# EDGAR Filing Document

**Accession Number:** 0000750577
**File Stem:** 0001193125-26-109512
**Filing Date:** 2026-3
**Character Count:** 328661
**Document Hash:** 926b8b17019a1b838345b5df5b6ca252
**Contains OCR:** False
**Source Format:** 

## Filing Content

## Filing Summary
**0001193125-26-109512.hdr.sgml**: 20260317

**ACCESSION NUMBER**: 0001193125-26-109512

**CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE**: DEF 14A

**PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT**: 39

**CONFORMED PERIOD OF REPORT**: 20260317

**FILED AS OF DATE**: 20260317

**DATE AS OF CHANGE**: 20260317

**FILER**: 

**COMPANY DATA:**
- **COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:** HANCOCK WHITNEY CORP
- **CENTRAL INDEX KEY:** 0000750577
- **STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION:** STATE COMMERCIAL BANKS [6022]
- **ORGANIZATION NAME:** 02 Finance
- **EIN:** 640693170
- **STATE OF INCORPORATION:** MS
- **FISCAL YEAR END:** 1231

**FILING VALUES:**
- **FORM TYPE:** DEF 14A
- **SEC ACT:** 1934 Act
- **SEC FILE NUMBER:** 001-36872
- **FILM NUMBER:** 26759222

**BUSINESS ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** ONE HANCOCK WHITNEY PLAZA
- **STREET 2:** P O BOX 4019
- **CITY:** GULFPORT
- **STATE:** MS
- **ZIP:** 39501
- **BUSINESS PHONE:** 5042995208

**MAIL ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** ONE HANCOCK WHITNEY PLAZA
- **STREET 2:** P O BOX 4019
- **CITY:** GULFPORT
- **STATE:** MS
- **ZIP:** 39501

**FORMER COMPANY:**
- **FORMER CONFORMED NAME:** HANCOCK HOLDING CO
- **DATE OF NAME CHANGE:** 19920703

?xml version='1.0' encoding='ASCII'? DEF 14A

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**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.)** 

Filed by the Registrant 

Filed by a Party other than the Registrant 

Check the appropriate box:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
|  | Preliminary Proxy Statement |
|  | **Confidential, for Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2))** |
|  | Definitive Proxy Statement |
|  | Definitive Additional Materials |
|  | Soliciting Material under §240.14a-12 |
| HANCOCK WHITNEY CORPORATION | HANCOCK WHITNEY CORPORATION |
| **(Name of registrant as specified in its charter)** | **(Name of registrant as specified in its charter)** |
| **(Name of person(s) filing proxy statement, if other than the registrant)** | **(Name of person(s) filing proxy statement, if other than the registrant)** |
| Payment of Filing Fee (Check all boxes that apply): | Payment of Filing Fee (Check all boxes that apply): |
|  | No fee required |
|  | Fee paid previously with preliminary materials |
|  | Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(1) and 0-11 |

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|:---|:---|
| March 17, 2026 | ![img20590551_0.gif](img20590551_0.gif) |

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To Our Fellow Shareholders:

As we reflect on 2025, we are proud to report another year of strong financial performance and execution of our multi-year organic growth strategy. Hancock Whitney delivered improved profitability, balance sheet growth, and solid capital levels, all while advancing initiatives designed to create sustainable value for our clients, communities, associates, and shareholders.

**Financial Highlights**

In 2025, the Company made meaningful progress on improving profitability with net income per diluted share (EPS) of $5.67, compared to $5.28 in 2024, an increase of 7%. Year over year, adjusted pre-provision net revenue (PPNR)\* increased 6% to $679.9 million, net interest income (te) grew 2%, and net interest margin (te) improved 10 basis points to 3.47%, despite a declining rate environment.

Fee income increased 12% in 2025, compared to 2024, led by 25% growth in trust fees following our acquisition of Sabal Trust Company. Additionally, the hard work of our dedicated associates resulted in increases in fee income across all categories, and we remain focused on finding opportunities to build these income streams. Expenses, adjusted for supplemental disclosure items, were up 4% in 2025, reflecting targeted investments in technology and other revenue enhancing initiatives.

Supplemental disclosure items in 2025 include a charge of $5.9 million (pre-tax), or $0.05 per share after tax, related to our acquisition of Sabal Trust Company. The results in 2024 include a charge of $3.8 million (pre-tax), or $0.03 per share after tax, related to a revision to the FDIC special assessment charge.

At year-end 2025, total loans reached $24.0 billion, up 3% from 2024, with broad-based growth across our footprint driven by strong client demand and higher production as we execute on our multi-year organic growth strategy. Total deposits ended 2025 at $29.3 billion, down $213 million, or 1%, from 2024, influenced by the falling interest rate environment. We ended 2025 with a loan-to-deposit ratio of 81.83%, compared to 79.00% in 2024.

We ended 2025 in a strong capital position, with a common equity tier one ratio of 13.65% and a tangible common equity ratio of 10.06%. In January 2025, the Board of Directors approved an increase of $0.05 per common share, or 12.5%, on the quarterly dividend payment, which brought total dividends payable to shareholders to $0.45 per common share. In January 2026, the Board of Directors approved a further dividend increase to $0.50 per common share. We are very proud to have paid an uninterrupted quarterly dividend since 1967. Proactive capital management in 2025 resulted in capital deployment through our acquisition of Sabal Trust Company, dividend increases, and the repurchase of approximately 5% of the Company's outstanding common shares.

**Positioned for Growth** Our shift toward balance sheet growth in 2025 was supported by effective balance-sheet management, targeted investments in growth markets, and enhanced digital capabilities. We strengthened our product offerings for clients and maintained efficient operations that we believe position us to scale as we continue growing the Company.

As we enter 2026, we remain focused on sustaining this growth trajectory. We plan to continue our investment in new revenue producers and technology to deliver exceptional client experiences. These efforts reflect our 126-year legacy and our commitment to generating strong, consistent shareholder returns.

On behalf of our Board of Directors, leadership team, and associates, thank you for your continued trust and support. We look forward to building on the strength of 2025 as we pursue new opportunities for growth and long-term value creation for our shareholders.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| ![img20590551_1.jpg](img20590551_1.jpg) | ![img20590551_2.jpg](img20590551_2.jpg) |
| Jerry L. Levens<br>Chairman of the Board | John M. Hairston<br>President & CEO<br>|

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;\* Non-GAAP measure. Reconciliation included in the following proxy statement.

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March 17, 2026

![img20590551_3.gif](img20590551_3.gif)<br>

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS

_______________________________

To our Shareholders:

Hancock Whitney Corporation (the Company) will hold its Annual Meeting of Shareholders on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Central Time in virtual-only format via audio webcast. To attend the annual meeting, go to www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/HWC2026 and log in using the control number on your proxy card, voting instruction form or notice. The annual meeting will be held for the following purposes:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1.To elect five directors to serve until the 2029 annual meeting of shareholders;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.To approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation of our named executive officers;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.To ratify the selection of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as the Company's independent registered public accounting firm for 2026.

Only holders of record of shares of our common stock at the close of business on March 2, 2026 are entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the meeting or any adjournment thereof. We direct your attention to the attached proxy statement for more complete information regarding the matters to be acted upon at the annual meeting.

Your vote is important whether or not you expect to attend the meeting. If voting by mail, please mark, date, sign and promptly return the enclosed proxy in the accompanying envelope. No postage is required if mailed in the United States. You may later revoke your proxy and vote during the meeting.

By order of the Board of Directors,

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| ![img20590551_4.jpg](img20590551_4.jpg) | ![img20590551_5.jpg](img20590551_5.jpg) |
| Jerry L. Levens<br>Chairman of the Board | John M. Hairston<br>President & CEO |

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Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the<br>Shareholder Meeting to be held on April 29, 2026:<br>The notice of annual meeting, proxy statement, proxy card and the 2025 annual report for the period ending December 31, 2025, are available at https://materials.proxyvote.com/410120<br>

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**Table of Contents**

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| [<u>PROXY STATEMENT SUMMARY</u>](#proxy_statement_summary) | 1 |
| <u>INFORMATION ABOUT THE ANNUAL MEETING AND VOTING</u> | 5 |
| [<u>proposal no. 1 eLECTION OF DIRECTORS</u>](#proposal_no_1) | 9 |
| [<u>INFORMATION ABOUT OUR DIRECTORS</u>](#information_about_our_directors) | 11 |
| [<u>SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT</u>](#security_ownership_certain_beneficial_o) | 26 |
| [<u>DELINQUENT SECTION 16(a) REPORTS</u>](#delinquent_section16) | 28 |
| [<u>BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE</u>](#board_directors_corporate_governance) | 28 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[<u>Board of Directors</u>](#board_directors) | 28 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[<u>Board and Management Leadership Structure</u>](#board_management_leadership_structure) | 29 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[<u>Board Committees</u>](#board_committees) | 29 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[<u>Board's Role in Risk Oversight</u>](#boards_role_in_risk_oversight) | 31 |
| [<u>COMPENSATION OF DIRECTORS</u>](#compensation_directors) | 32 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[<u>Director Compensation Program</u>](#director_compensation_program) | 32 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[<u>Cash Compensation</u>](#cash_compensation) | 32 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[<u>Equity Compensation</u>](#equity_compensation) | 32 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[<u>Director Stock Ownership Guidelines</u>](#director_stock_ownership_guidelines) | 33 |
| [<u>COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION</u>](#compensation_committee_interlocks) | 33 |
| [<u>COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS</u>](#compensation_discussion_analysis) | 34 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[<u>Executive Summary</u>](#executive_summary) | 34 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[<u>Objectives of the Company's Compensation Program</u>](#objectives_company_compensation_program) | 36 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[<u>Sound Compensation and Governance Practices</u>](#executive_compensation_best_practices) | 37 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[<u>Results of 2025 Advisory Shareholder Vote on Executive Compensation</u>](#results_2022_advisory_shareholder_vote) | 38 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[<u>Compensation Review Process</u>](#compensation_review_process) | 38 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[<u>Elements of Our Compensation Program</u>](#elements_our_compensation_program) | 40 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[<u>Risk Assessment of Compensation Policies and Practices</u>](#risk_assessment_compensation_policies_pr) | 44 |
| [<u>COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT</u>](#compensation_committee_report) | 44 |
| [<u>EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION</u>](#executive_compensation) | 45 |
| [<u>S</u><u>ummary Compensation Table</u>](#summary_compensation_table) | 45 |
| [<u>G</u><u>rants of Plan-Based Awards</u>](#grants_of_plan_based_awards) | 46 |
| [<u>Outstanding Equity Awards</u>](#outstanding_equity_awards) | 47 |
| [<u>Options Exercises and Stock Vested</u>](#options_exercises_stock_vested) | 48 |
| [<u>Pension Benefits</u>](#pension_benefits) | 48 |
| [<u>Nonqualified Deferred Compensation</u>](#nonqualified_deferred_compensation) | 49 |
| [<u>Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change-in-Control</u>](#potential_payments_upon_termination_or_c) | 51 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[<u>CEO Pay Ratio</u>](#ceo_pay_ratio) | 54 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[<u>Pay Versus Performance</u>](#pay_for_performance) | 54 |
| [<u>PROPOSAL NO. 2 ADVISORY VOTE ON COMPENSATION OF NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS</u>](#proposal_no_2) | 59 |
| [<u>TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PERSONS</u>](#transactions_with_related_persons) | 60 |
| [<u>INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM</u>](#independent_registered_public_accounting) | 61 |
| [<u>AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT</u>](#audit_committee_report) | 62 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[<u>PROPOSAL NO. 3 RATIFICATION OF SELECTION OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM</u>](#proposal_no_4) | 63 |
| [<u>SHAREHOLDER COMMUNICATIONS</u>](#shareholder_communications) | 63 |
| [<u>OTHER MATTERS</u>](#or_matters) | 63 |
| [<u>SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS FOR THE 2027 ANNUAL MEETING</u>](#shareholder_proposals_for_2023_annual_me) | 64 |
| [<u>APPENDIX A:</u> <u>RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES</u>](#appendix_a) | 65 |

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**PROXY STATEMENT SUMMARY**<br>

This summary highlights certain information contained elsewhere in this proxy statement. This summary does not contain all of the information you should consider prior to voting. Please read the entire proxy statement carefully before voting.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**2026 Annual Meeting Information**<br>**(see pages 5-9)** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**2026 Annual Meeting Information**<br>**(see pages 5-9)** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*Date:* | Wednesday, April 29, 2026 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*Time*: | 11:00 a.m. Central Time |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*Location*: | Please visit www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/HWC2026 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*Record Date*: | March 2, 2026 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*Admission*: | To attend and participate in the meeting, you will need the control number included on your proxy card or notice if you are a shareholder of record or included in your voting instruction card and voting instructions you received from your broker. Although you may vote online during the virtual Annual Meeting, we encourage you to vote via the Internet, by telephone or by mail prior to the meeting as outlined in the Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy Materials or on your proxy card to ensure that your shares are represented and voted.<br>|

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Items of Business** | **Items of Business** | **Items of Business** | **Items of Business** |
|  | Proposal | Board Recommendation | Page Number |
| 1. | Elect five directors to serve until the 2029 annual meeting of shareholders | FOR all Nominees | 9 |
| 2. | Approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation of our named executive officers | FOR | 59 |
| 3. | Ratify the selection of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as the Company's independent registered public accounting firm for 2026 | FOR | 63 |

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**Fiscal Year 2025 Company Performance Highlights**<br>**(see page 35)**<br>

Hancock Whitney delivered another year of solid performance in 2025, reflecting continued balance sheet strength, disciplined credit management, and profitability growth. Full year net income totaled $486.1 million, or $5.67 per diluted share, compared to $460.8 million, or $5.28 per diluted share, in 2024. The results for 2025 include a pre-tax charge of $5.9 million, or $0.05 per share, related to our acquisition of Sabal Trust Company. The results for 2024 include a charge of $3.8 million (pre-tax), or $0.03 per share after tax, related to a revision to the FDIC special assessment charge. <br>The following is an overview of our financial results for the year ended December 31, 2025.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Net income of $486.1 million, or $5.67 per diluted share, compared to $460.8 million, or $5.28 per diluted share, in 2024<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Adjusted pre-provision net revenue (PPNR)\* totaled $679.9 million, up $38.9 million, or 6%, compared to 2024 <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Net interest margin expanded 10 basis points year-over-year to 3.47% in 2025<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Efficiency ratio improved to 54.78% in 2025, compared to 55.36% in 2024<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Total assets were $35.5 billion at December 31, 2025, up $391 million, or 1%, compared to December 31, 2024<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Loans at December 31, 2025 were $24.0 billion, up $659 million, or 3%, from December 31, 2024<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Deposits at December 31, 2025 were $29.3 billion, down $213 million, or 1%, compared to December 31, 2024<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Criticized commercial loans declined in all four quarters of 2025, while nonaccrual loans were relatively stable throughout the year; robust allowance for credit loss to total loans of 1.43% at December 31, 2025, compared to 1.47% at December 31, 2024<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Capital ratios remain strong and well above regulatory minimums with common equity tier 1 ratio (CET1) of 13.65% at December 31, 2025, down 49 bps from December 31, 2024; tangible common equity ratio was 10.06% at December 31, 2025, up 59 bps from December 31, 2024<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•During the first quarter of 2025, the Board of Directors declared an increase of 12.5% in the quarterly common stock cash dividend to $0.45 per share. Over the course of 2025, the Company also repurchased 4.3 million <br>

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;shares of its common stock. These actions reflect our strong regulatory capital position and our ongoing commitment to enhancing shareholder returns<br>Further details on our financial performance for the year ended December 31, 2025 can be found within the Compensation Discussion and Analysis ("CD&A") section. <br>\* For more information and for a reconciliation of this and other non-GAAP financial measures, refer to Appendix A to this proxy statement.<br>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**Corporate Governance Highlights**<br>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Independent Oversight<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Independent director, Jerry L. Levens, serves as the chairman of our Board. His responsibilities and duties promote our Board's independent functioning.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•With the exception of Mr. Hairston, who is our only employee director, all of our directors are independent under the listing standards of The Nasdaq Stock Market, LLC (Nasdaq). <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Our independent directors meet regularly in executive session without members of management present.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•With the exception of our Executive Committee, which includes Mr. Hairston, our Board committees and committee leadership are comprised entirely of independent directors.<br>Shareholder Engagement<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•We strive to maintain open and transparent communications with our shareholders and aim to optimize opportunities for engagement. <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•We utilize various channels to engage with shareholders and analysts including face-to-face and virtual meetings, conferences, road shows, investor calls, quarterly earnings calls, and annual shareholder meetings, as well as distributing regular communications through our quarterly shareholder letter and annual proxy statement.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•In 2025, we communicated with approximately 306 current and potential analysts and investors at 45 different investor conferences or industry sponsored calls, and in individual management calls. Additionally, we held annual review meetings with the rating agencies S&P Global and Moody's Investor Services.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•We maintain ongoing responsiveness to institutional and retail shareholders who directly contact us, and we remain committed to timely follow-up.<br>Diversifying and Refreshing the Board's Perspective<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Our Board seeks out independent, highly qualified candidates who also reflect a breadth of experience, skills, perspective, background, and geography, encouraging cognitive diversity and aiding in effective, independent oversight on behalf of all shareholders and stakeholders.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Our Board values fresh perspectives and 33% of our directors have been added since 2020.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Forty percent of the directors added to our Board since 2020 are women and one-third of our current directors are women, with four of the five women on our Board serving in leadership roles. <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Our ongoing director training program provides continuing education on various issues of importance to the Company.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•We have a mandatory retirement policy for directors that prohibits re-election after their 72nd birthday.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Our Board has established an ongoing Board succession planning process to ensure our Board continues to have the depth and breadth of experience and perspective needed for a strong financial institution.<br>Good Governance Practices<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Our Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee is responsible for overseeing the Company's corporate governance strategies and initiatives.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Our Compensation Committee is responsible for overseeing the Company's human capital strategies.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Each member of our Audit Committee has banking or related financial management expertise, and all four members are "financial experts" as defined by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Our Insider Trading Policy prohibits directors, officers and other associates from hedging Hancock Whitney stock.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•During 2025, none of our directors or executive officers held shares of Company stock that were pledged.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•We have stock ownership and retention guidelines for directors and executive officers.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•During 2025, each of the incumbent directors attended at least 75% of the aggregate number of meetings of the Board and the committees of the Board on which he or she served and all directors attended our 2025 annual meeting of shareholders. <br>

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Our directors perform an annual evaluation of the Board to satisfy its obligation to represent the long-term interests of our shareholders, clients, communities and associates. <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Our Corporate Governance Guidelines prohibit our directors from serving on more than three other public company boards in addition to our Board. <br>

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|:---|
| **Executive Compensation Best Practices**<br>**(see page 37)** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Significant percentage of executive target compensation is performance-based <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Majority of long-term incentives awarded to executives are performance-based <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•No excise tax gross-up provisions in change in control agreements <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Compensation recoupment policy compliant with applicable listing standards of Nasdaq and Rule 10D-1 under the Exchange Act including mandatory and discretionary recoupment<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Limited perquisites <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Stock ownership requirements <br>|

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Current Directors and Director Nominees** | **Current Directors and Director Nominees** | **Current Directors and Director Nominees** | **Current Directors and Director Nominees** | **Current Directors and Director Nominees** | **Current Directors and Director Nominees** |
| **Name** | **2026<br>Nominee** | **Director Since** | **Independent** | **Position** | **Current<br>Committee Memberships** |
| Frank E. Bertucci | ✔ | 2000 | ✔ | President of F.E.B. Distributing Co., Inc. and Chief Executive Officer of Capital City Beverage | Board Risk (Chair)<br>Executive |
| Constantine S. Liollio | ✔ | 2016 | ✔ | Senior Vice President, Special Projects, Plains All American | Compensation (Chair)<br>Corporate Governance &<br>& Nominating<br>Executive |
| Thomas H. Olinde | ✔ | 2009 | ✔ | President of Olinde Hardware and Supply Co., Inc. and Managing Member and Director of B. Olinde and Sons Co., LLC | Compensation<br>Corporate Governance &<br>Nominating (Chair)<br>Executive |
| Joan C. Teofilo | ✔ | 2016 | ✔ | President and Chief Executive Officer of The Energy Authority | Board Risk (Vice Chair) |
| C. Richard Wilkins | ✔ | 2016 | ✔ | Sole Member, C. Richard Wilkins, Attorney at Law, PLLC | Board Risk |
| Moses H. Feagin Sr. |  | 2024 | ✔ | Executive Vice President, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer of Alabama Power | Audit <br>Board Risk |
| John M. Hairston |  | 2006 |  | President of the Company and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and the Bank | Executive |
| Randall W. Hanna |  | 2009 | ✔ | Dean of Florida State University Panama City and Florida State University College of Applied Studies | Board Risk<br>Executive |
| Suzette K. Kent |  | 2020 | ✔ | CEO of Kent Advisory Services, LLC and Former Federal Chief Information Officer of the United States | Compensation<br>Corporate Governance & <br> Nominating (Vice Chair)<br>Executive |
| H. Merritt Lane, III |  | 2021 | ✔ | President and Chief Executive Officer of Canal Barge LLC | Board Risk<br>Compensation (Vice Chair) |
| Jerry L. Levens<br>(Chairman of the Board) |  | 2009 | ✔ | Retired Partner of CPA firm of Alexander, Van Loon, Sloan, Levens & Favre, PLLC | Audit<br>Compensation<br>Executive (Chair) |
| Sonya C. Little |  | 2016 | ✔ | President and Chief Operating Officer of COI Energy, Inc. | Audit (Vice Chair)<br>Corporate Governance & Nominating |
| Sonia A. Pérez |  | 2021 | ✔ | Retired President of Southeast States, AT&T Inc. | Board Risk |
| Christine L. Pickering |  | 2000 | ✔ | Owner of Christy Pickering, CPA | Audit (Chair)<br>Corporate Governance & <br>Nominating<br>Executive |
| Albert J. Williams |  | 2025 | ✔ | Managing Member, AJ Williams LLC | Board Risk |

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**INFORMATION ABOUT THE ANNUAL MEETING AND VOTING**<br>

Why am I receiving these proxy materials?

You are receiving these materials because you owned shares of our common stock at the close of business on March 2, 2026, the record date for the meeting, and are entitled to vote those shares at the meeting. All materials for the 2026 annual meeting are available to you online at https://materials.proxyvote.com/410120 beginning on March 17, 2026 and, in some cases, we have delivered printed proxy materials to you. This proxy statement summarizes information you should consider in connection with the matters that will be voted on at the annual meeting. You do not need to attend the annual meeting to vote your shares.

When and where is the annual meeting?

We will hold the annual meeting on Wednesday April 29, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Central Time in a virtual-only format via audio webcast. Shareholders will be able to attend the annual meeting by visiting www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/HWC2026. There will be no physical, in-person meeting. See "How can I attend the annual meeting?" below regarding how to attend the meeting.

How can I attend the annual meeting?

If you are a shareholder of record or beneficial owner of common stock holding shares on March 2, 2026, the record date, you may attend the meeting by visiting www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/HWC2026 and logging in by entering the control number found on your proxy card, voting instruction form or notice, as applicable.

Shareholders who cannot locate their control number and whose shares are (i) held of record (directly with our transfer agent) or (ii) credited to their associate account in the Hancock Whitney Corporation 401(k) Savings Plan, may contact our Investor Relations team at InvestorRelations@hancockwhitney.com to receive a duplicate control number. Shareholders who cannot locate their control number and whose shares are held in street name (through a broker, bank or other nominee) should contact their broker or nominee to receive a duplicate control number.

Why did I receive a notice of internet availability of proxy materials instead of a full set of proxy materials?

In accordance with the rules of the SEC, we are permitted to furnish proxy materials, including this proxy statement and our 2025 annual report, to shareholders by providing access to these documents online instead of mailing printed copies. Most shareholders will not receive printed copies of the proxy materials unless requested. Instead, most shareholders will only receive a notice that provides instructions on how to access and review our proxy materials online. We have elected electronic access to our proxy materials to save the Company the cost of producing and mailing these documents. We believe this expedites shareholder receipt of proxy materials, lowers the costs incurred by us and conserves natural resources. The notice also provides instructions on how to submit your proxy and vote online or by phone. If you would like to receive a printed copy or emailed copy of our proxy materials free of charge, please follow the instructions set forth in the notice to request the materials.

Who is soliciting my proxy?

Our Board is soliciting a proxy to vote the shares that you are entitled to vote at our 2026 annual meeting, whether or not you attend the meeting. By completing, signing, dating and returning the proxy card or voting instruction card, or submitting your proxy online or by phone with your voting instructions, you are authorizing the proxy holders to vote your shares at our annual meeting in accordance with your instructions.

Who may vote at the annual meeting?

You may vote at the annual meeting if you owned Company common stock at the close of business on March 2, 2026, the record date for the meeting. You are entitled to one vote for each share of our common stock held by you on the record date, including shares:

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| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•held directly in your name with our transfer agent (with respect to such shares you are referred to as the "shareholder of record"); |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•held for you in an account with a broker, bank or other nominee (such shares are considered to be held in "street name"); and |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•credited to your associate account in the Hancock Whitney Corporation 401(k) Savings Plan (the Hancock Whitney 401(k) Plan). |

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How many shares must be present to hold the annual meeting?

A majority of the outstanding shares of our common stock as of the record date must be present at the annual meeting to convene the meeting and conduct business. This is called a quorum. On the record date, there were 81,546,524 shares of our common stock outstanding and entitled to vote. Accordingly, 40,773,263 shares of our common stock constitute a quorum. If you are a street name holder and you do not instruct your broker or nominee how to vote your shares on any of the proposals, and your broker or nominee submits a proxy with respect to your shares on a matter with respect to which discretionary voting is permitted, your shares will be counted as present at the annual meeting for purposes of determining whether a quorum exists. In addition, shareholders of record who are present at the annual meeting virtually (see "How can I attend the annual meeting" above for information on how to attend virtually) or by proxy will be counted as present at the annual meeting for purposes of determining whether a quorum exists, whether or not such holder abstains from voting on any or all of the proposals.

What proposals are scheduled for a vote at the annual meeting?

There are three proposals scheduled for a shareholder vote at the annual meeting:

1. To elect five directors to serve until the 2029 annual meeting of shareholders;

2. To approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation of our named executive officers (say-on-pay proposal);

3. To ratify the selection of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as the Company's independent registered public accounting firm for 2026.

How do I vote my shares and ask questions during the annual meeting?

Shareholders may vote and submit questions during the annual meeting by following the instructions available on the virtual meeting website. Technical assistance will be available for those attending the meeting. See "How can I attend the annual meeting?" above regarding how to attend the meeting.

Shareholders may also submit questions in advance of the meeting at www.proxyvote.com by entering the control number found on their proxy card, voting instruction form or notice, as applicable, and following the instructions on that site. We encourage shareholders who wish to submit a question to read our rules and procedures for the conduct of the annual meeting appearing on the proxy vote and virtual shareholder meeting websites.

Even if you plan to attend the annual meeting, we encourage you to submit your voting instructions and proxy online, by phone or by mail (as described below) so your shares will be counted as present and voted if you later decide not to attend.

How do I vote my shares without attending the annual meeting?

Whether you hold shares in your own name, in street name or through the Hancock Whitney 401(k) Plan, you may vote your shares without attending the annual meeting.

*Shareholders of Record and Shareholders through the Hancock Whitney 401(k) Plan:* You may submit a proxy to vote your shares in any of the following ways:

• *Online* – You may submit your proxy and voting instructions online by following the instructions on the notice or proxy card prior to the deadline for online submissions. If you submit your proxy and voting instructions online, you do not need to return a proxy card. The online submission procedures will authenticate your identity as a shareholder, allow you to give your voting instructions and submit your proxy and confirm that your instructions have been properly received. The deadline for online submissions is 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (10:59 p.m. Central Time) on April 28, 2026.

• *By Phone* – You may submit your proxy and voting instructions by using any touch-tone telephone and following the instructions on the notice or proxy card prior to the deadline for telephone submissions. If you submit your proxy and voting instructions by telephone, you do not need to return a proxy card. The telephone submission procedures will authenticate your identity as a shareholder, allow you to give your voting instructions and submit your proxy and confirm that your instructions have been properly received. The deadline for phone submissions is 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (10:59 p.m. Central Time) on April 28, 2026.

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• *By Mail* – If you received or requested printed materials, you may submit your proxy and voting instructions by mail by completing, signing, dating, and returning your proxy card in the postage prepaid envelope provided. You should sign your name exactly as it appears on the proxy card. If you are signing in a representative capacity (for example, as guardian, executor, trustee, custodian, attorney, or officer of a corporation), you should indicate your name and your title or capacity. The Corporate Secretary must receive your proxy card by 9:00 a.m. Central Time on April 29, 2026 in order for your shares to be voted.

*Street Name Shareholders*: For shares held in street name, you should follow the voting directions provided by your broker or nominee. You may complete and mail a voting instruction card to your broker or nominee or, if permitted by your broker or nominee, submit voting instructions online. If you provide specific voting instructions, your broker or nominee will vote your shares as you direct.

What happens if I submit a proxy without complete instructions or if I do not vote at all? On which proposals may my shares be voted without receiving voting instructions from me?

If you properly complete, sign, date, and return a proxy or voting instruction card, or submit your proxy online, your stock will be voted as you specify.

If you do not submit a proxy or voting instruction card, or if you submit a properly executed proxy with incomplete voting instructions, whether your shares may be voted depends upon two factors – whether you are a shareholder of record or a street name shareholder and, if you are a street name shareholder, whether the proposal is considered routine or non-routine under New York Stock Exchange rules that apply to securities intermediaries (such as brokers, banks, and other nominees).

*Shareholders of Record and Shareholders through the Hancock Whitney 401(k) Plan:* If you do not provide voting instructions on any matter (either by not returning a proxy card or not voting online or due to incomplete voting instructions) and you do not vote during the meeting, your shares will not be voted on the matter for which instructions are not received. If you do not submit a proxy at all and do not vote during the annual meeting, your shares will not be voted on any matter. However, if you submit a properly executed proxy card but do not provide voting instructions, your proxy will vote as recommended by the Board of Directors, which will be as follows at the 2026 Annual Meeting: **FOR** all five nominees under Proposal 1, **FOR** Proposal 2, **FOR** Proposal 3, and as the proxies decide on any matter properly brought before the meeting.

*Street Name Shareholders*: If you hold shares in street name and you do not provide voting instructions to your broker, bank, or other nominee, your broker, bank, or other nominee only has discretionary authority to vote your shares on routine matters. The proposal to ratify the Board's selection of the independent registered public accounting firm is considered a routine matter. However, the proposal to elect directors and the say-on-pay proposal are each considered non-routine matters and if you do not provide voting instructions on those non-routine proposals your shares will not be voted on those proposals.

A broker non-vote occurs when a broker holding shares for you in street name submits a proxy that votes your shares on one or more matters, but does not vote (the broker non-vote) on non-routine matters with respect to which you have not given voting instructions.

What are my voting options for each proposal? How does the Board of Directors recommend that I vote? How many votes are required to approve each proposal? How are the votes counted?

The following chart explains what your voting options are with regard to each matter proposed in this proxy statement, how the Board of Directors recommends that you vote on each proposal, what vote is required for each proposal to be approved, and how abstentions, withheld votes, and broker non-votes will affect the outcome of each proposal.

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| **Proposal** | **Election of <br>Directors** | **Say-on-Pay<br>(advisory)** | **Ratification of Selection<br>of Auditors for 2026** |
| **Your Voting Options** | You may vote "FOR" each nominee or choose to "WITHHOLD" your vote for one or more of the five nominees. | You may vote "FOR" or "AGAINST" this proposal or you may "ABSTAIN" from voting. | You may vote "FOR" or "AGAINST" this proposal or you may "ABSTAIN" from voting. |
| **Recommendation of the Board of Directors** | The Board recommends you vote "FOR" each of the five nominees. | The Board recommends that you vote "FOR" the approval, on an advisory basis, of the compensation of our named executive officers as disclosed in this proxy statement. | The Board recommends that you vote "FOR" ratification of our selection of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as the Company's independent registered public accounting firm for 2026. |
| **Vote Required for Approval** | Plurality of the votes cast\* | Majority of the votes cast | Majority of the votes cast |
| **Effect of Withheld Vote or Abstention** | No effect | No effect | No effect |
| **Effect of Broker Non-vote** | No effect | No effect | Not applicable |

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\* A plurality vote means that the five nominees who receive the five highest numbers of votes cast in the election of directors will be elected as directors, even if less than a majority.

What does it mean if I receive more than one set of proxy materials?

If you receive more than one notice, proxy card or voting instruction card, it means you hold shares registered in more than one name, or through multiple street name accounts. To ensure that all of your shares are represented at the meeting and voted, complete, sign, date and return each proxy card or voting instruction card, or if you submit your proxy and voting instructions online or by phone, do so for each notice, proxy card and voting instruction card you receive. If you plan to vote during the annual meeting, please refer to "How do I vote my shares and ask questions during the annual meeting?" above for additional information.

May I change my vote?

Yes. Your proxy may be revoked or changed at any time before it is voted by providing notice of revocation in writing to our Corporate Secretary, by our timely receipt of another proxy with a later date, by a later-dated online vote, or by voting during the annual meeting. Written notice should be provided to Juanita P. Kuhner, our Corporate Secretary, at or before the annual meeting. Ms. Kuhner's office is located in Hancock Whitney Plaza, 2510 14th Street, Gulfport, Mississippi 39501. The notice must be received prior to the exercise of the proxy. Your attendance alone at the annual meeting will not be enough to revoke your proxy.

If you hold shares in street name, you must follow your broker's instructions to change your vote.

Who pays for soliciting proxies?

The Company pays all costs of soliciting proxies. In addition, directors, officers and regular associates of the Company and its banking subsidiary, Hancock Whitney Bank (the Bank), may solicit proxies by mail, telephone, email or personal interview, but will not receive additional compensation for such solicitations.

Could other matters be considered and voted upon at the annual meeting?

Our Board does not expect to bring any other matter before the annual meeting, and it is not aware of any other matter that may be considered at the annual meeting. In addition, pursuant to our Bylaws, the deadline has expired for any shareholder to properly bring a matter before the annual meeting. However, if any other matter does properly come before the annual meeting, each of the proxy holders will vote in his discretion on such matter.

What happens if the annual meeting is postponed or adjourned?

Unless a new record date is fixed, your proxy will still be valid and may be voted at the postponed or adjourned annual meeting. You will still be able to change or revoke your proxy until it is used to vote your shares of our common stock.

How do I obtain additional copies of SEC filings?

Copies of all of our filings with the SEC may be obtained free of charge by clicking on "SEC Filings" on our Investor Relations website at investors.hancockwhitney.com.

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If you would like to receive a printed copy of our reports on Forms 10-K and 10-Q as filed with the SEC, you may request these by contacting Kathryn Shrout Mistich, Manager, Investor Relations, Hancock Whitney Corporation, by mail at P.O. Box 4019, Gulfport, Mississippi 39502; or by phone at (504) 539-7836 or toll free (800) 522-6542; or by sending an e-mail to the following address: InvestorRelations@hancockwhitney.com. We will provide printed copies of our Forms 10-K and 10-Q to you free of charge (including any financial statements and financial statement schedules), but delivery of any other exhibits to those filings will require advance payment of a fee.

**PROPOSAL NO. 1**<br>**ELECTION OF DIRECTORS**<br>

Our Articles of Incorporation authorize the Board to determine how many directors the Company will have, provided that the Company must at all times have at least nine directors, divided into three classes. As of the record date, we had 15 directors, 14 of whom are independent and five of whom have terms expiring at the annual meeting.

Director Election Requirements

Directors are elected by a plurality of the votes cast, which means that the five director nominees who receive the five highest numbers of shares voted "for" their election are elected to the Board. Our Board has adopted a director resignation policy, which provides that if a director standing for election receives a greater number of "withheld" votes than "for" votes, the director will promptly tender his or her resignation. The Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee (the Corporate Governance Committee) will recommend to the Board whether to accept or reject the resignation and otherwise address any noted shareholder concerns. The Board will act on the Corporate Governance Committee's recommendation within 90 days of the annual meeting, and the Company will disclose the Board's decision and any other material information on a current report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC.

In the unexpected event that, prior to the date of the annual meeting, any nominee becomes unwilling or unable to serve, it is intended that the proxy holders will vote for the election of any replacement nominee recommended by the Board.

Nominations for election to the Board may be made as set forth under the heading "Board of Directors and Corporate Governance – Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee" on page 30 of this proxy statement.

Nominees for Election as Directors

The five directors described below have terms expiring at the annual meeting and have been nominated for re-election.

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|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Director Nominees** | **Director Nominees** | **Director Nominees** | **Director Nominees** | **Director Nominees** |
| **Name** | **2026<br>Nominee** | **Director Since** | **Position** | **Current<br>Committee Memberships** |
| Frank E. Bertucci | ✔ | 2000 | President of F.E.B. Distributing Co., Inc. and Chief Executive Officer of Capital City Beverage | Board Risk (Chair)<br>Executive |
| Constantine S. Liollio | ✔ | 2016 | Senior Vice President, Special Projects, Plains All American | Compensation (Chair)<br>Corporate Governance &<br>Nominating<br>Executive |
| Thomas H. Olinde | ✔ | 2009 | President of Olinde Hardware and Supply Co., Inc. and Managing Member and Director of B. Olinde and Sons Co., LLC | Compensation<br>Corporate Governance &<br>Nominating (Chair)<br>Executive |
| Joan C. Teofilo | ✔ | 2016 | President and Chief Executive Officer of The Energy Authority | Board Risk (Vice Chair) |
| C. Richard Wilkins | ✔ | 2016 | Sole Member, C. Richard Wilkins, Attorney at Law, PLLC | Board Risk |

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The Corporate Governance Committee met in February 2026 to evaluate each of the nominees standing for re-election and election, as applicable, to the Board. Based on the Corporate Governance Committee's evaluation and unanimous recommendation, the Board has nominated each of these nominees for election as directors for a three-year term expiring at the Company's 2029 annual meeting of shareholders. Each of these individuals is currently serving as a director of our Company.

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**Composition Highlights**

As a whole, our Board has a wide range of skills and expertise including those listed in the director biographies below, and is comprised of five women and ten men, three individuals who self-identify as African American and one individual who self-identifies as Latina. This year's nominees demonstrate the following areas of skill and expertise, among others.<sup>1</sup>

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| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;- Federal and state government regulation<br>- Knowledge of Gulf Coast markets<br>- Mergers and acquisitions<br>- Risk management<br>- Strategic planning<br>- Corporate governance<br>- Regulated utility industry experience<br>- Commercial experience<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;- Public company leadership<br>- Management of national and international business operations<br>- Executive leadership<br>- Legal experience<br>- Real estate development<br>- Energy industry experience<br>- Environmental risk assessment |

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These areas of skill and expertise are in addition to the qualifications, qualities and skills we look for in all of our directors, as described under the heading "Board of Directors and Corporate Governance – Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee" on page 30 of this proxy statement, all of which are more fully described in the nominees' respective biographies below.

The Corporate Governance Committee regularly assesses the composition of the Board and the qualifications and skills of each director. In recommending candidates for nomination, the Corporate Governance Committee takes into consideration a number of factors, including the expertise, qualifications, qualities and skills described above. The Corporate Governance Committee and the Board believe that each nominee is well qualified to be a Hancock Whitney director.

**THE BOARD RECOMMENDS THAT SHAREHOLDERS VOTE "FOR" ALL FIVE DIRECTOR NOMINEES.**

**_______________________**

<sup>[1]</sup> On a self-reported basis.

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**INFORMATION ABOUT OUR DIRECTORS**<br>

The following sets forth self-reported biographical information we have obtained from the director nominees and continuing directors, including each director's age on the record date, tenure, business experience and current director positions with other public companies. The following also sets forth the director's particular experience, qualifications, attributes, or skills that, when considered in the aggregate, led the Board to conclude that the person should serve as a director of the Company.

Nominees for Election at the Annual Meeting with Terms Expiring in 2029

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| ![img20590551_6.jpg](img20590551_6.jpg)<br>| Frank E. Bertucci<br>Age: 69<br>Director since 2000<br>Independent<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;Position<br>President of F.E.B. Distributing Co., Inc. and<br>Chief Executive Officer of Capital City Beverage<br>Committee Membership<br>Board Risk (Chair) │ Executive |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Bertucci has served as the President of F.E.B. Distributing Co., Inc., a regional beverage wholesaler, since 1990, having started with the company in 1978. He has also served as the Chief Executive Officer of Capital City Beverage, a beverage distributorship, since 2001. His companies are present throughout Mississippi, including the two largest markets in the state, one of which is the Gulf Coast region. He has been actively involved in risk management and strategic planning of his companies, including leading and managing acquisitions. Prior to joining our board, he served as a director of Hancock Bank from 1995 to 2000. In addition to his current committee service, Mr. Bertucci has previously served on our Audit Committee and Compensation Committee.<br>Mr. Bertucci is a director of the Mississippi Beer Distributors Association in Jackson, Mississippi, and a director of Fullhouse Venture Company L.P. of Gulfport, Mississippi, a limited partnership engaged in the business of real estate holdings. He is also a member of the Gulf Coast Business Council.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Federal and state government regulation<br> Knowledge of Mississippi Gulf Coast markets<br> Mergers and acquisitions<br> Risk management<br> Strategic planning<br>Mr. Bertucci's substantial experience in business, strategic planning, risk management and mergers and acquisitions, coupled with his extensive knowledge of our Mississippi market, makes him well qualified to serve as a director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Bertucci has been involved in numerous civic and nonprofit organizations throughout the Mississippi Gulf Coast market and currently serves on the board of the Mississippi Gulf Resort Classic Foundation, a nonprofit organization. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Bertucci has served as the President of F.E.B. Distributing Co., Inc., a regional beverage wholesaler, since 1990, having started with the company in 1978. He has also served as the Chief Executive Officer of Capital City Beverage, a beverage distributorship, since 2001. His companies are present throughout Mississippi, including the two largest markets in the state, one of which is the Gulf Coast region. He has been actively involved in risk management and strategic planning of his companies, including leading and managing acquisitions. Prior to joining our board, he served as a director of Hancock Bank from 1995 to 2000. In addition to his current committee service, Mr. Bertucci has previously served on our Audit Committee and Compensation Committee.<br>Mr. Bertucci is a director of the Mississippi Beer Distributors Association in Jackson, Mississippi, and a director of Fullhouse Venture Company L.P. of Gulfport, Mississippi, a limited partnership engaged in the business of real estate holdings. He is also a member of the Gulf Coast Business Council.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Federal and state government regulation<br> Knowledge of Mississippi Gulf Coast markets<br> Mergers and acquisitions<br> Risk management<br> Strategic planning<br>Mr. Bertucci's substantial experience in business, strategic planning, risk management and mergers and acquisitions, coupled with his extensive knowledge of our Mississippi market, makes him well qualified to serve as a director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Bertucci has been involved in numerous civic and nonprofit organizations throughout the Mississippi Gulf Coast market and currently serves on the board of the Mississippi Gulf Resort Classic Foundation, a nonprofit organization. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Bertucci has served as the President of F.E.B. Distributing Co., Inc., a regional beverage wholesaler, since 1990, having started with the company in 1978. He has also served as the Chief Executive Officer of Capital City Beverage, a beverage distributorship, since 2001. His companies are present throughout Mississippi, including the two largest markets in the state, one of which is the Gulf Coast region. He has been actively involved in risk management and strategic planning of his companies, including leading and managing acquisitions. Prior to joining our board, he served as a director of Hancock Bank from 1995 to 2000. In addition to his current committee service, Mr. Bertucci has previously served on our Audit Committee and Compensation Committee.<br>Mr. Bertucci is a director of the Mississippi Beer Distributors Association in Jackson, Mississippi, and a director of Fullhouse Venture Company L.P. of Gulfport, Mississippi, a limited partnership engaged in the business of real estate holdings. He is also a member of the Gulf Coast Business Council.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Federal and state government regulation<br> Knowledge of Mississippi Gulf Coast markets<br> Mergers and acquisitions<br> Risk management<br> Strategic planning<br>Mr. Bertucci's substantial experience in business, strategic planning, risk management and mergers and acquisitions, coupled with his extensive knowledge of our Mississippi market, makes him well qualified to serve as a director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Bertucci has been involved in numerous civic and nonprofit organizations throughout the Mississippi Gulf Coast market and currently serves on the board of the Mississippi Gulf Resort Classic Foundation, a nonprofit organization. |

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| &nbsp;&nbsp;![img20590551_7.jpg](img20590551_7.jpg)<br>| Constantine S. Liollio<br>Age: 67<br>Director since 2016<br>Independent<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;Position<br>Senior Vice President, Special Projects of Plains All American<br>Committee Membership<br>Compensation (Chair) │ Corporate Governance │ Executive |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Liollio has served as Senior Vice President, Special Projects of Plains All American since 2024. He served as President of Plains Midstream Canada ULC (PMC) from February 2020 to June 2024. PMC, which is headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, owns and operates midstream energy infrastructure and provides logistics services primarily for crude oil, natural gas liquids and natural gas customers in Canada and parts of the United States. PMC is a subsidiary of Plains All American Pipeline, L.P. (NYSE: PAA), a Houston-based publicly traded partnership. From 2008 through January 31, 2020, Mr. Liollio served as President of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNG), a natural gas storage business based in Houston, Texas that was a subsidiary of PAA. PNG was a publicly traded entity controlled by PAA from May 2010 through December 2013, during which time Mr. Liollio also served on PNG's Board of Directors. Mr. Liollio was responsible for developing and executing strategy, overseeing day-to-day operations, coordinating all disciplines and identifying areas for future expansion. Prior to joining PAA, he served for two years as President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Energy South, Inc., a publicly traded natural gas storage and utility business headquartered in Mobile, Alabama. He has deep expertise in midstream energy and substantial knowledge of and experience in natural gas storage operations in the Gulf Coast markets of Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida.<br>Mr. Liollio has been involved in numerous professional organizations and is currently a member of the Engineering Advisory council of Texas A&M University and serves on the Parish Council of Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Public company leadership<br> Corporate governance<br> Energy industry experience<br> Mergers and acquisitions<br> Strategic planning<br>Mr. Liollio's valuable public company experience, substantial experience in the energy industry and knowledge of the Gulf Coast markets that we serve make him well qualified to serve as a director of our Company. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Liollio has served as Senior Vice President, Special Projects of Plains All American since 2024. He served as President of Plains Midstream Canada ULC (PMC) from February 2020 to June 2024. PMC, which is headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, owns and operates midstream energy infrastructure and provides logistics services primarily for crude oil, natural gas liquids and natural gas customers in Canada and parts of the United States. PMC is a subsidiary of Plains All American Pipeline, L.P. (NYSE: PAA), a Houston-based publicly traded partnership. From 2008 through January 31, 2020, Mr. Liollio served as President of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNG), a natural gas storage business based in Houston, Texas that was a subsidiary of PAA. PNG was a publicly traded entity controlled by PAA from May 2010 through December 2013, during which time Mr. Liollio also served on PNG's Board of Directors. Mr. Liollio was responsible for developing and executing strategy, overseeing day-to-day operations, coordinating all disciplines and identifying areas for future expansion. Prior to joining PAA, he served for two years as President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Energy South, Inc., a publicly traded natural gas storage and utility business headquartered in Mobile, Alabama. He has deep expertise in midstream energy and substantial knowledge of and experience in natural gas storage operations in the Gulf Coast markets of Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida.<br>Mr. Liollio has been involved in numerous professional organizations and is currently a member of the Engineering Advisory council of Texas A&M University and serves on the Parish Council of Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Public company leadership<br> Corporate governance<br> Energy industry experience<br> Mergers and acquisitions<br> Strategic planning<br>Mr. Liollio's valuable public company experience, substantial experience in the energy industry and knowledge of the Gulf Coast markets that we serve make him well qualified to serve as a director of our Company. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Liollio has served as Senior Vice President, Special Projects of Plains All American since 2024. He served as President of Plains Midstream Canada ULC (PMC) from February 2020 to June 2024. PMC, which is headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, owns and operates midstream energy infrastructure and provides logistics services primarily for crude oil, natural gas liquids and natural gas customers in Canada and parts of the United States. PMC is a subsidiary of Plains All American Pipeline, L.P. (NYSE: PAA), a Houston-based publicly traded partnership. From 2008 through January 31, 2020, Mr. Liollio served as President of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNG), a natural gas storage business based in Houston, Texas that was a subsidiary of PAA. PNG was a publicly traded entity controlled by PAA from May 2010 through December 2013, during which time Mr. Liollio also served on PNG's Board of Directors. Mr. Liollio was responsible for developing and executing strategy, overseeing day-to-day operations, coordinating all disciplines and identifying areas for future expansion. Prior to joining PAA, he served for two years as President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Energy South, Inc., a publicly traded natural gas storage and utility business headquartered in Mobile, Alabama. He has deep expertise in midstream energy and substantial knowledge of and experience in natural gas storage operations in the Gulf Coast markets of Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida.<br>Mr. Liollio has been involved in numerous professional organizations and is currently a member of the Engineering Advisory council of Texas A&M University and serves on the Parish Council of Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Public company leadership<br> Corporate governance<br> Energy industry experience<br> Mergers and acquisitions<br> Strategic planning<br>Mr. Liollio's valuable public company experience, substantial experience in the energy industry and knowledge of the Gulf Coast markets that we serve make him well qualified to serve as a director of our Company. |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Liollio has been involved in numerous civic organizations and has also served as a director on the boards of various nonprofits and oil and gas industry organizations, including in leadership positions. | &nbsp;&nbsp;Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Liollio has been involved in numerous civic organizations and has also served as a director on the boards of various nonprofits and oil and gas industry organizations, including in leadership positions. | &nbsp;&nbsp;Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Liollio has been involved in numerous civic organizations and has also served as a director on the boards of various nonprofits and oil and gas industry organizations, including in leadership positions. |

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| &nbsp;&nbsp;![img20590551_8.jpg](img20590551_8.jpg)<br>| Thomas H. Olinde<br>Age: 70<br>Director since 2009<br>Independent<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;Position<br>President of Olinde Hardware & Supply Co., LLC. and<br>Managing Member and Director of B. Olinde and Sons Co., LLC<br>Committee Membership<br>Compensation │ Corporate Governance (Chair) │ Executive |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Olinde has served as President of Olinde Hardware and Supply Co., LLC since 1997 and is also a managing member and director of B. Olinde & Sons Co., LLC. Although Mr. Olinde sold, through an asset sale, a majority interest of the business operated through Olinde Hardware and Supply Co., LLC in January 2019, he continues to manage the enterprise as its President as the company winds down its operations. Through these companies, he has operated and managed a network of retail furniture stores operating in most of the central and south Louisiana markets where the Bank has a presence. In addition to general operations, Mr. Olinde has been largely responsible for strategic planning for the retail store operations and has been regularly involved in business risk management. Previously, Mr. Olinde worked as a credit manager, gaining valuable experience in retail credit extension and collections. Prior to joining our Board, he served as a director of Hancock Bank of Louisiana from 2006 to 2014. In addition to his current committee service, Mr. Olinde has previously served on our Audit Committee and Board Risk Committee.<br>Mr. Olinde has served as a director and in leadership positions of numerous professional and other organizations, including recently being elected to the Board of the Pennington Biomedical Research Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Commercial experience<br> Executive leadership<br> Knowledge of Louisiana markets<br> Management of business operations<br> Strategic planning<br>Mr. Olinde's substantial experience in leading and managing a large regional business, as well as his extensive community ties in markets our Company serves, make him well qualified to serve as a director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Olinde has served on the boards of various nonprofit and civic organizations, including in leadership positions, and previously served on the boards of the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra and the Volunteer Services Council of the Louisiana School for the Visually Impaired, Inc., both nonprofit organizations. He has received the Volunteer Activist Award in the greater Baton Rouge area, one of our markets. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Olinde has served as President of Olinde Hardware and Supply Co., LLC since 1997 and is also a managing member and director of B. Olinde & Sons Co., LLC. Although Mr. Olinde sold, through an asset sale, a majority interest of the business operated through Olinde Hardware and Supply Co., LLC in January 2019, he continues to manage the enterprise as its President as the company winds down its operations. Through these companies, he has operated and managed a network of retail furniture stores operating in most of the central and south Louisiana markets where the Bank has a presence. In addition to general operations, Mr. Olinde has been largely responsible for strategic planning for the retail store operations and has been regularly involved in business risk management. Previously, Mr. Olinde worked as a credit manager, gaining valuable experience in retail credit extension and collections. Prior to joining our Board, he served as a director of Hancock Bank of Louisiana from 2006 to 2014. In addition to his current committee service, Mr. Olinde has previously served on our Audit Committee and Board Risk Committee.<br>Mr. Olinde has served as a director and in leadership positions of numerous professional and other organizations, including recently being elected to the Board of the Pennington Biomedical Research Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Commercial experience<br> Executive leadership<br> Knowledge of Louisiana markets<br> Management of business operations<br> Strategic planning<br>Mr. Olinde's substantial experience in leading and managing a large regional business, as well as his extensive community ties in markets our Company serves, make him well qualified to serve as a director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Olinde has served on the boards of various nonprofit and civic organizations, including in leadership positions, and previously served on the boards of the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra and the Volunteer Services Council of the Louisiana School for the Visually Impaired, Inc., both nonprofit organizations. He has received the Volunteer Activist Award in the greater Baton Rouge area, one of our markets. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Olinde has served as President of Olinde Hardware and Supply Co., LLC since 1997 and is also a managing member and director of B. Olinde & Sons Co., LLC. Although Mr. Olinde sold, through an asset sale, a majority interest of the business operated through Olinde Hardware and Supply Co., LLC in January 2019, he continues to manage the enterprise as its President as the company winds down its operations. Through these companies, he has operated and managed a network of retail furniture stores operating in most of the central and south Louisiana markets where the Bank has a presence. In addition to general operations, Mr. Olinde has been largely responsible for strategic planning for the retail store operations and has been regularly involved in business risk management. Previously, Mr. Olinde worked as a credit manager, gaining valuable experience in retail credit extension and collections. Prior to joining our Board, he served as a director of Hancock Bank of Louisiana from 2006 to 2014. In addition to his current committee service, Mr. Olinde has previously served on our Audit Committee and Board Risk Committee.<br>Mr. Olinde has served as a director and in leadership positions of numerous professional and other organizations, including recently being elected to the Board of the Pennington Biomedical Research Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Commercial experience<br> Executive leadership<br> Knowledge of Louisiana markets<br> Management of business operations<br> Strategic planning<br>Mr. Olinde's substantial experience in leading and managing a large regional business, as well as his extensive community ties in markets our Company serves, make him well qualified to serve as a director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Olinde has served on the boards of various nonprofit and civic organizations, including in leadership positions, and previously served on the boards of the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra and the Volunteer Services Council of the Louisiana School for the Visually Impaired, Inc., both nonprofit organizations. He has received the Volunteer Activist Award in the greater Baton Rouge area, one of our markets. |

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| &nbsp;&nbsp;![img20590551_9.jpg](img20590551_9.jpg)<br>| Joan C. Teofilo<br>Age: 62<br>Director since 2016<br>Independent<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;Position<br>President & CEO of The Energy Authority<br>Committee Membership<br>Board Risk (Vice Chair) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Ms. Teofilo has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of The Energy Authority (TEA), the nation's largest nonprofit energy trading company, since 2010, is a member of its Risk Management Committee, and is actively involved in strategic planning for TEA. She was a member of TEA's founding launch team in 1997 and served as the Director of Risk Management and Financial Trading and the Chief Risk Officer before assuming her current role. TEA provides strategic energy solutions to community-owned utilities across the U.S. through access to advanced resources and technology systems. From its headquarters in Jacksonville, Florida, and West Coast office in Bellevue, Washington, TEA serves over 80 public power utilities and represents over 30,000 megawatts of power generation. Prior to joining TEA, Ms. Teofilo worked as a project engineer in construction management at Santee Cooper, the largest public power utility in South Carolina, and as a mechanical engineer at the American Samoa Power Authority. She has been invited to present and speak at industry events across the country. Ms. Teofilo has been designated by the Board as a risk management expert. <br>Expertise Highlights<br> Executive leadership<br> Wholesale electric utility and natural gas experience<br> Nationwide business experience<br> Risk management and environmental risk assessment<br> Strategic planning<br>Ms. Teofilo's business leadership, substantial experience in managing a large national trading organization, extensive knowledge of the southeastern market, and regulatory, organizational, risk and strategic expertise make her well qualified to serve as a director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Ms. Teofilo has been involved in numerous community, civic and business organizations, including in Jacksonville, Florida, one of our markets. She has also been involved in various industry organizations and currently serves on the board of the Association of Women in Energy, a nonprofit organization. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Ms. Teofilo has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of The Energy Authority (TEA), the nation's largest nonprofit energy trading company, since 2010, is a member of its Risk Management Committee, and is actively involved in strategic planning for TEA. She was a member of TEA's founding launch team in 1997 and served as the Director of Risk Management and Financial Trading and the Chief Risk Officer before assuming her current role. TEA provides strategic energy solutions to community-owned utilities across the U.S. through access to advanced resources and technology systems. From its headquarters in Jacksonville, Florida, and West Coast office in Bellevue, Washington, TEA serves over 80 public power utilities and represents over 30,000 megawatts of power generation. Prior to joining TEA, Ms. Teofilo worked as a project engineer in construction management at Santee Cooper, the largest public power utility in South Carolina, and as a mechanical engineer at the American Samoa Power Authority. She has been invited to present and speak at industry events across the country. Ms. Teofilo has been designated by the Board as a risk management expert. <br>Expertise Highlights<br> Executive leadership<br> Wholesale electric utility and natural gas experience<br> Nationwide business experience<br> Risk management and environmental risk assessment<br> Strategic planning<br>Ms. Teofilo's business leadership, substantial experience in managing a large national trading organization, extensive knowledge of the southeastern market, and regulatory, organizational, risk and strategic expertise make her well qualified to serve as a director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Ms. Teofilo has been involved in numerous community, civic and business organizations, including in Jacksonville, Florida, one of our markets. She has also been involved in various industry organizations and currently serves on the board of the Association of Women in Energy, a nonprofit organization. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Ms. Teofilo has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of The Energy Authority (TEA), the nation's largest nonprofit energy trading company, since 2010, is a member of its Risk Management Committee, and is actively involved in strategic planning for TEA. She was a member of TEA's founding launch team in 1997 and served as the Director of Risk Management and Financial Trading and the Chief Risk Officer before assuming her current role. TEA provides strategic energy solutions to community-owned utilities across the U.S. through access to advanced resources and technology systems. From its headquarters in Jacksonville, Florida, and West Coast office in Bellevue, Washington, TEA serves over 80 public power utilities and represents over 30,000 megawatts of power generation. Prior to joining TEA, Ms. Teofilo worked as a project engineer in construction management at Santee Cooper, the largest public power utility in South Carolina, and as a mechanical engineer at the American Samoa Power Authority. She has been invited to present and speak at industry events across the country. Ms. Teofilo has been designated by the Board as a risk management expert. <br>Expertise Highlights<br> Executive leadership<br> Wholesale electric utility and natural gas experience<br> Nationwide business experience<br> Risk management and environmental risk assessment<br> Strategic planning<br>Ms. Teofilo's business leadership, substantial experience in managing a large national trading organization, extensive knowledge of the southeastern market, and regulatory, organizational, risk and strategic expertise make her well qualified to serve as a director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Ms. Teofilo has been involved in numerous community, civic and business organizations, including in Jacksonville, Florida, one of our markets. She has also been involved in various industry organizations and currently serves on the board of the Association of Women in Energy, a nonprofit organization. |

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| &nbsp;&nbsp;![img20590551_10.jpg](img20590551_10.jpg)<br>| C. Richard Wilkins<br>Age: 62<br>Director since 2016<br>Independent<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;Position<br>Sole Member C. Richard Wilkins, Attorney at Law, PLLC<br>Committee Membership<br>Board Risk  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Wilkins began practicing law in 1990 with the law firm of Vickers, Riis, Murray and Curran, L.L.C. (Vickers Riis) becoming a Partner in 1993. He joined the Mobile, Alabama, office of the Maynard, Cooper & Gale law firm through its acquisition of the Vickers Riis firm in 2015. In 2020, Mr. Wilkins established his current firm. Mr. Wilkins practices primarily in the areas of commercial litigation, commercial transactions, banking, admiralty and maritime law, real estate and wills and estates. He advises clients of legal risks and risk mitigation strategies. Over the course of his professional career, Mr. Wilkins has represented a wide array of entities in varying sectors, including telecommunication service providers, land-based and marine fuel distribution and transportation companies, commercial vessel operators and offshore energy exploration support service providers. Prior to joining Vickers Riis, he served as a law clerk for the Honorable William Brevard Hand, Chief Judge of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Alabama from 1988 to 1990. Mr. Wilkins has served on the Market Advisory Board of the Bank since 2014 and, prior to joining our Board, served as a director of Hancock Bank from 2011 to 2014. He also served as Director and Chairman of Hancock Bank of Alabama from 2007 to 2011.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Commercial experience<br> Real estate development<br> Knowledge of Alabama, Florida and Mississippi markets<br> Legal experience<br> Risk management<br>Mr. Wilkins' extensive community ties in markets served by the Company, legal skills, broad business experience, and knowledge of our Company and Bank operations through his extensive board and committee service make him well qualified to serve as a director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Wilkins has been involved in numerous civic organizations and has served on the boards of various nonprofits, including in leadership positions. He currently serves on the board of Goodwill Industries of the Gulf Coast, Inc., a nonprofit organization. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Wilkins began practicing law in 1990 with the law firm of Vickers, Riis, Murray and Curran, L.L.C. (Vickers Riis) becoming a Partner in 1993. He joined the Mobile, Alabama, office of the Maynard, Cooper & Gale law firm through its acquisition of the Vickers Riis firm in 2015. In 2020, Mr. Wilkins established his current firm. Mr. Wilkins practices primarily in the areas of commercial litigation, commercial transactions, banking, admiralty and maritime law, real estate and wills and estates. He advises clients of legal risks and risk mitigation strategies. Over the course of his professional career, Mr. Wilkins has represented a wide array of entities in varying sectors, including telecommunication service providers, land-based and marine fuel distribution and transportation companies, commercial vessel operators and offshore energy exploration support service providers. Prior to joining Vickers Riis, he served as a law clerk for the Honorable William Brevard Hand, Chief Judge of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Alabama from 1988 to 1990. Mr. Wilkins has served on the Market Advisory Board of the Bank since 2014 and, prior to joining our Board, served as a director of Hancock Bank from 2011 to 2014. He also served as Director and Chairman of Hancock Bank of Alabama from 2007 to 2011.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Commercial experience<br> Real estate development<br> Knowledge of Alabama, Florida and Mississippi markets<br> Legal experience<br> Risk management<br>Mr. Wilkins' extensive community ties in markets served by the Company, legal skills, broad business experience, and knowledge of our Company and Bank operations through his extensive board and committee service make him well qualified to serve as a director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Wilkins has been involved in numerous civic organizations and has served on the boards of various nonprofits, including in leadership positions. He currently serves on the board of Goodwill Industries of the Gulf Coast, Inc., a nonprofit organization. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Wilkins began practicing law in 1990 with the law firm of Vickers, Riis, Murray and Curran, L.L.C. (Vickers Riis) becoming a Partner in 1993. He joined the Mobile, Alabama, office of the Maynard, Cooper & Gale law firm through its acquisition of the Vickers Riis firm in 2015. In 2020, Mr. Wilkins established his current firm. Mr. Wilkins practices primarily in the areas of commercial litigation, commercial transactions, banking, admiralty and maritime law, real estate and wills and estates. He advises clients of legal risks and risk mitigation strategies. Over the course of his professional career, Mr. Wilkins has represented a wide array of entities in varying sectors, including telecommunication service providers, land-based and marine fuel distribution and transportation companies, commercial vessel operators and offshore energy exploration support service providers. Prior to joining Vickers Riis, he served as a law clerk for the Honorable William Brevard Hand, Chief Judge of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Alabama from 1988 to 1990. Mr. Wilkins has served on the Market Advisory Board of the Bank since 2014 and, prior to joining our Board, served as a director of Hancock Bank from 2011 to 2014. He also served as Director and Chairman of Hancock Bank of Alabama from 2007 to 2011.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Commercial experience<br> Real estate development<br> Knowledge of Alabama, Florida and Mississippi markets<br> Legal experience<br> Risk management<br>Mr. Wilkins' extensive community ties in markets served by the Company, legal skills, broad business experience, and knowledge of our Company and Bank operations through his extensive board and committee service make him well qualified to serve as a director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Wilkins has been involved in numerous civic organizations and has served on the boards of various nonprofits, including in leadership positions. He currently serves on the board of Goodwill Industries of the Gulf Coast, Inc., a nonprofit organization. |

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Incumbent Directors with Terms Expiring in 2027

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| &nbsp;&nbsp;![img20590551_11.jpg](img20590551_11.jpg)<br>| John M. Hairston<br>Age: 62<br>Director since 2006<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;Position<br>President and CEO of Hancock Whitney Corporation and<br>CEO of Hancock Whitney Bank<br>Committee Membership<br>Executive |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Hairston has served as Chief Executive Officer of the Company and the Bank since 2008, and President of the Company since 2014. Prior to becoming President of the Company, he served as its Chief Operating Officer from 2008 to 2014.<br>Mr. Hairston served on the Board of Directors and was a faculty member of the Graduate School of Banking at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and at the Georgia Banking School in Athens, Georgia. He also currently serves on the Boards of Directors of the Gulf Coast Business Council, New Orleans Business Council, and The National WWII Museum. Mr. Hairston previously served as Chairman of the Mississippi Economic Counsel, and served as chair through the merger of the Mississippi Economic Council, Mississippi Manufacturers Association, and Business & Industry Political Education Committee into the newly formed Mississippi Business Alliance, where he continues to serve as chair.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Bank regulation<br> Corporate governance<br> Mergers and acquisitions<br> Public company leadership<br> Strategic planning<br>Mr. Hairston's significant banking experience makes him an asset to our Board. In addition, the business, leadership, and management skills he has developed as our President and Chief Executive Officer and formerly as Chief Operating Officer give him a unique insight into our Company's operations and challenges and combine to make him an effective director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Hairston has served on the boards of numerous professional and civic organizations and universities, and as a commissioner and former chair for the State of Mississippi Gaming Commission and the State of Mississippi Information Technology Services Commission, including holding various leadership positions. He is a past board member of the Greater New Orleans Foundation and currently serves as Trustee and Secretary of the Executive Committee of the National World War II Museum, as well as Trustee of the World War II Theatre, Inc. and the WWII Pavilions, Inc., nonprofit organizations in New Orleans, Louisiana. Mr. Hairston was previously honored as a Louisiana Appleseed Good Apple, by Louisiana Appleseed, a public interest advocacy group, for his support of civil legal aid programs that assist in the removal of legal barriers to homeownership. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Hairston has served as Chief Executive Officer of the Company and the Bank since 2008, and President of the Company since 2014. Prior to becoming President of the Company, he served as its Chief Operating Officer from 2008 to 2014.<br>Mr. Hairston served on the Board of Directors and was a faculty member of the Graduate School of Banking at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and at the Georgia Banking School in Athens, Georgia. He also currently serves on the Boards of Directors of the Gulf Coast Business Council, New Orleans Business Council, and The National WWII Museum. Mr. Hairston previously served as Chairman of the Mississippi Economic Counsel, and served as chair through the merger of the Mississippi Economic Council, Mississippi Manufacturers Association, and Business & Industry Political Education Committee into the newly formed Mississippi Business Alliance, where he continues to serve as chair.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Bank regulation<br> Corporate governance<br> Mergers and acquisitions<br> Public company leadership<br> Strategic planning<br>Mr. Hairston's significant banking experience makes him an asset to our Board. In addition, the business, leadership, and management skills he has developed as our President and Chief Executive Officer and formerly as Chief Operating Officer give him a unique insight into our Company's operations and challenges and combine to make him an effective director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Hairston has served on the boards of numerous professional and civic organizations and universities, and as a commissioner and former chair for the State of Mississippi Gaming Commission and the State of Mississippi Information Technology Services Commission, including holding various leadership positions. He is a past board member of the Greater New Orleans Foundation and currently serves as Trustee and Secretary of the Executive Committee of the National World War II Museum, as well as Trustee of the World War II Theatre, Inc. and the WWII Pavilions, Inc., nonprofit organizations in New Orleans, Louisiana. Mr. Hairston was previously honored as a Louisiana Appleseed Good Apple, by Louisiana Appleseed, a public interest advocacy group, for his support of civil legal aid programs that assist in the removal of legal barriers to homeownership. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Hairston has served as Chief Executive Officer of the Company and the Bank since 2008, and President of the Company since 2014. Prior to becoming President of the Company, he served as its Chief Operating Officer from 2008 to 2014.<br>Mr. Hairston served on the Board of Directors and was a faculty member of the Graduate School of Banking at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and at the Georgia Banking School in Athens, Georgia. He also currently serves on the Boards of Directors of the Gulf Coast Business Council, New Orleans Business Council, and The National WWII Museum. Mr. Hairston previously served as Chairman of the Mississippi Economic Counsel, and served as chair through the merger of the Mississippi Economic Council, Mississippi Manufacturers Association, and Business & Industry Political Education Committee into the newly formed Mississippi Business Alliance, where he continues to serve as chair.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Bank regulation<br> Corporate governance<br> Mergers and acquisitions<br> Public company leadership<br> Strategic planning<br>Mr. Hairston's significant banking experience makes him an asset to our Board. In addition, the business, leadership, and management skills he has developed as our President and Chief Executive Officer and formerly as Chief Operating Officer give him a unique insight into our Company's operations and challenges and combine to make him an effective director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Hairston has served on the boards of numerous professional and civic organizations and universities, and as a commissioner and former chair for the State of Mississippi Gaming Commission and the State of Mississippi Information Technology Services Commission, including holding various leadership positions. He is a past board member of the Greater New Orleans Foundation and currently serves as Trustee and Secretary of the Executive Committee of the National World War II Museum, as well as Trustee of the World War II Theatre, Inc. and the WWII Pavilions, Inc., nonprofit organizations in New Orleans, Louisiana. Mr. Hairston was previously honored as a Louisiana Appleseed Good Apple, by Louisiana Appleseed, a public interest advocacy group, for his support of civil legal aid programs that assist in the removal of legal barriers to homeownership. |

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| &nbsp;&nbsp;![img20590551_12.jpg](img20590551_12.jpg)<br>| Suzette K. Kent<br>Age: 58<br>Director since 2020<br>Independent<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;Position<br>CEO of Kent Advisory Services, LLC <br>Former Federal Chief Information Officer of the United States<br>Committee Membership<br>Compensation │ Corporate Governance (Vice Chair) │ Executive |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Ms. Kent has served as CEO of Kent Advisory Services since 2020. She served as the Federal Chief Information Officer of the United States from February 2018 until July 2020. During her service, Ms. Kent was responsible for leading technology policy and administration transformation initiatives across the Executive Branch agencies of the federal government. Prior to that, Ms. Kent was a financial services business transformation Principal at Ernst & Young (EY) from November 2015 until February 2018, where she led practice teams across banking and capital markets to deliver transformational change for technology, business process, regulatory compliance, supply chain risk management, and product innovation for clients across the globe. Prior to her position at EY, Ms. Kent was a Managing Director at J.P. Morgan from August 2008 until August 2015, where she served first as Global Project Management Executive –Treasury & Securities Solutions and then as Client Solutions Executive – Commercial Banking. In these roles, Ms. Kent led teams managing projects to deliver enhanced domestic and global solutions for commercial clients for cash management, trade, online solutions, liquidity and commercial card and supporting client sales, solution delivery and operations for treasury, payments and card solutions for J.P. Morgan's commercial bank and business bank. Prior to her time at J.P. Morgan, Ms. Kent was EVP & President of Global Payments Consulting at Carreker Corporation (now part of Fiserv) and a Partner in Accenture's Financial Services Practice. Ms. Kent has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from Louisiana State University.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Banking and financial services experience<br> Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence experience<br> Technology and digital product delivery<br> Management of national and international business operations<br> Mergers and acquisitions<br>Ms. Kent's background as an industry leader in large-scale technology transformation in complex and highly regulated environments adds significant technology expertise to our Board. This, coupled with Ms. Kent's proven leadership skills and substantial experience with financial institutions, including bank operations, payment strategies and risk management, make her an effective director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Ms. Kent has also been active in various professional, community and civic activities, including her appointment to the LSU Foundation Board, her previous service on nonprofit boards, her involvement in National Science Foundation sponsored research projects and her ongoing involvement with a variety of initiatives to develop pathways building technical talent in the emerging workforce. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Ms. Kent has served as CEO of Kent Advisory Services since 2020. She served as the Federal Chief Information Officer of the United States from February 2018 until July 2020. During her service, Ms. Kent was responsible for leading technology policy and administration transformation initiatives across the Executive Branch agencies of the federal government. Prior to that, Ms. Kent was a financial services business transformation Principal at Ernst & Young (EY) from November 2015 until February 2018, where she led practice teams across banking and capital markets to deliver transformational change for technology, business process, regulatory compliance, supply chain risk management, and product innovation for clients across the globe. Prior to her position at EY, Ms. Kent was a Managing Director at J.P. Morgan from August 2008 until August 2015, where she served first as Global Project Management Executive –Treasury & Securities Solutions and then as Client Solutions Executive – Commercial Banking. In these roles, Ms. Kent led teams managing projects to deliver enhanced domestic and global solutions for commercial clients for cash management, trade, online solutions, liquidity and commercial card and supporting client sales, solution delivery and operations for treasury, payments and card solutions for J.P. Morgan's commercial bank and business bank. Prior to her time at J.P. Morgan, Ms. Kent was EVP & President of Global Payments Consulting at Carreker Corporation (now part of Fiserv) and a Partner in Accenture's Financial Services Practice. Ms. Kent has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from Louisiana State University.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Banking and financial services experience<br> Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence experience<br> Technology and digital product delivery<br> Management of national and international business operations<br> Mergers and acquisitions<br>Ms. Kent's background as an industry leader in large-scale technology transformation in complex and highly regulated environments adds significant technology expertise to our Board. This, coupled with Ms. Kent's proven leadership skills and substantial experience with financial institutions, including bank operations, payment strategies and risk management, make her an effective director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Ms. Kent has also been active in various professional, community and civic activities, including her appointment to the LSU Foundation Board, her previous service on nonprofit boards, her involvement in National Science Foundation sponsored research projects and her ongoing involvement with a variety of initiatives to develop pathways building technical talent in the emerging workforce. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Ms. Kent has served as CEO of Kent Advisory Services since 2020. She served as the Federal Chief Information Officer of the United States from February 2018 until July 2020. During her service, Ms. Kent was responsible for leading technology policy and administration transformation initiatives across the Executive Branch agencies of the federal government. Prior to that, Ms. Kent was a financial services business transformation Principal at Ernst & Young (EY) from November 2015 until February 2018, where she led practice teams across banking and capital markets to deliver transformational change for technology, business process, regulatory compliance, supply chain risk management, and product innovation for clients across the globe. Prior to her position at EY, Ms. Kent was a Managing Director at J.P. Morgan from August 2008 until August 2015, where she served first as Global Project Management Executive –Treasury & Securities Solutions and then as Client Solutions Executive – Commercial Banking. In these roles, Ms. Kent led teams managing projects to deliver enhanced domestic and global solutions for commercial clients for cash management, trade, online solutions, liquidity and commercial card and supporting client sales, solution delivery and operations for treasury, payments and card solutions for J.P. Morgan's commercial bank and business bank. Prior to her time at J.P. Morgan, Ms. Kent was EVP & President of Global Payments Consulting at Carreker Corporation (now part of Fiserv) and a Partner in Accenture's Financial Services Practice. Ms. Kent has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from Louisiana State University.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Banking and financial services experience<br> Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence experience<br> Technology and digital product delivery<br> Management of national and international business operations<br> Mergers and acquisitions<br>Ms. Kent's background as an industry leader in large-scale technology transformation in complex and highly regulated environments adds significant technology expertise to our Board. This, coupled with Ms. Kent's proven leadership skills and substantial experience with financial institutions, including bank operations, payment strategies and risk management, make her an effective director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Ms. Kent has also been active in various professional, community and civic activities, including her appointment to the LSU Foundation Board, her previous service on nonprofit boards, her involvement in National Science Foundation sponsored research projects and her ongoing involvement with a variety of initiatives to develop pathways building technical talent in the emerging workforce. |

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| &nbsp;&nbsp;![img20590551_13.jpg](img20590551_13.jpg)<br>| Jerry L. Levens<br>Chairman of the Board<br>Age: 69<br>Director since 2009<br>Independent<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;Position<br>Retired partner of CPA firm of Alexander, Van Loon, Sloan, Levens & Favre, PLLC and retired partner of registered investment advisory firm of AVL Wealthcare, LLC<br>Committee Membership<br>Audit │ Compensation │ Executive (Chair) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Levens has worked in the accounting profession since 1978, providing accounting, audit, assurance and strategic planning services. In 2019 he retired from Alexander, Van Loon, Sloan, Levens & Favre, PLLC, a regional CPA firm based on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, after serving as a partner for 27 years and as the partner in charge of the firm's audit and assurance engagements for 25 years. Mr. Levens was also a manager of a financial planning and investment advisory services firm for 19 years. He has substantial academic and professional credentials, including a Business Administration degree in Accounting from the University of Mississippi, a Mississippi Certified Public Accountant license, and is a Certified Fraud Examiner-Retired and a Chartered Global Management Accountant-Retired. Prior to joining our Board, Mr. Levens served as a director of Hancock Bank from 2008 to 2009. In addition to his current committee service, Mr. Levens has previously served on our Board Risk Committee and Corporate Governance Committee.<br>Mr. Levens has served on the boards of numerous certified public accountancy professional organizations, including in leadership positions, and currently is a member of the Mississippi Society of CPAs, the American Institute of CPAs, the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, and on the University of Mississippi's E.H. Patterson School of Accountancy Professional Advisory Council. He is also a member of the National Association of Corporate Directors, a nonprofit organization, earning the designation as a Board Leadership Fellow.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Accounting and audit expertise; audit committee financial expert<br> Corporate governance<br> Experienced financial services company executive<br> Risk management<br> Strategic planning | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Levens has worked in the accounting profession since 1978, providing accounting, audit, assurance and strategic planning services. In 2019 he retired from Alexander, Van Loon, Sloan, Levens & Favre, PLLC, a regional CPA firm based on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, after serving as a partner for 27 years and as the partner in charge of the firm's audit and assurance engagements for 25 years. Mr. Levens was also a manager of a financial planning and investment advisory services firm for 19 years. He has substantial academic and professional credentials, including a Business Administration degree in Accounting from the University of Mississippi, a Mississippi Certified Public Accountant license, and is a Certified Fraud Examiner-Retired and a Chartered Global Management Accountant-Retired. Prior to joining our Board, Mr. Levens served as a director of Hancock Bank from 2008 to 2009. In addition to his current committee service, Mr. Levens has previously served on our Board Risk Committee and Corporate Governance Committee.<br>Mr. Levens has served on the boards of numerous certified public accountancy professional organizations, including in leadership positions, and currently is a member of the Mississippi Society of CPAs, the American Institute of CPAs, the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, and on the University of Mississippi's E.H. Patterson School of Accountancy Professional Advisory Council. He is also a member of the National Association of Corporate Directors, a nonprofit organization, earning the designation as a Board Leadership Fellow.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Accounting and audit expertise; audit committee financial expert<br> Corporate governance<br> Experienced financial services company executive<br> Risk management<br> Strategic planning | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Levens has worked in the accounting profession since 1978, providing accounting, audit, assurance and strategic planning services. In 2019 he retired from Alexander, Van Loon, Sloan, Levens & Favre, PLLC, a regional CPA firm based on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, after serving as a partner for 27 years and as the partner in charge of the firm's audit and assurance engagements for 25 years. Mr. Levens was also a manager of a financial planning and investment advisory services firm for 19 years. He has substantial academic and professional credentials, including a Business Administration degree in Accounting from the University of Mississippi, a Mississippi Certified Public Accountant license, and is a Certified Fraud Examiner-Retired and a Chartered Global Management Accountant-Retired. Prior to joining our Board, Mr. Levens served as a director of Hancock Bank from 2008 to 2009. In addition to his current committee service, Mr. Levens has previously served on our Board Risk Committee and Corporate Governance Committee.<br>Mr. Levens has served on the boards of numerous certified public accountancy professional organizations, including in leadership positions, and currently is a member of the Mississippi Society of CPAs, the American Institute of CPAs, the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, and on the University of Mississippi's E.H. Patterson School of Accountancy Professional Advisory Council. He is also a member of the National Association of Corporate Directors, a nonprofit organization, earning the designation as a Board Leadership Fellow.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Accounting and audit expertise; audit committee financial expert<br> Corporate governance<br> Experienced financial services company executive<br> Risk management<br> Strategic planning |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br>Mr. Levens' substantial experience in finance, accounting, auditing, risk management and business makes him an effective director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Levens has served on the boards of numerous nonprofit and governmental organizations, including in leadership positions, and currently serves on the advisory board of the Gulf Coast Restoration Fund. He has received numerous awards and commendations for his professional, civic, and business activities. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br>Mr. Levens' substantial experience in finance, accounting, auditing, risk management and business makes him an effective director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Levens has served on the boards of numerous nonprofit and governmental organizations, including in leadership positions, and currently serves on the advisory board of the Gulf Coast Restoration Fund. He has received numerous awards and commendations for his professional, civic, and business activities. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br>Mr. Levens' substantial experience in finance, accounting, auditing, risk management and business makes him an effective director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Levens has served on the boards of numerous nonprofit and governmental organizations, including in leadership positions, and currently serves on the advisory board of the Gulf Coast Restoration Fund. He has received numerous awards and commendations for his professional, civic, and business activities. |

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| &nbsp;&nbsp;![img20590551_14.jpg](img20590551_14.jpg)<br>| Christine L. Pickering<br>Age: 65<br>Director since 2000<br>Independent<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;Position<br>Owner of Christy Pickering, CPA<br>Committee Membership<br>Audit (Chair) │ Corporate Governance │ Executive |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Ms. Pickering has been a licensed Certified Public Accountant for more than 35 years. She has worked in the accounting field since 1983 and has owned Christy Pickering, CPA since 1991, where she has provided auditing and assurance, tax preparation and litigation support services, including investigation of financial crimes. She has also served as a Special Master in legal proceedings, due in part to her work in litigation support and serving as expert witnesses in various litigation matters. Ms. Pickering served as a director of Mississippi Power Company, Gulfport, Mississippi, (a subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO)) from 2007 to 2020 and served as the Chair of its Controls and Compliance Committee from 2009 to 2013, which oversees the finance and risk areas for the company. In addition to her current committee service with us, Ms. Pickering has previously served on our Compensation Committee.<br>Ms. Pickering is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. She is also a published author and has been asked to participate in speaking engagements throughout the Company footprint in that capacity.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Accounting and audit expertise; audit committee financial expert<br> Regulated utility industry experience<br> Business operations management<br> Financial crimes experience<br> Risk management<br>Ms. Pickering's varied wealth of financial and accounting expertise, combined with her experience in the regulated utility industry and risk management, and her extensive knowledge of the Gulf Coast market make her an effective director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Ms. Pickering has served on the boards of numerous nonprofit and governmental organizations, as well as a state college board, including holding leadership positions. She has received numerous awards and recognition for community service and leadership. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Ms. Pickering has been a licensed Certified Public Accountant for more than 35 years. She has worked in the accounting field since 1983 and has owned Christy Pickering, CPA since 1991, where she has provided auditing and assurance, tax preparation and litigation support services, including investigation of financial crimes. She has also served as a Special Master in legal proceedings, due in part to her work in litigation support and serving as expert witnesses in various litigation matters. Ms. Pickering served as a director of Mississippi Power Company, Gulfport, Mississippi, (a subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO)) from 2007 to 2020 and served as the Chair of its Controls and Compliance Committee from 2009 to 2013, which oversees the finance and risk areas for the company. In addition to her current committee service with us, Ms. Pickering has previously served on our Compensation Committee.<br>Ms. Pickering is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. She is also a published author and has been asked to participate in speaking engagements throughout the Company footprint in that capacity.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Accounting and audit expertise; audit committee financial expert<br> Regulated utility industry experience<br> Business operations management<br> Financial crimes experience<br> Risk management<br>Ms. Pickering's varied wealth of financial and accounting expertise, combined with her experience in the regulated utility industry and risk management, and her extensive knowledge of the Gulf Coast market make her an effective director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Ms. Pickering has served on the boards of numerous nonprofit and governmental organizations, as well as a state college board, including holding leadership positions. She has received numerous awards and recognition for community service and leadership. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Ms. Pickering has been a licensed Certified Public Accountant for more than 35 years. She has worked in the accounting field since 1983 and has owned Christy Pickering, CPA since 1991, where she has provided auditing and assurance, tax preparation and litigation support services, including investigation of financial crimes. She has also served as a Special Master in legal proceedings, due in part to her work in litigation support and serving as expert witnesses in various litigation matters. Ms. Pickering served as a director of Mississippi Power Company, Gulfport, Mississippi, (a subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO)) from 2007 to 2020 and served as the Chair of its Controls and Compliance Committee from 2009 to 2013, which oversees the finance and risk areas for the company. In addition to her current committee service with us, Ms. Pickering has previously served on our Compensation Committee.<br>Ms. Pickering is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. She is also a published author and has been asked to participate in speaking engagements throughout the Company footprint in that capacity.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Accounting and audit expertise; audit committee financial expert<br> Regulated utility industry experience<br> Business operations management<br> Financial crimes experience<br> Risk management<br>Ms. Pickering's varied wealth of financial and accounting expertise, combined with her experience in the regulated utility industry and risk management, and her extensive knowledge of the Gulf Coast market make her an effective director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Ms. Pickering has served on the boards of numerous nonprofit and governmental organizations, as well as a state college board, including holding leadership positions. She has received numerous awards and recognition for community service and leadership. |

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Incumbent Directors with Terms Expiring in 2028

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| &nbsp;&nbsp; ![img20590551_15.jpg](img20590551_15.jpg)<br>| Moses H. Feagin Sr.<br>Age: 61<br>Director since 2024<br>Independent<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;Position<br>Executive Vice President, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, Alabama Power<br>Committee Membership<br>Audit │ Board Risk |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Feagin serves as Alabama Power's (a subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO)) executive vice president, treasurer and chief financial officer, where he oversees the Finance, Accounting and Treasury departments, as well as Regulatory Affairs. He brings more than 35 years of experience to the role. Previously, he served as senior vice president, treasurer, chief financial officer and chief diversity officer for Mississippi Power. Mr. Feagin began his Southern Company career at Alabama Power in 1987 as a junior accountant. He moved through positions of increasing responsibility and leadership, and by 1999, he was Alabama Power's Accounting Operations manager. <br>In 2000, Feagin moved to Southern Company Services as Generation Accounting manager, where he led the effort to establish the accounting and budget organization for Southern Power Company. He was elected comptroller of Mississippi Power in 2005 and vice president and comptroller of Alabama Power in 2008. A native of Montgomery, Alabama, he holds a bachelor's degree in accounting from the University of Alabama. Mr. Feagin, a Certified Management Accountant, completed the Executive Finance and Accounting Program at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Mr. Feagin has been designated by the Board as a risk management expert.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Accounting and audit expertise; audit committee financial expert<br> Regulated utility industry experience<br> Executive leadership<br> Knowledge of Alabama, Florida and Mississippi markets<br> Risk management<br>Mr. Feagin's community ties in markets served by the Company, his finance and accounting experience with fluency in Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, risk management experience, and knowledge of our Company and Bank operations make him an effective director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Feagin has served on nonprofit boards local to the broader community Hancock Whitney serves, including the Gulf Coast Community Foundation and United Way. He has also served on the advisory board for the Gulf Coast Restoration Council; is a graduate of Leadership Birmingham and Leadership Gulf Coast; is a member of the University of Alabama Alumni Association; and is a member of the Institute of Management of Accountants and 100 Black Men of America. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Feagin serves as Alabama Power's (a subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO)) executive vice president, treasurer and chief financial officer, where he oversees the Finance, Accounting and Treasury departments, as well as Regulatory Affairs. He brings more than 35 years of experience to the role. Previously, he served as senior vice president, treasurer, chief financial officer and chief diversity officer for Mississippi Power. Mr. Feagin began his Southern Company career at Alabama Power in 1987 as a junior accountant. He moved through positions of increasing responsibility and leadership, and by 1999, he was Alabama Power's Accounting Operations manager. <br>In 2000, Feagin moved to Southern Company Services as Generation Accounting manager, where he led the effort to establish the accounting and budget organization for Southern Power Company. He was elected comptroller of Mississippi Power in 2005 and vice president and comptroller of Alabama Power in 2008. A native of Montgomery, Alabama, he holds a bachelor's degree in accounting from the University of Alabama. Mr. Feagin, a Certified Management Accountant, completed the Executive Finance and Accounting Program at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Mr. Feagin has been designated by the Board as a risk management expert.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Accounting and audit expertise; audit committee financial expert<br> Regulated utility industry experience<br> Executive leadership<br> Knowledge of Alabama, Florida and Mississippi markets<br> Risk management<br>Mr. Feagin's community ties in markets served by the Company, his finance and accounting experience with fluency in Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, risk management experience, and knowledge of our Company and Bank operations make him an effective director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Feagin has served on nonprofit boards local to the broader community Hancock Whitney serves, including the Gulf Coast Community Foundation and United Way. He has also served on the advisory board for the Gulf Coast Restoration Council; is a graduate of Leadership Birmingham and Leadership Gulf Coast; is a member of the University of Alabama Alumni Association; and is a member of the Institute of Management of Accountants and 100 Black Men of America. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Feagin serves as Alabama Power's (a subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO)) executive vice president, treasurer and chief financial officer, where he oversees the Finance, Accounting and Treasury departments, as well as Regulatory Affairs. He brings more than 35 years of experience to the role. Previously, he served as senior vice president, treasurer, chief financial officer and chief diversity officer for Mississippi Power. Mr. Feagin began his Southern Company career at Alabama Power in 1987 as a junior accountant. He moved through positions of increasing responsibility and leadership, and by 1999, he was Alabama Power's Accounting Operations manager. <br>In 2000, Feagin moved to Southern Company Services as Generation Accounting manager, where he led the effort to establish the accounting and budget organization for Southern Power Company. He was elected comptroller of Mississippi Power in 2005 and vice president and comptroller of Alabama Power in 2008. A native of Montgomery, Alabama, he holds a bachelor's degree in accounting from the University of Alabama. Mr. Feagin, a Certified Management Accountant, completed the Executive Finance and Accounting Program at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Mr. Feagin has been designated by the Board as a risk management expert.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Accounting and audit expertise; audit committee financial expert<br> Regulated utility industry experience<br> Executive leadership<br> Knowledge of Alabama, Florida and Mississippi markets<br> Risk management<br>Mr. Feagin's community ties in markets served by the Company, his finance and accounting experience with fluency in Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, risk management experience, and knowledge of our Company and Bank operations make him an effective director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Feagin has served on nonprofit boards local to the broader community Hancock Whitney serves, including the Gulf Coast Community Foundation and United Way. He has also served on the advisory board for the Gulf Coast Restoration Council; is a graduate of Leadership Birmingham and Leadership Gulf Coast; is a member of the University of Alabama Alumni Association; and is a member of the Institute of Management of Accountants and 100 Black Men of America. |

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| &nbsp;&nbsp;![img20590551_16.jpg](img20590551_16.jpg)<br>| Randall W. Hanna<br>Age: 67<br>Director since 2009<br>Independent<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;Position<br>Dean of Florida State University Panama City and Florida State University College of Applied Studies<br>Committee Membership<br>Board Risk │ Executive  |

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| &nbsp;&nbsp;![img20590551_17.jpg](img20590551_17.jpg)<br>| H. Merritt Lane, III<br>Age: 64<br>Director since 2021<br>Independent<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;Position<br>President and Chief Executive Officer of <br>Canal Barge LLC<br>Committee Membership<br>Board Risk │ Compensation (Vice Chair) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Lane has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Canal Barge LLC since 2025. He previously served as the Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Canal Barge Company, Inc., a New Orleans based marine transport, services and liquid storage company, since 1994. He joined Canal Barge Company in 1986 and held several marketing and executive positions prior to his appointment as President in 1994. Mr. Lane currently serves on the board of directors of Pontchartrain Materials Corporation, L.L.C., a privately held construction aggregate supplier, where he has been a director since 2001. He also served as Chairman of the Bureau of Governmental Research. Mr. Lane has previously served on the boards of directors of several additional companies, including International Shipholding Corp., a publicly traded marine transportation company, from 2004 to 2015 and Hibernia Homestead Bancorp., Inc., a publicly traded community bank holding company, from 2008 to 2018. Prior to joining Canal Barge Company, he was an investment banker with PaineWebber Inc. from 1983 to 1986. Mr. Lane holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from the University of Virginia.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Marine transportation experience<br> Extensive knowledge of our Louisiana markets<br> Public company board experience<br> Mergers and acquisitions<br> Strategic planning<br>Mr. Lane's prior board service, including service as a director of a public company and a bank holding company, coupled with his deep knowledge of marine transportation and storage industries and our New Orleans market make him an effective director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Lane has been active in leadership positions with a number of civic, educational and philanthropic organizations, including the National World War II Museum, the Nature Conservancy of Louisiana and the Water Institute of the Gulf, among others. Mr. Lane has received numerous honors for his civic and business leadership. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Lane has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Canal Barge LLC since 2025. He previously served as the Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Canal Barge Company, Inc., a New Orleans based marine transport, services and liquid storage company, since 1994. He joined Canal Barge Company in 1986 and held several marketing and executive positions prior to his appointment as President in 1994. Mr. Lane currently serves on the board of directors of Pontchartrain Materials Corporation, L.L.C., a privately held construction aggregate supplier, where he has been a director since 2001. He also served as Chairman of the Bureau of Governmental Research. Mr. Lane has previously served on the boards of directors of several additional companies, including International Shipholding Corp., a publicly traded marine transportation company, from 2004 to 2015 and Hibernia Homestead Bancorp., Inc., a publicly traded community bank holding company, from 2008 to 2018. Prior to joining Canal Barge Company, he was an investment banker with PaineWebber Inc. from 1983 to 1986. Mr. Lane holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from the University of Virginia.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Marine transportation experience<br> Extensive knowledge of our Louisiana markets<br> Public company board experience<br> Mergers and acquisitions<br> Strategic planning<br>Mr. Lane's prior board service, including service as a director of a public company and a bank holding company, coupled with his deep knowledge of marine transportation and storage industries and our New Orleans market make him an effective director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Lane has been active in leadership positions with a number of civic, educational and philanthropic organizations, including the National World War II Museum, the Nature Conservancy of Louisiana and the Water Institute of the Gulf, among others. Mr. Lane has received numerous honors for his civic and business leadership. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Lane has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Canal Barge LLC since 2025. He previously served as the Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Canal Barge Company, Inc., a New Orleans based marine transport, services and liquid storage company, since 1994. He joined Canal Barge Company in 1986 and held several marketing and executive positions prior to his appointment as President in 1994. Mr. Lane currently serves on the board of directors of Pontchartrain Materials Corporation, L.L.C., a privately held construction aggregate supplier, where he has been a director since 2001. He also served as Chairman of the Bureau of Governmental Research. Mr. Lane has previously served on the boards of directors of several additional companies, including International Shipholding Corp., a publicly traded marine transportation company, from 2004 to 2015 and Hibernia Homestead Bancorp., Inc., a publicly traded community bank holding company, from 2008 to 2018. Prior to joining Canal Barge Company, he was an investment banker with PaineWebber Inc. from 1983 to 1986. Mr. Lane holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from the University of Virginia.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Marine transportation experience<br> Extensive knowledge of our Louisiana markets<br> Public company board experience<br> Mergers and acquisitions<br> Strategic planning<br>Mr. Lane's prior board service, including service as a director of a public company and a bank holding company, coupled with his deep knowledge of marine transportation and storage industries and our New Orleans market make him an effective director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Lane has been active in leadership positions with a number of civic, educational and philanthropic organizations, including the National World War II Museum, the Nature Conservancy of Louisiana and the Water Institute of the Gulf, among others. Mr. Lane has received numerous honors for his civic and business leadership. |

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| &nbsp;&nbsp; ![img20590551_18.jpg](img20590551_18.jpg) | Sonya C. Little<br>Age: 60<br>Director since 2016<br>Independent<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;Position<br>President and Chief Operating Officer of COI Energy, Inc.<br>Committee Membership<br>Audit (Vice Chair)│ Corporate Governance  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Ms. Little has served as President and Chief Operating Officer of COI Energy Inc., a clean technology company, since 2025. In this role, she is responsible for enterprise operations, strategic growth, and compliance. From 2019 to 2024, she served as Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of Strategic Property Partners, a commercial real estate development company, overseeing corporate operations, including financial reporting, accounting, risk management, human resources, information technology, and government affairs. Prior to her private sector experience, Ms. Little served as Chief Financial Officer for the City of Tampa from 2011 to 2019, managing the city's financial strategy, including its annual operating and capital budgets, credit ratings, and debt portfolio. She spent over 14 years in investment banking, serving as a Managing Director with Public Resources Advisory Group and as an investment banker with RBC Capital Markets (formerly William R. Hough & Co.). She held financial positions with the State of Florida Division of Bond Finance, Barnett Bank, and Florida National Bank.<br>Ms. Little currently serves on the Board of Directors of The Mosaic Company (NYSE: MOS). She was a member of the Board of Directors of Turner Construction Company from 2022 to 2025 and continues to engage with the company as an independent advisor. She was appointed by the governor to the State of Florida Partnership for Public Facilities and Infrastructure Act Task Force, where she advised on public-private partnership legislation and served as a subject matter expert for the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board, where she developed municipal bond educational curricula. Ms. Little holds a Bachelor of Science in Business from the University of South Florida.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Executive leadership<br> Finance and accounting; audit committee financial expert<br> Government regulation <br> Investment banking services<br> Risk management<br>Ms. Little's experience in finance, accounting, investment banking, and operations, combined with her background in risk management, construction and development, and regulatory matters, provides the Board with valuable perspective on corporate governance, financial oversight, and strategic decision-making and make her an effective director of our Company. <br>Community Service Highlights<br>Ms. Little has served on the boards of several nonprofit and governmental organizations, including the Tampa General Employees' Retirement Fund, the BayCare Health System Clinical Excellence Committee, ZooTampa at Lowry Park, and the Tampa Museum of Art. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Ms. Little has served as President and Chief Operating Officer of COI Energy Inc., a clean technology company, since 2025. In this role, she is responsible for enterprise operations, strategic growth, and compliance. From 2019 to 2024, she served as Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of Strategic Property Partners, a commercial real estate development company, overseeing corporate operations, including financial reporting, accounting, risk management, human resources, information technology, and government affairs. Prior to her private sector experience, Ms. Little served as Chief Financial Officer for the City of Tampa from 2011 to 2019, managing the city's financial strategy, including its annual operating and capital budgets, credit ratings, and debt portfolio. She spent over 14 years in investment banking, serving as a Managing Director with Public Resources Advisory Group and as an investment banker with RBC Capital Markets (formerly William R. Hough & Co.). She held financial positions with the State of Florida Division of Bond Finance, Barnett Bank, and Florida National Bank.<br>Ms. Little currently serves on the Board of Directors of The Mosaic Company (NYSE: MOS). She was a member of the Board of Directors of Turner Construction Company from 2022 to 2025 and continues to engage with the company as an independent advisor. She was appointed by the governor to the State of Florida Partnership for Public Facilities and Infrastructure Act Task Force, where she advised on public-private partnership legislation and served as a subject matter expert for the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board, where she developed municipal bond educational curricula. Ms. Little holds a Bachelor of Science in Business from the University of South Florida.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Executive leadership<br> Finance and accounting; audit committee financial expert<br> Government regulation <br> Investment banking services<br> Risk management<br>Ms. Little's experience in finance, accounting, investment banking, and operations, combined with her background in risk management, construction and development, and regulatory matters, provides the Board with valuable perspective on corporate governance, financial oversight, and strategic decision-making and make her an effective director of our Company. <br>Community Service Highlights<br>Ms. Little has served on the boards of several nonprofit and governmental organizations, including the Tampa General Employees' Retirement Fund, the BayCare Health System Clinical Excellence Committee, ZooTampa at Lowry Park, and the Tampa Museum of Art. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Ms. Little has served as President and Chief Operating Officer of COI Energy Inc., a clean technology company, since 2025. In this role, she is responsible for enterprise operations, strategic growth, and compliance. From 2019 to 2024, she served as Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of Strategic Property Partners, a commercial real estate development company, overseeing corporate operations, including financial reporting, accounting, risk management, human resources, information technology, and government affairs. Prior to her private sector experience, Ms. Little served as Chief Financial Officer for the City of Tampa from 2011 to 2019, managing the city's financial strategy, including its annual operating and capital budgets, credit ratings, and debt portfolio. She spent over 14 years in investment banking, serving as a Managing Director with Public Resources Advisory Group and as an investment banker with RBC Capital Markets (formerly William R. Hough & Co.). She held financial positions with the State of Florida Division of Bond Finance, Barnett Bank, and Florida National Bank.<br>Ms. Little currently serves on the Board of Directors of The Mosaic Company (NYSE: MOS). She was a member of the Board of Directors of Turner Construction Company from 2022 to 2025 and continues to engage with the company as an independent advisor. She was appointed by the governor to the State of Florida Partnership for Public Facilities and Infrastructure Act Task Force, where she advised on public-private partnership legislation and served as a subject matter expert for the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board, where she developed municipal bond educational curricula. Ms. Little holds a Bachelor of Science in Business from the University of South Florida.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Executive leadership<br> Finance and accounting; audit committee financial expert<br> Government regulation <br> Investment banking services<br> Risk management<br>Ms. Little's experience in finance, accounting, investment banking, and operations, combined with her background in risk management, construction and development, and regulatory matters, provides the Board with valuable perspective on corporate governance, financial oversight, and strategic decision-making and make her an effective director of our Company. <br>Community Service Highlights<br>Ms. Little has served on the boards of several nonprofit and governmental organizations, including the Tampa General Employees' Retirement Fund, the BayCare Health System Clinical Excellence Committee, ZooTampa at Lowry Park, and the Tampa Museum of Art. |

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| &nbsp;&nbsp;![img20590551_19.jpg](img20590551_19.jpg)<br>| Sonia A. Pérez<br>Age: 69<br>Director since 2021<br>Independent<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;Position<br>Former President, Southeast States, AT&T Inc.<br>Committee Membership<br>Board Risk  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Ms. Pérez served as the President, Southeast States, for AT&T Inc. from 2018 to 2022. In this capacity, Ms. Pérez was responsible for the development of the company's overall strategic plan in the Southeast region, which included responsibility for leading a workforce of more than 9,600 employees, overseeing operations including technology deployment and infrastructure investment and directing teams responsible for implementing public policy, legislative, regulatory and philanthropic initiatives. Ms. Pérez joined AT&T in 2005 and previously served as President, AT&T Louisiana from 2010 to 2018 and Vice President, AT&T Texas, from 2005 to 2010. Prior to 2005, Ms. Pérez was employed at SBC (formerly Southwestern Bell) from 1979 until SBC's 2005 acquisition of AT&T, at which time SBC adopted the AT&T name. Ms. Pérez served on the board of directors of Sanderson Farms, Inc., a publicly traded Mississippi-based poultry processing company from 2019 to its sale in 2022. Ms. Pérez holds a Bachelor of Journalism degree from the University of Texas. <br>During her career, Ms. Pérez has served in various organizational leadership roles and has developed a well-respected reputation for leadership. Ms. Pérez has also been selected by elected officials to serve in a number of special project advisory roles, including the appointment as a member of the Resilient Louisiana Commission, appointment as chair of the Louisiana Economic Development Transition Team for Governor John Bel Edwards and as an appointee of Governor Bobby Jindal to the Louisiana Workforce Commission. Ms. Pérez has been designated by the Board as a risk management expert. <br>Expertise Highlights<br> Nationwide business experience<br> Public company board experience<br> Executive leadership<br> Technology infrastructure<br> Risk Management<br>Ms. Pérez' experience as a director of a public company, commitment to public service, and leadership in and professional experience working with communities in our Texas and Louisiana markets make her an effective director of our Company. <br>Community Service Highlights<br>Ms. Pérez is a current and former director of a number of industry and philanthropic organizations, including current service for the National World War II Museum and the University of Texas Foundation. She has received numerous awards and recognition for community service and leadership. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Ms. Pérez served as the President, Southeast States, for AT&T Inc. from 2018 to 2022. In this capacity, Ms. Pérez was responsible for the development of the company's overall strategic plan in the Southeast region, which included responsibility for leading a workforce of more than 9,600 employees, overseeing operations including technology deployment and infrastructure investment and directing teams responsible for implementing public policy, legislative, regulatory and philanthropic initiatives. Ms. Pérez joined AT&T in 2005 and previously served as President, AT&T Louisiana from 2010 to 2018 and Vice President, AT&T Texas, from 2005 to 2010. Prior to 2005, Ms. Pérez was employed at SBC (formerly Southwestern Bell) from 1979 until SBC's 2005 acquisition of AT&T, at which time SBC adopted the AT&T name. Ms. Pérez served on the board of directors of Sanderson Farms, Inc., a publicly traded Mississippi-based poultry processing company from 2019 to its sale in 2022. Ms. Pérez holds a Bachelor of Journalism degree from the University of Texas. <br>During her career, Ms. Pérez has served in various organizational leadership roles and has developed a well-respected reputation for leadership. Ms. Pérez has also been selected by elected officials to serve in a number of special project advisory roles, including the appointment as a member of the Resilient Louisiana Commission, appointment as chair of the Louisiana Economic Development Transition Team for Governor John Bel Edwards and as an appointee of Governor Bobby Jindal to the Louisiana Workforce Commission. Ms. Pérez has been designated by the Board as a risk management expert. <br>Expertise Highlights<br> Nationwide business experience<br> Public company board experience<br> Executive leadership<br> Technology infrastructure<br> Risk Management<br>Ms. Pérez' experience as a director of a public company, commitment to public service, and leadership in and professional experience working with communities in our Texas and Louisiana markets make her an effective director of our Company. <br>Community Service Highlights<br>Ms. Pérez is a current and former director of a number of industry and philanthropic organizations, including current service for the National World War II Museum and the University of Texas Foundation. She has received numerous awards and recognition for community service and leadership. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Ms. Pérez served as the President, Southeast States, for AT&T Inc. from 2018 to 2022. In this capacity, Ms. Pérez was responsible for the development of the company's overall strategic plan in the Southeast region, which included responsibility for leading a workforce of more than 9,600 employees, overseeing operations including technology deployment and infrastructure investment and directing teams responsible for implementing public policy, legislative, regulatory and philanthropic initiatives. Ms. Pérez joined AT&T in 2005 and previously served as President, AT&T Louisiana from 2010 to 2018 and Vice President, AT&T Texas, from 2005 to 2010. Prior to 2005, Ms. Pérez was employed at SBC (formerly Southwestern Bell) from 1979 until SBC's 2005 acquisition of AT&T, at which time SBC adopted the AT&T name. Ms. Pérez served on the board of directors of Sanderson Farms, Inc., a publicly traded Mississippi-based poultry processing company from 2019 to its sale in 2022. Ms. Pérez holds a Bachelor of Journalism degree from the University of Texas. <br>During her career, Ms. Pérez has served in various organizational leadership roles and has developed a well-respected reputation for leadership. Ms. Pérez has also been selected by elected officials to serve in a number of special project advisory roles, including the appointment as a member of the Resilient Louisiana Commission, appointment as chair of the Louisiana Economic Development Transition Team for Governor John Bel Edwards and as an appointee of Governor Bobby Jindal to the Louisiana Workforce Commission. Ms. Pérez has been designated by the Board as a risk management expert. <br>Expertise Highlights<br> Nationwide business experience<br> Public company board experience<br> Executive leadership<br> Technology infrastructure<br> Risk Management<br>Ms. Pérez' experience as a director of a public company, commitment to public service, and leadership in and professional experience working with communities in our Texas and Louisiana markets make her an effective director of our Company. <br>Community Service Highlights<br>Ms. Pérez is a current and former director of a number of industry and philanthropic organizations, including current service for the National World War II Museum and the University of Texas Foundation. She has received numerous awards and recognition for community service and leadership. |

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| ![img20590551_20.jpg](img20590551_20.jpg) | Albert J. Williams<br>Age: 57<br>Director since 2025<br>Independent<br>| &nbsp;&nbsp;Position<br>Managing Member, AJ Williams LLC<br>Committee Membership<br>Board Risk  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Williams previously served with Chevron Corporation for more than 30 years in various capacities, most recently as corporate officer and Vice President of Corporate Affairs from 2021 through his retirement in 2025. In this role he oversaw government affairs, public affairs, reputation, and social investment performance. Previously, Mr. Williams served as Managing Director of Chevron Australia with responsibility for Chevron's interests and activities in Australia and New Zealand from 2019 to 2021, a position in which he had oversight of Chevron's financial and operational investment and performance, along with government, partner, and community relations. Mr. Williams also served in several other key U.S. and international positions, including as President, Chevron Pipeline Company; Vice President, Chevron Indonesia Heavy Oil Operations; Asset Manager, Chevron Thailand and General Manager Finance, Chevron Africa and Latin America Exploration and Production Company. After joining Chevron in 1991, Mr. Williams served as an engineer in New Orleans, Louisiana, later as a Finance Manager for Chevron's Pascagoula, Mississippi refinery, and also held various roles in the Houston, Texas area during his tenure. Mr. Williams holds a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from the Mississippi State University and a master's degree in business administration from Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Management of international business operations<br> Energy industry experience<br> Environmental risk assessment<br> Executive leadership and executive compensation<br> Financial and accounting expertise<br>Mr. Williams is a seasoned executive leader with deep global and national experience in finance, operations, strategy and corporate affairs. While his career experience has been notably international, he also brings a depth of knowledge of the Gulf Coast market. His extensive leadership experience both domestically and internationally make him an effective director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Williams serves on the Mississippi State University Foundation Board, the Board of Advisors for University of Southern California Viterbi School of Engineering, and the Board Executive Committee of the Atlantic Council.  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Williams previously served with Chevron Corporation for more than 30 years in various capacities, most recently as corporate officer and Vice President of Corporate Affairs from 2021 through his retirement in 2025. In this role he oversaw government affairs, public affairs, reputation, and social investment performance. Previously, Mr. Williams served as Managing Director of Chevron Australia with responsibility for Chevron's interests and activities in Australia and New Zealand from 2019 to 2021, a position in which he had oversight of Chevron's financial and operational investment and performance, along with government, partner, and community relations. Mr. Williams also served in several other key U.S. and international positions, including as President, Chevron Pipeline Company; Vice President, Chevron Indonesia Heavy Oil Operations; Asset Manager, Chevron Thailand and General Manager Finance, Chevron Africa and Latin America Exploration and Production Company. After joining Chevron in 1991, Mr. Williams served as an engineer in New Orleans, Louisiana, later as a Finance Manager for Chevron's Pascagoula, Mississippi refinery, and also held various roles in the Houston, Texas area during his tenure. Mr. Williams holds a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from the Mississippi State University and a master's degree in business administration from Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Management of international business operations<br> Energy industry experience<br> Environmental risk assessment<br> Executive leadership and executive compensation<br> Financial and accounting expertise<br>Mr. Williams is a seasoned executive leader with deep global and national experience in finance, operations, strategy and corporate affairs. While his career experience has been notably international, he also brings a depth of knowledge of the Gulf Coast market. His extensive leadership experience both domestically and internationally make him an effective director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Williams serves on the Mississippi State University Foundation Board, the Board of Advisors for University of Southern California Viterbi School of Engineering, and the Board Executive Committee of the Atlantic Council.  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Background<br>Mr. Williams previously served with Chevron Corporation for more than 30 years in various capacities, most recently as corporate officer and Vice President of Corporate Affairs from 2021 through his retirement in 2025. In this role he oversaw government affairs, public affairs, reputation, and social investment performance. Previously, Mr. Williams served as Managing Director of Chevron Australia with responsibility for Chevron's interests and activities in Australia and New Zealand from 2019 to 2021, a position in which he had oversight of Chevron's financial and operational investment and performance, along with government, partner, and community relations. Mr. Williams also served in several other key U.S. and international positions, including as President, Chevron Pipeline Company; Vice President, Chevron Indonesia Heavy Oil Operations; Asset Manager, Chevron Thailand and General Manager Finance, Chevron Africa and Latin America Exploration and Production Company. After joining Chevron in 1991, Mr. Williams served as an engineer in New Orleans, Louisiana, later as a Finance Manager for Chevron's Pascagoula, Mississippi refinery, and also held various roles in the Houston, Texas area during his tenure. Mr. Williams holds a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from the Mississippi State University and a master's degree in business administration from Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana.<br>Expertise Highlights<br> Management of international business operations<br> Energy industry experience<br> Environmental risk assessment<br> Executive leadership and executive compensation<br> Financial and accounting expertise<br>Mr. Williams is a seasoned executive leader with deep global and national experience in finance, operations, strategy and corporate affairs. While his career experience has been notably international, he also brings a depth of knowledge of the Gulf Coast market. His extensive leadership experience both domestically and internationally make him an effective director of our Company.<br>Community Service Highlights<br>Mr. Williams serves on the Mississippi State University Foundation Board, the Board of Advisors for University of Southern California Viterbi School of Engineering, and the Board Executive Committee of the Atlantic Council.  |

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**SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT**<br>

The following table shows the number of shares of our common stock that were beneficially owned as of December 31, 2025 by persons known by us to beneficially own more than 5% of the outstanding shares of our common stock. Where indicated, the information in the table is based on our review of filings with the SEC, and is determined under Rule 13d-1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act). Each person listed below has sole voting and investment power with respect to the shares beneficially owned unless otherwise stated.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name and Address<br>of Beneficial Owner** | **Amount and Nature of Beneficial <br>Ownership of Common Stock** | **Percent of<br>Class** <sup>(1)</sup> |
| BlackRock, Inc.<br>55 East 52<sup>nd</sup> Street<br>New York, NY 10055 | 10375660<br><sup>(2)</sup> | 12.7% |
| The Vanguard Group<br>100 Vanguard Blvd.<br>Malvern, PA 19355 | 9699143<br><sup>(3)</sup> | 11.9% |
| FMR, LLC<br>245 Summer Street<br>Boston, MA 02210 | 7206183<br><sup>(4)</sup> | 8.8% |
| Dimensional Fund Advisors LP<br>6300 Bee Cave Road, Building One<br>Austin, TX 68746 | 4769299<br><sup>(5)</sup> | 5.8% |
| State Street Corp.<br>1 Congress Street, Suite 1<br>Boston, MA 02114 | 4521593<br><sup>(6)</sup> | 5.5% |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)Based on 81,539,244 shares of our common stock outstanding as of March 2, 2026.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2)Based on information contained in a Form 13F-HR filed with the SEC on February 12, 2026, by BlackRock, Inc. (BlackRock) as of December 31, 2025. BlackRock, and certain of its subsidiaries, report that it has sole voting power with respect to 10,087,487 shares and sole dispositive power with respect to 10,375,660 shares.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3)Based on information contained in a Schedule 13F-HR filed with the SEC on January 29, 2026, by Vanguard Group Inc. (Vanguard) as of December 31, 2025. Vanguard, and certain of its subsidiaries, report shared voting power with respect to 574,915 shares, sole dispositive power with respect to 9,019,165 shares and shared dispositive power with respect to 679,978 shares.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4)Based on information contained in the Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC on February 5, 2026, by FMR, LLC as of December 31, 2025. FMR, and certain of its subsidiaries, report sole voting power with respect to 7,193,810 shares and sole dispositive power with respect to 7,206,183 shares.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5)Based on information contained in a Form 13F-HR filed with the SEC on February 12, 2026, by Dimensional Fund Advisors LP (Dimensional) as of December 31, 2025. Dimensional, and certain of its subsidiaries, report that it has sole voting power with respect to 4,463,738 shares, sole dispositive power with respect to 4,562,626 shares, shared voting power with respect to 204,075 shares, and shared dispositive power with respect to 206,673 shares.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6)Based on information contained in the 13F-HR filed with the SEC on February 13, 2026, by State Street Corp. as of December 31, 2025. State Street, and certain of its subsidiaries, report having sole voting power with respect to 586,007 shares, shared voting power with respect to 1,000 shares, and shared dispositive power with respect to 4,521,593 shares.

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The following table shows the number of shares of our common stock beneficially owned as of March 2, 2026 by (i) our directors, (ii) our named executive officers, as defined below in the "Compensation Discussion and Analysis," and (iii) all of our directors and executive officers as a group. The information in the table is based on our review of filings with the SEC and information provided by the individuals. Each person listed below has sole voting and investment power with respect to the shares beneficially owned unless otherwise stated.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Directors** | **Amount and Nature of Beneficial Ownership of Common Stock** <sup>(1)</sup> |
| Frank E. Bertucci | 26827<br><sup>(3)</sup><br> \* |
| Moses H. Feagin | 1736<br><sup>(4)</sup><br> \* |
| John M. Hairston | 211556<br><sup>(5)</sup><br> \* |
| Randall W. Hanna | 28666<br><sup>(6)</sup><br> \* |
| Suzette K. Kent | 8368<br><sup>(7)</sup><br> \* |
| H. Merritt Lane | 11163<br><sup>(8)</sup><br> \* |
| Jerry L. Levens | 42665<br><sup>(9)</sup><br> \* |
| Constantine S. Liollio | 30235<br><sup>(10)</sup><br> \* |
| Sonya C. Little | 18410<br><sup>(11)</sup><br> \* |
| Thomas H. Olinde | 44554<br><sup>(12)</sup><br> \* |
| Sonia A. Pérez | 12063<br><sup>(13)</sup><br> \* |
| Christine L. Pickering | 24475<br><sup>(14)</sup><br> \* |
| Joan C. Teofilo | 18941<br><sup>(15)</sup><br> \* |
| C. Richard Wilkins | 19472<br><sup>(16)</sup><br> \* |
| Albert J. Williams | 1747<br><sup>(17)</sup><br> \* |
| Named Executive Officers |  |
| Michael M. Achary | 56312<br><sup>(18)</sup><br> \* |
| D. Shane Loper | 109605<br><sup>(19)</sup><br> \* |
| Michael Otero | 32327<br><sup>(20)</sup><br> \* |
| Christopher S. Ziluca | 36357<br><sup>(21)</sup><br> \* |
| Directors and executive officers as a group<sup>(22)</sup> (22 persons) | 750822<br> \* |

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\* Less than 1% of the outstanding common stock.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)Includes shares owned directly and indirectly. Except as otherwise noted and subject to applicable community property laws, each shareholder has sole investment and voting power with respect to such shares.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2)Based on 81,546,524 shares of our common stock outstanding and entitled to vote as of March 2, 2026.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3)Includes 1,490 shares held for the account of Mr. Bertucci's spouse in the Company's Dividend Reinvestment Plan and 14,808 shares held for the account of Mr. Bertucci in the Company's Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation (NQDC) Plan.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4)Includes 1,637 shares held for the account of Mr. Feagin in the Company's NQDC Plan.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5)Includes 141,078 shares held for the account of Mr. Hairston in the Company's NQDC Plan and 4,925 restricted stock units (RSUs) that would convert to shares upon Mr. Hairston's retirement (based on age and time of service).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6)Includes 16,607 shares held for the account of Mr. Hanna in the Company's NQDC Plan and 6,820 shares held jointly with his spouse.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7)Includes 1,601 RSAs.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(8)Includes 5,871 shares held for the account of Mr. Lane in the Company's NQDC Plan.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(9)Includes 24,570 shares held for the account of Mr. Levens in the Company's NQDC Plan and also includes 18,095 shares held jointly with his spouse in a family limited partnership as to which he disclaims beneficial ownership.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(10)Includes 30,236 shares held for the account of Mr. Liollio in the Company's NQDC Plan.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(11)Includes 12,995 shares held for the account of Ms. Little in the Company's NQDC Plan.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(12)Includes 28,174 shares held for the account of Mr. Olinde in the Company's NQDC Plan.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(13)Includes 9,224 shares held for the account of Ms. Pérez in the Company's NQDC Plan.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(14)Includes 341 shares held by Ms. Pickering's spouse. Also includes 1,601 RSAs and 12,725 shares held for the account of Ms. Pickering in the Company's NQDC Plan.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(15)Includes 17,401 shares held for the account of Ms. Teofilo in the Company's NQDC Plan.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(16)Includes 6,855 shares held for the account of Mr. Wilkins in the Company's NQDC Plan. Also includes 1,177 shares held by his spouse and 400 shares held in trusts for his two children with his spouse as trustee as to which he disclaims beneficial ownership.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(17)Includes 1,601 RSAs.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(18)Includes 11,351 shares held for the account of Mr. Achary in the Company's NQDC Plan and 1,613 RSUs that would convert to shares upon Mr. Achary's retirement (based on age and time of service).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(19)Includes 237 shares held by Mr. Loper's spouse in the Company's Dividend Reinvestment Plan and 2,411 shares held for the account of Mr. Loper in the Company's NQDC Plan. Also includes 2,227 RSUs that would convert to shares upon Mr. Loper's retirement (based on age and time of service).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(20)Includes 1,696 shares held for the account of Mr. Otero in the Company's NQDC Plan. Also includes 786 RSUs that would convert to shares upon Mr. Otero's retirement (based on age and time of service).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(21)Includes 15,458 shares held for the account of Mr. Ziluca in the Company's NQDC Plan.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(22)Includes 353,097 shares held in the Company's NQDC Plan and 4,803 RSAs. Also includes 9,551 RSUs that would convert to shares upon members of the group's retirement (based on age and time of service).

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| |
|:---|
| **DELINQUENT SECTION 16(a) REPORTS** |
| **O** |

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Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act requires our executive officers and directors to file initial reports of ownership of the Company's common stock, as well as reports of changes in ownership with the SEC. Based solely on a review of Forms 3, 4 and 5, any amendments to those Forms, and written representations from executive officers and directors to the Company, all required filings by such persons were timely made during 2025, except (i) Albert Williams, a director of the Company, filed a late Form 4 on July 8, 2025, due to an administrative oversight, reporting a transaction that occurred on June 24, 2025, and (ii) C. Richard Wilkins, a director of the Company, inadvertently failed to file a Form 4 to report a transfer of 200 shares from a family trust to a family member that occurred when the beneficiary's interest in the trust automatically terminated on January 26, 2025.

**BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE**<br>

**Board of Directors**

The Board currently consists of 15 directors. The Board has the power to expand or reduce its size at any time, subject to the requirement in our Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws that the Company have a minimum of nine directors. In February 2026, the Board voted to maintain its size at 15 directors, effective as of the annual meeting.

The Board currently has one employee director, John M. Hairston. The Board has determined that all non-employee directors – Frank E. Bertucci, Moses H. Feagin Sr., Randall W. Hanna, Suzette K. Kent, H. Merritt Lane, III, Jerry L. Levens, Constantine S. Liollio, Sonya C. Little, Thomas H. Olinde, Sonia A. Pérez, Christine L. Pickering, Joan C. Teofilo, C. Richard Wilkins and Albert J. Williams – are independent under the applicable Nasdaq rules, on which our common stock trades.

Under our Corporate Governance Guidelines, our independent directors are required to meet in executive session at least two times each year. During 2025, the Company's independent directors continued their longstanding practice of convening executive sessions after regular board meetings as they deemed necessary, convening seven such sessions during 2025. Neither the Chief Executive Officer nor any other Company associates were present during these executive sessions.

The Board held eight meetings in 2025. During 2025, each of the incumbent directors attended at least 75% of the aggregate number of meetings of the Board and the committees of the Board on which he or she served. The Board has adopted Corporate Governance Guidelines that encourage our directors to attend each annual meeting of shareholders. All of our directors attended the Company's 2025 annual meeting, which was held virtually.

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**Board and Management Leadership Structure**

In connection with its election of the Chairman of the Board, the Board solicits input and nominations from its members and elects one of its members as Chairman. The Chairman or the President of the Company presides over each Board meeting and performs such other duties as may be incidental to the office. Although our Bylaws and Corporate Governance Guidelines provide the Board with the flexibility to appoint one individual to serve as both Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, it is the current policy of the Board to separate these offices. We believe that this separation allows the Chairman to maintain an independent role in management oversight.

Board Committees

The committees established by the Board include an Executive Committee, an Audit Committee, a Compensation Committee, a Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee, and a Board Risk Committee. The Board and each committee have the authority to consult with and retain independent legal, financial or other outside advisors, as each deems necessary and appropriate, without seeking the approval of management.

The current members of each Board committee are identified in the following table, which also indicates the number of meetings each committee held in fiscal 2025.

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name** | **Executive** | **Audit** | **Compensation** | **Corporate Governance <br>& Nominating** | **Board Risk** |
| Frank E. Bertucci | X |  |  |  | Chair |
| Moses H. Feagin |  | X |  |  | X |
| John M. Hairston | X |  |  |  |  |
| Randall W. Hanna | X |  |  |  | X |
| Suzette K. Kent | X |  | X | Vice Chair |  |
| H. Merritt Lane |  |  | Vice Chair |  | X |
| Jerry L. Levens † | Chair | X | X |  |  |
| Constantine S. Liollio | X |  | Chair | X |  |
| Sonya C. Little |  | Vice Chair |  | X |  |
| Thomas H. Olinde | X |  | X | Chair |  |
| Sonia A. Pérez |  |  |  |  | X |
| Christine L. Pickering | X | Chair |  | X |  |
| Joan C. Teofilo |  |  |  |  | Vice Chair |
| C. Richard Wilkins |  |  |  |  | X |
| Albert J. Williams |  |  |  |  | X |
| *Number of Meetings in 2025* | 3 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 |

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† Chairman of the Board

*Executive Committee*

The Executive Committee is currently comprised of Messrs. Levens (Chair), Bertucci, Hairston, Hanna, Liollio, Olinde, Ms. Kent and Ms. Pickering. The Executive Committee's purpose is to provide a means of considering matters that may require Board attention in the intervals between scheduled meetings of the full Board. The Executive Committee is empowered to exercise all of the powers and authority of the Board except as limited by the Company's Articles of Incorporation or Bylaws or by applicable law. All actions of the Executive Committee are deemed to be done under the authority of the Board, with the same force and effect as if the full Board had acted, and any such actions are reported to the full Board. The Executive Committee is governed by a written charter, a copy of which is on the Company's Investor Relations website at investors.hancockwhitney.com under Governance - Committee Composition. The Executive Committee reviews and reassesses the adequacy of the Executive Committee charter on an annual basis.

*Audit Committee*

The Audit Committee is currently comprised of Ms. Pickering (Chair), Ms. Little (Vice Chair), and Messrs. Feagin and Levens. The Board has determined that the Audit Committee members each meet the additional independence criteria of the SEC and Nasdaq for service on the Audit Committee and the Board has further determined that each qualifies as a financially sophisticated audit committee member under Nasdaq rules. Additionally, the Board has classified Ms. Pickering, Ms. Little, and Messrs. Feagin and Levens as "audit committee financial experts" as defined in applicable SEC regulations.

The Audit Committee is governed by a written charter, a copy of which is on the Company's Investor Relations website at investors.hancockwhitney.com under Governance  Committee Composition. Information regarding the functions of the Audit Committee is set forth in the "Audit Committee Report," included on page 62 of this proxy statement.

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*Compensation Committee*

The Compensation Committee is currently comprised of Messrs. Liollio (Chair), Lane (Vice Chair), Levens, Olinde and Ms. Kent. The Board has determined that the Compensation Committee members each meet the Nasdaq and SEC's additional independence criteria for service on the Compensation Committee.

The primary purpose of the Compensation Committee is to aid the Board in discharging its responsibilities relating to the compensation of the Company's directors, the Chief Executive Officer, and any executive officer within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act. The Compensation Committee has overall responsibility for developing, evaluating and approving the Company's compensation plans, policies, and programs and overseeing the Company's strategies relating to its human capital management. The Compensation Committee also oversees the preparation of and approves the annual report on executive compensation, the narrative disclosure of the Company's risk assessment of compensation policies and practices for inclusion in the Company's proxy statement as well as the narrative disclosure of the Company's human capital resources included in its Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Our long-term incentive plans permit the Compensation Committee to delegate all or any of its responsibilities and powers under the plans to individual officers or associates of the Company or a subsidiary, except its authority or responsibility with regard to awards to persons subject to Section 16 of the Exchange Act. The Compensation Committee has delegated limited authority to the Company's Chief Executive Officer to make grants outside of the annual long term incentive program, such as grants to new hires and special retention related grants, individually valued in excess of $100,000, and to the Company's Chief Human Resources Officer to make such grants individually valued up to $100,000. Neither officer is permitted to grant awards to persons subject to Section 16 of the Exchange Act.

The Compensation Committee is governed by a written charter, which further sets forth the Compensation Committee's responsibilities and duties, a copy of which appears on the Company's Investor Relations website at investors.hancockwhitney.com under Governance – Committee Composition. The Compensation Committee reviews and reassesses the adequacy of the Compensation Committee Charter on an annual basis. Additional information regarding the functions and role of the Compensation Committee, including its processes and procedures for the consideration and determination of executive compensation, is set forth under "Compensation Discussion and Analysis – Role of the Compensation Committee" on page 38.

*Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee*

The Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee (the Corporate Governance Committee) is currently comprised of Messrs. Olinde (Chair), Liollio, Ms. Kent (Vice Chair), Ms. Little, and Ms. Pickering. The Board has determined that Messrs. Olinde and Liollio, Ms. Kent, Ms. Little, and Ms. Pickering are each independent under applicable Nasdaq rules. The Corporate Governance Committee oversees a broad range of issues surrounding the composition and operation of the Board and its committees. The Corporate Governance Committee's charter is available on the Company's Investor Relations website at investors.hancockwhitney.com under Governance – Committee Composition. The Corporate Governance Committee reviews and reassesses the adequacy of the Corporate Governance Committee charter on an annual basis.

<u>Director Qualifications, Qualities, and Skills</u>. The Corporate Governance Committee has adopted criteria that it uses when it recommends individuals to be nominated for election to the Board. First, a prospective candidate must meet any eligibility and qualification requirements set forth in any Company, Board or Committee governing documents, as applicable. In addition, the Corporate Governance Committee believes that directors must demonstrate a variety of personal traits, leadership qualities, and individual competencies. The Corporate Governance Committee considers the following criteria in evaluating nominees: integrity, honesty and reputation; financial, regulatory and business experience; familiarity with and participation in one or more communities served by the Bank; dedication to the Company and its shareholders; and independence. For individuals considered for Board leadership roles, the following skill sets are also required: communication skills, facilitation skills, crisis management skills, and relationship building and networking skills. In considering candidates for director, the Corporate Governance Committee reviews these criteria and skills in light of the composition and needs of the current Board and its various committees.

<u>Diversity Considerations</u>. The Company is committed to creating a highly qualified board with diversity of experience, skills, perspective, background and geography and the Corporate Governance Committee includes, and has any search firm that it engages include, such diverse candidates in the pool from which it selects director candidates. In practice, the Corporate Governance Committee has viewed diversity as the collective range of experiences, skills, perspectives, background, and geography that all nominees would bring to the Board. Moreover, the Corporate Governance Committee considers whether the Board, as a whole, reflects the diverse regions, lines of business of our markets, and clients and communities we serve.

<u>Identification of New Directors</u>. The Corporate Governance Committee may identify potential directors in a number of ways. The Corporate Governance Committee may consider recommendations made by current or former

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directors and members of executive management and, where appropriate, the Company may retain a search firm to identify candidates. In addition, the Corporate Governance Committee will consider director candidates recommended by our shareholders. The Committee will evaluate candidates recommended by a shareholder in the same manner as candidates identified by the Committee or recommended by others. The Corporate Governance Committee may choose not to consider an unsolicited recommendation if no vacancy exists on the Board and the Corporate Governance Committee does not perceive a need to increase the size of the Board.

For the Corporate Governance Committee to consider a director candidate for nomination submitted by a shareholder, the shareholder must submit the recommendation in writing to the Corporate Secretary at our principal executive offices. Each submission must include the same information that would be required for a director directly nominated by a shareholder as specified in our Bylaws. See "Shareholder Proposals for the 2027 Annual Meeting" on page 64. For purposes of the 2027 Annual Meeting, any director recommendation by a shareholder must be received by the Corporate Secretary not later than November 17, 2026.

*Board Risk Committee*

The Board Risk Committee is currently comprised of Messrs. Bertucci (Chair), Feagin, Hanna, Lane, Wilkins, Williams, Ms. Pérez, and Ms. Teofilo (Vice Chair). The Board Risk Committee reviews the Company's processes for identifying, assessing, monitoring, and managing credit risk, liquidity risk, market risk, legal risk, operational risk (including cybersecurity risk), reputational risk, and strategic risk. The Board Risk Committee assesses the operational processes associated with the Company's potential risk, including among others, those related to business recovery, compliance, corporate insurance, and legal. The Board Risk Committee may solicit and receive information from other committees as appropriate to fulfill its enterprise-wide risk management oversight function. The Board Risk Committee acts pursuant to a written charter, a copy of which is available on the Company's Investor Relations website at investors.hancockwhitney.com under Governance – Committee Composition. The Board Risk Committee reviews and reassesses the adequacy of the Board Risk Committee charter on an annual basis.

Board's Role in Risk Oversight

Our Board is responsible for overseeing the Company's business and affairs, including risk management. The Board recognizes that risk management is an enterprise-wide responsibility. The Board oversees the Company's corporate risk governance processes primarily through its committees. The Board (or the appropriate committee in the case of risks that are under the purview of a particular committee) receives reports from the appropriate risk executive within the Company to enable it to understand the Company's risk identification, risk management and risk mitigation procedures. The Board Risk Committee, and its subcommittee, the Credit Risk Management Subcommittee, assist the Board in the assessment and management of the Company's policies, procedures and practices relating to credit risk, liquidity risk, market risk, legal risk, operational risk (including cybersecurity, technology and artificial intelligence risks), reputational risk, and strategic risk. Over the past few years, the Board and the Board Risk Committee have spent significant time overseeing management's efforts to address evolving and growing cyber- and technology-related risks and opportunities, including, most recently, the growth in the use and implementation of generative artificial intelligence. For more information about our Board's oversight of cybersecurity risk, please see "Cybersecurity – Cybersecurity Governance" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025. The Audit Committee reviews the Company's control systems to manage and monitor financial risk with management and the internal audit group. The Compensation Committee evaluates and manages any risks posed by compensation programs. In addition, the Board and executive management have appointed a Chief Credit Officer, who is a member of management, to focus on credit risk, as well as a Chief Risk Officer, who is a member of management, to support the risk oversight responsibilities of the Board and its committees and to involve the appropriate personnel in risk management by establishing committees responsible for oversight of the many risks faced by the Company. The Chief Risk Officer reports to the Board Risk Committee each quarter on the Company's enterprise-wide risk management systems and the Chief Credit Officer reports to the Credit Risk Management Subcommittee on credit risks.

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**COMPENSATION OF DIRECTORS**<br>

Director Compensation Program

The Compensation Committee is responsible for the oversight and administration of the director compensation program. The Compensation Committee annually reviews the director compensation program to ensure pay for directors is appropriate for their role as an advisor to the Company and competitive among peers to allow us to attract and retain qualified directors. The Compensation Committee annually engages Aon's Human Capital Solutions practice, a division of Aon plc ("Aon") (otherwise known as McLagan), as its independent compensation consultant, to perform a review of our director compensation program, including a comparison of our program against the programs of the bank and bank holding companies in our Compensation Peer Group (see description of this group in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis) as well as other market practices.

Cash Compensation

Under its 2025 director compensation program, the Company paid its non-employee directors an annual Board cash retainer of $55,000. In addition:

• Audit Committee members (including the Chair) receive an additional annual cash retainer of $15,000, and the Chair receives a further additional annual cash retainer of $16,000;

• Board Risk Committee and Credit Risk Subcommittee of the Board Risk Committee members (including the Chairs) receive an additional annual cash retainer of $10,000, and the Chairs receive a further additional annual cash retainer of $15,000;

• Compensation Committee members (including the Chair) receive an additional annual cash retainer of $10,000, and the Chair receives a further additional annual cash retainer of $10,500;

• Corporate Governance & Nominating Committee members (including the Chair) receive an additional annual cash retainer of $7,500, and the Chair receives a further additional annual cash retainer of $10,500;

• Executive Committee members (including the Chair) receive an additional annual cash retainer of $7,500, and the Chair receives a further additional annual cash retainer of $10,500;

• Merger & Acquisition Committee and Hancock Whitney Bank's Director Trust Committee members (including the Chairs) receive an additional annual cash retainer of $5,000; and

• Chairman of the Board receives an additional annual cash retainer of $65,000.

The Bank's board of directors is composed of the same individuals who serve as members of the Company's Board. Company directors do not receive any additional fees for service on the Bank board.

The annual cash retainer service period is the calendar year, with members of the Board compensated each quarter for their service on the Board. All of the annual cash retainers are prorated for partial year of service on the Board or committees, as applicable.

Each non-employee director may elect to receive payment of their annual cash retainer in the form of cash or shares of Company common stock granted under the 2020 Long Term Incentive Plan (not to exceed $100,000 in Company common stock per year with the remainder paid in cash); or they may elect to defer all or any portion of their fees under the Company's Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan.

Equity Compensation

Non-employee directors receive an annual equity grant with a value approximately equal to $80,000, which is intended to create stock ownership in the Company and focus directors on the long-term performance of the Company's common stock. This grant is issued in the form of restricted stock with a one-year service-based vesting condition. The annual equity grant is awarded on or about the date of the annual meeting of shareholders. The number of shares granted under each award is based on the closing price of the Company's common stock on the last trading day prior to the grant date, rounded to the nearest whole share. Upon appointment to the Board, a one-time award of 100 fully-vested shares of the Company's common stock is provided to each new director to ensure compliance with a Mississippi state statute requiring bank holding company directors to have stock ownership.

Each non-employee director may elect to defer all or any portion of their equity awards under the Company's Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan.

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Director Stock Ownership Guidelines

Pursuant to our stock ownership guidelines as most recently amended, effective January 1, 2022, directors are expected to accumulate and maintain Company stock worth five times their annual Board cash retainer. The value of the director's stock holdings and satisfaction of the ownership guidelines are measured as of January 1 each year by reference to the closing price of a share of Company common stock on the last trading day of the immediately preceding calendar year. The directors are expected to make continuous progress toward their respective ownership requirements and satisfy the applicable ownership guidelines within five years following the effective date of the amended guidelines or such later date that the director becomes subject to the guidelines based on the date initially appointed to the Board as a director. Until the director has satisfied the stock ownership guidelines, the director must retain one-half of any shares acquired from the Company. Once the guidelines have been satisfied, any future sales of stock are only permitted to the extent that the director continues to meet the guidelines immediately following such sale.

The following table sets forth the cash and other compensation that we paid to our non-employee directors for their services during 2025.

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **2025 DIRECTOR COMPENSATION** | **2025 DIRECTOR COMPENSATION** | **2025 DIRECTOR COMPENSATION** | **2025 DIRECTOR COMPENSATION** |
| Name | Fees Earned or<br>Paid in Cash <sup>(1)</sup> | Stock Awards <sup>(2)</sup> | Total |
| Frank E. Bertucci | $102500 | $79986 | $182486 |
| Moses H. Feagin Sr. | 90000 | 79986 | 169986 |
| Hardy B. Fowler<sup>(3)</sup> | 37667 | ― | 37667 |
| Randall W. Hanna | 102500 | 79986 | 182486 |
| Suzette K. Kent | 87500 | 79986 | 167486 |
| H. Merritt Lane | 75000 | 79986 | 154986 |
| Jerry L. Levens | 168000 | 79986 | 247986 |
| Constantine S. Liollio | 97000 | 79986 | 176986 |
| Sonya C. Little | 87500 | 79986 | 167486 |
| Thomas H. Olinde | 90500 | 79986 | 170486 |
| Sonia A. Pérez | 80000 | 79986 | 159986 |
| Christine L. Pickering | 111000 | 79986 | 190986 |
| Joan C. Teofilo | 75000 | 79986 | 154986 |
| C. Richard Wilkins | 80000 | 79986 | 159986 |
| Albert J. Williams<sup>(4)</sup> | 56250 | 84982 | 141232 |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)Reflects the annual cash retainer plus any additional committee or committee chair cash retainers paid in 2025 including amounts deferred under the NQDC Plan.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2)Reflects the grant date fair value of 1,601 shares of common stock granted to all non-employee directors on April 23, 2025 (other than Mr. Fowler who was not serving as a director on such date), whether or not those awards were deferred under the NQDC Plan. The number of shares of restricted stock held by each director as of December 31, 2025 was 1,601 shares.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3)Mr. Fowler did not stand for re-election at the 2025 annual meeting. Amounts presented reflect the cash retainer paid for his service to the Board from January 1, 2025 through the end of his term on April 23, 2025.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4)Mr. Williams was appointed to the Board on April 23, 2025. In connection with his appointment to the Board, Mr. Williams was granted 100 shares of common stock, which were fully vested upon issuance to ensure compliance with the Mississippi state statute requiring bank holding company directors to have stock ownership. The grant date fair value was April 23, 2025.

**COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION**<br>

The Compensation Committee is currently comprised of Messrs. Liollio (Chair), Lane (Vice Chair), Levens, Olinde and Ms. Kent. None of the members of our Compensation Committee (i) has been an officer or associate of our Company or any of our subsidiaries or (ii) had, during the last completed fiscal year, any relationship requiring disclosure by the Company under any paragraph of Item 404 of SEC Regulation S-K. In addition, in the last fiscal year, no executive officer of our Company served as a director or member of the compensation committee (or its equivalent) of the board of directors of another entity whose executive officer(s) served on our Board or our Compensation Committee.

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**COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS**<br>

The following Compensation Discussion and Analysis ("CD&A") describes and analyzes our executive compensation philosophy and program in the context of the compensation paid during our 2025 fiscal year to our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and our three other most highly-compensated executive officers who were serving as executive officers at the end of the fiscal year (who are referred to herein as our named executive officers, or NEOs). Our fiscal year 2025 NEOs are:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Name** | **Title** |
| John M. Hairston | President and CEO |
| Michael M. Achary | Chief Financial Officer |
| D. Shane Loper | Chief Operating Officer |
| Christopher S. Ziluca | Chief Credit Officer |
| Michael Otero | Chief Risk Officer |

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Later in this proxy statement under the heading "Executive Compensation," we have included tables containing specific information about the compensation earned by or paid to our NEOs in 2025. The discussion below is intended to summarize and explain the detailed information provided in those tables and to put that information into the context of our overall compensation program.

We refer to the non-GAAP financial measures Adjusted Revenue, Adjusted Pre-Provision Net Revenue and Adjusted Earnings per Share (Adjusted EPS) throughout this proxy statement because payouts under our annual cash incentives and long-term incentives are based on achievement of performance goals related to these key financial metrics. For a reconciliation of these non-GAAP measures to GAAP measures, refer to Appendix A to this proxy statement. For more information about our business, please see "Business" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025.

**Executive Summary**

*Overview of Company Performance in Fiscal 2025*

Reported earnings per diluted common share were $5.67 in 2025, compared to $5.28 per diluted common share in 2024. The results for 2025 include a charge of $5.9 million (pre-tax), or $0.05 per share after tax, related to the acquisition of Sabal Trust Company. The results for 2024 include a charge of $3.8 million (pre-tax), or $0.03 per share after tax, related to a revision of the FDIC special assessment charge.

Adjusted pre-provision net revenue (PPNR)\* totaled $679.9 million in 2025, an increase of $38.8 million, or 6%, from 2024. Fee income grew 12% year over year, driven primarily by a 25% increase in trust fees following the Sabal Trust Company (Sabal) acquisition. Adjusted noninterest expense increased 4%, reflecting investments in technology and other revenue enhancing initiatives.

Net interest margin increased 10 bps to 3.47% in 2025, largely a result of the changing interest rate environment. Our efficiency ratio was 54.78% in 2025, down from 55.36% in 2024.

Total loans at December 31, 2025 were $24.0 billion, up $659 million, or 3%, from December 31, 2024. Total deposits were $29.3 billion at December 31, 2025, down $213 million, or 1%, from December 31, 2024. Deposit levels and composition were influenced by a decline in time deposits and the impact of a changing rate environment.

Strong earnings supported continued capital generation, with year-end 2025 capital ratios remaining well above regulatory requirements. We proactively deployed capital during 2025 through our acquisition of Sabal, a 12.5% increase in our common stock dividend, and through repurchasing 4.3 million shares of common stock under our share repurchase program. We ended 2025 with a common equity tier 1 ratio (CET1) of 13.65%, down 49 bps from 2024, and tangible common equity ratio (TCE) of 10.06%, up 59 bps from 2024.

\* For more information and for a reconciliation of this and other non-GAAP financial measures, refer to Appendix A to this proxy statement.

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*Highlights of 2025 Financial Results*

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Net income for the year ended December 31, 2025 increased to $486.1 million, or $5.67 per diluted common share, compared to $460.8 million, or $5.28 per diluted common share in 2024

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Adjusted pre-provision net revenue (PPNR)\* totaled $679.9 million in 2025, up $38.8 million from 2024, reflecting higher revenue and modest adjusted expense growth. Supplemental items in 2025 included a charge of $5.9 million (pre-tax) related to the Sabal acquisition, compared to a charge of $3.8 million (pre-tax) in 2024, related to a revision of the FDIC special assessment charge

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Net interest margin (NIM) expanded 10 bps to 3.47% in 2025, as we were able to reduce total cost of funds and increase yields on securities to more than offset lower loan yields in this falling interest rate environment

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Loans of $24.0 billion, up $659.0 million compared to 2024, due to broad-based growth across our footprint and business segments

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Deposits of $29.3 billion, down $213.0 million from 2024, reflecting shifts driven by the falling interest-rate environment

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Criticized commercial loans decreased and nonaccrual loans were relatively stable throughout the year; year-end 2025 allowance for credit losses to total loans strong at 1.43% compared to 1.47% at year-end 2024

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Capital ratios are strong with CET1 of 13.65% at December 31, 2025, compared to 14.14% at December 31, 2024; TCE was 10.06% at December 31, 2025, compared to 9.47% at December 31, 2024

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Dividends were increased 12.5%, or $0.05 per share, in January of 2025, to a regular quarterly dividend of $0.45 per share

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•We repurchased 4.3 million shares of our common stock during 2025, fully exhausting the shares authorized under our existing share repurchase program; in December 2025, the Board of Directors authorized a new share repurchase program effective through December 31, 2026, under which the Company may repurchase up to 5% of its common stock outstanding at December 31, 2025, or 4.1 million shares

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Tangible book value per common share improved 12% in 2025, reaching $54.22 at December 31, 2025

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The stock price improved during the year, closing at $63.68 on December 31, 2025, up 16% from the year-end 2024 closing price

We are exceptionally proud of the Hancock Whitney team and the Company's performance in 2025. Throughout the year, we focused on growing the balance sheet, expanding fee income, investing in future-focused capabilities, and proactively returning capital to shareholders. We believe we are well positioned to build on this momentum and continue enhancing shareholder value.

\* For more information and for a reconciliation of this and other non-GAAP financial measures, refer to Appendix A to this proxy statement.

*Overview of our Compensation Programs*

Our compensation programs are designed to provide executives with a balance of competitive fixed base salaries as well as variable incentive compensation opportunities that align with short- and long-term Company performance and incorporate compensation best practices that promote sound corporate governance. The Compensation Committee believes executive base salaries and compensation targets should generally align with the median (50th percentile) of the Compensation Peer Group (as discussed below) with payouts of variable compensation dependent on actual performance. As described further below, with the exception of base salary and time-based restricted stock awards (which represent a minority of our annual equity awards), all direct compensation is performance-based. Executives are also subject to stock ownership guidelines as well as post-vest holding periods on equity awards further aligning their interests with those of our shareholders.

Our annual cash incentive plan rewards our executives for achievement of short-term Company performance goals, which are further discussed below under "Annual Cash Incentive." Our long-term incentive plan rewards our executives for achievement of long-term goals measured over a multi-year period through "performance stock awards" consisting of performance-based restricted stock units (PSUs) and provides retention value through "restricted stock awards" consisting of time-based restricted stock units (RSUs) and time-based restricted stock (RSAs). To the extent earned,

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performance stock awards vest based on performance during the performance period after actual performance results for the performance period are certified and the service period is satisfied. RSUs and RSAs vest in annual installments on the first day of the month of each of the first three anniversaries of the grant date and are also subject to a two-year post-vest holding period. The value of the long-term incentive awards increases or decreases as our share price increases or decreases, thereby aligning the interests of our executives with those of our shareholders. Awards under our long-term incentive plan for fiscal 2025 are further discussed below under "Long-Term Incentives."

Together, these plans support our operating strategy to provide clients with the financial sophistication and range of products of a regional bank, while successfully retaining the commercial appeal and level of service of a community bank. The Company's size and scale and associated compensation program enable us to attract, motivate, and retain high quality executives who are focused on executing this strategy.

*Impact of Performance on 2025 Compensation*

The following results and key decisions by our Compensation Committee support our pay for performance philosophy and also highlight the Compensation Committee's focus on protecting our shareholders' interests.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•<u>Base Salaries Aligned with Market.</u> The Compensation Committee believes that executives' base salaries should generally align with the 50th percentile of the Compensation Peer Group. After reviewing the Compensation Peer Group compensation study (discussed below) and acknowledging that base salaries were within the market median, the Compensation Committee approved base salary increases for NEOs effective April 1, 2025, based on individual and Company performance, aligning the NEOs within approximately 10% of market median.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•<u>Annual Cash Incentives Earned</u>. Consistent with prior years, the Compensation Committee set the 2025 performance goals for annual cash incentives based on Board-approved budget and other goals related to our strategic priorities (see "Annual Cash Incentive" below). After reviewing our overall financial performance compared to performance goals as well as regional and top performing peers and our internal corporate strategic objectives, the Compensation Committee determined that the 2025 annual cash incentive awards to our executive officers had been earned and approved payout at 122.14% of target levels based on actual achievement of performance goals with no Compensation Committee discretion or adjustment applied to the calculated results.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•<u>Long-Term Incentives Awarded</u>. In 2025, the Compensation Committee continued its practice of using grants of both performance-based stock awards and time-based restricted stock unit awards to align executive and shareholder interests. Sixty percent of the annual long-term incentive award for each of our NEOs was comprised of PSUs, which were bifurcated into three nearly equally weighted parts, one using a three-year relative Total Shareholder return (TSR) performance metric, one using a three-year relative Operating Return on Average Assets (ROAA) and one using a three-year relative Return on Average Tangible Common Equity (ROATCE), with a three-year service requirement. Based on actual performance, the PSUs could payout between 0% and 200% of target shares. The remainder of the award was comprised of RSUs which vest based on continued service in annual increments over a three-year period. See "Long-Term Incentives" below for further details regarding the 2025 equity grants.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•<u>Vesting of 2023 Performance Stock Awards</u>. Performance stock awards granted in 2023 with a service-vesting period ending on February 1, 2026 were earned collectively at 129.24% of target shares based on our achievement of TSR compared to our peers over a 3-year performance period ending December 31, 2025 and adjusted EPS compared to target over a 2-year performance period ending December 31, 2024. Collectively, our NEOs vested performance awards were valued at $5,542,941, calculated using the closing stock price of our common stock on January 30, 2026, the trading day prior to the distribution of the shares. Net shares issued upon vesting of the award and payment of withholding taxes are subject to an additional two-year post-vest holding period. See "Long-Term Incentives" below for further details regarding the vesting of the 2023 awards.

We believe that the compensation provided to each NEO in 2025 was fair, reasonable and aligned with our performance and strategic objectives.

**Objectives of the Company's Compensation Program**

Our compensation program is designed to achieve the following objectives:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•drive performance in support of the Company's financial goals, balancing short-term and intermediate operational objectives and performance with long-term strategic goals;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•align executives' long-term rewards with the interests of our shareholders;

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•provide increased compensation opportunities for exceptional individual performance, which can result in differentiated compensation among executives who are otherwise of comparable rank; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•place at risk a significant portion of total compensation, making it contingent on Company performance, but in a manner consistent with our risk management policies.

**Sound Compensation and Governance Practices**

Our executive compensation program is designed to create an appropriate linkage between executive pay, Company performance, and the return on shareholder investment. The Compensation Committee works with its independent compensation consultant to evaluate the program and maintain alignment with shareholders' interests and to incorporate strong governance standards within our compensation program, as outlined below and further discussed in this CD&A.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•<u>A Significant Percentage of Executive Target Compensation is Performance-Based</u>. Approximately 75% of Mr. Hairston's total target direct compensation (base salary, target annual incentive, and target long-term incentive awards) and approximately 65% of the total target direct compensation of our other NEOs is either at risk and must be earned on the basis of attainment of corporate performance goals (in the case of annual cash incentive awards and performance stock awards) or its future value is contingent upon the future performance of the Company's common stock (in the case of our performance stock awards and time-based restricted stock unit awards).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•<u>Majority of Long-Term Incentives Based on Stock Performance</u>. Our NEOs receive 60% of their target long-term incentive in performance-based awards. The Compensation Committee believes that the higher weighting of performance-based awards provides better alignment of the executives' compensation with our shareholders' interests.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•<u>No Excise Tax Gross-Up Provisions</u>. None of the change in control agreements in place for our NEOs or other executives provide for excise tax gross-ups. Instead, these agreements provide for a "best of net" approach to address any potential excise tax payments that might be triggered by a change in control. (See "Elements of Our Compensation Program – Employment Contracts and Change in Control Agreements" herein.)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•<u>Compensation Recoupment Policy</u>. The Compensation Committee has adopted a compensation recoupment policy compliant with applicable listing standards of Nasdaq and Rule 10D-1 under the Exchange Act, including a mandatory recoupment which requires the Company to recover the amount of all Erroneously Awarded Performance-Based Incentive Compensation Received by a person in the event that the Company is required to prepare an accounting restatement. The policy also provides the Compensation Committee with discretion to apply the mandatory recoupment to additional employees and/or seek to recover service-based equity awards in addition to performance awards when mandatory recoupment is triggered. Additionally, the policy provides the Compensation Committee with discretion to recover from any employee where an accounting restatement has not occurred, but the misconduct of a person causes material harm to the Company. The compensation recoupment policy is filed as Exhibit 97 to our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, filed with the SEC on February 27, 2026.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•<u>Limited Perquisites</u>. We generally provide only limited perquisites to our executives, consistent with our goal of aligning our executives' interests with the interests of our shareholders.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•<u>Executive Stock Ownership Requirements</u>. Under our stock ownership guidelines as amended, effective January 1, 2022, our CEO must own Company common stock worth five times his base salary, and our other executive officers must own Company common stock worth three times their base salary. Until an executive officer has satisfied the stock ownership guidelines, he or she must retain one-half of any shares acquired from the Company (net of any tax withholdings). Once the guidelines have been satisfied, any future sales of stock are only permitted to the extent that the guidelines continue to be met immediately following such sale.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•<u>Insider Trading Policy</u>. The Company has adopted an Insider Trading Policy governing the purchase, sale and/or other dispositions of its securities by directors, officers and employees, that is reasonably designed to promote compliance with insider trading laws, rules and regulations and any applicable listing standards. It is also the policy of the Company to comply with all applicable securities laws when transacting in its own securities. Our Insider Trading Policy is filed as Exhibit 19 to our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, filed with the SEC on February 27, 2026.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•<u>Prohibition on Hedging Transactions</u>. The Company's Insider Trading Policy prohibits all of our directors, officers and associates (and their respective immediate family members) from engaging in hedging or monetization strategies involving exchange funds, prepaid variable forward contracts, equity swaps, puts, calls, collars, forwards and other derivative instruments, including short sale transactions, or otherwise engaging in

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transactions that hedge or offset or are designed to hedge or offset any decrease in the market value of the Company's securities.

**Results of 2025 Advisory Shareholder Vote on Executive Compensation**

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•At our 2025 annual meeting of shareholders, 97% of the votes cast approved the compensation of our named executive officers, as discussed in the 2025 proxy statement. The Board and the Compensation Committee appreciate and value the views of our shareholders. In considering the results of this advisory vote on executive compensation, the Compensation Committee concluded that the compensation paid to our NEOs and the Company's overall pay practices have strong shareholder support.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•In light of the strong shareholder support of the compensation paid to our NEOs as evidenced by the results of this advisory vote, the Compensation Committee decided to retain our general approach to executive compensation for 2025 and 2026. Future annual advisory votes on executive compensation will serve as an additional tool to guide the Compensation Committee in evaluating the alignment of the Company's executive compensation programs with the interests of the Company and its shareholders.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•In Proposal No. 2, shareholders are being asked to approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation of our NEOs for 2025 as disclosed in the proxy statement.

**Compensation Review Process**

*Role of the Compensation Committee*

The Compensation Committee is responsible for annually assessing the performance of our NEOs and for determining both their annual salary and incentive (short- and long-term) compensation opportunities. Each of the members of our Compensation Committee is independent as defined under SEC and Nasdaq listing standards. The Committee may form and delegate responsibility to subcommittees of the Compensation Committee as necessary or appropriate. The Compensation Committee from time to time retains independent compensation consultants to assist in evaluating the compensation practices of the Company and to provide advice and ongoing recommendations regarding executive compensation practices consistent with our business goals and pay philosophy.

*Role of the Compensation Consultant*

In 2024, the Compensation Committee engaged Aon to provide advisory service to the Compensation Committee, which the Committee considered in connection with setting executive compensation for 2025. The scope of Aon's executive compensation consulting assignments included a comparison of our current levels of base salary, annual cash incentive opportunity and equity-based compensation to those paid by bank and bank holding companies in the Compensation Peer Group (listed below). The Compensation Committee considered data developed by Aon in its assessment of whether each element of the executives' compensation package was competitive with the market and to determine whether any adjustments were appropriate. This information was also used to establish the parameters of long-term incentives granted to the NEOs. The total fees paid to Aon in 2025 for executive compensation consulting services were $391,157. In addition, management engaged Aon to provide additional services relating to compensation framework design, for which we paid fees to Aon in 2025 of $265,376.

The Compensation Committee assessed the independence of Aon under the applicable SEC and Nasdaq rules and concluded that Aon's engagement presented no conflicts of interest.

*Role of Executives in Compensation Committee Deliberations*

The Compensation Committee works closely with the Chief Human Resources Officer, Director of Total Rewards, and other members of the Company's human resources team, who provide administrative support to the Compensation Committee, as requested. Executives may attend a Compensation Committee meeting to discuss Company and individual performance or to provide pertinent financial, tax, accounting, or operational information. Executives in attendance may provide their insights and suggestions, but only the independent Compensation Committee members have the right to vote on decisions regarding executive compensation.

For each executive officer other than himself, the Chief Executive Officer makes recommendations to the Compensation Committee regarding compensation. The Compensation Committee reviews recommendations made by our Chief Executive Officer and information from the Aon executive compensation review in determining compensation levels and program designs. The Compensation Committee's decisions for all executives including the CEO are based on a variety of factors, including short- and long-term Company performance, the officer's level of responsibility, an assessment of individual performance and competitive market data. The Chief Executive Officer is excused from the meeting before decisions are made on his compensation.

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*Review of Competitive Market Data*

The Compensation Committee periodically reviews and analyzes market data provided by Aon in an effort to ensure that our executive officer compensation is competitive. Such a review was conducted in 2024, which served as a guide to the Committee in setting our 2025 executive compensation levels. As part of this review, the Compensation Committee compared compensation paid to our executive officers with compensation paid to the named executive officers in similar positions at banks of comparable size (which we refer to as the Compensation Peer Group). The Compensation Committee used the market information compiled as well as additional information regarding the ongoing movement of executive compensation in the banking industry to test the reasonableness of the compensation decisions we made for 2025. Aon conducted another review of executive compensation in October 2025, which was used to make compensation decisions for 2026.

The 2024 Compensation Peer Group used in connection with 2025 compensation decisions consisted of a peer group of 24 banks and bank holding companies aligned with the Company's business profile and external environment, and positioned the Company close to the peer group median in terms of asset size. The 2024 Compensation Peer Group was comprised of peers with total assets ranging from $25 billion to $100 billion respectively at the time of selection. The median total assets for the 2024 Compensation Peer Group was $44 billion, which positioned the Company at the 35th percentile of the peer group at the time of selection. We referred to the 2024 Compensation Peer Group in establishing compensation levels and program design features for 2025.

The Company's 2024 Peer Bank Group consists of the following 24 banks and bank holding companies.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **<u>COMPANY NAME</u>** | **<u>TICKER</u>** |
| Associated Banc-Corp | ASB |
| BankUnited Inc. | BKU |
| BOK Financial Corp. | BOKF |
| Cadence Bank | CADE |
| Columbia Banking System Inc. | COLB |
| Comerica Inc. | CMA |
| Commerce Bancshares Inc. | CBSH |
| Cullen/Frost Bankers Inc. | CFR |
| F.N.B. Corp. | FNB |
| First Interstate BancSystem | FIBK |
| Fulton Financial Corp. | FULT |
| Glacier Bancorp Inc. | GBCI |
| Old National Bancorp | ONB |
| Pinnacle Financial Partners | PNFP |
| Prosperity Bancshares Inc. | PB |
| Simmons First National Corp. | SFNC |
| SouthState Corp. | SSB |
| Synovus Financial Corp. | SNV |
| Texas Capital Bancshares Inc. | TCBI |
| UMB Financial Corp. | UMBF |
| United Bankshares Inc. | UBSI |
| United Community Banks Inc. | UCB |
| Valley National Bancorp | VLY |
| Wintrust Financial Corp. | WTFC |

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*Assessment and Determination of Executive Compensation*

We believe that the total compensation package available to our executives should provide the opportunity for enhanced levels of financial reward for achievement of higher levels of performance, recognize and reward both short- and long-term performance, and be competitive with our peers to attract, motivate, and retain talented and skilled executives. After careful consideration and analysis of market survey data provided by the Compensation Committee's independent compensation consultant, executive officer compensation is set at levels we believe to be competitive with the Company's Compensation Peer Group and compatible with our internal business plans. While the Compensation Committee considers many factors in setting executive compensation, generally the Compensation Committee strives to achieve a market position for an executive's total compensation at approximately the median of the Compensation Peer Group assuming the Company's performance is consistent with the group.

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**Elements of Our Compensation Program**

In 2025, our executive officer compensation program consisted of the following elements: base salary, annual cash incentives, long-term equity incentives, retirement benefits, change in control protections, and other benefits including limited perquisites.

*Base Salary*

We pay base salaries to our executive officers as compensation for performing their day-to-day responsibilities. Base salaries are set based on a variety of factors, including scope of the job, experience, market comparable positions, internal pay equity and alignment, and an overall assessment of Company and individual performance. We rely substantially on industry and Compensation Peer Group compensation data provided by the Compensation Committee's independent compensation consultant to evaluate whether the base salaries of our executives are competitive in the marketplace and also evaluate the actual performance of each executive to determine if base salary increases are warranted.

The Compensation Committee believes that executives' base salaries should generally align with the market 50th percentile of the Compensation Peer Group. The Compensation Committee may, however, set an executive's salary above the Compensation Peer Group median if it determines that specific performance, needs, or other circumstances justify a base salary at a higher level.

After reviewing the 2024 Compensation Peer Group compensation study, provided by its independent compensation consultant, the Compensation Committee determined that the base salaries of our NEOs were within the competitive range for peer executives. In early 2025, the Compensation Committee, in consultation with its independent compensation consultant, approved the following base salary increases for each of our NEOs, effective April 1, 2025, in recognition of individual and Company performance, which positioned the base salary of the NEOs within approximately 10% of the median of the Compensation Peer Group.

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **NEO** | **2024 Salary** | **Increase<br>Effective 2025** | **2025 Salary** | **Percentage <br>Increase** |
| John M. Hairston | $1202580 | $24052 | $1226632 | 2.00% |
| Michael M. Achary | $600000 | $40000 | $640000 | 6.67% |
| D. Shane Loper | $735000 | $55000 | $790000 | 7.48% |
| Christopher S. Ziluca | $540000 | $25000 | $565000 | 4.63% |
| Michael Otero | $475000 | $25000 | $500000 | 5.26% |

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*Annual Cash Incentive*

The Company uses annual cash incentives to focus attention on current strategic priorities and drive achievement of short-term corporate strategic objectives. Each NEO has a target annual incentive opportunity that may be earned between 0% and 200% based on corporate performance.

For purposes of the annual cash incentive, the Compensation Committee measures corporate performance based on actual performance compared to pre-established performance goals as a base completion percentage. The Compensation Committee may also review the Company's performance compared to the performance of certain regional and top quartile peers, together with the Company's progress with respect to certain corporate strategic objectives to further assess overall corporate performance. The Compensation Committee has the discretion to increase or decrease the amount of annual cash incentive earned based on these factors.

For 2025, the annual cash incentive plan used three key performance measurement metrics: adjusted EPS, adjusted pre-provision net revenue, and one credit quality metric. The Compensation Committee may also approve adjustments as it deems appropriate as discussed below based on its overall assessment of Company performance against the performance of regional and top quartile peers and consideration of other corporate strategic objectives.

The financial performance goals for the annual cash incentive and actual results for 2025 are set forth below:

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Corporate<br>Performance Goal** | **% of Plan<br>Component** | **2025<br>Threshold** | **2025 <br>Target** | **2025<br>Maximum** | **2025 Actual<br>Results** |
| Adjusted EPS | 40% | $4.22 | $5.27 | $6.32 | $5.72 |
| Adjusted Pre-Provision Net Revenue ($ in millions) | 40% | $530.5 | $663.1 | $795.7 | $679.9 |
| Net Charge-Offs (% of average loans) | 20% | 0.24% | 0.22% | 0.19% | 0.22% |

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For 2025, comparing actual corporate performance to the 2025 corporate performance goal targets, the resulting completion percentage was driven by above target performance for the Adjusted EPS and Adjusted Pre-Provision Net Revenue metrics, and target performance for the Net-Charge Offs metric. After considering these results and reviewing

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our overall financial performance compared to regional and top quartile peers and relative impact to annual plan in comparison to peers, the Compensation Committee determined that annual cash incentive awards to our executive officers were earned based on the actual aggregate completion percentage of 122.14%. No modifications or discretion were utilized by the Compensation Committee.

In addition to awards made under our annual cash incentive plan for corporate performance, the plan also allows for the Compensation Committee (for all officers) and the CEO (for officers other than himself) to recommend adjustments based on results of near-term performance related to one-time initiatives, specific development efforts, or short-term projects. For 2025, no such adjustments were recommended. For the year ended December 31, 2025, the following cash bonuses were awarded:

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Named<br>Executive Officer** | **Target Value as a % of Base Salary** | **Corporate Performance<br>Completion** | **Corporate Performance Award** | **Total Cash<br>Incentive** |
| John M. Hairston | 120% | 122.14% | $1789088 | $1789088 |
| Michael M. Achary | 100% | 122.14% | $769619 | $769619 |
| D. Shane Loper | 120% | 122.14% | $1137966 | $1137966 |
| Christopher S. Ziluca | 65% | 122.14% | $443648 | $443648 |
| Michael Otero | 65% | 122.14% | $392046 | $392046 |

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For 2026, the annual cash incentive plan will continue to use the same three performance metrics and weightings. We believe these performance metrics provide a direct alignment of executive and shareholder interests.

*Long-Term Incentives*

The purpose of our long-term incentive program is to ensure that our executives focus not only on short-term returns but also on achieving long-term Company goals, growth and creation of shareholder value. We further believe that equity ownership by our executive officers aligns executives' interests with those of our shareholders. In 2025, the Compensation Committee used both performance-based stock unit awards (PSUs) and time-based restricted stock unit awards (RSUs) for long-term incentive compensation, with a higher percentage of the total award value being delivered to our NEOs in the form of PSUs. The relative weighting of the award values strengthens the alignment of the executive and shareholder interests. The PSUs only provide value to the executive if threshold achievement is met, as described below. We used RSUs as a portion of our long-term awards because we believe they provide an effective retention incentive for the executives and align the interests of our executives with those of our shareholders.

The Compensation Committee sets the target value of the equity awards granted as a percentage of each executive's base salary, with the target percentage based upon the executive's position. We believe using a percentage of base salary as the target provides us greater control and consistency relative to the value of equity awards we grant each year. For 2025, the long-term incentive allocations for the NEOs were set as follows:

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Named<br>Executive Officer** | **Target Value of LTI as <br>a % of Base Salary** | **LTI Target Value** | **% Delivered in <br>Performance Awards** | **% Delivered in <br>Restricted Stock Units** |
| John M. Hairston | 240% | $2943916 | 60% | 40% |
| Michael M. Achary | 140% | $896000 | 60% | 40% |
| D. Shane Loper | 150% | $1185000 | 60% | 40% |
| Christopher S. Ziluca | 100% | $565000 | 60% | 40% |
| Michael Otero | 100% | $500000 | 60% | 40% |

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The RSUs approved and granted in 2025 vest based on continued service, with the awards vesting in annual increments over a three-year period. Cash dividend equivalents based on the amount of any dividends paid by the Company on its common stock during the vesting period are accrued and accumulated interest-free on each of the RSUs and paid only if and when the underlying unit(s) become vested.

For the PSUs approved and granted in 2025, the Company based grants on three nearly equally weighted performance measures:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Three-year relative Total Shareholder Return (34%)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Three-year average relative Operating Return on Average Assets (ROAA) (33%)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Three-year average relative Return on Average Tangible Common Equity (ROATCE) (33%)

In the case of each of the three metrics, there is a three-year performance period after which vesting will be determined based on certified results. In the case of TSR, performance will be based on the return to shareholders from the

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beginning of the performance period to the end of the performance period (a 20-day averaging period is used at both the beginning and the end of the performance period). In the case of Operating ROAA and ROATCE, the average of each of the three one-year periods within the three-year performance period is used.

The Compensation Committee believes that the growth targets represent appropriately challenging performance that will lead to increased shareholder value if achieved.

For all PSUs granted, results that fall in-between the "maximum," "target" and "threshold" levels of the applicable performance criteria will be paid out on a sliding scale.

NEOs received the following long-term incentive awards for fiscal year 2025:

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Named<br>Executive Officer** | **RSUs** | **Value of RSU<br>Awards** <sup>(1)</sup> | **PSUs** | **Value of<br>PSU Awards** <sup>(1)</sup> | **Total Award<br>Value** |
| John M. Hairston | 20946 | $1177584 | 31418 | $1766320 | $2943904 |
| Michael M. Achary | 6375 | $358403 | 9563 | $537632 | $896034 |
| D. Shane Loper | 8431 | $473991 | 12646 | $710958 | $1184949 |
| Christopher S. Ziluca | 4020 | $226004 | 6030 | $339007 | $565011 |
| Michael Otero | 3557 | $199975 | 5336 | $299990 | $499964 |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)For purposes of determining the number of RSUs and PSUs to be granted, the Compensation Committee values each award based on the closing price of our common stock on the day prior to the grant date, which values are reflected in the table above. For purposes of determining the grant date fair value of the awards to be reported in the "Summary Compensation Table," the awards are valued in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718 as required by SEC rules. The PSUs subject to the TSR, ROAA and ROATCE metrics are valued as of the date of grant based on the grant date fair value of the PSUs determined using a Monte Carlo simulation method, as set forth in Note 19 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025.

PSUs granted in 2023 with a three-year service-vesting period ending February 1, 2026 vested on February 1, 2026, after certification of performance results by the Compensation Committee on January 28, 2026. One-half of these PSUs could be earned based on the Company's TSR relative to a peer group for the three-year performance period. The Company's relative TSR compared to the applicable peer group was slightly below the 75th percentile, which resulted in our executive officers vesting at 193.33% of the target awards. The other half of these PSUs could be earned based upon achievement of collective EPS relative to a two-year performance goal. The Company's collective EPS was below target performance, which resulted in our executive officers vesting at 65.14% of the target awards. In the aggregate, our NEOs vested in 129.24% of the targeted shares equaling 80,566 shares valued at $5,542,941 calculated using the closing price of our common stock on January 30, 2026, the day prior to the vesting. Net shares issued upon vesting of the award and after payment of withholding taxes are subject to an additional two-year post-vest holding period.

*Retirement Benefits*

Retirement benefits also play an important role within our overall executive compensation strategy because providing our executives with financial security at retirement means they are incentivized to remain long-term associates of our Company. Based on information provided by the Compensation Committee's consultant, we believe that our retirement program, including the benefits that are earned based on service, is comparable to programs offered by the companies in our Compensation Peer Group. Our retirement program continues to be an essential component to ensure that our executive compensation program remains competitive.

During 2025, the Company maintained the following two retirement plans available to all eligible associates:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Hancock Whitney Corporation Pension Plan

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Hancock Whitney Corporation 401(k) Savings Plan

The Hancock Whitney Corporation Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan was also available to our NEOs. These plans are described in more detail under "Executive Compensation – Pension Benefits" and "Executive Compensation – Nonqualified Deferred Compensation" herein.

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*Perquisites and Other Benefits* 

We seek to maintain a cost conscious culture in connection with the benefits we provide to our executive officers, consistent with our objective to tie a significant portion of executive compensation to Company performance. Our NEOs receive limited perquisites, such as club dues, professional organization dues, Company paid parking, Company provided auto allowances, executive physicals, and housing allowances for certain executives who do not reside permanently in the New Orleans, LA area, but have extensive business-related job responsibilities in the market. We also provide our executive officers long-term disability insurance coverage that provides tax-free benefits. Based on information provided by the Compensation Committee's consultant, we believe the perquisites provided to our NEOs are reasonable in light of industry practices and perquisites available to executive officers of the companies in our Compensation Peer Group. We review the perquisites provided to our executive officers periodically to ensure that our benefits are consistent with our overall compensation objective of providing competitive compensation to our executive officers.

*Employment Contracts and Change in Control Agreements*

We do not have employment contracts with the NEOs. However, each NEO has a change in control agreement that protects the executive's employment for two years following a change in control of the Company. The occurrence or potential occurrence of a change in control would create uncertainty regarding whether the employment of our executive officers whom we consider to be key employees would be continued. In the Compensation Committee's view, providing these change in control protections better enables the executive officers to focus on the Company's business and serve the shareholders' interests, particularly during periods of consolidation or merger and acquisition activity within the banking industry.

Under the agreements, if the executive's employment is terminated by the Company without cause during the two-year period following a change in control, then the executive is entitled to a severance payment equal to a multiple of two or three times the executive's base salary plus the average bonus paid to the executive for the three fiscal years preceding the termination, and continued medical coverage of 24 or 36 months, depending on the executive's position. The executive is also entitled to this severance payment if the executive resigns due to disability during the protected period or because of a material reduction in the executive's base salary or duties, or the executive's relocation during the protected period after notice and an opportunity to cure is provided to the Company. Under these agreements, the NEOs are responsible for any excise tax payments due. The agreements also bind the executives to certain non-solicitation, non-disparagement and confidentiality covenants. These agreements are described in more detail under "Executive Compensation – Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control" herein.

*Tax and Accounting Considerations* 

The Compensation Committee considers the tax and accounting implications in the design of its compensation programs. For example, in the selection of long-term incentive instruments, the Compensation Committee reviews the projected expense amounts and expense timing associated with alternative types of awards. The grant-date fair value of share-based awards that are settled in stock, such as RSAs, RSUs and PSUs, is expensed over the service period or vesting period of the grant. For those grants with a two-year post-vest holding requirement, the grant-date fair value is reduced by a liquidity discount to reflect the holding period requirement.

*Stock Ownership Guidelines* 

We believe that the executive officers of our Company should maintain equity interests in the Company to ensure that they have a meaningful economic stake in the Company and that the interests of our executives and our shareholders are aligned. Effective January 1, 2009 and most recently amended, effective January 1, 2022, we adopted stock ownership guidelines that require our executive officers to own directly or indirectly a minimum level of Company common stock, depending upon the executive's position. The executive may satisfy their ownership guidelines with common stock owned directly; beneficially owned in a trust, by a spouse and/or minor child; held in an IRA or 401(k); held in the Automatic Dividend Reinvestment and Direct Stock Purchase Plan; or held in the Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan; as well as time-vesting restricted stock and restricted stock units.

Under the guidelines, our Chief Executive Officer is required to maintain ownership of Company common stock worth five times his base salary. Each of our other executive officers is required to maintain ownership of Company common stock worth three times his or her base salary. The value of the executive's stock holdings and satisfaction of the ownership guidelines are measured as of January 1 each year by reference to the closing price of a share of common stock of the Company on the last trading day of the immediately preceding calendar year. The executives are expected to make continuous progress toward their respective ownership requirements and satisfy the applicable ownership guidelines within five years following the effective date of the amended guidelines or such later date that the executive becomes subject to the guidelines based on the date initially designated by the Board as an executive officer. Until the executive officer has satisfied the stock ownership guidelines, the executive officer must retain one-half of any shares acquired from

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the Company (net of any tax withholdings). Once the guidelines have been satisfied, any future sales of stock are only permitted to the extent that the guidelines continue to be met immediately following such sale.

**Risk Assessment of Compensation Policies and Practices**

In connection with the Compensation Committee's evaluation and review of the Company's policies and practices of compensating its associates, including executives and non-executive associates, as such policies and practices relate to risk management practices and risk-taking, the Compensation Committee has determined that its compensation plans and practices are not likely to have a material adverse effect on the Company.

**COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT**<br>

The Compensation Committee is currently comprised of Messrs. Liollio (Chair), Lane (Vice Chair), Levens, Olinde and Ms. Kent. The Compensation Committee has reviewed and discussed the Compensation Discussion and Analysis (CD&A) required by Item 402(b) of Regulation S-K with executive management. Based on such review and discussion the Compensation Committee recommended to the Board of Directors that the 2025 CD&A be included in this proxy statement and in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for such fiscal year.

Respectfully submitted by the members of the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors:

Constantine S. Liollio (Chair)

Suzette K. Kent

H. Merritt Lane, III (Vice Chair)

Jerry L. Levens

Thomas H. Olinde

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**EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION**<br>

The following table sets forth the cash and other compensation that we paid to our NEOs or that was otherwise earned by our NEOs for their services in all capacities during 2025, 2024, and 2023.

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| | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE** | **SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE** | **SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE** | **SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE** | **SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE** | **SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE** | **SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE** | **SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE** |
| **Name and<br>Principal Position** | **Year** | **Salary<br>($)**<sup>(1)</sup> | **Stock<br>Awards<br>($)**<sup>(2)</sup> | **Non-Equity<br>Incentive Plan<br>Compensation<br>($)**<sup>(3)</sup> | **Change in Pension<br>Value and Nonqualified<br>Deferred Compensation<br>Earnings ($)**<sup>(4)</sup> | **All Other<br>Compensation<br>($)**<sup>(5)</sup> | **Total ($)** |
| John M. Hairston, | 2025 | 1220701 | 2970256 | 1789088 | 201403 | 153293 | 6334741 |
| President and CEO | 2024 | 1196717 | 2339746 | 2060589 | 42779 | 129495 | 5769326 |
|  | 2023 | 1165685 | 2428302 | 1291253 | 150460 | 529568 | 5565268 |
| Michael M. Achary, | 2025 | 630137 | 904050 | 769619 | 97943 | 52066 | 2453815 |
| Chief Financial Officer | 2024 | 593784 | 737922 | 852015 | 89240 | 44035 | 2316996 |
|  | 2023 | 567603 | 641988 | 471559 | 153973 | 43205 | 1878328 |
| D. Shane Loper, | 2025 | 776438 | 1195562 | 1137966 | 204372 | 112537 | 3426875 |
| Chief Operating Officer | 2024 | 727541 | 968747 | 1043941 | 2493 | 101444 | 2844166 |
|  | 2023 | 697603 | 789030 | 579561 | 153914 | 479314 | 2699422 |
| Christopher S. Ziluca, | 2025 | 558836 | 570066 | 443648 | ― | 26548 | 1599098 |
| Chief Credit Officer | 2024 | 535027 | 474901<br><sup>(6)</sup> | 499008 | ― | 24578 | 1533514 |
|  |  |  |  |  |  |  | ― |
| Michael Otero, | 2025 | 493836 | 504437 | 392046 | 82257 | 17732 | 1490308 |
| Chief Risk Officer | 2024 | 468784 | 270536 | 437225 | 28224 | 15270 | 1220039 |
|  |  |  |  |  |  |  | ― |

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(1)Amounts reflect the annual base salaries earned for the applicable year.

(2)Amounts reflect the grant date fair value of restricted stock units (RSUs) and performance stock units (PSUs) granted during the year, calculated in accordance with FASB Topic 718. The grant date fair value of the RSUs is based on the closing price of our common stock on the grant date. The grant date fair value of PSUs granted in 2023 and 2024 were based on achievement of EPS goals is determined based on the expected probability of achieving the goals, and the grant date fair value of PSUs granted based on relative TSR is determined using a Monte Carlo simulation method, as set forth in Note 19 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025. The PSUs granted in 2025 are earned based on the achievement of ROAA, ROATCE and TSR metrics, with the grant date fair value of the PSUs determined based on (i) the expected probability of achieving the performance goals (with respect to the ROAA and ROATCE metrics), (ii) a Monte Carlo simulation method (with respect to the TSR metric), as set forth in Note 19 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025.

With respect to PSUs, amounts included in the table are based on the probable outcome of the performance conditions for the year, assuming achievement of the performance conditions at "target" levels. The grant date value of the PSUs, assuming achievement of performance conditions at the highest level, would be as follows:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **NEO** | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| John M. Hairston | $3268729 | $2998600 | $3290914 |
| Michael M. Achary | $994935 | $811565 | $749175 |
| D. Shane Loper | $1315690 | $1065460 | $920768 |
| Christopher S. Ziluca | $627361 | $522290 |  |
| Michael Otero | $555157 | $297540 |  |

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(3)Amounts reflect the annual cash incentives earned by each NEO for the applicable year, as described in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis above.

(4)The Change in Pension Value and Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Earnings column reflects the aggregate increase in actuarial present value of each of the NEO's accumulated benefits under the Hancock Whitney Corporation Pension Plan. Mr. Ziluca is not eligible to participate in the pension plan as the plan was amended on June 17, 2017 to exclude any individual hired after that date.

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(5)All Other Compensation includes the value of certain perquisites and benefits the Company makes available to its executive officers as shown below.

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name** | **Total<br>Perquisites** <sup>(i)</sup> | **Company Plan<br>Contributions** <sup>(ii)</sup> | **Dividends** <sup>(iii)</sup> | **Total** |
| John M. Hairston | $101771 | $12250 | $39272 | $153293 |
| Michael M. Achary | 25259 | 12250 | 14557 | 52066 |
| D. Shane Loper | 82214 | 12250 | 18073 | 112537 |
| Christopher S. Ziluca | 3057 | 19250 | 4241 | 26548 |
| Michael Otero | 0 | 12175 | 5557 | 17732 |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i)Total perquisites include Company provided auto allowances, professional organization dues, executive physicals, parking, and supplemental long-term disability insurance as well as a housing allowance of $84,000 for Mr. Hairston and $60,000 for Mr. Loper.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii)Company plan contributions include amounts contributed to the Company's Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan and the Hancock Whitney 401(k) Plan.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii)Dividends reflect dividends paid on RSAs and dividend equivalents paid on RSUs.

(6)The Company permits its executives to elect to defer awards received under our long-term incentive program into our Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan. The value of stock awards includes the value of units so deferred and credited under the Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan. The grant date fair value of the long-term incentive awards deferred by Mr. Ziluca for 2024 was $474,501.

The following table below sets forth the individual grants of plan-based awards made to each of our NEOs during 2025.

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| | | | | | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **2025 GRANTS OF PLAN-BASED AWARDS** | **2025 GRANTS OF PLAN-BASED AWARDS** | **2025 GRANTS OF PLAN-BASED AWARDS** | **2025 GRANTS OF PLAN-BASED AWARDS** | **2025 GRANTS OF PLAN-BASED AWARDS** | **2025 GRANTS OF PLAN-BASED AWARDS** | **2025 GRANTS OF PLAN-BASED AWARDS** | **2025 GRANTS OF PLAN-BASED AWARDS** | **2025 GRANTS OF PLAN-BASED AWARDS** | **2025 GRANTS OF PLAN-BASED AWARDS** | **2025 GRANTS OF PLAN-BASED AWARDS** | **2025 GRANTS OF PLAN-BASED AWARDS** |
|  |  |  |  | **Estimated Future Payouts<br>Under Non-Equity Incentive<br>Plan Awards** <sup>(3)</sup> | **Estimated Future Payouts<br>Under Non-Equity Incentive<br>Plan Awards** <sup>(3)</sup> | **Estimated Future Payouts<br>Under Non-Equity Incentive<br>Plan Awards** <sup>(3)</sup> | **Estimated Future Payouts<br>Under Equity Incentive<br>Plan Awards** <sup>(4)</sup> | **Estimated Future Payouts<br>Under Equity Incentive<br>Plan Awards** <sup>(4)</sup> | **Estimated Future Payouts<br>Under Equity Incentive<br>Plan Awards** <sup>(4)</sup> |  |  |
| **Name** | **Award<br>Type** | **Approval Date** | **Grant <br>Date** | **Thres-<br>hold ($)** | **Target<br>($)** | **Maxi-<br>mum ($)** | **Thres-<br>hold (#)** | **Target<br>(#)** | **Maxi-<br>mum<br>(#)** | **All Other <br>Stock <br>Awards: <br>Number <br>of Shares <br>of Stock <br>or Units <br>(#)** | **Grant Date<br> Fair Value<br> of <br>Stock and <br>Option <br>Awards <br>($)**<sup>(5)</sup> |
| John M. Hairston | Annual Cash |  |  | 732421 | 1464842 | 2929683 |  |  |  |  |  |
|  | PSU | 1/29/2025 | 2/28/2025<br><sup>(1)</sup> |  |  |  | 15709 | 31418 | 62836 |  | 1792672 |
|  | RSU | 1/29/2025 | 2/28/2025<br><sup>(2)</sup> |  |  |  |  |  |  | 20946 | 1177584 |
| Michael M. Achary | Annual Cash |  |  | 315068 | 630137 | 1260274 |  |  |  |  |  |
|  | PSU | 1/29/2025 | 2/28/2025<br><sup>(1)</sup> |  |  |  | 4782 | 9563 | 19126 |  | 545647 |
|  | RSU | 1/29/2025 | 2/28/2025<br><sup>(2)</sup> |  |  |  |  |  |  | 6375 | 358403 |
| D. Shane Loper | Annual Cash |  |  | 465863 | 931726 | 1863452 |  |  |  |  |  |
|  | PSU | 1/29/2025 | 2/28/2025<br><sup>(1)</sup> |  |  |  | 6323 | 12646 | 25292 |  | 721571 |
|  | RSU | 1/29/2025 | 2/28/2025<br><sup>(2)</sup> |  |  |  |  |  |  | 8431 | 473991 |
| Christopher S. Ziluca | Annual Cash |  |  | 181622 | 363243 | 726486 |  |  |  |  |  |
|  | PSU | 1/29/2025 | 2/28/2025<br><sup>(1)</sup> |  |  |  | 3015 | 6030 | 12060 |  | 344062 |
|  | RSU | 1/29/2025 | 2/28/2025<br><sup>(2)</sup> |  |  |  |  |  |  | 4020 | 226004 |
| Michael Otero | Annual Cash |  |  | 160497 | 320993 | 641986 |  |  |  |  |  |
|  | PSU | 1/29/2025 | 2/28/2025<br><sup>(1)</sup> |  |  |  | 2668 | 5336 | 10672 |  | 304462 |
|  | RSU | 1/29/2025 | 2/28/2025<br><sup>(2)</sup> |  |  |  |  |  |  | 3557 | 199975 |

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(1)PSUs were approved by the Compensation Committee on January 29, 2025, with a grant date of February 28, 2025. PSUs will vest after a three-year service period based upon actual certified results of relative TSR, relative ROAA and relative ROATCE over a three-year performance period beginning January 1, 2025, ending December 31, 2027. Upon vesting of the award and payment of applicable withholding taxes, the resulting shares will be issued to the participant with no holding period.

(2)RSUs were approved by the Compensation Committee on January 29, 2025, with a grant date of February 28, 2025. The RSUs vest incrementally over three years and upon vesting of the award and payment of applicable withholding taxes, the resulting shares will be issued to the participant with no holding period.

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(3)Reflects threshold, target and maximum payout levels under our annual cash incentive program for 2025. The actual amount of incentive bonus earned by each named executive officer is reported under the Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation column in the Summary Compensation Table. Additional information regarding the design of the annual cash incentive program is included in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis section above.

(4)Represents threshold, target and maximum payout levels under performance share awards granted in 2025. The number of actual shares earned under the PSUs will be based on the achievement of performance goals relating to relative TSR, relative ROAA and relative ROATCE over a three-year performance period, as described in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis section above.

(5)Amounts reflect the grant date fair value of stock awards granted during the year, calculated in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718.

The following table provides information regarding equity awards that are outstanding as of December 31, 2025 for each of our NEOs.

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS AT DECEMBER 31, 2025 | OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS AT DECEMBER 31, 2025 | OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS AT DECEMBER 31, 2025 | OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS AT DECEMBER 31, 2025 | OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS AT DECEMBER 31, 2025 | OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS AT DECEMBER 31, 2025 |
| **Stock Awards** | **Stock Awards** | **Stock Awards** | **Stock Awards** | **Stock Awards** | **Stock Awards** |
| **Name** | **Grant Date** | **Number of Units<br>That Have Not<br>Vested (#)**<sup>(1)</sup> | **Market Value of<br>Units That Have <br>Not Vested ($)**<sup>(2)</sup> | **Equity Incentive Plan<br>Awards: Number of <br>Unearned Units That<br>Have Not Vested (#)**<sup>(3)</sup> | **Equity Incentive Plan<br>Awards: Market or Payout<br>Value of Unearned Units<br>That Have Not Vested ($)**<sup>(2)</sup> |
| John M. Hairston | 2/28/2025 | 20946 | 1333841 |  |  |
|  | 2/28/2025 |  |  | 62836 | 4001396 |
|  | 2/16/2024 | 11817 | 752507 |  |  |
|  | 2/16/2024 |  |  | 82720 | 5267610 |
|  | 2/17/2023 | 5030 | 320310 |  |  |
|  | 2/17/2023 |  |  | 45507 | 2897886 |
| Michael M. Achary | 2/28/2025 | 6375 | 405960 |  |  |
|  | 2/28/2025 |  |  | 19126 | 1217944 |
|  | 2/16/2024 | 4975 | 316808 |  |  |
|  | 2/16/2024 |  |  | 22388 | 1425668 |
|  | 2/17/2023 | 1781 | 113414 |  |  |
|  | 2/17/2023 |  |  | 10360 | 659725 |
| D. Shane Loper | 2/28/2025 | 8431 | 536886 |  |  |
|  | 2/28/2025 |  |  | 25292 | 1610595 |
|  | 2/16/2024 | 6531 | 415894 |  |  |
|  | 2/16/2024 |  |  | 29392 | 1871683 |
|  | 2/17/2023 | 2189 | 139396 |  |  |
|  | 2/17/2023 |  |  | 12732 | 810774 |
| Christopher S. Ziluca | 2/28/2025 | 4020 | 255994 |  |  |
|  | 2/28/2025 |  |  | 12060 | 767981 |
|  | 2/16/2024 | 3202 | 203903 |  |  |
|  | 2/16/2024 |  |  | 14408 | 917501 |
|  | 2/17/2023 | 1324 | 84312 |  |  |
|  | 2/17/2023 |  |  | 7700 | 490336 |
| Michael Otero | 2/28/2025 | 3557 | 226510 |  |  |
|  | 2/28/2025 |  |  | 10672 | 679593 |
|  | 2/16/2024 | 1824 | 116152 |  |  |
|  | 2/16/2024 |  |  | 8208 | 522685 |
|  | 2/17/2023 | 734 | 46741 |  |  |
|  | 2/17/2023 |  |  | 4267 | 271723 |

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(1)The RSUs have a three-year service requirement and vest 33.3% per year. The 2023 and 2024 awards are subject to a two-year post-vest holding period.

(2)Market value is calculated based on the closing price of our common stock on December 31, 2025, the last market day of the fiscal year, of $63.68.

(3)The PSUs have either a two-year performance period (for PSUs earned based on the EPS metric) or a three-year performance period (for PSUs earned based on the relative TSR, relative ROAA and relative ROATCE metrics) and three-year service requirement (all shares earned for the award to vest after three years of service if applicable threshold levels of performance are met). The executives earn between 0% and 200% of the target PSU award based on the Company's achievement of performance criteria over the performance period. The 2023 grant and the 2024 grant are subject to a three-year vesting period with a two-year post vest hold. The 2025 grant is subject to a three-year vesting period.

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The amounts reported for the February 27, 2025 grants of PSUs are reflected as 200% of target performance shares assuming target performance is achieved based on performance as of December 31, 2025 (the last completed fiscal year over which performance is measured; full performance has not yet been achieved as performance period ends December 31, 2027). The amounts reported for the February 16, 2024 grants of PSUs are reflected as 200% of target performance shares assuming target performance is achieved based on performance as of December 31, 2025 (the last completed fiscal year over which performance is measured; full performance has not yet been achieved as performance period ends December 31, 2026). The amounts reported for the February 17, 2023 grants of PSUs reflect 129.24% of target performance shares based on actual performance criteria achieved as of the close of the performance period on December 31, 2025, which was certified by the Compensation Committee on January 28, 2026 and vested on February 1, 2026.

The following table provides information regarding the vesting of restricted and performance stock awards and the exercise of stock options held by our NEOs in 2025.

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **2025 Option Exercises and Stock Vested** | **2025 Option Exercises and Stock Vested** | **2025 Option Exercises and Stock Vested** | **2025 Option Exercises and Stock Vested** | **2025 Option Exercises and Stock Vested** |
|  | **Option Awards** | **Option Awards** | **Stock Awards** | **Stock Awards** |
| **Name** | **Number of Shares<br>Acquired on Exercise (#)** | **Value Realized<br>on Exercise ($)** | **Number of Shares<br>Acquired on Vesting (#)** | **Value Realized<br>on Vesting ($)**<sup>(1)</sup> |
| John M. Hairston | ― | ― | 52750 | 3151285 |
| Michael M. Achary | ― | ― | 14444 | 862885 |
| D. Shane Loper | ― | ― | 17739 | 1059728 |
| Christopher S. Ziluca | ― | ― | 10105 | 603673 |
| Michael Otero | ― | ― | 5382 | 321521 |

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(1)Reflects the fair market value of the shares as of the vesting date, which is defined in our long-term incentive plan as the closing price of our common stock on the day prior to vesting. Shares vested in 2025 are subject to a 2-year post-vest holding period.

The following table provides information regarding our Pension Plan and Retirement Restoration Plan, which provide for payment or other benefits at, following, or in connection with retirement.

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **2025 Pension Benefits** | **2025 Pension Benefits** | **2025 Pension Benefits** | **2025 Pension Benefits** | **2025 Pension Benefits** |
| **Name** | **Plan Name** | **Number of Years of Credited Service (#)** | **Present Value of<br>Accumulated <br>Benefit ($)**<sup>(1)</sup> | **Payments During<br>2024 ($)** |
| John M. Hairston | Hancock Whitney Corporation<br>Pension Plan | 31 | 1276385 | ― |
| Michael M. Achary | Hancock Whitney Corporation<br>Pension Plan | 25 | 1203995 | ― |
| D. Shane Loper | Hancock Whitney Corporation<br>Pension Plan | 35 | 1302290 | ― |
| Christopher S. Ziluca | Hancock Whitney Corporation<br>Pension Plan | ― | ― | ― |
| Michael Otero | Hancock Whitney Corporation<br>Pension Plan | 11 | 384839 | ― |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)Based on Accounting Standards Codification 715-20 assumptions used for disclosure as of December 31, 2025. The present value of the accumulated benefit obligation is determined using the following assumptions: Interest rate 5.36% per annum and the Pre-Commencement: RP-2014 Employee Life Mortality Table (Bottom Quartile) (adjusted for MP-2021) Fully Generational Projection using Scale MP-2021 and Post-Commencement: RP-2014 Annuitant Life Mortality Table (Bottom Quartile) (adjusted for MP-2021) Fully Generational Projection using Scale MP-2021. Assumes the benefit will be paid in the normal form on the later of age 65 and the valuation date.

____________________________

The Hancock Whitney Corporation Pension Plan covers certain eligible associates of the Company upon the completion of one year of service and the attainment of age 21. In 2017, the plan was amended to exclude any individual hired or rehired by the Company after June 30, 2017 from eligibility to participate. Additionally, the amendment provides that the accrual of benefits of each participant whose combined age plus years of service as of January 1, 2018 totals less than 55 will be frozen. Benefits under the plan are determined as the sum of 1% of compensation multiplied by years of service and 0.5% of compensation in excess of a 35-year average of the social security wage base multiplied by years of service. The benefits are determined using base pay, but excluding bonuses and other items of extraordinary compensation. The Internal Revenue Service limits compensation that may be considered for purposes of calculating plan benefits. In 2023, this limit was $330,000. Benefits are payable in the

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form of actuarially-equivalent annuities, following separation from service and attainment of the normal (age 65) or early (age 55 and 10 years of service) retirement age. Early retirement benefits are subject to actuarial reduction.

The following table provides information regarding our Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan, which provides for the deferral of compensation on a basis that is not tax-qualified.

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **2025 NONQUALIFIED DEFERRED COMPENSATION** | **2025 NONQUALIFIED DEFERRED COMPENSATION** | **2025 NONQUALIFIED DEFERRED COMPENSATION** | **2025 NONQUALIFIED DEFERRED COMPENSATION** | **2025 NONQUALIFIED DEFERRED COMPENSATION** | **2025 NONQUALIFIED DEFERRED COMPENSATION** |
| **Name** | **Executive<br>Contributions in <br>2025 ($)**<sup>(1)</sup> | **Registrant Contributions in 2025 ($)**<sup>(1)</sup> | **Aggregate Earnings <br>in 2025 ($)**<sup>(2)</sup> | **Aggregate<br>Withdrawals/<br>Distributions ($)** | **Aggregate Balance at December 31, 2025 ($)**<sup>(3)</sup> |
| John M. Hairston | ― | ― | 3046220 | ― | 21423593 |
| Michael M. Achary | 207595 | ― | 499185 | ― | 5960047 |
| D. Shane Loper | ― | ― | 1157157 | ― | 9359593 |
| Christopher S. Ziluca | 223126 | ― | 124017 | ― | 1083785 |
| Michael Otero | 24659 | ― | 41959 | ― | 307160 |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)The amounts included in the Executive Contributions in 2025 and Registrant Contributions in 2025 are also reported as 2025 compensation in the Summary Compensation Table with the exception of Executive Contributions for Mr. Ziluca of $167,309, which would have been reported as compensation in the Summary Compensation Table for years prior to 2025.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2)Contributions are treated as if invested in one or more investment vehicles selected by the participant. The annual rate of return for each of these funds for fiscal year 2025 was as follows:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **<u>Fund</u>** | **<u>One Year Total Return</u>** |
| Model Portfolio – Conservative | 9.50% |
| Model Portfolio – Moderate/Conservative | 12.48% |
| Model Portfolio – Moderate | 14.85% |
| Model Portfolio – Moderate/Aggressive | 16.88% |
| Model Portfolio – Aggressive | 18.78% |
| Fidelity VIP Government Money Mkt Svc | 4.07% |
| T. Rowe Price Limited-Term Bond | 5.71% |
| Fidelity VIP Investment Grade Bond Svc | 7.14% |
| Lvip American Century Inflation Protection Std II | 6.60% |
| PIMCO VIT Global Bond Opportunities (Unhedged) Admin | 12.75% |
| Brighthouse II MFS Value A | 13.29% |
| Fidelity VIP Index 500 Initial | 17.78% |
| Brighthouse II Jennison Growth A | 14.04% |
| LVIP American Century Mid Cap Value Std II | 8.99% |
| Empower T. Rowe Price Mid Cap Growth Inv | 2.99% |
| Normura VIP Small Cap Value Series Std | 8.16% |
| Vanguard VIF Small Company Growth | 6.11% |
| Empower International Value Inv | 39.10% |
| Invesco VI EQV International Equity I | 16.50% |
| Hancock Whitney Corporation Common Stock | 20.04% |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3)The following amounts included in the Aggregate Balance at December 31, 2025 were previously reported as compensation to the NEOs in the Summary Compensation Table for years prior to 2024: Mr. Hairston, $9,662,444; Mr. Achary, $3,472,442; Mr. Loper, $4,048,792; Mr. Otero, $141,517 (had he been an NEO prior to 2024); and Mr. Ziluca, $659,651 (had he been an NEO prior to 2024).

_____________________________

Under our Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan, participants may elect a maximum deferral of 80% of base salary, 80% of annual incentive bonus, and 100% of annual long-term incentive awards (in the form of performance stock units and restricted stock units). The minimum deferral for base salary and annual incentive bonus amounts is $3,000 in the aggregate and 25% for long-term incentive awards.

Company contributions are made to the Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan at the discretion of the Compensation Committee. Each year, a 401(k) restoration matching contribution may be made to participant accounts. Unless otherwise provided by the Compensation Committee, a participant shall be vested in his Company restoration matching account at

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the time or times and in the amounts determined in accordance with the provisions of the Hancock Whitney 401(k) Plan. The Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan also allows for supplemental contributions to be made to participants at the discretion of the Compensation Committee (referred to as SERP contributions). The factors taken into consideration for these contributions are current total cash compensation and a reasonable estimate of final pay at retirement, years of service while eligible for supplemental contributions, remaining with the Company until age 65, a reasonable estimate of growth in the value of the supplemental contribution account investments over the years prior to retirement, and the growth of the supplemental contribution account based on actual investment opportunities deemed to be credited to the supplemental contribution account. The participant will vest in the supplemental contribution account on a 10-year graded vesting schedule beginning at age 51 and ending at age 60. Each participant will be 100% vested at age 60.

Participants elect the investment options in which their deferrals are deemed to be invested from a group of measurement funds made available under the plan by the Compensation Committee. The participants may allocate and reallocate the investments of their deferral accounts among such investment options on a daily basis subject to certain limitations. Earnings or losses are allocated to the participant's accounts under the plan on a daily basis based on the performance, positive or negative, of each specific measurement fund in which the participant's accounts are deemed to be invested. In the event no investment election is made by a participant, the participant's accounts under the plan are deemed to be invested in the lowest-risk measurement fund available under the plan and credited or debited with the earnings of such fund, until the participant elects otherwise. Only deferrals of a participant's bonus may be deemed invested in the common stock measurement fund available under the plan. Any amounts deemed invested in the common stock measurement fund and any deferrals of restricted units or performance units may not be reallocated to any other investment measurement fund under the plan. Incentive units (excluding unvested performance units) and amounts deemed invested in the common stock measurement fund are credited with dividend equivalent units as of each dividend payment date and deemed reinvested in additional common stock units based on the fair market value of the Company's stock on the dividend payment date. If service and performance conditions related to restricted or performance units are not met, the unit credits will be reversed.

Payments from the plan are payable upon the earlier of retirement, termination of employment, disability, death, or scheduled distribution (payment during a specified year elected by the participant). Distributions due to retirement may begin immediately or up to five years after retirement and may be made in a lump sum or in annual installments from two to 15 years. The time and method of retirement distributions are elected by each participant and, effective for 2015 and thereafter, may be separately elected on an annual basis with respect to amounts deferred and/or contributed on behalf of the participant for such year. Distributions due to termination of employment of all amounts deferred or contributed to the plan on behalf of the participant prior to 2015 shall be distributed in a lump sum. Effective 2015 and thereafter, each participant may separately elect on an annual basis the method in which amounts deferred or contributed on such participant's behalf for such year will be distributed in the event of a termination of employment. Such distributions may be made in a lump sum or in annual installments over a period not to exceed three years.

Distributions due to death or disability and scheduled distributions may only be made in a lump sum. Scheduled distributions may not be made with respect to any long-term awards deferred under the plan. Distributions of incentive units and of funds held in the common stock measurement fund may only be made in common stock of the Company.

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**POTENTIAL PAYMENTS UPON TERMINATION OR CHANGE IN CONTROL**<br>

The following table sets forth the amounts that would have been payable to each of our NEOs under the various scenarios for termination of employment or a change in control (CIC) in the Company had such scenarios occurred on December 31, 2025. The price per share of Company stock that is used for purposes of the table is $63.68, the closing market price as of December 31, 2025. The actual amounts to be paid can only be determined at the time of such executive's separation from the Company or the change in control. In addition to the amounts reflected in the table, upon termination of employment each of the NEOs would also receive benefits under the Hancock Whitney Corporation Pension Plan, as described above, as well as benefits under the Hancock Whitney 401(k) Plan. Finally, the receipt of many of the payments and benefits listed in the table below are contingent upon the executive complying with certain covenants, which are described below.

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Executive Benefits and<br>Payments Upon Termination** | **Voluntary or Involuntary Without Cause** | **For <br>Cause** | **CIC Only** | **Involuntary or<br>For Good<br>Reason Following <br>CIC** | **Death or Disability** |
| **John M. Hairston,<br>President and Chief Executive Officer** |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Severance Benefit | ― | ― | ― | 9648310<br> <sup>(3)</sup> | ― |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Vesting of Long Term Incentives: RSUs and PSUs | 8381972<br> <sup>(1)</sup> | ― | 6182806<br> <sup>(2)</sup> | 8769920<br> <sup>(4)</sup> | 7617414<br> <sup>(5)</sup> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Vesting of Nonqualified Deferred Compensation <sup>(6)</sup> | ― | ― | ― | ― | ― |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Medical Insurance | ― | ― | ― | 54072 | ― |
| **TOTAL** | **8381972** | **―** | **6182806** | **18472302** | **7617414** |
| **Michael M. Achary, <br>Chief Financial Officer** |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Severance Benefit | ― | ― | ― | 2805157<br> <sup>(3)</sup> | ― |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Vesting of Long Term Incentives: RSUs and PSUs | 2265508<br> <sup>(1)</sup> | ― | 1552242<br> <sup>(2)</sup> | 2442878<br> <sup>(4)</sup> | 2154985<br> <sup>(5)</sup> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Vesting of Nonqualified Deferred Compensation <sup>(6)</sup> | ― | ― | ― | ― | ― |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Medical Insurance | ― | ― | ― | 54072 | ― |
| **TOTAL** | **2265508** | **―** | **1552242** | **5302108** | **2154985** |
| **D. Shane Loper, <br>Chief Operating Officer** |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Severance Benefit | ― | ― | ― | 3438738<br> <sup>(3)</sup> | ― |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Vesting of Long Term Incentives: RSUs and PSUs | 2915893<br> <sup>(1)</sup> | ― | 1984049<br> <sup>(2)</sup> | 3145597<br> <sup>(4)</sup> | 2770968<br> <sup>(5)</sup> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Vesting of Nonqualified Deferred Compensation <sup>(6)</sup> | ― | ― | 553105 | 553105 | 553105 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Medical Insurance | ― | ― | ― | 54072 | ― |
| **TOTAL** | **2915893** | **―** | **2537155** | **7191512** | **3324073** |
| **Christopher S. Ziluca,<br>Chief Credit Officer** |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Severance Benefit | ― | ― | ― | 2058285<br> <sup>(3)</sup> | ― |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Vesting of Long Term Incentives: RSUs and PSUs | ― | ― | 1062897<br> <sup>(2)</sup> | 1644652<br> <sup>(4)</sup> | 1455107<br> <sup>(5)</sup> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Vesting of Nonqualified Deferred Compensation <sup>(6)</sup> | ― | ― | ― | ― | ― |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Medical Insurance | ― | ― | ― | 17604 | ― |
| **TOTAL** | **―** | **―** | **1062897** | **3720541** | **1455107** |
| **Michael Otero,<br>Chief Risk Officer** |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Severance Benefit | ― | ― | ― | 1778935<br> <sup>(3)</sup> | ― |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Vesting of Long Term Incentives: RSUs and PSUs | 1164933<br> <sup>(1)</sup> | ― | 598113<br> <sup>(2)</sup> | 1010880<br> <sup>(4)</sup> | 940098<br> <sup>(5)</sup> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Vesting of Nonqualified Deferred Compensation <sup>(6)</sup> | ― | ― | ― | ― | ― |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Medical Insurance | ― | ― | ― | 54072 | ― |
| **TOTAL** | **1164933** | **―** | **598113** | **2843886** | **940098** |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)Messrs. Hairston, Achary, Loper, and Otero meet all of the conditions of retirement as of December 31, 2025 for the RSUs and PSUs granted in 2023, 2024 and 2025. Amounts presented include a pro rata payout assuming maximum performance is achieved for PSUs granted in 2025 resulting in 200% of target shares awarded, maximum target performance is achieved for PSUs granted in 2024 resulting in 200% of target shares awarded, and actual performance is achieved for PSUs granted in 2023 resulting in 129.24% of target shares awarded and a pro rata vesting of the RSUs granted in 2025, 2024 and 2023 and related cash dividend equivalents accrued on those RSUs that otherwise would vest on February 1, 2026 assuming continued service through the vesting date.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2)Amounts reported reflect a pro rata payout assuming the maximum performance is achieved for PSUs granted in 2024 (if units are not assumed by the surviving entity or otherwise equitably converted or substituted) and actual performance of 129.24% is achieved for PSUs granted in 2023.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3)Reflects a lump-sum payment equal to three (in the case of Mr. Hairston) or two (in the case of Messrs. Achary, Loper, Ziluca, and Otero) times base salary and average annual bonus for the three most recent fiscal years.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4)Amounts reported reflect a pro rata payout assuming the maximum performance is achieved for PSUs granted in 2024 and actual performance of 129.24% is achieved for PSUs granted in 2023 and immediate vesting of all outstanding RSAs and RSUs including cash dividend equivalents accrued on those RSUs.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5)Amounts reported reflect a pro rata payout assuming the target number of PSUs granted in 2025 and 2024 will be earned during the performance period or paid out upon disability within the performance period and a pro-rata payout of actual performance achieved for PSUs granted in 2023 resulting in 129.24% of target shares awarded and immediate vesting of all outstanding RSUs including related cash dividend equivalents accrued on those RSUs.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6)The total balance under the Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan as of December 31, 2025 is shown in the Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Table. This table includes only the unvested amount that would become vested upon the occurrence of the specified event under the terms of the plan.

The following summarizes the payment and benefits the NEOs would be entitled to under the various termination and change in control scenarios, which are reflected in the table above.

Voluntary Termination (Including Retirement) & Involuntary Termination without Cause

In the event of a voluntary termination (including retirement) and involuntary termination without cause of an NEO, such executive would be entitled to receive any unpaid amounts previously earned during his term of employment.

In the event an NEO meets all conditions for retirement as set forth within the terms of the respective award agreement at the time of termination, he would also be entitled to the following:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Vesting of a percentage of the PSUs granted in 2024 and 2025 that are actually earned based on Company performance pro-rated for the portion of the vesting period worked by the executive prior to termination. Eleven-thirty sixths of the 2025 PSUs will vest as the executive has worked 11 months of the 36-month vesting period as of December 31, 2025. Twenty three-thirty sixths of the 2024 PSUs will vest as the executive has worked 23 months of the 36-month vesting period as of December 31, 2025. A portion of the 2023 PSUs will vest at 129.24% as the executive has completed the performance period as of December 31, 2025; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Vesting of a percentage of outstanding RSUs granted in 2023, 2024 and 2025 based on the number of months elapsed since the most recent vesting date or grant date if granted within the last 12 months. Any cash dividend equivalents accrued on the outstanding RSUs will be paid in cash upon vesting of the related shares.

For Cause Termination

In the event of a for cause termination of a NEO, such executive would only be entitled to receive any unpaid amounts previously earned during his term of employment.

Change in Control Only

In the event of a change in control (defined below) only, NEOs would be entitled to the following:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•RSUs vest only if the Board of Directors exercises its discretion to vest such awards as a result of the post-transaction surviving entity choosing not to assume any obligations relating to such awards and choosing not to convert such awards into equivalent rights with respect to equity in the post-transaction surviving entity. If these awards were to be vested, the amounts reported would be as follows: Hairston ($2,406,658), Achary ($836,182), Loper ($1,092,176); Ziluca ($544,209); and Otero ($389,403); and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•A pro-rata portion of the PSUs granted in 2024 would vest under the assumption that the units are not assumed by the surviving entity or otherwise equitable converted or substituted; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Immediate vesting of any unvested amounts under the Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan, but only to the extent such vesting does not cause the excise tax provisions of Code Section 4999 to be effective with respect to the executive.

One or more of the benefits listed above will be reduced to the extent necessary to avoid excise taxes under Code Section 4999 if such reduction results in higher after-tax benefits to the executives than if such benefits are not reduced.

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Involuntary Termination or Termination for Good Reason following Change in Control

In the event of an involuntary termination (including disability), or a termination for good reason (defined below) of a NEO within two years following a change in control (defined below), in addition to any unpaid amounts previously earned during the NEO's term of employment, the NEO would be entitled to the following:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Immediate vesting (at the time of the change in control) of amounts indicated above under Change in Control Only, with subsequent vesting (at the time of the executive's disability or termination of employment) of any RSUs that did not vest at the time of the change in control;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Vesting of a percentage of the PSUs granted in 2025 and 2024 that are actually earned based on Company performance. The 2024 PSUs have a three-year vesting period with half of the award based on achievement of adjusted EPS over a two-year performance period and half of the awards based on relative TSR over a three-year performance period. If the CIC occurs during the performance period (at least one year after the start of the performance period), the vested percentage is based on the actual performance results for the portion of the performance period ending on the date of the CIC pro-rated based on the number of whole months elapsed between the grant date and the CIC and the denominator of which is 36. 129.24% of the 2023 PSUs will vest as the performance period is complete with above target performance achieved as of December 31, 2025;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Mr. Hairston would be entitled to a lump-sum payment equal to three times his base salary and average annual bonus (for the three most recent fiscal years); and Messrs. Achary, Loper, Ziluca, and Otero would be entitled to a lump-sum payment equal to two times their base salary and average annual bonus (for the three most recent fiscal years); and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Mr. Hairston would be entitled to up to 36 months of medical insurance continuation. Messrs. Achary, Loper, Ziluca, and Otero would be entitled to up to 24 months of medical insurance continuation. Coverage would be provided at the same level of benefits as in effect at the time of the executive's disability or termination of employment, and on the same cost sharing basis as in effect for active executives in comparable positions. Coverage would cease upon the executive becoming eligible for similar coverage provided by another employer.

One or more of the benefits listed above will be reduced to the extent necessary to avoid excise taxes under Code Section 4999 if such reduction results in higher after-tax benefits to the executives than if such benefits are not reduced.

Death or Disability

In the event of the death or disability of a NEO, in addition to any unpaid amounts previously earned during the NEO's term of employment, the NEO would be entitled to the following:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Vesting of the PSUs granted in 2023 that are actually earned based on Company performance and a percentage of the target number of PSUs granted in 2025 and 2024. For the 2025, 2024 and 2023 PSUs, the vested percentage is based on the portion of the vesting period worked by the executive prior to death or becoming disabled. Eleven-thirty sixths of the 2025 PSUs will vest as the executive has worked 11 months of the 36-month vesting period as of December 31, 2025. Twenty-three thirty sixths of the 2024 PSUs will vest as the executive has worked 35 months of the 36-month vesting period as of December 31, 2025;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Immediate vesting of all RSAs and RSUs including accrued cash dividends;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Immediate vesting of any unvested amounts under the Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Upon disability, a monthly disability benefit of $7,500 for Messrs. Hairston, Achary and Loper to be paid by the contracted insurance carrier rather than by the Company; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•Upon death, beneficiaries of the deceased executive would be entitled to a $25,000 death benefit to be paid by the contracted insurance carrier rather than by the Company.

Definition of Change in Control

Generally, a change in control shall be deemed to have occurred upon the happening of any of the following events as to the Company:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The acquisition by any one person, or by more than one person acting as a group, of ownership of stock that, together with stock held by such person or group, constitutes more than 50% of the total fair market value or total voting power of the stock of the Company;

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The acquisition by any one person, or by more than one person acting as a group, during the 12-month period ending on the date of the most recent acquisition, of ownership of stock possessing 50% or more of the total voting power of the stock of the Company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The replacement during any 12-month period of a majority of the members of the Board of the Company by directors whose appointment or election is not endorsed by a majority of the members of such Board before the date of such appointment or election; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•The acquisition by any one person, or by more than one person acting as a group, during the 12-month period ending on the date of the most recent acquisition, of assets of the Company having a total gross fair market value of more than 50% of the total gross fair market value of all of the assets of the Company immediately prior to such acquisition or acquisitions.

For purposes of the above, "persons acting as a group" shall have the meaning as in Treasury Regulations Section 1.409A-3(i)(5)(v)(B).

Definition of Good Reason

"Good Reason" shall generally mean any of the following occurring without the executive's consent:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•a material diminution in the executive's position, authority, duties or responsibilities from those which the executive held immediately prior to the effective date of the change in control;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•requiring the executive to be based at any office which is a material change from the geographic location of the office at which the executive was employed immediately prior to the change in control;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•a material diminution in the budget over which the executive retains authority;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•a material diminution in the executive's annual base salary; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•any other action or inaction that constitutes a material breach by the Company of any agreement pursuant to which the executive performs services for the Company.

Notwithstanding the preceding, however, none of such actions shall constitute "Good Reason" unless (1) the executive provides the Company with notice of the existence of such condition within 90 days of the initial existence thereof and a period of at least 30 days following such notice within which to remedy such condition, and (2) the executive terminates employment within two years of the initial existence of such condition.

Conditions Applicable to Receipt of Payments and Benefits

All payments and benefits to or on behalf of the NEOs (other than accelerated vesting of Long-Term Incentives and Nonqualified Deferred Compensation) in the event of disability, involuntary termination or termination for good reason upon a change in control are contingent upon such executives complying with confidentiality, non-solicitation and non-disparagement covenants during their terms of employment and for two years thereafter.

**CEO Pay Ratio**

We believe executive pay must be internally consistent and equitable to motivate our associates to create shareholder value. Our CEO to median associate pay ratio is calculated in accordance with SEC requirements pursuant to Item 402(u) of Regulation S-K. We identified the median associate by examining the 2025 W-2 Box 5 Wages (Medicare Wages and Tips) for all individuals, excluding our CEO, who were employed by us on December 31, 2025, the last day of our payroll year. We included all associates, whether employed on a full-time, part-time, or on call basis. We did not make any assumptions, adjustments, or estimates with respect to W-2 Box 5 Wages, and we did not annualize the compensation for any associates that were not employed by us for all of 2025. We believe the use of W-2 Box 5 Wages for all associates is a consistently applied compensation measure.

After identifying the median associate, we calculated annual total compensation for such associate using the same methodology we use for our named executive officers as set forth in the 2025 Summary Compensation Table above. The total annual compensation of our median associate was $71,697. The total annual compensation of our CEO was $6,176,116. Accordingly, the ratio of CEO pay to median associate pay was approximately 87:1.

**Pay Versus Performance**

Background

Item 402(v) of the SEC's Regulation S-K, which was mandated by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010, requires disclosure of information that demonstrates the relationship between executive compensation actually paid (referred to herein as "CAP") and the financial performance of the issuer.

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| | | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **PAY VERSUS PERFORMANCE** | **PAY VERSUS PERFORMANCE** | **PAY VERSUS PERFORMANCE** | **PAY VERSUS PERFORMANCE** | **PAY VERSUS PERFORMANCE** | **PAY VERSUS PERFORMANCE** | **PAY VERSUS PERFORMANCE** | **PAY VERSUS PERFORMANCE** | **PAY VERSUS PERFORMANCE** |
|  |  |  |  |  | **Value of Initial Fixed <br>$100 Investment Based on:** | **Value of Initial Fixed <br>$100 Investment Based on:** |  |  |
| **Year** | **Summary <br>Compensation <br>Table Total for <br>CEO ($)** | **Compensation <br>Actually Paid to <br>CEO ($)** <sup>(2)(3)</sup> | **Average Summary <br>Compensation <br>Table Total for Non-<br>CEO NEOs ($)** <sup>(1)</sup> | **Average Summary<br>Compensation <br>Actually Paid to Non-CEO NEOs ($)** <sup>(2)(3)</sup> | **Total <br>Shareholder <br>Return** | **Peer Group <br>Total <br>Shareholder <br>Return** <sup>(4)</sup> | **Net <br>Income<br>(in thousands)** | Adjusted EPS <sup>(5)</sup> |
| **(a)** | **(b)** | **(c)** | **(d)** | **(e)** | **(f)** | **(g)** | **(h)** | **(i)** |
| 2025 | $6334741 | $10017400 | $2242524 | $3047707 | $213.75 | $152.71 | $486073 | $5.72 |
| 2024 | $5769326 | $8481165 | $1978679 | $2589125 | $143.82 | $130.90 | $460815 | $5.31 |
| 2023 | $5565268 | $5097193 | $1950896 | $1839444 | $123.90 | $115.63 | $392602 | $5.18 |
| 2022 | $6660310 | $8160975 | $2291358 | $2727056 | $120.08 | $116.10 | $524089 | $5.98 |
| 2021 | $5938806 | $9101298 | $2210600 | $3127514 | $121.57 | $124.74 | $463215 | $5.53 |

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(1)Non-CEO NEOs included Mr. Achary, Mr. Loper, Mr. Ziluca, and Mr. Otero for 2025 and 2024 and Mr. Achary, Mr. Loper, Mr. Exnicios, and Mr. Knight for 2023, 2022, and 2021.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2)The dollar amounts reported in columns (c) and (e) represent the amount of "compensation actually paid," or CAP, to the CEO and Other Non-CEO NEOs, respectively, as computed in accordance with Item 402(v) of Regulation S-K. The dollar amounts do not reflect the actual amount of compensation earned by or paid to the CEO or other NEOs, respectively, during the applicable year.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3)The table below sets forth the calculation of CAP.

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| | | | | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **CEO** | **CEO** | **CEO** | **CEO** | **CEO** | **Average of Non-CEO NEOs** | **Average of Non-CEO NEOs** | **Average of Non-CEO NEOs** | **Average of Non-CEO NEOs** | **Average of Non-CEO NEOs** |
|  | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** | **2022** | **2021** | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** | **2022** | **2021** |
| Total Compensation as Reported in the "Total" column of the SCT | $6334741 | $5769326 | $5565268 | $6660310 | $5938806 | $2242524 | $1978679 | $1950896 | $2291358 | $2210600 |
| Deduction for Grant Date Fair Values of Stock Awards Granted in the Year as Reported in the "Stock Awards" column of the SCT | 2970256 | 2339746 | 2428302 | 2327705 | 2382878 | 793529 | 613027 | 647238 | 618057 | 711288 |
| Increase for fair value as of December 31 of each applicable year of all stock awards granted during that year that are outstanding and unvested as of such date | 3638242 | 3414897 | 2032615 | 2618488 | 4434765 | 971986 | 879322 | 553326 | 681623 | 1274104 |
| Increase for Fair Value of Awards Granted During the Year that Vest During the Year | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Increase (Deduction) for change in fair value from December 31 of the prior year to December 31 of the applicable year of any awards granted in a prior year that are outstanding and unvested as of December 31 of the applicable year | 2717772 | 301250 | (58458) | 1058257 | 909106 | 581548 | 65097 | (9211) | 287388 | 257209 |
| Increase (Deduction) for change in fair value from December 31 of the prior year to the vesting date of any awards granted in any prior year as to which all vesting conditions were satisfied during the applicable year | 403942 | 1296020 | 63304 | 98425 | 174504 | 81213 | 254941 | 22692 | 34633 | 69782 |
| Deduction for fair value as of December 31 of the prior year of any awards granted in any prior year as to which vesting conditions failed to be met during the applicable year | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Deduction for changes in the actuarial present value of accumulated pension benefits and earnings on non-qualified deferred compensation plans as reported in the "Change in Pension Value and Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Earnings" of the SCT | 201403 | 42779 | 150460 | - | 33171 | 96143 | 29989 | 95777 | - | 29156 |
| Increase for actuarially determined service cost and prior service cost for services related to defined benefit pension plans during the applicable year | 94362 | 82197 | 73225 | 53200 | 60166 | 60108 | 54102 | 64756 | 50110 | 56263 |
| Compensation Actually Paid | 10017400 | 8481165 | 5097193 | 8160975 | 9101298 | 3047707 | 2589125 | 1839444 | 2727056 | 3127514 |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No amounts were added to reflect dividends or other earnings paid on stock awards because accrued dividends

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;are included in the stock award fair value calculations and therefore are included in total compensation for such

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;year.

For purposes of the foregoing, the fair value of the stock awards at all applicable dates was calculated using the same methodology (including applicable assumptions) as used to account for share-based payments in the Company's financial statements. The assumptions used in calculating the fair value of awards at the applicable dates did not differ in any material respect from the assumptions used to calculate the grant date fair value of the

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awards as reported in the Summary Compensation Table for the applicable year, except that (i) the fair value calculations of the PSUs subject to the EPS metric which were granted February 16, 2024, assumed a payout of 159.3%, as of December 31, 2025 and 136%, as of December 31, 2024; the PSUs subject to the EPS metric which were granted February 17, 2023, assumed a payout at 65% as of December 31, 2025 and 65% as of December 31, 2024 and 58% as of December 31, 2023, and the PSUs subject to the EPS metric which were granted February 18, 2022, assumed a payout at 122% as of December 31, 2024, 122% as of December 31, 2023 and 165% as of December 31, 2022, respectively, and the PSUs subject to the EPS metric which were granted February 15, 2021, assumed a payout at 200% as of December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, the PSUs subject to the EPS metric which were granted January 2, 2020 assumed a payout at 0% as of December 31, 2022, 2021, and 2020, respectively, the PSUs subject to the EPS metric which were granted January 2, 2018 assumed a payout of 0% as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively; (ii) the share price used to determine fair value as of December 31, 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022 and 2021 differed, in some cases materially, from the share price used to determine the grant date fair values; and (iii) for awards subject to the TSR metric, the assumptions used in the Monte Carlo calculation to determine the fair value as of December 31, 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022 and 2021 and for awards subject to the ROAA and ROATCE metrics, the assumptions used in the Monte Carlo calculation to determine the fair value as of December 31, 2025 differed, in some cases materially, from the assumptions used in the Monte Carlo calculation used to determine the grant date fair values. For a discussion of the assumptions used to estimate the fair value of stock awards, please refer to the following section of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025: "Share-Based Payment Arrangements" in Note 19 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4)We selected the KBW Regional Banking Index (referred to herein as the "Regional Banking Index") as our peer group for purposes of this disclosure, which index is comprised of approximately 50 companies categorized as primarily engaged in U.S. regional banking activities. The Regional Banking Index also is the same performance peer group selected by the Compensation Committee for determining the achievement of TSR, ROAA and ROATCE targets for PSUs. See "Compensation Discussion and Analysis—Elements of Our Compensation" for additional information.

(5)Adjusted EPS is a non-GAAP financial measure. See "Appendix A—Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures" for additional information.

Relationship between Compensation Paid and Company Performance

*Total Shareholder Return*

The graph below presents, for the cumulative period from January 1, 2021 – December 31, 2025, the relationship between the CAP to our CEO and the average CAP to our other NEOs and each of Company's TSR and the TSR of the Regional Banking Index.

![img20590551_21.gif](img20590551_21.gif)

As demonstrated by the graph above, CAP to our CEO and the average CAP to our other NEOs is aligned with Company's TSR as well as the TSR of the Regional Banking Index. Company's TSR increased by 113.75% over the reporting period (50.54% in 2021, -1.23% in 2022, 3.18% in 2023, 16.08% in 2024 and 20.02% in 2025), outperforming the Regional Banking Index by 61.04% over the reporting period (13.90% in 2021, 5.70% in 2022, 3.58% in 2023, 2.87% in 2024 and 13.52% in 2025). During the reporting period, CAP to the CEO increased 10% in the aggregate, and average CAP to the other NEOs decreased 3% in the aggregate. CAP to the CEO and to the other NEOs was highest among the

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reporting periods when Company achieved its highest year-end closing stock price in 2025, reflecting the high proportion of variable pay at risk for the CEO and the other NEOs. Conversely, CAP to the CEO and the other NEOs was lowest in 2023. 50% of the PSUs awarded in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024 vest based on the Company's relative TSR performance. See "Compensation Discussion & Analysis—Elements of Our Compensation" for additional information.

*Net Income*

The graph below presents, for each of the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022 and 2021, the relationship between the CAP to our CEO and the average CAP to our other NEOs and the Company's net income.

![img20590551_22.gif](img20590551_22.gif)

As demonstrated by the graph above, CAP to our CEO and to the other NEOs is aligned with Company's Net Income. Net Income increased by 5% over the reporting period. During the reporting period, CAP to the CEO increased 10% in the aggregate, and average CAP to the other NEOs decreased 3% in the aggregate. The Compensation Committee did not use net income as a distinct metric for purposes of determining or paying compensation during 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022 or 2021.

*Adjusted EPS*

The graph below presents, for each of the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022 and 2021, the relationship between the CAP to our CEO and the average CAP to our other NEOs and the Company's Adjusted EPS.

![img20590551_23.gif](img20590551_23.gif)

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As demonstrated by the graph above, CAP to our CEO and to the other NEOs is aligned with Company's Adjusted EPS. Adjusted EPS increased by 3% over the reporting period. During the reporting period, CAP to the CEO increased 10% in the aggregate, and average CAP to the other NEOs decreased 3% in the aggregate. For 2024, 2023, 2022 and 2021, 50% of the annual cash incentive and 50% of the PSUs awarded were dependent on achievement of Adjusted EPS goals. For 2025, 40% of the annual cash incentive awarded was dependent on the achievement of Adjusted EPS goals. See "Compensation Discussion & Analysis – Elements of Our Compensation" for additional information.

*List of Most Important Financial Measures*

The following table lists the most important financial performance measures used in 2025 to link CAP to our CEO and our other NEOs to Company's performance. The financial performance measures and the non-financial performance measure are not ranked in order of importance. See "Compensation Discussion & Analysis – 2025 Compensation Structure and Design" for applicable definitions of each metric and a discussion of the application of these measures in determining the compensation of our CEO and our other NEOs.

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| |
|:---|
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**Performance Metric** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Adjusted EPS<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;Financial |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Relative TSR <sup>(1)</sup><br> &nbsp;&nbsp;Financial |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Adjusted Pre Provision Net Revenue<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;Financial |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial Criticized Loans to Total Commercial Loans<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;Financial |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Non-Performing Loans to Total Loans<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;Financial |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)Relative TSR for compensation purposes is calculated using the same peer group described above under "Pay Versus Performance Table." See "Compensation Discussion and Analysis – Elements of Our Compensation" for additional information.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) **PROPOSAL NO. 2**<br>**ADVISORY VOTE ON COMPENSATION OF NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS**<br>

Pursuant to Section 14A of the Securities Exchange Act, as amended, we are seeking shareholder approval, on an advisory basis, of the compensation of our NEOs as disclosed in this proxy statement pursuant to SEC rules (the say-on-pay proposal). In your consideration of how to vote on this proposal, we encourage you to review all of the relevant information in this proxy statement – our Compensation Discussion and Analysis (including its executive summary), the compensation tables, and the accompanying narrative disclosures and footnotes regarding our executive compensation program. Shareholders are asked to vote, on an advisory basis, to approve the following resolution:

RESOLVED, that the compensation paid to the named executive officers as disclosed in the proxy statement for the Company's 2026 annual meeting of shareholders pursuant to Item 402 of Regulation S-K of the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Compensation Discussion and Analysis, compensation tables and narrative discussion, is hereby APPROVED.

We understand that executive compensation is an important matter for our shareholders. Our core executive compensation philosophy and practice continue to be based on pay for performance, and we believe that our compensation program is strongly aligned with the long-term interests of our shareholders.

While this say-on-pay proposal is advisory only and the voting results are not binding, our Compensation Committee and Board will consider the outcome of the vote when making future compensation decisions for our named executive officers.

We invite shareholders who wish to communicate with our Board on executive compensation or any other matters to contact us as provided under "Shareholder Communications" below.

**THE BOARD UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS A VOTE "FOR" THE APPROVAL, ON AN ADVISORY BASIS, OF THE COMPENSATION OF THE NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AS DESCRIBED IN THIS PROXY STATEMENT.**

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**TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PERSONS**<br>

The Company, through the Bank, has made, and expects to make in the future, loans in the ordinary course of business to insiders of the Company and the Bank, and their related interests. The Bank has made such loans on substantially the same terms, including interest rates and collateral, as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with persons not related to the Company. At the time made, no such loans involved more than the normal risk of repayment or presented other unfavorable features that require disclosure in the proxy statement.

Our Corporate Governance Guidelines require that we review all transactions that may be required to be disclosed pursuant to Item 404 of SEC Regulation S-K (Related Party Transactions) for potential conflicts of interest. Generally, the Audit Committee will be responsible for reviewing and approving all Related Party Transactions.

The Company provides limited brokerage services, investment advisory services and provides access to annuities and insurance products through its subsidiary Hancock Whitney Investment Services, Inc. (HWIS). It conducts virtually all of its other business activities through the Bank or through the Bank's subsidiaries, and those business activities primarily consist of offering deposit accounts, making loans, and engaging in trust business. While Section 402 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 generally prohibits a public company from extending or renewing credit or arranging the extension or renewal of credit to an officer or director, this prohibition does not apply to loans that are subject to the insider lending restrictions of the Federal Reserve Board's Regulation O. Accordingly, we permit our directors and executive officers, their family members and their related interests, to establish and maintain banking and business relationships in the ordinary course of business with the Bank and through HWIS, subject to the restrictions of Regulation O. With respect to lending activities, the Bank has a special written policy governing affiliate and insider lending transactions.

In order to promote compliance with applicable laws, regulations and rules pertaining to insider lending transactions discussed above, the Company has appointed an officer (the Regulation O Monitoring Officer) to assist Bank associates in identifying and reviewing pertinent transactions with identified insiders. The Regulation O Monitoring Officer annually receives lists of all directors and executive officers of the Company and the Bank from our Corporate Secretary, as well as a list of our principal shareholders, if any. The information collected from directors and designated executive officers includes the names of these individuals and their family members, as well as the names of their related interests. This information is compiled based on questionnaires our directors and designated executive officers submit to the Corporate Secretary. Information available from public databases and the Bank's records supplement the data. The Bank's Regulation O Monitoring Officer directly compiles information regarding other insiders designated by the Board of Directors as subject to Regulation O, their family members and related interests. The Bank's officers managing proposed extensions of credit to insiders are responsible for confirming that the proposed extensions of credit comply with the Bank's policies on insider transactions. The Regulation O Monitoring Officer will promptly notify our Corporate Secretary in the event the Regulation O Monitoring Officer detects an extension of credit to an insider that appears to violate the policy.

The Corporate Secretary follows procedures to help us determine at the end of each year whether any insider relationship or transaction has occurred that must be disclosed pursuant to the SEC's rules regarding Related Party Transactions or that might impair a non-employee director's independence under SEC rules or Nasdaq listing rules. These procedures include annual director and executive officer questionnaires, a survey of client databases of the Company and its subsidiaries, as well as a review of other records, including accounts payable, payroll and real estate transaction records. The Corporate Secretary reports any insider transactions so discovered to the Audit Committee for review, approval or ratification and reports other matters that would disqualify a non-employee director from meeting Nasdaq or SEC independence requirements to the Board.

To further raise awareness regarding, and to ensure the proper handling of, insider transactions, we have adopted various codes of conduct, including the Code of Business Ethics for Officers and Associates, the Code of Ethics for Financial Officers, and the Code of Ethics for Directors. These codes, which are available on the Governance Documents page of the Investor Relations website at investors.hancockwhitney.com, promote the ethical handling of actual or apparent conflicts of interest between personal and professional relationships, and encourage covered persons to seek advice to avoid conflicts of interest. Associates are also prohibited from handling any client relationship involving themselves, their relatives or affiliated businesses. Our Audit Committee is responsible for applying and interpreting the codes pertaining to senior financial officers, executive officers and directors, and shall report any violations to the Board for further action.

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**INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM**<br>

Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures

The Company's Audit Committee selected PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (PwC) as the Company's independent registered public accounting firm to audit the consolidated financial statements of the Company and its subsidiaries for 2025. As part of its role in overseeing the independent registered public accounting firm, the Audit Committee has adopted policies and procedures to pre-approve all audit and permissible non-audit services performed by the independent registered public accounting firm. The policy requires that on an annual basis the Audit Committee pre-approve the general engagement of the independent registered public accounting firm to provide defined audit, audit-related and possible tax services within pre-approved fee levels. Unless otherwise provided, such pre-approvals shall remain in effect for 12 months. The Audit Committee may revise the list of generally pre-approved services from time to time. The Audit Committee may also grant general pre-approval for other permissible non-audit services classified as all other services, provided that such services would not impair the independent registered public accounting firm's independence. Pre-approval may be granted by action of the full Audit Committee or, in the absence of such action, the Audit Committee Chair or the Audit Committee Chair's designee may pre-approve individual engagements up to a limit of $100,000. Any pre-approval granted by less than the full Audit Committee must be reported to the full Audit Committee at its next scheduled meeting. The Audit Committee will consult the SEC's rules and relevant guidance in applying this policy. During 2025, the Audit Committee pre-approved all services provided by PwC.

Fees and Related Disclosures for Accounting Services

The Audit Committee pre-approved all professional services provided by PwC and the related fees in 2025 and 2024. The following table discloses the fees for professional services provided by PwC in each of the last two fiscal years to the Company and its subsidiaries:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **2025** | **2024** |
| Audit Fees<sup>(1)</sup> | $2414000 | $2169000 |
| Audit-Related Fees <sup>(2)</sup> | 62000 | 61000 |
| Tax Fees <sup>(3)</sup> | - | - |
| All Other Fees <sup>(4)</sup> | 1000 | 1000 |
| Total | $2477000 | $2231000 |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)Audit fees are fees for professional services rendered in connection with the integrated audits of our annual consolidated financial statements, including the audit of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting, reviews of the quarterly consolidated financial statements included in Form 10-Q filings, and services that are normally provided by PwC in connection with subsidiary financial statement audits, attestation reports, and comfort letters and consents related to SEC filings.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2)Audit-related fees generally include fees for assurance and related services for compliance reporting.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3)No tax fees were incurred during 2025 or 2024.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4)All other fees were generally for accounting disclosure software licensing.

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**AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT**<br>

The Audit Committee assists the Board in monitoring the Company's accounting and financial reporting processes and has a key role in the oversight and supervision of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (PwC), the Company's independent registered public accounting firm. The Audit Committee's role includes sole authority to: (1) appoint or replace the Company's independent registered public accounting firm; (2) pre-approve all audit or permissible non-audit services that the Company's independent registered public accounting firm performs on behalf of the Company; and (3) approve compensation related to all auditing services and any permissible non-audit services. The Audit Committee monitors management's evaluation of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting and retains and monitors the activities of PwC. The Audit Committee also oversees the Company's procedures for the receipt, retention and treatment of complaints the Company receives regarding accounting, internal accounting controls or auditing matters. For greater detail regarding the functions and responsibilities of the Audit Committee, please refer to the Audit Committee Charter, which is available on the Company's Investor Relations website at investors.hancockwhitney.com under Governance – Committee Composition. The Audit Committee reviews and reassesses the adequacy of the Audit Committee charter on an annual basis. The Audit Committee is in compliance with the Audit Committee Charter.

Management has the primary responsibility for the financial statements and reporting processes, including the system of internal control over financial reporting. In fulfilling its oversight responsibilities for 2025, the Audit Committee reviewed and discussed with management the audited financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2025. Management has represented to the Audit Committee that the financial statements were prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP).

The Audit Committee reviewed the audited financial statements with the independent registered public accounting firm who is responsible for expressing an opinion on the conformity of those statements with GAAP and discussed with the independent registered public accounting firm the matters required to be communicated by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) and the SEC. The Audit Committee has also received the written disclosures and letter required by the 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 their independence and considered the compatibility of non-audit services with the independent registered public accounting firm's independence.

The Audit Committee discussed with the Company's internal auditors and the independent registered public accounting firm the overall scope and plans for their respective audits. The Audit Committee met with the internal auditors and the independent registered public accounting firm to discuss the results of audits, evaluations of the Company's system of internal control over financial reporting, and the overall quality of the Company's financial reporting. Both the internal auditors and the independent registered public accounting firm have unrestricted access to the Audit Committee.

In reliance on the reviews and discussions referred to above, the Audit Committee recommended to the Board that the audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2025 be included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for filing with the SEC. The Audit Committee has selected PwC as the Company's independent registered public accounting firm for 2026, subject to ratification by a majority of the shares represented at the annual meeting.

Audit Committee of the Board of Directors,

Christine L. Pickering, Chair

Sonya C. Little, Vice Chair

Moses H. Feagin

Jerry L. Levens

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**PROPOSAL NO. 3**<br>**RATIFICATION OF SELECTION OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM** <br>

The Audit Committee is directly responsible for the appointment, compensation, retention and oversight of the independent registered public accounting firm retained to audit the Company's consolidated financial statements and to attest to the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting. The Audit Committee has selected PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (PwC) as the Company's independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2026, and until their successors are selected. PwC has served continuously as the Company's auditor since 2009. PwC is a registered public accounting firm with the PCAOB, as required by the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and the rules of the PCAOB.

The Audit Committee recognizes the importance of maintaining the independence of the Company's independent auditor, both in fact and appearance. In order to ensure continuing auditor independence, the Audit Committee periodically considers whether there should be a regular rotation of the independent auditor. In addition, the Audit Committee recognizes that restrictions exist as to the hiring of any current or former partner, principal, shareholder or professional employee of its independent auditor and has reasonable measures in place to ensure any such potential candidates are reviewed prior to hiring for compliance with such restrictions. The Audit Committee also requires the lead PwC partner assigned to the Company's audit to be rotated at least every five years. The Audit Committee and its chairperson are directly involved in the selection of the new lead partner.

Each year, the Audit Committee evaluates the qualifications, performance and independence of the Company's independent auditor and determines whether to re-engage the current independent auditor for the following year. In doing so, the Audit Committee considers, among other things: (i) external data relating to audit quality and performance, including recent PCAOB reports on PwC and its peer firms; (ii) PwC's tenure as our independent auditor and its familiarity with our operations and business, accounting policies and practices and internal control over financial reporting; (iii) the quality and efficiency of the services provided by the auditors, the auditors' capabilities and expertise; (iv) whether the firm or any of its partners has any direct or any material indirect financial interest in the securities of the Company or any of its subsidiaries, except as auditors and consultants on accounting procedures and tax matters; and (v) PwC's independence. Based on this evaluation, the members of the Audit Committee and the Company's Board believe that the continued retention of PwC in 2026 is in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders.

The Board anticipates that representatives of PwC will be in attendance at the annual meeting and will be available to respond to questions.

Although not required to do so, the Company's Board has chosen to submit its selection of PwC for ratification by the Company's shareholders. It is the intention of the persons named in the proxy to vote such proxy FOR the ratification of this selection. If this proposal does not pass, the Audit Committee will reconsider the selection. The proposal will be ratified if the votes cast favoring the appointment exceed the votes cast opposing it. Even if the selection is ratified, the Audit Committee, in its discretion, may select a different independent registered public accounting firm at any time during the year if it determines that such a change would be in the best interests of the Company and our shareholders.

**THE BOARD UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS A VOTE "FOR" THE RATIFICATION OF THE** 

**SELECTION OF PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS LLP AS OUR INDEPENDENT REGISTERED**

**PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM FOR 2026.**

**SHAREHOLDER COMMUNICATIONS**<br>

The Board provides a process for shareholders to send communications to the Board or to individual directors. Information regarding this process is set out in the Corporate Governance Guidelines, which are available to shareholders on the Governance Documents page of the Investor Relations section of our website at investors.hancockwhitney.com.

**OTHER MATTERS**<br>

We do not know of any matters to be presented at our 2026 annual meeting other than those set forth in the accompanying notice. However, if any other matters properly come before the annual meeting or any adjournments or postponements thereof, the proxy holders will vote or abstain from voting thereon in accordance with their best judgment.

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**SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS FOR THE 2027 ANNUAL MEETING**<br>

<u>SEC Rule 14a-8</u> If you are a shareholder who would like us to include your proposal in our notice of the 2027 annual meeting and related proxy materials, you must follow SEC Rule 14a-8. In submitting your proposal, our Corporate Secretary must receive your proposal, in writing, at our principal executive offices, no later than November 17, 2026. If you do not follow Rule 14a-8, we will not consider your proposal for inclusion in next year's proxy statement.

<u>Advance notice procedures</u> Under our Bylaws, a shareholder who wishes to nominate an individual for election to the Board of Directors directly at an annual meeting, or to propose any business to be considered at an annual meeting, must deliver advance notice of such nomination or business to the Company. The shareholder must be a shareholder as of the date the notice is delivered and at the time of the annual meeting and must be entitled to vote at the meeting. The notice must be in writing and contain the information specified in our Bylaws for a director nomination or other business as well as the information required by Rule 14a-19 under the Exchange Act, if applicable. Director nominations must also include the related questionnaire and agreement specified in our Bylaws. If you would like to receive a printed copy of our Bylaws at no cost you may request these by contacting Ms. Juanita P. Kuhner, Corporate Secretary, Hancock Whitney Corporation, Hancock Whitney Plaza, 2510 14th Street, Gulfport, MS 39501 or at P.O. Box 4019, Gulfport, MS 39502.

Based on this year's annual meeting date, to be timely, the written notice must be delivered not earlier than December 30, 2026 (the 120th day prior to the first anniversary of this year's annual meeting) and not later than January 29, 2027 (the 90th day prior to the first anniversary of this year's annual meeting) to the Corporate Secretary at our principal executive offices by mail or overnight delivery service.

These advance notice procedures are separate from the procedures you must follow to submit a director nominee for consideration by the Corporate Governance Committee for recommendation to the Board for election as described under *Board of Directors and Corporate Governance — Board Committees — Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee – Identification of New Directors* and from the SEC's requirements that a shareholder must meet in order to have a shareholder proposal included in our proxy statement pursuant to SEC Rule 14a-8 referred to above.

The proxies we appoint for the 2026 annual meeting may exercise their discretionary authority to vote on any shareholder proposal timely received and presented at the meeting. Our proxy statement must advise shareholders of the proposal and how our proxies intend to vote. A shareholder may mail a separate proxy statement to our shareholders, and satisfy certain other requirements, to remove discretionary voting authority from our proxies.

At the annual meeting, the Chairperson or other officer presiding will determine whether any nomination or other business proposed to be brought before the annual meeting was made or proposed in accordance with our Bylaws and shall have the authority to declare that a defective proposal or nomination be disregarded.

Please direct any questions about the requirements or notices in this section by writing to Ms. Juanita P. Kuhner, Corporate Secretary, Hancock Whitney Corporation, Hancock Whitney Plaza, 2510 14th Street, Gulfport, MS 39501 or at P.O. Box 4019, Gulfport, MS 39502.

By Order of the Board of Directors.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| ![img20590551_24.jpg](img20590551_24.jpg) | ![img20590551_25.jpg](img20590551_25.jpg) |
| Jerry L. Levens | John M. Hairston |
| Chairman of the Board | President and CEO |
| Dated: March 17, 2026 |  |

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**APPENDIX A:**<br>**RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES**<br>

Adjusted Pre-Provision Net Revenue, Adjusted Earnings and Earnings per diluted share (Adjusted EPS), Adjusted Revenue, Adjusted Noninterest Expense, and Efficiency Ratio are non-GAAP financial measures that exclude certain income or expense items highlighted as supplemental disclosures. Supplemental disclosure items are certain items that are outside of our principal business and/or those that are not indicative of forward-looking trends. Adjusted Pre-Provision Net Revenue and Adjusted Revenue are also presented on a taxable equivalent (te) basis to adjust for the tax-favored status of net interest income from certain loans and investments using the statutory federal tax rate; a preferred industry method that enhances comparability of income arising from taxable and tax-free sources. Adjusted Pre-Provision Net Revenue is defined as net income, plus provision for credit loss, plus income tax expense, plus taxable equivalent adjustment, net of supplemental disclosure items, if applicable. Adjusted Earnings are defined as net income excluding impact of the supplemental disclosure items net of income tax using the statutory federal tax rate, if applicable. Adjusted Earnings per Share is defined as adjusted earnings expressed as an amount available to each common shareholder on a diluted basis. We define Adjusted Revenue as net interest income (te) and noninterest income less supplemental disclosure items. We define Adjusted Noninterest Expense as noninterest expense less supplemental disclosure items. We define our Efficiency Ratio as noninterest expense to total net interest income (te) and noninterest income, excluding amortization of purchased intangibles and supplemental disclosure items, if applicable. Management believes these are useful financial measures because they enable investors and others to gain a better understanding of the Company's performance period over period, as well as measure management's success in executing its strategic initiatives. Adjusted pre-provision net revenue is also a useful financial measure to assess the Company's ability to generate capital to cover credit losses through a credit cycle.

A reconciliation of these measures to GAAP measures is presented in the tables below:

Table 1. Adjusted and Pre-Provision Net Revenue (Adjusted Leverage) – Years Ended December 31, 2025 and 2024

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | Years Ended December 31, | Years Ended December 31, |
| *(In thousands)* | 2025 | 2024 |
| Net Income (GAAP) | $486073 | $460815 |
| Provision for credit loss | 51183 | 52167 |
| Income tax expense | 126322 | 113158 |
| Pre-provision net revenue | 663578 | 626140 |
| Taxable equivalent adjustment | 10378 | 11086 |
| Pre-provision net revenue (te) | 673956 | 637226 |
| Supplemental disclosure items: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sabal Trust Company acquisition expense | 5911 | ― |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Revision to the FDIC special assessment | ― | 3800 |
| Adjusted pre-provision net revenue (te) | $679867 | $641026 |

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Table 2. Adjusted Earnings and Adjusted Earnings per diluted share – Years Ended December 31, 2025 and 2024

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| *(In thousands, except per share)* | Earnings | EPS |
| Year Ended December 31, 2025 |  |  |
| Net income | $486073 | $5.67 |
| Supplemental disclosure items, after tax | 4670 | 0.05 |
| Adjusted earnings and Adjusted EPS | $490743 | $5.72 |
| Year Ended December 31, 2024 |  |  |
| Net income | $460815 | $5.28 |
| Supplemental disclosure items, after tax | 3002 | 0.03 |
| Adjusted earnings and Adjusted EPS | $463817 | $5.31 |

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Table 3. Adjusted Revenue, Adjusted Noninterest Expense for Efficiency Ratio and Efficiency Ratio – Years Ended December 31, 2025 and 2024

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | Years Ended December 31, | Years Ended December 31, |
| *(In thousands)* | 2025 | 2024 |
| Net interest income | $1108772 | $1081921 |
| Noninterest income | 406447 | 364129 |
| Total GAAP revenue | 1515219 | 1446050 |
| Taxable equivalent adjustment | 10378 | 11086 |
| Total revenue (TE) | 1525597 | 1457136 |
| Adjusted revenue (TE) | $1525597 | $1457136 |
| GAAP Noninterest expense | $851641 | $819910 |
| Amortization of Intangibles | (9953) | (9413) |
| Adjustments from supplemental disclosures |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sabal Trust Company acquisition expense | (5911) | ― |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Revision to the FDIC special assessment | ― | (3800) |
| Adjusted noninterest expense for efficiency | $835777 | $806697 |
| Efficiency | 54.78% | 55.36% |

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**APPENDIX A:**

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![img20590551_26.jpg](img20590551_26.jpg)

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![img20590551_27.jpg](img20590551_27.jpg)

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