning as such term has for purposes of Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the
1934 Act.



     “Proxy Contest” means the solicitation of proxies or consents by or on behalf of a Person
other than the Board of Directors of Mercer.



     “Subsidiary” means any business entity of which a majority of its voting power or its equity
securities or equity interests is owned, directly or indirectly by Mercer.



     “Successor” means any Person that succeeds to, or has the practical ability to control (either
immediately or with the passage of time), Mercer’s business directly, by merger or consolidation,
or indirectly, by purchase of Mercer’s voting securities or all or substantially all of its assets.



     “Surviving Company” means the business entity that is a resulting company following a merger,
consolidation, share exchange, division or other reorganization of or relating to Mercer or any
Affiliate.



     “Total Payments” means the compensation and benefits that become payable under the Agreement
or otherwise (and which may be subject to an Excise Tax) by reason of the Executive’s termination
of employment, determined without regard to any Gross-Up Payments that may also be made.



     “Welfare Benefit Plan” has the meaning ascribed to the term “employee welfare benefit plan” in
Section 3(1) of ERISA. For purposes of determining the Executive’s or his dependents’ right to
continued welfare benefits hereunder following his termination of employment, the meaning of such
term shall include any retiree health plan maintained by Mercer or any Affiliate at any time after
the relevant Date of Termination, notwithstanding the fact that the Executive is not a participant
therein prior to such date.




21